000404   Hegde Y R;Ammajamma R;Venugopal C K;Kulkarni M S;Hegde L (Agricultural Sciences Dep, , Dharwad-580 005, Email: hegdelax@gmail.com) : Management of wilt complex of Coleus forskohlii in Karnataka. Biomed 2009, 4(1), 44-7.

Coleus forskohlli (Wild) Briq. belonging to the family Lamiaceae is mainly cultivated for tuberous roots which contain 0.1 to 0.5% forskolin. The incidence of wilt complex is a major threat for coleus cultivation. Therefore, a field trial was undertaken in large scale at Saidapur farm, Department of Horticulture, Agriculture College, UAS, Dharwad, Karnataka. The results indicated that Carboxin @ 0.1 per cent recorded the least per cent wilt incidence (1.19%) and the highest yield (44.29 Q/ha). The next best treatment was combined application of FYM @ 10 t/ha + T. harzianum @ 25 Kg/ha.

1 table, 5 ref

000403   Das M C;Kumaria S;Tandon P (Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, Botany Dep, North-Eastern Hill Univ, Shillong-788 022, Email: sumankhatrikumaria@hotmail.com) : In vitro propagation and conservation of Dendrobium lituiflorum Lindl through protocorm-like bodies. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2008, 17(2), 177-80.

Axillary buds obtained from 5-month-old in vitro growing plants of Dendrobium lituiflorum Lindl were cultured in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with different concentrations of 2,4-D. Fastest initiation (13.3 days) of protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) was observed in cultures containing MS medium supplemented with 0.5 mg l^-1 2,4-D. Maximum explant response of 83% was also observed in the same medium. PLBs obtained in MS medium containing 0.5 mg I^-1 2,4-D showed maximum regeneration potential of seedlings (19 explant^-1) when subcultured in MS medium. Well developed shoots and roots of the seedlings were obtained in the medium containing 0.5 mg l^-1 each of NAA and BAP, in combination. Encapsulated PLBs of D. lituiflorum could be stored at 8°C for 90 days with 80% regeneration. However, it was observed that regeneration potential of encapsulated PLBs reduced with further storage. Seventy seven per cent hardened plants survived and bloomed after 2.5 years of hardening.

^ssc1 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

000402   Bahuguna S N;Misra Thapliyal S;Upadhyay M K; Bahuguna P (Zoology and Biotechnology Dep, H.N.B. Garhwal Univ, Srinagar, Garhwal-246 174) : Karyotypic study in three fishes of family siluridae from river Alakananda. J Envir Biosci 2008, 22(2), 143-52.

Chromosomal study of three fishes Glyptothorax pectinopterus (McClelland), Glyptothorax madraspatnum (Day) and Pseudechenesis sulcatus (McClelland) of family Siluridae were undertaken for study. The chromosomal number of Glyptothorax pectinopterus (McClelland) was 2n=50 and Karyotype 24m+16sm+12t with Fundamental Arm number (FN) 92, Glyptothorax madraspatnum (Day) 2n=50 with karyotypic formula 22m+20sm+10t and Fundamental Arm number (FN) 94 and Pseudechenesis sulcatus (McClelland) 2n=50 chromosomes with chromosome formula 10m+14sm+28tand Fundamental Arm number (FN) 76.

4 illus, 19 ref

000401   Arunasri R;Sulochana M B (Post Graduate Studies and Research in Biotechnology Dep, Gulbarga Univ, Gulbarga-585 106, Email: arunachinni63@yahoo.co.in) : Standardization of cultural conditions for the production of lipase by Pseudomonas sp.. Bioscan 2009, 4(1), 135-7.

Lipases are hydrolytic enzymes, which are widely distributed in nature, which catalyse the hydrolysis of the ester linkage of long chain acylglycerols at the oil-water interface. Pseudomonas sp. designated as RAS-4 producing lipase was isolated from local oil mills. Optimum cultural conditions were standardized with various carbon and nitrogen sources and metal salts at (1% w/v). Olive oil was found to be the most suitable carbon source, yeast extract as best nitrogen source and calcium chloride as the best metal salt was found to stimulate the maximum production of lipase of 12 U/mL by Pseudomonas sp RAS-4.

3 illus, 22 ref

023933   Thara S;Kingsley S;Revathi N (Zoology Dep, Sri Vasavi College, Erode-638 316) : Effect of neem extracts on the bhendi pest, Earias vittella Fab. (Lepidoptera: noctuidae). J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 93-4.

Bioefficacy of neem oil at 0.5, 1.0 and 2%, neem cake extract at 1.0, 2.0 and 5.0% along with endosulfan at 0.05% concentrations were evaluated on the fourth instar larvae of Earias vittella. It was found that neem oil at 2.0% had higher larval mortality. Larva! mortality increased with the increase in the concentration of test solutions.

1 table, 16 ref

023932   Sobhana K S;George K C;Venkat Ravi G;Ittoop G;Paulraj R (Marine Biotechnology Div, Central Marine Fisheries Research Institte, Kochi-682 018, Email: sobhana_pradeep@yahoo.co.in) : Cell culture system developed from heart tissue of the greasy grouper, Epinephelus tauvina (Forsskal 1775) by enzymatic dissociation. Indian J Fish 2008, 55(3), 251-6.

Heart tissue samples aseptically excised from healthy juveniles of the grouper, Epinephelus tauvina were subjected to enzymatic dissociation using 0.25 % trypsin solution, under aseptic conditions. The resultant cells were suspended in Leibovitz' L-15 medium supplemented with 20 % fetal bovine serum. The cells were subsequently seeded into 25 cm² tissue culture flasks at a density of 10⁶ ml^-1 and incubated at 28±2°C. Cells showed spreading and attachment to the culture flasks within 24 hand formed monolayers comprising of epithelioid as well as fibroblast-like cells within 20 days. A confluent monolayer filling the flask surface comprising predominantly fibroblastic cells was formed within 30 to 35 days. The cell monolayer was harvested for passage by trypsinisation, which formed successful monolayers in subsequent subcultures.

8 illus, 26 ref

023931   Sital J S;Sandhu A S;Sharma S (Biochemistry Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : Biochemical changes associated with accelerated ageing of sunflowr (Helianthus annus L.) seeds. Indian J agric Biochem 2008, 21(1-2), 16-20.

Biochemical changes like contents of lipids, sugars and activities of certain enzymes in relation to seed viability were determined under artificial ageing and storage conditions in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) seeds. Seed viability declined with artificial ageing but higher viability was observed in seeds stored at refrigeration temperature than at room temperature. Contents of total reducing sugars, sucrose, lipids, phospholipids decreased with concomitant increase in free fatty acids content at 10 days compared to 5 days of artificial ageing and these changes were more when seeds were stored at room temperature compared to refrigeration temperature. Accordingly, catalase and peroxidase activities decreased whereas invertase and sucrose synthase activities increased with ageing.

3 tables, 14 ref

023930   Singh U K;Trivedi R N (NO, Zakir Hussain Institute & IIBM, Balley Road, Patna-800 001, Email: uksingh@uttamonline.com) : Water and wastewater technology and environmental biotechnology. Mendel int J 2008, 25(1-4), 57-60.

32 ref

023929   Shembekar V S;Dhotre M A;Shaikh R S;Kulkarni S S (Biotechnology Dep, Rajarshi Shahu College, Latur) : Isolation, purification and characterization of silk protein sericin from cocoon, Bombyx mori. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 125-7.

Silk fiber spinning Insects mainly belong to two families, viz., Saturnidae and Bombycidae. Bombyx mori belongs to Bombycidae produces a delicate twin thread of silk fibroin, which is coated by a protective cover of sericin. The Isolation, purification arid characterization of sericin, a component of cocoon shell was carried out. To initiate with the study the cocoon shells were dissolved in saturated aqueous lithium thiocyanate and fractionated by ethanol precipitation. The protein was purified by gel filtration chromatography. Amino acid analysis showed that the protein is enriched in glycine and serine. Results are discussed in full length.

3 illus, 22 ref

023928   Sarva Rao B;Swamy A V N;Rao K S (Chemical Engineering Dep, M.V.G.R. College of Engineering, Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh) : Production of L-lysine by free and immobilized cells. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(2), 229-34.

Studies production of L-lysine from glucose using free and also immobilized cells of Corynebacterium glutamicum Sp. in a stirred tank reactor, the authors have investigated the effect of various important parameters on fermentation time, pH and temperature and carbon source. The method employed for immobilization is calcium alginate cross linked with gluteraldehyde entrapment. For the determination of L-lysine acidic ninhydrin method of chinard has been used. Authors have observed that the optimum values of fermentation time, pH, temperature and glucose source were 96 hrs., 7.5, 30°C and 90 g/l respectively by immobilized cells whereas optimum values obtained in case of free cells were 72 hrs., 7.5, 30°C and 80 g/L.

6 illus, 21 ref

023927   Prasad S K;Qureshi T N;Patel B S;Junwal M (School of Studies in Zoology and Biotechnology, Vikram Univ, Ujjain-456 010, Email: drskprasad2006@rediffmail.com) : Effect of Psidium guajava bark extract in neurotransmitter induced hypergklycemic albino rats. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 45-7.

Investigation hypoglycemic activity was detected in the extract of bark of Psidium guajava (family-Myrtaceae), in neurotransmitters induced hyperglycemic albino rats. Experiment was set in three groups of 6 male animals each. Group I received injection of normal saline (0.1 ml) twice a day. Group II and III (experimental groups) received daily injections of 5-HTPand L-DOPA (50 mg/kg body weight) in 0.1 ml normal saline at the interval of 12 hr for 10 days. Simultaneously, group III received aqueous extract of Psidlum guajava bark daily (1 gm/kg body weight) orally. Results showed that increased level of blood glucose (hyperglycemia) in neurotransmitter treated animal were significantly lowered (hypoglycemia) by the oral administration of Psidium guajava bark extract.

2 illus, 1 ref

023926   Pinto L S;Nagano C S;Oliveira T M;Moura T R; Sampaio A H;Debray H;Pinto V P;Dellagostin O A;Cavada B S (Centro de Biotechnologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitario, s/n<, Email: dmpluc@ufpel.edu.br) : Purification and molecular cloning of a new galactose-specific lectin from Bauhinia variegata seeds. J Biosci, Bangalore 2008, 33(3), 355-63.

A new galactose-specific lectin was purified from seeds of a Caesalpinoideae plant, Bauhinia variegata, by affinity chromatography on lactose-agarose. Protein extracts haemagglutinated rabbit and human erythrocytes (native and treated with proteolytic enzymes), showing preference for rabbit blood treated with papain and trypsin. Among various carbohydrates tested, the lectin was best inhibited by D-galactose and its derivatives, especially lactose. SDS-PAGE showed that the lectin, named BVL, has a pattern similar to other lectins isolated from the same genus, Bauhinia purpurea agglutinin (BPA). The molecular mass of BVL subunit is 32 871 Da, determined by MALDI-TOF spectrometry. DNA extracted from B. variegata young leaves and primers designed according to the B. purpurea lectin were used to generate specific fragments which were cloned and sequenced, revealing two distinct isoforms. The bvl gene sequence comprised an open reading frame of 876 base pairs which encodes a protein of 291 amino acids. The protein carried a putative signal peptide. The mature protein was predicted to have 263 amino acid residues and 28 963 Da in size.

5 illus, 2 tables, 46 ref

023925   Patole S S;Mahajan R T (Zoology Dep, V.V. M's. S.G. Patil Arts, Science and Commerce College, Sakri Dist- Dhule-424 304) : Impact of plant powders as green gram seed protectants: nutritional quality assessment. Indian J agric Biochem 2008, 21(1-2), 27-30.

Green gram (Vigna radiata L) seeds treated with some indigenous plant powders as seed protectants were stored for a period of 360 days. Amongst the plant powders, Azadirachta indica A. Juss (neem) leaves powder acted as best protectant throughout the period of storage. Vitex nigundo Linn (nirgundi) and Sphaeranthus indicus Linn (gorakhmundi) were the next best plants while Adhatoda vasica Nees (adulsa), Annona squamosa Linn (sitaphal) and Pongamia glabra Linn (karanj) leaves provided minimum protection. During storage, total carbohydrates (8.34% to 35.37%) and lipids (13% to 100%) contents were decreased whereas total proteins (2.51% to 30.54%) were increased. This variation was plant specific.

ref

023924   Pai Divya H;Vaidya V K (Microbiology Dep, Institute of Science, 15, Madame Cama Road, Mumbai-400 032) : Production of Laccase by Trametes Versicolor and its application. J microbial Wld 2008, 10(2), 131-40.

An attempt was made to increase the yield of laccase by Trametes versicolor in three media viz. synthetic medium devised by Cavallazzi et al., potato dextrose broth (PDB) and malt extract broth (MEB) in presence of copper sulphate. Highest laccase production was seen in PDB supplemented with 0.4 μg/ml copper sulphate (ll.33±0.03 IU/ml). Laccase activity studied over a period of 25 days showed highest activity (16.16 IU/ml) on the 18^th day. Molecular weight determination by SDS PAGE of the semipurified laccase yielded a single band corresponding to a molecular weight of approximately 50 kDa. The applications of immobilized laccase in phenol degradation and decolourization of crystal violet revealed its potential in pollution control.

5 illus, 26 ref

023923   Ozcan M M;Kasik G;Ozturk C (Food Engineering Dep, Faculty of Agriculture, Selcuk Univ, 42031 Konya, Turkey, Email: mozcan@selcuk.edu.tr) : Effect of essential oils of some plants used as herb on the growth of Agaricus bisporus (Lange) Sing.. J essential Oil Bearing Pl 2008, 11(5), 523-9.

Essential oils at the concentration of 5 μl, 15 μl and 25 μ1 of Myrtus communis L., Laurus nobilis L., Echinophora tenuifolia L., Thymbra spicata L. and Satureja hortensis L., which grow wild in Turkey were prepared and investigated for growth of Agaricus bisporus in culture media. The results showed that 25 μl concentration of essential oils showed an inhibitory effect on mycelial growth. Other concentrations of oils partly inhibited the growth of A. bisporus. The mycelial growth of all samples treated had slow and different according to control group. It was observed a slow growth in sample with thyme (black), while myrtle and thyme (savory) oils exhibited fungisit effect against A. bisporus, others had fungistatic effect.

4 illus, 1 table, 34 ref

023922   Mishra P O;Dhawan V L;Yamgar R S;Gadre A G; Dongre P M (Chemistry Research Laboratory, Patkar College, Goregaon(W), Mumbai-62, Email: rsy_chem@rediffmail.com) : Nanoparticles: preparation methods and their application in bionanotechnology. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 1-5.

Nanomaterials are at the leading edge of the rapidly developing field of nanotechnology.Research in the area of nanoscience and technology has taken a big leap. Their unique size-dependent properties make these materials superior and indispensable in many areas of human activity. The review gives an impression of the preparation methods involved in the bottom-up approach. This brief review tries to summaries the preparation methods of nanoparticles and their application in the field of bionanotechnology.

6 ref

023921   Marathe M V;Saha M (Botay Dep, B.N. Bandodkar College, Thane-400 601, Email: m_saha1@sify.com) : Phytoremediation of heavy metals from industrial effluents by free and immobilized plant biomass. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 84-6.

Plants can be exploited for phytoremediation by utilizing their potential for metal removal. This leads to a cost effective and environment friendly technology. Plants such as Cynodon dactylon, Eichhornia cressipes, Catharanthus roseus, Spinacia oleracea and Amaranthus tricolor in free (dried powder) and imniobiiized form (dried powder encapsulated in alginate beads) were used to elucidate their phytoremediation potential. Iron, Zinc and Chromium were selected for the metal removal arid uptake studies. Immobilized biomass in both column and contact experiments showed greater potential for metal removal and uptake respectively.

5 illus, 9 ref

023920   Kulkarni R Y;Dev D V (Botany Dep, Yogeshwari Mahavidyalaya, Ambajogai, Maharashtra) : Role of Gliricidia maculata H. B. and K. for biomass productivity under varying environmental conditions. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(1), 53-8.

The experts in rural areas, opine that villagers, if asked their choice, the poorest and weakest section of the society would opt for forest; even the landless agricultural labour would give preference to convert wasteland areas into a productive ecosystem. The untimely rains, periodical droughts has affected grazing and added it, the exploitative and use resulting in denudation of ecosystem, leading to desertification a tragic consequence for the people living in dry areas. Thus over-utilization of [and is a serious problem not only in developing nations but also in the industrialized countries. The experimental trials have been directed to find out the "ways and means" to convernt wasteland as source of biomass production of a good quality thereby, conforming the plant species x wasteland culturing are inseperable from each other.

3 tables, 8 ref

023919   Kharat K R;Mhaske R S;Kharat A;Jamdhade V M; Hardikar B P (Biotechnology Dep, Deogiri College, Aurangabad-431 001, Email: biotech@deogiricollege.org) : Antimicrobial and cytotoxic activity of Streptomyces sp from lonar lake. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 48-50.

Antibacterial producing substances from Actinomycetes were isolated from marine environment of Lonar Lake and characterized. Of the 10 isolates, 04 failed to producf any antibacterial substances, however of the 04 two were found to produce antibacterial substances against E, coli a gram negative pathogen. Metabolite in the extract of broth of 48 hrs grown Streptornyces spp. culture no. 2 proved to be Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic against Human lung carcinoma cell A549.

5 illus, 19 ref

023918   Goswami-Giri A S;Tayade S V (Chemistry Dep, B.N. Bandodkar College of Science, Chedani Bunder Road, Thane (W)-400 601, Email: anitagoswami@yahoo.com) : Novel technique of alkaloids extraction from Solanum xanthocarpum leaves. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 128-30.

Extraction of alkaloids was earned out by Solvent, Soxhlet and by using new technique from Solatium Xanthocarpum leaves. The new technique is rapid, more efficient and consumes Jess solvent as compares to the existing methods. Extraction of alkaloids from Solatium Xanthocarpum leaves consist of the use of sonicated solution containing a surfactant as a extracting agent. Highest yield of alkaloid obtained at 2.5 hrs when 0.3% (m/v) surfactant used at room temperature.

2 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

023917   Gajera H P;Bambharolia R M;Patel S V;Mandavia M K;Patel D V;Golakiya B A (Biochemistry Dep, College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh-362 001) : Role of extra cellular enzymes from Trichoderma spp. during their In vitro antagonism with Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri. Indian J agric Biochem 2008, 21(1-2), 8-15.

Biocontrol agents - Trichoderma which in vitro inhibit the growth of fungal pathogen F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceri on potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium, were evaluated for their potential to produce various extra cellular enzymes at 8 days after inoculation (DAI). The highest extra cellular activities of cellulase and polygalacturonase (PG) were seen in the culture medium of F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceri compared to culture media of sole Trichoderma agents and antagonism treatments. Among the four biocontrol agents, T. viride showed highest in vitro per cent inhibition of growth of fungal pathogen F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceri on PDA medium. This percent inhibition was positively correlated with extra cellular specific activities of peroxidase, protease, chitinase and β-1,3-glucanase. The possible involvements of these enzymes in the antagonistic interaction between Trichoderma spp. and F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceri is discussed. T. viride showed highest extra cellular production of pathogenesis related enzymes - chitinase, β-1,3-glucanase and protease in the culture medium during antagonism followed by T. viride 60, T. harzianum, T. Virens. This improvement in extra cellular enzyme production during fungal pathogen growth inhibition by T. viride suggests that it is a suitable strain to be used in biological control of plant pathogen F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceri.

6 illus, 40 ref

023916   Dayanand S A;Lingappa K (Microbiology Dep, Gulbarga University, Gulbarga-585 106) : Screening of Streptomyces species for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles. J microbial Wld 2008, 10(2), 160-6.

Nanoparticles are at the leading edge of rapidly developing field of nanobiotechnology. The stanªdardization of biological processes for the synthesis of nanoparticles is challenging issue to microbioloªgists. In the present study, two novel and other four species of Streptomyces were screened for the syntheªsis of silver nanoparticles. The production of biomass, visual observations for color development and UV-vis spectra for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles has been employed as important criteria in the process of screening. Streptomyces gulbargensis and Streptomyces tritolerans are proved to be the most efficient strains for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles.

6 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

023915   Bholkar A S;Vaidya V K (Microbiology Dep, Institute of Science, 15, Madame Cama Road, Mumbai-400 032, Email: archana.bholkar@gmail.com) : Optimization of medium for cellulase production by Sporotrichum pulverulentum NCIM 1106. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 40-5.

Cellulases are industrially important enzymes which have gained interest due to their applications in various industries. Invesiigation was an attempt to optimize the cellulase production in the synthetic medium by Ghosh and Kundu using Sporotrichurn pulverulentum NCIM 1106. Various parameters studied included sources of carbon and nitrogen, as well as surfactants. Amongst the lignocellulosic substrates evaluated, wheat bran proved to enhance the ceilulase production compared to the synthetic medium containing carboxy methyl cellulose. Addition of 0.1% yeast extract and a surfactant like Triton X-100 resulted in further rincrease in the production of cellulase.

3 tables, 21 ref

023914   Ankit Kumar;Singh N;Verma O P (NO, College of Biotechnology and Allied Sciences, A.A.I.D.U., Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Citric acid production using fermentation technology. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(1), 59-62.

Describes the production of citric -acid from fungal strain of Aspergillus niger ATCC 9142, using various sources like cane molasses, beet molasses, sweet potato and grape sugar by employing submerged and surface fermentation. The fermentation process has been carried out at pH 5.0 and temperature 30°C. The recovery of citric acid from fermented broth is generally performed through three procedures - precipitation, extraction and adsorption (mainly using ion-exchange resins). The main aim of the project is to achieve a cost reduction in citric acid production by using less expensive substrates.

3 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

022758   Swarnkar C P;Singh D;Khan F A;Vaithiyanathan S (Animal Health Div, Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar-304 501) : Effect of tanniferous plant (Prosopis cineraria) on Haemonchus contortus infection in sheep. Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(9), 953-5.

In-vitro egg hatch assay demonstrated ovicidal property CT with ED₅₀ value to the tune of 2.20 mg CT/ml. On in-iv'm study in sheep experimentally infected with H. contortus, llicie was marked reduction in FEC and larval development rale and higher Hb and PCV values in animals fed with CT. It was inferred that incorporation of CT to diet of sheep would help in reducing the pasture contamination with resultant lower reinfection rate for effective management of gastrointestinal parasitism in ruminants in organic farming system.

1 table, 24 ref

022757   Srihari T;Selvam J P;Aranganathan S; Ramakrishna D S;Nalini N (Biochemistry and Biotechnology Dep, Faclty of Science, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Escalation of circulatory antioxidants by oregano (Origanum vulgare L.) during 1,2-dimethylhydrazine induced experimental colon carcinogenesis. J Cell Tissue Res 2008, 8(2), 1405-10.

Investigated the modulatory effect of oregano (a medicinal herb) on circulatory lipid peroxidation (LPO) and antioxidant status during 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) induced colon carcinogenesis in male albino wistar rats. Enhanced LPO in the circulation of tumour bearing animals was accompanied by a significant decrease in the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GR). Oregano supplementation at a dose of 40 mg/kg body weights has a modulatory role on circulatory LPO and antioxidant profile in colon cancer bearing rats. Reports that oregano exerts its chemoprevention effect by decreasing circulatory LPO and enhancing antioxidant levels.

2 illus, 4 tables, 20 ref

022756   Sharma D R (Horticulture Dep, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: drajsharma@rediffmail.com) : Population dynamics in relation to abiotic factors and management of citrus psylla in Punjab. Indian J Hort 2008, 65(4), 417-22.

Studies on population dynamics revealed that adult population of Diaphorina citri Kuwayana was very low during December and January but with the increase in temperature in the end of February, the activity of adults increased. At the same time a low population of nymphs was also recorded and thereafter, the population of both adults and nymphs increased but significant increase in nymphal population was observed during March (41-47 nymphs). A decrease in nymphal population was recorded during May-June but attained the maximum infestation during July when the adult population was 92-111/25 leaves. The nymphal population also remained quite high during August, when the weather factors, viz. minimum, maximum, mean temperature (°C), relative humidity (%), sunshine (hours) and rainfall (mm), respectively ranged from 26.0-27.2, 33.5-34.9, 30.4°C, 74-84 percent, 6.3 to 9.3 hours and 24.5 to 297.7 mm. Analysis of correlation between population (mixed, nymphs and adults) of citrus psylla and different abiotic factors revealed that minimum, maximum and mean temperatures, relative humidity and vapour pressure had a positive relation with both nymphal and adult population whereas wind velocity had very low impact on adults. The data on bio-efficacy of different insecticides indicated that except dimethoate (0.05%) with 69.7 percent nymphal mortality after 12 days of spray all other insecticides namely dimethoate (0.075%), oxydemeton methyl (0.075%), imidacloprid (0.008%), chlorpyriphos (0.1%), triazophos (0.1%), thiamethoxam (0.008%) and quinalphos (0.075%) had significantly high (91-100%) nymphal reduction of D. citri compared to either 3 or 7 days data.

2 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

022755   Shah M;Chandelia Y;Parekh T;Patel V H (Food Biotechnology Lab, P.G. Home Science Dep, Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar-388 120, Email: patelvh2004@yahoo.co.in) : Assessment of potential probiotic properties of Lactobacilli strains. J Cell Tissue Res 2008, 8(2), 1485-89.

Probiotic properties (acid resistance, bile resistance antimicrobial activity and antibiotic resistance) of five strains of lactic acid bacteria and one isolated strain from home prepared curd were determined. From the results, it was concluded that L. paracasei showed maximum survival rate (41%) at 2.0 pH compared to other strains. L. acidophilus and isolated strains from home prepared curd showed maximum survival rate (87.15%) at 2% bile concentration. L. bulgaricus and isolated strains from home prepared curd showed maximum antimicrobial activity against E. coli and L. casei and isolated strain also showed maximum antibiotic resistance. In conclusion, Lactobacillus paracasei and SIFHPC possessed very good probiotic properties and hence, can be used as probiotic agents in development of probiotic/synbiotic food products.

3 tables, 19 ref

022754   Saraswati L;Sawargaonkar;Sawargaonkar S L; Sajeed Ali S;Shrinivas L;Sawargaonkar (Plant Biotechnology Dep, Yeshwant College of IT, Parbhani, Maharashtra) : Screening of siderophore producing bacteria from various habitat. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(2), 416-18.

Siderophore producing bacteria were isolated from different habitat, such as rhizospheric soil and alkaline soil. Out of 8 isolates 5 showed Siderophore production on Chromo azurol S (CAS) agar plate. Further the types of Siderophore are detected by (Csaky, 1948 and Arnow; 1937) assay. Estimation of Hydrozymate and chatcolate type of Siderophore revealed that out of five isolate a Pseudomonas species of alkaline soil produced high concentration of Siderophore as compared to other. To improve furtheryield of Siderophore the strain is grown on different medium and effect of incubation time was also studied. Maximum Siderophores were produced at 36 hours on succinate medium.

1 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

022753   Santhi T;Manonmani S;Ravi S (Chemistry Dep, Karpagam Univ, Coimbatore-641 021, Email: ravisubban@rediffmail.com) : Uptake of cationic dyes from aqueous solution by biosorption onto granular Muntingia calabura. E J Chem 2009, 6(3), 737-42.

A new, low cost, locally available biomaterial was tested for its ability to remove cationic dyes from aqueous solution. A granule prepared from a mixture of leafs, fruits and twigs of Muntingia calabura had been utilized as a sorbent for uptake of three cationic dyes, methylene blue (MB), methylene red (MR) and malachite green (MG). The effects of various experimental parameters (e.g., contact time, dye concentration, adsorbent dose and pH) were investigated and optimal experimental conditions were ascertained. Above the value of initial pH 6, three dyes studied could be removed effectively. The isothermal data fitted the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models for all three dyes sorption. The biosorption processes followed the pseudo-first order rate kinetics. The results in this study indicated that Muntingia calabura was an attractive candidate for removing cationic dyes from the dye wastewater.

3 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

022752   Santhi T;Manonmani S (Chemistry Dep, Karpagam Univ, Coimbatore-641 021, Email: ssnilasri@yahoo.co.in) : Uptake of cationic dyes from aqueous solution by biosorption using granulized Annona squmosa seed. E J Chem 2009, 6(4), 1260-6.

A new, low cost, locally available biomaterial was tested for its ability to remove cationic dyes from aqueous solution. A sample of granulized Annona squmosa seeds had been utilized as a sorbent for uptake of three cationic dyes, methylene blue (MB), methylene red (MR) and malachite green (MG). The effects of various experimental parameters (e.g., contact time, dye concentration, adsorbent dose and pH) were investigated and optimal experimental conditions were ascertained. Above the value of initial pH 5, three dyes studied could be removed effectively. The isothermal data fitted the Langmuir model in the case of MB sorption and the Freundlich model for all three dyes sorption. The biosorption processes followed the pseudo first order rate kinetics. The results in this study indicated that granulized Annona squmosa seed was an attractive candidate for removing cationic dyes from the dye wastewater.

5 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

022751   Sanandam M R (Biotechnology Engineering Dep, KIT's College, Kolhapur-416 234, Email: monicasands@yahoo.com) : Histopathological studies on rat liver exposure to textile environment. J Cell Tissue Res 2008, 8(2), 1443-8.

Occupational health hazards among people exposed to different organic and inorganic dusts have been known for many centuries. Industrialization resulted in a different kind of microenvironment with high dust, particulate matter concentration with microbial contamination, noise, vibrations heat etc. and other stressful work place situations. Literature reports indicate that Organic dust exposures cause severe diseases in various industrial and agricultural workers. It has been well established that exposure to cotton, hemp or flax also results in chest tightness, mill fever and byssinosis. Cotton textile industry constitutes the single largest industry employing lacs of workers, but the powerloom sector of this industry is operating with neglected working conditions and welfare facilities without any research or innovation of any kind. The experimental animal rat exposed to this working environment was found to show significant behavioural changes and the hypoxic states. The study indicated structural and functional alterations in rat liver like enlarged liver, histologic picture showed focal hypoxic necrosis, areas of regenerating hepatocytes, eosinophilic cytoplasmic changes, ground glass cytoplasm, multinucleated giant cells, hemosiderosis, increased number of kuffer cells and phagocytes, the central vein, bile ducts, hepatic arteries and sinusoids accumulated with non-homogenous fluid. Tissue proteins were decreased. Liver function tests showed significant alterations in bilirubin, SGOT, SGPT, alkaline phospatase enzymes, total serum proteins, albumin, globulins and A/G ratio. The total LDH estimated also showed significant alteration. The histopathologic observations and altered liver function tests indicated that hepatic tissue injury was caused by cotton dust and associated endotoxins and other working environmental stresses in textile environment, which act synergistically to produce toxic stress.

4 illus, 18 ref

022750   Saha D;Purkayastha G D;Saha A (Botany Dep, North Bengal Univ, Siliguri-734 013, Email: asahanbu@yahoo.co.in) : Degradation of mancozeb and thiophanate-methyl by bacteria isolated from tea-garden soil. Envir Ecol 2008, 26(4C), 2231-5.

Two bacterial strains, RMI and RRI capable of degrading the fungicides mancozeb and thiophanate-methyl respectively were isolated from soil of tea gardens where these are used in a regular manner. Physiological and biochemical characterization revealed that RMI an aerobic gram-positive coccus had a temperature and pH optima of 30 C and 6 respectively. RRI on the other hand grew best at 30 C and at pH 7 and was found to be aerobic grarrt-negative rods. The pH that supports maximum degradation for each isolate was studied through a series of degradation studies over a broad pH range. Results revealed that maximum degradation was obtained at pH 6 and 7 for RMI and RRI respectively. These isolates may be used to develop effective bioremediation system that would be applicable in contaminated tea garden soil.

5 illus, 20 ref

022749   Rao R S;Deshmukh Y D;Borkar P S;Khobragade C N (NO, School of Life Sciences, Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, Nanded-431 006) : Production of alkaline protease from Bacillus subtilis using rice bran. J Cell Tissue Res 2008, 8(2), 1347-50.

Protease producing bacteria were isolated from soil and identified as B. subtilis. Of the 42 isolates screened, isolate S-8 was identified as thermostable alkaline protease producer found to grow at pH and temperature ranges of 5.8 to 8.0 and temperature 50-65 °C respectively. The maximum protease production was found to be at 50°C and pH 9 with 2% inoculum in the medium containing 1% rice bran after 48 h of incubation. Beef extract, yeast extract, peptone, tryptone were good nitrogen sources, while casein, skim milk and lactose were suitable for enzyme production. The results showed that B. subtilis under study are good producer of extracellular protease at high temperature. The extracellular enzyme production and thermostable nature might be an indication that protease was useful at high elevated temperature in industrial applications.

4 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

022748   Prakash D P;Deepali B S;Asokan R;Ramachandra Y L;Shetti D L;Anand L;Hanur V S (Biotechnology Div, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore-560 089, Email: vageesh@iihr.ernet.in) : Effect of growth regulators on in vitro complete plant regeneration in brinjal. Indian J Hort 2008, 65(4), 371-6.

Effect of growth regulators on shoot morphogenesis in hypocotyl and cotyledonary leaf explants, shoot elongation and root induction has been studied. Hypocotyl explants showed callus initiation and direct regeneration response after 3-5 and 13-15 days of culture initiation, respectively. Cotyledonary leaf explants showed callus initiation and callus-mediated shoot regeneration response after 7-8 days and 3 weeks of culture initiation. Growth regulators did not affect callus initiation response but they markedly influenced regeneration response. Culture medium (full-strength MS salts, vitamins, 3% sucrose and 0.8% agar) containing 2 μM and 0.05 μM NAA induced highest shoot regeneration in hypocotyl explants (65.71%), whereas culture medium containing 10 μM BAP and 0.5 μM NAA induced highest 18.33% shoot regeneration in cotyledonary leaf explants. Either increase or decrease in BAP concentration than this resulted in reduction in shoot regeneration response. Addition of BAP to shoot elongation medium was found beneficial for shoot elongation and shoot regeneration medium was efficient in shoot elongation also. Addition of auxins in root induction medium has reduced number of days taken for root induction and increased in number of roots and root length. In hardening, 90-95% of rooted shoots survived and all the plantlets were morphologically normal.

3 illus, 1 table

022747   Pasupathi P;Saravanan G;Bakthavathsalam G (rppasupathi@gmail.com, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, K.G. Hospital and Post Graduate Medi, Coimbatore-641 018) : Effect of chronic smoking on erythrocyte lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in gastric carcinoma patients. J Cell Tissue Res 2008, 8(2), 1399-1403.

Study was conducted to determine the effects of chronic cigarette smoking on erythrocyte lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in gastric cancer patients. The study population (age-matched male subjects) consisted of 100 gastric cancer patients (nonsmokers n=50 and smokers n=50) and 100 healthy controls (nonsmokers n=50 and smokers n=50). The level of erythrocyte thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) was markedly increased in both the carcinoma groups when compared to control groups. Comparatively, the TBARS level was higher in healthy smokers than non-smoking carcinoma patients. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-treansferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH) and vitamin E were significantly decreased in gastric cancer patients (smokers) when compared with other groups. There was also notable statistical significance between smoking and nonsmoking carcinoma group patients. The study highlights the occurrence of lipid peroxidation and possible breakdown of antioxidant status in cigarette smoking, which may subsequently increase the possibility of initiation and progression of gastric cancer.

3 tables, 40 ref

022746   Niranjan M H;Sudarshana M S;Dharmendra;Girish S T (Plant Tissue Centre Lab, P.G. Dep of Botany, Mysore Univ, Manasagangothri) : Rescue of in vitro shoot in necrosis in Lagerstroemia indica L.. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(2), 622-3.

In vitro adventitious shoots of Lagerstroemia indica were regenerated from nodal segements on MS medium containing BA (1.0 mg l^-1). These shoots underwent necrosis when they attained 1-2 cm in length. Necrosis could be prevented by using certain additives such as calcium, sulphur, 2-(N-morpholino) ethane sulphonic acid or by using fructose. Fructose (20 mg I^-1) was found to be more suitable additive in controlling the necrosis.

1 illus, 15 ref

022745   Natarajan K;Rajendran A (Biotechnology Dep, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal-576 104, Email: biomatrix.kannan@gmail.com) : Effect of fermentation parameters on extra cellular tannase production by Lactobacillus plantarum MTCC 1407. E J Chem 2009, 6(4), 979-84.

Lactobacillus plantarum MTCC 1407 represents a valuable source of an economically attractive stable long-life tannase with potential for application in various industries. The effect of fermentation parameters such as pH, temperature and agitation speed on the growth of biomass and production of tannase using liquid medium were determined at the end of fermentation period. The optimum values of pH, reaction temperature and agitation speed for tannase activity were 6.0, 30 °C and 125 rpm respectively. The maximum tannase activity was found to be 9.29 U/mL.

5 illus, 10 ref

022744   Mala S;Vaitheeswaran M;Santhanakumar G (Advanced Zoology & Bio-Technology Dep, Govindammal Aditanar College for Women, Tiruchendur-628 215, Email: gacw_zoology@yahoo.co.in) : Mangroves - a bio-shield of the coastal zone to check the wrath of tsunami. Envir Ecol 2008, 26(4A), 1927-9.

India has about 7,500 km of coastline. Most of the coastal zones of Tamilnadu is characterized by the occurrence of green shelterin the form of mangroves, reefs, sea grasses but all these varieties are under threat. The Tsunami of 26 December, 2004 made an indelible mark in human history. The importance of mangroves as bio-shield of the coastal zone is enormous.

13 ref

022743   Maheshwari R (NO, , 53A/2, SPL Sriteertha Apartments, 4th Main, 17th Cross, Malleswaram, Bangalore-560 065, Email: ramesh.maheshwari01@gmail.com) : Science behind the biofuel controversy. Curr Sci 2008, 95(5), 594-602.

At the current rate of use the crude oil reserves of the world are predicted to deplete in about 40 years. Therefore, it has become necessary to find and devise methods of processing a renewable raw material for conversion into transportation fuel. Some countries are manufacturing ethanol from sugarcane or cereal grains and blending it with petrol to reduce crude oil imports. This entails diverting agriculturally productive land for the production of fuel. An alternative is to use inedible plant biomass as raw material. Although plant biomass is mostly cellulose, it is covered and occluded by hemicelluloses and lignin. This greatly limits the access of microbial cellulases required to depolymerize cellulose and release glucose for production of alcohol by yeast-mediated fermentation. A possible solution may be based on the reactions that take place in the rumen of herbivores. These animals have symbiotic bacteria which have multienzyme particles called cellu-losomes attached onto their surface. The cellulosomes tear down the ingested plant material into soluble compounds from which the host animal makes milk and meat. Genetic engineering techniques offer the possibility of enhancing the biodegradative action of cellulosomes by reconstituting cellulosomes with potent enzymes from different microbial species. Fast-growing species of grasses specifically grown on marginal land could provide ethanol feed stock for biorefineries.

7 illus, 49 ref

022742   Khan H;Faisal M;Anis M (Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh-202 002, Email: anism1@rediffmail.com) : Plant regeneration via somatic embryogenesis in callus culture of Solanum melongena. Phytomorphology 2008, 58(3-4), 153-7.

Efficient protocol has been developed for rapid mass propagation of Solanum melongena through indirect somatic embryogenesis from leaf-derived callus. Leaf segments were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with a-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), 6-benzyladenine (BA) and kinetin (Kn) for induction of callus. NAA and BAA were found to be more effective than Kn to induce embryogenic callus. The highest percentage (95%) of embryogenic callus and highest number (55.6 ± 1.15) of somatic embryos per responding callus were achieved on MS basal medium supplemented with 8.0 uM BA. The induction, maturation and germination of somatic embryos were achieved on the same medium. All regenerated plants with 80% survival rate were normal with respect to morphology and growth characteristics.

1 illus, 22 ref

022741   Karthikeyan A;Jayaprakash K (Biotechnology Dep, Alagappa Univ, Karaikudi-630 003) : Bioadsorption of heavy metal by a tropical fungi. J Ind Pollut Control 2008, 24(1), 79-81.

Soil Myrothecium verrucaria has been known for adsorbing metals present in effluent. The results of the present study demonstrate that M.verrucaria adsorb lead at neutral pH for 18 hrs exposure. The efficiency of the lead adsorption potential was estimated by Atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The non-viable biomass was utilized. The data was statistically significant. This would suggest that this fungal microbe under study may be an ideal microbe for the recovery of lead from industrial effluents.

3 tables, 7 ref

022740   Kalalinia F;Behravan J;Ramezani M;Hassanzadeh M K;Asadipour A (Biotechnology Laboratory, Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Research Center, Bu-Ali Research Inst, Mashhad, Iran, Email: behravanj@mums.ac.ir) : Chemical composition, moderate In vitro antibacterial and antifungal activity of the essential oil of Pistacia vera L. and it's major constituents. J essential Oil Bearing Pl 2008, 11(4), 376-83.

The composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil of Pistacia vera L., grown in Iran, was studied. The oil was obtained from the resin and analyzed by GC-MS. Twenty compounds, accounting for 99.5 % of the total components, were identified. The main constituents were α-pinene, β-pinene and α-thujene. The antimicrobial effects of the essential oil of Pistacia vera L. gum and its major constituents ((+)α-pinene, (-)α-pinene, (-)β-pinene, (-)α-thujene and α, β-thujene) were investigated. Antibacterial assays were performed using broth microdiiution assays to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against two Gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis) and three Gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiela pneumoniae). The antifungal activity against Candida albicam was determined by the agar dilution method. The essential oil of Pistacia vera L, gum exhibited strong inhibitory effects against Gram positive bacteria and C. albicans. Moreover, The results indicated that (-)β-pinene had the most inhibitory effects against Gram positive bacteria and C.. albicans while α, β-thujene was more active against Gram negative bacteria.

2 tables, 25 ref

022739   Jiang Z T;Li R;Wang Y (College of Biotechnology and Food Science, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Commerce, Tianjin 300134, People's Republic of China, Email: ztiang@yahoo.com) : Essential oil composition of Cinnamomum loureiroi grown in China extracted by supercritical fluid extraction. J essential Oil Bearing Pl 2008, 11(3), 267-70.

Essential oil of the bark of young branches of Cnnamomum loureiroi grown in China was isolated by supercritical fluid extraction (SFE). The chemical composition of the essential oil was examined by GC and GC-MS. Twenty components were identified, representing 94.67 % of the related oil, respectively. Major components are cinnamaldehyde (66.44 %), copaene (6.25 %), β-cadinene (4.11 %),calamenene (3.84%) and cadinadiene-4,9 (3.82%).

1 table, 13 ref

022738   Jasrai Y T;Dave A M;Verdia B (Botany Dep, Univ School of Sciences, Gujarat Univ, Ahmedabad-380 009, Email: yjasrai@yahoo.com) : Rapid clonal propagation and increase in biomass of an Indian pennywort, Centella asiatica L.. Phytomorphology 2008, 58(3-4), 145-51.

Reliable protocol for mass propagation of an elite clone for market need, and for conservation, of Centella asiatica through axillary bud proliferation has been achieved. Though budbreak was dependent on BA supply, the synergistic combination of 17.7 mM BA and 2.88 mlVf IAA in MS medium induced the maximum frequency (94%) of shoot formation as well as shoot number (8 shoots per node). Nodal segments harvested from the in v/Yro-derived axenic shoots when subcultured on the multiplication medium enabled continuous production of multiple shoots with same frequency. MS medium supplemented with reduced concentration of BA (4.4mM) with the same concentrations of IAA (2.88mM) was found most suitable for shoot elongation. Root induction was highest (98%) on agar based MS medium containing IAA (2.88uM) alone. Plantlets were transferred to pots containing mixture of farmyard manure, sand and soil (1:1:1), acclimatized in greenhouse and then transferred to the field. Their survival rate was 100% in greenhouse and 99.16% in the field. The established micropropagated plants were found to be identical to the mother plant with respect to growth characteristics but increase in biomass with reference to broad leaves and long roots. Further, in vzYro-raised plants, mother plants and market sample were subjected to qualitative analysis using TLC analysis. A reproducible in vitro propagation of Centella asiatica was established, which can be used as a stock of planting material of elite genotypes for large-scale cultivation.

1 illus, 4 tables

022737   Fazly Bazzaz B S;Azadbakht M;Sagheb Doust M (School of Pharmacy & Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad Univ of Medical Sciences (MUMS), Mashhad, I.R. Iran, Email: bsfazly@hotmail.com) : Antibacterial activity of essential oils of Iranian plants (Mazandaran province). J essential Oil Bearing Pl 2008, 11(4), 436-42.

Essential oils of 44 platits from north of Iran (Mazandaran province) were obtained by hydrodistillation. Antibacterial activity of oils was evaluated by macro-titer plate dilution method, using Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cerens. Among the tested essential oils, four of them, Juniperus sabina L. (Gupressaceae), Carum copticum L. (Apiaceae), Ferula gumosa Boiss. (Apiaceae) and Allium akaka Gmel. (Liliaceae), showed considerable antibacterial activity against at least three test bacteria. Both Gram-positive bacteria tested were the most susceptible to the effects of oils. P. aeruginosa was the least susceptible bacterium whereas the other bacteria were partially inhibited by some of the essential oils tested. Detailed results of antibacterial activities of essential oils are presented.

1 table, 29 ref

022736   Dakhore K K;Patel H R;Pandey V;Shekh A M (Agricultural Meteorology Dep, Anand Agricultural University, Anand-388 110) : Economic impact assessment using agro-advisory services in middle Gujarat agro climatic zone. J Agrometeorol 2008, 10(Pt 2), 541-4.

Impact of economics of AAS was assessed for tobacco and potato crop as both the crops are predominantly grown middle Agro-climatic zones of Gujarat. Detail economic assessment was based on pre fabricated feedback questionnaire to come arrive at significant inferences in terms of utility of Agro-Advisory Services. The results showed that nearly 18 per cent higher net return was obtained by AAS farmers as compared to Non-AAS farmers in tobacco crop which may be attributing to timely agricultural operations, timely input in recommended quantity and efficient soil moisture management and scientific plant protection majors in a need base manner during crop growing period as suggested in biweekly bulletins. AAS farmers benefited by timely application of top dressing of fertilizers and irrigation as suggested by AAB which might be the reason for higher yield of tobacco as compared to Non-AAS farmers. In case of potato crops farmers' net return increased to the tune of 12% as compared to Non-AAS farmers. The net monetary return of potato crop mainly depended on cost incurred towards the seed (quantity and quality). Besides seeds quality, quantity, seed treatment, time of planting, method of planting, size of planting material and depth of planting material were major factors which decided sprouting percentage and plant stand in the field. AAS farmers adopted optimum planting time of potato, while Non-AAS farmers were not adopted optimum planting time. Delay in planting caused yield reduction of Non-AAS farmers as compared to AAS farmers. Thus, by adopting weather based Agro-Advisory Bulletin AAS farmers had significantly reduced input cost and by this in a indirect way their net return increased significantly.

4 illus, 2 tables, 3 ref

022735   Bhutiyani M R;Kale V S;Pawar N J (Geology Dep, College of Military Engineering, Pune-411 031, Email: mahendra_bhutiyani@yahoo.co.in) : Changing streamflow patterns in the rivers of northwestern Himalaya implications of global warming in the 20th century. Curr Sci 2008, 95(5), 618-26.

Results of trend analyses of the discharge data of four rivers in northwestern Himalaya, namely Beas, Chenab, Ravi and Satluj, are presented here and the impact of climate change in the last century is discussed. In the case of Satluj river, studies indicate an episodic variation in discharge in all three seasons on a longer timescale of about 82 years (1922-2004). Statistically significant decrease in the average annual and monsoon discharge and insignificant increase in winter and spring discharge, despite increasing temperatures during all the three seasons can also be seen. Decreasing discharge during winter and monsoon seasons in the post-1990 period, despite rising temperatures and average monsoon precipitation strongly indicates decreasing contribution of glaciers to the discharge and their gradual disappearance. On a shorter timescale of the last four decades of the 20th century, barring the Beas river, which shows a significantly decreasing trend, the other three rivers have shown a statistically insignificant change (at 95% confidence level) in their average annual discharge. Annual peak flood discharges show significant increasing trends in the Satluj and Chenab basins, significant decreasing trend in the Beas river and insignificant trend in the Ravi river. Notwithstanding these variations, the studies indicate an increase in the number of 'high-magnitude flood' events in the rivers in northwestern Himalaya in the last three decades.

7 illus, 6 tables, 74 ref

022734   Bhanja S K;Mandal A B;Agarwal S K;Majumdar S (Avian Nutrition and Feed Technology, Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar-243 122) : Effect of in ovo glucose injection on the post hatch-growth, digestive organ development and blood biochemical profiles in broiler chickens. Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(8), 869-72.

Study was undertaken to investigate the effect of in ovo injection of glucose on post-hatch growth, digestive organ development and blood biochemical profile. 50 mg glucose was injected into the yolk sac of egg at 18th day of incubation using 25 mm needle. In day-old chicks in ovo injection of glucose did not affect the hatchability and body weight but had higher levels of plasma glucose and plasma protein. Weight of liver, proventriculus, gizzard and small intestine were also apparently higher in glucose-injected group than that of un-injected control at day-old age. At 10 days of age, glucose injected chicks had significantly lower plasma glucose and plasma uric acid level, but higher weight of small intestine and spleen. Male birds in glucose injected and sham control recorded around 35 g higher body weight than un-injected control at 21days of age. Feed conversion ratio during early post-hatch period was better in glucose injected and un-injected control birds. In ovo glucose injection speeds up the early intestinal development and post-hatch growth by modifying the early energy status of the hatchlings.

3 tables, 17 ref

022733   Balamani N;Sashi V;Malathy N S;Gnanasoundari S (Pant Biology and Plant Biotechnology Dep, P.S.G.R. Krishnammal College for Women, Peelamedu, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Xylanase production from Pseudomonas putida and Staphylococcus aureus. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(2), 401-3.

Objective of this study was to investigate the xylanase production from two bacterial species, namely Pseudomonas putida and Staphylococcus aureus. Several xylan sources, were tested for xylanase production, among which wheat bran supported maximum xylanase production in both the species. Effect of pH and temperature on xylanase production was also studied. The culture medium with pH-6,5 and temperature 40°C in Pseudomonas putida and pH 6.0 and temperature 45°C in Staphylococcs aureus promoted the growth and maximum xylanase production.

3 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref