000235   Lee S Y;Baskar T B;Kim J K;Park S U (Regional Innovation Center for Dental Science & Engineering, Chosun Univ, 309 Pilmun-daero, Dong-gu, Gwngju, 501-759, Korea) : Enhanced shoot organogenesis in Aloe saponaria following treatment with ethylene inhibitors and polyamines. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 17-21.

Plants belonging to the genus Aloe are wide spread in Africa and are important in the pharmaceutical industry. Here, we investigated the role of ethylene inhibitors and polyamines in the enhancement of shoot regeneration from meristem explants of Aloe saponaria. A rapid, highly effective shoot regeneration procedure was designed using meristem explants. First, we found that Murashige and Skoog (MS)with 2mg/L6-benzyl amino purine (BAP) was the best for shoot initiation. Shoot regeneration was assessed using different concentrations of AgNO₃ aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG), and CoCl₂ (1, 5, 10, and 20mg/L).While AgNO₃ induced shoots (3.5/explant) and increased shoot length by 2.5cm at concentrations of 10mg/L, an additional increase in the concentration of AgNO₃ decreased shoot production and shoot length. We also analyzed the effects of three different polyamines(putrescine,spermidine, and spermine) at various concentrations (10, 30, 70, and 100mg/L),in addition toMS with 2mg/L BAP, on shoot regeneration and length. Among these compounds, putrescine best augmented shoot regeneration and length, with the largest increase in the number of shoots (3.7/explant) and a moderate augmentation in shoot length 2.5cm at 70mg/LusingMS with 2mg/L BAP, followed by spermidine and spermine. This study revealed that the addition of ethylene inhibitors and polyamines couldimprove shoot regeneration and length in Aloe species. The procedures established in the present study could be used to produce a larger number of shoots, as well as enhance plant growth over a short period, and could be used as an important tool in future gene transfer studies.

2 tables, 27 ref

000234   Laith A A;Mazlan A G;Eddendy A W;Ambak M A; Nadirah M;Muhammad T S;Zain S M;Jabar A;Najiah M (School of Fisheries and Aquaculture Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia) : Phytochemical composition and In vitro antimicrobial antioxidant acticites of methanolic leaf extracts from Excoecaria agallocha. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 599-608.

This study investigated the phytochemical, antimicrobialand antioxidant properties of methanolic leaf fractionated extracts of Excoecariaagallocha.Antibacterial activity test of fractionated extract of Excoecariaagallocha was conducted via Disk diffusion assay. Micro titer broth dilution technique was performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC). Qualitative and quantitative DPPH radical scavenging activity determines the antioxidant activity in E. agallocha. Chromatographic separation was completed using thin layer chromatography (TLC) and column chromatographic techniques.Phytochemical screening of fractionated extract revealed active constituents including alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoid and tannins. In vitro antibacterial activity of column-fractionated extract demonstrated inhibitory effect against Flavobacteriumindicum, Chryseobacteriummeningosepticum, Chryseobacteriumindologenes and Chryseobacteriumgleum isolated from diseased fish. MIC andMBC of E. agallocha fractionated extract was 1.56 mg/ml and 3.12 mg/ml, respectively. TLC-based qualitative DPPH analysis revealed antioxidant activity in E. agallocha extract, specified by yellowish stain on maroon color TLC plate.These bands indicate the presence of various compounds that could act as potential antimicrobial agents.The present study indicates that E.agallocha leaves contain active phytochemicals which inhibit bacteria and could be useful in the treatment of microbial infections in fish.

5 illus, 4 tables, 42 ref

000233   Kuruvilla L;Sathik M B M;Thomas M;Luke L P; Sumesh K V;Annamalainathan K (NO, Rubber Research Institute of India, Rubber Board, Kottayam-686 009, Email: sathik@rubberboard.org.in) : Expression of miRNAs of Hevea brasiliensis under drought stress in altered in clones with varying levels of drought tolerance. Indian J Biotechnol 2016, 15(2), 153-60.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) in plants play critical role in regulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level in a number of biological processes including plant growth, development and defense responses against biotic and abiotic stresses. Recent reports indicate the role of miRNAs in regulating genes associated with various metabolic as well as abiotic stress responsive pathways in Hevea. The present study was initiated with an objective to identify drought responsive miRNAs from Hevea and to elucidate their role in stress response/tolerance in four clones of Hevea with varying levels of drought tolerance. miRNAs were isolated from leaves of Hevea and annotated after sequencing. The selected miRNAs were quantified using real time PCR. Four of the miRNAs displayed definite pattern of expression. The miR164, miR167 and the novel miRNA (HbmiRn_42) were down regulated in susceptible clones. HbmiRn_42 got upregulated in tolerant clones, indicating its strong association with stress tolerance. On the contrary, miR482 was down regulated in tolerant clones, while there was no change in its expression level in susceptible clones. This study throws light on stress responsive miRNAs of Hevea and their regulation under drought conditions.

5 illus, 1 table, 42 ref

000232   Kriger O;Lisitsyn A;Prosekov A (Federal State-owned Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Vocati, , 47 Stroiteley Boulevard, 650056, Russia) : Characteristics of the molecular weight distribution of the prion protein fractions in blood and milk processing products. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 85-90.

Molecular weight distribution of prion proteins in meat, blood, processed blood products, gelatin, milk, cheese has been studied in a paper. The obtained electrophoregrams of blood plasma samples indicate the presence of two fractions of blood protein in the range of 30 to 40 kDa. The relative abundance of these proteins in the blood plasma contains 22.06% of the total, which are 2.15 g/100 g of blood plasma. Electrophoretic separation of gelatin industrial samples, which is obtained by partial hydrolysis of collagen extracted from bones, hides and skins, cores and tendons of cattle, shows a high degree of product purification. The light fractions of proteins are not detected. The results obtained indicate that the soluble protein fraction of meat and blood plasma has a high degree of infectivity against pathogenic form of prion protein.

1 illus, 4 tables, 10 ref

000231   Kim J K;Baskar T B;Park S U (Life Sciences and Bio-Resource and Environmental Center Div, Incheon National Univ, Incheon 406-772, Korea, Email: supark@cnu.ac.kr) : Silver nitrate and putrescine enhance in vitro shoot organogenesis in Polygonum tinctorium. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 53-8.

Polygonumtinctorium, also known as indigo plant, is widely distributed in Japan. Only few studies have investigated the regeneration of the indigo plant. The aim of this study was to develop an efficient protocol for shoot regeneration and shoot elongation. Shoot organogenesis and plant regeneration from internode explants of P. tinctorium were improved using the ethylene inhibitor silver nitrate (AgNO₃)and thepolyamine putrescine. Culturing of internode explants on initial shoot regeneration media (Murashige and Skoog media with 6-benzylaminopurineat 2 mg/L) supplemented with different concentrations (0, 1, 5, 7, 10, 20mg L^-1) of AgNO3 significantly improved the regeneration efficiency, resulting in higher numberof shoots per explant and longer shoot length. The greatest number of shoots (7.2 ± 0.8) and shoot length (2.1 ± 0.1 cm) were obtained in media supplemented with 7 mg L^-1AgNO₃, and further increase in the concentration of AgNO₃ decreased the shoot production and shoot length. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of various concentrations (0, 10. 30, 50, 100, 200 mg L^-11) of putrescine on shoot regeneration and shoot length. The highest number of shoots (7.4 ± 0.8) and longest shoots (2.2 ± 0.1 cm) were observed in cultures supplemented with 50 mg L^-1putrescine and further increase in concentration reduced the shoot regeneration and elongation. Our present study suggested that the addition of ethylene inhibitor AgNO₃ and polyamine putrescine could be applied in micropropagation and plant transformation protocols of P. tinctorium.

2 tables, 36 ref

000230   Khan M M R;Ray M;Ray L;Guha A K (Biological Chemistry Dep, Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Jadavpur, Kolkata-700 032, Email: bcmrk@iacs.res.in) : Extracellular laccase from Pleurotus sajor-caju: fermentative conditions and influence of nitrogenous sources. Indian J Biotechnol 2016, 15(2), 230-5.

The present paper describes the production of extracellular laccase, a lignolytic enzyme, through fermentation of molasses salt medium (MSM) by Pleurotus sajor-caju, an edible mushroom, under stationary condition. MSM supported better growth of the fungus as well as laccase production compared to the other two media used, viz., whey and potato dextrose broth. Both laccase and edible biomass production attained the maximum value after 15 d of fermentation and depended on the fungal species, physico-chemical conditions of fermentation, and nature and composition of the fermentation media. Increase in laccase and biomass production to the extent of 9.1-48.0% and 4.2-76.4%, respectively was achieved by supplementing the medium with different organic and inorganic nitrogen sources. The positive effects of supplementation of MSM with nitrogen sources on enzyme production resulted from higher biomass yield. About 2.5-fold increase in laccase activity was obtained in comparison with the non-optimized medium. The results establish the importance of P. sajor-caju for the production of lignolytic extracellular enzyme, laccase.

2 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

000229   Khan A;Jayanthi M;Gantasala N P;Bhooshan N (Zonal Technology Management and Business Plant Development Unit, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, (IARI), New Delhi-110 012, Email: jayman21@gmail.com) : Rapid and efficient protocol for in vitro multiplication of genetically uniform Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni). Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(7), 477-81.

Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni), commonly called candy leaf or sweet leaf, endemic to South America, is an important medicinal plant. As a source of low calorie natural sweetener 'stevoside', it is used in obesity, diabetes, treatment of heartburn and tooth decay, and also serves as a food supplement. Large scale commercial propagation of S. rebaudiana demands a suitable protocol. Here, we propose an improved protocol for in vitro multiplication of S. rebaudiana from nodal explants. In this protocol, the effect of laboratory grade urea on multiple shoot induction from nodal explants was studied. The nodal explants were initially cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal media for 2 weeks which facilitated the axillary bud break. Further, culturing of these explants on MS medium fortified with 6 benzyl aminopurine (BAP) (2 mg/L) and Naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) (1 mg/L) with and without urea (5 mg/L) for a period of 40 days revealed maximum shoot production of 44.56 from a single nodal explant in media supplemented with urea as compared to 22.44 without urea. The differences in the number of shoots produced were significant and these shoots readily rooted in MS media with NAA (4 mg/L). Primary and secondary hardening was successful in these plants. There were no visible morphological abnormalities observed in the micropropagated plantlets. Genetic analysis from random samples also revealed that these plants are genetically uniform. The advantage of the present protocol is that the complete process of multiple shoot induction, rooting and hardening could be completed within a period of 6 months as compared to the existing protocols.

3 illus, 21 ref

000228   Kelaiya S V;Chauhan P M;Akbari S H (Renewable Energy and Rural Engineering Dep, College of Agricultural E, Junagad Agricultural Univ, Junagadh-362 001, Email: sagarkelaiya@gmail.com) : Process development for the produtciton of biodiesel from microalgae (Chlorella sp.) produced by locally development culture. Green Fmg 2016, 7(1), 222-5.

Microalgae (Chlorella sp.) was used for the production of biodiesel. Microalgae were harvested for 15 days interval up to 160 days. The productivity of algae was obtained as 1.5 g/liter/day. Physico-chemical properties of algae viz., bulk density, colour, particle size and physical state at room temperature as physical properties and moisture content, lipid content, protein content and carbohydrate as chemical properties of algae were determined and found to be 0.4 g/cc, green, 2-10 μm, dry powder form, 3.48%, 8- 10%, 51- 58% and 12-17% respectively. For oil extraction, two extraction solvent systems were used in which Hexane/ether (1:1, v/v) resulted in low lipid recovery i.e. 4.8% (dry basis) than that of chloroform/methanol (2: 1, v/v) resulted 9.0% (dry basis). To develop process for biodiesel production from algae, three different transesterification processes were employed with 1:5 methanol to bio-oil ratio based on three different catalysts viz., alkali catalyst, acid catalyst and enzymatic catalyst with two different temperature i.e. 50°C and 60 °C. Alkali catalyst was resulted the highest yield of biodiesel to 92% at 60 °C temperature.

8 illus, 4 tables, 5 ref

000227   Kartika R;Barus T;Surbakti R;Simanjuntak P (Faculty of Mathematic and Natural Sciences, Mulawarman Univ, Samarinda, Indonesia, Email: rudi_biokimia@yahoo.com) : Anticancer activity of bioacive compounds from fruits of Bawang Hutan (Scorodocarpus bornensis Becc). Asian J Chem 2015, 27(12), 4663-5.

In this research, dehydroxyscorodocarpin B was isolated from fruits of Bawang hutan and tested its anticancer activity against L₁₂₁₀ line with resulted anticancer activity IC₅₀ value.

3 tables, 7 ref

000226   Kansal S;Singh S;Alok Kumar (Community Medicine Dep, Institute of Medicaal Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh) : Menstrual hygiene practices in context of schooling: a community study among rural adolescent girls in Varanasi. Indian J community Med 2016, 41(1), 39-44.

Up until now, poor menstrual hygiene in developing countries has been an insufficiently acknowledged problem. The lack of attention to this issue is striking as we cannot achieve several Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), that is, 2, 3 4,5, and5B. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness about menarche and hygienic practices during menstruation in context of schooling. Community-based cross-sectional study using a mix method approach (qualitative and quantitative). It was conducted among 650 adolescent girls in the field practice area of Rural Health and Training Centre, Chiraigaon block of district Varanasi between January and June2011. Pretested, semistructured interview schedule was used. Data were analyzed statistically by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Out of the total 650 respondents, 590 (90.78%) had attained menarche at the time of interview and only one-third of the respondents (29.4%) were aware of menstruation before menarche and sisters (55%) played the key role in providing information to them. Only 31% respondents were using sanitary pads during menstruation. Self-reported reproductive tract infection (RTI) was observed more in respondents not maintaining hygienic practices (6.6%) as compared to those maintaining hygiene (2.6%). From the Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) as well as quantitative survey it was observed that the awareness about menarche before its onset was still poor in rural areas. Significant association (P <60> 0.05) was observed between respondent education and their awareness about menarche before its onset. Therefore, it is recommended that teachers can play an influential role in informing them about changes during adolescence, especially about menarche and other issues related to menstruation. As per the present study, sisters and mothers were the major source of information. Therefore, there is a need for the provision of comprehensive family life education for the parents also.

6 tables, 11 ref

000225   Jana B B;Lahiri S;Sarkar D;Rana S;Bhakta J N; Paul D (International Centre for Ecological Engineering, Kalyani Univ, Kalyani-741 235, Email: bbjana@gmail.com) : Storage induced changes in coliform, heterotrophic groups of bacteria and nutrient levels of human urine for its safe use in biological production. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(8), 544-8.

Human urine is a potential source of various nutrients, minerals and trace elements. Its use as a fertilizer is growing popular among farmers. Here, we examined the pattern of changes in the counts of coliform, heterotrophic bacteria as well as physico-chemical characteristics of human urine during different days of storage under closed conditions at ambient temperature. We observed that after 253 days of storage under closed condition, the coliform counts were reduced significantly and remained within the safe limit to be used as fertilizer. With increase in storage period, the concentration of phosphate showed decline coupled with rise in pH, alkalinity and electrical conductance. Our study revealed that human urine can be used as safe fertilizer after 8 months of storage under closed conditions at ambient temperature ranging 25-35°.

1 illus, 1 table, 33 ref

000224   Huang X;Sun M;Li G (Pharmacology Dep, Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou Sichuan, 646000 China) : Method for qualitative and quantitative determination of gallic acid in Herba gei. Biomed Res 2015, 26(2), 353-6.

To establish the method for qualitative and quantitative determination of gallic acid in Herba Gei. Gallic acid content is determined by HPLC with Diamonsil C₁₈ column as the stationary phase, under the conditions of methanol-0.1% phosphoric acid in water (10:90) mobile phase, 271 nm detection wavelength, and 40°C column temperature. Peak area of gallic acid shows a good linearity with the injection volume within a 0.202<126>1.212 μg range, r=0.9997; average recovery is 99.26%, RSD 2.20%. Through quantitative determination of Herba Gei of different origins, the method established herein is confirmed to be simple, fast, sensitive, accurate, reliable and reproducible.

s, 2 tables, 14 ref

000223   Gupta G;Sharma S B;Gupta R;Gupta S;Singh U R (Biochemistry Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi-110 095, Email: drsbs08@hotmail.com) : Assessment of prophylatic effect of Senna auriculata (L.) Roxb. leaves on alcohol-induced pancreatitis in rat model. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(9), 612-4.

Aqueous leaf extract of Senna auriculata (L.) Roxb. syn. Cassia auriculata (SLEx) is known to possess potential antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. Based on the known correlation between exocrine pancreatic function and endocrine secretary capacity, here, we studied the prophylactic effect of the SLEx on alcohol induced pancreatitis in rats. To induce chronic pancreatitis, the rats were fed with unsaturated fat i.e. corn oil (2.5 mL/kg) along with high dose of ethanol (10.2 g/kg) for 4 wk, and was increased 0.6 g/kg after every 2 days for 1 wk and then 0.6 g/kg after every 4 days for a period of 4 wk. SLEx was orally administered to rats at dose of 400 mg/kg/day for 4 wk. At the end of 4th wk, pancreatic enzymes i.e., α-amylase, lipase, serum and pancreatic MDA levels were estimated. Pancreatic histopathological studies were also performed. The SLEx significantly reduced the serum levels of α-amylase and lipase along with significant suppression in serum and pancreatic tissue lipid peroxidation. Histomorphological studies did not show any fatty vacoules in acinar cells of SLEx-treated rats. However, vacoulation was seen in acini of pathogenic control rats. With the results, we conclude that Senna auriculata aqueous leaf extract has potential to reduce the ethanol-induced pathogenecity, and it possesses prophylactic effect on alcohol-induced pancreatitis. However, a long term trial is needed to ascertain its therapeutic potential for pancreatitis.

2 illus, 16 ref

000222   Guo R;Qi B (Physical Education Institute, Henan Univ of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, P.R. China) : Protective effect of polysaccharides from cortex eucommiae on exhaustive exercise-induced oxidative stress in mice. Biomed Res 2015, 26(2), 375-9.

Cortex Eucommiae is well known in traditional Chinese herbal medicine. The present study investigated the effects of polysaccharides from Cortex Eucommiae (PCE) on exhaustive exercise- induced oxidative stress in mice by measuring the changes in the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and catalase (CAT) and levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). The mice were randomly divided into four groups: a negative control group, a low-dose PCE intervention group, a medium-dose PCE intervention group and a high-dose PCE intervention group. The mice in the control group were given distilled water whereas those in the three intervention groups were given different doses of PCE (10, 50 and 100 mg/kg). After 28 days, the mice were made to perform an exhaustive swimming exercise. Changes in the activities of the main antioxidant enzymes and the levels of MDA and 8-OHdG in the blood, liver and muscle of the mice were measured. The results of the study showed that PCE increased the activities of SOD, GPX and CAT and decreased the levels of MDA and 8-OHdG in mice, suggesting that PCE has a protective effect on exhaustive exercise- induced oxidative stress.

5 illus, 25 ref

000221   Goel A;Wati L (Bioconversion Technology Laboratory, Microbiology Dep, CCSHAU, Hisar-125 004, Email: lwkraj@gmail.com) : Ethanol production from rice (Oryza sativa) straw by simultaneous saccharification and cofermentation. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(8), 525-9.

Ethanol production from alkali treated rice straw was investigated by simultaneous saccharification and cofermentation (SSCF) using commercial cellulase and 3 different yeast strains viz., Saccharomyces cerevisiae HAU-1, Pachysolen tannophilus and Candida sp. individually as well as in combination at varied fermentation temperature and incubation time. Dilute alkali (2%) pretreatment of straw resulted in efficient delignification as observed by low residual lignin (12.52%) with 90.6% cellulose and 28.15% hemicellulose recovery. All the 3 yeast strains were able to produce ethanol form alkali treated rice straw and overall ethanol concentration varied from 5.30 to 24.94 g/L based on different fermentation time and temperature. Comparative analysis of ethanol production from different yeast strains combinations revealed maximum ethanol concentration of 23.48 g/L after 96 h incubation at 35°C with P. tannophilus individually and 24.94 g/L when used as co-culture with Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

1 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

000220   Ghosh S;Saha P P;Dasgupta S C;Gomes A (Laboratory of Toxinology & Experimental Pharmacodynamics, Physiology Dep, Univ of Calcutta, Kolkata-700 009, Email: agomescu@gmail.com) : Antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic activities of Bungarus fasciatus venom in experimental animal models. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(9), 569-76.

Pain and inflammation are intimately associated with rheumatoid arthritis, a growing bone-joint related problem of the modern society. Though several therapeutic managements are available for arthritis, their side effects not only limit their use, but also advocate the quest for natural therapies. In this study, we explored the antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic activities of Bungarus fasciatus venom (BFV) in experimental animal models. Rheumatoid arthritis was induced by Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA) in male Wistar albino rats. Lyophilized BFV was diluted in 0.9% NaCl. Antiarthritic activity showed that BFV significantly reduced the paw and ankle diameters; urinary hydroxyproline, glucosamine levels and serum ACP/ALP/TNF-α/IL-1β/IL-17/Cathepsin-K/MM P-1 levels. These parameters were significantly increased in FCA induced arthritic animals. Joint histopathology study indicated the partial restoration of joint structure. Treatment with BFV significantly reduced the mean latency time of tail flick response, acetic acid induced writhing response and formalin induced licking response in male albino mice. BFV treatment also significantly reduced carrageenan induced paw edema and xylene induced ear edema in male albino mice. The results indicated that BFV possess antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic properties and further studies are warranted to find the active constituents present in BFV.

3 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

000219   Elazan S J;Higgins-Steele A E;Fotso J C; Rosenthal M H;Rout D (Concern Worldwide US Innovations for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, New York, USA) : Reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health in the community: task-sharing between male and female health workers in and Indian rural context. Indian J community Med 2016, 41(1), 34-8.

Interviews from male and female CHWs were coded around community-based engagement, outreach services, and links to facility-based care. Community-based engagement: MHAs completed tasks both dependent and independent of their gender, such as informing couples on safe RMNCH care in the antenatal and postnatal periods. MHAs motivated males on appropriate family planning methods, demonstrating clear gendered responsibility. Outreach services: MHAs were most valuable traveling to remote areas to inform about and bring mothers and children to community health events, with this division of labor appreciated by female health workers. Link to facility-based services: MHAs were recognized as a welcome addition accompanying women to health facilities for delivery, particularly in nighttime. This study demonstrates the importance of gendered CHW roles and male-female task-sharing to improve access to community health events, outreach services, and facility-based RMNCH care.

21 ref

000218   Dhawan S;Gunjan S;Pal A;Tripathi R (Food Microbiology Dep, The Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Univ, Lucknow, Email: renu1113@rediffmail.com) : Potentiation of antimalarial activity of arteether in combination with vetiver root extract. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(5), 315-21.

In malaria, development of resistance towards artemisinin derivatives has urged the need for new drugs or new drug combinations to tackle the drug resistant malaria. We studied the fresh root extract of Vetiver zizanioides (Linn.) Nash (VET) with a CDRI-CIMAP antimalarial α/β arteether (ART) together for their antimalarial potential. Our results showed additive to synergistic antimalarial activity of VET and ART with sum fractional inhibitory concentrations Σ FICs 1.02±0.24 and 1.12±0.32 for chloroquine sensitive (CQS) and chloroquine resistant (CQR) strain of Plasmodium falciparum (William H. Welch), respectively. Further, these combinations were explored against multidrug resistant rodent malaria parasite i.e. P. yoelii nigeriensis. Analysis of in vivo interaction of ART and VET showed that 10 mg/kgx5days of ART with 1000 mg/kg of VET x5 days cured 100% mice infected with MDR parasite, while the same dose of ART could produce only up to 30% cure and VET fraction was not curative at all. Synergism/additiveness, found between VET and ART is reported for the first time. The curative dose of ART in the combination was reduced to its one fourth, and thus limits the side effects, if any. Although antimalarial potential of ART was enhanced by VET, action mechanism of later needs to be elucidated in detail.

ref

000217   Darmasiwi S;Herawati O;Oktafia Ningsih O C (Laboratory of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Email: saridarma@ugm.ac.id) : Aromatic compounds production by fungal solid state fermentation in Pandanus tectorius fruits. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 75-8.

Production of microbial aromatic compounds by solid-state fermentation is increasing lately, due to the ability of microbial to use agro-industrial wastes as their substrates. The aim of this research was to know potential of aromatic compounds production by solid-state fermentation of Trichoderma viridae in Pandanus tectorius fruits. To prepare the substrates, basal mesocarp part of fruits were cut, juiced,pulps were dried and grinded until reached fine particle size. Fermentations were carried out in 250 mL flasks with10⁸fungal spores/mL, pH 6.0, 76,6% (w/v) moisturesat 30°C for 10 days. Aromatic compounds resulted from SSF were then analyzed using GC/MS. Results showed that Pandanus tectorius fruitscontained total sugars 13,015%, proteins 3%, lipids 1,39% and moisture content were76,6%. This low sugars content in substrates seemed to be the main factor of Trichoderma viridae slow growth. There were 17 peaks of aromatic compounds detected in GC/MS, consisted of alkenes hydrocarbons (tetradecane, tertracosane, tetracosahexaene, pentadecane, hexacosane, heptadecane, and octadecane), alcohol (phenol), amide (9-octacenamide) and monoterpene aldehid (9-octadecenal). Therefore the fermentation conditions need to be further optimized to make better growth for fungi and higher aromatic compounds production.

1 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

000216   Dagi H T;Dulaimi D A A Al;Kus H;Seyham T; Findik D;Tuncer I;Arslan U (Microbiology Dep, Faculty of Medicine, Selcuk Univ, Konya, Turkey) : Genotype distribution of extended specturm <98>-lactamase producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Biomed Res 2015, 26(2), 235-8.

Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production is the most important cause of betalactam resistance in Gram-negative bacteria. Although it may also be found in other Gramnegative bacteria, ESBL is most commonly produced by Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae strains. In this study, we aimed to investigate the distribution of β-lactamase genes in ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae strains. One hundred and twenty isolates of E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolated from clinical samples were used in this study. The identification and the antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed by VITEK 2 system in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. ESBL production was determined accoring to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. The DNA isolation was performed with a commercial kit following company recommendations. blaTEM, blaSHV and blaCTX-M genes were amplified by multiplex PCR with specific primers. Of the 120 isolates collected, 84 isolates were of E. coli and 36 isolates were of K. pneumoniae. blaTEM gene was the most prevalent type (85.8%) followed by blaCTX-M (83.3%) and blaSHV (24.2%). No blaSHV gene was detected in the E. coli strains. Among 120 ESBL-producing strains, 10.8% were susceptible to cefepime, 10.0% to ceftazidime, while 5.0% to ceftriaxone. In conclusion, blaTEM gene was the most frequently encountered ESBL of E. coli and K. pneumonia in our hospital. Further molecular surveillance and epidemiological studies of such resistant bacteria are recommended for monitoring and controlling the spread of ESBL producing strains.

1 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

000215   Chokriwal A;SHarma M M;Singh A (Biosciences Dep, Manipal Univ, VPO Dehmikalan, Jaipur Ajmer Expressway, Jaipur, Rajasthan) : Green nanoparticle synthesis and their applications. Int J Pharmac 2015, 2(3), 110-15.

Production of metallic nanoparticles by physical and chemical method has numerous drawbacks along with use of toxic chemicals, high energy expenditure and non- biodegradable products. Hence, researchers are showing great interest in biological synthesis of nanoparticles. The biological method provide clean, bio-degradable, non-toxic and eco-friendly methods for nanoparticles synthesis as compared to conventional method like physical and chemical. This review concentrates on biological method specially biosynthesis of different types of nanoparticles using bacteria and their application in different fields.

4 illus, 1 table, 68 ref

000214   Chichaklu A H;Hedayati M A;Esmaili F S; Ghaderi E;Shiri M H D (Microbiology Dep, Kurdistan Univ of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran, Email: hooshyar.kums@gmail.com) : Prevalence of hopQ alleles and relationship between cagA and vacA s1 with hopQ I gene in Helicobacter pylori strains isolated from patients with peptic ulcer referred to Towhid Hospital in sanandaj (2014). Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 91-4.

Infection with H. pylori leads to digestive diseases including gastritis, peptic ulcer, and gastric adenocarcinoma. The virulence factors of H. pylori outer membrane proteins or Hop (Helicobacter pylori outer membrane protein) as an auto transporter and has widely adhesion properties, phase changes and recombination. H. pylori genome is widely encoded HopQ (Helicobacter pylori outer membrane protein Q), which affect the strains of H. pylori binding to human epithelial cells. The aim of this study determine the prevalence of hopQ alleles and associated Between cagA and vacA s1 with hopQ I gene in H. pylori strains isolated from patients with peptic ulcer referred to Towhid Hospital in Sanandaj (2014). Biopsy specimens from 100 patients with peptic ulcer H. pylori positive were collected and separated, different allele hopQ, vacA, cagA by PCR (Polymerase Chain reaction) was determined. The relationship between genes, cagA and vacA s1 hopQ I with Chi-square test SPSS version 20 (version 19, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL) was used. P value <60>0.05 was considered as significant. The frequency of genes hopQ I, hopQ II, cagA, vacA s1, vacA s2, respectively, 54 (54%), 46 (46%), 51 (51%), 83 (83%), 17 (17%). The relationship between hopQ I and cagA (P<60>0.01), hopQ I and vacA s1 (P<60>0.026), respectively. In this study, the presence of the CagA and hopQ I, HopQ I and VacA S1 gene in patients with gastric ulcer statistically significant relationship was found.

4 tables, 7 ref

000213   Chennappa G;Naik M K;Adkar-Purushothama C R; Amaresh Y S;Sreenivasa M Y (Studies in Microbiology Dep, Mysore Univ, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: sreenivasamy@gmail.com) : PGP potential, abiotic stress tolerance and antifungal activity of Azotobacter strains isolated from paddy soils. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(5), 322-31.

Azotobacter strains were isolated by serial dilution method and colonies were viscous, smooth, glistening, and brown to black colour on Jenson's N-free agar. Morphological and biochemical tests showed characteristic features of Azotobacter. Further, molecular analyses revealed the presence of different Azotobacter species viz., A. armeniacus, A. chroococcum, A. salinestris, A. tropicalis and A. vinelandii. The isolates were tested for their ability of nitrogen fixation, indole acetic acid (IAA), gibberllic acid production and phosphate solubilization. Four isolates (GVT-1, GVT-2 KOP-11 and SND-4) were efficient in fixation of highest amount of N₂ (29.21 μg NmL^-1day^-1), produced IAA (25.50 μg mL^-1), gibberllic acid (17.25 μg 25 mL^-1) and formed larger P solubilizing zone (13.4 mm). Some of the Azotobacter strains were produced siderophores, hydrogen cyanide and were positive for ammonia production with respect to antifungal activity of Azotobacter was tested with dual culture method and A. tropicalis inhibited the growth of Fusarium, Aspergillus and Alternaria species. Azotobacter isolates were tested against salt (0-10%), temperature (4-55°C), pH (5.0-10) and insecticide chloropyrifos (0-3%) tolerance study. Among them, A. chroococcum was found tolerant to a maximum of 6% NaCl with a temperature of 35-45°C and to a pH up to 8. All the 4 strains showed effective growth against 3% chloropyrifos concentration. The studies revealed that the Azotobacter strains not only produced plant growth promoting substances but are also tolerant to abiotic stresses such as temperature, pH and insecticides.

3 illus, 3 tables, 39 ref

000212   Chandrashekarappa S M;Vayoth S O;Seetharaman M;Lakshmi Kumar (Anaesthesiology and Critical Care and Gastrointestinal Surgery Dep, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Kochi, Kerala, Email: lakshmi..238@gmail.com) : Superior vena cava syndrome due to catheter related thrombus in a patient with a permanent pacemaker. Indian J Anaesth 2015, 59(11), 758-60.

^ssc1 illus, 6 ref

000211   Chakraborty R D;Maheswarudu G;Purusothaman P; Kuberan G;Seastian J;Radhakishnan E V;Thangaraja R (Crustacean Fisheries Div, ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Ernakulam North PO Cochin-682 018, Email: rekhadevi76@yahoo.com) : Nuclear and mitochondrial DNA markers based identification of blunthom lobster Palinustus waguensis Kubo, 1963 from South-west coast of India. Indian J Biotechnol 2016, 15(2), 172-7.

The present study reports the occurrence of Palinustus waguensis Kubo, 1963 from South-west coast of India on the basis of morphological as well as molecular data. The DNA sequences of two mitochondrial genes, large subunit ribosomal DNA (16S rDNA) and cytochrome oxidase I (COI), and two nuclear-protein coding genes, viz., phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and sodium-potassium ATPase a-subunit (NaK), were submitted in the GenBank. Morphological examination of the specimen confirmed the identity of the species as P. waguensis. The pairwise genetic distance analysis, sequence identity and phylogenetic tree have shown that the specimen has similarity only with 16S rDNA sequence of P. waguensis of earlier reports. In the case of other genetic markers, it has shown some identity towards P. unicornutus and P. holthuisi, but with a high genetic difference. This study with sequence data of P. waguensis in GenBank will help to identify the specimen on molecular basis in future.

3 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

000210   Bhirangi R A;Khilari J M;Mehta U J (Maharashtra State Grape Growers Association, , Manjri Farm PO, Pune-412 307) : Effect of phosphate concentration on the production of antho-cyanins in the cell suspension cultures of grape (Vitis vinifera L.). Green Fmg 2016, 7(1), 161-4.

The influence of phosphate on the accumulation of anthocyanins and the production of the cell biomass was investigated in the cell cultures of Vitis vinifera cv Thompson Seedless during the year 2011-12. MS basal media supplemented with BAP and NAA yielded maximum callus induction and proliferation. It was indicated that the anthocyanin content increased with the decrease in phosphate concentration. The highest anthocyanin content (5.487mg/l) was recorded at 0.321mM phosphate concentration. However, a further decrease in phosphate concentration resulted in still lower anthocyanins, the reason of which needs to be investigated separately. At the highest phosphate concentration (2.5mM) the anthocyanin content was the least. The cell biomass was also observed to be influenced by the phosphate concentration. It increased with the decrease in phosphate concentration from 2.5mM to 0.321mM but decreased at 0.165 mM phosphate concentration, at which it was found to be the limiter for biomass production and hence the anthocyanin content.

1 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

000209   Bhargavi B J;Rafi M M;Rao D M (Biotechnology Dep, S K Univ, Anantapur-515 003, Email: rao.muralidhara@mail.com) : Effect of physicochemical conditions on phenol degradation by Corynebacterium glutamicum: a focus on phenol catabolic enzymes. Indian J Biotechnol 2016, 15(2), 236-42.

The present study was aimed to investigate phenol catabolic activity and phenol tolerance ability of lysine producing bacterium, Corynebacterium glutamicum ATCC 13032. The results revealed that phenol inhibited the growth rate of bacteria (<60> 20%) at a concentration of <62>1500 ppm, indicating the toxicity of phenol to bacterial cells at higher concentrations. The maximum (<62> 95%) growth rate was observed at 200 ppm during a period of 24 h. In the present study, optimal conditions were standardized at different concentrations of phenol to know the phenol catabolism and phenol tolerance of C. glutamicum. Further, an attempt was also made to know the effect of yeast extract on phenol degradation by C. glutamicum. The results also demonstrated that increase in the yeast extract enhanced phenol (300 ppm) degradation efficiency of C. glutamicum, which reflects the phenol tolerance of bacteria. Thus, in-depth optimization studies on metabolic and molecular aspects may contribute to understand the potentiality of C. glutamicum in the biodegradation of phenol in large scale bio-remediation processes.

4 illus, 5 tables, 27 ref

000208   Bhadada S V;Goyal R K (Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma Univ, SG Highway, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Email: goyalrk@rediffmail.com) : Effect of flavonoid rich fraction of Tephrosia purpurea (Linn.) pers. on complications associated with streptozotocin-induced type I diabetes mellitus. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(7), 457-66.

Globally, diabetes is a serious health issue affecting one in 11 adults and consumes 12% of global health expenditure. Prevalence of dyslipidemia in diabetes is not uncommon since decades. Further, patients with type II diabetes have 2-4 folds more risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Plants with antioxidant potential are known to have beneficial effects in diabetes and its complications. Natural compounds, flavonoids particularly, ameliorate hyperglycemia as well as CVD. Here, we evaluated common wasteland weed Tephrosia purpurea, used traditionally as folk medicine to treat many disorders including diabetes. We studied the effect of 8-wk treatment of flavonoid-rich fraction of T. purpurea (FFT_p) (40 mg/kg/day/p.o.) on various biochemical, cardiovascular and lenticular parameters on streptozotocin (STZ) (45 mg/kg, i.v.) induced type I diabetic rats. STZ administration produced significant hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and altered cardiac biomarkers like lactate dehydrogenase, creatinine kinase and reduced antioxidants in lenticular tissues of rats. Treatment with FFT_p significantly prevented STZ-induced hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia as well as cardiovascular markers. We observed decreased rate of pressure development (+dp/dt) and decay (-dp/dt) in STZ diabetic hearts which was prevented by FFT_p. Further, the soluble protein levels and the antioxidants were also elevated in the diabetic rats by the treatment. In conclusion, our data suggest that FFT_p produces beneficial effects on diabetes induced cardiovascular complications and cataract. Such beneficial actions may be attributed to the antioxidant property of flavonoids, quercetin or rutin, present in T. purpurea.

5 illus, 4 tables, 39 ref

000207   Beisenov D;Stanbekova G;Nadirova L;Zhigailov A;Iskakov B (Aitkhozhin Institute of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, , 86, Dosmukhamedov Str., Almaty, Kazakhstan) : Expression of a sheep pox virus gene in plabnt systems under the control of plant viral regulatory elements and with sub-cellular targeting. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 1-8.

The aim of this work was to investigate the feasibility of producing the sheep pox virus surface antigen that is an ortholog of vaccinia viral A27L in wheat germ cell free system and then in transgenic tobacco plants. Insertion into the A27L-mRNA 5'-untranslated region (5'-UTR) of various translational enhancers (TEs) from plant viruses, as well as an artificial TE, allowed to increase the level of A27L protein synthesis in a wheat germ cell-free system. When the 5'-UTR of potato virus Y genomic RNA was used as a TE, synthesis of an additional polypeptide that was approximately 2 kDa larger than the primary product of translation was observed in both plant and mammalian cell-free systems. The DNA constructs used for stable transformation of tobacco plants, besides 5'-TEs, contained the transit-peptide-coding sequences for targeted accumulation of synthesized A27L protein. The amount of recombinant protein in the leaves of transgenic plants varied from 0.01 to 0.03% of the total soluble protein.

8 illus, 24 ref

000206   Aradat H H;El-Sayed M H;Askora A (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science and Arts, Northern Border Univ, Rafha, KSA, Email: hussam.arafat@nbu.edu.sa) : Silver nanoweapons: a novel tool against multidrug resistant bacteria. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 95-101.

Antibacterial activities of Ag-NPs have received much attention due to their effective killing and cost-effectiveness. Biosynthesis is an attractive and eco-friendly method to produce silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs). Ag-NPs are considered a promising tool to overcome the emergence of multi-drug resistant bacteria. In this study, bio-synthesis of Ag-NPs was attempted using plant extracts of peppermint. Characterization of Ag-NPs was achieved by UV-visible spectrophotometer and TEM. Monodispersed Ag-NPs were obtained with different sizes ranged from 6 to 88 nm. Antibacterial activities of Ag-NPs against pathogenic bacteria were evaluated using disc diffusion method.Our results indicated that Gram positive bacteria were more susceptible than Gram negative. The current study offers a cost-effective and eco-friendly method for biosynthesis of potent bactericidal Ag-NPs and their use against human pathogenic bacteria.

4 illus, 1 table, 48 ref

000205   Anuradha S;Shravan Kumar K;Bhama S;Kishan V (Univ College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009, Email: vbkishan@yahoo.com) : Fermentation, isolation, purification and characterization of an antitubercular antibiotic from Streptomyces luridus MTCC 4402. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(9), 577-85.

Tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, continues to be a serious public health problem around the world, and it urges the need for development of new antitubercular drugs. An antibiotic producing strain, Streptomyces luridus (MTCC 4402) was earlier isolated from soil by our group. In this work, the phylogenic status was established by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. The strain was found to be active against clinically resistant strains. The culture was grown in shake flasks in a medium containing cornsteep liquor, glucose, CaCO₃, soyabean meal and starch. Antibiotic production reached maximum at the end of 72 h. and fermentation profile was obtained. The active compound was extracted into ethyl acetate and was subjected to activity guided purification by column chromatography using silica gel, TLC and HPLC methods. The pure compound eluted at 16.7 min. by gradient elution was subjected to ¹H, ¹³C NMR and mass spectral analyses. The acquired data was compared with that of natural products' data base and found to be a known antibiotic, spiramycin. The purified compound was studied for mutagenic, cytotoxicity, antitubercular activities. It was non mutagenic at the concentration of 1000 μg/mL, non cytotoxic and active as antitubercular agent at a concentration of 64 mg/mL and was comparable to rifampicin.

5 illus, 5 tables, 23 ref

000204   Altunbas C;Ural F Z;Uygun M;Avcibasi N; Avcibasi U;Uygun D A;Akgol S (Biochemistry Dep, Ege Univ, 36040 Izmir, Turkey, Email: daktas@adu.edu.tr) : Hydrophobic nano-carries for lysozyme adsorption. Bull Mater Sci 2016, 39(2), 353-9.

In this work, poly(HEMA-APH) nanoparticles were synthesized by surfactant-free emulsion polymerization technique. Magnetic behaviour was introduced by simple addition of Fe₃O₄ into the polymerization medium. Characterization of the nanoparticle was carried out by FTIR, ESR, SEM, AFM and EDX analyses. These synthesized magnetic nanoparticles were used for adsorption of lysozyme. For this purpose, adsorption conditions were optimized and maximum lysozyme binding capacity was found to be 278.8 mg g^-1 polymer in pH 7.0 phosphate buffer at 25°C. Desorption and reusability properties of the nanoparticles were investigated and lysozyme adsorption efficiency did not change significantly at the end of the 10 successive reuses.

9 illus, 1 table, 42 ref

000203   Ali K;Rai R D;Tyagi A (Biochemistry Dep, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: at_bio@iari.res.in) : Expression analysis of bZIP transcription factor encoding genes in response to water deficit stress in rice. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(5), 1332-7.

In plants, basic region/leucine zipper motif (bZIP) transcription factors regulate several developmental processes and activate genes in response to biotic and abiotic stresses. Role of stress responsive bZIP transcription factors was studied in paddy in relation to different stages of development and water deficit stress (WDS) in a drought tolerant cultivar N22 and susceptible IR 64. Further, relative water content (RWC), membrane stability index (MSI) and abscisic acid (ABA) content were measured as indices of WDS at different stages of development and levels of stress. Expression of stress responsive bZIP transcription factors was directly correlated to developmental stage and WDS and indirectly to RWC, MSI and ABA content.

5 illus, 35 ref

023551   Yuan J;Lan T;Liu J;Wang G;Sun Q;Chen H;Ren J; Zhang J;Sun L (Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Dep, People Hospital of Cangzhou city, Cangzhou city, Cangzhou Hebei 061000, China) : Inhibitory effect of active extract of Polygonum cuspidatum on human colon cancer SW480 cells. Biomed Res 2015, 26(3), 447-51.

This study was conducted to enrich and purify the active constituent in Polygonum cuspidatum, and to study its anticancer activity. Extraction conditions of Polygonum cuspidatum were optimized by investigating the macroporous resin model, flow rate and ethanol concentration. MTT assay and electron microscopy were used to analyze the inhibitory effect of Polygonum cuspidatum extract on human SW480 cells. During the investigation of enrichment and purification process, the optimal conditions for enrichment of Polygonum cuspidatum extract with D101 macroporous resin were identified to be a 3-fold amount of 75% ethanol, and a flow rate of 2 BV/h. Under electron microscope, nuclear morphological changes are seen in SW480 cells treated with Polygonum cuspidatum extract; apoptotic characteristics are significant, and apoptotic bodies are formed eventually. MTT assay results showed that the inhibitory effect of Polygonum cuspidatum extract on SW480 cells increases with the increase of concentration and prolongation of action time within the experimental concentration range, which proves a dose- and time-dependence of action. Polygonum cuspidatum extract has a marked inhibitory effect on human colon cancer SW480 cells.

2 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

023550   Ye Z Q;Meng J L;Wu M;Shao X X;Li C M (Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry Research Station of Hangzhou Bay Wetlands, Fuyang-311 400, China, Email: mengxqi@yahoo.com) : Variations in allelopathic potential among plant species in coastal plant community. Allelopathy J 2016, 37(2), 221-30.

Authors determined the variations in allelopathic potential of plant species in 4-pioneer plant communities (Community Imperata cylindrica, Community Phragmites australis, Community Phacelurus latifolius and Community Solidago canadensis) in coastal area in Cixi City, China. The allelopathic potential of species was also compared among functional groups and linked with species dominance. The results showed that main variation in allelopathic potential existed among the species and functional groups. The strength of allelopathic inhibition differed in selected functional groups: annuals/biennials <62> perennial species, non-clonal species <62> clonal species and Poaceae <60> other families. In contrast, the ranking pattern of species mean importance values in different functional groups was reversed. When all species from the communities are pooled together, allelopathic potential was negatively related to the importance value. In conclusion, although the substantial variations in allelopathic potential of plant species exists, but the species dominance in this community was achieved through functional traits viz., clonality and perennially instead of allelopathy. A trade-off likely exists between traits that promote the dominance and the traits that promote allelopathy.

4 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

023549   Xin F;Pan T (Pharmacy of Chaoyang Central Hospital Dep, , Chaoyang, Liaoning Province, 122000 China) : Effect of Tripterygium wilfordii on LPS-induced acute lung injury and quantitative determination of its active constituents. Biomed Res 2015, 26(3), 599-603.

The objective of the present study is to observe the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Tripterygium wilfordii extract on LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in rats, and to explore its protective mechanism against ALI. And quantitative determination was performed on the extract. 120 rats were randomly divided into normal control group (saline), model group, dexamethasone group (5 mg/kg, ip), and Tripterygium wilfordii extract low-, mediumand high-dose groups (100, 150, 200 mg/kg, ip), n = 20 in each group. The rats were administered for 3 d, 1 h after the last ip administration, ALI model was induced by ip endotoxin (LPS), 6 h later, the rats were sacrificed, BALF WBC count and protein content, nuclear transcription factor (NF-kappaB) p65 expression in lung tissue, levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, interleukin (IL)-10, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as neutrophil myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in each group were observed. Total triterpenoid content in Tripterygium wilfordii extract was determined by UV-V is spectrophotometry with tripterine as the reference. Compared with the control group, in the Tripterygium wilfordii extract medium- and high-dose groups, lung tissue NF-kappaB p65 expressions were (38.03 ± 4.19)% and (30.69 ± 3.99)%, MDA levels were (1.76 ± 0.21) and (1.36 ± 0.12) nmol/mg, TNF-a levels were (263.66 ± 39.65) and (210.78 ± 30.25) μg/L, IL-6 levels were (289.47 ± 99.99) and (226.58 ± 96.25) ng/L, and MPO activities (2.76 ± 0.54) and (2.43 ± 0.42) U/g, all of which were significantly lower (P<60>0.05<126>P<60>0.01) than those of the model group; IL-10 levels were (17.89 ± 3.89) and (17.29 ± 3.68) μg/L, SOD levels were (69.47 ± 9.23) and (73.65 ± 8.12) U/mg, BALF WBC count and protein content in the model group significantly increased (P<60>0.05<126>P<60>0.01); all of which were significantly higher (P<60>0.05<126>P<60>0.01) than those of the model group. Total triterpenoid content in Tripterygium wilfordii extract was 27.379. Tripterygium wilfordii extract can decrease the pulmonary vascular permeability caused by LPS-induced ALI, reduce inflammation exudation, and lower the degree of oxidative stress injury.

5 tables, 14 ref

023548   Wang Y;Ba Y (NO, The First Addliated Hospital of Dalian Medical Univ, Dalian 116044, China) : Studies on the chemical constituents of Radix astragali and their inhibitory effect on HepG₂ proliferation. Biomed Res 2015, 26(3), 393-8.

To analyze the chemical constituents of ethanol extract of Radix Astragali, and to study their inhibitory effect on HepG2 cell line proliferation. Column chromatography, thin-layer chromatography and preparative liquid chromatography were used to extract and isolate compounds, and NMR spectroscopy was used to analyze the structure of the compounds; MTT assay and flow cytometry were used to determine the anticancer effect of the ethanol extract of Radix Astragali. Four compounds were isolated from the ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions of Radix Astragali ethanol extract, which were structurally identified as astragaloside, uridine, 7,2'-dihydroxy-3',4'- dimethoxyisoflavan- 7,2'-dioxo-β-D-glucoside and (3R)-8,2'-dihydroxy-7,4'- dimethoxyisoflavan. MTT assay results showed that HepG2 cell growth was inhibited to varying degrees in each experimental group, and the inhibitory effects exhibited apparent dose- and time-effect relationships, the longer the drug action, the stronger the inhibitory effect; flow cytometry found that 48 h after the action of different concentrations of Radix Astragali ethanol extracts on HepG2 cells, the apoptosis rate of HepG2 cells significantly increased. Within the experimental dose range, Radix Astragali ethanol extract has proliferation inhibitory effect on HepG2 cells.

6 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

023547   Wang L;Chen L;Xu D;Yang C;Shi K;Qian C;Liu J (Ultrasonography Dep, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, HangZhou, China) : Safety and efficacy of radipfrequency ablation with internally cooled electrode for perivascular hepatic malignancy. Biomed Res 2015, 26(3), 485-92.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic safety and efficacy of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) with Internally Cooled Electrode for malignant hepatic tumors; which were in contact with blood vessels. A total of 297 patients with malignant hepatic tumors (358 nodules) who underwent RFA, by means of straight Internally Cooled Electrodes, were enrolled in this study. Seventy-seven of these patients had 79 perivascular nodules, which were situated within 5 mm of the intrahepatic vessels larger than 3 mm in diameter. While 220 patients had 279 non-perivascular nodules, which were more than 5mm away from the intrahepatic vessels with diameter lager than 3mm. The clinical data and outcomes were compared between the two groups. There were no treatment-related deaths, and the complication rates were similar (3.9% vs 2.7%, P<62>0.05) in the two groups. The disease-free 1-,2-, and 3-year survival rates in the perivascular group were 54.3%, 48.8% and 35.5%, respectively while those in the nonperivascular group were 59.7%, 35.4% and 30.7%, respectively (P<62>0.05). There were no significant differences between perivascular and nonperivascular groups in local recurrence rate (22.8% vs 16.1%,P<62>0.05). It can therefore be concluded that percutaneous RFA with Internally Cooled Electrode is a safe and effective treatment for perivascular malignant hepatic tumors.

2 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

023546   Viswanathan K;Priyadharshini M L M;Nirmala K; Raman M;Dhinakar Raj G (Translational Research Platform for Veterinary Biologicals, Centre for Animal Health Studies (CAHS), Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Ani, Chennai-600 051, Email: dhinakarrajh@tanuvas.org.in) : Bactericidal paper trays doped with silver nanoparticles for egg storing applications. Bull Mater Sci 2016, 39(3), 819-26.

In this study, a cost-effective way to deposit the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on paper egg trays was developed, which proved suitable for prolonged storage of table eggs for house-hold use without deterioration of egg quality. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized based on chemical reduction approach and mixed with gelatin-chitosan mixer used as a colloidal stabilizer as well as fixing agent. AgNPs-doped paper egg trays were characterized by TEM, SEM, FTIR, EDX and XRD. AgNPs containing egg trays were tested for its bactericidal effect against commonly found bacteria on egg shells, E. coli, S. aureus, Streptococcus spp and Salmonella spp. Storing of eggs in the AgNPs-deposited paper egg trays improved the shelf-life of the eggs by more than 14 days compared to controls (eggs stored in conventional trays). In conclusion, the developed paper trays possessed strong antimicrobial activity and it could be an effective storage material for eggs.

5 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

023545   Verma K C;Verma S K (Biotechnology Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Punjab-144 402, Email: kcbiochem@gmail.com) : Interaction effect of explants types and phythormones on tissue culture of Jatropha curcad seed embryo. Bioscan 2015, 10(2), 563-6.

Reserves of crude oil are rapidly diminishing and the reliability and security of oil supplies has been of global concern. Regenerated plantlets from embryos were separated and inoculated in MS medium supplemented with different combinations of BAP, Kinetin,IBA and 2,4 D. The results showed that 2,4 D(4.0 mg/L) was found to be more efficient for callus development in petiole(94%) followed in leaf(90%). The best shoot regeneration (11.5 shoots/explants) was observed in MS medium supplemented with IBA (0.4mg/L) and BAP (2.5mg/L). Root induction was successfully obtained (90-100%) in plane MS and MS fortified with auxins. Acclimatization and hardening was quite successful with survival rate of 80%.Developed regeneration protocol gives fair numbers of shoots per explants over existing protocols of jatropha.

1 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

023544   Usharani T R;Sowmya H D;Sowmya S;Sunisha C; Dhamodhar P (Biotechnology Div, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hesaraghatta, Bangalore-560 089, Email: usharanitr@iihr.ernet.in ) : Sonication assisted Agrobacterium transformation of banana cv. Ney Poovan shoot tips with GUS reporter gene. Adv appl Res 2015, 7(2), 85-90.

In the present study, Agrobacterium-mediated transformation was performed with shoot tips of banana cultivar, Ney Poovan (AB). The plant expression vector pBI 121, harboring reporter gene, (β-glucuronidase and plant selection marker, kanamycin, was used for co-cultivation. The apical meristems were sonicated and vacuum infiltered with Agrobacterium and co-cultured on liquid MS basal medium supplemented with 100 μM acetosyringone for 72 h. The explants were then cultured on solid shoot induction medium [SIM-MS salts, B5 vitamins, 3% sucrose, 400 mg L"¹ of cefotaxime and 100 mg L"¹ of kanamycin and 5 mg L"¹ of BAP], which showed a regeneration percentage that ranged from 20% to 40%. Among different time intervals tested, sonication assisted Agrobacterium transformation for 8 min was found to be highly efficient in Ney Poovan with a maximum of 56% GUS positive shoots. The uniform GUS staining of transformed plant confirmed the presence and integration of the GUS gene into the banana genome. Polymerase chain reaction confirmed the presence of 500 bp amplified product of partial GUS gene in transformed plants. Thus an efficient protocol for Agrobacterium- mediated transformation of banana cv Ney Poovan was standardized which may possibly be useful for future studies on genetic modification and development of transgenics using novel genes.

ref

023543   UshaRani C;Priyanka;Srinivasa Rao A (DST Dep of Science and Technology, PRGC (A) Degree College, Kakinada-533 001, Email: usharanimareedy@yahoo.co.in) : Antigungal properties exhibited ny bacteria isolated from agriculturally cultivanle soils and their antagonistic nature towards fungal phytopathogen suppression. Agric Sci Dig 2016, 36(1), 17-23.

Soil samples collected from rhizosphere soil, cultivable field soil, Rhizoplane soil of paddy plants and were used to isolate bacteria by culture methods of which thirty two bacterial cultures were identified with diverse colony characteristics on nutrient agar medium and biochemical characterization. Sixteen bacterial isolates were selected for screening fungal antagonism on PDA and were further tested against Fusarium and Rhizoctonia species. In this study, two Pseudomonas strains (RB15, RB30) and Bacillus cereus (RB13) were cyanogen producers. Both strains of Pseudomonas RB15 and RB30 and Bacillus cereus (RB13) were also siderophore producers. Only three isolates showed chitinolytic activity; Serratia marcesens (RB24), Bacillus cereus (RB13) and Enterobacter cancerogenus (RB17).

4 tables, 18 ref

023542   Thomas S K;George R E;Kunjumon M;Thankamani V I (Biotechnology Dep, Kerala Univ, Karyavattom campus, Thiruvananthapuram-695 581, Email: dr.thankamani@gmail.com) : Phytochemical screening and TLC profile of fruits and flowers of Alstonia venenata R. Br.. Int J pharm Sci Drug Res 2016, 8(2), 117-20.

Alstonia venenata R. Br. belonging to the family Apocynaceae is a tall evergreen shrub distributed throughout Peninsular India. Stem-bark, root-bark, fruits and leaves are used by many tribal communities and also in Ayurveda. The study investigates the phytochemical composition of hexane, butanol, methanol and water extracts of Alstonia venenata fruits and flowers as well as the TLC profile of hexane extracts of fruits and flowers. Quantitative data of the wet and dry weight, yields from different solvent fractions and percentage yields were noted. The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids, saponins, flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compounds from the various extracts. Alkaloids were present in all the fractions tested. Methanol extracts of fruits and flowers showed the presence of major phytoconstituents. TLC profile of hexane extracts of fruits and flowers were developed using anisaldehyde sulphuric acid/ceric sulphate (steroids/terpenoids) and Dragendorff's spray reagents (alkaloids). Petroleum ether: Chloroform: Methanol (5: 4.5: 0.5) showed good resolution for the hexane extracts of fruit and flower when treated with Dragendorff's spray reagent. Petroleum ether: Chloroform (1:1) was best for the hexane exacts of flowers and fruits when sprayed with ceric sulphate spray reagent.

3 illus, 4 tables, 22 ref

023541   Suriyavathana M;Roopavathi I (Biochemistry Dep, Periyar Univ, Periyar Palkalai Nagar, Salem, Tamil Nadu) : Evaluation of antioxidants level in Triticum aestivum. L. J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(5), 18-23.

Antioxidants have been reported to prevent oxidative damage caused by free radical and can be used in cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory diseases. The results indicate that the plant extract has better DPPH scavenging action and reducing power compared to the individual plant extract indicating synergistic and supra additive effect of phytochemicals present in the extract. This present study proves that the plant extracts have considerable antioxidant property and further detailed studies and characterization of these plant extracts can contribute to their medicinal and pharmaceutical applications. The assessment of in vitro antioxidant status of T. aestivum against a broad spectrum of free radical scavengers provide strongly a valid tool that T. aestivum could serve as a natural source of antioxidant defense. Almost all the antioxidants were noted to be significant in counteracting the free radical scavenging activity. The in vitro antioxidant status provides a new insight to assess the hepatoprotective effect of T. aestivum.

7 illus, 19 ref

023540   Suman S;Kumar H (Agricultural Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Dep, Faculty of Basic, Rajendra Agricultural Univ, Pusa-848 125, Email: sugandhsuman@gmail.com) : Micropropagation of banana cv. malbhog. Bioscan 2015, 10(2), 647-50.

Malbhog, one of the most important and delicious local cultivar of banana in Bihar, is on verge of becoming extinct because of panama wilt and non-availability of disease free quality propagules. The culture of shoot tips taken from suckers on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with different concentrations and combinations of Indole acetic acid (IAA) and Benzyl amino purine (BAP) resulted in differentiation of adventitious shoots. The maximum differentiation of shoots (92.05%) was observed on MS medium with 0.57 μM IAA and 17.74 μM BAP. The number of shoots per culture was 16.75. The subculture of differentiated shoots on the same medium resulted in further differentiation (91.97%) of more than 15 shoots per culture. The in vitro developed shoots showed 100% rooting on MS medium supplemented with 4.92 μM Indole butyric acid (IBA). The plantlets were acclimatized and field transferred. A suitable and efficient protocol for micropropagation of Malbhog cultivar of banana was developed.

1 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

023539   Sriuttha M;Wittayanarakul K (Natural Resource and Environmental Management Dep, Faculty of Applied, KhonKaen Univ, Nongkhai Campus, Nongkhai 43000, Thailand) : Comparison of thermodynamics and kinetics of malachite green adsorption onto chitin and chitosan. Asian J Chem 2015, 27(11), 4213-15.

The adsorption of Malachite green by chitin and chitosan is investigated and compared by the adsorption method. The results shows that the Langmuir isotherm can well described the Malachite green adsorption for the chitin and chitosan. The maximum quantities of the Malachite green adsorption by the chitin and chitosan are 97.09 and 166.67 mg/g, respectively, indicating that the chitosan has more effective than the chitin two times approximately. The thermodynamic data also suggests that the chitosan is more favourable than the chitin.

4 tables, 6 ref

023538   Sliwinska-Wilczewska S;Pniewski F;Latala A (Univ of Gdansk, Institute of Oceanography, Marine Ecosystems Functioning Dep, Av. Pilsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland, Email: ocessle@ug.edu.pl) : Allelopathic interactions between Synechococcus sp. and Nodularia spumigena under different light conditions. Allelopathy J 2016, 37(2), 241-52.

The mutual influence of allelopathic compounds on the growth, chlorophyll fluorescence and photosynthesis of cyanobacteria Synechococcus sp. and Nodularia spumigena by single and repeated addition of cell-free filtrate (CFF) of cyanobacterial cultures grown under different light conditions was investigated. The effects on growth, fluorescence parameter (F_v/F_m) and the photosynthetic parameter (P_m) of N. spumigena were amplified by repeated filtrate additions of Synechococcus CFF compared to a single addition. But N. spumigena CFF had no allelopathic effects on Synechococcus sp. The picocyanobacterium decreased the coexisting filamentous, bloom forming cyanobacterium and the production of allelopathic substances increased with light intensity.

4 illus, 43 ref

023537   Singh A K;Nanda P;Singh A;Singh B (Biotech Dep, Faculty of Life Sci. and Tech., Shri Venkateswara, Amroha, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Email: ashwani307@gmail.com) : Genetic diversity analysis in turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) based on SSR markers. J biol Engng Res Rev 2015, 2(1), 20-24.

Turmeric being an economically important crop due to its use in the food, ayurvedic medicine and pharmaceutical industries, attracts the attention in many areas of research work. In the current study, genetic diversity of 10 turmeric genotype was investigated using SSR primers. DNA was extracted from young leaves using modified CTAB method. The banding pattern was analyzed using UPGMA based Jaccard's similarity coefficient. The results revealed that SSR markers showed distinct polymorphism among the genotypes. The dendrogram revealed 2 major distinct clusters, which showed a significant genetic variation ranging between 0.60 and 0.98 among the different genotypes. Based on this study, the larger range of similarity values for related cultivars using SSR provide a tool for the assessment of genetic diversity and relationships. The highest PIC value of 0.98 for the SSR loci was associated with higher level of polymorphism. The findings distinctly identified and characterized 10 genotypes using 10 different SSR markers which can be used in background selections during backcross breeding programs.

2 illus, 4 tables, 19 ref

023536   Shi Y;Shen G;Fang H;Xu C;Hu S (Obstetrics and Gynecology Dep, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical Univ, Hefei, 230001, China) : Method for quantitative determination of matrine in Sophora alopecur-oides L. and its inhibitory effect on breast cancer MCF-7 cell proliferation. Biomed Res 2015, 26(3), 461-6.

This is to explore the method for quantitative determination of active constituent in Sophora alopecuroides L. and its anti-cancer activity. Method for quantitative determination of matrine in Sophora alopecuroides L. is established using HPLC with CLC-phenyl column, mobile phase of acetonitrile-anhydrous ethanol-3% phosphoric acid solution (80:10:10), detection wavelength of 220 nm and flow rate of 1.0 mL.min^-1. Breast cancer MCF-7 cells are cultured by routine method. Inhibitory effect of matrine on breast cancer MCF-7 cell proliferation is determined by MTT assay. Flow cytometry is used to analyze the changes in cell cycle after treatment, and record percentages of Bax and Bcl-2 positive cells. 48 h after treatment with test concentrations of matrine, cell cycle of MCF-7 cells are evidently altered. With the addition of matrine, S phase MCF-7 cells are markedly reduced, and G0/G1 phase cells markedly increase, while G2/M phase cells do not change much. Flow cytometry results show that the test concentrations of matrine can effectively inhibit the viability of MCF-7 cells, and promote their apoptosis. Different concentrations of matrine can all somewhat increase the positive rate of Bax expression, and the effect exhibits an increasing trend with increasing concentration. Bcl-2 expressions of treatment groups are all evidently lower than the control group, showing a negative correlation. HPLC method is reliable and accurate in determining alkaloids in Sophora alopecuroides L., and matrine in Sophora alopecuroides L. can effectively inhibit the proliferation of breast cancer MCF-7 cells.

1 illus, 4 tables, 15 ref

023535   She L Y;Tew L S;Chew C H (Biomedical Science Dep, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Univ, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak, Malaysia) : Occurrence of blaCTXM-2, blaSHV, blaTEM genes in ESBL-producing bacteria from retail sausages in Kampar, Malaysia. Biomed Res 2015, 26(3), 456-60.

Overuse of antibiotics in the prevention and treatment of diseases among humans and livestock has led to the emergence of multi-antibiotics resistant bacteria worldwide. This includes bacteria which produce the enzymes extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs). This study reports the presence of β-lactamases-producing bacteria (35.7%) and ESBL-producing bacteria (21.4%) from retail sausages in Kampar, Malaysia and the detection of bla_CTXM-2 (60%), bla_TEM (40%) and blaSHV (20%) genes, but not bla_CTXM-1 and bla_CTXM-9 genes in these isolates. The bacteria harboring blaCTXM-2 and blaTEM genes were identified as Pseudomonas pneumotropica, whereas the bacteria harboring only bla_SHV gene was identified as Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp. pneumoniae. This is the first report of bla_CTXM-2 in food source in Malaysia.

2 tables, 27 ref