020659   Kader S A (Plant Biology & Plant Biotechnology Dep, Presidency College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu-600 005, Email: sakfri@rediffmail.com) : Occurrence of Caesalpinia ferrea Mart. [=Libidibia ferrea (Mart. extul.) L.P.Queiroz] (Leguminosae) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu- An addition to the flora of Southern India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2015, 39(3-4), 552-4.

Caesalpinia ferrea Mart., an exotic tree of Leguminosae (sub-family Caesalpinioideae) was recently noticed at three locations in Chennai: (i) one big tree inside Omandurar Estate campus, old Secretariat (Rajaji Mandapam), MLA hostel, Chennai; (ii) another big and tall tree in Loyola college, Botany department, Nungambakkam; and (iii) three small trees along the Chennai Beach,Madras High Court. Earlier workers have failed to document this species from Chennai. Therefore, it is the first report on the distribution of this species in Tamil Nadu and hence it is a new record to the flora of Tamil Nadu and perhaps to southern India. Data on taxonomical characters were collected and complete botanical description along with photographs and economic importance are provided.

5 ref

020658   Jogaiah S;Upadhyay A;Maske S R;Shinde M P (Fruit Crops Div, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hesaraghatta Lake Post, Bengaluru-560 089, Email: satilata@gmail.com) : Protocol for protein extraction from recalcitrant tissues of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) for proteome analysis. Indian J Biotechnol 2015, 14(4), 532-9.

The difficulty in obtaining high quality proteins from recalcitrant plant species like grape (Vitis vinifera L.) is mainly due to low concentration of proteins, high activity of proteases and high level of interfering compounds, such as, pigments, polyphenols, tannins, fiavonoids etc. Utilization of 2-dimentional electrophoresis (2DE) technique in proteome analysis largely depends on more efficient and optimized preparation of samples, which is regarded as one of the most important step for obtaining reliable information on proteins. In the present study, four different previously published protein extraction protocols and commercial protein extraction kits were compared to identify the most suitable protocol for protein extraction from different grape tissues, such as, leaves, buds, clusters and berries. Of the five protocols compared, resolution of protein in 1st dimension and 2nd dimension gel was improved with modified trichloro acetic acid/acetone precipitation with phenol extraction method. This method also yielded higher protein concentration, greater spot resolution with minimal streaking on 2DE gels of grape leaf protein. The same protocol also yielded higher quality protein from other grape tissues, such as, buds, berries and roots. Thus modified tricholoro acetic acid/acetone precipitation with phenol extraction method will be suitable for proteome analysis of different grapevine tissues.

7 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

020657   Jin X;Zhang S B;Li S M;Liang K;Jia Z Y (Pharmacy Dep, The Suqian First Hospital, Suqian, Jiangsu-223 800, China) : Influence of chitosan nanoparticles as the absorption enhancers on salvianolic acid B in vitro and in vivo evaluation. Pharmacog Mag 2016, 12(45), 57-63.

Salvianolic acid B (SalB) represents the most abundant and bio-active phenolic constituent among the water-soluble compounds of Salvia miltiorrhiza. But the therapeutic potential of SalB has been significantly restricted by its poor absorption. In this study, chitosans (CS) and CS nanoparticles (NPs) with different molecular weights (MWs), which have influence on the absorption of SalB, was also investigated. As a preliminary study, water-soluble CS with various MWs (3, 30, 50, and 100 kDa) was chosen. We investigated the MW-dependent Caco-2 cell layer transport phenomena in vitro of CS and NPs at concentrations (4 μg/ml, w/v). SalB, in presence CS or NPs has no significant toxic effect on Caco-2 cell. As the MW increases, the absorption enhancing effect of CS increases. However, as the MW decreases, the absorption enhancing effect of NPs increases. The AUC _0-∞ of the SalB-100 kDa CS was 4.25 times greater than that of free SalB. And the AUC_0-∞ of the SalB-3 kDa NPs was 16.03 times greater than that of free SalB. CS and NPs with different MWs as the absorption enhancers can promote the absorption of SalB. And the effect on NPs is better than CS.

6 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

020656   Igor U;Viktor T;Sergey S;Larisa B (Odessa National Medical Univ, , Odessa, Ukraine) : Development of burdock leaves dense extract obtaining technology. Pharma Innovation 2016, 5(10), 29-31.

Optimum conditions of extraction have been selected and a technology for producing a thick extract from the leaves of burdock has been developed. The optimum parameters are: extraction with 40% ethyl alcohol in a ratio of raw material - the extractant as 1:7. The yield under the predetermined conditions is more than 25%, the quantitative content of flavonoids - 1.50%. In the future, it is advisable to standardize the resulting extract, which will create the preconditions for expanding the range of sources of raw materials for herbal remedies with anti-inflammatory action.

1 illus, 4 tables, 7 ref

020655   Hasanah A N;Elyani I;Sriwidodo;Muchtaridi; Muhtadi A;Musfiroh I (Pharmaceutical Analysis and Medical Chemistry Dep, Faculty of Pharmacy, Univ Padjadjaran, JI Raya Bandung Sumedang KM 21, 5 Jatinangor, Email: aliya_nh@yahoo.com) : Epichlorohydrin as crosslinking agent for synthesis of carboxymethyl cellulose sodium (Na-CMC) as pharmaceutical excipient from water hyacinth (Eichorrnia crassipes L.). Int J chem Sci 2015, 13(3), 1227-37.

Water hyacinth is a plant, which contain high cellulose concentration that potential to be used as raw material for carboxymethylcellulose sodium. This study was conducted to observed the influence of crosslinker epichlorohydrin to the value of water holding capacity (WHC) and oil holding capacity (OHC) of carboxymethyl cellulose sodium synthesized from water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solm.). Research conducted through α-cellulose isolation, synthesis of Na-CMC, crosslinking Na-CMC, and characterization. The results showed α-cellulose yield of 26.334% and Na-CMC Crosslink 150%. Physical quality evaluation of Na-CMC synthesized results and Na-CMC crosslink shows the most effective crosslink is in comparison 1:10. The value of WHC and OHC from Na-CMC, non crosslink Na-CMC and crosslink Na-CMC consecutively are 4.24 g/g and 4.39 g/g, 4.415 g/g and 3.03 g/g, 5.68 g/g and 2.87 g/g. Based on the study, epichlorohydrin can be used as a crosslinker in synthesis of Na-CMC from cellulose of water hyacinth for pharmaceutical application.

4 tables, 20 ref

020654   Hadif W M;Rahim S A;Sahid I;Rahman A;Ibrahim I (School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Univ Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia, Email: waqeed99m@yahoo.com) : Influence of chromium metal on chlorophyll content in leaves of paddy Oryza sativa L. Int J chem Sci 2015, 13(3), 1238-52.

The aim of the procedure Undertaken in 2014 was to calculate the concentration of Chlorophyll a, Chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll (a and b) and Chlorophyll (a/b) ratio in five ages (17, 47, 77, 107, 145) days from planting date, in leaf of Paddy that's was grown in three sites has different concentration of Chromium., two fields (field 1 and 2) near the ultrabasic soil are located in Ranau, Sabah, and the other field (Field 3) taken as control is at the UK.M experimental plot Paddy field in peninsular of Malaysia for the year 2014. The plant species used in the present investigation is Sarwak merah. The intention was to evaluate the effects of Chromium in conjunction with the relative age of the plant. The output parameter were sensitive to increase the Chromium concentration and age of paddy plant, the result showed significant differences in sites and age of Paddy plant, The most dramatic effect on both types of Chlorophyll, a and b and by extension therefore, total Chlorophyll was at the Ranau sites, which has high levels of Chromium specially Ranau field 1. While the lowest effects were recorded at the UKM experimental plot Paddy field in peninsular of Malaysia. Chlorophyll a, Chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll (a and b) declined progressively with increasing concentrations of chromium and age of Paddy plant, while the Chlorophyll (a/b) ratio was increased slightly with increasing chromium concentration and age of plant also.

5 illus, 6 tables, 35 ref

020653   Grewal S;Goel S (National Research Centre on Plant Biotechnology, Pusa Campus, New Delhi-110 012, Email: soniagoeliari@gmail.com) : Current research status and future challenges to wheat production in India. Indian J Biotechnol 2015, 14(4), 445-54.

Wheat is a dominant crop in temperate countries and is being used as human food and livestock feed. The success of wheat depends partly on its adaptability and high yield potential, and also on the gluten protein fraction, which confers the visco-elastic properties that allows its dough to be processed into bread, pasta, noodles and other food products. In terms of human diet, it contributes nutritional factors, beneficial phytochemicals and dietary fibre components. The present review deals with current and future concerns that include sustaining the wheat production and quality with reduced inputs of agrochemicals, and developing lines with enhanced quality for specific end-uses, notably for biofuels and human nutrition.

1 illus, 3 tables, 53 ref

020652   Goyal A K;Sen A (Molecular Cytogenetics Lab, Botany Dep, Univ of North Bengal, Siliguri-734 013, Email: senarnab_nbu@hotmail.com) : Phylogenetic relationships among accessions of bamboos encountered in North Bengal, India based RAPD and ISSR markers. Indian J Biotechnol 2015, 14(4), 495-503.

Bamboo is a nature's wonderful gift associated with the rural people since ages. In the present study, genetic relationships among the 29 accessions of bamboo using RAPD and ISSR markers were accessed. The RAPD decamers resulted in 326 loci ranging 187-1875 bp, of which only two were monomorphic. The percentage of polymorphism was found to 99.39%. Dendrogram showed that the most of Bambusa species were close to each other, while the four accessions of Dendrocalamus and two accessions of Drepanostachyum were distantly placed from each other. Based on the similarity indices, being varieties of the same species, B. vulgaris, 'Vittata' and 'Wamin'; B. multiplex, 'Alphonse-Karr' and 'Rivierorum', formed a cluster sharing a node at 88.3% and 91.1%, respectively. The ISSR primers produced 244 amplified bands, of which all were polymorphic (band size 137-2017 bp). The dendrogram was similar to RAPD analysis. Dendrogram based on the combined data sets of RAPD and ISSR showed considerable similarity with that obtained from individual RAPD and ISSR, except that in both the individual analysis, three accessions were segregated from the cluster and evolved as independent distinct clade, B. pallida being common. In the combined analysis, only B. pallida was found to diversify from the main clade.

8 illus, 3 tables, 31 ref

020651   Driss F;Jemli S;Jaoua S (Lab of Protection and Improvement of Plants, Univ of Sfax, 3018, Tunisia, Email: fatma.driss@gmail.com) : Polymorphic study of chitinase catalytic domains from Bacillus thuringiensis isolates. Indian J Biotechnol 2015, 14(4), 476-81.

The coding regions of the chitinase catalytic domains (CDs) from eight Bacillus thuringiensis isolates from Tunisian soil were cloned and sequenced. The cloned sequences consist of 255 nucleotides encoding amino acid fragments of 85 residues. Nucleotide and, amino acid sequences analysis showed the novelty of two of them and the identity of six to that of Chi255 chitinase from B. thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki BUPM255 taken as reference. In fact, the two CDs coding regions CDchiA85 and CDchiA173, obtained from isolates BUPM85 and BUPM173, respectively, present the highest identity of 99% to 26 published chitinases from B. thuringiensis and B. cereus. Indeed, two nucleotide transversions of G to T and of A to C, occurring at positions 156 and 109 of CDchiA85 and CDchiA173, respectively caused substitutions at the amino acid sequence level. They are mutation E192D in the CD of chitinase ChiA85 and mutation F177V in that of ChiA173. The occurrence of changes at these positions generates polymorphisms that, obviously, do not occur at the highly conserved amino acids reported to be essential for chitin hydrolysis. Insights on the correlation of this polymorphism with the corresponding chitinases were brought by means of molecular modelling. We supposed that while the polymorphism E192D could have indirect effect on the catalytic activity of the corresponding chitinase, the residue valine brought by the polymorphism F177V could interact with the aromatic residue W210 located between the most important catalytic amino acids (D209 & E211); thereby suggesting its effect on catalysis. Therefore, the study taken into account the overall folding of the subject chitinases is intended for further work to ensure the relationship.

4 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

020650   Doyinsola I;Adedayo A;Olutayo O;Michael A; Abayomi O;Moses O;Thomas S (Chemistry Advanced Lab, Sheda Science and Technology Complex, Sheda-Abuja, FCT, Nigeria, Email: tayowumi_05@yahoo.co.uk) : Phytochemical, antioxidant and cytotoxicity properties of Anchomanes difformis (Bl.) Engl. Tuber extract. Int J pure appl Chem 2015, 10(2-3), 65-9.

During the past two decades, there has been an increasing interest in the investigation of different extracts obtained from traditional medicinal plants as potential sources of potent drugs or supplements for the management of human and animal health. The phytochemical, antioxidant and cytotoxicity of the extracts of Anchomanes difformis tuber were examined. The proximate analysis of the tuber was found to contain carbohydrates 63.64%, protein 1.31%, fat 1.5%, crude fibre content 12.3%, ash content 6.75% and moisture content 14.5%. The two extracts tested negative for saponins, resins, terpenoids, phenols, balsam, anthracene, anthraquinone, while the ethanol extract tested positive for alkaloids, tannins, sterols, phlobatannins and volatile oils. The antioxidant activity LC₅₀ of 2.64 mg/ml, 1.82 mg/ml and 0.14 mg/ml were recorded for the hexane, ethanol extracts and Vitamin C respectively. The cytotoxicity result showed that both extracts exhibited LC₅₀ of less than 1000 mg/ml with aid of Finney computer programming.

1 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref

020649   Debnath G;Dutta S;Saha A K;Das P (Mycology and Plant Pathology Lab, Botany Dep, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar-799 022, Email: gopaldn88@gmail.com) : Green synthesis, characterization and antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles (Agnps) from grass leaf extract Paspalum conjugatum P.J. Berguis. J mycopathol Res 2016, 54(3), 371-6.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles by using grass leaf extract Paspalum conjugatum as a bioreductant. Characterizations of silver nanoparticles were done by using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. UV-visible studies indicated the surface Plasmon resonance at 442 nm confirmed the formation of silver nanoparticles. AFM revealed spherical nanoparticles ranging from 12-30 nm in size. FTIR analysis revealed that functional groups hydroxyl ("OH), amine (N-H) groups and the protein component in the form of enzyme nitrate reductase produced by grass leaf extract are mainly involved in reduction of Ag+ ions to AgO nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticle showed the antibacterial activity against E. coli (MTCC 40), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC 424) gram negative and Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 619), Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 96) gram positive bacteria. Green synthesized silver nanoparticles may play a major role in the field of biocontrol of plant diseases.

5 illus, 1 table, 40 ref

020648   David M;Karekalammanavar G (Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Molecular Biology, PG Studi, Karnatak Univ, Dharwad, Karnataka, Email: mdavid.kud@gmail.com) : Spectrographic analysis and In vitro study of antibacterial, anticancer activity of aqueous ethanolic fruit extract of Carissa carandas L.. J advd scient Res 2015, 6(3), 10-13.

Fruits are the richest source of nutrients and minerals. Carissa carandas belongs to the Apocynaceae family and widely spread throughout India. Spectrographic methods are most reliable, for the analysis of phytochemicals. Carissa carandas fruits are plentiful sources of phytochemicals and possessing beneficial biological activities. The present work was first to focus on analysing of such phytochemicals in aqueous ethanolic fruit extract (AEE) using UV-Visible and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The fingerprint of the UV-spectra showed maximum absorption peak at 270 nm and FTIR helps in the recognition of functional groups and assignments. Furthermore, in-vitro studies showed that AEE possesses lowest MIC value 0.3125 mg/ml and induces cytotoxicity at 800μg/mL on HeLa cancer cells. The study concludes that, regular intake of fruits in daily diet suggested with reduced risks of infectious diseases and cancer.

3 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

020647   Darah I;Taufiq M M J;Lim S H (NO, Industrial Biotechnology Research Lab, School of Biological Sciences, Univ Sains Malaysia) : Pectinase production by Aspergillus niger LFP-1 using pomelo peels as substrate: An optimization study using shallow tray system. Indian J Biotechnol 2015, 14(4), 552-8.

A local fungal isolate Aspergillus niger LFP-1 produced high level of pectinase activity when cultivated in a plastic shallow tray (15.0x15.0x15.0 CM³) system using pomelo peels as a substrate. The highest pectinase production of 78.89 U/g substrate and 3.36 mg glucosamine/g substrate of fungal growth were obtained on the 6 d of cultivation after using all the improved cultural conditions that consisted of 40 g of pomelo peel or equivalent to 0.6 cm of substrate thickness (particle size of 0.75 mm, moisture content of 1:1 ratio) with the addition of inoculums size of 1 x10⁸ spores/mL, once at every 48 h of mixing frequency and cultivation at room temperature (30±2°C). After improvement of cultural condition, an increment of 51.16% of pectinase production and 8.74% of fungal growth was observed compared to the cultural condition prior to improvement. The results showed that a plastic shallow tray system was suitable for obtaining highest enzyme production in solid state fermentation (SSF), especially in case of the acidic based substrate.

6 illus, 23 ref

020646   Bhati J;Chandrasekaran H;Suresh Chand (School of BioSciences and Biotechnology, Banasthali Vidyapeeth, Rajasthan-304 022, Email: singh.jyotika@gmail.com) : In silico EST mining of Fabaceae species. Indian J Biotechnol 2015, 14(4), 461-8.

The Fabaceae family, one of the most extensively studied plant lectin families, has received increasing attention for the remarkable property of fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere. Legumes are one of a few plant families with extensive genomic data available in multiple species. The unprecedented complexity and impending completeness of these data create opportunities for new approaches to discovery. In the present study, 24,749 ESTs of 5 Fabaceae species were clustered into unigenes contigs and compared with Medicago truncatula gene indices. Almost all the unigenes of Fabaceae species showed high similarity with Medicago genes, except those of Lens culinaris where only 95% of unigenes were found similar. A total of 315 SSRs were identified in the unigenes. Functional annotation of unigenes showed that the majority of the genes are present in metabolism and energy functional classes. Given the progress in the development of genomics in the model legume M. truncatula, there is a major scientific opportunity to translate the genomic advances from this species to other less studied legumes. This would be helpful for genomics as well as evolutional studies, and DNA markers developed can be used for mapping, tagging and cloning of important trait specific genes in Fabaceae.

4 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

020645   Aziz S;Saha K;Sultana N;Nur H P;Khan M;Ahmed S (Chemical Research Div, BCSIR Lab, Dhaka, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhaka-1205, Email: shaziz2408@yahoo.com) : Comparative studies on the fatty acid composition of petroleum ether extract of leaves and flowers of Catharanthus roseus available in Bangladesh by GC-MS analysis. Int J chem Sci 2015, 13(2), 955-62.

Catharanthus roseus is one of the medicinally important plants belonging to the family of Appocyanaceae. It has been used extensively by ayurvedic practitioner to treat dermatitis, abscesses, eczema, psoriasis, sores, corns, ringworm, scabies, epilapsy, malaria, heart tonics and tumor. It has several commercially valuable secondary metabolites including the anticancer agent, vincristine, vinblastine and the hypertension drugs ajmalicine and serpentine. The fatty acid compositions of the petroleum ether extract of leaves and flowers of Catharanthus roseus grown in Bangaladesh were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrophotometer. 5 compounds were identified from the extract of leaves (24.18%) and 5 compounds were identified from extract of flowers (55.53%) of Catharanthus roseus. In the case of leaves the main fatty acid was methyl elaidate (8.57%) and in the case of flowers, it was methyl palmitate (13.13%), respectively.

2 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

020644   Attanayake A P;Jayatilaka K A P W;Pathirana C;Mudduwa L K B (Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Medicine, Univ of Ruhuna, Karapitiya, Galle, Sri Lanka, Email: anoja715@yahoo.com) : Toxicological investigation of Spondias pinnata (Linn. F.) Kurz. (Family: Anacardiaceae) bark extract in wistar rats. Int J Green Pharm 2015, 9(1), 26-31.

The aim was to investigate acute and subchronic toxicity of the aqueous bark extract of S. pinnata in healthy male Wistar rats. Wistar rats were administered the S. pinnata bark extract (0.25-2.00 g/kg) and observed for 14 days. Subchronic dose toxicity was evaluated by daily administration of the plant extract (1.00 g/kg; optimum effective antihyperglycaemic dose in diabetic rats) to healthy Wistar rats for 30 days. The extract neither produced significant changes in the consumption of food and intake of water nor affected biochemical parameters (serum lipid profile and activities of liver enzymes), hematological parameters (full blood count) and histopathology in healthy rats (P <62> 0.05). The results revealed that S. pinnata extract at a dose of 1.00 g/kg was found to be toxicologically safe as a potent antihyperglycemic agent in Wistar rats.

4 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

020643   Arun Prabhu S;Kalaikannan A;Elango A; Doraisamy K A;Santhi D (Livestock Products Technology Dep, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal, Email: drdshanthi@tanuvas.org.in) : Garlic essential oil as a natural antioxidant in edible coating of enrobed chicken meat balls. J Envir Biosci 2015, 29(2), 483-6.

Enrobed chicken meat balls were prepared with the objective of incorporating garlic essential oil (GO) as a natural antioxidant in the edible coating and assessing the physico-chemical and sensory properties. Emulsion based chicken meat balls were enrobed with cornflakes, where beaten whole-egg was applied as an inner edible coating in which the GO was blended at 0.05%, 0.10% and 0.15% levels along with a control. The product pH before and after frying, percentage of enrobing and frying loss did not differ significantly among the treatments. The antioxidant efficacy as assessed by the DPPH (diphenylpicrylhydrazyl) scavenging activity of GO in product was significantly (P ≤ 0.01) higher at 0.10% and 0.15% levels. In the sensory evaluation based on an eight point hedonic scale there was no significant difference in the appearance, texture, crispiness, juiciness and mouth coating of the chicken meat balls among the treatments. The flavour and overall acceptability scores were significantly (P ≤ 0.01) lower for the 0.15% GO treatment wherein those of other treatments were comparable with that of control. Hence from the above results it could be concluded that GO might be added as a natural antioxidant in the edible coating of enrobed chicken meat balls up to 0.10% level without affecting the physico-chemical and the sensory properties with good consumer acceptability.

4 tables, 14 ref

020642   Anuradha T;Kumar K K;Balasubramanian P (Biotechnology Div, National Research Centre for Citrus (NRCC), Amravati Road, Nagpur-44 010, Email: tanuradha.anu@gmail.com) : Cyclic somatic embryogenesis of elite Indian cassava variety H-226. Indian J Biotechnol 2015, 14(4), 559-65.

A method to induce high frequency somatic embryogenesis was investigated in elite Indian cassava variety H-226. Highest (66.77%) primary somatic embryogenesis was obtained from immature leaf lobes with Picloram 12 mg L^-1 with slight modification of MS medium components with B5 vitamins and 3% maltose (SEIM; somatic embryo induction medium). The same medium provided the highest (80%) secondary embryogenesis using somatic cotyledons as explants. Thus, a two-step medium sequence was developed for efficient regeneration of somatic embryos. Primary and somatic embryos matured in somatic embryo maturation medium (SEMM; MS basal medium with 0.2 mg L^-1 BAP and 0.01 mg L^-1 NAA) developed normal shoot and roots in regeneration medium (RGM; MS basal medium with 0.2 mg L^-1 BAP, 0.01 mg L^-1 NAA and 0.2 mg L^{-1<3D> GA₃}). The maturation and regeneration frequencies were 80 and 85.25%, respectively. Through secondary (cyclic) somatic embryogenesis protocol, the in vitro cassava plants could be obtained in a period of 6 months and it shortened the period of regeneration in cassava right from explant to plantlet development by 4 months. The regenerated cassava plantlets were morphologically normal and acclimatized in the field with a survival rate of 80%. The present regeneration protocol has immense potential in developing transgenic cassava resistant to deadly cassava mosaic virus (CMV) and for improvement of other economically important traits in cassava.

5 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

020641   Alshamsi H A H;Sahib I G (Chemistry Dep, College of Education, Univ of Al-Qadisiya, Diwaniya, P.O. Box 88, Republic of Iraq, Email: hasanchem70@gmail.com) : Photo-ozonolysis of azure B, C and methylene blue dyes: Optimization and kinetic study. Int J chem Sci 2015, 13(2), 1039-50.

In this study, photo-ozonolysis has been used as advanced oxidation process for removal of color of dyes. The effect of concentration of dye, temperature, pH, flow rate of gas and light intensity has been studied. A complete removal has been achieved in a somewhat short period alternatively (60 min). The maximum removal of color adopted of high pH and temperature. The results have been shown that the rate of removal decreases with the increase of initial dye concentration, also it is found that the ratio of removal increases with increase of temperature. Moreover, one can notice from the results that with the increase of air flow rate and incident light intensity, the ratio of removal increases for all days used. The chemical oxygen demand (COD) was also studied in different conditions. The ratio of COD removal associates positively with the ratio of color removal for all dyes. The decolonization reaction was found to follow first order kinetics with respect to the dye concentration.

13 illus, 17 ref

019425   Zhao J;Wang J;Yang Y;Li X;Sun C (College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural Univ, Changchun, 130 118, China, Email: jlndzjing@126.com) : In vitro assessment of probiotic properties of lactic acid bacteria isolated from vaginas of healthy cows. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(3), 355-9.

The present study was conducted to isolate lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from vaginas of cows and evaluate their properties as probiotics. Forty-seven LAB strains were isolated from the vagina of cows using MRS agar and then their antibacterial effects were evaluated using Oxford cup method. Four strains (LAB1, LAB3, LAB5 and LAB9) demonstrating antibacterial activity were identified as Weissella confusa, Enterococcus hirae, Leuconostoc lactis and Ilyobacter polytropus, respectively. The results showed that the rank of hydrophobicity and adherence ability from largest to smallest was LAB9, LAB5, LAB3 and LAB1, respectively. Results of different combinations of the four LAB strains showed that LAB1+LAB3 expressed higher adherence ability than other combinations (p≤0.05); and LAB1+LAB9 had higher antibacterial activity than other combinations(p≤0.05). Results of the present study provide essential information for developing probiotic product to prevent and treat reproductive tract infections of cows.

3 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

019424   Zawadzka K;Kisielewska A;Piwonski I;Kadziola K;Felczak A;Rozalska S;Wronska N;Lisowska K (Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology Dep, Lodz Univ, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Banacha 12/16, 90-237 Lodz, Poland, Email: katalis@biol.uni.lodz.pl) : Mechanisms of antibacterial activity and stability of silver nanoparticles grown on magnetron sputtered TiO₂ coatings. Bull Mater Sci 2016, 39(1), 57-68.

Nanomaterials with high stability and efficient antibacterial activity are of considerable interest. The preparation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on titania coatings and their effective antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 were reported. Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) coatings with AgNPs were prepared on Si wafers using the reactive magnetron sputtering method. The surface topography of AgNPs/TiO₂ coatings imaged using scanning electron microscopy revealed that the size and surface density of AgNPs grown by the photoreduction of silver ions were dependent on the concentration of AgNO₃ in the primary solution and the time of TiO₂ exposure to UV illumination. Evaluation of the antimicrobial properties and surface analysis before and after the biological test of AgNPs/TiO₂ coatings indicates their high antimicrobial stability and durability. Furthermore, the interdependence between the concentration of released silver and bacterial growth inhibition was demonstrated. In addition, direct contact killing and released silver-mediated killing have been proposed as a bactericidal mechanism of action of tested coatings with AgNPs.

3 illus, 7 tables, 30 ref

019423   Yang J X;Liu G Y;Lou J;Wang H;Li L M;Hu Q F; Ye Y Q (Key Laboratory of Chemistry in Ethnic Medicinal Resources, State Ethnic Affairs Commission & Ministry of Education, Yunnan Minzu, P.R. China, Email: yey-qing@163.com) : New cytotoxic prenylated chalcone from Desmodium renifolium. Asian J Chem 2015, 27(7), 2733-4.

A new prenylated chalcone, 2',5-dihydroxy-4,4'-dimethoxy-3-prenyl-chalcone (1), was isolated from whole Desmodium renifolium plants. Its structure was determined by spectroscopic methods including 1D and 2D NMR. Compound 1 was evaluated for its cytotoxicity using five tumor cell lines ((NB4, A549, SHSY5Y, PC3 and MCF7). It exhibited cytotoxicity against NB4 and MCF7 cell with IC₅₀ values of 5.8 and 6.9 μM, respectively.

2 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

019422   Vijaya Kumari K M;Rajan R K (Silkworm Seed Technology Laboratory, Central Silk Board, Kodathi, Bangalore-560 035, Email: vijjikastala@yahoo.com) : Impact of training on knowledge and adoption levels of Chawki rearing centre owners of Karnataka state. Agric Sci Dig 2015, 35(3), 203-6.

The knowledge, adoption and impact of chawki rearing training has been assessed by using pre-tested structured interview schedule for the study in the Karnataka state commercial Chawki Rearing Centres (CRC). The study revealed that after training CRC owners gained knowledge about loose egg brushing technique for bivoltine hybrids and had awareness about mulberry variety suitable for chawki rearing (V1 and S36). Application of Farmyard manure (FYM) and plant protection (20%) measures had also significant impact after training. In case of pruning, chawki garden maintenance and training of mulberry garden have not given importance. CRC owners gained significant impact on knowledge level of number of feedings. There is a significant improvement in adoption of loose egg brushing (60%). The adoption of chawki rearing technologies especially transportation of chawki worms, more than 95% of the larvae from the CRCs transported before completion of first moult and the impact was very less (20%) on transportation of chawki worms. Extension programmes should have also extended to CRC owners for those who are diluting the chawki rearing concept for better technology adoption and viable system.

2 tables, 14 ref

019421   Ustinova O I;Ustinov Y V (NO, Medical Institute "REAVIZ", 227, Chapaevskaya Str., Samara, 443001, Russian Federation) : Biological activity of fresh-squeezed lemon juice. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2015, 12(3), 2187-92.

The issue of alimentary correction of health by natural foods of plant origin, metabolically relevant to the organism, is the most important for maintaining human health. Fresh-squeezed lemon juice an hour after intake dramatically increases the biological activity of all body systems, especially cardiovascular system, as well as the stomach-pancreas-spleen systems, lungs, large intestine, liver, and gall-bladder. In case of the functional weakness of these systems, use of lemon juice is appropriate.

2 illus, 5 tables, 14 ref

019420   Sugirtha P;Divya R;Yedhukrishnan R;Suganthi K S;Anusha N;Ponnusami V;Rajan K S (School of Chemical & Biotechnology, SASTRA Univ, Thanjavur-613 401, Email: anusha@scbt.sastra.edu) : Green synthesis of magnesium oxide nanoparticles using Brassica oleracea and Punica granatum peels and their anticancer and photocatalytic activity. Asian J Chem 2015, 27(7), 2513-17.

Experiments were carried out on the synthesis of magnesium oxide nanoparticles using the water extract of cauliflower and the water extract of pomegranate peels. The primary particles were of sizes 30-45 and 50-65 nm in the powder synthesized using the water extract of cauliflower and the water extract of pomegranate peels respectively. Polycrystalline powders were obtained when synthesis was carried out using the water extract of pomegranate peels, white crystalline powders were obtained when using the water extract of cauliflower. The green-synthesized magnesium oxide nanoparticles exhibited good anticancer activity, with 31.2 μg/mL being the nanoparticles concentration required for destruction of 50% of HeLa cells. The green-synthesized magnesium oxide nanoparticles were found to possess photocatalytic activity both under UV irradiation and sunlight.

9 illus, 31 ref

019419   Stupin V A;Silina E V;Kolesov D V;Yaminsky I V;Shalygin V S (NO, Pirogov's Russian National Research Medical Univ, Ostrovityanova str, 1 Moscow, 117997, Russia) : Development of a biosensor for the prediction and early detection of cardiovascular diseases based on saliva composition analysis. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2015, 12(3), 1913-22.

The aim of the study was the development of a biosensor for prediction and early detection of diseases, including myocardial infarction, based on the analysis of human saliva composition with implanted biosensor devices. For the implementation of the stated objective a device enabling real-time detection of small concentrations of proteins in specific liquid mediums was developed. An evaluation of biosensor sensitivity was performed experimentally with cardiac marker - C-reactive protein, which demonstrates an increase of concentration in all non-specific inflammatory reactions, including myocardial infarction and other acute cardiovascular accidents. A receptor layer was developed based on monoclonal antibodies, enabling specific binding of C-reactive protein, generating lateral strain in the layer. The feasibility of C-reactive protein detection in fluid flow using microcantilever sensors was demonstrated. To allow the possibility of sensor device implantation into oral cavity for continuous monitoring and early detection of diseases based on human saliva composition, a concept and prototype of microcapsule transducer was developed. The transducer constitutes a microaspirator pump with the feature of operator chamber rinsing, which provides circulation of biological fluid samples in the implanted device.

5 illus, 26 ref

019418   Sirisidthi K;Kosai P;Jiraungkoorskul W (Pathobiology Dep, Faculty of Science, Mahidol Univ, Bangkok-10400, Thailand, Email: wannee.jir@mahidol.ac.th) : Antihyperglycemic activity of Ophiocordyceps sinensis. Indian J agric Res 2015, 49(5), 400-6.

Diabetes mellitus, one of the non-communicable diseases, is still the seriously problem due to leading the causes of death in the developed countries. Therefore it is important to identify novel nutraceuticals or drugs for curing or preventing diabetes because the existing synthetic drugs have several limitations. Traditional medicinal plants and medicinal mushrooms are used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus more than century, but only a few of these have proofed their safe and efficacy. Aim of this review article is focused Ophiocordyceps sinensis one of the edible and medicinal mushrooms used for therapeutic effects and antioxidant activities. It contains several kinds of polysaccharides, proteins, nitrogen compounds, fatty acids, phenolic acids, and isoflavones. Many researches have evaluated that these phytochemical substances have the major impact on diabetes mellitus. This review focuses on the antihyperglycemic activity of this mushroom and clears that it has the potential to be considered as a candidate for preparing the new treatment of diabetes mellitus.

^iia1 table, 84 ref

019417   Shevko V M;Karataeva G E;Serzhanov G M; Badikova A D;Abzhanova A S (NO, South Kazakhstan State Univ named after M. Auezov, Kazakhstan, 160012, Shymkent, Tauke Khan avenue, 5) : Complex processing tailings of the Balkhash concentrating factory. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2015, 12(3), 2411-19.

At flotation concentration of copper ores the tailings are formed, which contain both nonferrous metals and a significant amount of silicon and iron. The nonferrous metals from the tailings can be taken by flotation or leaching; but the silicon and iron is used irrationally as a backfilling material in mined-out space. The work purpose was the development of a complex technology of processing the Balkhash concentrating factory's tailings (Kazakhstan) with production of a collective polymetallic concentrate and ferroalloys. The research has been fulfilled by a method of thermodynamic modelling using the software package HSC-5.1 (Outokumpy), a method of rototable experiment planning with regard to the chloride sublimation roasting of the Balkhash concentrating factory's (BCF) tailings (0.27-0.39% of Cu; 0,54-2.03% of Zn; 0.13-0.5% of Pb; 12.35-22.73% of Fe; 7.04-13.09% of ¥…I; 0.3-1.48% of MgI; 6.2-11.71% of Al₂O₃; 0.02-0.011% of Mo; 0.04-0.07% of As; 38.49-57.99% of SiO2; 0.41-0.58% of Na; 0.61-0.74% of K; 0.8-1.3% of S) and electrosmelting cinders after the roasting. It is found, that copper is extracted from the flotation tails by chloride sublimation worse, than zinc and lead. For limitation of iron chloridosublimation it is necessary to carry out the process at 7-fold oxygen excess and 3-fold CaCl₂ one. High degree of nonferrous metals' chloridosublimation (80- 89% of Cu, 95-99% of Zn, <62> 99% of Pb) and low degree of iron chloridosublimation (1- 1.23% of Fe) is observed at 1140-1200°C during 39-60 min and the surplus of CaCl₂ in 3,2 times. Electrosmelting the cinders of the chloride sublimation roasting of the Balkhash concentrating factory's (BCF) flotation tailings in a mix with coke and quartzite allows to produce a ferroalloy with silicon content of 28-63% (at extraction in the ferroalloy of 80- 87.3% of silicon). Ferrosilicon of a grade of FS50 is formed at the electrosmelting a charge containing 11% of steel cuttings, 20% of quartzite from the ore mass and 126-133% of coke from a theoretically required quantity for the silicon and iron reduction. Ferrosilicon of a grade of FS45 is produced at electrosmelting the cinders in the presence of 20% of quartzite, 6-11% of steel cuttings and 100-106% of coke.

7 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

019416   Shazzo A Y;Krasina I B (NO, "The Kuban State Technological Univ", 2, Moskovskaya Street, Krasnodar, 350072, Russia) : Carbohydrate-amylase complex of by-products of rice grain processing. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2015, 12(3), 2303-7.

The results of studying the carbohydrate-amylase complex of by-products of processing rice grain have been presented. The composition and the content of carbohydrates in the studied products have been determined. The studies have shown that attacks of starch by exogenous α-amylase in various by-products are not identical. Starch of immature grains of rice, grits of rice, and broken rice are most available to the action of this ferment. Studying activity of amylolytic enzymes in the products of processing rice grains showed that their effect was insignificant, while the highest activity of the amylase was observed in immature grains of rice. Studying the physico-chemical properties of the carbohydrate-amylase complex of by-products of grain rice processing showed that they contained amylolytic enzymes with high enzymatic activity. High water absorption ability of starch that is a part of by-products of rice processing, and its availability to the action of exogenous amylases make it possible to use these products for intensifying the biochemical processes in bread production.

4 tables, 16 ref

019415   Sharma P;Madhan Mohan T (North Eastern Region Biotechnology Programme Management Cell (A Progra, Government of India), A-258 First Floor, Defence Colony, New Delhi-110 024, Email: pawan.nerbpmc@dpt.nic.in) : Role of DBT in promoting biotechnology-based development in North East India. Curr Sci 2016, 110(4), 562-72.

Since 2009-2010, DBT has been making concerted effort towards development of North Eastern Region (NER) of India. Under its Twinning Programme, <62>300 collaborative research projects are currently underway, between NER institutions and those from rest of the country. Advanced diagnostic infrastructure established in medical colleges/institutions in NER has enhanced quality of disease diagnosis and patient care. Network projects on organic farming, Jhum cultivation, and value addition on cash crops and animal products have benefited the farmers of NER. Centres/Units of Excellence and Biotech Hubs, established across NER, are promoting quality research, education and training in biosciences. DBT awards National and Overseas Associateships to NER scientists for advanced training at leading institutions in India or abroad. DBT's Visiting Research Professorship programme allows eminent scientists to mentor young faculty in NER institutions. In a unique initiative to motivate young students, DBT provides support for setting up basic biotechnology labs in senior secondary schools in NER. All in all, DBT's NER programme has been relentlessly fostering quality research in biosciences, creating a large pool of skilled manpower, and establishing high-end infrastructure facilities in various areas under biotechnology. Green shoots of biotechnology-led development in NER are now strikingly visible.

8 illus, 2 tables, 4 ref

019414   Sergeevich K D;Lezhnin Y N;Frolova E I (NO, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Russia, Russian Federation, Moscow, GSP-7, Ultisa Miklukho-Maklaya, 16/10) : Analysis of PDLIM4 expression in different subtypes of breast cancer. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2015, 12(3), 1991-8.

PDLIM4 is an adapter protein which is frequently silenced in different types of cancer, and is eventually induced in the event of phenotypic reversion of cancer cells. Little is known about specific mechanisms that underly involvement of PDLIM4 in the processes of malignant transformation and reversion; several data suggest that PDLIM4 could function as a regulator of c-Src tyrosine kinase activity, other observations indicate that its participation is not mandatory for c-Src regulation. In this study we explored PDLIM4 role as a possible indicator of molecular subtype of breast cancer. We performed RNA sequencing on the panel of breast cancer cell lines grouped by PDLIM4 status and compared their expression profiles with those of different breat cancer subtypes, and observed a correlation between PDLIM4 status and claudin-low phenotype, which may indicate involvement of PDLIM4 in distinct pathologic pathways that lead to malignant transformation of breast epithelium.

2 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

019413   Sankaran M;Sivakumar S;Stainsloss I (Biochemistry and Biotechnology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu) : Inhibitory effect of 13C and its metabolites DIM, against 7, 12- dimthyl Benz(a)anthracene (DMBA) induced rat mammary carcinoma by modulates ER/PR status, lipid profile, and oxidant and antioxidant status. Asian J biochem pharm Res 2015, 5(2), 48-66.

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer and leading cause of death in women around the world. Management of cancer without side effect is still a challenging to the medical system. Natural products are one of the most successful sources of pharmacologically active compounds for cancer treatment in humans. Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and its metabolite 3, 3'-diindolylmethane (DIM) are naturally occurring dietary components found in cruciferous vegetables. Many studies have been reported that both I3C and DIM are more potential chemopreventive agents, against various malignancies. In order to confirm their anticancer property, we are administrated I3C and DIM on 7,12-dimethalbenz(a) anthracene (DMBA) induced rats and observed their bodyweight changes, tumour incidence, oxidant / antioxidant status as well as lipid profile levels, Estrogen/Progesterone expression in 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (25 mg/kg b.w)-induced mammary cancer in female Sprague-Dawley rats. More over the levels, lipid profiles and Estrogen/Progesterone expression were increased and antioxidant levels were decreased in plasma, liver and mammary tissues of cancerinduced rats. Which were significantly reversed on I3C and DIM supplementation. Besides I3C and DIM at the dose of 50 and 20 mg/kg b.w exhibited near normal biochemical profile and well preserved liver and mammary gland histology as compared to the untreated DMBA alone induced rats. This effect was more beneficial on treatment with DIM at the dose of 20 mg/kg b.w when compared to I3C response, thus our findings suggest that DIM could serve as a potent nontoxic dietary compound drug even at low concentration for treating mammary carcinoma.

13 illus, 2 tables, 44 ref

019412   Samrot A V;Bhakyalakshmi M;Venkatraman K L; Sahiti K;Philip S A;Jahnavi T;Senthilkumar P (Biotechnology Dep, Sathyabama Univ, Sholinganallur, Chennai-600 119) : Optimization and characterization of poly[R]hydroxyalkanoates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2015, 12(3), 2133-8.

Polynucleotides, polypeptides, polysaccharides are the polymers seen in living organisms. Many biopolymers are important reserve compounds that are stored in the cytoplasm as insoluble inclusions. Likewise Polyhydroxyalkanoates are natural, renewable bio poly esters accumulated in bacteria in the presence of limited nitrogen sources and higher concentration of carbon source. In this study, PHA accumulation pattern of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was studied. The PHA was optimized for various carbon sources, incubation time, pH and temperature. Analytical techniques like FTIR and GC-MS were done to determine the types of monomer present in the biopolyester.

7 illus, 22 ref

019411   Saha L;Chakrabarti A;Sweta Kumari;Bhatia A; Banerjee D (Pharmacology Dep, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, Email: lekhasaha@rediffmail.com ) : Antiapoptotic and neuroprotective role of curcumin in pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) induced kindling model in rat. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(2), 133-41.

Kindling, a sub threshold chemical or electrical stimulation, increases seizure duration and enhances accompanied behavior until it reaches a sort of equilibrium state. The present study aimed to explore the effect of curcumin on the development of kindling in PTZ kindled rats and its role in apoptosis and neuronal damage. In a PTZ kindled Wistar rat model, different doses of curcumin (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg) were administrated orally one hour before the PTZ injections on alternate day during the whole kindling days. The following parameters were compared between control and experimental groups: the course of kindling, stages of seizures, Histopathological scoring of hippocampus, antioxidant parameters in the hippocampus, DNA fragmentation and caspase-3 expression in hippocampus, and neuron-specific enolase in the blood. One way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni post hoc analysis and Fischer's Exact test were used for statistical analyses. PTZ, 30 mg/kg, induced kindling in rats after 32.0±1.4 days. Curcumin showed dose-dependent anti-seizure effect. Curcumin (300 mg/kg) significantly increased the latency to myoclonic jerks, clonic seizures as well as generalized tonic-clonic seizures, improved the seizure score and decreased the number of myoclonic jerks. PTZ kindling induced a significant neuronal injury, oxidative stress and apoptosis which were reversed by pretreatment with curcumin in a dose-dependent manner. Our study suggests that curcumin has a potential antiepileptogenic effect on kindling-induced epileptogenesis.

2 illus, 4 tables, 52 ref

019410   Safenkova I V;Zaitsev I A;Varitsev Y A; Zherdev A V;Dzantiev B B (NO, A.N. Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Research Center of Biotechnology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071 Russia, Email: dzantiev@inbi.ras.ru) : Lateral flow immunoassay for rapid diagnosis of potato blackleg caused by Pectobacterium atrosepticum. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2015, 12(3), 1937-45.

Potato blackleg and soft rot caused by Pectobacterium atrosepticum lead to significant yield losses. The early detection of P. atrosepticum is essential for healthy potato seed tubers. The aim of this study was to develop a method to rapidly detect P. atrosepticum based on the lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) technique. Rabbit polyclonal antibodies specific to various strains of P. atrosepticum were obtained. Conjugates of these antibodies with gold nanoparticles averaging 20 nm in diameter were synthesized. Optimal concentrations of antibodies and conjugates deposited on membranes of the test strips were determined. The developed LFIA is suitable for analyzing potato tubers and leaves and has a visual detection limit of 2 x 10⁵ cells/mL and a duration time of 10 min. Simple, rapid preparation of samples consists of homogenization in extracting buffer. No cross-reactivities with other potato pathogens, such as Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum and Dickeya dianthicola, or saprophytes of healthy potato plants were detected. The assay was tested on 30 lots of potato tubers. The LFIA results were confirmed by ELISA (100% concurrence) and PCR (87.5% for positive samples and 95.5% for negative samples). Diagnosis of potato blackleg and soft rot by LFIA requires no equipment or training to perform, is cost effective and can be used in the field to monitor infection-causing P. atrosepticum.

4 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

019409   Ravindran B (NO, Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar-751 023, Email: balaravi@ils.res.in) : New pathogen discovery. Curr Sci 2016, 110(4), 549-51.

Epidemics and pandemics caused by infectious pathogens have been a major cause of concern from the public health and economic point of view. The general approach in the past has been to investigate outbreaks in the shortest possible time using microbiological tools and initiate intervention strategies. However significant progress made in nucleic acid sequencing technologies and development of bioinformatics tools have enabled rapid diagnosis of infectious pathogens in human and animal communities. These tools have also enabled ambitious programmes the world over to discover newer pathogens and more significantly predict future outbreaks - something the global science community had not succeeded in the past.

18 ref

019408   Ravikant;Parveen Kumar;Ranotkar S;Zutshi S; Lahkar M;Phukan C;Saikia K K (Biotechnology, Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), GMCH, Bhangagarh, Guwahati-781 032, Email: parveen5niper@gmail.com) : Prevalence and identification of extended spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) in Escherichia coli isolated from a tertiary care hospital in North-East India. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(2), 108-14.

Extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) are rapidly evolving group of β-lactamase enzymes produced by the Gram negative bacteria. In this study, we determined the antimicrobial sensitivity pattern of Escherichia coli isolates and prevalence of TEM, SHV and CTX-M genes in ESBL positive E. coli isolated from the patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital in North-East India. A total of 85 multidrug-resistant isolates of E. coli obtained from clinical samples; urine (n=80), sputum (n=3), body fluid (n=1), vaginal discharge (n=1) were screened for resistance to third generation cephalosporins. ESBL production in resistant isolates was determined by double disk synergy test (DDST) and phenotypic confirmatory test (PCT). ESBL positive isolates were subjected to PCR for detection of TEM, SHV and CTX-M genes. Imipenem was found to be most effective against E. coli (susceptible isolates 96.47%) while ciprofloxacin was the least effective antibiotic (resistant isolates 60%). Among 33 ESBL positive isolates confirmed via PCT, preponderance in female population (60.6%) was noted. The most prevalent gene was bla_SHV (63.04%) followed by bla_TEM and bla_CTX-M (60.86 and 54.34%, respectively) in ESBL positive E. coli. Most of the extensively used antibiotics, appear to be ineffective against the ever-mutating bacteria. This resistance urges cautious antimicrobial management on priority. Further, it helps in effectively designing the chemotherapeutic regimen for patients of a particular geographic area.

2 illus, 3 tables, 53 ref

019407   Rathod R R;Mehta D R;Gajera H P;Delvadiya N A (Biotechnology Dep, Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh-362 001, Email: harsukhgajera@yahoo.com) : Molecular characterization of ridge gourd (Luffa acutangula L.) and sponge gourd (Luffa cylindrica I.) genotypes through PCR based molecular markers. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2015, 8(3), 521-30.

The present study was carried out for the comparison of RAPD and ISSR markers for polymorphism pa ern and molecular diversity analysis among 17 ridge gourd (Luff a acutangula L.) and sponge gourd (Luff a cylindrica L.) genotypes using 20 RAPD and 12 ISSR markers. Twenty RAPD primers generated total of 94 bands of which 81 bands were polymorphic showing 86.17% polymorphism. The average bands per primer were found 4.05. The polymorphic information content (PIC) was recorded from 0.4828 to 0.8842 for RAPD. Jaccard's similarity coeffi cient ranged from 30.8% to 78.6% for RAPD. However, out of 30 ISSR primers screened, twelve ISSR primers produced 79 bands of which 66 bands were polymorphic and 83.54% polymorphism with an average of 7.16 bands per primer. The PIC ranged between 0.6548 and 0.8939 for ISSR. Jaccard's similarity coeffi cient ranged from 22.7% to 81.2% for ISSR. This study showed that RAPD and ISSR markers produced specifi c DNA fragments for identifi cation of ridge gourd and sponge gourd genotypes.

5 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

019406   Rajput H J;Dahat D V;Wable S V;Bhor T J (Biotechnology Laboratory, College of Agriculture, Pune-411 005) : Influence of growth regulators on in vitro propagation in strawberry var. camarosa. Adv Pl Sci 2015, 28(2), 309-12.

Shoot began to proliferate after 1 week of culture. Significantly highest per cent (99.0%) of plants showing shoot proliferation was observed in the medium containing MS basal + 2.0 mgl^-1 BAP + 1.0 mgl^-1 Kinetin. Kinetin level 1.5 mgl^-1 was found optimum for early shoot proliferation in combination with 0.5 mg BAP. The kinetin concentration of 1.0 mg was found to be optimum for highest length of shoots in combination with 0.5 mg BAP. For the character, percentage of micro cutting rooted, significantly higher (89.60%) rooting was observed in the basal medium containing 1.0 mg IBA. The optimum level of IBA for earlier root formation was also at 1.0 mgl^-1 concentration. For the character, number of roots per micro cutting, again the same MS basal medium containing 1.0 mg IBA produced significantly higher number (4.80) of roots. The same medium produced significantly higher length (4.02) of roots.

3 tables, 15 ref

019405   Rajendran R;Sundaram S K;Prabhavathi P; Sridevi B V;Kumar S D;Santhanam P (PG & Research Dep of Microbiology, PSG College of Arts & Sciences, Coimbatore-641 014, Email: prabha_micro2007@yahoo.co.in) : Bioremediation of azo dye containing textile effulent using adapted bacterial strains under subsequent microerophilic- Aerobic conditions. J scient ind Res 2016, 75(2), 124-30.

Textile effluents are causing a wholesome of trouble in our vicinity, which needs to be taken good care of before being discharged in to the natural surroundings. In our present study, we have isolated about 5 different bacterial strains from azo dye containing textile effluent sample. The bacterial strains were allowed to act on the textile effluent under subsequent microaerophilic and aerobic conditions. In the treatment under microaerophilic condition the bacterial strains were allowed to form a biofilm on inert polyurethane foam as individual cultures and as a consortium, in a glass column. The effluent sample was passed through the column in a particular hydraulic retention time (8ml/hr). The samples were collected at the base after treatment in a conical flask, incubated in a metabolic shaker at 120 rpm for a period of 8 hours for aerobic remediation. The consortium was able to elicit an efficient remediation potential than the individual strains at an optimal retention time of 12 hours with 8 hours of aerobic agitation at a pH of 7 and at an optimal organic loading rate of 100% of the effluent load. Analyzing the effluent treated through GC/MS, which found that the toxic end products formed at the end of microaerophilic treatment was removed through the aerobic treatment modality, and the effluent was found to be devoid of any toxicity after clarification and disinfection processes.

2 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

019404   Rahman S;Barua E;Choudhury J K;Dut A;Kalita M C (Biotechnology Dep, Gauhat Univ, Guwahat-781 014) : Generation of DNA barcodes in Indian mottled EEL (Anguilla bengalensis): a threatened ichthyofauna of Assam, India. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2015, 8(3), 511-19.

Eels have always been a source of fascination because of their charismatic shape and size. They are good source of animal protein and bear high food values. Dwindling population of eels has meanwhile led certain species to IUCN threatened categories. In spite of these, scientifi c investigations on the only species of this genus, Anguilla bengalensis, in this region have not been reported much. Many biological questions of the catadromous fi sh are still unanswered. Quick but authentic identifi cation of threatened species is vital to unveil such query and frame out conservation and management strategies. DNA barcodes utilising partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I gene and nuclear rhodopsin gene were developed in this current study. Conventional taxonomic information has also been included contemplating inevitable role of it in unambiguous species level discrimination. The study has generated novel barcode of the species from this region to decipher implications on congeneric and conspecific divergence.

7 illus, 2 tables, 36 ref

019403   Rahimi A;Ghobadian B;Najafi G;Montazeri M; Zareiforoush H (Mechanical & Biosystems Engineering Dep, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares Univ, P.O. Box 14115-336, Tehran 14114, Iran, Email: ghobadib@modares.ac.ir) : Experimental investigation of performance and emissions in light duty diesel engine under different loads using diesel-biodiesel fuel blends. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2015, 12(3), 2387-92.

In this research, the performance characteristics and exhaust emissions of an air-cooled single-cylinder diesel engine were investigated using different mixtures of biodiesel fuel derived from castor oil. The evaluations were carried out at different engine loads (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) and engine constant speed of 1950 rpm. For all of the investigated loads, the generated power by the engine using the different biofuel mixturesincreased. The specific fuel consumption decreased for biodiesel blends in low loads compared to diesel fuel. The lowest emissions of CO pollutant for all of the evaluated mixtures were observed at middle engine loads and the emissions for biodiesel mixtures were lower than those of pure diesel fuel. Emissions of CO₂ for all of the evaluated mixtures were lower than those of pure diesel and the highest decrease (8.5%) was observed for B15 mixture. Compared with pure diesel fuel, the emission of NOx for B5 and B10 mixtures increased insignificantly, whilst the emission decreased for B15 and B20 mixtures. The emissions of unburnedhydrocarbons by the engine decreased by 21% compared to pure diesel engine.

7 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

019402   Pradhan P;Soni N K;Chaudhary L;Mujwar S; Pardasani K R (Bioinformatics Dep, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal-462 051) : "In-silico prediction of riboswitches and design of their potent inhibitors for H1N1, H2N2 and H3M2 strains of influenza virus". Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2015, 12(3), 2173-86.

Almost every age group is at higher risk for serious flu complications. The major problem arising these days regarding the control of influenza disease is the development of resistance among the influenza viruses against the existing anti-viral drugs that are being recommended. Also, these antiviral drugs have a number of side effects. The main objective of the present paper is to explore riboswitches as a novel target for design of drugs for influenza virus in order to address the issues of resistance and side effects of present drugs. Riboswitches are present in the non-coding region of mRNA that sense changes in the cellular environment and directly mediate appropriate gene control responses. These riboswitches are primarily found in the 5' untranslated regions of messenger RNAs. In the present paper in-silico approach is proposed for the prediction of riboswitches for the strains of influenza virus, their binding sites and design of their inhibitors. Two riboswitches have been predicted for the three strains of influenza virus and five inhibitors have been identified for each of the two riboswitches by virtual screening. These inhibitors are found to be free from the side effects of antiviral agents and have remote chances of being resistant.

16 illus, 11 tables, 33 ref

019401   Park W T;Yeo S K;Baskar T B;Arasu M V; Al-Dhabi N A;Park J S;Park S U (Crop Science Dep, Chungnam National Univ, 99 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34134, Korea) : Influence of acibenzolar-S-methylon on the expression of phenylpropanoid biosynthetic geanes and the accumulation of phenylpropanoids in Agastache rugosa. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2015, 12(3), 3061-6.

Agastache rugosa, (Korean mint), contains sesquiterpenes, essential oils, diterpenes, flavonoids, triterpenes, and carotenoids that are used for the treatment of cancer. Medicinal plants can activate defensive mechanisms upon exposure to pathogens, various chemicals, or physical stress. The present study aimed to determine the expression levels of phenylpropanoid pathway genes and accumulation of phenylpropanoids in A.rugosa plantlets in response to acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM) treatment.ASM treatment stimulated the expression of phenylpropanoid biosynthetic genes such as PAL, C4H, CHS, CHI, HPPR, TAT, and RAS after 1, 3, 5, and 7 days of cultivation. The expression pattern of the upstream and downstream phenylpropanoid biosynthetic genes was directly proportional to the ASM exposure times. In particular, the expression level of the RAS gene was 1.59-, 2.88-, 1.36-, and 1.41-fold higher at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days after ASM treatment, when compared to respective controls. The levels of rosmarinic acid, tilianin, and acacetin accumulation were comparatively2.28-, 1.88-, and 1.61-fold higher than those of the control after 7 days of ASM treatment. Among the phenylpropanoids examined, rosmarinic acid was highest (5 mg/g dry weight) in the control and ASM-treated plantlets. Our results indicated that ASM enhances the expression of genes related to phenylpropanoids and accumulation of phenylpropanoids during the development of A. rugosa plantlets.

4 illus, 21 ref

019400   Paddibhatla I;Mishra R K (Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Uppal Road, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: mishra@ccmb.res.in) : Drosophila as a model for mosquito: olfactory signals and host seeking behaviour. Curr Sci 2016, 110(1), 44-6.

Olfactory cue dependence of insects such as mosquitoes is beneficial in understanding insect behaviour during host seeking. Understanding of the host-seeking behaviour, particularly, the olfactory process involved in it at molecular level is likely to provide new means of controlling insects. A number of studies have shown Drosophila as a successful model system to decipher and delineate the role of olfactory genes. Such studies can be extended to understand the host-seeking behaviour of mosquitoes. We discuss recent progress in this area and an emerging new approach that can utilize Drosophila, genetically modified to carry mosquito receptors, in identifying compounds that can be subsequently used to control mosquitoes.

2 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

019399   Ningegowda R;Nanjunda Swamy S;Achar R R; Basappa Gaonkar S L;Ranjith S;Yip G W;Priya B S (Studies in Chemistry Dep, Mysore Univ, Mysore-570 006) : New class of isobenzofuran-5-carboxamide derivatives: synthesis, studies on induction of apoptosis and inhibitio of cancer cell proliferation. Asian J biochem pharm Res 2015, 5(2), 186-97.

Keeping in view that carboxamides have a wide array of biological activities, 1-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,3 dihydroisobenzofuran-5-carboxylic acid was coupled with aromatic and aliphatic amines to obtain a new series of isobenzofuran-5-carboxamide derivatives. These derivatives were analyzed for their antiproliferative efficacy against human breast cancer cells and prostate cancer cells. All the compounds showed antiproliferative activity against LNCaP prostate cancer cell lines. The compound 4b showed antiproliferative activity against MDA-MB 231 (IC50 =40±1.1 μ M), MCF-7(IC50 =36±1.4 μ M), PC3 (IC50=42±1.7 μ M ) and LNCaP (IC50 =20±1.1 μ M ) cancer cells. Compound 4b showing a promising antiproliferative effect induced apoptosis in LNCaP prostate cancer cells. In-silico molecular docking reveals the interaction of the 4b with caspase 7. Additionally, the in-silico pharmacokinetic parameters reflect the drug like properties of the all the synthesized isobenzofuran carboxamides.

3 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref

019398   Narendharan S;Sivaraj R (Biotechnology Dep, School of Life Sciences, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Eachanari Post, Coimbatore-641 021, Email: narendhransumathi@gmail.com) : Biogenic ZnO nanoparticles synthesized using L.aculeata leaf extract and their antifungal activity against plant fungal pathogens. Bull Mater Sci 2016, 39(1), 1-5.

In this study, Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were synthesized using aqueous extract of Lantana aculeata Linn. leaf and assessed their effects on antifungal activity against the plant fungal pathogens. Synthesized nanoparticles were confirmed by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer, X-ray diffractometer, Field-emission scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The antifungal activity of ZnO nanoparticles were determined using the well diffusion method. All the characterization analyses revealed that nanoparticles were highly stable and crystalline in nature. L. aculeata-mediated ZnO nanoparticles were spherical in shape with an average particle size of 12 ± 3 nm. Antifungal studies concluded that the maximum zone of inhibition was observed in Aspergillus flavus (21 ± 1.0 mm) and Fusarium oxysporum (19 ± 1.0 mm) at 100 μg ml^-1 concentration. These results clearly indicated the benefits of using ZnO nanoparticles synthesized using biological methods and shown to have antifungal activities and also that it can be effectively used as antifungal agent in environmental aspect of agricultural development.

7 illus, 23 ref

019397   Muralidharan J;Jayachandran S;Thiruvenkadan A K;Singh D A P;Sivakumar K (Livestock Production and Management Dep, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal-637 002, Email: lpmmurali@yahoo.com) : Effect of concentrate and urea molasses mineral block supplementation on the blood biochemistry of off season Mecheri lambs. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(3), 409-12.

A study was undertaken to assess the blood biochemical parameters of off season Mecheri male lambs, under concentrate and urea molasses mineral block (UMMB) supplementation. In the growth trial, 24 lambs in three groups of eight lambs each were reared under grazing for a period of 180 days; T₁ -Grazing alone, T₂-Grazing + concentrate supplementation, T3-Grazing + UMMB supplementation. Blood samples were collected at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 days of experiment. Serum protein increased (P <60> 0.05) in supplemented groups whereas, serum albumin increased significantly (P <60> 0.05) only in concentrate supplemented group (T₂). Serum calcium (P <60> 0.01) and phosphorus (P <60> 0.05) values were higher in supplemented groups Concentrate supplemented group had higher (P <60> 0.05) serum cholesterol than unsupplemented group. UMMB supplemented group had significantly (P <60> 0.01) higher BUN values than the unsupplemented group. It was concluded that blood biochemical parameters of off season Mecheri lambs were influenced by supplementation.

1 table, 9 ref

019396   Munifah I;Sunarti T C;Irianto H E;Meryandini A (Biology Dep, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Pertanian Bogor, Dramaga Campus, Bogor 16680, Indonesia, Email: ifah_munifah@yahoo.com.au) : Biodegradation of solid wastes of Agar seaweed processing industry by indigenous cellulolytic Bacillus pumilus LA4P. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2015, 12(3), 1957-64.

Indonesia is known as the second seaweed producer in the world after China. Gracilaria sp seaweed is an important commodity in industry as raw material to produce agar and its derivate products. Solid wastes of seaweed processing industry (SWA) contain considerable amounts of cellulose. Cellulolytic bacteria were screened and isolated from the solid wastes of agar seaweed processing Industry in Malang, East Java, Indonesia. Among those isolates, LA4P strains showed higher potential for practical uses and identified as Bacillus pumilus strains by morphological, physiological, and biochemical characterization and 16S rRNA gene analysis. The optimum incubation time Bacillus pumilus LA4P in CMC broth (0.20 U/mL, 60 hours) relative shorter than 1% SWA broth (0.26 U/mL, 108 hours). The maximum enzyme production obtained using 2.5% SWA (0.34 U/mL). The test resulted that crude enzyme from Bacillus pumilus has a relatively high activity in the pH range 5-7 buffer at 0.23 U / mL and a temperature of 40 0C. The thermal stability assay indicated that the activity was stable at 30 to 600C after 15 minutes minutes incubation and it lost activity at 80 0C after 60 minutes incubation. The production patterns of cellulose degrading enzymes were investigated during cell culture. HPLC analysis confirm the degradation of these SWA substrates into soluble sugars. The isolated strains produced CMCase, Avicelase, β -glucosidase, and cellobiase enzymes, suggesting synergic cellulolytic systems in Bacillus pumilus LA4P.

8 illus, 5 tables, 15 ref

019395   Mousavi S M;Ghorani P S;Javidi P;Berahman N; Moattari M (Orthodontics Dep, Faculty of Dentistry, Ahvaz Jundishapur Univ of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran, Email: pjavidi@gmail.com) : Effect of time and three different storage environments on the dimensional stability of acrylic removable orthodontic appliances. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2015, 12(3), 2319-24.

Acrylic resin is widely used in manufacturing removable orthodontic appliances. Nevertheless water sorption and dimensional changes are some of the drawbacks of this material that can affect the accuracy of the appliance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Corega^® solution on dimensional changes of orthodontic appliances in comparison with two conditions including dry and water environment. Sixty six acrylic resin specimens were made in quadrangular metal mold. Then the length, width and diameter of each specimen were measured with digital caliper with measurement accuracy of 0.01 mm. Specimens were randomly divided into three groups. The samples in these three groups were kept in dry environment, water and Corega^® solution respectively. Different dimensions of the specimens were blindly measured after 18 hours, 48 hours and 1 week by two independent evaluators.Dry environment had the highest amount of dimensional change and was significantly different from water and Corega^® solution over those three evaluated periods of time. No significant difference was seen between dimensional changes in water and Corega^® solution. Also data analysis showed that acrylic resin's dimensional change in dry environment over different periods of time is not statistically significant. Orthodontic appliances should be kept in water or Corega^® solution and Corega^® solution is the superior choice due to its antibacterial effects.

3 tables, 15 ref