017343   Yu X;Matsumura N;Fan J;Ranu R S (Laboratory of Plant Molecular Biology/Biotechnology, Bioagricultural Sciences and Pest Management, Colorado State Univ, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1177, USA, Email: rranu@mail.colostate.edu) : Genomic gene structure of one of the 1-Aminocyclopropane- 1-carboxylate (ACC) synthases of Pelargonium x hortourm cv sincerity (Geranium). Indian J agric Biochem 2015, 28(1), 1-5.

Phytohormone, ethylene is involved in a variety of growth and developmental processes in plants, including fruit ripening. 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) synthase (ACS) is one of the key regulatory enzymes in the ethylene biosynthesis pathway. Geraniums exhibit a high level of sensitivity to ethylene, as a consequence, ACS genes from geranium have been intensively investigated. As a continuation this work, here we describe the structure of one of the full-length ACS genomic clones (gPHS-ACS49) from Pelargonium x hortorum cv sincerity. The gene contains four exons and three introns and share sequence homologies with other plant ACSs with features that are characteristic of all ACSs. The length of introns vary from 88 nucleotides for the first; 94 nucleotides for the second and 339 nucleotides for third intron, respectively. The transcription start site and the polyadenylation signal site of the gene have been identified by sequence comparison with the PHS-ACS49 cDNA.

2 illus, 35 ref

017342   Yimam M;al et (NO, Unigen Inc., Seattle, WA-98121, USA) : UP1304, a botanical composition containing two standardized extracts of Curcuma longa and Morus alba, mitigates pain and inflammation in adjuvant- induced arthritic rats. Pharmacog Res 2016, 8(2), 112-17.

The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of the botanical composition were demonstrated in adjuvant-induced arthritis models in rats with oral dose ranges of 50-200 mg/kg. Ibuprofen at a dose of 100 mg/kg was used as a reference compound. Ex vivo sulfated glycosaminoglycan inhibition assays were performed. Statistically significant improvements in pain resistance, suppression of paw edema and ankle thickness were observed in animals treated with UP1304 compared to vehicle-treated diseased rats. These results were similar to those achieved by ibuprofen treatment. Inhibitions of proteoglycan degradation were observed in a range of 37.5-61.7% for concentration of UP1304 at 50-200 μg/mL when compared to interleukin-1α-exposed untreated explants. These data suggest that UP1304, for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, could potentially be considered agent of botanical origin for the improvement of arthritis associated symptoms.

3 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

017341   Wali A;Gupta M;Mallick S A;Guleria S;Sharma M (Biochemistry and Plant Physiology Div, ABM and Statistics, Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agr, Main Campus, Chatha, Jammu and Kashmir-180 009, Email: moniguptaskuast@rediffmail.com) : Antioxidant potential and phenol profile of bael leaf (Aegle marmelos). Indian J agric Biochem 2015, 28(2), 138-42.

Methanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction of Aegle marmelos leaves were investigated for antioxidant potential and phenolic content. The highest free radical scavenging activity was observed in leaf ethyl acetate fraction (IC₅₀ value: 191.4±1.5 μg/mL) followed by leaf methanol extract IC₅₀ value: 249.3±9.4 μg/mL). The results of present study revealed metal ion chelating activity of leaf methanolic extract (IC₅₀value: 165.7±2.3 μg/mL) and of leaf ethyl acetate fraction (IC₅₀ value: 410±13.9μg/mL). The amount of total phenolics ranged from 16.5±0.3 to 23.2 mg GAE/g dw. However, highest phenolic content was observed in leaf ethyl acetate fraction (23.2±0.2 mg GAEs/g dry wt.) followed by leaf methanolic extract (16.5±0.3 mg GAEs/g dry wt.). RP-HPLC analysis of the leaf methanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction of Aegle marmelos revealed the presence of different phenolic acids viz. gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, vanillic acid, p-hydroxy benzoic acid, syringic acid, ferulic acid and chlorogenic acid. The percent area of gallic acid (GA) was found higher in leaf ethyl acetate fraction (22.93%) and lowest in leaf methanolic extract (6.79%).

6 illus, 22 ref

017340   Verma R S;Amit Kumar;Mishra P;Kuppusamy B; Padalia R C;Sundaresan V (Natural Product Chemistry Dep, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Cent, Pantnagar, Email: vsundaresan@cimap.res.in) : Essential oil composition of four Ocimum spp. from the Peninsular India. J essential Oil Res 2016, 28(1), 35-41.

Compositional characteristics of the essential oils of four Ocimum spp., namely Ocimum adscendens Willd., Ocimum gratissimum L., Ocimum tenuiflorum L. and Ocimum americanum L. were examined using GC-FID, GC-MS, and hierarchical cluster analyses from peninsular India. The essential oil content varied from 1.0% to 2.0% in different Ocimum spp. Altogether eighty-four constituents, corresponding to 89.9-96.5% of the total oil compositions were identified. Major constituents of O. adscendens oil were eugenol (47.6%), (E)-caryophyllene (15.7%) and β-elemene (11.3%). O. gratissimum oil was characterized by the presence of higher amounts of eugenol (52.9%), caryophyllene oxide (7.2%) and (Z)-β-ocimene (3.5%). Major constituents of O. tenuiflorum oil were methyl eugenol (50.9%), caryophyllene oxide (7.5%) and (E)-caryophyllene (5.5%). Moreover, the oil of O. americanum was dominated by camphor (41.8%), limonene (7.1%), α-pinene (6.2%), β-selinene (5.6%) and camphene (5.0%). To the best of our knowledge, a detailed essential oil profile of O. adscendens is being reported for the first time.

2 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

017339   Tibarewala D N;Roy S;Majumder P (School of Biosciences and Engineering, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata) : Interrelation of COX-2 inhibition on expression of vascular endothelial growth and interleukin-8 in lung cancer cells. Pharma Innovation 2016, 5(5), 21-7.

Cyclooxygenase 2(COX 2) Selective COX-2 inhibitors are a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that directly targets cyclooxygenase-2, COX-2, an enzyme responsible for inflammation and pain. Targeting selectivity for COX-2 reduces the risk of peptic ulceration, and is the main feature of celecoxib, rofecoxib and other members of this drug class. After several COX-2 inhibiting drugs were approved for marketing, data from clinical trials revealed that COX-2 inhibitors caused a significant increase in heart attacks and strokes, with some drugs in the class having worse risks than others. Rofecoxib (commonly known as Vioxx) was taken off the market in 2004 because of these concerns and celecoxib and traditional NSAIDs received boxed warnings on their labels.

5 illus, 32 ref

017338   Tibarewala D N;Roy S;Majumder P (School of Biosciences and Engineering, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata) : Novel interleukin 17 antibody quickly reduces psoriasis and also its role in immunity and inflammation. Pharma Innovation 2016, 5(5), 14-20.

Interleukin are a group of cytokines (secreted proteins and signal molecules) that were first seen to be expressed by white blood cells (leukocytes) The function of the immune system depends in a large part on interleukins, and rare deficiencies of a number of them have been described, all featuring autoimmune diseases or immune deficiency. The majority of interleukins are synthesized by helper CD4 T lymphocytes, as well as through monocytes, macrophages, and endothelial cells. They promote the development and differentiation of T and B lymphocytes, and hematopoietic cells. Interleukin 17 (IL-17) is a potent proinflammatory cytokine produced by activated memory T cells. The IL-17 family is thought to represent a distinct signaling system that appears to have been highly conserved across vertebrate evolution. Interleukin 17 (IL-17) and its closest relative, IL-17F, have recently drawn much attention in the field of immunology. IL-17 and IL-17F are expressed by a distinct type of T cells, T helper 17 cells and certain other lymphocytes. These cytokines play key regulatory roles in host defense and inflammatory diseases. In this review, we summarize the recent findings in IL-17 biology and the progress towards understanding the regulatory mechanisms of IL-17 expression and signaling mechanisms. This knowledge will benefit the development of novel immune modulators that enhance immunity to various infections and reduce inflammatory damage in infected patients.

68 ref

017337   Tibarewala D N;Majumder P;Mazumdar A;Roy S; Talukdar V (School of Biosciences and Engineering Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata, West Bengal) : Egfr augments aerobic glycolysis in multi-negetive breast cancer cells to promote tumorigenesis and immune escape. Pharma Innovation 2016, 5(5), 1-8.

Cellular metabolism and bioenergetics are regulated by cancer genes and are intimately linked to the growth and survival of cancer cells. Metabolism generates oxygen radicals, which contribute to oncogenic mutations. Activated oncogenes and loss of tumor suppressors in turn alter metabolism and induce aerobic glycolysis. Aerobic glycolysis or the Warburg effect links the high rate of glucose fermentation to cancer. Together with glutamine, glucose via glycolysis provides the carbon skeletons, NADPH, and ATP to build new cancer cells, which persist in hypoxia that in turn rewires metabolic pathways for cell growth and survival. Excessive caloric intake is associated with an increased risk for cancers, while caloric restriction is protective, perhaps through clearance of mitochondria or mitophagy, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Hence, the links between metabolism and cancer are multifaceted, spanning from the low incidence of cancer in large mammals with low specific metabolic rates to altered cancer cell metabolism resulting from mutated enzymes or cancer genes.

7 illus, 9 ref

017336   Sumitha S;Vidhya R P;Suba Lakshmi M;Shanmugha Prasad K (Chemistry and Advanced Research Centre, S.T. Hindu College, Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, Email: prasad2136@gmail.com) : Leaf extract mediated green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles usig Ocimum tenuiflorum and its characterisation. Int J chem Sci 2016, 14(1), 435-40.

Synthesis of nanostructural materials using plant leaf extract is an eco-friendly, non-toxic and cost efficient approach. In this paper we report the synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles using copper acetate as precursor and Ocimum tenuiflorum leaf extract as a reducing agent. The synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles were characterized by FT-IR, SEM, XRD and EDX. These analytical techniques clearly confirm the formation of copper oxide with monoclinic structure. Our method utilizes an economic, eco-friendly and biocompatible reducing agent for the synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles.

5 illus, 21 ref

017335   Srivastava S;Gupta G N;Sinha A;Srivastava V; Srivastava A (Mycology and Plant Pathology Dep, Institute of Agriculture Sciences, B.H.U., Varanasi-221 005, Email: shalu.bhu2008@gmail.com) : Physico- chemical properties of Jatropha curcas oil during storage. Indian J agric Biochem 2015, 28(1), 90-3.

Biodiesel is a renewable alternative fuel for the diesel engine derived from natural sources like Jatropha curcas oil. The present study was to estimate the changes that occur in physico-chemical properties of oils extracted from stored Jatropha seeds in comparison to fresh Jatropha seeds. Physico-chemical properties of Jatropha oil viz. acid value, iodine value, saponification value, UV spectroscopy, cetane value, refractive index, viscosity were estimated. All the values were higher in stored seed oil except iodine value which was lower than fresh seeds. The acid value, saponification value, refractive index and viscosity shows negative effect on the quality of Jatropha oil while decrease in iodine value and increase in cetane value is preferable for better quality bio-diesel.

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

017334   Srivastava R P;Singh J;Singh N P;Singh D (Division of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Kanpur-208 024, Email: rpsrivastava208@rediffmail.com) : Neurotoxin and other anti-nutrients of khesari (Lathyrus sativus) genotypes and their reduction by water soaking and dehusking. Indian J agric Biochem 2015, 28(2), 172-7.

Neurotoxin (β-N-oxalyl amino-L-alanine) content of different genotypes of Lathyrus seeds was present in the range of 0.46 to 1.14 mg g^{-1 having lower values in Ratan, Prateek, Mahateora and Pusa 24 genotypes. The soaking of unprocessed grain in water removed 12.99% of total BOAA, whereas dehusking resulted in an increase of 33.77% in BOAA content. The oxalate content in seeds of lathyrus genotypes was observed in the range of 1.39 to 1.67 mg g-1. The seed oxalate reduced drastically (55.56%) on dehusking of grain. Phytates in seeds of lathyrus was present in the range of 15.36 to 16.53 mg g-1. The phytates of seeds also decreased on soaking of grain in water or dehusking of grain. The tannins in the seeds of lathyrus were present in the range of 4.27 to 5.78 mg g-1. Soaking of grains in water or dehusking of grain caused a reduction of 15.76 and 50.50%, respectively of tannins of grain. The protein content of unprocessed seeds of lathyrus genotypes was 22.52 to 26.39%, whereas the dehusked grains of lathyrus contain very high soluble protein. The mean soluble protein in dehusked grains of lathyrus was 28.29%. The dehusking caused an increase of 15.28% in soluble protein of lathyrus. The starch in seeds of lathyrus genotypes was found in the range of 50.36 to 55.79%.}

4 tables, 33 ref

017333   Singla M;Sirohi A S;Lamba J S;Ahuja C S (Livestock Production Management Dep, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : Effect of soaked and boiled concentrate feeding on growth, TVFA'S production and blood biochemistry of stall-fed beetal kids. Indian J Anim Res 2014, 48(5), 448-51.

Eighteen Beetal kids (male and female) of 5-6 months age and 9.96 ± 0.37 kg body weights were randomly assigned to three groups to assess the effect of different processing methods of concentrates on their performance under stall-fed production system. Concentrate feeds were soaked in water (1:3 w/v) for 16 hours (Ts) and boiled/cooked with hot water (1:3 w/v) for 15 minutes (Th) against the control group where mash feed was offered as such. Average daily gain (ADG) in weight was highest in Th (96.67 ± 6.91 g/day) followed by Ts (94.58 ± 15.84 g/day) over the control group (92.33 ± 7.52 g/day). However, the variations among the groups for ADG (g/day) were statistically non-significant. Average Dry Matter Intake (DMI) from concentrate, fodder and total feed was numerically similar in both Th and Ts groups, which was statistically higher than that of control group. Total Volatile Fatty Acids concentration was numerically higher in Ts followed by Th with respect to control group. Blood glucose (mg/dl), Total plasma protein (g/dl) and blood urea nitrogen (mg/dl) were within the normal physiological limits confirming that processing of feed has not resulted in any deleterious effect on health. It may be concluded that the interventions in methods of feeding concentrates has improved the performance of Beetal kids under stall-fed production system.

1 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

017332   Singh S;Singh H K;Singh D (Horticulture Dep, N.D. Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Kumargaj, Faizabad-224 229, Email: singhanshu412@gmail.com) : Effect of pruning intensity and foliar feeding of nutrients on yield and fruit quality of phalsa (Grewia subinaequalis D.C.). Res Envir Life Sci 2015, 8(3), 463-4.

The experiment was conducted to study the effect of different levels of pruning and foliar feeding of nutrients on yield and quality of phalsa (Grewia subinaequalis D.C.). The pruning level at 50 cm above ground level had significantly maximum weight of fifty fruits (44.20 g) and fruit yield per plant (3.82 kg). Moreover, total soluble solids (26.15%) and ascorbic acid (34.64mg/100g pulp) were also recorded high with pruning at 50 cm above ground level. While, highest acidity (2.17%) was noted with pruning at 75 cm above ground level. Regardless of severity of pruning, application of ZnSO4 (0.4%) showed significantly maximum weight of fifty fruits (45.56 g) and fruit yield per plant (3.82 kg). All quality parameters viz., TSS (27.60 UB), ascorbic acid (36.59 mg/100g pulp) and acidity were better with ZnSO4 (0.4%) treatment along with 50 cm pruning above ground level closely.

2 tables, 15 ref

017331   Singh S;Singh A K;Hafeez M;Shalini;Masih H (Microbiology and Fermentation Technology Dep, SHIATS, Naini, Allahabad-211 007) : Production and optimization of Bacillus subtilis laccase by solid state fermentation of agro-byprodcuts. Res Envir Life Sci 2015, 8(4 suppl), 829-32.

Laccases (E. C. 1.10.3.2, p-diphenol: dioxygen oxidoreductase) are a group of multi-copper containing enzymes that catalyze one-electron oxidation of phenolic compounds with concomitant reduction of oxygen to water. Laccases are increasingly being used in food industry for production of cost-effective and healthy foods. To sustain this trend widespread availability of laccase and efficient production systems have to be developed. Laccase producing bacteria was isolated from soil samples collected from different regions of Allahabad. Samples were screened and identified for better laccase producing bacteria on nutrient agar plate containing guaiacol. Bacillus subtilis was found to be the highest laccase producing bacteria isolated from saw mill soil. Highest laccase enzyme was produced by Bacillus subtilis on potato peel used as substrate in solid state fermentation (SSF). Production parameters were optimized and the optimum conditions were found to be at incubation temperature 35°C, incubation period 96 h, pH 8, copper concentration 200 ig, moisture content 75% and inoculum size 1.5 ml.

8 illus, 24 ref

017330   Singh S;Kankoriya S;Jain S K;Jain H;Singh S P (Animal Biotechnology Centre, Madhya Pradesh Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya, Jabalpur-482 004) : Genetic diversity analysis of Sahiwal and Tharparker breeds of cattle (Bos indicus) by microsatellite markers. Indian J Anim Res 2014, 48(5), 418-21.

15 microsatellite loci were investigated for studying the genetic polymorphism in Sahiwal (30) and Tharparker (30) breeds of cattle. Polymerase chain reactions (PCR) were carried out and amplified products were resolved in 6% (denaturing) urea PAGE and stained with silver nitrate. Out of the 15 microsatellite loci, 14 were found polymorphic. The number of alleles ranged from 3 to 7. The overall polymorphic information content (PIC) values ranged from 0.293 to 0.775. Wright's F statistics was carried out to determine the between breed (Fst) and within breed (Fis) genetic divergence. Fst value of 0.128 (P<60> 0.01) revealed moderate genetic diversity between these two breeds. The Fis values were -0.08 and -0.01 in Sahiwal and Tharparker breeds, respectively. The results indicated that the microsatellite markers can be used for genetic diversity analysis in other cattle breeds and identification of individual animals.

2 tables, 8 ref

017329   Singh P;Krishna A;Vinod Kumar;Krishna S;Singh K;Gupta M;Singh S (NO, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Crops, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Email: akrishna@cimap.res.in) : Chemistry and biology of industrial crop Tagetes species. J essential Oil Res 2016, 28(1), 1-14.

In this review, different research works related to Taxonomy, cytogenetics, tissue culture, Biotechnology, Agronomy, phytochemistry, pharmacology and biological activity as well as its commercial uses of Tagetes species including all the biological and chemical activities mainly T. minuta, T. patula and T. erecta have been compiled. The review also highlights the chemical structures and commercial uses of essential oil and its components of its unique biological activity being used as agrochemical, food and colorants and nutritional supplement and cosmetic industry. This review work also focus on commercial cultivation of T. minuta for its oil and T. patula and T. erecta find floriculture use and also raw material for commercial production of several kinds of compounds.

4 illus, 3 tables, 117 ref

017328   Sibi G;Rabina S (Biotechnology Dep, Indian Academy Degree College, Centre for Research and Post Graduate Studies, Bengaluru, Karnataka) : Inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines by Chlorella vulgaris extract. Pharmacog Res 2016, 8(2), 118-22.

Aim of this study was to determine the in vitro anti-inflammatory activities of solvent fractions from Chlorella vulgaris by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines. Methanolic extracts (80%) of C. vulgaris were prepared and partitioned with solvents of increasing polarity viz., n-hexane, chloroform, ethanol, and water. Various concentrations of the fractions were tested for cytotoxicity in RAW 264.7 cells using 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, and the concentrations inducing cell growth inhibition by about 50% (IC50) were chosen for further studies. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated RAW 264.7 cells were treated with varying concentrations of C. vulgaris fractions and examined for its effects on nitric oxide (NO) production by Griess assay. The release of prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using Celecoxib and polymyxin B as positive controls. MTT assay revealed all the solvent fractions that inhibited cell growth in a dose-dependent manner. Of all the extracts, 80% methanolic extract exhibited the strongest anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting NO production (P <60> 0.01), PGE₂ (P <60> 0.05), TNF-α, and IL-6 (P <60> 0.001) release in LPS induced RAW 264.7 cells. Both hexane and chloroform fractions recorded a significant (P <60> 0.05) and dose-dependent inhibition of LPS induced inflammatory mediators and cytokines in vitro. The anti-inflammatory effect of ethanol and aqueous extracts was not significant in the study. The significant inhibition of inflammatory mediators and cytokines by fractions from C. vulgaris suggests that this microalga would be a potential source of developing anti-inflammatory agents and a good alternate for conventional steroidal and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

2 illus, 38 ref

017327   Shergojry S A;Ramesha K P;Mir N A;Aarif O (NO, National Dairy Research Institute, Southern Campusm, Adugoudi, Bangalore-560 030) : Nucleotide sequence polymorphism within exon 8 of heat shock protein (HSP) 90AA1 gene and its association with milk production traits in Deoni cows. Indian J Anim Res 2014, 48(5), 408-12.

Group of proteins known as Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) are synthesized during heat stress. HSP genes have been reported to be associated with heat tolerance and production performance in cattle. PCR-SSCP technique and direct sequencing was used to identify novel SNPs in Exon 8 of HSP90AA1 gene in Deoni cows. In Exon 8, three unique SSCP patterns corresponding to TT, GG and TG genotype with frequencies of 0.250, 0.639 and 0.111, respectively were observed. The sequence analysis of Exon 8 revealed T → transversion at position 3650 of HSPAA1 gene (GenBank accession number NC-007319 as reference sequence). The observed polymorphism (T → G) at position 3650 results in substitution of an amino acid from Phenylalanine to Leucine. The cows having TG genotype had significantly higher lactation Milk Yield (Kg) as compared to cows with TT and GG genotypes (P≤0.01). There was no difference in Lactation Length (days) in cows with different genotypes.

3 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

017326   Sharma P;Bala M;Meena P D;Singh D (NO, ICAR-Directorate of Rapeseed Mustard Research, Bharatpur-321 303) : Screening of Brassica isolates for Sclerotinia sclerotiorum based on oxalic acid production. Indian J agric Biochem 2015, 28(1), 98-9.

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum was isolated from infected tissues of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) and maintained on PDA after confirmed pathogenicity. Highest oxalic acid production was observed in the isolate SR 24 (29.9 mM) and lowest in SR11 (3.3 mM). All 25 different geographical isolates were classified in four groups on the basis of oxalic acid production.

^ssc9 ref

017325   Sharma K;Shukla S;Chauhan E S (Research Scholar Dep of Food Science and Nutrition, Banasthali Univ, Rajasthan-304 022) : Evaluation of Aegle marmelos (Bael) as hyperglycemic and hyperlipidemic diminuting agent in type II diabetes mellitus subjects. Pharma Innovation 2016, 5(5), 43-6.

Diabetes mellitus is possibly the world's largest growing metabolic disease. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimates the total number of people in India with diabetes to be around 50.8 million in 2010, rising to 87.0 million by 2030. With such incidence, mere nutrition and medical therapies cannot be relied upon. Currently, a challenge is to identify such healthy foods that remain in the realms of obscurity and to establish them as functional foods to prevent the progression of metabolic complications. Aegle Marmelos is one of the most widely used medicinal and nutraceutical plant. Leaves, fruits, stem and roots of Aegle Marmelos have been used in ethno medicine to exploit its various medicinal properties including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiahrreal, antidiabetic, antiproliferative, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antihyperlipidemic antiasthamtic and antiulcer activities. Therefore, this study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of Aegle Marmelos fruit pulp powder on type II diabetic subjects. Type II diabetic subjects were selected from main campus of Banasthali University, Newai Rajasthan and divided into experimental and control groups (Age group: 30-60 years). Aegle Marmelos fruit pulp powder was incorporated in khakre and administered to the experimental group daily for 60 days. Biochemical evaluations of blood sample of the subjects were done. The present study indicates that Aegle Marmelos fruit pulp powder showed a significant effect on blood glucose and lipid parameters. Aegle Marmelos purport to alleviate the symptoms of diabetes in a natural manner having no side effects on health and inexpensive than other hypoglycemic drugs.

5 tables, 18 ref

017324   Rub R A;Pati M J;Siddiqui A A;Moghe A S; Shaikh N N (Pharmacognosy Dep, M.C.E. Society's Allana College of Pharmacy, Camp, Maharashtra) : Characterization of anticancer principles of Celosia argentea (Amaranthaceae). Pharmacog Res 2016, 8(2), 97-104.

Objectives is to isolate and characterize bioactive compounds of aerial parts of C. argentea and evaluate their anticancer potential. The methanolic aerial part extract was fractionated on column chromatography using chloroform: methanol mixture. The fractions; 80:20 and 95:5 were purified on MCI-HP20 HPLC column. Chromatographically pure compounds were pooled, concentrated and characterized spectroscopically. The compounds were further screened for anti-oxidant and cytotoxic potential. Isolated compounds were confirmed as: (1) Luteolin-7-O-glucoside and (2) phenolic, 1-(4-hydroxy-2-methoxybenzofuran-5-yl)-3-phenylpropane-1,3-dione. Both exhibited significant antioxidant potential with IC₅₀ values of 20.80 and 21.30 μg/ml for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay (P <60> 0.001) and significant Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) values for 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (*P <60> 0.05) and ferric reducing antioxidant potential assay (*P <60> 0.0001). In 3(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazoliumbromide assay, Compound 1 and 2 showed potent cytotoxicity against SiHa, HCT, MCF-7 cancer cell lines at 20 μg/ml (*P <60> 0.0001) and 18 μg/ml (**P <60> 0.01), respectively, without affecting the normal Vero cells. Both compounds enabled maximum reduction in cell viability at 50 μg/ml against HT-29 (P <60> 0.001) and MCF-7 cell lines (**P <60> 0.01) in try pan blue viability assay. Apoptosis occurred at concentrations of 47.33 ± 0.8 μg/ml and 56.28 ± 1.2 μg/ml for Compound 1 and 35.15 ± 0.4 μg/ml and 28.05 ± 0.3 μg/ml for Compound 2 for HT-29 and MCF-7 respectively. A novel anticancer phenolic compound; (1-(4-hydroxy-2-methoxybenzofuran-5-yl)-3-phenylpropane-1,3-dione), isolated from aerial parts of C. argentea was a valuable finding of the research.

18 illus, 15 ref

017323   Roy S;Pawar S;Chowdhary A (NO, , Virology Dep, Haffkine Institute for Training) : Evaluation of In vitro cytotoxic and antioxidant activity of Datural metal Linn. and Cynodon dactylon Linn. extracts. Pharmacog Res 2016, 8(2), 123-7.

Aim is to evaluate in vitro cytotoxicity and antioxidant activity of Datura metel L. and Cynodon dactylon L. extracts. The extraction of plants parts (datura seed and fruit pulp) and areal parts of durva was carried out using soxhlet and cold extraction method using solvents namely methanol and distilled water. The total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) was determined by established methods. The in vitro cytotoxicity assay was performed in vero cell line by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay method. In vitro antioxidant activity of the extract was performed by 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging method. We found that the highest amount of TPC and TFC in methanolic extracts of seed (268.6 μg of gallic acid equivalence/mg of dry plant material) and fruit pulp (8.84 μg of quercetin equivalence/mg dry plant material) of D. metel, respectively prepared by Soxhlet method. The methanolic extract of C. dactylon prepared using soxhlation has shown potent free radical scavenging activity with 50% inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) value of 100 μg/ml. The IC₅₀of a methanolic cold extract of datura fruit was found to be 3 mg/ml against vero cell line. We observed that plant parts of C. dactylon and D. metel have a high antioxidant activity. Further research is needed to explore the therapeutic potential of these plant extracts.

2 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

017322   Rathod R R;Gajera H P;Mehta D R;Delvadiya N A (Biotechnology Dep, Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh-362 001, Email: harsukhgajera@yahoo.com) : Biochemical characterization of ridge gourd and sponge gourd genotypes. Indian J agric Biochem 2015, 28(2), 128-31.

Genetic analysis of ridge gourd and sponge gourd genotypes were performed using protein profiling and isozymes analysis of four enzymes viz., peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, esterase and super oxide dismutase. Fifteen day old seedlings of the genotypes were tested in Native-PAGE for the study of genetic diversity among them. Protein profiling of the genotypes developed nine bands having Rm values of 0.037, 0.075, 0.154, 0.213, 0.266, 0.326, 0.532, 0.584 and 0.663. Out of them, three bands were monomorphic and others were polymorphic. Seventeen ridge gourd and sponge gourd genotypes were grouped into two main clusters I and II with an average similarity of 47 per cent. Four bands of peroxidase isozymes were observed having Rm values of 0.083, 0.236, 0.515 and 0.803. Out of them two bands were polymorphic in nature. Four bands of polyphenol oxidase were detected with Rm values of 0.318, 0.438, 0.570 and 0.686. Out of them two bands were polymorphic in nature. Total five bands of esterase were observed having Rm values of 0.037, 0.102, 0.170, 0.269 and 0.372. Out of them four bands were polymorphic in nature and a band with Rm value 0.102 was monomorphic. Three bands of Rm values 0.246, 0.339 and 0.486 were observed for super oxide dismutase isozymes. The band of Rm value 0.486 was present in all the 17 genotypes and was monomorphic in nature.

3 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

017321   Rasheed N;Alghasham A;Rasheed Z (Medical Biochemistry Dep, College of Medicine, Qassim Univ, Buraidah, KSA) : Lactoferrin from Camelus dromedarius inhibits nuclear transcription factor-kappa B activation, cyclooxygenase-2 expression and prostaglandin E2 production in stimulated human chondrocytes. Pharmacog Res 2016, 8(2), 135-41.

Objectives is to in this study, we examined the effect of lactoferrin on NF-?B activation, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression and prostaglandin E2 (PGE₂) production in stimulated human articular chondrocytes. Human chondrocytes were derived from OA articular cartilage and treated with camel lactoferrin and then stimulated with IL-1β. Gene expression was determined by TaqMan assays and protein expression was studied by Western immunoblotting. NF-?B activity and PGE₂levels were determined by ELISA based assays. NF-?B activity was also determined by treatment of chondrocytes with NF-?B specific inhibitor Bay 11-7082. Lactoferrin inhibited IL-1β-induced activation and nuclear translocation of NF-?B p65 in human OA chondrocytes. Lactoferrin also inhibited mRNA/protein expression of COX-2 and production of PGE₂. Moreover, Bay 11-7082 also inhibited IL-1β-induced expression of COX-2 and production of PGE₂. The inhibitory effect of lactoferrin on the IL-1β induced expression of COX-2 or production of PGE₂was mediated at least in part via suppression of NF-?B activation. The data determine camel lactoferrin as a novel inhibitor of IL-1β-induced activation of NF-?B signaling events and production of cartilage-degrading molecule PGE₂via inhibition of COX-2 expressions. These results may have important implications for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the prevention/treatment of OA and other degenerative/inflammatory diseases.

4 illus, 1 tables, 46 ref

017320   Ranganathan A T;Chandran C R;Pradeep Kumar Y; Parthasardhi T;Cholan P K (Periodontics Dep, Tagore Dental College, Chennai) : Preliminary phytochemical analysis of leaf extracts of delonix elata. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2015, 4(5), 78-82.

Aim of the present study is to analyze the phytochemical constituents present in the leaves of Delonix elata extracted with five different solvents. The leaves of Delonix elata was collected, shade dried and extracted with aqueous, ethanol, chloroform, petroleum ether and acetone. The resultant extract was tested for the presence of phenols, cyanins, quinones, terpenoides, tannins, flavonoids, steroids and glycosides using standard procedures. Aqueous extract was found to be most effective followed by ethanol and the chloroform extract was least effective. Aqueous extract of Delonix elata is found to be rich in phytochemical constituents and can be used for obtaining therapeutic benefits.

1 table, 13 ref

017319   Rajak S K;Thippeswamy V B;Kumaresan A;Layek S S;Mohanty T K;Gaurav M K (Livestock Production Management, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana-132 001, Email: ogkumaresan@rediffmail.com) : Testicular cytology indicates differences in sertoli cell counts between "good freezer" and "poor freezer" bulls. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(1), 17-25.

In artificial insemination, poor quality of semen unsuitable for cryopreservation and susceptibility of spermatozoa to cryodamage in crossbred bulls have been a matter of concern. Present study was designed to identify the testicular cytology indices that might be used to predict the semen quality and cryotolerance of spermatozoa in bulls. Based on the ejaculate rejection rate and sperm cryotolerance, bulls (Holstein Friesian X Tharparkar crossbred) were classified into either good (producing good quality semen with spermatozoa having good cryotolerance; n=4) or poor (producing poor quality semen with spermatozoa having poor cryotolerance; n=4). Testicular cytology was studied in all the 8 bulls using fine needle aspiration technique. Testicular cytology of good bulls and poor bulls differed significantly. The proportion of Sertoli cells was significantly higher in good bulls (25.3±1.6) compared to poor bulls (11.0±0.8). The Sertoli cell index was 46.1±5.0 in good bulls while it was only 13.8±1.3 in poor bulls. The cut off values, as determined using Receiver Operating Characteristics analysis, indicate that the bulls having testicular cytogram comprising of <60>15.5% Sertoli cells, <60>24.3 Sertoli cell index and <62>4.0 spermatogenic cells to Sertoli cell ratio might be a poor bull in terms of semen quality and cryotolerance of spermatozoa. The proportion of Sertoli cells in the testicular cytology had positive (P <60> 0.05) relationship with semen quality and cryotolerance of spermatozoa.

3 illus, 4 tables, 41 ref

017318   Raina A P;Abraham Z (Germplasm Evaluation Div, National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi, Email: aprraina@yahoo.co.in) : Chemical profiling of essential oil of Kaempferia galanga L. germplasm from India. J essential Oil Res 2016, 28(1), 29-34.

Kaempferia galanga L. (Zingiberaceae) commonly known as Kacholam, Kencur or aromatic ginger is an important medicinal plant of India which is extensively used in the preparation of both traditional and modern medicines. K. galanga germplasm collected from southern states of Kerala and Karnataka was evaluated for essential oil content and oil composition. Volatile oil isolated from rhizomes of K. galanga L. by hydrodistillation was analyzed by Gas chromatography (GC) and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Thirty-eight aroma compounds were identified in the rhizome oil representing 96.4% to 98.9% of total oil. The two major compounds identified were trans-ethyl-p-methoxycinnamate (28.4-70.0%) and trans-ethyl cinnamate(11.5-26.6%) which constituted 50.3% to 84.8% of total oil. Other important chemical compounds present were d-3-carene (0.1-6.5%), 1,8-cineole (0.2-5.2%), borneol (1.0-2.4%), pentadecane (6.0-16.5%). Trans-ethyl-p-methoxycinnamate and trans-ethyl cinnamate were found to be the most vital constituents responsible for most of the pharmacological properties of K. galanga plant. Hence, the promising accessions identified in the study could be exploited for large-scale cultivation of this plant for obtaining higher yields of pharmacologically important constituents.

2 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

017317   Rai D K;Pal K;Pal A (Biotechnology Dep, Shri Venkateshwara Univ, Gajirula, Uttar Pradesh) : Molecular characterization of plants of Cuscuta reflexa accessions using the random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) molecular marker. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2015, 4(5), 271-9.

Cuscuta reflexa (Convolvulaceae) is a holoparasitic vine that attacks the aerial parts of many shrubs, trees, and is used immensely in the Indian system of medicine. In this study, the randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) technique was employ ed for Molecular Characterization of six plants of Cuscuta reflexa Accessions Using the Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) Molecular Marker. the RAPD technique was used to analyse the genetic variations in C.reflexa populations collected from six different locations of North India. The RAPD primers were listed in Table 4.5.3 (A and B kits; 5 primers each) were procured from Operon Technologies (USA) and after initial screening, primers OPA02, OPA03, OPB07 and OPB17 were selected on the basis of profiles with each of the template DNA tested. All RAPD reactions were carried out with same cycling conditions and chemicals. Fragment sizes of the amplification products obta ined using RAPD primers were estimated from the gel by comparision with standard molecular weight marker. The amplification profiles of total genomic DNA from six different populations with four random primers produced 95 consistent RAPD markers, ranging in size from 0.2 kb to 2.4 kb; out of which 10 were monomorphic. Pattern of RAPD profiles produced by the primer OPB07 are shown in the figure 4.5.1. From the amplified products of different primers used, two different groups of unique bands were observed. This observation clearly in dicates that the populations of six accessions can be divided in to two clusters. These similarity coefficients were used to generate a tree from cluster analysis using UPGMA method (Figure 4.5.2). The cluster analysis indicates that the six different populations of C.reflexa are grouped in to two major clusters based on similiarity indicies. Among the six populations, three of each cluster showed the highest similarity index (92). The present study provides evidences through RAPD data to show the occurence of genetic variations among different collections of cuscuta reflexa On the basis of the RAPD analysis, the chosen samples have been grouped under two clusters and labelled A and B. The present study s howed maximum similarity indices and minor variations among the populations.

3 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

017316   Phatake Y B;Dharmadhikari S M (Microbiology Dep, Vidya Pratishtans School of Biotechnology, Baramati) : Production of prodigiosin from Serratia marcescens and statistical optimization of production process by using PBD. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2015, 4(5), 146-59.

Natural products either synthesized or secreted by organisms represent one of the important sources of potential medicinal use. One of these natural products is the small molecular weight compounds secreted by organisms having no demonstrable function in the cells and known as secondary metabolite. There are several organisms which can produce pigments, which are one of the important classes of these Secondary metabolites and are often referred to as biopigments. Prodigiosin (Red pigment)-(5[(3-methoxy-5-pyrrol-2-ylidene-pyrrol-2-ylidene) methyl]-2-methyl-3-pentyl 1Hpyrrole) is a secondary metabolite alkaloid with a unique tripyrrole ring, with molecular weight 323.33 Kilodaltons. Spectrum of application of Prodigiosin has widened in many sectors such as clinical, medicinal, and industrial. In the present study potent Prodigiosin producing bacteria (Serratia marcescens) which was previously isolated and characterized from soil sample was used. The produced pigment was characterized by standard qualitative presumptive test of Prodigiosin. To increase the yield of Prodigiosin significant physico-chemical parameter were determine using Plackett-Burman Statistical design. Out 11 parameter selected (KCL, pH, Temperature, Agitation, Inoculum conc., Incubation time, Maltose, Oil substrate, CaCl₂, NaCl and Trace salt), on the basis of F value obtained by PBD statistic four parameter were found to have significant effect on pigment production namely Temperature, Oil substrate, Time of incubation and Sugar concentration for used strain of Serratia marcescens. The selected four parameter were optimized by classical approach which shows notable increase in final Prodigiosin concentration in lab scale studies.

6 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

017315   Pavan Kumar K;Padmalatha T;Pratap M;Reddy S N (NO, College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030, Email: gandhamlatha@yahoo.com) : Effect of plant bio-regulatores on growth, flowering and seed yield in China aster (Callistephus chinensis L. Nees) cv. Kamini. Indian J agric Res 2015, 49(4), 348-52.

Field experiment was conducted to study the effect of plant bio regulators on growth, flowering and seed yield in China aster cv. Kamini at College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during rabi, 2013-14. The experiment was laid in randomized block design and replicated twice. Plant growth regulators viz., GA₃, salicylic acid, maleic hydrazide, alar and paclobutrazol were used in the experiment. The treatments were imposed as foliar sprays twice at 20 and 35 days after transplanting. The observations on growth parameters were recorded at three stages of plant growth viz., 30, 60 and 90 DAT. GA₃ 200 mg/l spray recorded significantly higher plant height (60.10 cm), number of primary branches per plant (24.60) and number of secondary branches per plant (61.45) at 90 DAT, number of flower's per plant (84.96), flower yield per plant (109.66 g), flower yield per hectare (16.58 t), seed yield per plant (9.98 g), seed yield per ha (1509.31 kg) and 1000 seed weight (2.01 g). GA₃ 200 mg/l foliar spray was found to be at par with SA 200 mg/l in respect of number of primary branches (23.86), flower yield per hectare (15.90 t), seed yield per plant (9.85 g) and seed yield per hectare (1489.65 kg). SA 200 mg/l foliar spray could be recommended for increased growth, flower and seed yield in China aster cv. Kamini as it is more cheaper than GA₃.

5 tables, 15 ref

017314   Ojha H;Bajpai M S;Gupta N;Singh S;Mishra P K (Biotechnology Dep, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda Univ, Greater Noida-201 306, Email: pkjbiotech@gmail.com) : Proteomic analysis in seeds of in vitro cultured Glycine max L. cv. Merrill grown under cadmium stress. Indian J agric Biochem 2015, 28(1), 77-80.

Cadmium (Cd^{2+) was subjected to the hydroponically grown Glycine max L. @ 100, 200 and 400μM concentrations and seeds were harvested for antioxidant and protein analysis. A significant (p<62>0.05) increment was recorded in the level of O₂-, H₂O₂ and lipid peroxidation. The production of O₂- was 1.5 folds higher at 400μM concentration as compared to 200μM concentration. H₂O₂ and lipid peroxidation showed maximum increment at extreme dose of treatment. Cadmium stress intervened the specific activity of enzymatic antioxidant viz. catalase, superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase andnon-enzymatic antioxidants viz. ascorbic acid, proline and glutathione. SDS-PAGE of total protein was carried out for total seed protein analysis under Cd2+ stress.}

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

017313   Murali D;Rambabu C (Biochemistry Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India-522 510) : Estimation of oxolamine phosphate by stability indicating HPLC method: method development and validation. Rasayan J Chem 2016, 9(1), 67-76.

The aim of the present study was to develop a stability-indicating HPLC method with UV detection for the determination of oxolamine phosphate in oral syrup. Oxolamine phosphate was eluted on the Intersil CN (250 x 4.6 mm, i.e., particle size of 5 μm) analytical column with a mobile phase consisting of 0.1% formic acid and acetonitrile, 50:50 v/v, pumped at 0.7 mL/min flow rate. The column was maintained at 25±2°C and 20 μl of the solution was injected. UV detection was performed at 292 nm. The procedure eluted the analyte in an overall run time 5 min with oxolamine phosphate eluting at about 2.277 min. The method was validated according to the regulatory guidelines with respect to system suitability, linearity, sensitivity, specificity, precision, accuracy, ruggedness and robustness. Forced degradation studies were performed for oxolamine phosphate oral syrup sample to demonstrate the stability-indicating power of the method. The procedure provided a linear response over the concentration range 50-150 μg/mL (R^{2 = 0.9998). The applicability of the method was evaluated in the oral syrup form.}

6 illus, 8 tables, 13 ref

017312   Mohammad H;Ebenezer J;Singh S;Masih H (Microbiology and Fermentation Technology (MBFT) Dep, Jacob School of Biotechonology and Engineering (JSBB), Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences (SHIATS), Naini, Allahabad-211 007, Email: hafeezmohdmicro@gmail.com) : Screening, production and optimization of α-amylase from agro-waste substrate by Bacillus licheniformis with solid state fermentation. Res Envir Life Sci 2015, 8(4 suppl), 721-4.

Microbial α-amylase used as extensive commercial applications in various sectors and it is highly demanded industrial enzyme. The studies were carried out with a bacterial strain producing extracellular α-amylase, the effects of moisture content, initial pH, incubation period, incubation temperature, different carbon and nitrogen sources, and different substrate and phasphate concentrations of the medium were optimized. The results reveal that out of the seven substrates, and five extraction medium, sugarcane bagasse with combination of tween-80 was found to yield maximum α-amylase (156.81 IU) under solid state fermentation by Bacillus licheniniformis. The amylases from the bacterium showed optimal activity at 24 h and 40±C with moisture content 80%, inoculum size 6 ml, initial pH 6. The peak enzyme activity was observed while supplementing maltose as carbon, ammonium chloride and soybean meal as nitrogen (inorganic and organic) source and 0.01M phosphate concentration in the substrate. The thermostability and the characteristics of the enzyme suggest that this is a promising isolate which produce good quality enzyme and merits further investigations for potential applications in various biotechnological applications.

10 tables, 21 ref

017311   Misra B;Saha A;Chowdhury S (NO, BCDA College of Pharmacy and Technology, 78 Jessore Road (S), Kolkata-700 127) : Biofuel: an attempt to combat future fuel demand. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2015, 4(5), 288-99.

Biofuel is defined as any fuel whose energy is obtained by a biological process of carbon fixation. In other words, the process which can converts carbon dioxide into a molecule that can be found in a living organism is carbon fixation. Rapid depletion of fossil fuel, gradually increasing the demand for fuel in future, the due to the exhaust emission of the fossil fuel causing global warming and climate change, has led to search for finding the alternative solution regarding the energy has been put forward. The prime requirements for a biofuel the starting material must be CO₂, can also be made in a laboratory or industrial setting, through chemical reactions using organic matter. A forthcoming energy crisis will seize our social and economic growth if we do not change our usual practice and selection of energy source. Research has shown that internal combustion engines designed for petroleum fuels usage, which not suitable for long time operation on biofuel. Considering all the pros and cons and fuel properties this can be comprehended that multi-functional fuel additives may make biodiesels more engine compatible, but it will increases its price.

3 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

017310   Mawlong I;Ali K;Tyagi A (Biochemistry Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi-110 012, Email: at_bio@iari.res.in) : Clonig and characterization of a water deficit stress responsive transcription factor gene form Oryza sativa L.. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(1), 26-36.

Understanding the biochemical and molecular basis of drought mechanism in rice is important as drought is one of the major causes affecting rice crop adversely. A 1017 bp gene sequence encoding AP2/ERF family TF was isolated from Oryza sativa sp. Indica cv N22 encoding a protein of 338 amino acid residues, with a molecular weight of 36.58 kDa, and no intron in the ORF. The gene was named as AP2/ERF-N22(2) different from the drought responsive gene AP2/ERF-N22 that we reported earlier. AP2/ERF-N22(2) has entirely different characteristics from that of AP2/ERF-N22. It has a single AP2 domain of 55 amino acid residues and a cluster of acidic amino acid residues at the C-terminal region, which could function as a trans-activation domain. Presence of NLS indicates that it is a nuclear localized transcription factor encoding gene. It falls in group VI L, sharing characteristic similarities. Arabidopsis members of group VI L have been shown to be involved in response to cytokinin under drought stress.

10 illus, 46 ref

017309   Marathe R J;More N S;Phatake Y B;Sonawane A M (NO, , School of Biotechnology, Campus-11, KIIT Univ, Bhubaneswar, Orissa-751 024) : Degradation of synthetic dyes by novel Pseudomonas aeruginosa 6A (BC4) strain and optimization of the degradation process using statistical design.. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2015, 4(5), 405-24.

Dyeing is a process widely used in textile industries. The effluents from these industries are disposed without a proper treatment into the water bodies which causes environmental pollution. Biodegradation is the biological method in which the potent organisms are used to degrade these harmful dyes. In this study previously isolated and characterized strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from the soil was used. For the dye degradation experiment Mineral Salt Medium (MSM) was used. Different dyes with concentrations ranging from 25 to 100 ppm were incorporated in the MSM medium and the decolorization was studied by spectroscopic observations after every 24 h. Fuchsin Basic had shown maximum decolorization (45) at 25 ppm after 72 h, so this dye is selected for further study. Plackett- Burman Design was used for selection of parameters which significantly affect the degradation process. The selected parameter was further optimized by classical approach. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was found to be very effective in removal of Fuchsin Basic when 1 ml Inoculum (in MSM) was incubated at pH 7.0 and at 37°C for 72 h. The dye degrading ability of immobilized cells were also studied by using calcium alginate beads which showed significantly more decolorization (62.76 ) within72 has compared to unimmobilized cells.

7 illus, 11 ref, 41 ref

017308   Malathi R;Ganesan V (Center for Research and Post Graduate Studies in Botany, Ayya Nadar Janaki Ammal College, Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu) : Comparing the possible mechanism in the reducing ability of leaves of two higer plants in the synthesis of gold nanoparticles. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2015, 4(5), 102-15.

In this study, we report the comparison of the possible mechanism in the reducing ability of leaves of two higher plants, Sebastiania chamaelea and Rhynchosia minima in the synthesis of gold nanoparticles. We collected leaves of aforesaid plants and prepared respective leaf broths, SLB and RLB separately. These leaf broths exposed to 1mM aqueous solution of gold chloride and they are known as respective reaction media SRM and RRM. They were kept in an incubator cum shaker with 250 rpm at 27° C for 24 hours. The SLB and RLB are pale yellow in colour before incubation and they slowly turned to ruby-red in colour within 24 hrs of incubation. It indicates the formation of gold nanoparticles. UV-visible spectroscopic analysis reveals the Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) vibrations of gold nanoparticles that are synthesized in SRM and RRM, which have λ max at 575 nm and 530 nm respectively. FTIR analysis explains that the biomolecules in the leaf broth are responsible for the synthesis and stability of gold nanoparticles. The XRD analysis helps to calculate the approximate size of the metal nanoparticles. The EDX analysis confirms the presence of elemental gold. The SEM and TEM analyses reveal the size of the synthesized gold nanoparticles using Sebastiania chamaelea and Rhynchosia minima were ranged from 30 to 50nm. This protocol brings a green route as it does not involve any toxic chemicals and physical processes and we compared the possible mechanism in the reducing ability of leaves of aforesaid two higher plants.

13 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

017307   Madegowda B H;Rameshwaran P;Nagaraju N P; Murthy P S (Spices & Flavour Technology Dep, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore, Email: pushpa@cftri.res.in) : In-vitro mycological activity of essential oil from Zingiber zerumbet rhizomes. J essential Oil Res 2016, 28(1), 81-8.

The volatile oil (1.12%) from the Z. zerumbet rhizomes were extracted using Clevenger's distillation. The GC and GC-MS profile of the Z. zerumbet volatiles revealed several components of which Zerumbone was the principal compound (49.8%) followed by α-Caryophyllene (20.1%) and trace of other compounds. The antifungal property of volatiles was studied against Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus ochraceus. The fungal species were susceptible to volatiles, and the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) was 160 ppm for A. flavus and 175 ppm for A. ochraceus.The studies with the food toxigenic organisms treated with volatiles were significant. It revealed substantial inhibition of mycelia, spore germination, reduction in biomass, carbohydrate, protein, chitin and genetic constituents. The inhibitory action of zerumbet volatile oil on A. flavus and A. ochraceus involves cell wall damage and distortion in the metabolism. The SEM of A. flavus and A. ocharceus illustrates that treatment with the oil leads to distortion of hyphae and the absence of conidiophores. The Z. zerumbet volatiles (100 ppm) were found to be antimycotoxin on maize as food substrates and were dose-dependent on confirmation by HPLC. Z. zerumbet oil is potentially useful as biopreservative because of its antifungal and antimycotoxin efficacy.

3 illus, 4 tables, 30 ref

017306   Kotoky J;Sharma K K;Deori N;Mudoi T;Devi R (Division of Life Sciences, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati-781 035, Email: rajiasst@gmail.com) : Antioxidant potential and polyphenol content of ten medicinal plants from North Eastern region of India. Indian J agric Biochem 2015, 28(1), 84-6.

Ten ethno-medicinally important plants of North East India were selected to evaluate their in vitro antioxidant activity. In vitro antioxidant activity of the methanolic extract of the leaves of these medicinal plants was tested using two well establised methods, DPPH free radical scavenging activity and reducing power assay. Polyphenol content of these medicinal plants was determined by the Folin Ciocalteu method. The methanolic extract of all the plants showed a concentration dependent DPPH free radical scavenging activity. Out of ten medicinal plants, Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, Vinca rosea, Xanthium strumarium, Lawsonia inermis, Solanum indicum, Pongamia pinnata, Jatropha curcas showed higher reducing power. The leaves of all plants possessed good source of polyphenolic compounds which varied between 11 to 56 mg g^{-1. Present study revealed that these plants are of therapeutic potential due to their high free-radical scavenging activity and may be used in further drug development research.}

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

017305   Jumin H B (Agro-Technology Dep, Faculty of Agriculture, Islamic Univ of Riau, JI. Kaharuddin Nasution No. 113. Perhentian Marpoyan Pekanbaru, 28284 Indonesia, Email: hbjumin@gmail.com) : Somatic embryogenesis derived from protoplast of Murraya paniculata L. jack and their regeneration in to plant flowering In vitro. Ecol Envir Conserv 2015, 21(4), 1695-1704.

The in vitro flowering of orange jessamine plantlets derived from protoplast was affected by the manipulation of plant growth regulators, sugar and light conditions. MT basal medium containing 5% sucrose and supplemented with 0.001 mg L^{-1 indole-acetic-acid was found to be a suitable medium for development of globular somatic embryos derived from protoplasts to form heart-shaped somatic embryos with cotyledonlike structures. The highest percentage (85%) of flowering was achieved with plantlet on half-strength MT basal medium containing 5% sucrose and 0.001 mg L-1 indole-acetic-acid in light. Exposure to darkness for more than 3 weeks followed by re-exposure to light reduced flowering. Flowering required a 10-day exposure to indole-acetic-acid. Photoperiod with 18 h and 79.4 μmolm-2 s-1 light intensity promoted in vitro flowering in high frequencies. The sucrose treatment affected the flower bud size distribution. Flower buds originating from plantlet derived from protoplasts developed into normal flowers.}

5 illus, 4 tables, 58 ref

017304   Jain M;Shrivastava A;Malviya P;Vaishnav J (School of Biochemistry, Devi Ahilya Univ, Takshashila Campus, Khandwa Road, Indore-452 001, Email: mjjainmeera@gmail.com) : Comparative evaluation of biochemical characteristics in three genotypes of maize (Zea mays). Indian J agric Biochem 2015, 28(1), 61-4.

Development of agronomically adopted varieties of maize with improved amino acid balance benefits livestock producers and people who depend on maize for dietary protein. The present study was carried out with an aim to compare and evaluate growth and biochemical characteristics in three genotypes of maize, GSF-2 and two quality protein maize (QPM) inbred lines, CM-137 and CM-138. Germination rate, root and shoot length regarded as growth parameters have shown to be significantly higher in CM-137 and CM-138 genotypes than the GSF-2. Protein and RNA contents were found higher in the leaves of GSF-2 than the quality protein maize genotypes, indicating high metabolic activity of the former. Total protein content and amino acid lysine and tryptophan contents in the seed flour of CM-137 and CM-138 were higher than GSF-2 genotype. Higher proline content was noted in QPM varieties than the GSF-2; however, the total phenolic content was higher and same for CM-137 and GSF-2. Quality protein maize varieties indicated more resistance towards drought and heavy metals, which could be correlated with higher proline levels in seed. Salinity had no significant effect on all the three genotypes. Results indicated significant increase in growth, protein, lysine and tryptophan content in quality protein maize genotypes, CM-137 and CM-138 than GSF-2.

1 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

017303   Gull M;Alsaleh L A;Mehmood M A;Kausar A; Kumosani T A (Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdul Aziz Univ, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia) : Growth, origin and applied potential of embryonic stem cells: a recent fact sheet about stem cell therapies as a promising option for incurable diseases in humans. Pharma Innovation 2016, 5(5), 9-13.

Undifferentiated inner mass cells of a human embryo represents the major source of embryonic stem cells. These embryonic stem cells are pluripotent in nature showing that they can differentiate into all the derivatives of three primary germ layers which are ectoderm, endoderm and mesoderm. They have a potential to develop into each of the more than 200 cell types of an adult body when they are instructed or specified to do so. Embryonic stem cells have two unique properties: (1) they replicate to create many more stem cells and (2) they can grow into different types of cells throughout the body like liver, muscle, bone, nerve, etc. In fact, certain types of adult stem cells could replicate for several months outside of the body in the laboratory, creating more stem cells that are used in different medical treatments. Scientists are trying to develop new medical solutions capable of enhancing the capacity and potential for growth and healing available in embryos and very useful in later stages of adult life. These novel capabilities and strategies present in embryonic stem cells could regenerate or replenish tissues or specialized cells damaged by Alzheimer's, cancer and other chronic and fatal diseases and which can leads towards death. By utilization of embryonic stem cells as a tool, more knowledge about body development and maturity could be explored and utilized in therapeutics. In medical science, the cutting edge technology of stem cells and its discoveries about hidden potential within the cells of our own bodies could make wonders. Conclusively, this review summarizes that the use of human embryonic stem cells as therapy with respect to in vitro propagation and differentiation as well as their use in basic cell and developmental biology particularly for various tissue regeneration and transplantation is a profitable investment in future for ourselves and for coming generations.

31 ref

017302   Goudarzi T;Saharkhiz M J;Rowshan V;Taban A (Horticultural Sciences Dep, Faculty of Agriculture, Shiraz Univ, Shiraz, Iran, Email: saharkhiz@shirazu.ac.ir) : Changes in essential oil content and composition of tansy (Tanacetum vulgare L.) under foliar application of salicylic and orthophosphoric acids. J essential Oil Res 2016, 28(1), 64-70.

The essential oil (EO) content and composition of Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare L.) were studied under foliar application of salicylic acid (SA) and orthophosphoric acid (P). Gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were employed to determine the chemical composition of EOs from the plant. Different concentrations of SA (0, 150, 300, and 450 ppm) and P (0, 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2%) were applied to the plant at different stages of growth including vegetative, floral budding, and full flowering. Based on the results, SA, P and SA x P significantly (p ≤ 0.05) affected the EO content and chemical composition of the plant. The EO contents (w/w %) ranged from 0.65% to 1%. The total of 29-37 components were identified in the EO samples. The major EO compounds under different SA, P, and SA x P treatments were camphene (0.6-6.2%), sabinene (0.4-6.1%), camphor (4.2-30.4%), trans-thujone (2.4-54%), trans-chrysanthenyl acetate (0.8-52.1%) and germacrene D (2.9-5.7%).

3 tables, 36 ref

017301   Goswami P;Chauhan A;Verma R S;Padalia R C; Verma S K;Darokar M P;Chanotiya C S (NO, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Research Centre, Pantnagar-263 149, Email: padaliarc@rediffmail.com) : Composition and antibacterial activity of the essential oil of Artemisia nilagirica var.septentrionalis from India. J essential Oil Res 2016, 28(1), 71-6.

Essential oil composition of the aerial parts of Artemisia nilagirica (Clarke) Pamp. var. septentrionalis Pamp. was analyzed by GC-FID and GC-MS methods. Altogether forty-one constituents were identified, accounting for 95.9% of total composition. The essential oil was characterized by monoterpenoids (76.6%) represented by artemisia ketone (62.6%), artemisia alcohol (3.7%), perillene (3.1%), bornyl acetate (1.4%), along with sesquiterpenoids (16.1%) viz. β-caryophyllene (3.5%), δ-muurolol (3.5%), d-cadinene (2.1%) and germacrene D (1.8%). Essential oil was tested against nine pathogenic bacterial strains viz. Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 96), Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 2940), Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella typhimurium. Based on zone of inhibition and MIC/MBC results, it is concluded that the essential oil of A. nilagirica var. septentrionalis exhibited good antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC-2940), Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC-96) and Bacillus subtilis, and moderate activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Salmonella typhimurium, and Streptococcus mutans.

1 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

017300   Gevariya S N;Gajera H P;Savaliya D D;Golakiya B A (Biochemistry and Biotechnology Dep, College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh-362 001, Email: harsukhgajera@yahoo.com) : Phytochemical screening and antioxidant activity of Syzygium cumini L. fruit extracts. Indian J agric Biochem 2015, 28(1), 65-9.

Phytochemical investigation was carried out on four successive extracts (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, methanol andwater) of Syzygium cumini Linn. (black jamun) fruit parts. The extractive yield increased with increasing polarity of solvents. Preliminary phytochemical screening indicated presence of alkaloids, amino acids, anthraquinones, flavanoids, glycosides, phenol, saponins, steroids, tannins, triterpenoids, antioxidant and antidiabetic activities in pulp, kernel, seedand seed coat of this fruit. The different extracts showed presence of following compounds in various fruit parts. The seed and kernel contained more of alkaloids, flavanoids and glycosides and fruit pulp contained more of anthraquinones, glycosides, saponins and triterpenoids. Antioxidant activity was recorded high in seed and their parts when extracted inmethanol and water. Petroleum ether and ethyl acetate fractions showed poor in antioxidant activity in all fruit parts. Antidiabetic activity of methanol fraction is found to be high followed by the water fraction particularly in seed and kerneltissues. Among the fruit parts, seed had high antidiabetic activity followed by the kernel. Pulp tissues have antidiabeticactivity in methanol fraction.

3 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

017299   Geeta Kaur;Verma O;Dubey P K (Agronomy Dep, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant Univ. of Agriculture & Techonology, Pantnagar-263 145) : Influence of seed rate and seed invigoration techniques to improve emergence, growth and yield of late sown wheat. Res Envir Life Sci 2015, 8(3), 399-402.

The impact of seed rate (100, 120 and 140 kg ha^{-1) and seed invigoration treatments (control, hydro-priming for 18 hrs at 20°C, GA₃ priming at 500 ppm GA₃ solution for 18 hrs at 20°C, low temperature hardening for 18 hrs followed by chilling temperature (5 ± 2°C) for 24 hrs and osmo-priming at -3 bar solution of PEG-6000 for 96 hrs at 20°C) on crop performance were evaluated under late sown wheat. Initial plant population (m-2) improved significantly with increase in seed rate. Seed rate of 120 kg ha-1 showed the earliest emergence and first tiller formation. It was significantly superior to 140 kg seed ha-1 and at par with 100 kg seed ha-1. Similarly more leaf area (cm2 shoot-1) and leaf dry weight (mg shoot-1) was observed with 120 kg of seed rate. Higher seed rate improved LAI at 90 day after sowing than that of lower seed ha-1. In case of priming treatments, low temperature hardening increases the speed and uniformity of emergence and first tiller formation than non primed seed. In low temperature hardening plant population also increased by 11.2% over control seed. There was no effect of invigoration treatments on leaf area at 100 DAS. Significantly highest LAI was observed with control at 90 days after sowing which was significantly at par with hydro-priming and osmo-priming. No significant variation was recorded in grains spike-1, number of productive shoots and grain yield due to different seed rate and priming treatments.}

1 table, 10 ref

017298   Garland S M;Menary R C (School of Agricultural Sciences, Tasmania Univ, Hobart, Australia, Email: sandra.garland@utas.edu.au) : Sub-critical carbon dioxide extraction of the hexane extract of the leaves of Tasmannia lanceolata. J essential Oil Res 2016, 28(1), 55-63.

The extraction of Tasmannia lanceolata concrete using liquid CO₂ at sub-critical conditions of pressure and temperature was investigated. A pilot-scale extractor was modified to include a second liquid metering pump for the recycling of the re-condensed CO₂. Phase equilibrium was the controlling thermodynamic element in the rate of oil extraction while mass balance transfer dominated the solubilities of lower molecular weight, non-polar individual components. Polygodial, as the heaviest and highest oxygenated component, had a different apparent solubility to the lower monoterpenes and a solubility minimum was observed for this di-aldehyde at pressures in the order of 110 bar and at temperatures of 20° to 24°. The large variation in density associated with liquid carbon dioxide as it approaches critical temperature and pressure provides for higher selectivity of extraction.

7 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

017297   Gangwar M;Singh V;Pandey A K;Tripathi C K M; Mishra B N (Biotechnology Dep, Institute of Engineering and Technology, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Email: bnmishra@ietlucknow.edu) : Purification and characterization of chitinase from Streptomyces violascens NRRL B2700. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(1), 64-71.

Chitinase is one of the important enzymes as it is directly linked to Chitin that has wide applications in industrial, medical and commercial fields for its biocompatibility and biodegradability. Here, we report extracellular chitinase production by Streptomyces violascens NRRL B2700 under submerged fermentation condition. Chitinase production started after 10 h of incubation and reached to maximum level at 72 h of cultivation. Studies on the influence of additional carbon and nitrogen sources on chitinase production revealed that maltose, xylose, fructose, lactose, soybean meal and ammonium nitrate served as good carbon and nitrogen sources to enhance chitinase yield by 1.6 to 6 fold. Medium supplemented with 1% colloidal chitin produced high chitinase concentration (0.1714 U/mg). The enzyme chitinase was purified from the culture broth by 75% ammonium sulphate precipitation, DEAE-cellulose ion-exchange and sephadex G-100 gel filtration. The molecular mass of the purified chitinase was 65 kDa as estimated by SDS-PAGE. The apparent Michaelis constant (K_m) and the maximum rate (V_max) of the enzyme for colloidal chitin were 1.556 mg/mL and 2.680 μM/min/mg, respectively suggested high affinity towards chitin. Possibly, it is the first report on production of chitinase from S. violascens NRRL B2700. The findings were encouraging, especially for cost effective production, and further warrants media and purification optimization studies for enhanced yield.

6 illus, 3 tables, 42 ref

017296   Donipati P;Sreeramulu S H (NO, V.S. Krishna Govt. College, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh) : In vitro bioevaluation of antioxidant activity in Curcuma caesia. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2015, 4(5), 179-84.

Curcuma caesia is commonly known as kali haldi and it belongs to the family Zingiberaceae. This herb is available throughout north-east, central India, Papi Hills of East Godavari, West Godavari, and Andhra Pradesh. In the traditional system of medicine, fresh and dried rhizomes of Curcuma caesia Roxb are used. The present study was undertaken to compare the antioxidant activity of hexane, chloroform and methanolic extract of rhizomes between PHENOLS, ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP), IRON REDUCTION TEST, Diphenyl picrial hydrazyl radical scavenging assay (DPPH). A graph is plotted between enzymatic, non enzymatic antioxidant levels and concentration. The results showed that, IRON REDUCTION TEST has more hexane, chloroform and methanolic concentrations than Diphenyl picrial hydrazyl radical scavenging assay (DPPH), PHENOLS, ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP).

1 illus, 18 ref

017295   Choudhary S;Jagmeer Kaur;Sarvir Kaur;Sarbjit Kaur;Inderjit Singh;Sarvjeet Singh (Botany Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: jagskaur@pau.edu) : Evaluation of antinutritional factors in kabuli chickpea cultivars differing in seed size. Indian J agric Biochem 2015, 28(1), 94-7.

Present investigation was aimed to investigate antinutritional factors in small, medium and bold seeded kabuli chickpea cultivars. Antinutritional traits such as total phenolic content, saponins, bound fructose increased with seed size. Trypsin inhibitor and phytic acid contents were higher in medium-seeded category than other two seed size categories. Phytic acid content and bound fructose was found to be minimum respectively in bold and small seeded cultivars. A dendrogram constructed on the basis of UPGMA clustering method clustered the cultivars into three clusters and a small seeded cultivar GLK26155 remain unclustered from other cultivars and it had lower amount of antinutritional factors. The observed diversity in nutritional traits in kabuli cultivars differing in seed size could be further used in breeding programme.

^ssc2 illus, 4 tables, 11 ref

017294   Chavan R D;Shinde P;Girkar K;Madage R; Chowdhary A (Virology and Immunology Dep, Haffkine Institute for Training Research and Testing, Parel) : Assessment of anti-influenza activity and hemagglutination inhibition of Plumbaga indica and Allium sativum extracts. Pharmacog Res 2016, 8(2), 105-11.

Objectives is to evaluate anti-influenza activity from Plumbago indica and Allium sativum extract against Influenza A (H1N1)pdm09. Different extraction procedures were used to isolate the active ingredient in the solvent system, and quantitative HPLTC confirms the presence of plumbagin and allicin. The cytotoxicity was carried out on Madin-Darby Canine kidney cells, and the 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC₅₀) values were below 20 mg/mL for both plant extracts. To assess the anti-influenza activity, two assays were employed, simultaneous and posttreatment assay. A. sativum methanolic and ethanolic extracts showed only 14% reduction in hemagglutination in contrast to P. indica which exhibited 100% reduction in both simultaneous and posttreatment assay at concentrations of 10 mg/mL, 5 mg/mL, and 1 mg/mL. The results suggest that P. indica extracts are good candidates for anti-influenza therapy and should be used in medical treatment after further research.

11 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref