007312   Harish R;Sumitha C M;Mohamed Hatha A A (Department of Aquaculture and Fishery Microbiology, MES Ponnani College, Ponnani 679 586) : Prevalence and Antibiotic sensitivity of Escherichia coli in extensive brackish water aquaculture ponds. Fish Technol 2003, 40(1), 8-12.

Prevalence and antibiotic resistance of Escherichia coli in the water and sediment samples of brackish water aquaculture ponds adjacent to Cochin backwaters was analysed. More than 50% of the water samples and more than 80% of sediment samples from all the sampling stations were tested positive for E. coli Risk assessment of the E. coli strains was caried out using multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) indexing. Majority of the strains were found to be multiple antibiotic resistant suggesting their origin from high risk sources of contamination such as human where antibiotics are frequently used. While none of the E. coli strains were resistant agaisnt amikacin, chloramphenicol, streptomycin and trimethoprim, penicilin G and vancomycin. High prevalence of E. coli in the water and sediment samples of this extensive brackish water ponds indicates high degreeo f faecal pollution of this environment. The high risk nature of the strains warrants efficient post harvest and processing measures to avoid health risk to consumers.

3 tables, 12 ref

007311   Garg S K;Garg K M;Sabir M (Dep of Pharmacology and Toxicology, U P Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Veterinary Science University and Catt, Mathura 281 001) : Evaluation of tocolytic efficacy of selective beta₂ adrenoceptor agonists on buffalo uterus. Indian J expl Biol 2004, 42(9), 913-8.

Present study was conducted on prostaglandin F_2alpha (PGF_2α), oxytocin, (OT), potassium chloride (KCI) and barium chloride (BaCl₂) pre-contracted permetrial ulterine strips of dioestrus and pregnant buffaloes to evaluate the tocolytic efficacy of selective β₂ adrenoceptor agonists-albuterol (salbutamol) and terbutaline. Cumulative concentration-response curves of both the β₂ adrenoceptor agonists were constructed and the mean effective concentration (EC₅₀) values determiend and compared statistically. Based on the comparative EC₅₀ values in relaxing the pre-contracted uterine strips with different spasmogens, the rank order potency of albuterol was found to be - PGF_2α<62>BaCl₂<62>O T<62>KCI on uterine strips from dioestrus animals, while OT<62>BaCl₂<62>PGF_{2Ω<62>KCI on the uterine strips of pregnant buffaloes. The rank order potency of terbutaline on uterine strips from dioestrus stage animals was - BaCl2}<62>OT<62>KCI<62>PGF _2α, whiel BaCl2α<62>KCI<62>OT on uterine tissues of pregnant animals. Thus, irrespective of the state of uterus, whether gravid or non-gravid, KCI-depolarized uterine tissues required comparatively higher concentrations of albuterol or terbutaline to produce tocolytic effect. High concentrations of K⁺ in biophase may have interfered with the β₂ adrenoceptor agonists-induced outward K⁺ current and hyperpolarization. From the results of present study, it was evident that selective β₂ adrenergic agonists had good tocolytic efficacy on the uterus of buffaloes. Further, indirectly the possibility of existence and activation of K_ca channels by selective β2 adrenoceptor agonists in mediating tocolysis of buffalo myometrium can not be ruled out, however, detailed studies using specific K_ca channel blockers are required for characterizing the nature of such channels in buffalo uterus.

2 illus, 18 ref

007310   Edwin Leela;Hridayanathan C (School of Industrial Fisheries, Cochin University of Science and Technology, ) : Selective Effect of ring seines. Fish Technol 2003, 40(1), 55-56.

^ssc2 illus, 8 ref

007309   Dutta N K;Asok Kumar K;Mazumdar K;Dastidar G (Dep of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Calcutta 700 032) : In vitro and in vivo antimycobacterial activity of antiinflammatory drug, diclofenac sodium. Indian J expl Biol 2004, 42(9), 922-7.

The non-sterodial antiinflammatoy drug diclofenac sodium exhibited remarkable inhibitory action against both drug sensitive and drug resistant clinical isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, as well as other mycobacteria. This agent was tested in vitro against 45 different strainso f mycobacteria, most of which were inhibited by the drug at 10-25 μg/ml concentration. When tested in vivo,diclofenac, injected at 10 mg/kg body weight of a Swiss strain of white mice, could significantly protect them when challenged with a 50 median lethal dose of M. tuberculosis H₃₇ Rv102. According to Chi-square test, the in vivo data were highly significant (P<60>0.01).

3 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

007308   Dhanya C R;Gayathri N S;Mithra K;Neelakantan K V;Kurup P A (Metabolic Disorders Research Center, , Trivandrum 695 014) : Vitamin Eprevents deleterious effects of di (2-ethyl hexyl) phthalate, a plasticizier used in PVC blood storage bags. Indian J expl Biol 2004, 42(9), 871-5.

Vitamin E administration prevented DEHP induced deleterious effects like (i) degenerative changes in the brain and thyroid (ii) decrease in the activity of neuronal membrane Na⁺-K⁺ ATPase, (iii) decrease in the concentration of insulin, cortisol and TSH, and (iv) the increase in T3 and T₄ in female Albino rats. The results suggest use of vitamin E to prevent harmful effects of repeated transfusion of DEHP containing blood as in thalassemia patient. The possibility of using vitamin E to prevent the harmful effects of repeated transfusion of DEHP containing blood, as in thalassemia patients, is discussed.

2 illus, 1 tables, 23 ref

007307   Deshmukh C C;Doshi A G;Deshmukh C M (Department of Chemistry, Vidyabharti Mahavidyalaya, Amravati) : Thermodynamic parameters and viscosity behaviour of substituted acrylo phenone and its complexes. Ultra Scient phys Sci 2003, 15(3), 442-4.

Viscosity measurement have been made on system 2-hydroxy-3-nitro-5-chloro-β (furyl) acrylo phenone in acetone as a solvent with Fe(II), Ni(II), Co(II), Cu(II), Cr(II) and Mn(II) at different temperatures. The data have been used to calculate viscosity and thermodynamic parameters such as ∨G*. ∨H* and ∨S*. It has been found that for ligand-metal complex viscosity decreases with increase in temperature.

2 tables, 12 ref

007306   Braj Mohan;Singh D P;Thiagarajan R (Research Centre of Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, , Mumbai 400 703) : Adoption of recommended practices by fish processing plants in Kerala. Fish Technol 2003, 40(1), 50-4.

An attempt has been made to explore the extent of a adoption of practices identified by the Central Institute of Fisheries Technology for fish freezing and fish processing plants and the influence of socio-economic factors on the adoption. Practices such as sanitary conditions of processing unit, maintaining temperature of cold storage, personal hygiene of workers and glazing the material before/after freezing showed higher level of adoption. However, use of deodorants, use of recommended packing materials for individually quick frozen shrimps and use of recommended containers for transportation showed lower level of adoption.

3 illus, 3 tables, 8 ref

007305   Bhawara H S;Kango N;Shukla P;Guru A K (NO, , Santinagar, Near Ram Mandir, Raipur 492 001) : Ferric chloride as a spotting reagent for pyrethroids in thin layer chromatography. Indian J Envir Toxicol 2002, 12(2), 94.

A new spoting reagent, ferric chloride, has been suggested in the thin layer chromatographic identification of fenvalerate and cypermethin in pesticide formulations. This spray reagent was found to be suitable for routine analysis.

1 illus

007304   Bayat M;Hekmat H;Ansari A (Anatomy Department and Cell and Molecular Research Center, Medical Fac, Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, P O Box 19395/4719, Iran) : Effect of low-power helium-neon laser irradiation on 13-week immobilized articular cartilage of rabbits. Indian J expl Biol 2004, 42(9), 866-70.

Influence of low-power (632.8 nm, Helium-Neon, 13 J/cm², thre times a week) laser on 13-week immobilized articular cartilage was examined with rabbits knee model. Number of chondrocytes and depth of articular cartilage of experimental group were significantly higher than those of sham irradiated group. Surface morphology of sham-irradiated group had rough prominences, fibrillation and lacunae but surface morphology of experimental group had more similarities to control group than to sham irradiated group. There were marked differences between ultrastructure features of control group and experimental group in comparison with sham irradiated group. Low-power Helium-Neon laser irradiation on 13-week immobilized knee joints of rabbits neutrilized adverse effects of immobilization on articular cartilage.

3 illus, 17 ref

007303   Baluja S;Vaishnani K P (Department of Chemistry, Saurashtra University, Rajkot 360 005) : Theoretical evaluation of viscosity in binary systems. Ultra Scient phys Sci 2003, 15(3), 429-32.

Viscosity of three binary systems: anisole + methanol + anisole + chloro-form and anisole + dimethyl fomamide (DMF) at different compositions have been measured at 303 K and compared with theoretical values calculated by using various empirical relations. Fairly good agreement between experimental and theoretical values, calculated by different theories. are observed in all the three systems: Further, an attempt has been made to study the intermolecular interactions in the three systems in terms of excess free energy of mixing, strength of interaction parameter and interaction energy. It is observed that interactions can be estimated in binary systems both qualitatively and quantitatively.

2 tables, 15 ref

007302   Balasubramanian S;Pal S;Bagchi B (Chemistry and Physics of Materials Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Jakkur, Bangalore 560 064) : Identity, energy, environment, and dynamics of interfacial water molecules in a micellar solution. J Indian Inst Sci 2003, 83(1-2), 27-51.

The structure and energetics of interfacial water molecules in the aqueous micelle of cesium perfluorooctanoate have been investigated using large scale atomistic molecular dynamics simulations, with the primary objective of classifying them. The simulations show that the water molecules at the interface fall into two broad classes, bound (IBW) and free (IFW), present in a ratio of 9:1. The bound water molecules can be further categorized based on the number of hydrogen bonds (one or two) that they form with the surfactant headgroups. The hydrogen bonds of the doubly hydrogen bonded species (IBW2) are found to be, on the average, slightly weaker than that in the singly bonded species (IBW1). The environment around interfacial water molecules is more ordered than that in the bulk. The surface water molecules have substantially lower potential energy due to interaction with the micelle. In particular, both forms of IBW have energies lower by about 2.5 to 4.0 kcal/mole. Entropy is found to play an important role in determining the relative concentration of the species.

21 illus, 50 ref

007301   Augustine S K;Bhavsar S P;Baserisalehi M; Kapadnis B P (Dep of Microbiology, University of Pune, Pune 411 007) : Isolation, characterization and optimization of antifungal activity of an actinomycete of soil origin. Indian J expl Biol 2004, 42(9), 928-32.

About 312 actinomycetes were isolated from soil samples on chitin agar. All these isolates were purified and screened for their antifungal activity against pathogenic fungi. Out of these 22% of the isolates exhibited activity against fungi. One promising isolate wih strong antifungal activity against pathogenic fungi was selected for further studied. This isolate was from Pune, and was active against both yeasts and molds. Various fermentation parameters were optimized. Based on morphological and biochemical parameters, the isolate was identified as Streptomyces. The correlation of antifungal activity with growth indicated growth dependent prdoduction of antimetabolite. Maximum antifungal metabolite production (600 units/ml) was achieved in the late log phase, which remained constant during stationery phase, and it was extracellular in nature.

4 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

007300   Anitha Devi C P;Vivekanandhi J;Raghavan L; Jayaraman K (Post Graduate & Research Department of Zoology, Ethiraj College for Women, Chennai 600 008) : Subacute toxicity of erythrosine in Swiss albino mice mouse (Mus musculus). Indian J Envir Toxicol 2002, 12(2), 76-9.

The effect of erythrosine (a food colouring agent) in male albino mice (Mus musculus) was evaluated by oral administration for a period of 30 days. Reversal effects were also studied by discontinuing treatment for a further period of 15 days. Three doses 1/10^th, 1/20^th and 1/40^th of the LD₅₀ value (<62>2500 mg/kg/body weight) were selected. Dose related increase in food consumption was observed in all treated mice. Only in high dose group significant decrease (P<60>0.01) in body weight was observed. A dose dependent statistically significant increase in the blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum protein, albumin and glucose were recorded in all the treated groups. The results indicated that erythrosine produced no adverse effects in mice.

1 illus, 3 tables, 23 ref

007299   Al-Misned F A M (Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P O Box 2455, Riyadh 11451 (Saudi Arabia)) : Lead and cadmium in earthworm, Allolobophora caliginosa and soil collected from Wadi Haniffa, Riyadh Saudi Arabia. Ultra Scient phys Sci 2003, 15(3), 363-72.

The level of lead and cadmium in samples of soil and earthworms collected from diferent locations near and far from heavy traffic road was determined. Five sites for sample collection were chosen at Wadi Haniffa, Riyadh City during October 2001. Concentrations of lead and cadmium in both soil and earthworms were significantly different between sites, and were distance dependent. There were significant correlations between concentrations of lead and cadmium in soil in earthworms. Investigation confirms that A. caliginosa is an ideal indicator species for investigating the rate of heavy metal accumulation within terrestrial ecosystems.

2 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

007298   Aboluwoye C O;Moosavi-Movahedi A A;Saboury A A;Ajloo D;Chamani J;Marashi A (Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State (Nigeria)) : Electrostatic and hydrophobic effectors control on the sulfhydryl reactivities of hemoglobins. Ultra Scient phys Sci 2003, 15(3), 311-20.

The reactivities of the CysF9(93)β sulfhydryl group of human and bovine oxyhemoglobins with the uncharged 2, 2'-dithiobispyridine was determined as a function of pH in the absence and presence of sodium dodecyl sulphate. In both the native and denatured forms, the pH dependence profiles obtained resemble simple profile of diprotic acid titration curve. The profiles were analysed based on second order rate constant and obtained the pK values. The mean value of the pK₁ is 5.7 and pK₂ is 8.6, the value of the pK₁ is assigned to HisHC3 (146)β while the value of the pK₂ is assigned to CysF9(93)β. Comparison of the second-order rate constants, k_app, for the native and denatured forms of hemoglobins, shows that the kapp for the electrostatic region (in the presence of 0.3 mM SDS) is almost 2 folds higher than that of the native while the kapp for the hydrophobic region (in the presence of 0.3 mM SDS) is almost 30 fold higher than that of the native form at pH <62>7.2. Generally, human oxyhemoglobin A reacts faster with 2, 2'-dithiobispyridine than bovine oxyhemoglobin, these findings provide a new global view for theother hemoglobin species to be studied in the native, electrostatic and hydrophobic states.

5 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

006324   Yadav H;Singh P K (Zoology Dep, School of Life Sci, Khandari Campus, Agra-282 002) : Effect of thiazide drug compound on the testicular protein and cholesterol contents of albino rat. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 206-8.

In this study the effect of thiazide diuretic compound on the protein and cholesterol contents in the testes of albino rats as the experimental model. The drug thiazide was administered orally daily for 10, 20 and 30 days at the dose of 100mg/kg body weight. Total protein decrease in the testes of rats were evidenced may be due to the side effects of thiazide drug compound which is linked with the hyponatremia and protein metabolism. An elevated level of cholesterol contents observed in thiazide treated rats also revealed that the side effect of drug compound thiazide and also may be due to the stimulation of catecholamine which is stimulated therefore, the biochemical estimation such as protein and cholesterol in the testes after the thiazide treatment determined the effectiveness of diuretic drug compound would provde clinical evidences of their side effects.

20 ref

006323   Uma Maheshwari R;Anand N (Centre for Advanced Studies in Botany, University of Madras, Chennai-600 025) : Sensitivity of the cyanobacterium Tolypothrix scytonemoides isolated from temple rocks to low water potentials. Trop Ecol 2003, 44(2), 255-7.

Desiccation tolerance is more prevalent in prokaryotes than in eukaryotes (Bewley 1979). Many cyanobacteria of both marine and terrestrial origin express a capacity to tolerate water stress and desiccation (Potts 1985). Low water activity can be expressed as osmotic water stress {high salt concentrations} (Read et al. 1986) and matric water stress {dry environments} (Potts & Friedmann 1981). The water potential of a system may be controlled either through the direct addition of solutes like NaCl, to the medium {osmotic control} or by equilibration above a olution of defined water potential {matric or isopiestic} (Potts et al. 1984). Potts and coworkers have investigated the effects of acute water stress on nitrogen fixation (Potts et al. 1984), photosynthesis (Pots & Friedmann 1981), intracellular ATP levels (Potts et al. 1984) and protein synthesis (Potts 1985). This paper deals with the impact of acute water stress effected by the osmotic control method on growth, rates of photosynthetic oxygen evolution and nitrogenase activity in the cyanobacterium, Tolypothrix scytonemoides thriving under extreme drought conditions and high temperature on the exposed rock surfaces during summer.

1 illus, 12 ref

006322   Uday Kumar;Kamal S (Clinical Biochem Dep, IGIMS, Patna) : Raised serum lactate dehydrogenase associated with gangrenous small bowel volvulus. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 6-7.

Usually CPK, CK-MB and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) enzymes are measured in blood during the period of myocardial infarction. The changes in LDH assay indicates duration of the infarction. The level of lactate dehydrogenase is 500 times greater in tissue than those found in serum. A small mass of damaged tissue causes leakage of enzyme and increases its level in serum. Any cause of tissue break down/hemolysis which is sufficiently severe can produce LDH pattern similar to that in myocardial infarction. Report this case of small bowel volvulus showing significant increase in LDH. It may be due to tissue necrosis which increases the level of LDH in serum.

8 ref

006321   Thakur V;Anand A K;Mukherjee U;Ghosh D (Lab Med Dep, Batra Hospital & Med Res Cent, New Delhi-110 062) : Determination of cancer antigen 125 in ovarian carcinoma. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 27-33.

Appropriate therapeutic measures can improve the life expectancy of patients with ovarian malignancy. There has been a pressing need for serodiagnostic assays to enable the close patient monitoring. Cancer Antigen 125 (CA 125) has been described as a useful marker in patient monitoring for ovarian malignancy. Keeping this in view, the present study was planned. 40 consecutive female patients of ovarian carcinoma (mean age 52.4±10.7 years) were selected for serum CA125 analysis during the period of year 1995-2001. The tumour marker concentration was compared with histologic types of ovarian tumour and the FIGO staging of the disease. 25 healthy females (mean age 35.2±10.4 years) served as control. Mean serum CA125 concentrations in patients with papillary serous adenocarcinoma (Mean± % CV 1571± 121.5 U/ml) was much higher than patients with mucinous adenocarcinoma (775±78 U/ml). Mean serum CA 125 concentration in endometrioid carcinoma was very high (2853 ± 136 U/ml). The patient with clear cell carcinoma however had shown moderate increase (60 U/ml). No correlation was found between serum CA 125 concentration and the FIGO staging of disease. Kaplan meier survival analysis for evaluation of overall survival in the test subjects showed an overall survival of 32% at one year and median survival of 9 months with confidence interval of 6.34 to 11.66. Concludes that serum CA 125 is a useful marker for monitoring the treatment and predicting an early recurrence of the disease in ovarian carcinoma patients. A study in larger number of patients is needed to define its exact role in the management of the carcinoma ovary.

2 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

006320   Sood D R;Chokar V;Shilpa (Biochem Dep, Guru Jambheshwar Univ, Hisar-125 001) : Effect of garlic Allium sativum L.) extract on degree of hydration, fructose, sulphur and phosphorus contents of rat eyelens and intestinal absorption of nutrients. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 190-6.

Influence of aqueous garlic extract on degree of hydration, fructose, sulphur and phosphorus contents of rat eyelens and intestinal absorption of nutrients were assessed. Inclusion of garlic extract in culture medium containing glucose and xylose inhibited the hydration of rat eyelens, whereas galactose evinced the reverse trend. Aqueous garlic extract in general decreased the concentration of fructose and phosphorus, whereas sulphur concentration increased when rat eyelenses, were incubated with galactose and xylose. Garlic extract inhibited intestinal absorption of glutamic acid, sucrose and glucose to different extents. The rate of absorption of glutamic acid was found to be considerably higher than that of glucose and sucrose.

3 tables, 32 ref

006319   Sherwani A F;Mohmood S;Khan F;Khan R H;Azfer M A (Zoology Dep, AMU, Aligarh-202 002) : Characterization of lectins and their specificity in carcinomas - an appraisal. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 169-80.

Lectins, a group of specific glycoproteins present in animal as well as plant cells, are used as differentiating markers to study cancers and metastatic cell lines. This property of lectins depends on the process of cellular glycosylation. Glycosylation of some of the extracellular membrane proteins and lipids maintains the cell/cell and cell/matrix interactions. Chemical alterations in glycosylation play an important role in the metastatic behavior of tumor cells. Carbohydrate residues of the membrane glycoproteins can be detected using lectins due to their binding specificity to carbohydrates. Lectins, therefore have gained an importance in the field of cancer research. Galectins, a specialized group of lectin like proteins that are Ca+ independent and galactoside binding, are also considered as differentiation markers in some specific cancers like the carcinomas of thyroid. Thus the use of lectins and galectins to identify specific carbohydrates present on cell surface help in invasion and metastasis processes.

77 ref

006318   Shah H;Haridas N (Biochem Dep, Pramukh Swami Med Coll, Shri Krishna Hospital and Med Res Cent, Karmsad, Anand, Gujarat) : Evaluation of clinical utility of serum enzymes and troponin -T in the early stages of acute myocardial infarction. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 93-101.

Laboratory infarction diagnostics are based on the detection of elevated serum activities of total Creatine Kinase (CK), Creatine Kinase isoensyme MB, (CKMB), Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), isoenzyme forms of LDH and transaminases. Determination of these cardiac marker enzymes permits a highly sensitive diagnosis of transmural myocardial infarction. In such patients the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction can be confirmed by the clinical symptoms, and changes in the ECG in addition to the enzyme assays. The 50 AMI patients selected in the present study were those admitted to the ICCU of Shri Krishna Hospital, Karamsad. The blood samples were taken at the time of admission (ie. within four hours of the start of chest pain). The samples were analyzed for CK, CKMB, SGOT (serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase) αHBDH α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase and troponin, T. The serum CKMB activity in AMI showed an increase only 5-6 hours after the commencement of chest pain. The elevation in SGOT and αHBDH was still delayed. At the same time it was observed that the cardiac Troponin T (cTnT) was elevated at the time of admission of the patient itself. This increase of cTnT in AMI patients was 20 times higher than the normal blood donors. The controls included 25 normal blood donors and 25 patients with polytraumatic injuries with no chest contusion. The study shows that cTnT estimation could serve in the early diagnosis of AMI. The increase of cardiac troponin T in AMI patient was 20 times higher than the normal blood donors in AMI patients at the time of admission. Cardiac troponin T in serum appears to be a more sensitive indicator of myocardial cell injury than CKMB activity and its detection in the circulation may be a useful prognostic indicator in patients with unstable angina as well.

2 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

006317   Rizvi F;Khanna A K;Ram Pratap (Biochem and Medicinal Chem Div, Drug Res Inst, Lucknow-226 001) : Cardioprotective activity of synthetic guggulsterone (E and Z - isomers) in isoproterenol induced myocardial ischemia in rats: a comparative study. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 71-9.

Guggulsterone, a mixture of cis (E) and trans (Z) isomers (7:3 w/w) was synthesized from 16-DPA. The isomers were separated by column chromatography and evaluated for cardioprotective and antioxidant activities. Myocardial necrosis induced by isoproterenol in rats caused marked increase in serum creatine phosphokinase and glutamate pyruvate transaminase. Simultaneously in ischemic heart, phospholipase, xanthine oxidase and lipid peroxides were enhanced following depletion of glycogen, phospholipids and cholesterol. Treatment with guggulsterone and its both isomers at the dose of 50 mg/kg po., significantly protected cardiac damage as assessed by the reversal of blood and heart biochemical parameters in ischemic rats. The cardioprotective activity of guggulsterone and of both the isomers were compared with that of gemfibrozil at the same doses. Guggulsterone and both the isomers at tested concentrations (5-20mM) inhibited oxidative degradation of lipids in human low-density lipoprotein and rat liver microsomes induced by metal ions in vitro. The drug counteracted against the generation of superoxide anions (O₂) and hydroxyl radicals (OH^-) in non-enzymic test systems. It is suggested that cardioprotective and antioxidant activities of synthetic guggulsterone and guggulsterone obtained from gum resin Commiphora mukul that contains isomers E & Z in the ratio of 46:54w/w are the same.

3 tables, 36 ref

006316   Rao G;Kamath U;Raghothama C;Sujatha Pradeep K;Rao P (Biochem Dep, International Centre for Health Sci and Kasturba Med Coll, Manipal-576 119) : Maternal and fetal indicators of oxidative stress in various obstetric complications. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 80-6.

Study demonstrates the incidence of increased lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation in both maternal and fetal erythrocytes as markers of oxygen radical activity in different complications of pregnancy. In fetuses born after premature rupture of membranes, lipid peroxidation was significantly elevated as indicated by increased malondialdehyde levels (p<60>0.05) as compared to controls. Proteolytic activity in the erythrocytes of mothers in this groups was also significantly high (p<60>0.01). In patients delivered by lower segment cesarian section, lipid peroxidation and proteolytic activity in maternal erythrocytes were significantly higher than in controls (p<60>0.001 and p<60>0.05 respectively). In this group, endogenous protein damage due to oxidative stress was significantly high both in the mother and the fetus (p<60>0.001 and p<60>0.05 respectively).

2 tables, 24 ref

006315   Poornima K;Cariappa M;Asha K;Kedilaya H P; Nandini M (Biochem Dep, Centre For Basic Sci, Kasturba Med Coll, Mangalore-575 001) : Oxidant and antioxidant status in vegetarians and fish eaters. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 197-205.

An adequate antioxidant reserve which is usually present in a vegetarian diet is associated with higher life expectancy. On the other hand habitual consumption of fish is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular diseases which is attributed to the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) present in it. However the PUFA are readily susceptible to oxidation leading to the formation of free radicals which is known to be involved in the causation of several diseases. The oxidant-antioxidant status of 23 vegetarians and 22 fish eaters was studied by determining the plasma lipid peroxide measured as malondialdehyde (MDA) and the antioxidant, viz. glutathione (GSH), ascorbic acid, ceruloplasmin and uric acid. Results show that the ascorbic acid values were significantly higher in vegetarians. In addition, MDA correlated negatively with ascorbic acid only in vegetarians. However, correlation of MDA with glutathione showed a significant negative correlation only in fish eaters. There was no statistically significant difference in the MDA, GSH, ceruloplasmin and uric acid levels. The mechanism behind these findings are not clear and needs to be explored.

4 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

006314   Pereira W C;Rao M S;Vasudevan D M (Biochem Dep, Kasturba Med Coll, Manipal) : Secondary immunization inhibits drug induced apoptosis in vivo. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 161-8.

Immunization with a proper dose of an antigenic stimulus leads to cell proliferation and antibody response of circulating lymphocytes. It has been observed that Secondary immunized spleenocytes resist ceramide-mediated apoptosis in vitro. Present study is aimed at investigating the in vivo effect of immunization on apoptosis. Mice were subjected to either Primary or Secondary dose with Tetanus Toxoid. Unimmunized spleenocytes served as controls. Unimmunized, Primary and Secondary immunized mice were later exposed to chemotherapeutic drugs such as Etoposide/Methotrexate/Vincristine to induce apoptosis. Apoptosis was studied by using the Feulgen reaction on 5μ thin parafin sections of spleen. It was observed that Secondary immunized mice showed a lower percentage of apoptosis as compared to Primary or Unimmunized mice that was subjected to either of the chemotherapeutic drugs. It was thus concluded that Secondary immunization inhibits the process of chemotherapeutic drug induced apoptosis in vivo.

5 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

006313   Patil J A;Patil A J;Govindwar S P (Biochem Dep, Patil Med Coll, Bijapur) : Biochemical effects of various pesticides on sprayers of grape gardens. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 16-22.

A total of 85 healthy male pesticide sprayers in grape garden exposed to different class of pesticides for 3 to 10 years were compared with 75 controls matched for age with respect to serum cholinesterase, serum total protein, albumin, AST, ALT, hematological parameters such as Hb, Hct, RBC and serum lipid peroxidation. Serum lipid peroxidation was estimated in the form of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) produced. Significant decrease was observed in serum cholinesterase, serum total proteins, albumin and hematological parameters viz. Hb, Hct and RBC. Significant increase in lipid peroxidation, AST, ALT, was observed in exposed group when compared with control. These results suggest that the long term exposure of various pesticides on sprayers of grape garden affectlive, heme biosynthesis and decrease serum cholinesterase.

4 tables, 32 ref

006312   Om Kumar;Sugendran K;Pant S C;Vijayaraghavan R;Prakash A O (NO, Defence Research & Development Establishment, Gwalior-474 002) : Effect of ricin on some biochemical, haematological, and histopathological variables in mice. Def Sci J 2004, 54(4), 493-502.

Acute toxicity studies of ricin were carried out in Swiss, albino male mice. The median lethal concentration (LD₅₀) values were determined for mice through intraperitoneal and oral routes and were found to be 1.01 μg/kg and 28.29 mg/kg, respectively. The ricin (1.0 LD₅₀) was administered in mice through intraperitoneal route and various toxicity-related clinical variables were studied on the 1st, 3rd, and the 7th day of post-exposure. The prominent symptoms before death, were diarrhoea with black sticky vent and piloerection. The body weight decreased significantly in a dose-dependent manner. No significant change was observed in organ-to-body weight ratio on the 1st, 3rd and 7th day of post-exposure except kidney weight. On the 7th day, kidney weight increased significantly. The level of blood urea, uric acid, and glucose increased, while total protein level decreased. However, activities of transaminase and phosphatases were not altered. Leukocytosis was also observed. The recin also affected blood coagulation parameters. There was a significant increase in the clotting time. However, prothrombin time, bleeding time, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were not altered. Histopathological studies showed degenerative changes in various visceral organs, viz, lungs, liver, spleen, kidney, and testis. Acute toxicity studies of ricin revealed that it is highly toxic toxin. The ricin intoxication caused alterations in biochemical, haematological variables, and degenerative changes in various visceral organs.

2 illus, 7 tables, 24 ref

006311   Mythili Y;Sudharsan P T;Selvakumar E; Varalakshmi P (Med Biochem Dep, Dr ALM Post Graduate Inst of Basic Med Sci, Univ of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai-600 113) : Protective effect of DL-Alpha-lipoic acid on cyclophosphamide induced oxidative cardiac injury. Chemico-bio interaction 2004, 151(1), 13-19.

006310   Mukhopadhyay T;Giri A;Dasgupta A (Biochem Dep, North Bengal Med Coll, Sushrutanagar, Dt. Darjeeling-734 432) : Evaluation of serum mucoproteins in patients suffering from liver cancers. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 131-5.

Mucoproteins are normal and essential constituents of different types of cells, tissues and organs in the body. Interestingly, an increase in the serum mucoprotein has been described in several malignant disorders in various studies. To study this in the case of hepatocellular carcinoma thirty five patients suffering from histologically or cytologically confirmed hepatocellular carcinoma were tested for serum mucoprotein in the Department of Biochemistry and the Department of Pathology of North Bengal Medical College for a period of one and a half years against matched healthy controls. The serum mucoprotein was found to be increased significantly in the cases suffering from hepatocellular carcinoma (p<60>0.001). So, the present study suggests a strong correlation between the mucoprotein level and carcinomatous changes in the hepatocellular tissues.

2 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

006309   Mahdi A A;Chandra A;Singh R K;Shukla S;Mishra L C;Ahmad S (Biochem Dep, C.S.M. Med Univ (upgraded King George's Med Coll), Lucknow) : Effect of herbal hypoglycemic agents on oxidative stress and antioxidant status in diabetic rats. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 8-15.

The antioxidative potential of Momordica charantia, Azadirachta indica, Allium sativum and Ocimum sanctum was assessed in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Lipid peroxide levels were also measured in normal, diabetic and treated animals. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly higher and antioxidant activity was found low in diabetic groups as compared to the control groups, and significant alteration in both the MDA levels and antioxidant activity was also observed when the above herbal hypoglycemic agents were given to diabetic rats. On the basis of the results it concludes that M. charantia, A.indica, A.sativum and O.sanctum are not only useful in controlling the lipid peroxide levels but are also helpful in further strengthening the antioxidant potential.

3 tables, 31 ref

006308   Kulkarni A G;Suryakar A N;Sardeshmukh A S; Rathi D B (Biochem Dep, Dr. V.M. Med Coll, Solapur) : Studies on biochemical changes with special reference to oxidant and antioxidants in malaria patients. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 136-49.

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the development of malarial anemia. The present study was undertaken to study the role of oxidant and antioxidants in the patients of Plasmodium falciparum malaria (n = 25), Plasmodium vivax malaria (n = 25) as against the normal control subjects (n = 25). The parameters included are the hematological [hemoglobin, erythrocyte adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity, ADP - induced platelet aggregation] and serum total lipid peroxide as an index of oxidative stress and antioxidants [erythrocytic superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, serum vitamin E] & serum iron. Significant alterations in all above parameters were noted in both groups of malaria patients as compared to control subjects. Maximum significant alterations in hematological parameters were noticed in P. falciparum infection as compared to P. vivax malaria (p<60>0.001). Substantial rise in serum total lipid peroxides and a significant reduftion in antioxidants such as serum vitamin E and serum iron were noted in P. falciparum malaria as compared to P. vivax malaria (p<60>0.001), whereas maximum decline in erythrocytic SOD activity was observed in P. vivax infection as compared to P. falciparum malaria (p<60>0.05). Follow-up examination revealed the restoration of the levels of all biochemical parameters to the normal level after 20 days of antimalarial therapy. The study specified severity of P. falciparum malaria and also functional duality of oxidant.

6 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

006307   Ganesan N;Chegu H;Chandrasekaran A N (Biochem Dep, SRMC & RI (DU), Porur, Chennai-600 116) : Effect of type II collagen treatment on the antioxidant status in immune tissues of adjuvant induced arthritic rats. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 216-22.

Adjuvant induced arthritis (AIA) is a model widely used to study Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In the present study, lipid peroxides level in spleen and thymus of AIA rats was observed to be significantly high compared to normal rats. A significant decrease in ascorbic acid (ASA), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase activity (SOD) was also observed in spleen and thymus of AIA rats compared to normal rats. There was also a steady increase in the circulating immune complex level (CIC) throughout the experimental period in serum of AIA rats. In the present investigation, it was decided to study the effect of pre and post treatment with TYPE II collagen on the antioxidant status and the circulating immune complex level in AIA rats. The results from the present work indicate that the pretreatment with TYPE II collagen was effective in bringing significant changes on all the parameters studied in AIA rats. The post treatment with TYPE II collagen was effective in bringing significant changes on the CIC immune complex level and GSH content in the thymus tissue of AIA rats. The present work suggests that the pre treatment with TYPE II collagen was more effective in suppressing the disease than the post treatment.

1 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref

006306   Eshrat M H (National Chem Lab, , Pune-411 008) : Effect of Coccinia indica (L.) and Abroma augusta (L.) on glycemia, lipid profile and on indicators of end - organ damage in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 54-63.

In Ayurvedic system of medicine in India, not only extracts of one plant or the other but also a combination of plant extracts are used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. The present paper reports the combined effect of abroma augusta and Coccinia indica known to be useful for the treatment of diabetes in Ayurveda on the fasting blood sugar, glucose tolerance and lipid profile of Streptozotocin (STZ) induced albino rats. 300mg of water extract of the mixture of dried powdered roots of A. augusta and leaves of C. indica in equal proportions was given once daily for 8 weeks. After 8 weeks of treatment of Streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats, the fasting blood sugar came down to almost normal value and improvement in glucose tolerance and serum lipid profile were also observed.

3 illus, 6 tables, 17 ref

006305   Das S K;Nayak P;Vasudevan D M (Biochem Dep, Sikkim Manipal Inst of Med Sci, 5th Mile, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim-737 102) : Biochemical markers for alcohol consumption. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 111-18.

A variety of laboratory tests are available to assist in the diagnosis of alcohol consumption and related disorders. The levels of intake at which laboratory results become abnormal vary from person to person. Laboratory tests are particularly useful in settings where cooperativeness is suspected or when a history is not available. Several biochemical and hematological tests, such as χ-glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) content of serum, and erythrocyte mean corpuscular volume (MCV) are established markers of alcohol intake. Their validity as markers is based largely on correlations with recent intake at a single time point and on decreases in elevated values when heavy drinkers abstain from alcohol. These readily available laboratory tests provide important prognostic information and should be integral part of the assessment of persons with hazardous alcohol consumption. There are several other markers with considerable potential for more accurate reflection of recent alcohol intke. These include carbohydrate deficient transferrin, β-hexosaminidase, acetaldehyde adducts and the urinary ratio of serotonin metabolites, 5-hydroxytryptophol and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid. These markers provide hope for more sensitive and specific aids to diagnosis and improved monitoring for intake.

64 ref

006304   D'Souza H S;Menezes G;Venkatesh T (Biochem Dep, St. John's Med Coll, Koramangala, Bangalore-34) : Role of essential trace minerals on the absorption of heavy metals with special reference to lead. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 154-60.

Heavy metals are important toxicants known to exert adverse effects in humans and animals, given sufficient exposure and accumulation in the body. This has a great concern both at personal and public health risk. Heavy metals are also known to interact with the essential trace minerals at the level of absorption and also during the metabolism. The adverse effects of the absorbed and accumulated heavy metals include neurological, reproductive, renal and hematological systems. Children are more sensitive than adults to the effects of lead. Efforts are made to understand the mechanism of the interactions of heavy metals with essential trace minerals at the level of absorption. With available sensitive and specific methodologies like Anodic Stripping Voltammetry for the evaluation of the levels of toxic heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury etc., better understanding of heavy metal absorption is made possible. Due to the poor nutritional standards, risk of heavy metal exposure is still a major concern in developing countries. Studies carried out by the author have provided evidence towards the understanding of the prevailing mechanisms of metal-metal interaction at the intestinal level. During growth and development the demand for the essential minerals being at higher level, differentiation of various essential metals and heavy metals pose an inherent problem due to certain common properties shared by them. With this approach to the problem of heavy metal toxicity, it is preventable not only with environmental intervention but also by the nutritional management.

1 table, 50 ref

006303   Chandra M;Maurya D R;Kumar S;Basara H;Ghatak A;Tekwani B L;Kaur G;Misra M K (ICU Med Dep, King George's Med Coll, Lucknow) : Reversible suppression of nitric oxide system in essential hypertension. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 150-3.

Despite enormous research in the field of hypertension, its pathophysiology still remains largely unresolved and appears to be multifactorial. Present communication, analyzed the status of nitric oxide (NO) in the patients with essential hypertension and age matched controls. Levels of NO are lowered in essential hypertension. The normalization of blood pressure by administration of antihypertensive therapy causes rise in the NO level indicating that perturbed NO status in essential hypertension is reversible. Addition of antioxidant to the antihypertensive drugs causes a further, though non significant, rise in the levels of NO suggesting that antioxidants may be combined with antihypertensive drugs as adjunct in the management of essential hypertension.

1 table, 20 ref

006302   Banerjee S;Gupta S;Shende N;Satish Kumar; Harinath B C (Jamnalal Bajaj Tropical Disease Res Cent and Biochem Dep, Mahatma Gandhi Inst of Med Sci, Sevagram, Wardha-442 102) : Serodiagnosis of tuberculosis using two elisa systems. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 48-53.

Serodiagnosis by ELISA has been widely explored over the years, in the diagnosis of tuberculosis. Two ELISA systems were evaluated for detection of mycobacterial antibodies in pulmonary and extra pulmonary tuberculosis. The two test assays explored were ERBA LISA (TB IgG) test (And Biologicals) which uses A60 antigen complex found in the cytosol of typical and atypical mycobacteria, and SEVA TB (IgG) ELISA, which uses a 31 kDa, glycoprotein antigen purified from M. tb H_37> Ra culture filtrate. Sera from 98 proven tuberculosis [pulmonary TB (48), tuberculous lymphadenopathy (30), tuberculous meningitis (15) & genito-urinary TB (5)] were studied along with 32 healthy controls. The overall positivity obtained using ERBA LISA (TB lgG) test and SEVA TB (lgG) ELISA test was 72.9% and 91.6% in pulmonary tuberculosis, 43.3% and 76.6% in tuberculous lymphadenpathy respectively. The sensitivity of ERBA LISA test in tuberculous meningitis and genito-urinary TB was significantly low (26.6% & 60% respectively) compared to sensitivity obtained using SEVA TB ELISA (86.6% & 60% respectively) with overall specificity of 60% and 87.5%. Thus SEVA TB IgG ELISA test was found to be more sensitive than ERBA LISA in detecting IgG antibodies in tuberculous sera, in particular in extra pulmonary tuberculosis cases.

3 tables, 16 ref

006301   Ashavaid T F;Eghlim F F;Shalia K K;Nair K G (Res Lab, P.D. Hinduja National Hospital & Med Res Cent, Mumbai-400 010) : Standardization of homocysteine on HPLC using DTT as reductant. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 106-10.

Determination of plasma total homocysteine by high -pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) usually requires reduction of protein bound or free homocysteine -disulphides into thiols by a reducing agent and the liberated thiols are then derivatized by a fluorescent marker. In this study we have standardized the HPLC method for homocysteine measurement using dithiothreitol (DTT) as reductant. The results of plasma total homocysteine values obtained by HPLC were compared with IMx method. The difference between the two means was statistically insignificant [P=0.616847 (two tail)] Linear regression analysis showed strong correlation between the two methods (r=0.983). Using this method we have analyzed 132 controls and 130 controls and 130 Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) patients for plasma total homocysteine, wherein, the mean plasma total homocysteine levels were 10.51 ± 8.36 and 11.51 ± 10.06 μmol/L respectively. Our research study suggests that DTT method is a simple and inexpensive assay for homocysteine determination in human plasma for research application.

1 illus, 13 ref

006300   Ananth N;Praveenkumar G S;Aravind Rao K; Vasanthi;Kakkilaya S (Biochem Dep, Kasturba Med Coll, Deralakatte, Mangalore) : Two cases of hereditary fructose intolerance. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 87-92.

Hereditary fructose intolerance is a rare cause of hepatic cirrhosis in the young. The disorder has a reported frequency of 1 in 20000 live births and no case has been reported from India so far. Two cases of hereditary fructose intolerance, both with bilateral cataracts and one with cirrhosis of the liver has been reported.

2 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

006299   Agarwal R;Rami A (Anatomisches Institut III, Dr. Senckenbergische Anatomie, Universitats, , Theodor-Stem-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt, FRG) : Redistribution of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in response to cerebral ischemia in rat brain. Indian J clin Biochem 2003, 18(2), 64-70.

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), a cytoplasmic enzyme, plays a protective role during oxidative stress in eucaryotic cells, since they provide coenzymes and substrates to the primary antioxidant enzymes. The redistribution of G6PD in the hippocampus was studied post-ischemia (PI). There was a characteristic licalisation of G6PD in pyramidal cell layers of the rat hippocampus. In hippocampus CA 1 cells were stained weakly whereas CA3 cells showed strong histochemical staining. Ischemia induced up-regulation of G6PD in the hippocampus was in a specific manner. First, the activity increased in the whole hippocampus (at 4 hours PI) which persisted 6 hrs PI in CA 1 area. However G6PD activity decreased in the CA3 area & dentate gyrus. At 10 & 24 hrs PI, activity decreased in CA1 area but normalised in CA3 area & dentate gyrus compared to controls. This suggests that the sensitive CA 1 neurons are transiently capable of generating an anti-oxidative arsenal to cope with the oxidative stress in the first few hours PI. We can conclude that the brain contains inducible endogenous mechanisms that are capable of enhancing the ability of neurons to withstand lethal ischemic challenge.

3 illus, 16 ref

005557   Selvendiran K;Banu S M;Sakthisekaran D (Medical Biochemistry Dep, Dr. ALM Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University, Taramani Campus, Chennai-600 113) : Protective effect of piperine on benzo (a) pyrene-induced lung carcinogenesis in Swiss albino mice. Clin Chim Acta 2004, 350(1-2), 73-8.

005556   Selvarani D;Rajamanickam C (Biochem Dep, Sch of Biological Sci, Madurai Kamaraj Univ, Madurai) : Polychlorinated biphenyls 1232 toxicity on microsome of Ariuz caelatus (valenciennes). Indian J Envir Toxicol 2002, 12(1), 26-9.

Effects of intraperitoneal injection of 4 sublethal doses (0.6, 2.0, 4.0, and 6.0 mg/kg body weight) of PCB 1232 on the gills, liver and heart microsome of fish Arius caelatus were studied. The liver and heart microsomal protein content exhibited significant changes however, no changes was recorded in gills. Irrespective of the tissues, at lowest dose level (0.6 mg/kg body wt.) PCB increased the phospholipid/cytochrome b₅/ cytochrome P-450 content whereas at higher dose levels and decrease was registered. the changing pattern of Cytochrome P-450 was comparable to that of aniline 4-hydroxylase. Similarly at lowest dose level PCB decreased the RNAse activity and the increased in dose level gradually elevated its activity in tissues studied.

18 ref

005555   Rudrama Devi K;Medak S R;Chakraborty A (Human Genetics Lab., Zool Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 007) : Chromium induced sister chromatid exchanges in human lymphocytes. Indian J Envir Toxicol 2002, 12(1), 9-10.

The cytogenetic effects of chromium was studied in human lymphocytes in vitro using sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) assay. Three different concentrations 100, 150 and 200 microg/ml were used. Significant increase in the percentage of SCE was noted in chromium treated cultures. Dose and duration dependent relationship was observed.

1 table, 13 ref

005554   Rajitha I (Apparel and Textiles Dep, Coll of Home Sci, A N G R Agric Univ, Hyderabad-500 004) : Evaluation of dermal exposure to endosulfan in human beings. Indian J Envir Toxicol 2002, 12(1), 18-21.

The investigation was carried out to study the exposure pattern of endosulfan on spraymen engaged in grape orchards and the protective effect of aprons on various blends agains exposures. Upper half of the body especially the head region of spraymen was more prone to receive the pesticide exposure. Apron of polyester-cotton blend finished fabric provided better protection against endosulfan exposure in comparison to polyester-viscose fabric for spraymen, hence use of aprons may be put into routine parctices to minimize the exposure effects of endosulfan on skin.

1 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

005553   Pant N;Srivastava S P (Industrial Toxicology Res Centre, , Post Box No. 80, M G Marg, Lucknow-226 001) : Male mediated developmental toxicity and fertility in rats exposed to carbofuran. Indian J Envir Toxicol 2002, 12(1), 30-2.

Adult male rats treated with 0.4 mg carbofuran/kg body weight 5 d / week for 60 days were mated with normal female of proven fertility. A decrease in male fertility index was observed where as an increase in number of resorption along with decrease in implantation was noticed. The data suggested that exposured of carbofuran to male rats adversely affect fertility and development of embryo/foetus in female rats impregnated by such rats.

2 tables, 10 ref

005552   Nandy S;Mitra S (Biotechnology Dep, Instrumental & Environmental Science, Mohanpur-741 252) : Features of Indian Sundarbans mangrove swamps. Envir Ecol 2004, 22(Spl2), 339-44.

The Sundarbans swamps and forests stand supreme among the wetlands where diverse animal and plant species exist in perfect balance in a rich biomass by their stresses and strains, thrusts and counter thrusts. The mangrove dwelling fauna or mangrove habitat animal species in the Indian Sunderbans are also important for their large species diversity, along with several important threatened, rare, endangered and endemic species. Fish, fisheries and fishing in the Sundarbans tidal estuaries, rivers, creeks and vast estuaries wetlands are imporatnt in term of rural economic set up and supply of cheaper protein food. From this coastal Sundarbans on an average 6,000 t/ha mangrove litter is released euring one calendar year and it acts as the sink for Kolkata metropolitan pollutants.

2 tables, 11 ref

005551   Karmarkar S;Chandana Das (Biochemistry Dep, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi-110 029) : Modulation of ezrin and E-cadherin expression by IL-1β and TGF-β1 in human trophoblasts. J Reprod Immun 2004, 64(1-2), 9-29.

005550   Elizabeth K M;Esther Rani G (Microbiology Dep, Coll of Sci, Gandhi Inst of Technol and Management, Visakhapatnam-530 045) : Bioremediation of Phenol, Ammonia, Nickel, Hexavalent Chromium and iron from steel plant effluent of Visakhapatnam city by live, killed and immobilized bacteria. Asian J Chem 2004, 16(3-4), 1269-73.

Bioremediation of Phenol, ammonia, nickel, hexavalent chromium and iron from steel plant effluent of Visakhapatnam city was carried out using bacteria. Live Bacillus species could remove 8% phenol, 100% ammonia, 92.5% nickel, 88% hexavalent chromium and 73.1% iron(II), from industrial effluent. Biosorption technique showed 100% and 97% of chromium removal by Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus species (BS2) respectively. There was 90.7 and 47.7 removal of ammonia by Bacillus species and Staphylococcus aureus respectively by immobilization technique. Chi-square test was exployed to test whether the results obtained were significant or not at the level of P<60>0.05.

3 tables, 15 ref

005549   Chauhan J B;Subramanian R B;Sanyal P K (Biosci Dep, Sardar Patel Univ, Vallabh Vidyanagar-388 120) : Influence of heavy metals and a fungicide on growth profiles of nematophagous fungus (Arthrobotrys musiformis, a potential biocontrol agent against animal parastic nematodes. Indian J Envir Toxicol 2002, 12(1), (NULL).

Different growth profiles of a nematophagous fungus, Arthrobotrys musiformis, were measured in agar plates in presence of various concentration of heavy metal salts and a fungicide. Though no significant effect on growth of the fungus was observed at any concentration of lead nitrate, sodium arsenate and copper sulphate, maximum adverse effects were observed with mercuric chloride followed by zinc chloride. Arount 80% growth inhibition with carbendazim was observed at 2.0 ppm concentrations and above with a significant inhibition between concentrations of 1.0 to 1.5 ppm. Implications of the use of this fungus as a biocontrol agent against animal parastitic nematodes in the altered envicronmental niches on account of intensive agriculture, and didscuused.

2 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref