014668   Mathur A;Dua V K;Prasad G B K S (Biochemistry Dep, Sai Institute of Paramedical & Allied Sciences, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Email: abhishekmthr@gmail.com) : Antimicrobial activity of leaf extracts of Murraya Koenigii against aerobic bacteria associated with bovine mastitis. Int J chem envir pharm Res 2010, 1(1), 12-6.

The susceptibilities of some of the common aerobic bacterial isolates from 20 milk samples collected from different cows with udder inflammation were subjected to hexane and methanolic leaf extracts of Murraya koenigii was determined by the well diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of test extracts that gave inhibition were determined using the tube dilution method. The phytochemicals present in the various leaf extracts were also qualitatively assayed using conventional techniques. The methanolic extract of leaves of Murraya koenigii inhibited Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus uberis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Corynebacterium gravis and Bacillus cereus. The hexane extract inhibited all microorganisms except Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus uberis and Bacillus cereus. The MIC values of the different methanolic extracts of leaves were found to vary greatly, and ranged from 8.25 mg/ml to 30mg/rnl.

1 illus, 4 tables, 11 ref

014667   Manjunath R;Gunasekaran S;Pingale B N (Microbiology Div, IARI, New Delhi-110 012) : Effect of incubation period and agitation on bioplastic producing microorganisms. Bioinfolet 2011, 8(2), 192-3.

Studies were undertaken to standardize the optimum incubation period and agitation (rpm) for the growth of three locally isolated bioplastic producing microorganisms. The incubation period for 36 hours with agitation at the rate of 100 rpm, were found to be optimum for maximum bacterial growth and production of Polyhydroxyalkanoates.

2 tables, 6 ref

014666   Manjunath R;Gunasekaran S;Pingale B N (Agricultural Microbiology Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore-641 003) : Comparison of microbial bioplastic extraction methods. Bioinfolet 2011, 8(2), 179-80.

A comparison of Solvent and Dispersion methods for the extraction of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) was undertaken. No significant quantitative difference between the two methods was recorded.

1 table, 7 ref

014665   Manjunath R;Ganasekaran S;Pingale B N (Microbiology Div, I.A.R.I., New Delhi-110 012) : Effect of pH and temperature on microbial bioplastic production. Bioinfolet 2011, 8(2), 194-5.

Studies were conducted to standardize optimum pH and temperature for three locally isolated bioplastic producing microorganisms. The pH 7 was found to be better for all strains including the reference culture, Ralstonia eutropha. The optimum temperature was 30°C.

2 tables, 11 ref

014664   Lipkind M (Unit of Moleular Virology, Kimron veterinary Institute, Beit Dagan, Israel, Email: lipkind@macam.ac.il) : Consciousness enigma: The "Hard problem" - binding problem entanglement, "extra ingredient" and field principal. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(5), 395-402.

The "Hard problem" of consciousness relates to the perplexing emergence of consciousness as a result of the brain activity. The binding problem concerns separate processing of perceived data in functionally and topographically segregated cortical areas and functional integration of such locally disjoined operations into coherently perceived images and events. The existing field-grounded theories of consciousness fall into two groups: (i) those based on the physical (electromagnetic) field, and (ii) those grounded on autonomous fields irreducible to the established physical fundamentals. The critical analysis of the existing theories results in formulation of the extra ingredient and a novel irreducible field-based theory of consciousness.

107 ref

014663   Lee B C;Yoo J S;Baik K Y;Sung B;Lee J;Soh K S (Physics and Astronomy Dep, Biomedical Physics Laboratory, Seoul National Univ, Seoul, Korea, Email: kssohl@gmail.com) : Development of a fluorescence stereomicroscope and observation of bong-han corpuscles inside blood vessels. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(5), 330-5.

A fluorescence stereomicroscope system was developed in order to observe in situ the distribution of nuclei in intravascular Bong-Han ducts and corpuscle tissues by injecting acridine orange, which stained specifically nuclei. Intravascular Bong-Han corpuscles, connected with Bong-Han ducts could be detected in the aortas of rats, mice, and rabbits.

4 illus, 21 ref

014662   Lanzano L;Grasso R;Gulino M;Bellia P; Falciglia F;Scordino A;Tudisco S;Triglia A;Musumeci F (Di Metodologie Fisiche e Chimiche Per I'Ingegneria Dipartimento, Catania and laboratori nazionali Del Sud Univ, I.N.F.N., Catania, Italy, Email: lanzano_1@ins.infn.it) : Corresponding measurements of delayed luminescence and impedance spectroscopy on acupuncture points. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(5), 364-70.

Measurements of impedance spectroscopy and delayed luminescence have been performed on the acupuncture points PC4 and PC8 and other two control points of ten volunteers. The results show that there is a highly significant difference between the imaginary parts of the impedance of the acupunctural points and that of the control points. The same difference has not be observed in the values of the total number of counts of delayed luminescence. However a relationship has been detected between the imaginary part of the impedance of PC8 point and the total number of delayed luminescence counts, similar to that one found before for collagen, and it has been seen that the temporal dynamics of the two phenomena measured on one control points are similar. In particular, these final results confirm the close connection between the delayed luminescence and the dielectric properties of biological tissues.

7 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

014661   Kaur S;Jaggi R K (University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Punjab Univ, Chandigarh, Email: dndu_sarbjit@yahoo.co.in) : Antinociceptive activity of chronic administration of different extracts of Terminalia bellerica Roxb. and Terminalia chebula Retz. fruits. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(9), 925-30.

The petroleum ether (PE), chloroform (CH), ethanol (ETH) and water extracts of Terminalia bellerica and T. chebula fruits were evaluated for their analgesic activity using the tail immersion model in mice. The ethanolic extracts of both the plants exhibited analgesic response at 200,400 and 800mg/kg. The studies were further carried for 15 days to evaluate the effect of these extracts in chronic pain and maximum analgesic response was observed on 14lh day in both the plants. Phytochemical investigation of ethanolic extract of the fruits of Terminalia bellerica and T. chebula revealed the presence of saponins, triterpenoids, carbohydrates, tannins and proteins. The results indicate that fruits of T. bellerica and T. chebula could be considered as potential candidate for bioactivity-guided isolation of natural analgesic agents used in the management of chronic pain.

4 tables, 35 ref

014660   JohanSamuel N;Soundarapandian P (Centre of Advanced Study in marine Biology, Annamalai Univ, Parangipettai-608 502, Email: soundsuma@yahoo.com) : Embryology of commercially important portunid crab Scylla serrata (Forskal). Asian J expl biol Sci 2010, 1(1), 178-82.

Embryonic development of the mud crab, Scylla serrata (Forskal) was studied. Five embryonic stages, viz., Blastula, Gastrula, Eye placode, Pigment and Heart beat were identified and described in detail. The size of the developing egg increased at every stage. The colour of the egg was initially yellow and it gradually changed to orange, brown and black colours. The hatching success of freshly hatched I zoea was 80%. The salinity test showed 35 ppt as optimum salinity to rear the larvae of S. serrata.

6 illus, 17 ref

014659   Jitesh B;Jaideo S (Forensic Science Laboratory, , Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands-744 101, Email: jitesh007bhatia@yahoo.com) : Microwave solvent extraction and spectrophotometric determination of carbamate pesticides in biological tissues. Res J Chem Envir 2010, 14(1), 36-40.

Microwave solvent extraction method was carried out for the extraction of carbamate pesticides namely carbaryl, carbosulfan, methomyl and propoxur from biological tissues. Quantitative determination was done by ultra violet spectrophotometry. The calibration curve which is a plot ofabsorbance values of each carbamate at their respective absorption maxima (λ_max) versus the concentration of these pesticides was found linear in the range of 10 μg/ml to 100μg/ml with correlation coefficient of more than 0.99 for each carbamate. Recovery of each carbamate from biological tissues was estimated by these calibration curves and mean percentage recoveries were found in the range of 85.14% to 92.76%. The proposed method is simple, speedy, reliable and can be used for routine toxico-logical analysis.

8 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

014658   Jiin-Ju C (Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China, Email: changij@ibp.ac.cn) : Physical properties of biophotons and their biological functions. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(5), 371-7.

Biophotons (BPHs) are weak photons within or emitted from living organisms. The intensities of BPHs range from a few to several hundred photons. s^-1.cm^-2. BPH emission originates from a de-localized coherent electromagnetic field within the living organisms and is regulated by the field. In this paper based on the experimental results of Poisson and sub-Poisson distributions of photocount statistics, the coherent properties of BPHs and their functions in cell communication are described. Discussions are made on functions which BPHs may play in DNA and proteins functioning including the process of DNA replication, protein synthesis and cell signalling and in oxidative phosporylation and photosynthesis.

8 illus, 20 ref

014657   Jaya Madhuri R;Rangaswamy V (Applied Microbiology Dep, Sri Padmavathi Mahila Univ, Tirupathi-517 502, Email: ravuri_jayamadhuri@rediffmail.com) : Biodegradation of selected insecticides by Bacillus and Pseudomonas sps in ground nut fields. Toxic int 2009, 16(2), 127-32.

Bacterial cultures isolated by selective enrichment technique were identified as species of Bacillus and Pseudomonas. These isolates were tested for their ability to degrade the respective insecticides in mineral salts medium. Within 7 days of incubation, nearly 75% of chlorpyrifos and phorate and 50% of dichlorvos, methyl parathion and methomyl were degraded by cultures of soil bacteria. Qualitative analysis of chlorpyrifos and methyl parathion residues by gas chromatography revealed the formation of one unidentified metabolite in inoculated samples. Whereas no metabolite formation was detected in case of other insecticides inoculated samples. Moreover, dichlorvos and phorate were completely degraded by soil isolates at the end of 14 days. Order of microbial degradation of selected insecticides in the present experiment is as follows: phorate <62> dichlorvos <62> methyl parathion <62> chlorpyrifos <62> methomyl.

1 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

014656   Jaishree V;Badami S;Krishnamurthy P T (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, J.S.S. College of Pharmacy, Ootacamund-643 001, Email: jaishreek2@rediffmail.com) : Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effect of the ethyl acetate extract of Enicostemma axillare (Lam). raynal against CCI4-induced liver injury in rats. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(9), 896-904.

Enicostemma axillare is used in Indian traditional medicine as a liver tonic. Its ethyl acetate extract has shown potent in vitro antioxidant activity and found to contain 7.26% of a bitter secoiridoid glycoside, swertiamarin. Hence, in the present study the ethyl acetate extract was screened for hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties against CC1₄ induced hepatic injury in rats. The hepatoprotection was assessed in terms of reduction in histological damage and changes in serum enzymes and metabolites. The pretreatment with the extract at 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight doses given orally for eight days prior to CC1₄ caused significant restoration of altered biochemical changes due to CCl₄ towards the normal in serum, liver and kidney. The extract treatment at 200 mg/kg body weight was found to be more potent than the standard silymarin at 100 mg/kg body weight in reversing most of the biochemical parameters. Histopathological studies complemented the results of biochemical estimations in providing a proof of hepatoprotective and antioxidant actions of the extract. The study provides a support to the ethnomedical use of œ axillare in India.

4 illus, 1 table, 34 ref

014655   Jagtap S;Gore S;Yavankar S;Pardesi K;Chopade B (Microbiology Dep, Pune Univ, Pune-411 007, Email: directoribb@unipune.ac.in) : Optimization of medium for lipase production of Acinetobacter haemolyticus form healthy human Skin. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(9), 936-41.

A lipase producing Acinetobacter haemolyticus TA106 was isolated from healthy human.skin of tribal population. The maximum activity of 55 U/ml was observed after medium optimization using the "one variable at a time" and the statistical approaches. The optimal composition of the medium was determined as (% w/v or v/v): tryptone - 1, yeast extract - 0.5, sodium chloride-1, olive oil-1, Tween - 80 1, manganese sulphate - 5 mM, sucrose- 1, pH-7. It was found that maximum production occurred in late log phase i.e. after 72 h and at 200 rpm. From factorial design and statistical analysis, it was found that pH, temperature, salt, inoculum density and aeration significantly affected the lipase production. It was also noted that inoculum density of 3% (v/v), sucrose (1% w/v) and manganese sulphate (5 mM) displayed maximum lipase activity of 55 U/ml by conventional as well as statistical method. Optimization studies also indicated the increase in specific activity from 0.2 U/mg to 6.7 U/mg.

2 tables, 23 ref

014654   Jadhav S A;Gaikwad R V;Gaonkar R K;Thorat V M;Gursale S C;Balsara J J (Pharmacology Dep, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Karad-415 110, Email: jehangirbalsara@yahoo.co.in) : Dose-dependent response of central dpaminergic systems to buspirone in mice. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(10), 704-14.

Buspirone, a partial agonist of 5-hydroxytryptamine_1A autoreceptors, preferentially blocks the presynaptic rather than the postsynaptic D² dopamine (DA) receptors. Behavioural effects of a wide dose range of buspirone were therefore studied in mice. Buspirone at 0.625 to 5 mg/kg ip induced stereotyped cage climbing behaviour which was antagonized by pretreatment with haloperidol, alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine and small doses of apomorphine. Buspirone at 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg ip induced catalepsy and antagonized oral stereotypies induced by high doses of apomorphine and methamphetamine and apomorphine-induced cage climbing behaviour. The findings indicate that buspirone at 0.625 to 5 mg/kg selectively blocks the presynaptic mesolimbic D^6.2 DA autoreceptors and releases DA which stimulates the postsynaptic mesolimbic D² and D¹ DA receptors and induces cage climbing behaviour. Buspirone, at 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg blocks the postsynaptic striatal and mesolimbic D² and D¹ DA receptors. Pretreatment with 1-tryptophan, dexfenfluramine and fluoxetine antagonized buspirone induced cage climbing behaviour and potentiated buspirone induced catalepsy. Pretreatment with trazodone, mianserin and p-chlorophenylalanine potentiated buspirone induced cage climbing behaviour and antagonized buspirone induced catalepsy. The results indicate that drugs which influence the activity of central serotonergic systems modulate the intensity of buspirone induced cage climbing behaviour and catalepsy.

6 tables, 45 ref

014653   Hyland G J (International Institute of Biophysics, landesstifung Hombroich, Raketenstation, D-41472 Neuss, Germany, Email: hyland1@onetel.com) : Physical basis of adverse and therapeutic effects of low intensity microwave radiation. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(5), 403-19.

A physical basis of adverse and therapeutic effects of low intensity microwave radiation is presented based on the concept of oscillatory similitude between the frequency of an external microwave field (together with any lower frequency modulations thereof) and those of certain endogenous dipolar coherent excitations allied to aliveness, which play the role of 'tuned circuits' via which a living organism is electromagnetically sensitised in a non-linear way to external fields too weak to be able to cause heating. From this perspective, an external electromagnetic field affects a living system not as a toxin but rather by perturbing its endogenous electromagnetic activity. The possibility of adverse perturbation is illustrated by reference to the microwave fields used in mobile telecommunications whose signals interfere in a non-thermal way with bio-functionality-in particular, undermining the efficacy of processes that would otherwise afford natural protection against the development of pathology. Therapeutic modalities of microwave exposure, on the other hand, are illustrated using the example of microwave resonance therapy - which can be considered as an electromagnetic version of acupuncture, and as an example of 'quantum medicine' - whose normalising effect on a wide range of pathologies is striking, and which affords a novel alternative to conventional pharmacological interventions.

2 tables, 84 ref

014652   Huma Ali;Ahi J;Ganesh N (NO, SRF Department of Research Jawaharlal Nehru Cancer Hospital& Research, Bhopal-462 001) : Novel potential of Eichornia crassipes as an anti-inflammatory agent. Ultra Scient phys Sci 2010, 22(1), 143-6.

There are no experimental reports on anti-inflammatory activities of Eichornia crassipes in literature. In this article report for the first time, the efficiency of Eichornia crassipes extract in the treatment against inflammation. The methanolic extract of Eichornia crassipes leaves were investigated for the evaluation of their anti-inflammatory potential on carrageenan-induced paw oedema in Wister rats. Leaf extract of Eichornia crassipes in dose 200mg/kg (P <60> 0.05) and 500mg/kg (P <60> 0.01) on orally administration gave significant reduction of rat paw oedema at all assessment times. The Eichornia crassipes leaf extract showed maximum inhibition of 52.54% at the dose of 500mg/kg after 4 hrs. Where as the standard drug showed 62.38% of inhibition. These observations revealed that Eichornia crassipes has significant anti-inflammatory property.

1 table, 15 ref

014651   Hosamani M;Bhanuprakash V;Kallesh D J; Balamurugan V;Pande A;Singh R K (Virology Div, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Campus Mukteswar-263 138, Email: rks_virology@rediffmail.com) : Cell culture adapted sheeppox virus as a challenge virus for potency testing of sheppox vaccine. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(10), 685-9.

Sheeppox virus from an outbreak of sheeppox that occurred in Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir, India) in 2000 was isolated by inoculation of susceptible sheep and further re-isolated in cell culture. The field virus, adapted to grow in lamb testes culture, was evaluated for its potential use as challenge virus in potency testing of sheeppox vaccine currently in use. The virus (passage 6) produced severe disease in susceptible sheep when inoculated subcutaneously with a dose of 10^6.262 TCID₅₀. The virus identity was confirmed by PCR, sequencing of P32 gene and species-specific signature residues identified in deduced aa sequence of the gene. The virus was successfully evaluated for its virulence using two batches of sheep pox vaccines. Use of this field virus enables consistent potency experiments of sheeppox vaccines avoiding use of animals for its propagation and titration.

3 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

014650   Harnagle R;Bhalwar R;Bhaskar S V (NO, HQ Southern Command (Med), Pune, Email: rajendra.harnagle@gmail.com) : Modalities of empowerment and strengthening of ex-servicemen. Med J Armed Forces India 2010, 66(2), 138-41.

Older people including ex-servicemen (ESM) in India are left to fend for themselves due to nuclear family system. Most children-are not staying with them due to reasons such as acquiring of education or employment at distant places. These factors, coupled with deteriorating health with advancing age, change in value system and attitude amongst children who give more importance to materialism, it was felt necessary to find modalities to empower and strengthen ESM by available methods of including progressive weight training, yoga and meditation. An interventional "Before and After" study was planned for a period of three months for in-patient ESM of a military hospital for common lifestyle diseases namely stroke, diabetes, senile depression, acute myocardial infarction and hypertension. Data of anthropometry, laboratory investigations and Hamilton rating scale for depression (HRSD) were taken before the study. These cases were then subjected to interventions (progressive weight training and spiritual health enhancement by yoga with meditation for three months) followed by same measurements again. Statistically significant differences were observed before and after study with respect to pulse, respiratory rate, blood pressure, blood glucose, total cholesterol, low density lipoproteins (LDL), very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) and Hamilton depression score (p<60>0.05). The sleep pattern, sense of well being and posture while sitting to standing and walking with degree of support (stick/other person's help) improved considerably after the interventions. ESM are recommended to be trained much before retirement on progressive weight training and yoga in regimental centre/station institute. Provision to be made in existing ex-servicemen contributory health scheme (ECHS) polyclinics for employment of part time trainers for weight training and yoga. The physical and spiritual strengthening results in better capability to deal with old age and its problems.

4 table, 9 ref

014649   Ghosh A;Bhattacharya M;Sarkar P;Acharya S; Chaudhuri S (Laboratory Medicine Dep, School of Tropical Medicine, 108, CR Avenue, CR Avenue, Kolkata-700 073, Email: swapna.chaudhuri@gmail.com) : T11 target structure exerts effector function by activating immune cells in CNS Against glioma where cytokine modulation provid favorable microenvironment. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(9), 879-88.

Glycoprotein T 11 target structure (Tl ITS), derived from sheep erythrocyte membrane, directly interacts with T cells to activate them to enter in the brain. When untreated, glioma exerts an immune-suppressive environment in its vicinity by secreting prostaglandin E2 (PGE₂), IL-10, tumor growth factor β, gangliosides etc. to dampen the immune attack. But exogenous administration of Tl ITS reverses the situation to pro-inflammatory immune active state by expressing enhanced IL-12 and tumor necrosis factor a (TNF-α) production and suppression of IL-4 and IL-10 levels. The T11TS activated lymphocytic accumulation along the capillary endothelium in brain and their penetration in the matrix was evident from histological sections. IL-6 with TNF-α facilitates leukocyte migration to glioma site to exert cytotoxic effector function. Brain infiltrated lymphocytes offer cytotoxic proximity to neoplastic glial cells, which lead them to apoptosis. In the Thl dominated microenvironment microglial cells was found with enhanced phagocytic functions. Initially infiltrated lymphocytes with microglia showed increased production of TNF-α, interferon γ (IFN-γ) to facilitate their effector actions. Repeated dosing of T11TS shows glioma abrogation in rat model, but also a resurgence of anti-inflammatory cytokine environment found with increased IL-4, IL-10 and decreased IL-12, IL-6, TNF-α, This is a unique homeostatic regulation of total immune system after Tl1TS mediated carnage of glioma. The resultant balance of cytokines between interacting glioma cells, T cells and microglia in Tl1TS induced condition determines the success of its immunotherapeutic effect in glioma.

6 illus, 25 ref

014648   Gayathri D;Rajan A;Joga M;Kaur S (Royal Life Science Pvt Ltd, Plot No. 41, Samrat Colony, West Marredpally, Secunderabad-500 026) : Antibacterial effect of pyocyanin on wound microinhabitants. Bioinfolet 2010, 7(4), 313-14.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa was isolated from wound sample and cultured to extract pyocyanin (5-Methylphenazin-l-one). Capability of P. aeruginosa in producing phenazine pigment, as well as the bactericidal effect of pyocyanin on wound micro inhabitants was evaluated. Antibacterial effect was maximum for Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Proteus sp, except for Staphylococcus aureus showing minimum inhibition.

4 ref

014647   Deshpande S D;Kulkarni K S (Microbiology Dep, T.N.M.C. & B.Y.L. Nair Hospital, Mumbai Central-400 008, Email: sunita_dd@yahoo.com) : In vitro effect of some Indian honeys on Staphylococcus aureus from wounds. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(9), 931-5.

Staphylococcus aureus is the most frequently isolated pathogen from wounds with multiple resistances to antibiotics. Honey has been demonstrated and reported to be effective antibacterial agent on Gram positive and Gram negative organisms. Hence, the present study was conducted to evaluate the in vitro antibacterial effect of Indian honeys on Staphylococcus aureus obtained from wounds. A total of 123 Staphylococcus aureus isolates along with ATCC 25923 were categorized as sensitive, multi drug resistant (MDR) and non-MDR strains. Out of total nine Indian honeys (three each of unifloral, multifloral and branded marketed honey) used, three unifloral and three multifloral honey samples showed antibacterial activity against all the organisms tested by Agar diffusion method but not the branded marketed honeys. The MIC values of all honey samples for all studied Staphylococcus aureus isolates ranged between 5-15% (v/v). Unifloral honey samples showed higher antibacterial activity than multifloral honey. The single sample of Jambhul honey showed the highest activity. Thus, Indian honeys were found to be effective for their antimicrobial activity on sensitive, non-MDR, MDR and ATCC strains of S. aureus.

2 tables, 14 ref

014646   Coelho A C;Pinto M L;Miranda A;Coelho A M; Pires M A;Matos M (Veterinary Sciences Dep, Tras-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal, Email: accoelho@utad.pt) : Comparative evaluation of PCR in ziehl-neelsen stained smears and PCR in tissues for diagnosis of Mycobacterium ovium subsp. Paratuberculosis. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(9), 948-50.

Thirty six tissues from sheep, previously diagnosed with paratuberculosis, were tested by PCR in positive Ziehl-Neelsen staining smears of tissues, and PCR in tissues targeting IS900 specific for Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis. DNA amplification was achieved in 33.3% Ziehl-Neelsen smears, and in 61.1% tissue samples. Combination of both techniques found 66.7% samples as positive. Combination of techniques would, therefore, increase the sensitivity of diagnosis.

14 ref

014645   Chen R;Lilin S;Yang S P;Shen-Tu J L;Liang W F;Chen H W;Zhang L L;Huan Y F (NO, College of Biotechnology and Material Science, East China Institute of, Fuzhou 34400, P.R. China, Email: Chw8868@gmail.com) : Rapid detection of powdered antibiotics by surface desorption atmospheric pressure chemical ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Res J Chem Envir 2010, 14(1), 11-23.

A homemade surface desorption atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (SDAPCI) source was coupled to a linear ion trap(LTQ) mass spectrometer for direct detection of various active constituents such as amoxicillin, norfloxacin, cefradine in ^powdered pharmaceutical preparations. In the SDAPCI source, ambient air (relative humidity 60%) was used as a reagent and a corona discharge was employed to generate primary reagent ions (H ₃O⁺, for instance), which were then directed to impact the sample surface for desorption and ionization at atmospheric pressure. Under the optimized experimental conditions, photolysis products of norfloxacin were rapidly detected and identified. The detection limit of 8 x 10^-13 g/cm² was achieved in the tesing of antibiotics. Single sample analysis was completed within 1 min. The results show that multiple stage SDAPCI mass spectrometry is a useful tool for fast detection of active ingredients and trace impurities in powdered medicines, especially when the DAPCI technique is coupled with portable mass spectrometers.

5 illus, 32 ref

014644   Brizhik L (Nonlinear Condensed Matter Physics Dep, Bogolyubov Institute for Theoretical Physics ukrainian National Academ, Metrologichna Str., 14-b, 03680 kyiv, Ukraine, Email: brizhik@bitp.kiev.ua) : Nonlinear mechanism for weak photon emission from biosystems. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(5), 353-7.

The nonlinear mechanism for the origin of the weak biophoton emission from biological systems is suggested. The mechanism is based on the properties of solitons that provide energy transfer and charge transport in metabolic processes. Such soliton states are formed in alpha-helical proteins. Account of the electron-phonon interaction in macromolecules results in the self-trapping of electrons in a localized soliton-like state, known as Davydov's solitons. The important role of the helical symmetry of macromolecules is elucidated for the formation, stability and dynamical properties of solitons. It is shown that the soliton with the lowest energy has an inner structure with the many-hump envelope. The total probability of the excitation in the helix is characterized by interspine oscillations with the frequency of oscillations, proportional to the soliton velocity. The radiative life-time of a soliton is calculated and shown to exceed the life-time of an excitation on an isolated peptide group by several orders of magnitude.

1 illus, 18 ref

014643   Bose S;Basak S;Mallick S K;Chakraborty K; Chakraborty D (NO, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Sawangi (M), Wardha-442 004, Email: drseema11ghosh@hotmail.com) : Street food : from dish to petri dish. Indian med Gaz 2010, 144(4), 129-32.

Street vended food provides a ready to eat food and drink to a large population at an affordable price. But most of the time the consumers who depend on such foods are interested in its convenience than its hygiene. The present study was undertaken to detect bacterial contamination of street vended food in Wardha, a district headquarter. This is the first study of this kind from central India. A total of 83 samples collected from different parts of Wardha were tested in this project for bacterial contamination. Among which 58 were food items and 25 were fruit juices. 89.7% foods and 88% drinks were found to be contaminated by mesophilic aerobic bacteria. Personal hygiene of the street food vendors and environmental hygiene must be maintained properly to prevent food contamination.

2 tables, 14 ref

014642   Bibu K J;Joy A D;Mercey K A (Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Thrissur-680 651, Email: bibujohn@rediffmail.com) : Therapeutic effect of ethanolic extract of Hygrophila spinosa T. Anders on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(9), 911-7.

Therapeutic effect of ethanolic extract of Hygrophila spinosa in gentamicin-induced nephrotoxic model of kidney injury in male Sprague-Dawley rats was studied. Rats were administered with gentamicin at a dose of 80 mg/kg intraperitoneally (ip) to induce nephrotoxicity. Kidney function was assessed by measuring serum creatinine and urea. Kidney superoxide dismutase, lipid peroxidation, catalase and reduced glutathione were also measured in control and treated rats. H. spinosa extract showed free radical scavenging activities at doses of 50 and 250 mg/kg with a predominant activity at 250 mg/kg. The ethanolic extract also caused a reduction in serum creatinine and urea levels. Histopathological studies were conducted to confirm the therapeutic action of the plant extract. The results demonstrated that the ethanolic extract of whole plant of H. spinosa evinced the therapeutic effect and inhibited gentamicin-induced proximal tubular necrosis.

1 illus, 2 tables, 43 ref

014641   Bhanu S V;Philip B;Kunjamma K P;Jose J (NO, , No. 26, B.T. Ranadhive Road, Edappally P.O., Cochin-682 024, Email: smithabhanu_76@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of ethanol on haematological parameters of Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters). Pollut Res 2009, 28(4), 637-42.

Studies were conducted to ascertain the effect of sub lethal concentrations of ethanol on some blood parameters in Oreochromis mossambicus. The study revealed alterations in Hb value, RBC Count, WBC Count, ESR, FPRC, PCV, Red cell indices etc. Results indicated significant (P<60>0.001) differences in Hb, RBC, WBC, ESR, Packed red cells, PCV, MCH, MCHC and MCV levels at 0.1% level.

4 tables, 29 ref

014640   Bajpai R P (Sophisticated Analytical Instruments facility, North Eastern Hill Univ, Shillong-793 022, Email: rpbajpai@yahoo.com) : Quantum nature of photon signal emitted by Xanthoria parietina and its implications to biology. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(5), 420-32.

The properties of living systems are usually described in the semi-classical framework that makes phenomenological division of properties into four classes- matter, psyche, soft consciousness and hard consciousness. Quantum framework provides a scientific basis of this classification of properties. The scientific basis requires the existence of macroscopic quantum entity entangled with quantum photon field of a living system. Every living system emits a photon signal with features indicating its quantum nature. Quantum nature of the signal emitted by a sample of X. parietina is confirmed by analysing photo count distributions obtained in 20000 measurements of photon number in contiguous bins of sizes of 50, 100, 200, 300 and 500 ms. The measurements use a broadband detector sensitive in 300-800 nm range (Photo count distributions of background noise and observed signal are measured similarly. These measurements background noise corrected squeezed state parameters of the signal. The parameters are signal strength expressed in counts per bin, r =0.06, θ = 2.76 and φ = 0.64. The parameters correctly reproduce photo count distribution of any bin size in 50ms-6s range. The reproduction of photo count distributions is a credible evidence of spontaneous emission of photon signal in a quantum squeezed state for macroscopic time by the sample. The evidence is extrapolated to other living systems emitting similar photon signals. It is suggested that every living system is associated with a photon field in squeezed state. The suggestion has far reaching implications to biology and provides two ways of observing and manipulating a living system- either through matter or field or a combination of the two. Some implications and possible scenarios are elaborated.

4 illus, 17 ref

014639   Azhahianambi P;Ghosh S;Ashok Kumar C; Suryanarayana V V S (Parasitology Div, Entomology Laboratory, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243 122, Email: sghoshp@yaho.co.in) : Cost effectiveness of colony lysis and colony PCR methods of screening of recombinant Escherichia coli colonies - a comparative study. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(10), 731-5.

Economizing the research protocols by using low cost technologies is the need of laboratories of developing world. Screening of recombinant E. coli colonies is the crucial step in gene cloning and expression studies. In the present study, the cost effectiveness of colony lysis method and colony PCR method in the screening of recombinant E. coli colonies was compared. The colony lysis method was 20 two times more cost effective and less time consuming and can be used to screen the recombinant E. coli colonies in large scale instead of colony PCR method.

3 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

014638   Arora P;Lakhchaura B D;Garg S K (Microbiology Dep, G. B. Pant Agriculture and Technology Univ, College of Veterinary Sciences Pantnagar-263 145, Email: payalarora2002@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of immunogenic potential of 75kDa and 56kDa proteins venom of newcastle disease virus (NDV). Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(9), 889-95.

The R₂B strain of virus of new castle disease virus (NDV) was propagated in 9-11 day old embryonated chicken eggs via allantoic cavity route and after seven serial passages virus was purified from allantoic fluid. Purified virus was analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis which yielded six major polypeptides ranging from 38-200 kDa. Protein fractions, corresponding to 75 and 56kDa, resembling haemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) and fusion (F) proteins were used to ascertain their immunization potential. Immunization of viral proteins was compared with the whole virus vaccine. Among different group of birds, highest haemagglutination inhibition (HI) and enzyme linked immunosorbent, assay (ELISA) liters were obtained in birds immunized with whole virus vaccine followed by viral proteins, 75 and 56kDa in combination which was comparable with birds immunized with 56kDa protein alone. Despite lower values of HI and ELISA liters elicited by viral subunits in immunized birds, when challenged wilh virulenl NDV strain, protection accorded by viral proleins in combination (75 +56kDa) or 56kDa alone was comparable with whole virus vaccine.

2 illus, 3 tables, 31 ref

014637   Aranha I;Bhagya M;Yajurvedi H N (Zoology Dep, Mysore Univ, Manasagangorti, Mysore-570 006, Email: mbhagya9@rediffmail.com) : Concentration of cations in different parts of male reproductive system and their influence on in vitro sperm motility in lizard, Mabuya carinata Schneider. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(10), 720-4.

Concentrations of mono- and divalent cations in the testis, three different regions of the epididymis and the vas deferens of lizard, M. carinata were determined. The concentrations of Na⁺, K⁺ and Ca²⁺ increased gradually from testis to vas deferens. However, no significant variation in the levels of Mg²⁺ was observed between testis and anterior epididymis, and between posterior epididymis and vas deferens. Further, in an in vitro sperm motility study, wherein different concentrations of the cations were tested, the maximum forward progressive motility of posterior epididymal spermatozoa was observed following treatment with 140 mMNaCl, 25 mM KC1, and 50 mMCaCl₂ whereas, treatment with magnesium brought about a decrease in sperm motility. The results indicate that Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺ have stimulatory effect at an optimum dose, whereas Mg²⁺ has an inhibitory effect even at very low concentration, on sperm motility in the lizard M. carinata.

1 illus 1 table, 26 ref

014636   Agabou A;Alloui N (PADESCA Laboratory, Veterinary Institute, Constantine Univ, 25000, Algeria) : Importance of Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) as a reservoir for pathogenic bacteria in algerian broiler houses. Vet Wld 2010, 3(2), 71-3.

During 2008, a study has been conducted on the potential of Alphitobius diaperinus as a reservoir of many poultry pathogenic bacteria, in twenty broiler houses in the North-East of Algeria. Many groups of bacteria have been enumerated; Salmonella and thermophilic campylobacters contaminations have been searched. Both adults and larvae carried and harbored multiple species and numbers of poultry pathogenic bacteria. 5% of adults' surfaces were Salmonella arizonae -positive and no thermophilic campylobacters were identified. Interiors of both adults and larvae were more contaminated with gram-negative bacteria, conforms and streptococci than their surfaces. As this insect is an important source of poultry pathogenic bacteria in our region, serious measures must be implemented to control it.

1 table, 10 ref

013555   Uikey S K;Yadav A S;Bajaj A;Sharma A K; Badkhane Y;Rai A K (Molecular Biology and Seed Technology Lab, Govt Motilal Vigyan Mahavidyalaya (MVM), Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal, Madya Pradesh) : Effect of growth regulators on callus induction in leaf segments of Psoralea corylifolia - and endangered medicinal plant. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 145-8.

Psoralea corylifolia L. is an important medicinal plant species, belonging to the family Fabaceae, can be useful in the treatment of various skin diseases. However its seeds dormancy, low viability and hard seed coat, making the propagation of this species a challenge. With the objective of establishing an alternative route for the propagation, the effect of different concentrations of 2, 4-D (2, 4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) with BAP (6-benzyl amino purine) or NAA (α-naphthalene acetic acid) and of TDZ (thidiazuron) with BAP and their possible combinations were evaluated for callus induction in leaf segments. Callus fresh mass was evaluated after forty-five days of inoculation. The isolated use of BAP and the combination of TDZ with BAP, did not promote calogenesis in leaf segments. Even though the combination of 2, 4-D with BAP or NAA had induced the formation of callus, it was the isolated use of 2, 4-D that provided the highest callus fresh mass.

1 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

013554   Tirpude J;Charde V (Zoology Dep, Rashtra Sant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur) : Scanning electron microscopic study of amniotic fluid in the megachiropteran bat, Rousettus leschenaultii (Desmerest) and human beings at full term pregnancy. J Mahatma Gandhi Inst Med Sci 2010, 15(1), 57-9.

The amnion of full term pregnant uterus of Microchiropteran bat, Hipposideros speoris (Schneider was taken and examination done. On SEM, at low magnification the single layered amniotic surface appeared to be thrown into folds in Microchiropteran bat, Hipposideros speoris (Schneider in near tenn and the polygonal cells gave a mosaic or "cobble stone" appearance was due to the presence of deep recesses or troughs between adjacent cells. In the intercellular gaps openings or "Ostia" were common. The surface morphology of normal term amnion of human being was studied by scanning microscopy. Four patterns were observed. Two of the patterns show distinctive minority population of the cells. In one, there was cells surrounded by intracellular chaimels, in the other, there were large flat cells. The microvilli in all four patterns showed variable morphology in different samples, possible functional implications of the findings are discussed. The present study was undertaken to assess the range of appearance found in the normal amnion at term preliminary to a study of the amnion.

1 illus, 7 ref

013553   Tarafdar P (Anthropology Dep, University of North Bengal, Raja Rammohanpur, District Darjeeling-734 013, Email: pinak_trafdar@rediffmail.com) : Concepts and techniques of population control among the Santals and the Koras of Midnapore (West) district, West Bengal. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(2), 133-8.

The most crucial problem facing the nation today is the galloping population which has been growing at an alarming rate. The next two decades will witness an immense increase in the number of persons in 15-59 age groups and there is a need to meet health and contraceptives needs of this population. From time immemorial the tribal population of the country have been using the traditional concept of family planning or population control. But now they are found to be more inclined to the modern methods of limiting the family size. The present study explores both traditional and modern concepts and technique of family size limitation among the Santals and the Koras of Jhargram subdivision of the district of West Midnapore, West Bengal.

3 tables, 8 ref

013552   Taksande A;Pawar S;Singh R (Physiology Dep, M.G.I.M.S., Sevagram, Email: sramji57@gmail.com) : F-wave latency in healthy subjects. J Mahatma Gandhi Inst Med Sci 2010, 15(2), 59-63.

Determination of F-wave latency is a simple and valuable method in evaluating proximal part of peripheral nerves. The aim of this study was to determine mean median, ulnar, tibial and peroneal F -wave minimum latency in normal healthy individuals in the region as well as to study the effect of different physiological parameters on it. A total of 175 individuals were studied between age group of 18 and 66 years. F-minimum latency was recorded from bilateral median, ulnar, tibial and peroneal nerves using standardized techniques. Data collected was stratified by gender, age, height and body mass index (BMI). Gender, age and height showed significant (P <60> 0.05) influence on f-minimum latency, however, no observable fixed trend was found according to varying BMI. Gender, age and height had major role in F-wave latency determination. These factors must be taken into consideration in clinical evaluation of patients.

4 tables, 14 ref

013551   Stella C;Raghunathan C (Oceanography and Coastal Area Studies Dep, Alagappa University, Thondi Campus, Thondi-623 409) : Age and growth of muricid gastropods Chicoreus virgineus (Roading 1798) and Muricanthus virgineus (Roading 1798) from thondi coast, palk bay, Bay of Bengal. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2009, 8(2), 237-45.

Age and growth of the Chicoreus virgineus (Roading 1798) and Muricanthus virgineus (Roading 1798) species were determined using different methods such as size frequency method, probability plot method and Von Bertalanffy's growth equation. Using Peterson's method, male of Chicoreus virgineus was found to attain a maximum length of 7.25cm and the female a length of 10.2cm in the 4^th year. In Muricanthus virgineus male and female attained a length of 8.5cm and 11.4cm respectively in 4^th year. The results of probability plot method revealed that the male of Chicoreus virgineus reached a maximum length of 8.55cm, and the female 10.35cm in the 4^th year. However, in Muricanthus virgineus, the maximum length of 9.4cm in male and 11.00cm in female were found in 4^th year. Using Von Bertalanffy's equation, Chicoreus virgineus male was found to attain a length of 8.85cm, and the female a length of 1 O.35cm while the male of Muricanthus virgineus calculated as 9.4cm, and the female 11.00cm of lengths in 4^th year.

12 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

013550   Srivastava V K (Anthropology Dep, University of Delhi, Delhi-110 007, Email: vkskhursheed@rediffmail.com) : Impact of anthropology. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(2), 177-92.

The society in which anthropologists (like the others) live has all sorts of inequality. domination. exploitation. suppression, intolerance. ethno-and ego-centrism, and untiring attempts towards homogenization, although. at the normative and theoretical level, it may claim to subscribe to those values for which contemporary anthropology stands. The gulf between the ideational and existential, what societies say and what the reality is, is an important sociological question for investigation. The author concludes, anthropology should not remain confined to a narrow group of academies. We need to attend to the issues ofpublic importance.

19 ref

013549   Srivastava D;Anita Kumari;Misra N (Botany Dep, D.D.U. Gorakhpur Univ, Gorakhpur-273 009) : Fungal spoilage of some fruits and screening of some leaves for fungitoxicity. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIV), 421-30.

The sample of fruits of Malus sylvestris (L.) Mill, Musa paradisiaca L. and Psidium guajava L. were collected from fruit vendors, fruit shop and mandies of Gorakhpur and brought to the laboratory in presterilized polythene bags. A total of sixteen fungi associated with the fruits were isolated by standard method. Dynamics of rotting, test for pathogenicity and weight loss were observed. Dynamics of rotting was highest for Trichothecium roseum Pers. Link. Ex. which also caused highest loss of weight of all the fruits. Extracts of 21 angiospermic plants were tested for their efficacy against Trichothecium roseum Pers. Link. Ex. by inverted plate method. Croton bonplandianum Baill exhibited 100% efficacy. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was 5000 ppm.

5 illus, 5 tables, 24 ref

013548   Singh V P;Kumar S;Sanjeev Singh (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005) : Isolation and characterization of antibiotic and antimetabolite resistant mutants of Rhizobium sp. and their symbiotic interaction with Sesbania aculeata L.. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtII), 143-6.

A native rhizobial strain (Rhizobium sp.) nodulating dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata L.) was isolated, and designated as RS-02. The sensitivity of RS-02 strain was studied against two antibiotics (Streptomycin and Rifampicin) and one antimetabolite (Sodium azidc). Spontaneously occurring antibiotic/antimetabolite resistant mutants were isolated and designated as Str, Rif and Azi respectively. These resistant mutants were examined for their physiological characteristics (carbon and nitrogen utili-zation), cross resistance to each other and symbiosis with the host plant dhaincha. The parent strain along with resistant mutants were tested for their nodulation and symbiotic ni-trogen fixation traits. It was found that all the mutant strains were able to infect dhaincha roots. The effectiveness of the marked rhizobial mutants in dhaincha exhibited a significant difference in symbiotic traits.

3 tables, 17 ref

013547   Singh S K;Prasad M (NO, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, 53 University Road, Lucknow-226 007, Email: sanjai_sk2002@yahoo.co.in) : Addition to the upper tertiary flora of Mahuadanr valley, district Latehar, Jharkhand, India. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIV), 402-9.

Studies on the leaf impressions collected from Upper Tertiary sediments of Mahuadanr valley, Jharkhand, India have been carried out. It revealed the occurrence of some new taxa belonging to the genera Casearia (Flacourtiaceae), Ailanthus (Simaroubaceae), Vitis (Vitaceae), Toona (Meliaceae) and Holarrhena (Apocynaceae) of dicotyledonous families. Present distribution of all the modern comparable species of the fossils indicates that almost all the taxa are presently found in the mixed deciduous forests of the Himalayan foot hills, central India, south India as well as in the adjoining area of the Mahuadanr valley. It is thus concluded that such type of forest was flourishing in and around the fossil locality during the sedimentation and still continued till now.

3 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

013546   Singh P;Joshi D (Pathology Dep, MGIMS, Sevagram, Wardha,-442 102) : Fish - fluorescent in situ hybridization. J Mahatma Gandhi Inst Med Sci 2010, 15(1), 80-2.

Fluorescent in situ Hybridization detects nucleic acid sequences by a fluorescent probe that hybridizes specifically to its complementary target sequence within the intact cell.

7 ref

013545   Singh M J;Khera K L (Soils Dep, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 010, Email: mnjsingh@yahoo.com) : Soil erodibility indices under different land uses in lower Shiwaliks. Trop Ecol 2008, 49(2), 113-19.

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate soil erodibility indices in relation to runoff and soil loss in the submontaneous tract (30° 40' to 32° 30' N and 75° 30' to 76° 40' E ) of Punjab (India). Study was conducted under natural and simulated rainfall conditions at four locations under four land uses at each location viz., barren, cultivated, grassland and forest land use. Values of dispersion ratio, clay ratio (CR), and modified clay ratio (MCR) were observed to be the highest at Ballowal Saunkhri II, erosion ratio was highest at Saleran, whereas, water stable aggregates (WSA) were highest at Kokowal Majari location. Among different land uses these indices were in the order of barren = cultivated <62> grassland <62> forest. However, WSA followed the opposite trend. Higher positive correlation of CR and MCR was observed with soil loss except for WSA index where the values were highly negative. WSA and MCR were observed to be better indices of soil erodibility.

2 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

013544   Singh D P;Bahadur A;Singh P;Singh J S;Singh U P (Mycology and Plant Pathology Dep, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005) : Phenolic constituenets of Centella asiatica L. and Andrographis paniculata (Burn.f) wall. ex Nees. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIV), 399-401.

HPLC analysis of different parts of Centella asialica L. and Andrographis paniculata (Burn. f) Wall. ex Nees revealed the presence of tannic (Rt 2.27 min), gallic (Rt 2.92 min), caffeic (Rt 3.26 min), vanillic (Rt 3.26 min), ferulic (Rt 3.40 min), chlorogenic (Rt 4.16 min), cinnamic (Rt 4.46 min) and salicylic (Rt 7.35 min) acids in various proportions. Qualitative and quantitative variations in phenolic acid profile of both the plants were observed. While gallic acid was present in all parts of both the plants, its maximum amount was present in the leaves of C. asiatica (24.2 μg) and fruits of A. paniculata (17.2 μg). Caffeic acid was maximum in leaves of C. asiatica and A. paniculata (6.2 and 7.4 μg/g fresh wt, respectively). The chlorogenic acid was not found in the parts of C. asiatica, however, it was present in the leaves (17.2 μg/g fresh wt.) and fruits (3.6 μg/g fresh wt.) of A. paniculata. Other phenolic acids along with salicylic acid were found in both the plants in varying amounts.

1 table, 7 ref

013543   Shyam Prasad G;Girisham S;Reddy S M (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya University, Warangal-506 009, Email: shyamprasad1919@yahoo.com) : Biotransformation of meloxicam by Aspergillus fumigatus and fusarium moniliforme isolated from soil. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2009, 32(5-6), 157-62.

Microbial transformation of meloxicam was investigated using fungi isolated from soil by enrichment technique. Among the six fungi isolated, Aspergillus fumigatus and Fusarium moniliforme could transform meloxicam to one metabolite. Other fungi isolated, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium graminearum and Penicillium chlysogenum failed to transform meloxicam. The transformation was confirmed by HPLC and the structure of the metabolite was determined based on LC-MS data and previous reports as 5-hydroxymethy meloxicam, the known mamªmalian metabolite. The results suggest that the soil enrichment is a useful technique for isolation of fungi capable of biotransformation, and is an attractive, remarkable and promising tool in drug discovery.

3 illus, 23 ref

013542   Shukla A N;Singh K P;Singh J S (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Central Circle, Allahabad-211 002, Email: krishna.p.singh@gmail.com) : Invasive alien species of Achanakmar-Amarkantak biosphere reserve, central India. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIV), 385-92.

Deals with the survey of invasive alien species in the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve. A total of 106 invasive alien species belonging to 77 genera, spread over 36 families were documented. Approximately 51.72% of alien species collected were introduced from Tropical America, followed by 5.30% from Africa. Analysis of data indicates that the family Asteraceae was most predominant (25 species), followed by Caesalpiniaceae (7 species), Amaranthaceae (7 species), Convolvulaceae (6 species), Poaceae (4 species) and Tiliaceae (4 species). Present study provides a base-line data which could be used to monitor and develop strategies for control of alien species.

1 table, 20 ref

013541   Shrivastava M;Patro N;Kamendra Kumar;Patro I K (School of Studies in Neuroscience, Jiwaji Univ, Gwalior) : Changes in pain sensitivity with age, differ in male and female wistar rats, Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhout). Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIII), 235-9.

The study is designed to examine the pain sensitivity among different age groups of wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus Berkenhout). Nociception was measured by tail flick latency (TFL) in male and female rats of 1, 4, 8, 12,20 and 26-30 months age groups with a view to determine the age related changes in pain sensitivity. The baseline tail flick latencies (bTFL) were calculated for each rat as the mean ± S.E.M. Two-way ANOVA was applied on mean values of baseline tail flick latencies. The results show high pain sensitivity at 1 month of age; while the 8 months old animals had low sensitivity to pain. The females showed significantly more sensitivity to pain from 8 to 26-30 months of age than the males of the same age. This difference in pain sensitivity between male and female was significant (P<60>0.05) on 8,12, 20 and 26-30 months. The present results demonstrate gender and age associated differences in nociception sensitivity.

1 illus 1 table, 29 ref

013540   Shivakumar S L;Asma S;Karigar C S (Biochemistry Dep, Central College Campus, Bangalore University, Bangalore-560 001, Email: karigar@bub.ernet.in) : Phytochemical distribution profile among Solanaceae members. Vegetos 2009, 22(2), 59-66.

The Solanum genus members belonging to Solanaceae family contain several secondary metabolites distributed in their organs. Present attempt is to know the distribution and quantification of various phytochemicals such as total phenols, tannins and alkaloids. The extracts prepared from root, stem and leaves of Datura stramonium, Solanum nigrum, Solanum melongena, Capsicum anum and Lycopersicon esculentum have been subjected to qualitative and quantitative analysis. The results showed varying distribution profiles of the phytochemicals investigated. The root samples of S. nigrum, S. melongena, C. anum and L. esculentum are qualitatively rich in alkaloids whereas Datura stramonium was found to contain the alkaloids in the root, stem and leaf samples. The quantitative analysis for phytochemicals established that the arial parts of C. anum, L. esculentum and D. stromium contained more phenolics and tannins than their corresponding roots.

2 illus, 33 ref

013539   Sharma A;Sarma J;Biswas S P (Directorate of Fisheries, , Meen Bhawan, Guwahati-781 016) : Limno chemistry and trophic state index of floodplain wetlands of Kamrup district of Assam. Bull Life Sci 2009, 15(Mar), 41-9.

Limno- chemical parameters viz. water temperature, hydrogen ion concentration, dissolved oxygen, free carbon dioxide, total alkalinity and phosphate phosphorus of three floodplain wetlands of Kamrup district of Assam were analyzed during 2007 and 2008. Analyses of the data on limno-chemistry of the wetlands were indicative of their ecological status. Trophic State Index (TSI) was calculated which suggests that there was a possibility of cultural eutrophication from the marginal area. The fluctuation of TSI based on seasonal transparency of the selected wetlands may serve as indicator for assessing the baseline status of the wetland environment.

4 illus, 10 ref, 2 tables