013538   Saxena P N;Bajaj P;Saxena N;Anand S (Toxicology Laboratory, Zoology Dep, School of Life Sciences, Khandari Campus Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Univ, Agra-282 002) : Hepatoprotective role of Curcuma aromatica Salisb. leaf extract following arsenic trioxide intoxication in albino rats, Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhout). Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIII), 240-5.

Hepatoprotective properties of wild turmeric (Curcuma aromatica Salisb.) leaf extract have been investigated in a white rat, Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhot) with liver injury induced by acute (1 day) and subacute (7, 14 and 21 days) arsenic trioxide (As₂O₃) intoxication. The LD₅₀ estimated for arsenic trioxide was 14.98 mg/kg body weight. Oral administration of arsenic trioxide (1.5 mg, 0.2 mg, O.lmg and 0.07mg per kg body weight) brings about significant alterations in the concentration of aminotransferases (ALT and AST) and total proteins, the markers of functional state of liver. Pretreatment with hundred times diluted Curcuma aromatica leaf extract at the rate of 1 ml/kg body weight brings back the altered biochemical profile of aminotransferases and total proteins to normalcy. The results reveal antioxidant property of curcumin present in Curcuma aromatica leaf extract to be responsible for hepatoprotectivity against arsenic trioxide toxicity.

4 illus, 2 tables, 34 ref

013537   Samantara S S;Reddy M V (Ecology and Environmental Science Dep, Pondicherry Univ, Kalapet, Puducherry-605 014, Email: venkateshsrinivas@gmail.com) : Effect of kitchen-waste vermicompost on chlorophyll content, leaf area index, biomass and other growth characteristics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graceum Linn.) under field conditions. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIII), 312-7.

Kitchen-waste converted into vermicompost using the earthworm, Eudrilus euginae (Kingberg) was stabilized to 70% by weight. When used for growing fenugreek, Trigonella foenum graceum Linn. (Fabaceae) under field conditions in a kitchen garden, it increased the germination by <62> 90% compared to that of compost-free garden soil. The carbon content of compost and vermicompost was higher by 2.75 and 3.17 times respectively, than that of the compost-free garden soil. It indicates the presence of more humic acid substances in the vermicompost. Different growth traits viz. plant height, leaf number, leaf area index, leaf chlorophyll content, biomass, branch length, number of lateral roots and root length in three different doses of compost and vermicompost of 80, 100 and 120 kg/ha, increased significantly (P<62>0.05) in the seedlings as compared to that of seedlings grown in the un-composted garden soil.

1 illus, 14 ref

013536   Renuka P;Anand K;Kaur A;Murthy M M (Zoology Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh) : Bharangin: an effective growth inhibitor for stored grain pest Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton). Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(1), 67-70.

The use of synthetic insecticides for controlling important storage insect pest, has caused the problem of resistance in insects, besides imposing increased residual effects. The use of formulations based on plant products have been suggested as an important alternative, for controlling insect pest of stored grains and their products. Likewise a plant product, Bharangin was isolated from the root nodules otPremma herbaceae. Stored grain peat Corcyra cephalonica causes damage to stored products like rice, maize, groundnut, cotton-seed etc. Hence, Bharangin was tried to control this pest. The larvae on treatment with Bharangin developed into larval-pupal intermediates, pupal-adult intermediates and malformed adults. Bharangin treated resultant adults had poorly developed wings, resulting in potential inhibition of flight. The ovary of these treated resultant adults had short ovarioles with large oocytes. These remained unovulated and later underwent degeneration. This led to reduction in the population thus raising hope for safe, cheap and eco-friendly control measure for stored grain pests.

4 plate, 1 table, 9 ref

013535   Rawat M;Sureshkannan S;Verma R (Biological Standardization Div, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243 122) : Prospects of bacteriophage therapy in modern medicine. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIV), 319-31.

Bacteriophages (phages) were used for the therapy of infectious diseases soon after their discovery during the earlier part of twentieth century. Once antibiotics were discovered, interest in phage therapy waned in the Western and Asian countries. But countries of Eastern Europe and the former USSR continued not only to practice this modality of treatment against infectious diseases but also developed it through consistent research efforts. The renewed worldwide approach to develop phage and phage-based antibacterial products (popularly known as 'Enzybiotics') into safe and reliable drugs because the virulent organisms are quickly developing resistance to a range of antibiotics. The understanding of the physiology and genetics of phages has also considerably increased during last sixty years. Phages have now become a subject of research in terms of determination of safety, immunogenicity, efficacy and (pharmaco) kinetics so that they can be employed as therapeutic agents in the countries that enforce regulations for commercialized Pharmaceuticals.

2 illus, 2 tables, 96 ref

013534   Rawat D S (Biological Sciences Dep, CBSH, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263 145, Email: drds_rawat@yahoo.com) : Dipcadi Medik. (Liliaceae) L: a disappearing genus in India. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2009, 32(7-8), 211-2.

Survival of genus Dipcadi (Liliaceae) is threatened in India to rarity of its species in wilds, narrow endemism, their uneconomic nature and ignorance of field taxonomy. While 2 species are already extinct, remaining 6 are not well protected and may disappear soon.

10 ref

013533   Raveendranath V;Manjunath K Y (Anatomy Dep, St. John's Medical College, Bangalore-560 034, Email: kymanjunath@rediffmail.com) : Anthropometric study of correlation between cephalic index, cranial volume and cranial measurements in Indian cadavers. J Mahatma Gandhi Inst Med Sci 2010, 15(2), 55-8.

Cephalic index is one of the important and frequently used cephalometric parameters by anthropologists to find out the racial differences. Aim of the present study was to find out if there exist any correlation between the cephalic index, cranial volume and cephalometric measurements using cadaver, heads using head length and head breadth, and head hieght cephalic index and cranial volume were calculated in ninety three formalin fixed cadavers (64 male and 29 female). The mean cephalic' index for male was 76.97 and for female 79.23. The head shapes as per the present study could be classified as mesocephafic. A positive correlation between cephalic index and cranial volume was found in both sexes. The data can be of anthropological importance in determination of race and also reconstruction of the head shape and size from remains of an individual where only fragment of the head or the skull is available.

4 tables, 14 ref

013532   Raja G V;Venu Gopal G;Raj Kumar P (Biotechnology Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Nagarjunagar-522 510, Email: balumphil@gmail.com) : Visible spectrophotometric determination of sulfamethaxazole in pharmaceutical formulations. Asian J Chem 2010, 22(2), 1037-1040.

Two simple, precise, accurate, costy effective and rapid spectro-phoiomeiric methods (mehod A and method B) were developed for the determination ot'sulfamethaxazole (SFX) in its bulk and dosage forms. The method A involves formation of chloroform extractable yellow colour ion pair complex of the drug with bromocresol green in acidic medium. Method B is based on the formation of ternary complex between drug, ammomium thiocyanate and ammonium molybdate in presence of ascorbic acid and HCl. The coloured complexes shows absorbance maxima at 430 and 690 nm for methods A and B, respectively. Beer's law is obeyed in the range of 2-10 μg/mL for both methods A and B. Results of analysis for all the methods were validated statistically and by recovery studies.

2 tables, 17 ref

013531   Purohit V K;Phondani P C;Maikhuri R K;Bag N; Prasad P;Nautiyal A R;Palni L M S (High Alitude Plant Physiology Research Centre, , Srinagar (Garhwal), Uttarakhand, Email: viiaykantpurohit@rediffmail.com) : In vitro propagation of Hippophae rhamnoides L. from hypocotyle explants. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2009, 32(5-6), 163-8.

An alternative in vitro propagation protocol for shoot differentiation from callus culture has been developed for Hippophae rhamnoides using hypocotyle part of in vitro germinated seedlings. Massive callus was obtained in WP medium containing 5.0 μM BA. Subsequently callus was transferred to WP medium containing various concentrations and combinations of BA and GA₃ for shoot differentiation. The combination of BA (5.0 μM) and GA) (1.0 μM) resulted in maximum response in terms of shoot differentiation i.e., 8 shoots per callus lump after 28 days of culture. However, lower concentration of SA (0.5 μM) in the same medium resulted in better growth of shoots. Maximum rooting (78.0%) was obtained within 30 days when micro shoots (2-3cm) were cultured in WP medium with 0.5 μM NAA. The rooted plantlets were successfully transferred to soil mix (soil and farmyard manure, 3: 1) and hardened in nursery under shadehouse conditions.

^ssc1 illus, 3 tables, 23 ref

013530   Prathibha M;Krishna M S (Studies in Zoology Dep, Drosophila Stock Centre, Mysore Univ, Manasagangotri, Mysore, Karnataka) : Maternal age influence on sons fitiness traits in Drosophila ananassae. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 113-5.

Maternal age influence on sons fitness traits has been studied using out bred stock of D.ananassae. It was noticed that sons of middle aged female had lowest mating latency, longest copulation duration, higher courtship activities, fertility, fecundity and longevity compared to sons of young or old aged females. Females showed least rejection responses to sons of middle aged females compared to sons of old and young aged females. Thus these studies in D.ananassae suggest that sons of middle aged females had greater fitness than sons of old or young aged females confirming occurrence of Lansing effect of female age influence on son fitness traits.

1 table, 23 ref

013529   Phanse N;Desai P;Patel B (NO, P.M.B. Gujarati Science College, Indore, Madhya Pradesh) : Screening of high yielding, concomitant producer of alkaline protease and alkaline amylase. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 153-5.

Managing microorganisms and harnessing them for the production of commercially important products has become one of the most rapidly developing fields of research. Most of the enzymes used industrially are produced by microbes and amongst these, enzymes produced from alkalophiles exhibit unique applications. As the enzymes produced by alkalophiles have their pH optima in the alkaline range, they find potential applications in various industries viz. detergent, food, leather etc. Important extremozymes that are commercially used include alkaline proteases and alkaline amylase. The spectrum of applications of both these enzymes has expanded in fields like detergent formulations and in treatment of alkaline industrial wastes. Looking to the increased demand of alkaline protease and alkaline amylase, studies on the cost effective production of these enzymes has become the need of today. Multiple enzymes produced from a single organism can be a useful step in this direction. Considering the wide spectrum of applications of alkaline protease and alkaline amylase, alkalophilic bacteria producing both these enzymes, concomitantly, were screened. The present study reports the screening of alkalophilic bacteria producing both alkaline protease and alkaline amylase.

2 table, 13 ref

013528   Phadke V S;Mukherji D (NO, , ) : Spatial correlates of age structure in Maharshtra-2001. Trans Inst Indian Geogr 2010, 32(1), 81-92.

Age is a very important attribute of the quality of population and the literature on this theme focuses on spatial distribution of population belonging to different age groups along with its implications, such as, dependency. The present authors were also requested to prepare one such paper for Maharashtra by the Census Department for their seminar on dissemination of census data. After presentation of that paper, it was felt that convincing explanation of the distribution of population belonging to different age groups requires spatial correlation of the data with other socio-economic variables. The present exercise is an outcome of such an attempt. The analysis reveals that, in space, the age structure differentiates between migrant and native population, on the one hand, and groups within native population, including the tribal, on the other.

4 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

013527   Pathmanathan G;Raghavan P;Talwar I (Anthropology Dep, Panjab University, Chandigarh-160 014, Email: talwarindu@yahoo.co.in) : Bone age based quantitative radiogrammetry of the second metacarpal and the carpal angle among children of Chandigarh. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(2), 107-14.

Attained means of length, subperiosteal width, percentage cortex, crossª sectional cortical area, medullary area of the second metacarpal and carpal angle of the left hand of 1147 (583 boys and 564 girls) of high economic group children of Chandigarh aged between 6 - 16/18 years were studied for the first time on their radius, ulna and short bone age (RUS BA - Tanner- Whitehouse 2 system). Even though the differences between both the sexes were statistically insignificant, the bone age (BA) based attained means of length. periosteal width, medullary width, cross-sectional cortical area and the medullary area of the second metacarpal of the boys were more than those of the girls throughout the growing period. However the medullary width of the second metacarpal did not increase sharply throughout the growing period. The BA based attained means of the cortical thickness displayed a typical growth pattern - the boys' means were larger at the younger ages, the girls took over boys during their adolescence, again the boys took over when they entered their adolescence. The attained mean carpal angle of these children remained between 123°-132° with the means showing an increase of about 2-4° during their active growth period.

5 illus, 1 table, 51 ref

013526   Oyetunji O J;Fagbola O;Osonubi O (Botany and Microbiology Dep, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria, Email: solatunji2k2@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of contributions of Glomus species to uptake of micronutrient and its partitioning by cassava insub-humid tropics. Crop Res 2008, 35(3), 237-44.

Soil degradation and nutrient depletion have gradually increased and have become serious threats to agriculture in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The reduction of fallow from 6 to 2 years has had serious impact on food production in SSA, which has been on decline every year. The beneficial effects of arbuscular mycorrhizae on the micronutrient uptake and their partitioning in cassava are not well described. Field and pot experiments were conducted at Ajibode village and IITA, respectively, located in a derived savanna belt of Nigeria to investigate the role of AM fungi on micronutrient uptake and partitioning in cassava. Leuceana leucocephala and Senna siamea served as the multipurpose trees at Ajibode village. Glomus clarum (Nicholson and Schenck) was used to inoculate the cassava on the field. The pot experiments were set-up at IITA with G. fasciculatum as inoculant. The AM fungi introduced were able to enhance the uptakes of some of the trace elements (49.3 to 151.8% for Fe, 28.6 to 48.7% for Zn and 22.9 to 73.7% for Cu) in cassava both on the field and semi-controlled experiments. Fe (upto 687.98 μg/g) and Cu (35.06 μg/g) were significantly partitioned to the roots, while the tissue concentration of Zn (76.5 μg/ g) was significantly higher in most cases in the shoots than the roots. It was concluded that introduction of exotic AM fungi could improve cassava micronutrient uptake under alley cropping where competition for nutrient uptake was always fierce. Therefore, AM fungi are beneficial for greater productivity of cassava under low fertility conditions.

6 tables, 30 ref

013525   Nayak J K;Sarkar B N;Das P K;Rao V R (Anthropological Survey of India, , 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Kolkata-700 016, Email: pkdas123@gmail.com) : Protective ALDH2*2 allele in the bondo-highlanders of Orissa. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(2), 129-32.

A study on Bondo highlanders of Orissa was conducted to assess the allele frequency of Aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 (ALDH2), supposed to be responsible for providing protection to the alcohol drinkers from alcoholism. In the present study ALDH2*l/ 2*2 is in high frequency among high MAST (Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test) score group without any phenotypic expression. This might be due to the protective role of the ALDH2*2 allele.

1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

013524   Narasimha Rao K;Sarkar S;Girisham S;Reddy S M (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Incidence of toxigenic fusaria in different fodders of Godavari belt. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIII), 307-11.

Incidence of different species of Fusarium in fodder's paddy, maize and sorghum used by tribals of Godavari belt was analysed during one year (2005-06). Five species of Fuarium (F. moniliforme, F. oxysporum, F. solani, F. equiseti and F. semitectum) could be recorded in one or other samples of paddy straw and stover of maize and sorghum. Screening of 535 strains of different species of Fusarium revealed, 182 strains to be mycotoxigenic which elaborated a variety of mycotoxins like, zearalenone, T₂ toxin, HT₂, deoxynivalenone, Diacetoxy scrirpenol, nivalenol and neosolaniol etc.

2 tables, 25 ref

013523   Munesh Kumar;Bhatt V P;Malik V;Sharma C M (Forestry Dep, HNB Garhwal Univ, Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttrakhand, Email: muneshmuzu@yahoo.com) : Phytotoxic effect of traditional agroforestry trees on food crops in Garhwal Himalya. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtII), 175-9.

The allelopathic influences of extracts of leaves of Celtis australis L. and Grewia oppositifolia Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don were tested on seed germination and seedling growth (plumule and radicle extension) in Hordeum vulgare L. and Brassica campestris L. In bioassay studies the percent germination of Hordeum vulgare L. was negatively affected by higher concentration (2%) of the leachates of both the tree species, which was found significant (P<60>0.05) as compared to the control. The percent seed germination in Brassica campestris L. did not show any remarkable toxic effect under various treatments, but the seedling growth of Hordeum vulgare L. and Brassica campestris L. was significantly inhibited under 2% concentration of Celtis australis L. and Grewia oppositifolia Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don leaf extracts. The results have shown that Celtis australis L. and Grewia oppositifolia Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don can be phytotoxic for these food crops.

1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

013522   Mondal S R (Anthropology & Sociology Dep, Centre for Himalayan Studies, University of North Bengal, Raja Rammohumpur, District Darjeeling-734 013, Email: rahimanthnbu@yahoo.co.in) : Ethnic, social and cultural diversities of a Himalayan state: Bhutan. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(2), 147-53.

Present paper is an attempt to highlight the diversities among the peoples of Bhutan with particular reference to their ethnic, social and cultural characteristics. Emphasis has also been given to explore the cultural areas of Bhutan in relation to regional diversities of this landlocked state. Finally, interethnic relations of Bhutan has also be examined in the context of prospect of prosperity in diversity.

10 ref

013521   Mondal N;Sen J (Anthropology Dep, University of North Bengal, P.O. NBU, Raja Rammohunpur, District Darjeeling-734 013, Email: jaydipsen@redifmail.com) : Use of MUAC-for-height for the assessment of nuttritional status of rural children. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(2), 115-6.

A cross-sectional investigation of Mid-upper-arm circumference (MUAC) was under taken in seven primary schools situated in rural areas under Phansidewa block of West Bengal. The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the nutritional status of rural children aged 5 years to 10 years using MUAC-for-height. The incidence of malnutrition is the highest among boys (57.89%) as compared to girls (47.46%).

5 tables, 5 ref

013520   Mishra S;Srivastava R;Singh A;Sharma B K; Singh U P (NO, Institute of Bioengineering and Biological Sciences, Varuna Bridge, Varanasi-221 002, Email: upneem@sify.com) : Assessment of Bacillus licheniformis (vbr-1) against phytopathogenic fungi and its plant growth-promoting effect of wheat. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtII), 180-4.

The microorganisms have established themselves as an effective alternative to control plant pathogens. There are many examples of formulations using bacterial or fungal strains for biocontrol applications. Bacillus licheniformis (isolate vbr-1) which has been used in the present experiment showed antagonistic activity against several fungi viz., Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc., Curvularia lunata (Walk.) Boedijn, Bipolaris oryzae (Breda de Haan), Fusarium udum Butler, Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary, Aspergillus flavus Link ex Fr., and Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl when tested in dual culture technique. The ethanolic extract of test bacteria have revealed antifungal compounds of different Rf values in TLC. The bacterial culture extract also stimulated growth of wheat seedlings. The in vitro results of the experiments revealed that this bacterium may prove worthy for protecting plants from fungal infection. Its plant growth-promoting property is an additional factor in increasing crop yields. The leaves obtained from the treated and untreated wheat seeds with bacterial extract showed high amount of phenolic acids in the former as compared to control, when analyzed through High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC).

5 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

013519   Mbaekwe E I;Mackenzie J A (Botany Dep, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria, Email: drmbaekwe@yahoo.com) : The use of a best-fit allometric model to estimate aboveground biomass accumulation and distribution in an age series of teak (Tectona grandis L.f.) plantations at Gambari Forest Reserve, Oye State, Nigeria. Trop Ecol 2008, 49(2), 259-70.

Biomass accumulation and distribution in four selected plots of an age series (5, 8, 11 and 14 years) of teak plantations were studied. Ten trees per plot (50 m x 50 m) were randomly selected and destructively sampled for the fresh and oven-dry weights of their tree components. The dry weights of the tree components were regressed with their trunk diameters at breast height. The log : log allometric model was used to estimate the biomass. The trends in the biomass accumulation and distribution, as well as those of the mean annual increase in biomass, percentage contribution of the leaf biomass to the overall tree biomass and the undergrowth and litter were discussed. Because of its rapid rate of biomass accumulation compared to species of natural and other timber plantations, the use of teak as an alternative source of timber is justified.

7 tables, 35 ref

013518   Mandal R N;Meher P K;Naskar K R (NO, Wastewater Aquaculture (CIFA) Div, Rahara, Kolkata-700 118, Email: rnmandal2003@yahoo.com) : Effect of salinity on germination and seedling development of Heritiera fomes Buch. Ham.. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtII), 153-60.

The study deals with the effect of salinity on germination and seedling development of Heritiera fomes Buch. Ham. under different salinity treatments (0-30 ppt), both in laboratory and in-situ. It shows that salinity level <60>5 ppt had positive impact on germination and seedling establishment, while higher salinity affects the germination process, leading to unviable germination. In lower salinity level, between 0-5 ppt, all propaguies got germinated and 100% of seedling establishment occurred at cistern pots in laboratory conditions whereas 66.66% of seedling became established at 5 ppt level treatment in-situ condition. Consequently, viable germination reduced gradually in accordance with higher salinity. With the increase in salinity level unviable germination was found increasing, and propagule germination got delayed. One-way ANOVA (SAS vs.6.12) was used to test the effect of salinity on the germination and seedling growth of propaguies. The regression coefficient of the linear equation was found negative (as -0.006 and -0.010) from RGR values of seedlings in cistern pots and in-situ plots respectively. In this context, the hypothesis of lower salinity having positive impact on germination and seedling development of Heritiera fomes was strongly supported by the coefficient of determinant values (as R² = 0.987, R² = 0.976) in cistern pots and in-situ plots respectively.

2 illus, 5 tables, 22 ref

013517   Majumdar S P;Kumawat B L;Yadav B L (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, (Rajasthan Agricultural University) Camp: S.K.N. College of Agricultur, Jobner-303 329) : Influence of various soil properties on hydraulic conductivity of typic ustipasmment. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtII), 185-8.

Physical and chemical properties of five different pedons of typic ustipasmments were measured. Correlation coefficient between different soil properties were established. Sand, clay, bulk density and porosity showed significant positive as well as negative relationship with clay, bulk density, porosity, organic carbon as well as water retention at 33 kPa. Saturated hydraulic conductivity also showed significant positive as well as negative correlation with sand, clay, bulk density, porosity, organic carbon as well as water retention at 33 kPa. Prediction equation has also been calculated. Partial regression co-efficient (R₂) between hydraulic conductivity and some important soil properties revealed that 96% variation was alone explained due to independent variable i.e. the sand content of the soil.

3 tables, 8 ref

013516   Lodhi H S (Zoology Dep, Prawn Research Centre, Lucknow Univ, Lucknow-226 007) : Effect of copper sulphate on the kidney or green gland of fresh water prawns (Crustacea decapoda). Pollut Res 2009, 28(2), 187-92.

Fresh water prawns, Macrobrachium lamarrei and Macrobrachium dayanum were exposed to acute (96 hr LC₅₀ i.e. 0.304 mg/l for M. lamarrei and 0.418 mg/L for M. dayanum) and sub- acute (25% of 96 hr LC₅₀ i.e. 0.076 mg/L for M. lamarrei and 0,145 mg/L for M. dayanum) concentrations of Copper sulphate, showed vacuolization, inflammation, cell necrosis and rupturing of cells leaving pyknotic nuclei in their green gland tubular lumen. At sub-acute concentration tubular cells showed vacuolization, necrosis, karyorrhaxis, lysis of cell membrane and hyperplasia where as the wall of endsac showed severe hyperplasia and necrosis, thereby leading to almost complete disorganization of kidney. Heavy granular depositions were also noticed in inter tubular spaces after 30 day exposure. Initial heavy influx of haemocytes in kidney was reduced by increasing time exposure. Severity of alterations was dose and duration dependent. M. lamarrei appeared more sensitive to toxicant than M. dayanum by showing more pronounced pathomorphological changes in its green glands.

16 illus, 47 ref

013515   Leingaklemba M K;Tiwari O N (Microbial Resources Div, Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, Takyelpat, Imphal, Manipur) : Ecology of bacterial diversity of sacred groves forests having anti microbial activity and future prospects. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 175-80.

Natural products have been a critically important source of clinically relevant small molecule therapeutics. However, the discovery rate of novel structural classes of antimicrobial molecules has declined. The gene from natural product synthesis can be clone directly from S-DNA and expressed in heterologous host, supporting the idea that these technology has the potential to provide novel natural product from the wealth of environmental micro-bial diversity and is a potential important new drug for drug discovery. Sacred groves provide a good deal of ecological and genetic services by protecting and conserving the primitive cultivators and wild flora and fauna. Besides these, sacred groves play an important role in maintaining the micro-climate of the region. Conservation of groves located in different ecological units helps in the conserved water, soil and nutrient, and facilitates the regeneration microbial species in terms of growth and survival in the particular habitat. Regeneration is a key process for the existence of species in the community. Sacred groves of India are forest fragments of varying sizes, which are communally protected and which usually have a significant religious connotation for the protecting community.

31 ref

013514   Kumar S;Singh R B;Singh R N (Plant Pathology Dep, Narendra Deva Agriculture and Technology Univ, Kumarganj, Faizabad-224 229) : Fungicides and genotypes for the management of foliar diseases of rapeseed-mustard. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtII), 189-93.

Field experiments were conducted during 2003-04 and 2004-05 crop seasons to identify fungicide doses to be applied economically in combination with seed treatment with Apron 35 SD @ 6 g/kg, and resistant genotypes for the management of Alternaria blight caused by Alternaria brassicae (Berk.) Sacc. and A. brassicicola (Schwein) Wiltshire, downy mildew caused by Peronospora parasitica (Pers. ex Fr.) Fr. and white rust caused by Albugo Candida (Pers. ex Lev.) Kuntze in rapeseed-mustard. Three foliar sprays of iprobcnphos 48 EC 0.10%, with 32.70% and 36.73% foliar blight, 34.86% and 40.70% pod blight and 24.26% and 29.71% white rust intensity during first and second years, respectively, resulted in highest disease reduction. The treatment also resulted in highest 1000 seed weight of 5.06 and 5.00g and yield of 1679.99 and 1613.33 kg/ha, in respective years. It avoided maximum yield loss of 37.18%. But propiconazole 25 EC 0.05% also sprayed thrice, with the benefit: cost ratio of 3.92 proved most economical. Genotypes DLSC 03 and Bio 772 proved resistant against Alternaria blight and downy mildew, HC 9605, TKG 16, EC 339000 and GSL 1 against downy mildew and white rust and EC 399301, ORT (M) 6-2 and TKG 24 against all the three diseases. One, 10 and 23 genotypes proved resistant against Alternaria blight, downy mildew and white rust respectively, alone.

2 tables, 13 ref

013513   Khurana J P;Chatterjee M;Sharma P;Dibyendu Kumar (Plant Molecular Biology Dep, Delhi Univ, South Campus, New Delhi-110 021) : Blue light sensing cryptochromes: Structure-function perspective and their genetic manipulation in plants. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtII), 81-103.

Cryptochromes are the blue/UV-A light absorbing sensory photoreceptors which are present universally. They control many diverse photomorphogenic responses including hypocotyl elongation, cotyledon expansion, anthocyanin accumulation, control of flowering time and changes in gene expression. Cryptochromes resemble blue light activated DNA photolyases particularly in their site for the binding of the blue and UV-A light absorbing chromophores, FAD and pterin. They exist as a small family in all plants examined and are present in all the tissues and organs. In addition to photoactivation, light also differentially affects the levels of the transcript and/or protein in CRY1 and CRY2, the two Cryptochromes characterized in details. There has been some advancement in understanding the primary photochemical events that take place upon photoexcitation of Cryptochromes by blue light. In recent years, the molecular genetic studies on Arabidopsis mutants, the yeast two-hybrid analysis (for protein-protein interaction) and microarray technology have greatly contributed to the identification of novel light signalling components and their hierarchical structure and ascribing them specific (or redundant) roles. Cryptochromes are also responsible for entraining the biological clock in all living organisms examined, with a few exceptions. Cryptochromes have thus attracted attention of global scientific community. This article summarizes the recent advances in the area of cryptochrome biology, with emphasis on its mode of action and the identification of the signaling components involved. Some examples are also given to demonstrate if Cryptochromes and their downstream signaling components can be exploited as tools for genetically modifying agronomically important traits and altering plant architecture.

4 illus, 214 ref

013512   Khanna V;Yadav I (Botany Dep, Government College, Ajmer, Rajasthan) : Planktonic diversity in the holy lake of Pushkar, Ajmer. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2009, 8(2), 339-42.

Planktonic diversity in the holy lake of Pushkar was studied from January 2007 to September 2007. In all 48 genera of phytoplankton and 16 genera of zooplankton were identified. Maximum planktonic density corresponded with summer season, which declined with onset of monsoon. The planktonic diversity along with abundance of cyanophycean and chlorophycean phy1oplanktons and the rotifers, copepods and cladocerans indicates the moderately polluted nature of the lake.

4 tables, 15 ref

013511   Kartihiga K;Sivakumar T (Biochemistry Dep, King Nandhivarman College, Thellar-604 406, Email: karthiga_biochem@yahoo.co.in) : Antibacterial activity of methanolic exract of basidiomycetes. Asian J Chem 2010, 22(2), 1637-8.

The antibacterial properties of Lentinus sp., Pleurotus aureovi/losus and Schizophyllum commune were investigated against bacterial strains namely Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Salmonella abonv. Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus. The methanolic extracts of these three mushrooms showed better antibacterial activity against 5. aureus and B. cereus. In contrast, the antibacterial activity of P. aureovillosus was reported to be positive for the both Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria.

1 table, 8 ref

013510   Kakati B T;Kakati L N;Ahmed S U (Zoology Dep, Nagaland Univ, Lumami, Nagaland) : Production and cocoon parameters of Antheraea assamensis on Litsea citrata blume-a host plant prevalent in Nagaland, India. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(1), 39-44.

Rearing of Antheraea assamensis Heifer (Muga) on Persea bombycina King (Som) and Litsea polyan-tha Blume (Soalu), the two primary host plants, is prerogative of Assam for commercial production of golden yellow Muga silk. The larvae of A.assamensis also feed on Litsea citrata Blume, (Mejankari), the important secondary food plant and produce a kind of silk known as Mejankari silk, which is admired for its durability, luster and creamy white shade. Although mejankari host plant is becoming rare in Assam due to shrinkage of muga food plant area, it is still naturally grown abundantly in the neighboring hilly state of Nagaland, which lies between 25°26'-27°40' N latitude and 95°20'-27°15' E longitude at varying altitude from 145 m to 3841 m above mean sea level. The present study is conducted in Nagaland with an attempt to revitalize the now extinct royal mejankai silk, the culture of which has gone oblivion with no record of commercial rearing for at least 100 years. Rearing of A.assamensis for two consecutive years (six seasons) on P.bombycina and L.citrata reveals that muga silk worm takes 62.5±5.9 days to complete its life cycle on P. bombycina, whereas on L.citrata it takes 73.3±6.78 days in different seasons. Certain important production parameters viz. fecundity, hatching %, effective rate of rearing (ERR) and Cocoon:dfl ratio in L.citrata ranges from 171.50+9.63 to 198.33±8.64, 60.12±2.66 to 71.25±1.71, 40.77+1.02 to 57.37±1.26 and 53±1.89 to 70±4.56 respectively in different seasons. The dimensions of creamy white cocoon were 6.55±0.11 cm in male and 9.43±0.14 cm in female with an average weight of 4.57+0.15 to 5.57±0.24 gm respectively when fed on the leaves ofLcitrata. The important characteristics like silk ratio (%), filament length (cm), filament denier and raw silk recovery (%) of mejankari fed cocoons are comparable with that of P.bombycina. The authors emphasize on conservation of naturally grown plantation of L.citrata and its propagation on scientific lines for commercial utilization to create a new horizon for muga silk industry.

3 illus, 5 tables, 19 ref

013509   Joshi V K;Sharma S;John S;Lal Kaushal B B; Rana N (Post Harvest Technology Dep, College of Horticulture, Horticulture and Forestry Univ, Nauni, Solan) : Preparation of antioxidant rich apple and strawberry wines. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIV), 415-20.

Apple and strawberry are the major temperate fruits of the world, but during the glut season poor postharvest infrastructure results in huge loss of the crop. Apple wines prepared by adding different spices/herbs extract (ginger, garlic, mentha and hops) along with different sugar sources contributed phenols, quercitin, tannic acid, caffeic acid, catechin and gallic acid. Thus, addition of herb extracts and aonla had-certainly improved the antioxidant property of wine. In strawberry wine the method of vinification influenced the phenolic content of wine, which ranged between 126.8 to 144.4 mg/l. The wines prepared by thermovinification had the maximum phenolic content as compared with wines prepared by other methods. Different phenolic compounds identified by TLC in wines from all the strawberry cultivars were catechin, epicatechin, quercitin and ellagie acid. Further, the presence of various phenolic components increased the medicinal properties of the wine.

4 tables, 19 ref

013508   Jain R;Sharma G D;Misra N (Microbiology Dep, Boston College for Professional Studies, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh) : Applicability of semi nested multiplex PCR for diagnosis and differentiation of falciparum and vivax malaria in small clinical laboratory. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 133-6.

A semi-nested, multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based on the amplification of the sequences of 16S small subunit ribosomal RNA (ssrRNA) gene given by Rubio et al., 1999 was tested on 105 blood samples collected from various small clinical laboratories of Gwalior, to check its possible applicability for diagnosis. The method uses a primary PCR amplification reaction with a set of primers (universal Plasmodium primer and a reverse primer) specific for the genus Plasmodium. The primary reaction is followed by a second amplification which is carried out with the same Plasmodium genus-specific forward primer and two specific reverse primers for P. vivax and P. falciparum (a semi-nested multiplex PCR). In first amplification reaction, the product of 783bp is produced. This is a genus Plasmodium specific and hence helps in diagnosis of malaria irrespective of its causative species (P.vivax or P.falciparum). In the second amplification, products of 499bp and 395bp indicate malaria due to P.vivax and P.falciparum respectively. Out of 105 blood samples, as per microscopic observations made using thin and/or thick smears by local pathology labs, 46 samples were positive for P.vivax and 10 were positive for P.falciparum. Rest of the 49 samples were malaria negative (29 of fever cases and 20 of apparently healthy individuals). In the semi-nested multiplex PCR, out of 46 samples positive for P.vivax by routine microscopy, 44 samples were positive for Vivax malaria and 02 for Falciparum malaria. However, out of 10 microscopically Fakiparum positive, two produced amplification of both 499bp and 395bp and others only of 395bp, this indicating two patients were suffering from mixed infections due to P.vivax and P.falciparum while others only with Falciparum malaria. Out of forty nine microscopically malaria negative samples 48 remained negative while one turned to be positive for P.vivax in PCR. This semi-nested multiplex PCR was found to be more sensitive and specific than the traditional thick-thin smear method. This method can be of great importance in diagnosis of mixed infections due to P.vivax and P.falciparum and in cases of low paracetimea.

1 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

013507   Imran M;Bagde U S;Varma A (Life Sciences Dep, Mumbai Univ, Vidyanagari, Santacruz (E), Mumbai) : Effect of aristolochic acid on macromolecular synthesis of Morganella morganii. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(1), 25-9.

The effect of Aristolochic acid on the growth of Morganella morganii was determined with respect to the protein, DNA and RNA content of the cell. Aristolochic acid affected protein, DNA and RNA synthesis of Morganella morganii. It was observed that, with increasing Aristolochic acid concentration there was decrease in growth, protein, DNA and RNA content of the cells of Morganella morganii. Activity of dehydrogenase enzymes of TCA cycle was also affected. MIC concentration of 200 μg/ml of Aristolochic acid completely inhibited the growth, protein, DNA and RNA synthesis. 29,55 and 16 percent aristolochic acid got localized in cell wall, cell membrane and cytoplasm respectively. As aristolochic acid inhibited activity of dehydrogenases, cell was unable to oxidize substrate, which resulted in limiting supply of energy rich compounds ATP, thereby affecting synthesis of macromolecules and subsequently growth and multiplication of cells got ceased.

4 illus, 3 tables, 33 ref

013506   Hasin F;Islam M (Life Sciences Dep, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh-786 004) : Study on the occurrence of certain microfungi of Dehing-Patkai wild life sanctuary, Assam. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2009, 32(7-8), 219-222.

A brief study on microfungi occurring in dry and wet seasons of 2007 and 2008 in certain sites of Dehing-Patkai wild life sanctuary, Assam, has been made. All total 38 spedes of microfungi are isolated, out of which 6 Phycomycetous, I Ascomycetous and the rest 31 are Deuteromycetous. Among all the species Penicillium and Aspergillus were found to be dominant. It is also revealed that the population of fungi in wet season is found to be higher than that of the dry season.

^ssc1 table, 7 ref

013505   Hamde V S;Kolpe C K (Microbiology Dep, Yogeshwari Mahavidyalaya, Ambajogai, Maharashtra) : Metabolism of acetonitrile by Arthrobacter sps. YM-5. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(1), 85-8.

A bacterial strain YM-5, able to use acetonitrile as sole source of nitrogen was isolated from soil. It was identified as Arthrobacter species. It also utilizes acrylonitrile as source of nitrogen. Acetonitrile utilization activity increased in presence of glucose and peptone. The optimum temperature for growth and nitrile utilization activity was 30° C. Arthrobacter sp. metabolizes acetonitrile to acetic acid and ammonia. Nitrilases were formed to be responsible for this bioconversion. Cell free extract obtained from Arthrobacter sp. YM-5 showed nitrilase activity.

1 illus, 7 tables, 13 ref

013504   Gutte S L;Hamde V S (Microbiology Dep, Mrs. Kesharbai Sonajirao Kshisagar College, Beed, Maharashtra) : Bio-remediation of chrysene by Achromobacter insolitus isolated from oil contaminted soil. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 171-4.

Sixteen polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH_s) including chrysene are declared as priority pollutants by the United State environmental protection agency. Chrysene is present as natural constituent in oils and possesses mutagenic, teratogenic and carcinogenic effects on humans. Hence, the bioremediation of chrysene was carried out. Twenty one bacterial isolates capable of utilizing chrysene as a sole source of carbon and energy for growth were isolated from different oil contaminated soil from Beed, by enrichment culture technique. Degradation efficiency was determined by the rapidity to form clear zone around colonies, when spread with chrysene solutions and from the growth in Basal salt medium containing 0.05% (w/v) of chrysene. One bacterial isolate shows maximum diameter of zone of clearance on R₂A agar sprayed with chrysene by spray plate technique. The efficiency to degrade chrysene (50.68%) was evaluated by Spectrophotometer in terms of absorbance at 600 nm in 15 days and having optimal temperature 28°c and pH 7.5 for growth. The most efficient strain in terms of rapidity to degrade chrysene was identified as AchromobactefTnsolitus by 16s rRNA. This study indicated the potential of isolated Achromobacter insolitus as chrysene degrader and their use in bioremediation process involving petrochemical products.

2 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

013503   Gandhi G;Kaur A;Kaur B;Kaur R;Kaur W;Sharma P (Human Genetics Dep, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar-143 005, Email: Gandhig07@yotmail.com) : Clastogenic/aneugenic damage in human monitoring studies and in diseased individuals. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(2), 103-6.

The exfoliated micronucleus test (MNT) has found favour for genotoxicity assessment because it is a cost-effective, non-invasive method and scoring of MN as endpoints can detect endogenous, lifestyle, occupational and environmental exposures to genotoxins. This assay has been used to quantify chromosomal breakage occurring in the human oral cavity, esophagus, cervix, lung. nasal cavity and urinary bladder. A significantly elevated frequency of cells with micronuclei was observed in cancer patients (0.359±0.058) as compared to controls (0.058±0.066). The MNT in exfoliated urothelial cells also revealed statistically significant increase in MN frequency (0.438±0,009 in females and 0.507±0.034 in males) in a segment of village population using ground water. Epithelial scrapes of the cervix from patients with cervix cancer and without the diseased condition revealed highly significant differences (0.314±0.028 and 0.034±0.009. respectively) for percent frequency of MNd cells.

27 ref

013502   Foroughbakhch R;Cespedes-Cabriales A E;Maiti R K;Alvarado-Vazquez M A;Avila M L C;Hernandez Pinero J (Facultad de Ciencias Biologicas, , UANI, A P F-2, 66451, San Nicolas de los Garza, N L Mexico, Email: rahim.f@gmail.com) : Ecological aspects of mangroves and their potential as phytoremediation in the gulf of Mexico. Crop Res 2008, 35(3), 289-94.

The region of influence of the basin of the Panuco river, that includes the urban zone of the city of Tampico, Tamaulipas, Mexico and the north of Veracruz state, contains an elevated level of water pollution, owing to the discharges of urban and agro-industrial water, in addition to the effects of the biomagnification of toxic compounds such as the heavy metals accumulated greatly in lagoons and in trophic chains in this region. The purpose of the present research was to determine the decontamination capacity of the mangroves species. The study areas include the lagoons San Andres, Carpintero, La Costa, Garrapatas and Pueblo Viejo. The mangrove species dynamics and indices such as of Shannon's diversity, Sorensen's affinity, forestry production, exploitation and the content of heavy metals were determined at each site. The dominant species observed were Rhizophora mangle (3-13 m), Laguncularia racemosa (6-8 m), Avicenia germinans (6-13 m) and Conocarpus erectus (<62>2 m). From north to the south, the dominance changed from A. germinans to L. racemosa. This last specie was the most exploited, with the highest dominance and density, with an importance value of 71.2%; the next species was R. mangle with 66.6%. The heavy metals of the sediments were Cd (2.82), Pb (28.57) and Cr (40.27 ppm). The lead content in leaves and branches (dry basis) of L. racemosa was 4.96 (40.27 ppm). The lead content in leaves and branches (dry basis) of L. racemosa was 4.96 and 2.26ppm, respectively. The contaminants originated from the discharges of industrial water which are fixed in the woody portions.

8 tables, 10 ref

013501   Dubey N K;Shukla R;Ashok Kumar;Prasad C S (Botany Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005) : Ethnobotany: problems and prospects in Indian context. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIV), 346-9.

Vast ethnobotanical knowledge exists in India from ancient times. Many plant species have been used traditionally by the ethnic groups of the country. Different aspects regarding potential application of the ethnobotanical information have been discussed in the article.

16 ref

013500   De S;Sanyal P K;Sarkar A K;Patel N K;Pal S; Mandal S C (Parasitology Dep, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Indira Gandhi Kris, Anjora, Durg-491 001, Email: sanyalpk@rediffmail.com) : Effect of heavy metals and carbendazim on the in vitro growth of Paecilomyces lilacinus (Thom.) samson and Verticillium chlamydosporium Goddard. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIV), 393-8.

In vitro growth profiles of Paecilomyces lilacinus and Verticillium chlamydosporium were monitored in corn meal agar plates mixed with various concentrations of heavy metal salts, viz., sodium arsenate, lead nitrate, mercuric chloride, copper sulphate and a fungicide carbendazim. The colony diameter of P. lilacinus and V. chlamydosporium revealed no statistically significant differences at 100-1000 μM concentrations of mercuric chloride, sodium arsenate and copper sulphate. While no statistically significant differences in colony diameters of P. lilacinus were observed at 100-1000 μM concentrations of lead nitrate, significantly increased colony diameters were recorded during 52-184 h of incubation at all concentrations (100 and 1000 μM) of lead nitrate compared to controls. Significant inhibition in colony diameters of P. lilacinus and V. chlamydosporium was observed at all concentrations (0.5-4.5 ppm) of carbendazim compared to controls.

2 tables, 16 ref

013499   Ciftci H;Ozkaya A;Cevrimli B S;Bakoglu A (Chemistry Dep, Faculty of Science and Art. Ahi Evran Univ, Kirsehir, Turkey, Email: harunciftci@yahoo.com) : Levels of fat-soluble vitamins in some foods. Asian J Chem 2010, 22(2), 1251-1256.

The levels of vitamins in nine food of winter season which are grown in Turkey were determined. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used in this work. Eight vitamins were detected in the foods. The contents of vitamins were determined as β-carolene, 38.4-144.5; δ-tocopherol, 0.63-6.15; y-tocopherol, 0.7-936.2; α-tocopherol, 0.7-72.8: α-tocopherol acetate, 3.7-113.1: vitamin D₂, 5.2-47.8; vitamin D₃, 36.4-642.2 and vitamin K_{1, 12.6-67.4 μg g^-1. For the simultaneous determination of all the vitamins, the mixture of acetonitrile/methanol (3/1, v/v) was used as the mobile phase. Detection was performed at 202 nm for vitamins. The results showed that vitamin D3 level is high for corn and y-tocopherol is rich in bulgur.}