012359   Valarmathi V;Asokan S (Zoology Dep, A.D.M. College, Nagapattinam-611 001) : Age and growth studies on land snail Cryptozona bistrialis (Beck 1837) in and around Nagapattinam. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(2), 47-53.

Age and growth of the land snail Cryptozona bistrialis were studied by employing, Petersen's length frequency distribution method, Probability plot method, Von Bertalanffy's growth equation, Month & modes curve and Ford-Walford graph method. The results of the above methods are almost similar. They indicate that the longevity of the snail is more than three years and the maximum length attainable by the snail is around 42.50 mm.

1 table, 5 illus, 23 ref

012358   Uma S;Ramanathan N (Microbiology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002, Email: umarajus@yahoo.co.in) : Development of the liquid formulations of pseudomonas fluorescens and their effect on the growth and yield of bhendi (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) cv prabhanikranti. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(1), 55-62.

Pseudomonas fluorescens is well known for its plant-growth-promoting character. Carrier-based bio-inoculants generally suffer from shorter shelf life, poor quality, high contamination and low field performance. Therefore it is desirable that new inoculant formulations be developed. Liquid inoculants are a significant line of research. Liquid Bioinoculants consistently provide higher microbial populations with an extended shelf-life. In the present study the liquid formulations of Pseudomonas fluorescens amended with various osmoprotectants such as trehalose (10 mM), polyvinylpyrrolidone lidone (2%) glycerol (10 mM) added separately to king's 'B' broth was developed and it was found that the liquid formulation of Pseudomonas fluorescens inoculants prepared using 10 mM trehalose, recorded a larger population compared to other chemical amendments. It could be stored without losing viability under ambient temperature for a period of six months-i.e., longer when compared to carrier-based inoculants. The trehalose supplemented liquid formulation of Pseudomonas fluorescens inoculants was used in Bhendi cv Prabhanikranti in pot culture. The maximum population (8.82 X 10⁸ cfu g^-1 of rhizosphere soil) was recorded in the trehalose supplemented liquid formulation of Pseudomonas with rice gruel at 60 days after sowing. The plant height (12%), number of fruits per plant (26%), and fruit yield (38%) in bhendi were found more copious in liquid formulation than among other groups treated with carrier-based inoculants for the control (uninoculated) group.

4 tables, 7 ref

012357   Ullah N;Kapoor S;Verma A;Gautam R K (Zoology Dep, Agra College, Agra, Uttar Pradesh) : Screening of indiginous plants for their pesticidal properties against some crop pests. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(2), 225-7.

According to present investigation, for the determination of LC₅₀ values of alcoholic and acetonic leaf extract of A.maxican, P.hysterophorus and N.plumbaginifolia, different concentration of these plant extracts have been treated against the 3rd instar larva of Trichoplusia ni and larva of Agrotis ypsilone, nymph of Lipaphis erysimi and Bagarada cruciferanum and 3rd instar larva of Heliothis drmigera. It was evident that on the basis of LC₅₀ values, the relative resistance of insect pests, against acetone extract of A.maxicana is maximum in Agrotis ypsilone (2.331) and minimum in Trichoplusia ni (1.180), in comparison to Lipaphis erysimi. Also, it is maximum in B.cruciferanum (1.862) and minimum in Trichoplusia ni (1.352) in alcoholic leaf extract of A.maxicana. Similarly, acetone and alcoholic leaf extract of Parthenium hysterophorus showed maximum relative resistance in B.cruciferanum (2.357 and 2.295) respectively and minimum in Trichoplusia ni (0.575 and 0.986) respectively. However, the relative resistance is maximum in Hettothis armigera (3.359 acetone, 2.947 alchoholic) and minimum in Trichoplusia ni (0.448 in acetone and 0.371 alcoholic) leaf extract of N.plumbaginifolia. It can be suggested that leaf extract of A.maxicana, P.hysterophorus and N.plumtaginifolia can be used in place of the highly toxic synthetic pesticides because of its safety to beneficial insects (pollinators) and its lower cost. These treatment of plants extracts give higher yield and possed less hazards to natural enemies and therefore indicated their suitability for inclusion in integrated pest management.

2 illus, 2 tables, 6 ref

012356   Sudha S S;Parvathy A (Microbiology Dep, Dr. N. G. P. College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore-646 048, Email: sudhakrish_1972@yahoo.com) : Screening for L-asparaginase producing microorganisms from beach-soil. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(1), 50-4.

Beach-soil samples from Kanyakumari were collected and the fungal and bacterial strains therein were isolated using PDA and nutrient agar medium respectively. A total of 20 fungal strains and 20 bacterial strains were isolated and out of these 17 fungi and 4 bacterial strains were found to produce L-asparaginase enzyme. L-asparaginase enzyme production was detected by the colour change (yellow to pink) in the medium used for screening the enzyme producers. Modified Czapek dox and modified M9 medium were used for the screening of L-asparaginase producing fungi and bacteria respectively. Thus the present work has been undertaken to screen bacterial and fungal strains from beach-soil environment for the production of L-asparaginase enzyme.

4 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

012355   Sonia K;bai S A (NO, Asan Memorial College of Arts & Science, Velachery-Tambaram Road, Jaladampet, Chennai-600 100, Email: dr_vidyaraj@yahoo.co.in) : Polyethylene glycol coated gelatin microspheres and their release of ciprofloxacin. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(1), 30-9.

Gelatin microspheres were prepared by emulsification (using different surfactants) and cross linking by glutaraldehyde. The stability of these gelatin microspheres were improved by coating with poly ethylene glycol (PEG). The microspheres were characterized for entrapment efficiency of ciprofloxacin, percentage of swelling and leakage properties using Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FT - IR), Fourier transform nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (FT - NMR) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and for shelf life improvement property through emulsification using external additives like PEG.

19 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

012354   Shrivastava S M;Rai D;Rishi P;Pandey P K (NO, Venus Medicine Research Centre, Hill Top Industrial Estate, Bhatoli Kalan, Baddi, Himanchal Pradesh) : Comparative microbial efficacy of a fixed dose combination of pantoprazole and clatithromycin with pantoprazole and clarithromycin alone for Helicobacter pylori. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(2), 241-8.

The investigation was carried out to study the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and Time kill curve of pantoprazole (P), a proton pump inhibitor, a substituted benzimidazole : viz, 5-difluoromethoxybenzimidazole-2-yl-3,4-dimethoxy-2-pyridylmethyl sulphoxide. It is used for inhibition of gastric acid secretion. Clarithromycin (C) is a macrolide antibiotic with better broad spectrum activity against H.pylori infections, a gram negative organism, pantoprazole and Clarithromycin (PC) a fixed dose combination (FDC) has a wide range of susceptibility to any of these drugs individually. Chemical vector mediated compatibility (CMVC) was obtained at the R&D center for PC and FDC of P and C in combination of 40 mg. : 500 mg. ratio. The MIC was determined by broth micro dilution method as per guidelines of National committee for clinical laboratory standards (NCCLS). This study was aimed at evaluating microbial efficacy of PC in comparison with pantoprazole and Clarithromycin alone. Efficacy was evaluated on the basis of MIC and time kill curve analysis in H.pylori (HP-B₁, HP-B₂, HP-B₃ and HP-B₄). In case of HP-B₂, HP-B₂, HP-B₃ and HP-B₄, MIC were found to be 0.0625 mg/l., 0.125 mg/1., 0.0625 mg/l. and 0.0625 mg/l. for PC respectively. In pantoprazole alone the MIC was found to be 32 mg/l., 64 mg/K, 32mg/l. and 32mg/l. respectively. For Clarithromycin alone, these values were 0.125 mg/l., 0.25 mg/l., 0.25mg/l. and 0.25mg/l. respectively. In all organisms under study, time-kill curve analysis demonstrated bacterial maximum killing at 4 hours. In conclusion, under in vitro analysis PC was found to have more bacterial inhibiting properties than pantoprazole and Clarithromycin alone in vitro analysis.

4 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

012353   Senthil Kumar R;Panneerselvam A;Thajuddin N; Muthu R S (Microbiology Dep, J.J. College of Arts and Science, Pudukkottai-622 422, Email: drmicrsk@yahoomail.com) : Potential lipase producing Bacillus cereus from stored food cereals. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(1), 46-9.

A bacterial member, Bacillus cereus isolated from stored food cereals was found to be capable of producing extacellular lipase. Several factors affecting the activity of lipase were investigated. The maximum lipase activity was achieved at 35° C, pH 8.0 in 72 hour's incubation. The enzyme activity was enhanced by the addition of 20ml of olive oil that was found to be the optimum substrate concentration in the growth medium.

4 illus, 13 ref

012352   Santhi R;Annapoorani S (Biochemistry Dep, Vivekanandha College of Arts and Sciences for Women, Elayampalayam, Tiruchengode-637 205, Email: santhiakash@yahoo.com) : Efficacy of wound healing activity of Terminalia catappa in Swiss albino mice. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(2), 36-41.

Study was conducted to evaluate the wound healing activity of Terminalia catappa on Swiss albino mice using the excision wound model. There was a significant increase in wound closure rate, total collagen content, and hexosamine content in the granuloma tissues of the Terminalia catappa-treated group when compared to the control and commercial ointment-treated groups. From the results, it may be concluded that Terminalia catappa has greater wound healing capacity than commercial Povdine-Iodine ointment.

1 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

012351   Sankari A;Thiyagesan K (Zoology and Wildife Biology Dep, A.V.C. College, Mannampandal-609 305, Email: sankarizoology@gmail.com) : Population and predatory potency of web-building spiders in tapioca (Manihot utilissima) crop-fields. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(2), 3-9.

The population and predatory potency of web-building spiders in a Tapioca (Manihot utilissima) crop field were studied in the Dharrnapuram Village of Nagagattmum District in Tamil Nadu. Six species of web building spiders belonging to five families were recorded. Argiopidae was the predominant family while the most abundant species was Neoscona theisi in the field and Hippasa pantherina, in the field bunds. Three types of webs viz-, orb, cone and mesh web were also recorded and the orb web was found more frequently than the others. Regarding predatory potency, four orders of insects; viz., Diptera, Orthoptera, Hemiptera, Lepidoptera were caught by the spiders in the field and each species of spider fed on a different composition of prey, in different proportions. The observed differences reflect in part, the diverse range of life styles and foraging modes exhibited by the spider groups.

1 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

012350   Roopa G R;Jalali S K;Nagaraja H;Lalitha Y (NO, Project Directorate of Biological Control, Post Bag No. 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Hebbal, Bellary Road, Bangalore-560 024, Email: rpvenu@yahoo.co.in) : Comparision of biological parameters among arrhenotokous and thelytokous froms of Trichogramma (Hymenoptera: trichogrammatidae). Pest Mgmt Hort Ecosyst 2009, 15(1), 28-32.

Studies were carried out to assess biological attributes of arrhenotokous (sexual) and thelytokous (asexual) forms of Trichogramma species. Percent parasitization in arrhenotokous species varied from 38.10-59.53, compared to 32.68-55.62% in thelytokous species. Mean longevity of arrhenotokous forms was 6.64 days compared to 9.45 days in thelytokous species. Developmental period was shorter in thelytokous forms, whereas mean fecundity was higher in arrhenotokous species. The implication of field use of both forms in biological control of lepidopteran pests on vegetable crop like tomato and cabbage is discussed in this paper.

3 tables, 9 ref

012349   Ravichandran S;Rameshkumar G;Velankanni S; Kaliyavarathan G (Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Annamalai univ, Parangipettai-608 502, Email: sravicas@gmail.com) : Variation in fatty acid composition of the crab Portunus sanguinolentus in different development stages. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2009, 32(3-4), 123-8.

Crab meat contains small amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids, polyunsaturated fats that is essential for healthy functioning of the heart. In the study fatty acids compositions of the edible crab Portunus sanguinolentus was studied. The present results have shown that breast meat and claw meat had higher amounts of n3 fatty acids and lower amounts of n6 fatty acids than the hepatopancreas. The variation in the n3 fatty acid in different parts of the crab may be explained by different accumulation levels in different tissues. An increase in the level of n3 fatty acids in the claw and breast meat was also effective in reducing the level of saturated fatty acids in the tissues of crabs. The composition of 12 fatty acids in the ovaries of different stages of immature, mature and spawning crabs was significantly different except that of C16:l and C20:l. Ovaries of immature, mature, and spawning crabs had 12 fatty acids with C20:5 missing. From immature to mature, the content of saturated fatty acid in the ovaries of P. sanguinolentus decreased from 27.47% to 18.95% and the content of monounsaturated fatty acids and ω3/ω6 slightly decreased without significant change. The content of polyunsaturated fatty acids increased from 14.98% to 25.71%. The results suggest that claw and breast meat of the P. sanguinolentus crab are beneficial to human health.

^ssc2 tables, 30 ref

012348   Rai S;Vyas M;Padhye S;Parihar P;Narula N (Biotechnology and Microbiology Dep, Mata Gujri Women's College, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh) : In vitro sensitivity of otomycotic agents against antifungals. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(2), 217-19.

In vitro sensitivity methods against various antifungals were performed for otomycotic agents, isolated from 19 patients. The agents were isolated on SDA supplemented with chloramphenicol @ 30μ.g/100 ml. The common fungi isolated were Aspergillus fumigatus, A.flavus, A.niger, Paecttotnyces and Candida albicans. These clinical isolates were subjected to in vitro sensitivity test against synthetic antifungal and natural spices. The in vitro sensitivity method applied was, disc diffusion method. The most effective antifungal was ketoconazole and garlic was the most effective spice amongst the natural products tested.

2 tables, 10 ref

012347   Prasada Rao V;Leelanath T;Nelson R;Sambasiva Rao K R S (Biotechnology Dep, J.J. College of Arts and Sciences, Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu, Email: krssrao@yahoo.com) : Effect of incubation time and substrate feeding onthermostable dextranase production by Bacillus thuringiensis. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(3), 56-65.

The dextranase (1,6-D-glucan-6-glucanohydrolase (EC 3.2.1.11), is an enzyme, which catalyzes hydrolysis of (1,6)-D-glycoside linkages to produce isomalto-oligosaccharides in endo fashion randam sites of dextran. The production and characteristics of thermostable dextranases have been reported by genus Arthrobacter, Pseudomonas, Brevibacterium, Bacillus etc. Because of the increasing importance of glycobiology in biosciences, it is possible to predict that dextran and the enzymes involved in its biosynthesis and hydrolysis will have increasing significance in the future. The present study is aimed at analyzing the various physiochemical factors that influence the production of dextranase by a thermostable organism- B. thuringenesis.

5 illus, 43 ref

012346   Pouranik M;Tripathi M;Padhey S (Zoology Dep, Mata Gujiri Girls College, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh) : Study of onychomycosis, previling fungi and pattern of infection in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(2), 151-3.

A survey was done between February, 2007 to March, 2007 among a farmer group. Total 50 persons were examined out of which 10 cases of of onychomycosis were observed. DLSO type was more common as compare to PSO and WSO. Infection were observed in the middle age group. It was observed that male and female were equally susceptible for the disease. In 8 cases non dermatophytic molds were observed as etiologic agents and in two cases yeasts were observed. Causal organisms which were observed in all the case are as follows. Asprergttlus flavus (2 cases), Alternaria alternata (2 cases). Fusarium sps., (2 cases), Mucor sps. and Rhizopus sps. (1 each), Cladosporium sps. and Curvularia sps. (mixed infection), Torula sps. (1), Candida sps. (1). Inetraction between pathogenic fungi and normal microbiology flora shows that they may be antagonistic or commensal.

1 table, 12 ref

012345   Patil A G;Patil D A;Sharma A J;Chandra N (Botany-Herbal Sciences Dep, Birla College, Kalyan-421 304, Email: as220484@gmail.com) : Comparative in vitro antioxidant activity and PHTLC fingerprint of Averrhoa bilmbi Linn. and Averrhoa carambola Linn. fruit extracts. Asian J expl Sci 2011, 25(1), 93-102.

There is a growing interest in the food industry and in preventive health care for the evaluation and development of natural antioxidants from medicinal plant materials. In the present work, aqueous extracts of Averrhoa bilmbi Linn, and Averrhoa carambola Linn. fruits were screened for their phenolic profiles and antioxidant properties. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was determined by Total Antioxidant Activity (TAA). Ferric Reducing Power (FRP), Nitric oxide radical scavenging activity and Nitro Blue Tetrazolium scavenging activity (NBT). HPTLC fingerprint of methanolic extract of Averrhoa bilmbi Linn. and Averrhoa carambola Linn. with Tannic acid and Ascorbic acid was developed. The results indicate that aqueous extracts of Averrhoa bilmbi Linn. had the highest antioxidant capacity as Ferric Reducing power and Nitric oxide scavenging activity. While aqueous extract of Averrhoa carambola Linn. showed higher percent inhibition than Averrhoa bilmbi Linn. in Nitro Blue Tetrazolium method. The less phenolic contents and antioxidant capacities were observed in Averrhoa carambola Linn as compared to Averrhoa bilmbi Linn. fruits. The results obtained in the present study indicate that aqueous fruit extracts of Averrhoa bilmbi Linn. and Averrhoa carambola Linn. are a potential source of natural antioxidants. Further investigations are needed to verify this antioxidant effect in vivo.

6 illus, 4 tables, 42 ref

012344   Palanisamy M (Microbiology Dep, Naina Mohamed College of Arts and Science, Rajendrapuram-614 624, Email: palanism331@gmail.com) : Age and growth of the Sepiella inermis (gray) from Thondi coast (south east coast of India). Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(3), 10-17.

The age and growth of Sepiella inermis from Thondi Waters are reported here. Its life appears to be more than two years. The length, frequency of growth calculated at the end of third year for male and female was 125.22mm and 126.74mm. This helps in understanding and evaluating the growth rate and variations of the species in a population inhabiting the environment. The age and the corresponding length of animals obtained from the probability plot method was used to construct Von Bertalanffy's equation for growth rate of species for male Lt = 162.2059 [(1 ^-e0.6508) (t + 156.6423)] and Lt = 137.1286 3) (t + 171.54)] for female. The La values obtained were for male 162mm and 138mm for female.

6 illus, 1 tables, 24 ref

012343   Padamwar S B;Dakore H G (Botany Dep, N.S.B. College, Nanded, Maharashtra) : Some cole crops : a source of vitamin C. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(2), 223-4.

Cole crops (cabbage, cauliflower and knolkhol) were cultivated at Nanded under the influence of different organic fertilizers (FYM, vermicompost, biofertilizers) to observe their effect on nutritional value of edible curd of cole crops. After harvesting the curds these were chopped into pieces, dried in oven and ground into fine powder. From this percent dry matter, vitamin C and calcium was estimated.

1 table, 5 ref

012342   Ojeswi B K;Khoobchandani M;Arora J K;Hazra D K;Srivastava M M (Chemistry Dep, Faculty of Science, T.C. College, Dayalbagh, Agra-282 110) : In vitro antibreast cancer efficacy of two indigenous plants on human cancer cell line MCF-7. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2009, 32(3-4), 105-9.

Aerial parts of Thuja occidentalis (Morepankhi) and Cordia dichotoma (Lasora), extracted in various solvents, were explored for their antibreast cancer efficacy against human cell line MCF-7. Except Pt. ether extract of Cordia dichotoma, remaining extracts exhibited significant antibreast cancer activity and need detailed studies.

3 tables, 10 ref

012341   Naz N;Karim N;Singh B K (Zoology Dep, Magadh Univ, Bodh Gaya, Bihar) : Studies on the pest diversity of tobacco plants in Bihar. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(2), 255-9.

1 illus, 7 tables, 15 ref

012340   Muthukkumarasamy S;Udayakumar R;Balasundaram M;Malarvili T;Muruganantham C (Biochemistry Dep, J.J. College of Arts and Science, Pudukkottai-622 422, Email: wavesamy@gmail.com) : Phytochemical and antimicrobial studies of Oldenlandia corymbosa L.. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(2), 42-6.

A dry powder of Oldenlandia corymbosa was extracted with different solvents like diethyl ether, acetone and ethanol using soxhlet apparatus at different temperatures. Greenish black waxy residues were obtained. These residues were used for phytochemical and antibacterial studies. Some selected microorganisms like Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Shigella dysentriae, Bacillus megaterium, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus were used for the study of antimicrobial activity by agar well method. Phytochemical constituents like alkaloids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, glycosides, phytosterols, fixed oil and fats, proteins, phenolic compounds, tannins and saponins of various solvent extracts of O. corymbosa were analyed qualitatively, alkaloids were also identified by the GC-MS technique.

1 illus, 4 tables, 16 ref

012339   Mrudula S;Nidhi Shyam (Microbiology Dep, M.G.R. College, Dr. M.G.R. Nagar, Hosur-635 109, Email: somamrudula@hotmail.com) : Prevalence of dangerous 'O' group among blood donors. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(2), 20-4.

Prospective study on prevalence of dangerous 'O' blood group was done on 200 individuals, who visited the blood bank unit in NIMHANS, Bangalore from December 2008 to February 2009. Serological methods were used to detect the antibody levels in these donors. Out of 200 samples, 63 (31.5%) showed a high antibody-A litre of 1:128 dilution and 10 (5%) showed a high antibody-A titre of 1:256 dilution. The antibody-B titre was found within the limit. Based on the findings of our study, 73 out of 200 samples screened were categorized under dangerous 'O' group.

1 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

012338   Mishra A;Singh R (Botany Dep, M.G.C.G.V. Chitrakoot, Satna Madhya Pradesh) : Ethenomedicinal importance of Parthenium hysterophorus L. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(2), 159-61.

Ptirthenium hysterophorus L. is continuous in discussion form the origin of it, in India and abroad, due to their allelopathic effect on crop production, animal husbandry, human health and biodiversity. Present paper deals with the hidden facts of it regarding medicinal, industrial and other economic uses.

23 ref

012337   Manthirikani S;Sasi A;Jagadesh G;Ramesh N (Microbiology & Biotechnology Dep, J.J. College of Arts and Science, Pudukkottai-622 422, Email: biotechkani2100@gmail.com) : Submerged fermentation of lipase enzyme from Aspergillus fumigatus. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(3), 44-55.

Water samples were collected from five different places in the Muthupettai mangrove along the East cost of Tamil Nadu. Five different fungal species were isolated and identified by using lacto phenol cotton blue staining method. From this, Aspergillus fumigatus was tested in Tribytyrin agar for its lipase enzyme activity. The effects of different carbon, nitrogen and physico-chemical parameters were considered in the production of lipase enzyme. The purity of the lipase enzyme was analyzed by ammonium sulphate precipitation and high performance liquid chromatography. The metal ion compound was identified by using ion exchange chromatography. It was found that the lipase production was higher at pH 6 and 30°C on 7 days of incubation period; the use of agricultural waste materials like Cocos nucifera meal as submerged fermentation mediua for lipase enzyme, revealed a higher enzyme activity of 201.1μg/ml.

6 illus, 5 tables, 25 ref

012336   Manivasagam T;Malarvili T;Kalyani C (Biochemistry and Biotechnology Dep, Faculty of Science, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002, Email: malarvilimail.@yahoo.com) : Protective effect of epigallo catachin gallate against oxidative stress induced by alcohol in experimental rats. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(2), 10-9.

Epigallo Chatachin Gallate (EGCG) is a naturally occurring Polyphenolic compound that exhibits ability for reactive oxygen scavenging, immune modulation, radiation protection and life-prolongation. It is obtained from plants, fruits and vegetables, such as Oliveoil, red wine and tea. The aim of the present work was to examine the antioxidative effect of EGCG on alcohol-induced changes in circulatory antioxidative status and lipid peroxidation levels in a dose-dependent fashion. The in vivo studies with DPPH* and ABTS* + (cation radical) showed that EGCG possesses antioxidant activity. In vivo administration of ethanol (7.9 g/kg bw/day) for 45 days resulted in an increased activity of liver marker enzymes (AST,ALT,ALP and GGT) lipid peroxidation markers (TEARS, Lipid hydroperoxides) in liver with significantly lower activity of SOD,CAT,GPX,GST and non - enzymatic antioxidant (GSH) in liver as compared with those in control rats. Administration of ethanol along with EGCG significantly decreased the activities of liver marker enzymes in serum towards near normal. EGCG at a dose of 150 mg/kg body weight was highly effective. In addition EGCG also significantly reduced the levels of enzymic and non enzymic antioxidants in liver of alcohol-administered rats. Our data suggest that EGCG exerts its protective effect by decreasing the lipid peroxidation and improving antioxidants status, thus proving itself as an effective antioxidant in alcohol-induced oxidative damage in rats.

1 illus, 5 tables, 45 ref

012335   Manivannan N;Daniel T (Biology Dep, Gandhigram Rural Univ, Gandhigram-624 302, Email: manivannan672002@yahoo.co.in) : Evaluation of vermicomposted Tephrosia purpurea and Gliricidia sepium leaf litters. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(2), 54-8.

Earthworm, Eudrilus eugeniae was used for the decomposition of leaf litter viz. Tephrosia purpurea and Gliricidia sepium in combination with cow-dung in 1:1 ratio by dry weight for the production of vermicompost of high quality, based on the OC and NPK values, increased ratio of pH, EC and higher range of microbial-colony-forming units. The study shows that Eudrilus eugeniae could be used to produce richer compost with leaf litters of Tephrosia purpurea and Gliricidia sepium.

4 tables, 20 ref

012334   Kumar C S S;Malla T M;Kulkarni U;Akhter S; Ganesh N (Research Dep, Jawaharlal Nehru Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, Bhopal-462 001) : Amido black 10 B is preferable to Ponceau S stain for staining serum proteins in electrophoretic studies for clinical diagnosis. Ultra Scient phys Sci 2009, 21(1), 105-8.

Differentiation of serum proteins by electrophoresis is important for the diagnosis and prognosis of numerous diseases. Use of serum protein electrophoresis is a common tool in clinical diagnosis to express the various infectious states. Staining of serum proteins in electrophoresis is really an uphill task to define accurate abnormal proteins. Many stains have high sensitivity but it cannot be affordable in common laboratories. Hence, the objective of this comparative study is to establish a standard staining protocol with an appropriate stain with affordable cost and high sensitivity. Amido black is one among the best stains used in older protocols. Due to the influx of new sensitive stains like Ponceau S the use of Amido black has become very less. In our experience, finds Amido black as a better stain in comparison to Ponceau S after many replicates of the experiment.

2 illus, 10 ref

012333   Krishnapriya K;Muthukaruppan S M;Ramanathan N (Microbiology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002, Email: priyastha_jan18@ymail.com) : Comparative study of Helicobacter pylori by various diagenostic test methods. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(3), 28-32.

The major problem with assessment of the diagnostic performance of H. pylori test is the absence of a test determining the definitive disease status (gold standard). As a result inappropriate tests are being used as a reference. Gastric biopsy specimen from 100 acid peptic diseased patients were detected by two methods the invasive methods which includes histological examination, culture examination, Rapid Urease Test (RUT) and the Campylobacter Like Organism (CLO) test and the non-invasive method using the ELLSA test. Totally 68 out of the 100 specimens were found to be positive by both the invasive and non-invasive test methods. In the invasive method 98% positivity was recorded in the culture, followed by 91% in RUT, 82% in histology, 50% in CLO test. The non-invasive ELISA method recorded 66% positive results. Even though the culture examination provided maximum percentage of results, the RUT is considered to be the best due to its rapid diagnosis, easy availability, accuracy, the short time required for the procedure and the low cost.

1 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

012332   Jeewan Kumar R;Vasu Babu M;Ahmad A (Physics Dep, Molecular Biophysics Laboratories, S.K. Univ, Anantapur) : Dielectric properties of mimosoideae woods. Ultra Scient phys Sci 2009, 21(3), 553-8.

Dielectric constant, dielectric loss, electrical conductivity and resistivity of Mimosoideae family trees wood samples were measured at their different physiological conditions such as fresh and oven dried. A significant variation in dielectric parameters is observed with respect to species as well as physiological conditions. This attributes to macro-structure variation in wood of Mimosoideae family trees.

2 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

012331   Jasmine S;George R M;Manisseri M K;Kingsly J (NO, Vizhinjam Research Centre of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institu, P.B. No. 9., Vizhinjam, P.O. Thiruvananthapuram-695 521, Email: jasminevzm@rediffmail.com) : Hard coral diversity along southwest coast of India. J Mar Biol Ass India 2009, 51(2), 189-93.

Patchy growths of hard corals are found to occur off Vizhinjam and Enayam along the southwest coast of India. This study gives the result of survey conducted off Vizhinjam and Enayam for assessment of the coral cover and biodiversity following Line Intercept Transect method. A total of 13 species belonging to six genera of Scleractinians was represented in this study. The most common genus Pocillopora was represented by five species. Relative abundance values were derived for each species and they were assigned the status dominant, abundant, common, uncommon and rare. Pocillopora verucosa and P. meandrina were assigned the status 'dominant' in Vizhinjam and Montipora aequituberculata in Enayam. Pocillopora damicornis belonged,to the category 'abundant' and all the other species were either of 'common' or 'uncommon' status only. Biodiversity indices such as Pielou's Evenness Index; Shannon Diversity Index and Simpson Diversity Index were also determined for each site. The coral fauna in structure and composition was more related to Gulf of Mannar than any other reef.

1 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

012330   Jain S;Mythily S;Ahmed R S;Arora V K;Banerjee B D (Biochemistry and Pathology Dep, Univ College of Medical Sciences & GTB Hospital (Univ of Delhi), Dilshad Garden, Delhi-110 095) : Induction of oxidative stress and histopathological changes by sub-chronic doses of triazophos. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2010, 47(6), 388-92.

The effect triazophos (O₃ O-diethyl O-1-phenyl-1 H-1, 2, 4-triazol-3-yl phosphorothioate), a widely used insecticide was studied on the induction of oxidative stress and histological alterations at sub-chronic doses in male albino rats. Oral administration of triazophos at concentrations of 1.64,3.2 and 8.2 mg/kg body wt for 30 days produced dose as well as time-dependent increase in the lipid peroxidation (determined by malondialdehyde levels) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity in serum with a concomitant decrease in ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) and blood glutathione (GSH) content. Histopathological examination of liver of triazophos-treated rats showed significant and progressive degenerative changes as compared to control, which could be due to induction of oxidative stress. However, no significant histopathological changes were observed in spleen, kidney and brain at either dose of triazophos with respect to control. These results indicated that oral administration of triazophos was associated with enhanced lipid peroxidation and compromised antioxidant defence in rats in dose and time-dependent manner. Thus the present study demonstrated for the first time the role of oxidative stress as the important mechanism involved in the stimulation of hepatic histo-architectural alterations at sub-chronic doses of triazophos in rats.

3 illus, 19 ref

012329   Jain S K (NO, , A-26 Mall Avenue Coloney, Avas Vikas Colony, Lucknow-226 001) : Scholastic genealogies-a useful resource for history of science. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2009, 32(3-4), 65-8.

History of science usually deals with early theories about natural phenomena, universe, discoveries, indigenous technologies, and life and work of pioneers. The mentor-student lineages or 'Guru-Shishya' tradition is known in India. Annotated records of such lineages in modem era are called scholastic or academic genealogies. They include notes on titles of doctoral theses, year of award, institution, and location of materials studied or used by the scholar inspired and guided by the mentor, It is discussed that such genealogies of peers and notable researchers in various branches of science are valuable records for history of science. Some examples up to four generations are given from plant sciences.

4 ref

012328   Hasan M;Tripathi S;Mahdi A A;Mitra K;Negi M P S (Anatomy Dep, INSA Honarary Scientist, CSM Medical Univ, Lucknow-226 003, Email: dramahdihasan@rediffmai.com) : Lipofuscin, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in discrete regins of the aged rat brain. Proc Indian Natn Sci Acad 2009, 75(4), 173-81.

The study was designed to assess whether a correlation exists between the degree of lipofuscin accumulation in various regions of the rat brain and the rate of lipid peroxidation/antioxidant status. Twenty four male Wistar rats were divided into two age groups (6m: n=12; 24 m: n=12). For electron microscopy, transcardiac perfusion fixation was done and pieces of prefrontal cortex and hippocampus dissected and processed by standard electron microscopy techniques. For biochemical assays (lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status), brain regions viz. hippocampus hypothalamus, rest of cerebrum, cerebellum and brain stem were dissected after sacrificing rats by an overdose of sodium pentobarbitone. Protein content, protein carbonyl, lipid peroxide, conjugated dienes, SOD, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase were estimated by standard methods. Statistical analysis of the results was accomplished by Student's 't' test, Pearson correlation and hierarchical clustering. Oxidative stress markers (LPO, CD, LOOH, LIF and PC) in 5 different brain regions were significantly increased while the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx and GR) in the same brain regions were significantly depleted. Reduced and oxidized glutathione ratio showed remarkable depletion in the old group in comparison with the same brain regions of young rats. Our results suggest that increment of the rate of lipid peroxidation is well correlated with the decline in the antioxidant status of the various brain regions. The morphological indicator of lipid peroxidation, neuronal lipofuscin, formed consequent to mitochondrial residues remaining after lysosomal degradation, also exhibits regional heterogeneity and linear increment with age.

2 illus, 4 tables, 32 ref

012327   Ghosh R;Das L;Chakma J;Debbarma A (Pharmacology Dep, Tripura Medical College and Dr B.R. Ambedker Memorial Techning Hospita, Hapania, Agartala-799 014) : Hepatoprotective activity of leaf extracts of Phyllanthus acidus Linn. in carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotocxic model in albino rats. Indian med Gaz 2011, 145(1), 31-4.

Studies the effect of aqueous leaf extract of Phyllanthus acinus Linn. (PA) in carbon tetrachloride (CC1₄) induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats. Twenty four healthy albino rats of either sex weighing 100 -125gm were utilized for the study. They were randomized into 4 groups (Normal, Control, Standard and Test) of 6 animals in each group. Hepatic injury was induced in all groups (except normal group) by i.p. injection of 1:1 v/v CC1₄ in olive oil (1 ml/kg body weight) for 7 days simultaneously with control, standard and test drugs. The administration of CC1₄ to the animals resulted in a marked increase in hepatic markers. Animals treated with PA exhibited a significant decrease in the hepatic markers in comparison to the control group. The study shows that the aqueous leaf extracts of Phyllanthus acidus Linn, has significant hepatoprotective activity in CC1₄ induced hepatotoxic model in albino rats.

2 illus, 1 tables, 12 ref

012326   Dhagat M;Dhagat S (Botany Dep, Mata Gujri Women's College, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh) : Estimation of mycoflora from sewage water. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(2), 173-6.

Microorganisms are very diverse; they include bacteria, fungi, archaea and protests. All of them depend on environment for food, water and air. Quantitative water supply is essential for small as well as big cities and towns. Whenever, there is water supply there should be a means of disposal of water wastes also. Contamination of fresh water by unwanted material that makes water non-potable is known as sewage. Sewage includes mostly biodegradable pollutants such as human faecal matter, animal wastes, dissolved organic compound and organic salts. Sewage water samples from ten sites, were studied for estimation of mycoflora at Jabalpur (M.P.), they are Gulawa, Gwarighat, Hanumantal, Deotal, Ranital, Pariyat, Gaur, Ganganagar, Tewar and Sangram sagar. The observations designate the behavior of water mycoflora in sewage water and their interaction with physicochemical factors of the environment. The study in the laboratory conditions throws light on their cultural characteristics. The ecological survey of the polluted/sewer water resulted into isolation of 12 mycoflora. They are Aspergillus, Alternaria, Cladosporium, Curvularia, Fusarium, Penciltium, Mucor, Rhizopus and Yeast. In Paryet sewar maximum number of mycoflora were found.

2 tables, 9 ref

012325   Devipriya B;Parameswari A R;Rajalakshmi G; Palvannan T;Kumarashas P (Physics Dep, Periyar Univ, Salem-636 011, Email: kumaradhas@yahoo.com) : Exploring the binding affinities of P300 enzyme activators CTPB and CTB using docking method. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2010, 47(6), 364-9.

CREB binding protein (CBP) and E1A binding protein p300, also known as p300 are functionally related transcriptional co-activators (CoAs) and histone acetyltransferases (HATs). Some small molecules, which target HATs can activate or inhibit the p300 enzyme potently. Here, we report the binding affinities of two small molecules CTPB [N-(4-chloro-3-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-2-ethoxy-6~pentadecyl-benzamide ] and CTB [N-(4-chloro-3-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-2-emoxy-benzamide] with p300 using docking method to obtain the insight of their interaction with p300. These small molecules bind to the enzyme, subsequently causing a structural change in the enzyme, which is responsible for the HAT activation. CTB exhibits higher binding affinity than CTPB, and their lowest docked energies are -7.72, -1.18 kcal/mol, respectively. In CTPB molecule, phenolic hydroxyl of Tyrl397 interacts with the non-polar atoms C(5E) and C(5F), and forms polar-non polar interactions. Similar interactions have also been observed in CTB. The residues Tyrl446 and Cysl438 interact with the non-pentadecyl atoms. Further, the docking study predicts a N-H---O hydrogen bonding interaction between CTB and Leul398, in which the H...O contact distance is 2.06 A. The long pentadecyl chain of CTPB reduces the formation of hydrogen bond with the p300. The H-bond interaction could be the key factor for the better activation of CTB.

5 illus, 2 table, 20 ref

012324   Bolla K;Shaheen S Z;Singara Charya M A (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Screening of south Indian basidiomycetes for the production of exopolysaccharide and biomass in submerged culture. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2009, 32(3-4), 99-104.

Thirty strains of basidiomycetes of South Indian fungi isolated from different ecosystems were screened for production of exopolysaccharides and biomass in submerged culture. Incubation (7 and 14 days) was done at 27°C for both still and shake (150 rpm) flask cultures. The proton NMR elucidates the presence of exopolysaccharides.

1 tables, 24 ref

012323   Banerjee A K;Manasa B P;Murty U S (Biology Div, Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (C S I R), Hyderbad-500 007, Email: murty-vin@yahoo.com) : Assessing the relationship among physicochemical properties of proteins with respect to hydrophobicity: A case study on AGC kinase superfamily. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2010, 47(6), 370-7.

Understanding the protein structures is crucial, as it is involved in every cellular activity. Several experimental techniques, such as X-Ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance and electron microscopy are available to gain insight about the structure and function of a protein molecule. Gigantic data on protein structural and sequential information is deposited in various repositories regularly which provide us the scope for more theoretical studies. Hydrophobicity always plays a vital role in tertiary structure formation and behavior of a protein molecule. This study focuses on elucidating influence of several physicochemical properties on hydrophobicity of AGC kinase proteins. AGC kinase superfamily is selected due to its tremendous structural and functional variability and sequence data availability. A combined data mining and stochastic approach confirmed that out of 47 parameters, transmembrane tendency influences the target variable most, followed by percent buried residues, GRAVY (Grand Average Hydropathicity) and aliphatic index. Calculating the influence of different physicochemical parameters and their interrelation will aid tremendously in the future of protein science.

4 illus, 2 table, 32 ref

012322   Balasingh A;Kumar S P (NO, Etjorak College of Women, Chennai, Email: anusha_274@yahoo.com) : Antidermatophytic activity of neem (Azadirachta indica) seed and leaf extracts against clinical isolates of Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(1), 8-13.

The study aims to analyse the influence of neem seed and leaf extract against the growth of clinical isolates of T. rubrufh and T. mentagrophytes. Determination of MIC (Minimum inhibitory concentration) and MFC (Minimal Fungicidal Concentration) for the extracts of seeds and leaves of neem plant (Azadirachta indica) against derrnatophytes by invitro tube dilution technique was attempted. The MIC of the neem extracts was 31 μg/ml for T. mentagrophytes and 15 μg/ml for T. rubrum. The neem leaf extract at 62 μg/ml concentration for both T. mentagrophytes and T. rubrum was observed to be sufficient for inhibiting growth.

4 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

012321   Aziz S;Khadikar P V;John P E (Applied Sciences (Mathematics) Dep, Institute of Engineering and Technology, DAVV, Khandwa Road, Indore, Email: sufiaaziz@yahoo.co.in) : Sadhana index (Sd): a novel graph theroetica descriptor for quantitative structure-property relationship. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2009, 32(3-4), 111-22.

This communication introduces a new topological index called Sadhana index, abbreviated as Sd. It is a very simple W-Sz-PI -type topological index obtained by summing the number of edges on both sides of the elementary cuts of benzenoid graphs. The Sd index has the similar discriminating power as that of Wiener (W), Szeged (Sz) and PI indices. The mathematical expression of this index is given here for the first time. Also, the relative correlation potential of W, Sz PI and Sd indices is established for the first time by modeling logP of first 20 members of the polyacenes graphs. The results are discussed using variety of statistical parameters as well as by using Ridge regression analysis.

^ssc6 illus, 5 tables, 24 ref

012320   Alexandar V;Kumar S S;manikili P;Fatima Juliet D (NO, J.J. College of Arts and Science, Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu, Email: alxresearch@gmail.com) : Antimicrobial activity of Alpinia galangal (L.) Swartz. Res J biol Sci 2010, 2(1), 3-7.

The medicinal plant Alpinia galanga (L.) Swartz was screened for potential antimicrobial activity against eight medically important pathogenic strains of bacteria and ten strains of Fungi. Ethanolic extract of rhizome of the plant was used for antimicrobial assay using agar-well diffusion method. The extract was found to be most effective against two bacterial species- Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae followed by Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Klebsiella ochmtoca, Vibrio sp, Proteus mirabilis Salmonella typhi. Among the fungal strains, however it did not exhibit any powerful activity, but Candida albicans was found to be the most susceptible to the extract followed by Tricophytan rubrum, Epidermophytan floccosum, Trichophytan mentagraphytes, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus and no activity was found against Aspergillus ochraceus, Penicillium citrinum and Fusarium moniliformis. Hence the rhizome extract was found to be more effective against bacteria when compared to fungi. The method of assay thus proves the effective antimicrobial activity of the plant Alpinia galanga.

2 tables, 12 ref

011262   Bhattacharya A (Microbiology Dep, Maulana Azad Arts College, Science and Commerce, Aurangabad, Email: aditivb@indiatimes.com) : Heavy metal tolerance and uptake in indigenous bacterial consortium of sewage. Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(2), 167-72.

Metal uptake studies were carried out using a consortium of indigenous bacteria of sewage. MIC was found to be 70 μg/ml for all the metals tested. Viable counts (10⁸/ml) were obtained on metal containing media at metal concentration of 70 jig/mi. Controls showed a plate count of 10⁹/ml. There was increase in metal tolerance with increase in metal concentration and incubation time.Turbidity measurements in presence and absence of metal showed changes in length of lag, log and stationary in presence of the metal ion when compared to controls. Copper and Arsenic (31.25%) are rapidly taken up by the consortium. The uptake of mercury was lowest out of the heavy metals tested.

8 illus, 6 tables, 23 ref

011261   Xu G;Hou C R;Jiang H W;Xiang C Q;Shi N;Yuan H C;Ding Q;Zhang Y F (Urology Dep, Huashan Hospital, Fu Dan Univ, Baoshan Renhe Hospital, Email: drxugang@yahoo.com.cn) : Serum protein profiling to identify biomarkers for renal cell carcinoma. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2010, 47(4), 211-8.

Diagnostic biomarkers for early detection of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) are in great need. In the present study, we compared the serum protein profiles of patients with small RCC to those of healthy individuals to identify the differentially expressed proteins with potentiallo serve as biomarkers. Serum samples were collected from 10 patients with small RCC and 10 healthy individuals. The serum protein expression profiles were analyzed by two-dimensional (2-D) gel electrophoresis. Twenty-seven proteins with differences in expression levels between RCC patients and healthy volunteers were identified. Of these, 19 were expressed at different levels and eight were expressed in serum from the RCC group, but not from the control group. Six differentially expressed proteins identified by using mass spectrometry included coagulation factor XIII B, complement C3 and its precursor, misato homolog 1 (isoform CRA_b), hemopexin, and alpha-1-B-glycoprotein. Some of these serum proteins are known regulators of tumor progression in human malignancies. In conclusion, we successfully applied 2-D gel electrophoresis and identified six serum proteins differentially expressed between patients with small RCC and healthy volunteers. These proteins may provide novel biomarkers for early detection and diagnosis of human RCC.

4 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

011260   Tripathi U N;Chandra D (Biochemistry Dep, Lucknow Univ, Lucknow-226 007, Email: deepakvans@yahoo.com) : Anti-hyperglycemic and anti-oxidative effect of aqueous extract of Momordica charantia pulp and Trigonella foenum graecum seed in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2010, 47(4), 227-33.

Diabetes is an oxidalive stress disorder and oxidative damage to tissues such as heart, kidney, liver and other organs may be a contributory factor to several diabetic complications. Momordica charantia (family: Cucurbitaceae) and Trigonella foenutn graecum (family: Fabaceae) are used traditionally in Indian folk medicine to manage diabetes mellitus. In the present study, the anti-hyperglycemic and anti-oxidative potential of aqueous extracts of M. charantia pulp and seed powder of T. foenum graecum were assessed in alloxan (150 mg/kg body weight) induced diabetic rats. Alloxan treatment to the rats could induce diabetes as the fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels were <62>280 mg/dl. Treatment of diabetic rats for 30 days with M. charantia and T. foenum graecum could significantly (p<60>0.001) improve the FBG levels to near normal glucose levels. Antioxidant activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione content and glutathione-s-transferase) and lipid peroxidation levels were measured in heart, kidney and liver tissues of normal, diabetic and experimental animals (diabetics + treatment). TBARS levels were significantly (p<60>0.001) higher and anti-oxidative activities were found low in diabetic group, as compared to the control group. Significant (p<60>0.001) improvement in both the TBARS levels and antioxidant activities were observed when M. charantia and T. foenum graecum were given to diabetic rats. Our results clearly demonstrate that M. charantia and T. foenum graecum are not only useful in controlling the blood glucose levels, but also have antioxidant potential to protect vital organs such as heart and kidney against damage caused due to diabetes induced oxidative stress.

2 illus, 42 ref

011259   Sreenivasan N;Thomas M;Abrahamsamuel K;Kurian P (NO, Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences. P.B. No. 243, Kottayam-686 001) : Effect of amino acids on the culture characteristics of selected fungi. J Zool Soc Kerala 2010, 13(1-2), 63-8.

Mycoses are emerging worldwide coincident with the increasing population of immunocompromised individuals and drastic climatic changes. However, fungal characterization solely depends on culture techniques. A study was conducted to compare the effects on culture characteristics of three selected fungi (Aspergillus flavus, Chrysosporium sp. and Fusarium semitectum) by supplementing amino acids like lysine and aspartic acid and a combination of the two, under two thermal phases. The growth characteristics, both macroscopic and microscopic were recorded on second and fourth days of growth. Aspergillus flavus showed fastest growth at room temperature in PDA with aspartic acid and lysine, exhibiting very distinguishable macroscopic and microscopic features. However, PDA was the best media for A. flavus at 37°C. The other two fungi, Chrysosporium sp. and Fusarium semitectum showed better growth characteristics in nutrient media with lysine. This variation of growth responses in fungi towards various nutrient supplements can be successfully used as a taxonomic tool for rapid characterization.

2 tables, 10 ref

011258   Soumendra D;Bose A;Bhaumik U;Chatterjee N;Roy B;Chattaraj T K;Das A;Pal T K (Pharmaceutical Technology Dep, Bioequivalence Study Centre, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032, Email: darbar_soumen@yahoo.co.in) : Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effect of Azadirachta indica leaf extract on aceclofenac induced hepatotoxicity in rats. J pharm Res 2009, 8(2), 116-21.

Hepatotoxicity is the most serious adverse effects of Aceclofenac. In this study, the effect of Aceclofenac (ACE) induced liver damage in rats was investigated. Administration of ACE (90mg/kg/day) for 28 days produced severe liver injury, as demonstrated by dramatic elevation of serum hepatospecific markers like serum aspertate aminotransferase (AST), serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and serum y-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT). In addition, the level of plasma and hepatic thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TEARS) was elevated in ACE treated rats as compared to those of the experimental control rats. A remarkable reduction in hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and reduced glutathione (GSH) content were also observed on ACE administration as compared with experimental control rats. However, simultaneous treatments with Azadirachta indica (Al) leaf extract (both 250 and 500mg/kg) significantly attenuated ACE induced hepatotoxicity. The results showed that serum AST, ALT, ALP and GGT (p<60>0.05), and hepatic TBARS (p<60>0.01) were reduced dramatically, and hepatic SOD (p<60>0.05), CAT (p<60>0.05), GPx (p<60>0.01) activity and GSH (p<60>0.05) content were restored remarkably by Al supplementation. It is therefore suggested that Azadirachta indica can provide a definite hepatoprotective and antioxidant effect against hepatic injury caused by Aceclofenac.

5 illus, 3 tables, 44 ref

011257   Soni H;Nayak G;Mishra K;Singahi A K;Pathak A K (NO, Lakshmi Narain College of Pharmacy, Raisen Road, Bhopal-462 021) : Pharmacognostic and phytochemical evalution of leaves of Coleus aromaticus. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2010, 4(4), 71-4.

The leaves of Coleus aromaticus Benth. (Larniaceae) are reported to have great medicinal value. Present investigation includes examination of morphological and microscopic characters, ash value, and extractive values were carried out. Phytochemical evalution including qualitative chemical examination of active constituents.

5 illus, 3 tables, 4 ref

011256   Sivakumar K;Xiaolong C;Sahu M K;Rajkumar J; Swarnakumar N S;Thangaradjou T;Kathiresan K (Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Annamalai Univ, Arangipettai-608 502, Email: annaikumar@yahoo.com) : Phylogenetic (16S rDNA) analysis of a halophilic actinobacteria, isolated from pitchavaram mangroves of India, claims the genus Actinopolyspora. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2010, 33(3-4), 73-8.

Sediments were collected from 9 different saline habitats of the Pitchavaram mangrove ecosystem, India, to isolate halophilic actinobacteria, using three different media. The halophilic actinobacteria were observed only at station 9 (Suaeda region with the salinity of 65%) and only in the medium 1. Out of 11 strains isolated, one strain nl was selected for detailed taxonomical investigations. The strain (nl) required higher concentration of sodium chloride (17 to 22% (w/v) for optimal growth and thus ascertaining it's halophilic nature. The 16S rDNA analysis of the strain provided with a strong evidence to prove that the strain nl is phylogenetically akin to the genus Actinopolyspora. Micromorphological characters of the strain nl also resembled the genus Actinopolyspora and thus warranting it's inclusion in the genus Actinopolyspora. The Gene Bank nucleotide sequence accession number of the strain nl is AY 015427.

3 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

011255   Singh S K;Verma S K;Siddiqui M A;Chauhan S (Microbiology Dep, Gayatri College of Biomechical Sciences, Dehradun, Uttrakhand) : Alterations in the activity of enzymes as a method to characterize herbicide tolerance. Int J chem envir pharm Res 2010, 1(2), 74-9.

Exposure of Ocimum gratissimum seeds to Oxyfluorfen showed a varied response. At low concentration of herbicide shoot length and its fresh and dry weight mass was observed to be stimulated though it showed an remarkable decrease in root length and its mass. Chlorophyll and carotenoid contents also showed slight enhancement in values at low doses, in comparison to untreated controls. But they decreased gradually at higher concentration of herbicide. The growth in terms of total protein contents decreased progressively at high concentration (4 ppm), though at low doses (0.5 ppm), it showed an enhancement. It might be due to the increased enzymatic activities to overcome stress. Enhanced generation of active oxygen species, increased the level of total MDA contents showing high degree of lipid peroxidation, at high dose of Oxyfluorfen (% control increase = 15-40%). Enhanced exposure of herbicide to the seedlings stimulated the antioxidant enzymes. Superoxide dismutase and catalase activity were enhanced over controls (15% - 98%) but Peroxidase activity was observed to be decreased at 4 ppm concentration (21% as compared to the untreated samples). IAA oxidase activity assays showed its greater sensitivity towards the herbicide Oxyfluorfen. A considerable oxidative damage was observed due to the treatments of herbicide in seedlings.

2 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

011254   Shreedhara C S;Girish H N;Latha K P;Jali M V (Pharmacognosy Dep, Manipal Pharmaceutical Sciences College, Manipal-576 104) : Postcoital antifertility activity of the tubers of Gloriosa superba Linn. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2010, 4(4), 21-8.

The study was designed to assess the effect of a traditionally used antifertility plant, Gloriosa superba Linn. (Liliacaea) in female reproductive system. Hydroalcoholic extract of the tubers of G. superba was screened for antifertility activity using an anti-implantation model in female albino rats of normal estrous cycle after overnight cohabitation with male of proven fertility. After acute toxicity study, the extract at dose levels 30 and 60 mg/kg body weight were administered orally to female rats from day 1 to day 7 of pregnancy. At autopsy on day 10 post-coitum, number of implantation sites and the corpora lutea were recorded. The extract was found to posses significant dose-dependent, anti-implantation activity and. there was reduction in the number of litters born. The effective hydroalcoholic extract was further studied on estrogenie/antiestrogenic activity in immature overiectomiscd rats. The extract showed significant (P<60>0.01) estrogenic and antiestrogenic activity. Histological studies of the uterus were carried out to confirm this activity. Results indicated that the hydroalcohalic extract exhibited very promising antifertility activity in albino rats. The activity was attributed to the combined effect of alkaloids, tannins and phytosterols of the extract.

3 tables, 24 ref

011253   Shivashankar S;Thimmareddy C;Roy T K (Plant Physiology and Biochemistry Div, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore-560 089, Email: siva@iihr.ernet.in) : Polygalacturonase inhibitor protein from fruits of anthracnose resistant and susceptible varieties of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Indian J Biochem Biophys 2010, 47(4), 243-8.

Chilli fruit is highly susceptible to anthracnose infection at the stage of harvest maturity, due to which the fruit yield in the leading commercial variety Byadgi is severely affected. Field studies on screening of several varieties for resistance to anthracnose have shown that a variety of chilli AR-4/99K is resistant to anthracnose infection. In many crops, resistance to fungal attack has been correlated with PGIP activity in developing fruits based on which transgenic varieties have been developed with resistance to fungi. The present study was carried out to determine whether anthracnose resistance in AR-4/99K was due to the increased levels of PGIP alone and/ or due to differences, if any, in the properties of PGIP. Hence, a comparative study of the properties of polygalacturonase inhibitor protein (PGIP) isolated from fruits of anthracnose resistant chilli var AR-4/99K and a susceptible variety Byadgi was conducted with the objective of utilizing the information in genetic transformation studies. Both the PGIPs from anthracnose resistant and susceptible varieties of chilli exhibited similarities in the elution pattern on Sephadex gel, DEAE cellulose, PAGE and SDS-PAGE. The two PGIPs were active over a wide range of pH and temperature. Both PGIPs showed differential inhibitory activity against polygalacturonase (PG) secreted by Colletotrichum gleosporoides, C. capsici, C. lindemuthianum, Fusarium moniliforme and Sclerotium rolfsii. The inhibitory activity of PGIP from both resistant and susceptible varieties was the highest (82% and 76%, respectively) against the PG from Colletotrichum capsici, a pathogen causing anthracnose rot of chilli, while the activity was lower (1.27 to 12.3%) on the other fungal PGs. Although PGIP activity decreased with fruit maturation in both the varieties, the resistant variety maintained a higher activity at 45 days after flowering (DAF) as compared to the susceptible variety which helped it to overcome the infection by anthracnose as against the susceptible variety (Byadgi) in which PGIP activity was drastically reduced at maturity. The molecular mass of PGIP as determined by SDS-PAGE was found to be 37 kDa. N-terminal sequence analysis of the PGIP showed the first six amino acid residues from N-terminal end were Asp-Thr-His-Lys-Ser-Glu (DTHKSE), respectively. The similarities in properties of the two PGIPs support the earlier findings that resistance of AR-4/99K to anthracnose fungus is a result of its higher PGIP activity at maturity.

7 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref