013424   Siva Kumar K;Sahu M K;Kathiresan K (NO, Cent of Advd Study in Mar Biol Annamalai Univ, Parangipettai-608 502) : Isolation and characterisation of streptomycetes producing antibiotic from a mangrove environment. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 457-64.

Actinomycetes have gained prominence in recent years because of their potential for producing antibiotics. The mangrove ecosystem supports a rich microbial flora. Hence, understanding the antibiotic producing actinomycetes present in the mangrove environment is very much essential in view of their activity against the potential human pathogens. Keeping this in view, sediment samples were collected from different stations of the Pichavaram mangrove ecosystem (Lat. 11°27'N; Long. 79°47'E), situated along the southeast coast of India. The colonies were isolated and tested for their antagonistic activity and the strains possessing prominent activity against B. subtilis, P. vulgaris, S. flexneri, K. pneumoniae, V. cholerae and S. aureus were selected for identification. The micromorphological observations of the strains s1d, s5a, s5e, s5l, s5k, s6b, s7c and s8e reveal that all belong to the genus-Streptomyces. The predominance of Streptomyces in any actinomycete population is a well-known fact. The analysis of cell components in the study has also revealed the wall type-I (the wall type-I is typical for the genus Streptomyces). Hence, the morphological, micromorphological, physiological and biochemical results obtained for the antibiotic producing strains were compared with those of the Streptomyces species given in the key of Nonomura (1974) and Bergey's Manual of Determinative Bacteriology (Buchanan and Gibbons, 1974) and were identified as S. xantholiticus, S. gibsonii, S. clavifer, S. kanamycelicus. S. aureocirculatus, S. albidoflavus, S. galtieri and S. xanthophaeus. Hence, it is suggested that the strains isolated and identified from the Pichavaram mangrove environment, possessing antibiotic properties are worth investigating in details in future for isolating the antibiotics for human welfare.

8 plates, 5 tables, 14 ref

013423   Shinde V V (Dep STOPWORD Dairy STOPWORD Fd Technol, Coll of Dairy and Fd Sci Technol Maharana Pratap Univ of Agric and Tec, Udaipur-313 001, Email: shindevishwajeet@yahoo.co.in) : Production kinetics and functional properties of carboxymethyl sorghum starch. Nat Prod Radiance 2005, 4(6), 466-70.

Suitability of sorghum as a starch source and its chemical modification to carboxymethyl starch was investigated. The reaction conditions during modification of starch such as reaction time and pH of the reaction medium were optimized. Reaction time of 90 minutes at a pH of 10.5 results in maximum yield of carboxymethyl starch. The functional properties of carboxymethyl starch like swelling power, solubility characteristics and rheological properties were also studied. The solubility and swelling power of modified starch were maximum at 70°C. The viscosity of carboxymethyl starch was found to be several folds lower as compared to native starch. The Sorghum genotype AK-809 starch is comparable to corn in its starch content.

7 tables, 16 ref

013422   Shende R C;Patil M B (Univ Dep STOPWORD Biochem, Nagpur Univ, L.I.T. Premises, Amaravati Road, Nagpur-440 033) : Isolation of haloalkalophilic weedicide tolerant Rhizobium from nodules of Cajanus cajan. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 421-6.

Two Rhizobium strains were isolated from the nodules of Cajanus cajan plants grown in different soil conditions. The normal (N) strain was isolated from soil with normal electrical conductivity and haloalkalophilic (H) strain was isolated from nodules of plant grown in saline soil with high electrical conductivity. The optimum pH and salt requirement of growth of N strain was 6.0 and 100 mM respectively, whereas the H strain had optimum pH of 8.0 and salt requirement of 300 mM respectively. The weedicide tolerance (LD₅₀) of N strain towards glyphosate was 4% ai as compared to the 6% ai for H strain. Both N and H strains nodulated the C. cajan plants at their specific optimum conditions and even in presence of glyphosate.

2 illus, 7 tables, 15 ref

013421   Sharma N;Bansal K L (Dep STOPWORD Basic Sci, Dr. Y.S. Parmar Univ of Hort and For, Nauni, Solan-173 230) : Comparison of forest waste degradation under solid state fermentation and submerged fermentation by coculture of Bacillus licheniformis and B. coagulans. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 387-90.

Bacillus licheniformis and B. coagulans were found to be the potent producers of cellulase and xylanase isolated from degrading wood and soil. Both these isolates showed better growth under coculture conditions. The waste of forest species Pinus roxburghii, Cedrus deodara, Quercus leucotricophora and Robinia pseudocacia were selected as substrates for biodegradation studies depending upon their wide abundance, local availability and industrial use. The wood waste was subjected to various physicochemical pretreatments for enhancing the degradation. Their biodegradation was compared under submerged fermentation (SmF) and solid state fermentation (SSF) conditions. SSF using tap water was found to be superior over SmF showing maximum per cent increase in BI of 174.90 in dil. H₂SO₄ pretreated Robinia. Replacing tap water with modified basal salt medium in the degradation medium has further increased SSF of biomass. Biodegradation scaled up considerably when tap water was replaced with modified BSM touching the record level of 2350 per cent increase in dil. HNO3, treated Robintia as compared to its SSF with tap water.

2 tables, 14 ref

013420   Saxena R K;Isar J;Saran S;Kaushik R;Davidson W S (Dep STOPWORD Microbiol, Univ of Delhi, South Campus, Benito Juarez Road, New Delhi 110 021, Email: rksmicro@yahoo.co.in) : Efficient microwave-assisted hydrolysis of triolein and synthesis of bioester, bio-surfactant and glycerides using Aspergillus carneus lipase. Curr Sci 2005, 89(6), 1000-003.

Microwave irradiations are known to alter the rate of chemical reactions. Often this results in enhanced reaction rates; higher yields, purity of products; more efficient and homogeneous distribution of energy and heating effects, and easier water elimination. The enzyme lipase (triacylglycerol ester hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.3) is a special class of esterase enzyme that acts on fats and oils and hydrolyses them in steps into the substituted glycerides and fatty acids, and finally on complete hydrolysis into glycerol and fatty acid. Hydrolysis of triolein using a fungus, Aspergillus carneus lipase has been carried out both under normal conditions and microwave irradiations of LOW 10 (175 W, 38-40°C) and HIGH 100 (800 W, 90°C). Analysis of the hydrolytic products on TLC plates showed the presence of triolein, diolein, monolein and oleic acid in 24 h under normal conditions, compared to microwave irradiations where it took 45-90 s under LOW power level and 15-30 s under HIGH power level for the production of monolein and oleic acid. However, complete hydrolysis of triolein took place in 160 s at LOW power and 75 s at HIGH power level. The synthesis of bioester, biosurfactant and glycerides could successfully be carried out rapidly within 30 s under both solvent-containing and solvent-free condition under HIGH power microwave irradiation.

2 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

013419   Sathyapriya E;Yogamoorthi A (NO, Cent for Futures Stud Pondicherry Univ, Pondicherry-605 014) : Screening of coastal sand-dune plant Spinifex littoreus (Burm. f.) Merr. for its antibacterial property. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 415-17.

Coastal sand dune plant Spinifex littoreus (Burm.f.) Merr was screened for its antibacterial property using methanol extract of the plant. Ten human pathogens were selected and tested against the extract after finding out the MIC and MBC levels of each strain. Of the 10 pathogens, Vibrio cholerae was the only pathogen, which was significantly inhibited both by aerial part and root of Spiniex littoreus. Further the root showed higher degree of inhibitory effect than the extract of aerial part.

1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

013418   Sarkar S (Dep STOPWORD Commerce, Dinhata College,Dinhata, Cooch Behar-736135, Email: siddhartha_31@yahoo.com) : Economic valuation and health linkages to indoor air pollution. Int J Envir Dev 2005, 2(2), 141-51.

Indoor air pollution pose a substantial vulnerability to the health of rural women and children below five years. There is strong evidence that chronic exposure to indoor air pollutants enhances the risk of a range of respiratory illnesses, including acute lower respiratory infections in children and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in adults, essentially women. It contributes to health damages, and direct utility losses to living being. These losses could be avoided by the environmentally sustainable planning at certain extra cost that could be less than the losses circumvented.

2 tables, 23 ref, 1 box

013417   Saikia L R;Hussain I (Dep STOPWORD Life Sci, Dibrugarh Univ, Dibrugarh-786 004) : Obnoxious weeds of Sivasagar and their utility as folklore medicine among the Ahom and Khamti communities. Ecol Envir Conserv 2005, 11(2), 231-4.

Study deals with the use of weeds as folklore medicine by the Ahom and Khamti communities of Sivasagar district. The weeds are abundant everywhere at Sivasagar. Study highlights the use of 18 weeds as folklore medicine providing details about the plants, preparation of drugs and their uses as folklore medicine by the ethnic groups.

10 ref

013416   Roy Barman S;Chattoo B B (Dep STOPWORD Microbiol STOPWORD Biotechnol Cent Fac STOPWORD Sci, M.S. Univ of Baroda, Vadoadara-390 002, Email: chattoo@bcmsu.ac.in) : Rice blast fungus sequenced. Curr Sci 2005, 89(6), 930-1.

2 illus, 4 ref

013415   Rao M S;Misra S;U Suryanarayana Murthy; Venkateswarlu Y;Srinivasulu M (Biol Div, Indian Inst of Chem Technol, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: murty_usn@yahoo.com) : Effect of lamellarin alkaloid mixture obtained from marine Ascidian Didemnum obscurum and its synergistic action with Beauveria bassiana on Culex quinquefasciatus (Say) larvae. Nat Prod Radiance 2005, 4(6), 460-5.

Preliminary laboratory trial was undertaken to determine the bioefficacy of lamellarin alkaloid mixture (LMA), obtained from the Indian Ascidian, Didemnum obscurum against II and III stage of Culex quinquefasciatus (CQ) larvae. For the study, Esfenvalrate (EFV) a synthetic pyrithroid was taken as positive control. Both these compounds at different concentrations caused mortality of II and III instar of CQ larvae between 48 to 96 hours. When compared the toxicity efficacy of these compounds, EFV was shown to be more toxic than the LMA. From the synergistic study, II and III instar larvae were exposed to LC₅₀ of Beauveria bassiana (Bb) along with the lowest concentration of LMA (1 ppm) and EFV (0.05ppm), which showed a significant increase in the morality rate within 48 hours. Between these two compounds tested, EFV is a known neurotoxic agent and hence not advisable to apply on mosquito control. As LMA is reported for its many biologically important properties, it also showed larvicidal activity against CQ larvae. From the study, it is concluded that synergistic action of B. bassiana along with LMA can be utilized for mosquito control operations. The detailed results are discussed in this paper.

4 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

013414   Rajendra Kumar T (Departments STOPWORD Path STOPWORD Molec STOPWORD Cellular Biol, Baylor Coll of Med Houston, Texas 77030,USA, Email: tkumar@bcm.tmc.edu) : Genetic approaches to study the biology of gonadotropins. Proc Indian Natn Sci Acad-Pt B 2004, 70(5-6), 531-50.

Pituitary and placental gonadotropins are heterodimeric glycoproteins consisting of a common alpha and a hormone-specific beta subunit that are non-covalently linked. These hormones orchestrate gonadal growth, differentiation, and function by regulating both steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. Advances in the past two decades in manipulating the mouse genome by random or site-specific mutagenesis have heralded a new dimension to our understanding of the biology of gonadotropins. It is now possible to model many human reproductive disorders involving gonadotropins/gonadotropin signaling in the mouse. In addition, transcriptional regulation of gonadotropin subunits, their biosynthesis, heterodimer assembly, and secretion can be studied using several in vivo and in vitro genetic approaches. These in vivo and in vitro models will have significant impact in understanding gonadotropin physiology and pathophysiology.

4 tables, 150 ref

013413   Rajan M R;Mariappan V;Vathsala R (Dep STOPWORD Biol, Gandhigram Rur Institute-Deemed Univ, Gandhigram-624 303) : Grading of milk quality in Dindigul town, India with special reference to coliforms. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 411-13.

Study deals with the grading of milk quality in Dindigul town with special reference to coliforms which were analysed in seven samples. Comparative microbial analysis of milk samples such as standard plate count, methylene blue reduction test was carried out. The tests show that five samples were poor, one was fair, and only one was good. Biochemical tests such as Indole production test, methyl red, Glucose and lactose fermentation tests showed positive results, whereas Voges proskauer and citrate utilization test showed negative results in all the seven milk samples. Out of the seven milk samples, only four milk samples were produced metallic sheen and were confirmed and identified as Eschericia coli.

3 tables, 10 ref

013412   Prema P;Palavesam A;Rajesh Kumar R;Sahul Hameedu A (Dep STOPWORD Microbiol, V.H.N.S.N. Coll, Virudhunagar-626 001, Email: prema_drprema@yahoo.com) : Fermentation of pretreated substrates for ethanol poduction with immobilized yeast cell, Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 371-6.

Ability of raw materials such as glucose, pine apple and molasses for alcohol fermentation related to various physicochemical factors was investigated. For this the production of ethanol was measured by using immobilized yeast strain, Saccharomyces cerevisiae on glucose, molasses and pine apple as substrates. Maximum biomass production of 17.5 g/l was recorded at 40°C when glucose was used as substrate. The effect of pH on biomass production showed that the maximum production of 17.2 g/l in glucose added medium at pH 6.0. The results on residual sugar level related to different parameters revealed that the production of ethanol established a negative relationship with sugar concentration. Among the tested substrates, the production of ethanol decreased in the order of glucose, molasses and pine apple respectively. The variation in ethanol production as a function of substrates and physicochemical parameters was statistically significant (P<60>0.05).

2 illus, 6 tables, 24 ref

013411   Prakash S;Jennathil Firthous S A;Valentin Bhimba B (Dep STOPWORD Biotechnol, Udaya Sch of Engng, Vellamodi-629 204) : Biomedical potential of seaweeds against Otitis media infected bacterial pathogens. Seaweed Res Utilis 2005, 27(1-2), 105-109.

Seaweed extracts were studied for their antibacterial activity against Otitis Media infected bacterial pathogens. The Otitis Media bacterial pathogens were isolated from 25 infected patients. The isolated bacterial sps. were Gram positive and Gram negative such as Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumonias, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and Moraxella catarrhalis. Bioassay was carried out with 45 extracts of 9 algae namely Sargassum wightii, Chaetomorpha antennina, Ulva fasciata, Colpomenia sinuosa, Halymenia floresia, Amphiroa fragillisima, Spatoglossum sp. Gracilaria edulis and Enteromorpha sp. Among the 45 extracts, Halymenia floresia crude was found to produce maximum growth inhibition against the bacterial pathogens. Five solvents were used for the extraction of antimicrobials of which butanol showed maximum extraction of antimicrobials.

2 tables, 11 ref

013410   Prabhakara Rao Y;Sirisha A;Ramana P V (Dep STOPWORD Zool, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Enhanced levels of metallothionein in Scylla serrata exposed to cadmium. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 391-4.

Metallothioneins (MTs) are low molecular weight proteins rich in cysteine content and are reported to be present in most of the invertebrates. Experiments were carried out to determine the MT content in hepatopancreas of Scylla serrata exposed to cadmium. The MT content was determined by adopting silver saturation method. Parallel controls were maintained throughout the experiments. Initially, static renewal bioassays were conducted to estimate 96h LC₅₀ value of cadmium and it was observed to be 16.87 ppm (Y=1.6364 + 2.7414X; r=0.9962). Experiments were performed further by exposing the crabs to a sublethal concentration (1/5th of LC₅₀) of cadmium for 10 days. Hepatopancreas was isolated from both control and exposed crabs at intervals of 24h, 48h, 96h and 10 days for MT and metal estimation. The results indicate an increase in MT content in relation to exposure period. Though these investigations suggest enhanced levels of MT on cadmium exposure, further experiments are needed to differentiate various types of MTs.

3 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

013409   Pillai C K S;Sundaresan N;Radhakrishnan Pillai M;Thomas T;Thomas T J (NO, Regional Res Lab, Thiruvananthapuram-695 019, Email: ckspillai@yahoo.com) : Investigations on the liquid crystalline phases of cation-induced condensed DNA. Pramana J Phys 2005, 65(4), 723-9.

Viral and nonviral condensing agents are used in gene therapy to compact oligonucleotides and plasmid DNA into nanostructures for their efficient transport through the cell membranes. Whereas viral vectors are best by the toxic effects on the immune system, most of the nonviral delivery vehicles are not effective for use in clinical system. Recent investigations indicate that the supramolecular organization of DNA in the condensed state is liquid crystalline. The present level of understanding of the liquid crystalline phase of DNA is inadequate and a thorough investigation is required to understand the nature, stability, texture and the influence of various environmental conditions on the structure of the phase. The study is mainly concerned with the physico-chemical investigations on the liquid crystalline transitions during compaction of DNA by cationic species such as polyamines and metallic cations. As a preliminary to the above investigation, studies were conducted on the evolution of mesophase transitions of DNA with various cationic counterion species using polarized light microscopy. These studies indicated significant variations in the phase behaviour of DNA in the presence of Li and other ions. Apart from the neutralization of the charges on the DNA molecule, these ions are found to influence selectively the hydration sphere of DNA that in turn influences the induction and stabilization of the LC phases. The higher stability observed with the liquid crystalline phases of Li-DNA system could be useful in the production of nanostructured DNA. In the case of the polyamine, a structural specificity effect depending on the nature, charge and structure of the polyamine used has been found to be favoured in the crystallization of DNA.

4 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

013408   Paul D C;Nadarajah K;Kader J (Sch STOPWORD Biosci STOPWORD Biotechnol Fac STOPWORD Sci STOPWORD Tech, , 43600 Bangi Selangor) : Yield and quality of chitosan extracted from fungi grown on different growth media. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 591-5.

Yield degree of deacetylation, average molecular weight and colour of chitosan extracted from three fungal isolates, Absidia sp. DR, Absidia sp. 2al and Rhizopus sp. grown on three different growth media (YPG [complex media], BG [semi-defined media], and TVB [defined medium]) were compared. Results show that fungi grown on YPG gave rise to higher yield of chitosan per biomass (10% to 18% for Absidia sp. and 11% to 16% for Rhizopus sp.) and a higher average molecular weight (2.370 x 105) as compared to BG (6.765 x 104) and TVB (7.366 x 104). Absidia sp. DR grown on YPG for 60 hours gave the highest yield (18.36% chitosan/biomass). The degree of deacetylation for chitosan was found to be highest when extracted from fungi grown on TVB (84.55%) followed by BG (83.79%) and YPG (82.56%). It was also observed that the lightness value of chitosan was highest for extracts from Rhizopus sp. grown on TVB medium.

3 illus, 3 tables

013407   Parija S C;Sahu P S (Dep STOPWORD Microbiol, Jawaharlal Inst of Postgrad Med Educ and Res, Pondicherry-605 006) : Evaluation of chick red blood cells stabilized with various aldehydes in the indirect haemagglutination (IHA) test diagnosis of neurocysticercosis. J Vet Parasitol 2005, 19(1), 9-14.

Study was carried out to evaluate the use of chick cells in the indirect haemagglutination (IHA) test for the diagnosis of neurocysticercosis. Patients attending epilepsy clinic, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, (JIPMER) Hospital, Pondicherry were included in the present study. The study included 15 cases of neurocysticercosis with single small cystic lesion, 15 cases of neurocysticercosis with multiple cystic lesions, 15 cases of neurological disorders other than cysticercosis (meningitis, etc.) and 30 normal healthy people as controls. Results of the study showed that agglutinated chick red blood corpuscles (RBCs) settled after 30 to 45 min of incubation at room temperature and demonstrated a definite pattern of haemagglutination with the cysticercus positive sera. In case of most of the sera from patients with neurocysticercosis, the IHA using double aldehyde stabilized (DAS) chick cells gave 2-4 tunes higher titer than the chick cells stabilized by single aldehydes such as formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde or pyruvic aldehyde. The IHA employing DAS chick cells was found to be equally sensitive with that of the IHA using DAS human RBCs. A total of 27 out of 30 sera from the cases of neurocysticercosis were positive for cysticercus antibodies by the IHA employing the chick DAS as well as human DAS cells sensitized with cysticercus antigen. In conclusion, results of the present study show that the MA using DAS chick RBCs instead of human 'O' RBCs will be a useful procedure with equal sensitivity for the diagnosis of neuerocysticercosis.

2 tables, 22 ref

013406   Parameswari P;Sivapriya O;Palaniappan R (P G Deparment STOPWORD Microbiol, Sri Akilandeswari Women'S Coll, Vandavasi-604 408) : Production of lipase by Rhizopus sp using copra waste extract as a substrate. J Ecotoxic envir Monit 2005, 15(4), 393-5.

The Rhizopus sp was isolated from the oil mill effluent and enzyme lipase producing efficacy of Rhizopus sp; was identified by tributyrin agar method. It produce 1.3 cm clear zone in tributyrin agar plate. In the present study the copra waste extract was used as substrate. Inoculum was prepared in the milk broth to enrich the organism. After four days of inoculation the inoculum was used for lipase production. Different parameters like temperature, pH, incubation periods were analysed. The lipase activity was estimated by titrimetric method. From these experiments Rhizopus sp; has a high lipase activity (4.16mg/ml) at pH 6.0 in room temperature 25° - 28°C at 7th day/of incubation.

1 illus, 9 ref

013405   Pal S;Mandal D K (Balsi High Sch, (H.S.), Balsi, Bankura -722 206) : Cyclic activities of adrenal tissues and their relation with annual ovarian cycle in spiny EEL, Macrognathus pancalus (Hamilton). J Inld Fish Soc India 2005, 37(1), 40-6.

Oogenesis in Macrognathus pancalus is divided into six developmental stages based on the cytological characteristics of the cells. The annual ovarian cycle can be divided into five phases viz. growth, maturation, spawning, post- spawning and resting on the basis of the histomorphological differences and gonado-somatic index. The adrenal components, interrenal and chromaffin cells exhibit hyper and hypo-activities corresponding with the breeding and non-breeding phases in this fish.

12 illus, 12 ref

013404   Padmakumar V;Sindhu K (Dep STOPWORD Aqu Biol STOPWORD Fish, Kerala Univ Campus Kariavattom, Trivandrum-695 581) : Fauna associated with Valoniopsis pachynema, (Martens) Boergesen of Kanyakumari coast. Seaweed Res Utilis 2005, 27(1-2), 159-64.

Ecology of fauna associated with the green alga Valoniopsis pachynema of the Kanyakumari coast was investigated during the most dominant period, September, 1990 to March, 1991. Faunal associates of the alga were quantified as total number of organisms per gram dry weight and also per 100 cm surface area. The maximum number of individuals per gram dry weight and per 100 cm of alga was reported during November, 1990. But minimum individuals per g dry weight of alga was registered during February, 1991 and for 100 cm of alga was found during September, 1990. Totally about 5 major groups of organisms i.e., Coelenterates, Polychaetes, Crustaceans, Molluscs and Echinoderms were recorded. The crustaceans were the most dominant organisms amounting to about 90% and among this, amphipods alone contributed to the tune of 87%. Environmental factors did not show any significant correlations with the number of individuals per g dry weight of algae.

4 illus, 12 tables, 26 ref

013403   Naik K;Padhi S (Algal Res Lab Dep STOPWORD Bot, Berhampur Univ, Berhampur-760 007) : Seasonality of attached marine micro algae on an exposed rock surface of the Gopalpur sea. Seaweed Res Utilis 2005, 27(1-2), 1-6.

Study on attached microalgal communities from a protruded rock surface near the shore of Gopalpur sea in Orissa was made during December 2001 to November 2002. The epilithic and epiphytic microalgal species belonging to Chlorophyceae, Cyanophyceae and Bacillariophyceae showed seasonal fluctuations. The study enumerates 25 species of green algae, 15 species of blue green algae and 18 species of diatoms. The analysis indicates that a number of environmental factors appear to influence the composition of the attatched micro algae.

2 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

013402   Mukherjee M;Sengupta T;Majumder H K (NO, Indian Inst of Chem Biol, 4,Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Kolkata-700 032, Email: hkmajumder@iicb.res.in) : Biochemistry of Leishmania parasites in relation to developing rational approaches to chemotherapy. Proc Indian Natn Sci Acad-Pt B 2004, 70(5-6), 579-91.

Leishmaniases are a group of diseases caused by protozoan parasite of the genus Leishmania that affects millions of people worldwide. Their remarkable ability to survive the hostile environment within the host macrophage and the molecules that enable them to survive in such an environment has been a subject of intense research. Highlights the recent knowledge on the biochemistry of the parasite with special reference to kinetoplast DNA and its replication, unusual transcription, DNA topoisomerases and surface of the parasites as possible targets that can be exploited in drug designing and development of new intervention strategies.

6 illus, 120 ref

013401   Mohammed Rafi M;Charyulu P B B N (Dep STOPWORD Microbiol, Sri Krishnadevaraya Univ, Anantapur-515 003, Email: petla_bhaskarachary@hotmail.com) : Diazotrophic bacteria and facultative symbiotrophic associations in the phyllosphere of foxtail millet. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 405-8.

Bacteria were isolated from the phyllosphere of foxtail millet (variety Lepakshi) at 15-day intervals. The bacterial isolates varied in their efficiency to fix nitrogen. Of the 10 selected isolates of bacteria, only 8 isolates were diazotrophs with 5 isolates exhibiting appreciable nitrogen fixation. Further, the isolates obtained from the phyllosphere of 45-day old plants showed maximum nitrogen-fixing efficiency. Most of the axenic bacterial isolates were identified as Beijerinckia indica. Facultative symbiotrophic associations from the phyllosphere also exhibited appreciable nitrogen-fixing activity.

3 tables, 29 ref

013400   Mishra D K;Bohidar K;Pandey A K (Dep STOPWORD Zool, Deogarh Coll, Deogarh-768 119) : Effect of sublethal carbaryl and cartap exposure on protein metabolism of the freshwater teleost, Channa punctatus (Bloch). J Inld Fish Soc India 2005, 37(1), 30-4.

Lethal concentrations (LC₅₀) of Carbaryl (Sevin) and Cartap (Caldan) for Channa punctatus were evaluated for 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. The fishes were exposed to sublethal (30% of 96 h LC₅₀) concentration of Carbaryl (5.1 mg l^-1) and Cartap (0.18 mg l^-1) for 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. Protein content in liver, kidney and gill of the control fish ranged between 66.13 ± 2.06 -71.50 ± 2.24, 54.68 ± 3.78-59.23 ± 1.74 and 46.98 ± 1.34 - 48.46 + 1.70 mg g^-1, respectively whereas the free amino acids in corresponding tissues varied between 0.412 ± 0.002 - 0.421± 0.002, 0.380 ± 0.010 - 0.402 ± 0.003 and 0.314 ± 0.002 - 0.316 ± 0.002 mg g^-1, respectively. The protein content in all the tissues exhibited a progressive decrease after exposure to sublethal concentrations of the pesticides. The decrease of protein content at 96 h was high in liver (27.73%) for Carbaryl and 48.24% for Cartap while it was less in kidney (11.74%) for Carbaryl and 25.91 % for Cartap. The percentage fall in protein content was more pronounced in the Cartap exposed fishes as compared to those subjected to Carbaryl treatment. Conversely, the concentration of total free amino acids in liver, kidney and gill of the experimental fishes were higher during all the exposure periods than the control. While the rise in liver, kidney and gills were 24.1%, 24.38% and 57.28%, respectively for Carbaryl, it was 51.81%, 53.98% and 59.81 %, respectively, in Cartap treated fishes.

2 tables, 25 ref

013399   Mcgraw K J (NO, Sch of Life Sci Arizona St Univ, Tempe, AZ 85287-4501, Email: kevin.mcgraw@asu.edu) : Not all red, orange, and yellow colors are carotenoid-based: the need to couple biochemical and behavioral studies of color signals in birds. Proc Indian Natn Sci Acad-Pt B 2004, 70(5-6), 593-8.

1 illus, 50 ref

013398   Mathur R;Aditani P (Dep STOPWORD Fds STOPWORD Nutr, Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati Univ, Ajmer) : Microbiological evaluation and acceptance of street foods (snacks) sold in Ajmer city. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 563-67.

Study was aimed to evaluate the microbiological load and acceptance of street foods (snacks) sold in Ajmer city. Popular food items were selected to assess the microbial load and acceptability by the local population, from the popular food service centres of Ajmer city. The microbiological evaluation of food items showed high plate count, total coliform organisms and fungal contamination; ranging from 2.33 x 10⁸ to 3.77 x 10⁸, 1.13 x 10⁶ to 2.7 x 10⁶ and 0.57 x 10⁴ to 1.6 x 10⁴ respectively. The total acceptability of street food was 77.4% among the regular customers. Looking at the tremendous popularity of street foods, these centres cannot be banned; instead they should be taught significance of hygienic preparation and serving of food.

2 illus, 5 tables, 9 ref

013397   Mastan S A;Qureshi T A (Dep STOPWORD Appl Aquacult, Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal-462 026) : Pathogenicity of Aeromonas hydrophila artificially injected in Cirrhinus mrigala (Ham.). Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 605-7.

Experiments were conducted with A. hydrophila which was injected to C. mrigala intraperitoneally and observations were made at regular intervals for 96 hrs to study the disease progress. Visible structural and hebavioural symptoms were noticed. Moribund and dead fish were autopsied to observe pathological changes in the different organs. The LD₅₀ value obtained was 3.01 x 10³ cells/ml. The statistical analysis such as regression equation, chi-square, Log LD₅₀+ standard deviation (SD) and fiducial limits (FL) of data were recorded as Y=-2.4114 ± 2.033 x, 2.662, 3.4785 ± 0.072 and 2.17 x 10³ and 4.19 x 10³ cells/ml, respectively. The chi-square value was found to be significant at p<60>0.5.

1 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

013396   Malatsi N O;Hind J V;Abrahamse H (Fac STOPWORD Hlth Sci, Univ of Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa) : Effect of cobalt-60 radiation on dormant Mycobacterium smegmatis in vitro. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 583-90.

Burgeoning tuberculosis epidemic worldwide is mainly due to the reactivation of latent tuberculosis (TB) infection. South Africa is rated as one of the countries with the worst TB epidemic and the population that is mostly affected is the mineworkers. It is suggested that reactivation of latent TB infection is responsible for these high tuberculosis rates in this population. Various risk factors for reactivation of latent TB have been identified and include silicosis, diabetes mellitus, immunosuppressive drug therapy, Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection and malnutrition. The aim of the study was to determine if there is any relationship between exposure to low levels of ionizing radiation and reactivation TB by evaluating the effects of radiation on dormant mycobacteria in vitro. The Wayne in Vitro dormancy model was used to induce dormancy in Mycobacterium smegmatis. Dormant cultures were exposed to 0.1,1 and 5 Gray cobalt-60 radiation. Radiation effects were evaluated using viable counts after 24 and 72 hours of radiation exposure. Exponential phase cultures treated in exactly the same way as the dormant cultures together with the cultures that were not exposed to any radiation served as controls. Subsequent to Cobalt-60 irradiation, the dormant cultures were sensitive to metronidazole and resistant to isoniazid and the inverse was observed in irradiated exponential phase cultures. The results suggested that both dormant and exponential phase Mycobacterium smegmatis cultures retained their antibiotic susceptibility pattern and thus were not affected by Cobalt-60 radiation.

2 illus, 43 ref

013395   Maity G;Bhattacharyya D (NO, Indian Inst of Chem Biol, 4 Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Jadavpur, Kolkata-700 032, Email: debasish@iicb.res.in) : Assay of snake venom phospholipase A₂ using scattering mode of a spectrofluorimeter. Curr Sci 2005, 89(6), 1004-008.

When aggregated micelles of phospholipids are hydrolysed by phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) in an aqueous dispersion, scattering from the solution is decreased. Hydrolysis of dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine by PLA₂ from Russell's viper venom has been investigated using a spectrofluorimeter at 650 nm. The rate of decrease in scattering was linearly dependent with venom concentration, while the initial lag at the onset was inversely related to it. Similar dependency was observed with substrate concentration. The reaction was inhibited with venom preincubated with antivenom or withdrawal of Ca⁺² by EGTA. Gas-liquid chromatography of the product showed liberation of myristic acid. The amount of fatty acid released by 1 mg of venom was found to be 3470 and 3680 nmol/min, using scattering mode and pH-stat titrimetric assay respectively, that indicated a good correlation between them. The sensitivity of detection by the scattering mode was double that of the titrimetric assay.

4 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

013394   Kumar I R;Swamy N V C;Nagendra H R (NO, Hindu Univ of America Ext Cent Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Sam, Eknath Bhavan, 19, Gavipuram Circle, Bangalore-560 019, Email: nvcswamy@rediffmail.com) : Effect of pyramids on microorganisms. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2005, 4(4), 373-9.

Investigations have been undertaken to find out if an enclosed pyramidal structure has any influence on the growth of microorganisms inside them, as claimed in legendary literature. Five models were used, four of them being pyramidal in shape and the fifth with a flat roof. The medium chosen was fresh unboiled milk. The control was the same milk sample kept in the open. Results subjected to statistical analysis indicate that there is a noticeable influence of the pyramidal shape on the rate of growth of microorganisms. Quantitative data have been supported by visual observations.

4 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

013393   Kulkarni S A;Kshirsagar H S (Dep STOPWORD Anim Sci STOPWORD Dairy Sci, A.E.S. Coll, Hingoli-431 513) : Two new protozoan species Entodinium biconvexum Sp. Nov. and Entodinium flagi Sp. Nov. from rumen of Indian cattle (Bos indicus). Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 491-4.

Rumen fluid samples were observed to study the taxonomy of rumen ciliate protozoa belonging to genus Entodinium from the adult Indian cattle (Bos indicus). Paper deals with the morphology of two new species Entodinium biconvexum and Entodinium flagi. Their body dimensions, frequency distribution and variation of characters are recorded. Critical comments are made on their spcific indentity E. biconvexum is characterized by having oval body, elongated wedge shaped macronucleus. Presence of two triangular unequal length caudal lobes; E. flagi is characterized by its elongated body, presence of single broad cuticular fold running along the main body axis and the triangular pointed unequal length caudal lobes.

1 table, 42 ref

013392   Krishnankutty N (P G Dep STOPWORD Zool, Madura Coll, Madurai-625 011) : Plant proteins in fish feed: An additional analysis. Curr Sci 2005, 89(6), 934-6.

2 tables, 25 ref

013391   Kaur R;Johal M S;Sandhu G S (Dep STOPWORD Zool, SGN Khalsa Coll, Sri Ganganagar-335 001) : Histological changes in the branchial architecture of Heteropneustes fossilis induced by fenvalerate, a synthetic pyrethroid. Indian J Anim Sci 2005, 75(10), 1159-62.

Effect of sub-lethal concentrations of fenvalerate, a synthetic pyrethroid has been observed on the histoarchitecture of third gill arch of Heteropneustes fossilis, an air-breathing fish following 5d, 15d and 30d exposure durations by light microscopy. Initially, there was an increase in number of mucous cells on the epithelium. The secondary gill lamella, the main seat of gaseous exchange depicted invariably lengthening and curling, rounding off tips due to accumulation of blood cells, hyperplasia of lamellar epithelium leading to clavate-globate shape, wilting of pillar cell system and scattering of blood cells. Considerable disruption to lamellae was observed on prolonged exposure to the pyrethroid. Fenvalerate induced damage to secondary gill lamellae will certainly impair gaseous exchange.

2 illus, 19 ref

013390   Karthickeyan S M K;Gajendran K (Dep STOPWORD Anim Genet STOPWORD Breed, Madras Vet Coll, Chennai-600 007, Email: kannikarthi@yahoo.co.in) : Indigenous technical know-how in the healthcare of domestic animals. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2005, 4(4), 462-3.

The Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) in utilizing some of the commonly available ingredients of plants used by the rural farmers have been observed and documented along with their scientific rationale in the treatment of many diseases affecting livestock.

4 ref

013389   Kamboj A;Ravi Kiran;Sandhir R (Dep STOPWORD Biochem, Punjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014, Email: rkiran@pu.ac.in) : Isolation and characterization of carbofuran degrading bacteria from soil. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 355-8.

Aim of the work was to isolate, identify and characterize carbofuran (2,3-dihydro-2,2-dimethyl-7-benzofuranyl N-methyl carbamate) degrading bacteria from carbofuran preheated rice-field soil by enrichment on the insecticide as the sole source of carbon and nitrogen. A bacterium, designated as strain N-2 capable of utilizing carbofuran as the sole source of carbon and nitrogen was isolated and characterized taxonomically as Bacillus brevis. N-2 hydrolyzes the carbamate ester linkage of the carbofuran to give carbofuran-phenol (2,3-dihydro-2,2-dimethyl-7-benzofuranol). Carbofuran and carbofuran-phenol were analyzed by HPLC and TLC to show that after 24 hours percentages of carbofuran and carbofuran-phenol were 17.94% and 82.06% as compared to 82.06% and 17.94% respectively on the 0 day. This strain has been shown to harbour a single plasmid.

4 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

013388   Jeyaprakash K;Chinnaswamy P (Dep STOPWORD Biochem, Dr.N.G.P.Arts & Sci Coll, Coimbatore-641 035) : Hepato protective effects of spirulina and LIV-52 against cadmium induced toxicity in albino rats. J Ecotoxic envir Monit 2005, 15(4), 333-9.

Hepatoprotective effects of spirulina and Liv-52 on cadmium induced toxicity in albino rats was studied. Oral administration of Cadmium Chloride (CdCl₂) (10 mg/kg body weight/day) for 30 days resulted in a significant increase (P<60>0.01) in the level of Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase(ALP), bilirubin, creatinine, total proteins globulins and a significant decrease (p<60>0.01) in the level of albumin in the serum of rats, when compared to normal control. Administration of either Liv-52 alone or in combination with spirulina produced a well pronounced hepatoprotective effect (97%) in cadmium intoxicated rats. Although administration of spirulina alone caused an appreciable hepatoprotective effect (89%) in cadmium intoxicated rats, further study is needed with increased doses to evaluate its optimal effect.

3 tables, 22 ref

013387   Jeyachandran R;Anand S P (Dep STOPWORD Biotechnol, St. Joseph's Coll, Tiruchirapalli-620 002) : Sensitivity of bacterial pathogens on the medicinal plant Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Hook. F. and Thomson. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 555-7.

Aqueous, ethanol and chloroform extracts of Tinospora cordifolia leaves and stems were investigated individually for in vitro antibacterial activity by disc diffusion method against Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, Enterobacter faecalis. Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and Serratia marcescens. The highest antibacterial activity was found in ethanolic leaf extracts. Its showed the greater activity against E. coli and Proteus vulgaris and satisfactory results against other test bacteria. The preliminary results of the study indicate that the leaf extracts have potential of antibacterial activity.

1 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

013386   Jain M D;Ali Y A (Dep STOPWORD Microbiol, R.L.T. Coll of Sci, Akola, Maharashtra) : Statistical and microbiological studies on foliar deformation in Pongamia pinnata (Linn.) found in Akola city. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 537-9.

Pongamia pinnata, an ornamental and shade tree possesses various chemotherapeutic values so, observed as an important medicinal plant. Other than pests infestation, leaf deformation and gall formation on leaves of Pongamia pinnata due to microorganisms is comparatively a less studied aspect. It was studied for one year on Pongamia pinnata trees in Akola city. The total number of leaves from 50 branches representing 10 trees from different areas was found to be ranging from 2500 to 3321 and number of gall bearing leaves ranged from 8% to 49% of total leaves. Gall bearing leaves were found much less in number during April to June whereas October to March period showed great increase in gall formation on leaves. Thus it was found that low temperature favours gall formation on leaves. When the transverse sections through healthy leaf and through gall were observed and compared, a distorted anatomy within gall was observed. The bacterium isolated from gall was found to be a Gram negative, rod-shaped, non-sporulating, motile organism growing as circular, non-pigmented colonies with copious extra cellular slime production on nutrient media. It is an organism growing optimally at about 25°C to 28°C.

1 illus, 1 table, 6 ref, 2 pho

013385   Hosamani N;Vidyasagar G M (Pl Path STOPWORD Fungal Biotechnol Lab Dep STOPWORD Bot, Gulbarga Univ, Gulberga-585 106, Email: gmvidyasagar@rediffmail.com) : Isolation of keratinophilic fungi from cultivated and non -cultivated soils of Bidar, India. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 501-4.

Investigations were conducted to asses the ecological factors governing distribution of keratinophilic fungi in cultivated and non-cultivated soils of Bidar district in Karnataka, India. Samples were collected from different places of Bidar district. A total of 28 fungal species belonging to 20 genera were isolated from both cultivated and non-cultivated soils. Of these, 25 fungal species were isolated from cultivated soils, 23 fungal species from non-cultivated soil samples. Soils were nearly neutral to weakly alkaline with high content of organic carbon, sulphate, nitrate calcium and magnesium.

3 tables, 21 ref

013384   Horth L (Sect STOPWORD Evolution STOPWORD Ecology, Univ of Calif, Davis 1 Shields Avenue Davis, CA 95616 USA, Email: lhorth@odu.edu) : Melanism and melanocortin-1 receptor mutations in vertebrates. Proc Indian Natn Sci Acad-Pt B 2004, 70(5-6), 499-515.

Melanin-or black pigmentation- is one of the most widespread and important pigments in nature. It results in the dark colouration that is found in most insects and vertebrates, and can markedly affect fitness. A classic example of adaptive melanism involves the dark, patchy or spotted pigmentation observed in many Lepidopteran species - like the peppered moth - in Great Britain during the Industrial Revolution. A vertebrate example of adaptive melanism involves the protection afforded to humans from cancer-inducing ultraviolet radiation - particularly at or near equatorial latitudes - by dark skin coloration. Recently, through the use of molecular genetic techniques, point mutations in the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) that are associated with phenotypic colour change have been identified in several vertebrate species. Unlike most mutations, melanism is often inherited as a dominant trait that results from a single mutation in the MC1R gene sequence. In some cases, the same nucleotide substitution is associated with colour change in multiple taxa. In the few cases where allele origin is addressed, nucleotide substitutions associated with melanism appear to be recently derived. A review of the most recent molecular studies on MC1R is presented. Where possible, parallels are drawn between different taxa regarding mutational location at the nucleotide and structural level. Future directions of research are suggested. These include additional assessment of other known genes involved in melanin production, evaluation of gene expression data, and evaluating the role of natural selection in the maintenance of melanic mutants in nature.

4 illus, 147 ref

013383   Gursharan Singh;Dahiya N;Hoondal G S (Dep STOPWORD Microbiol, Panjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014, Email: ineetudahiya@yahoo.com) : Optimization of chitinase production by Serratia marcescens GG5. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 383-5.

Chitinase producing Serratia marcescens GG5 was isolated from decomposed stalks of mushroom. Maximum chitinase production (0.8 U/ml) was observed in minimal medium having 2% swollen chitin after 96 hours of incubation at 30°C and 150 rpm. The enzyme activity was detected only when the bacterium was grown in the medium containing chitin or fungal cell wall. Soluble starch (0.5%), arabinose (0.5%) and Mucor rouxi cell wall (0.2%) enhanced the chitinase production by 30%, 12% and 87.5% when used with swollen chitin in production medium.

3 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

013382   Gupta M C;Sharma L L (Dep STOPWORD Ent, SKN Coll of Agric, RAU, Jobner-303 329) : Phytoplankton in Amarchand reservoir. J Inld Fish Soc India 2005, 37(1), 53-9.

Distribution (spatial and temporal) of phytoplankton in Amarchand reservoir was studied during December 1990 - November 1991 to assess the trophic status. The Reservoir supported low phytoplankton population. The seasonal abundance of phytoplankton ranked in the following order: winter <62> summer <62> monsoon; the maximum density was in November (av. 173 to 459 cells ml^-1). Thirty four species were recorded in the following order of dominance : Chlorophyceae (14), Myxophyceae (10), Bacillariophyceae (8), Xanthophyceae (2). Phytoplankton population was limited probably by low concentration of orthophosphate and grazing by zooplankton. On the basis of qualitative and quantitative observations with regards to phytoplankton, their vertical distribution, absence of algal blooms except in winter and presence of desmids (Tabellaria), the reservoir can be considered as oligotrophic.

6 tables, 27 ref

013381   Gondaliya S B;Pathak S J (Dep STOPWORD Biosci, Saurashtra Univ, Rajkot-360 005) : Isolation of textile dyes decolorizing microbes and their optimization of culture conditions. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 545-53.

Efforts were made to isolates indigenous microbes from the textile dye contaminated site. A total of 35 strains of organisms were isolated based on colonies and morphological charactreristics and were primary screened for their ability to decolourized the textile dye Remazol magenta HB under static culture conditions in presence of three different nutrients in minimal salt medium. Primary screened out 10 isolates were further screened for decolourisation ability against sixty different commercial textile dyes and the most potent six isolates have been further studied for their specific requirements to obtain maximum declourization capability in cultured condition. Results of dyes acted by the isolates were observed that the Iso-32 strain has completely decolourized maximum number of dyes i.e. thirty one dyes followed by Iso-26 showed twenty nine days and other four stains acted on more than twenty days. Most potential of these six strains Bio-1 to Bio-6, were subjected for optimization of influences of various nutrient ingredients supplements such as carbon sources, nitrogen sources and nutrient and/or growth factors. Results were found that in presence of the yeast extract, beef extract, multivitamin solution and riboflavin individual in minimal salt media showed maximum near about to 100% decolourized within 24 hours of incubation at 30°C temperature under static condition. In case of inorganic nitrogen sources conclusive results were seen with ammonium sulfate, di-ammonium hydrogen phosphate and ammonium chloride, whereas, nitrate and nitrite salts of ammonia, the process of decolourization was very less (10% to 46%), suggesting that NO₃ or NO₂- might have been adverse effects on decolourisation. Among the various sugars tested at varies concentrations for their effect on dye decolourization by the six isolates glucose, sucrose, lactose, and mannitol were showed maximum at about 0.5% concentration except Bio-6, which required 1.0% to get maximum decolourisation.

1 illus, 6 tables, 17 ref

013380   Ebtekar M (Immunology Dep, Sch of Med Sci Tarbiat Modarres Univ, Tehran, Iran) : Dioxins lead to suppression and remodeling of the immune response. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 337-42.

Recent studies on the immunological consequences of dioxin contamination and exposure indicate that these compounds and specifically 2,3,7, 8-tetra chlorodibenzo-p-dioxin activates the aryl hydrocarbon receptor on lymphocytes. This activation results in an array of effects on T, B and APC cells, biological mediators of the immune response and thereby results in a suppression or remodelling of the immune response. Review attempts to shed light on the recent research developments in this field and to provide insight into the vast and long term health consequences of persistent organic pollutants.

^iia41 ref

013379   Dixit P;Mathur P K;Agarwal A K (NO, , Maya Sadan, Sarai Dubey, Opposite Gandhi Park, Aligarh-202 001) : Population dynamics of soil microflora as affected with eucalyptus plant floral reflux amendment. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 473-8.

Eucalyptus plant floral reflux material was used to amend the cultivated agricultural soil in the concentration of 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 5.0 and 10.0%. Soil mycoflora of amended as well as control (natural) soils were studied after 10, 20 and 30 days of amendment. The soil mycoflora comprised of 30 fungal isolates; out of these 5 belonged to phycomycetes, 12 ascomycetes, 21 to deuteromycetes, 2 to mycelia sterilia and one unidentified fungal species of the genera arranged in decreasing order of number of species. Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillum, Mucor, Rhizopus, Chaetomium and Drechslera. A higher fungal population in amended soil was recorded earlier stage (10 days) of study, however the fungal population in amended soils declined with increase in incubation period (20 days, 30 days). The increased values of P, Na and K in amended cultivated soil indicated suitability of plant material for improvement of soil fertility. However, the values were decreased after an incubation of 20 days and 30 days. The correlation coefficients 'r' and their calculated 't' values were obtained between physico-chemical characteristics and microbial population in respective amendents.

8 tables, 29 ref

013378   Dhevi R;Sowmiya J;Chitra M (PG Dep STOPWORD Biochem, S T E T Women'S Coll, Mannargudi-614 001) : Contraceptive efficacy of Moringa oleifera bark extract on male albino rats. J Ecotoxic envir Monit 2005, 15(4), 317-25.

Crude aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera bark extract was investigated for its contraceptive efficacy effects in male albino rats. Fertility studies on oral administration of M.oleifera for 30 days resulted in difference of sperm count in 22.2, 38.8, 31.1 and 14.4, 40.8 and 17.4 percent for group II, III and IV of sperm motility, respectively. The protein, cholesterol, ACP.ALP and LDH of testis homogenate of control and the experimental rats (group II) showed the difference of 11.5, 21.8, 27.0, 3.8, 3.9 percent. In group III, the difference was found to be 18.6, 69.3, 70.2, 40.5, 16.0 percent. Group IV showed the difference of 8.72, 34.5, 40.5, 8.53, 6.96 percent, respectively. The total protein, cholesterol ACP, ALP, LDH of epididymis homogenate of control and the treated rats (group II) showed the difference of 41.8, 15.8, 44.4, 46.7, 64.0 and 28 percent. Histropathological studies indicate the wide spread damage in the germinal elements of testis and loss of lining of epithelial cells, disintegration and fibrosis were seen in epididymis. This study reflects anti androgenic and anti spermatogenic action of M. oleifera bark extract and it induces reversible sterility in dose and duration dependent manner.

8 illus, 8 tables, 24 ref

013377   Dhake A B;Patil M B (Post Grad Teaching Dep STOPWORD Biochem, L.I.T. Premises Nagpur Univ, Nagpur-440 033, Email: mbpatil1956@sify.com) : Production of acidic invertase by Penicilluim perpurogenum and effect of substrate feeding. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2005, 7(3), 445-8.

Penicillium purpurogenum was found to produce both extracellular as well as intracellular acidic invcrtases (β-fructofuranosidases). Optimum extracellular invertase production reached on day 4 and for maximum intracellular enzyme 5 days incubation time was required. Sucrose was used as a carbon source for invertase production. The optimum temperature for invertase activity was at 37°C. The invertase was stable in pH range of 3.5 to 6.0 and had an optimum pH at 4.5. Addition of vitamins to the growth medium has no significant impact on invertase production and supplementation of surfactants completely inhibited the growth of organism. Elevation in invertase production by Penicillium purpurogenum was observed when fresh substrate feeding was performed to the cultivation medium during incubation time.

6 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

013376   Das M;Chakrabartty P K (Dep STOPWORD Bot, Gurudas Coll, Narikeldanga, Kolkata-700 054) : Solubilization of phosphate by Bacillus sp. isolated from soil of Kolkata suburbs. Sci Cult 2005, 71(3-4), 97-9.

Three strains of phosphate solubilizing Bacillus were isolated from soil of suburban Kolkata. A parallel relationship between growth and phosphate solubilization and inverse relationship between culture pH and phosphate solubilization was observed. The solubilization of phosphate is thought to be due to production of acid in the medium. The strains solubilized from tricalcium phosphate between 25C-350 μg equivalent phosphorus per ml of culture.

1 illus, 15 ref

013375   Borges R M (NO, Cent for Ecological Sci Indian Inst of Sci, Bangalore-560 012, Email: renee@ces.iisc.ernet.in) : Ernst Mayr and evolutionary biology: polemics and synthesis*. Curr Sci 2005, 89(6), 947-54.

Attempt to explore the interactions between evolutionary biologist Ernst Mayr and other biologists in the process that has been called the professionalizing of evolutionary biology, and in the defence of organismal biology and of systematics. Author used the tool of quoting from original writings rather than paraphrasing then, since it is necessary to preserve the flavour of the arguments and controversies that Mayr was involved in, and that led to Mayr's role in helping to build the edifice of evolutionary biology as it is known today.

29 ref