001233   Bobji M S (Machanical Engng, Indian Inst of Sci, Bangalore-560 012, Email: bobji@mecheng.iisc.ernet.in) : Springing the trap. J Biosci, Bangalore 2005, 30(2), 143-6.

1 illus, 5 ref

001232   Bhasin M K (Dep of Anthrop, Univ of Delhi, Delhi-110 007) : Human population cytogenetics. Int J Hum Genet 2005, 5(2), 83-152.

Population cytogenetics is the study of the incidence of major and minor chromosomal aberrations in a rather random-sample of a population. The main aim of such type of studies had been to estimate the incidence of various chromosomal anomalies, their causation and the selective forces operating on persons with these anomalies. It is also stressed to study of different populations having contracts with environmental chromosome damaging agents, both mutagenic chemicals and irradiation effects (Court-Brown 1967). Quantitative karyotype term was assigned to the type of study in which observation of chromosomal anomalies and variant among normal healthy individuals were reported (Lubs and Ruddle 1970). Studies on human chromosomes had revealed that there was a great deal of polymorphism with certain pairs of complements. The variation in human chromosome can be divided in two parts : Major and cryptic aberrations which are associated with developmental malformation and reproductive wastages and Variations which seem not have phenotypic disadvantage. An attempt has been made to review the incidence of both of them investigated in various human populations.

^iia17 tables, 737 ref

001231   Bateson P (Sub-Department of animal Behaviour, Univ of Camb, High Street, Madingley, Cambridge CB3 8AA, UK, Email: ppgb@cam.ac.uk) : The return of the whole organism. J Biosci, Bangalore 2005, 30(1), 31-9.

The long trend towards analysis at lower and lower levels is starting to reverse. The new integrative studies must make use of the resources uncovered by molecular biology but should also use the characteristics of whole organisms to measure the outcomes of developmental processes. Two examples are given of how movement between levels of analysis is being used with increasing power and promise. The first is the study of behavioural imprinting in birds where many of the molecular and neural mechanisms involved have been uncovered and are now being integrated to explain the behaviour of the whole animal. The second is the triggering during sensitive periods in early life by environmental events of one of several alternative modes of development leading to different phenotypes. A renewed focus on the whole organism is also starting to change the face of evolutionary biology. The decision-making and adaptability of the organism is recognized an important driver of evolution and is increasingly seen as an alternative to the gene-focused views.

72 ref

001230   Bankar J T;Deshmukh A M (P.G. Dept. of Microbiology, Y.C. Coll of Sci, Karad-415 110) : Bacteriological characteristics of drinking water from public places in Satara district, Maharashtra. J Aquatic Biol 2004, 19(2), 1-6.

Investigation was carried out with seven drinking water samples collected from different public places in Satara district (Maharashtra). The samples were tested for presence of enteropathogens and prevalence of drug resistance among them. Different enteropathogens like Salmonella sp., Shigella sp., E.coli, Klebsiella sp. and Pseudomonas sp. were obtained from drinking water samples. Klebsiella was present in all water samples. Study of drug sensitivity pattern showed that these enteropathogens were resistant to different antibiotics like Carbenicillin Cephalexin. Cefoperaione, Gentamycin, Kanamycin, Lomefloxacin , Nalidixic acid, Norfloxacin, Nitrofurantoin and Ofloxacin. All enteropathogens were sensitive to Amikacin.

2 illus, 5 tables, 13 ref

001229   Balachandran G;Pillai P G;Mathew P M (NO, , Devika, Cheruvally Lane, Gandhipuram, Sreekariyam, Thiruvananthapuram-695 017) : Consanguinity studies in six communities of Kollam district, Kerala state. J Cytol Genet 2004, 5(2), 129-32.

Consangunity study was carried out in 6 communities of Kollam district (Kerala State). The most common pattern of related marriages was the one between first cousins followed by second cousin and first cousin once removed in the order of incidence. Uncle-niece alliance was virtually absent except for stray instances in the Viswakarma community. Out of 4 subtypes of IC, only the cross types were noticed of which the matrilateral cross type had an edge over the other. The frequency of consanguinity ranged from 15.11% (Nair) to 23.35% (Kurava). The mean Franged from 0.007158 (Reddiar) to 0.01607 (Kurava). The distribution of inbreeding rates showed an apparent gradient associated with the socio-economic and literacy status.

1 table, 10 ref

001228   Balachandran G;Mathew P M;Pillai P G (NO, , DEVIKA, Cheruvally Lane, Gandhipuram, Sreekariyan, Triuvananthapuram-695 017) : Chromosome study in an ectrodactylous fishermen kindred in Kerala. J Cytol Genet 2004, 5(2), 159-65.

Chromosome study including G-banding was carried out from peripheral leucocyte cultures in a few ectrodactylous and normal subjects of a fishermen kindred in Kerala aimed at screening for any chromosomal abnormality that could be associated with the deformity. Evidence from neither karyotype analysis nor G-banding patterns revealed any perceivable degree of chromosomal structural abnormality involving any of the chromosomes of the ectrodactylous subjects of the kindred.

8 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

001227   Abirami S;Vanniarajan C;Arumugachamy (Cent for Pl Breed and Genet, Tamil Nadu Agric Univ, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: cvhariny@yahoo.co.in) : Genetic variability studies in maize (Zea mays L.) germplasm. Pl Archs 2005, 5(1), 105-8.

Genetic variances, heritability and genetic advance were studied in forty maize genotypes based on the data recorded on twenty quantitative traits and five biochemical characters. For all the characters studied, genotypic variance were slightly higher man the genotypic variance. Genotypic and phenotypic coefficient variance was higher for total sugar content, plant yield, weight of the cob, oil content and ear height. Heritability estimates were high for all the traits investigated. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for number of grains per cob.

2 tables, 7 ref

000384   Yeole P M;Shrivastava V S (Cent for P G Res in Chem, G T P Coll, Nandurbar-425 412, Email: clayminerals@diffmail.com ) : Effect of pulp and paper mill effluent on the hematology and behavioral response of fish Channa punctatus. Pollut Res 2005, 24(1), 187-90.

The effect of pulp and paper mill effluent poisoning on haematology of different fish organs of a fresh water fish Channa punctatus has been studied. The concentration of Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb have been estimated in elementary tract, gills, kidney, liver and muscles of the fish into water ponds. Pulp and paper mill effluents of two different plants were added to these ponds. The concentrations of metals by digesting the tissue of organs of the fish were estimated by atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The increased concentration of these metals has been observed in these organs. The behaviour responses of the fish has also been observed.

3 tables, 18 ref

000383   Tripathi G;Rawal M;Kachhwaha N (Dep of Zool, Jai Narain Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 001, Email: drgst@rediffmail.com) : Effects of cypermethrin on mitochondrial density of selected tissues in fish. Biochem Cell Archs 2005, 5(1), 125-30.

The effects of cypermethrin on density of mitochondria in some tissues (liver, intestine, kidney, gill) of a freshwater catfish, Clarias batrachus, were investigated. The mitochondrial density decreased in response to increasing concentration of the toxicant. This suggests that cypermethrin reduces the aerobic capacity of fish.

12 illus, 16 ref

000382   Tripathi G;Rathore N;Kachhwaha N (Dep of Zool, Jai Narain Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 001, Email: drgst@rediffmail.com ) : Cypermethrin induced changes in density of golgi complex of a teleost. Biochem Cell Archs 2005, 5(1), 131-5.

Cypermethrin induced changes in density of Golgi complex were studied in the catfish, Clarias batrachus. There was a dose-dependent increase in the density of Golgi complex of liver, intestine, gill and kidney as compared to control. This suggests the possibility of pesticide related increase in secretory and lysogenic activities of cells..

12 illus, 14 ref

000381   Tripathi G (Dep of Zool, J.N.V. Univ, Jodhpur-342 001, Email: drgst@rediffmail.com) : Metabolic physiology and possible mode of action of pesticides: A recent approach at cellular and biochemical level in fish. Biochem Cell Archs 2005, 5(1), 1-10.

A large number of pesticides are used in agroenvironment. They are extremely toxic to nontarget species and pollute surroundings. Organochlorine, organophosphates, carbamate and pyrethroid insecticides poison cellular and biochemical machinery by inhibiting molecular function or depleting synthesis of metabolic enzymes and other macromolecules. Pesticide produce several ultrastructural changes in cells including loss of cristae which suggests energy depletion in aerobic and oxidative capacity of animal. Withdrawal of pesticides from surrounding environment may revert the physiological functions in most of the cases. Application of exogenous thyroid hormone may bring the metabolic activity to a basal level. Review of studies indicate pesticidal effects at some steps of information processing from gene to protein in a cell.

73 ref

000380   Sushama P R (Cytogenetics and Tissue Cult Laboratory, Dep of Bot, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: sushamapalaparty@yahoo.com) : In vitro somatic embryogenesis from seedling explants of bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Pl Cell Biotechnol molec Biol 2005, 6(1-2), 47-52.

A rapid highly repetitive and efficient protocol was developed for inducing indirect somatic embryogenesis using seedling explants of bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) viz., immature cotyledon, mature cotyledon, stem and leaf segments. Explants were cultured on MS semisolid medium with various concentrations of 2, 4-D and kinetin and the optimum treatment for the induction of somatic embryogenesis was MS+ 22.62μM 2,4-D+2 32μM Kinetin. All the explants gave a positive response. However, conversion of embryos into shoots was not observed. Embryos derived from immature cotyledon developed upto the cotyledonary stage. In the case of stem, mature cotyledon and leaf explants, the development of embryos did not progress beyond heart-shaped stage. In addition to the concentration of growth regulators, age of the explant also had an effect on embryogenic frequency.

1 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

000379   Sreekumaran Nair R;Paulmurugan R;Wilsanand V (Dep of Biol, PMT Coll, Melaneelithanallur, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu) : Genotoxic effects of commonly used pesticides of South India in human lymphocytes. Pollut Res 2005, 24(1), 7-12.

In the investigation an attempt has been made to study the genotoxic effect of commonly used pesticides of South India, like 2,4-D, lindane, sevin and phosphamidon, in the human lymphocytes by comet assay and chromosomal analysis. Human lymphocyte culture treated with lindane, 2, 4-D, lindane, sevin and phosphamidon, showed complete lysis at 40 μg/ml. At 20 μg/ml the percentage damage of DNA varied from 48 (2,4-D) to 14.37) phosphamidon when compared to control. The percentage of DNA damage for sevin and lindane being 31. Chromosomal aberrations observed include pulversation, ring formation, number variation and gap formations. The mitotic index induced by phosphamidon and sevin was very low i.e. 0.2 and 0.5 respectively when compared to 2, 4-D (1.5) and lindane (1.1). The percentage aberration induced by various pesticides ranged from 4 ± 1 (sevin) to 11 ± 1 (2, 4-D) when compared to the solvent control (2 ± 1) and plain control (1±0). The results highlight that 2, 4-D is capable of inducing higher DNA damage as well as chromosomal aberrations in human lymphocytes.

2 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

000378   Sinha S;Shrivastava V K (Endocrinology Unit, Dep of Biosci, Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal-462 026) : Dichlorvos induces changes in protein content, GOT, GPT, ACP and ALP enzyme activities in liver and kidney of male Mus musculus (P). Pollut Res 2005, 24(1), 153-6.

Fifteen sexually mature mice Mus musculus weighting about 30±5 g were divided into three groups of five each. Group I served as control which received mice feed and tap water, while the animals of Group II and Group III were exposed daily through drinking water with dichlorvos (pesticide) in a concentration of 1ml/lit. for 15 and 30 days respectively. The body weight along with protein content and some enzyme (GOT, GPT, ACP and ALP) levels were estimated in liver and kidney after 15 and 30 days. The body weight initially increased i.e. after 15 days but it decreased in later part i.e. 30 days of the experimental. The protein content, GOT and GPT levels significantly increased in liver and kidney after 15 and 30 days exposures. The elevation was more in 15 days as compared to 30 days. However, ACP and ALP activities were seen more in 30 days as compared to 15 days. These observations showed that dichlorvos modulate the enzyme activity which is duration dependent.

6 illus, 23 ref

000377   Singh H S;Singh K;Malti (Dep of Zool, Ch. Charan Singh Univ, Meerut-250 004, Email: hirdaya_singh@rediffmail.com) : Karyological studies of two species of a reptilian nematode, Thelandros Wedl, 1861. Biochem Cell Archs 2005, 5(1), 81-8.

The karyology of two species of nematode belonging to the genus Thelandros Wedl, 1861 was conducted. Chromosome sets within two species viz., T. micruris Rauther, 1918 and T.sceeratus Travassos, 1923, have been studied. The study reveals 2n=8 chromosome with one pair metacentric, two pair submetacentric and one pair subtelocentric chromosomes.

10 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

000376   Sheela Sasikumar C;Shyamala Devi C (Dep of Biochem, D.G. Vaishnav Coll, Arumbakkam, Chennai-600 106) : Effect of abana, a polyherbal formulation on platelet aggregation. Biochem Cell Archs 2005, 5(1), 105-8.

The focus of the investigation is to find out the effect of Abana, a polyherbal formulation on the inhibition of platelet aggregation induced by ADP and epinephrine and to assess the cardioprotective effect of Abana.

2 illus, 11 ref

000375   Shashikala C M;Shashidhara S;Rajashekharan P E (Dep of Pharmacognosy, Government Coll of Pharmacy, Bangalore, Email: shashee2@hotmail.com) : In vitro regeneration of Centella asiatica L. Pl Cell Biotechnol molec Biol 2005, 6(1-2), 53-6.

Tissue culture technique has been established as a useful ex-situ conservation strategy for endangered species. The paper describes in vitro regeneration of Centella asiatica L(Urb.) (Apiacae) a threatened specie and preliminary estimation of secondary cell constituents in methanolic extract of in vitro regenerated plants. Nodal segments were used as explants for in vitro regeneration on MS media supplemented with BAP (2.0mg /1)+NAA (l.0mg/1). In vitro rooting was induced when MS medium was supplemented with IAA (l.0mg/1). Thin layer chromatographic studies were carried out on methanolic extract of in vitro regenerated plant with reference standards of asiaticoside and madecassoside.

1 illus, 11 ref

000374   Saravanamoorthy M D;Ranjitha Kumari B D (Dep of Pl Sci, Bharathidasan Univ, Tiruchirappalli-620 024, Email: ranjithakumari2004@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of cotton yarn dye effluent on physiological and biochemical contents of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.CV. TMV-10) and green gram (Phaseolus radiatus L.CV.K1). Biochem Cell Archs 2005, 5(1), 113-17.

The effect of effluent on plant performance was studied based on the accumulation of biochemical components. The seed germination rate of green gram and groundnut was reduced with the increasing concentrations of dye effluent. Proline content was increased with increasing concentration of the effluent in both plants. Increase in amino acids, proteins and sugars and total lipids were noticed at 25% and 50% and were decreased with increase in the concentrations of effluent. Similarly, total lipid content initially increased and decreased at higher concentrations of the effluent. Similarly, in green gram total lipid total sugars and protein content increased initially and decreased at higher concentrations of the effluent but a decreasing trend was observed in groundnut in increasing of effluents concentrations.

2 tables, 17 ref

000373   Rongbai Li;Pandey M P;Sharma P (Guangxi Key Laboratory of Subtropical Bioresource Conserv and Utilizat, Guangxi Acad of Agric Sci, Nanning, Guangxi-530 007, China, Email: matappandey@rediffmail.com) : Inheritance of thermosensitive genic male sterility in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Curr Sci 2005, 88(11), 1809-15.

Thermosensitive genic male sterility (TGMS) in rice is a useful trait for exploitation of heterosis, especially of inter-subspecific kind using two-line system. Three pairs of independent recessive (tms) genes with additive effects were involved in TGMS expression in UPRI 95-140 TGMS. Expression of the trait in F₂ generation involving 44 different genetic backgrounds indicated monogenic (3F: 1S), digenic (15:1S) and trigenic (63F: 1S) inheritance with frequencies of 18.2, 52.3 and 29.5% respectively. No single pair of genes was capable of causing complete male sterility. Two pairs of major tms genes in UPRI 95-140TGMS, non-allelic to any of the known tms genes, were located on chromosomes 3 and 7, and tentatively designated as tms6(t) and tms7(t) respectively.

5 tables, 14 ref

000372   Rahdar M;Rafiei A;Jamshidian M;Hashemitabar M;Ghaforian M;Rasekh A (Dep of Mycoprasitology, Sch of Med, Jundi-Shapour Univ of Med Sci, Ahwaz, Iran) : In vitro production of IL₄, IL₅ and IL₁₀ in peripheral blood mono nuclear cell culture from human hydatidosis. Biochem Cell Archs 2005, 5(1), 29-36.

The role of cytokines in human hydatidosis (Echinococcos granulosus) was evaluated by immunoassay to determine the production of IL4, IL5 and IL10 in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) culture from 24 confirmed cystic Echinococcos patients and 15 normal human. Hydatid patients produced higher amount of IL4 and I15 secretion in cell culture which was stimulated by specific antigen. There was a significant difference( p<60> 0.0001) between two groups i.e. normal and patient group. However, there were not significant difference between two group when cell culture was stimulated by PPD (pure protein derivatives non specific antigen) and PHA (phytohaemaglotinin as mitogen). There was no difference in production of IL10 in cell culture when antigen or mitogen used. Both the groups secreted less amount of IL10. Specific antigen driven IL10 production was similar in both the groups. 25% patient showed eosinophilia in blood but there was no strong correlation between cytokines secretion and eosinophilia. The studies showed that Th2 cells and related cytokines such as I14, I15 and I110 are active in hydatid patients. All the patients had symptoms of disease pertaining to cyst location. It looks that Th2 cells promote sensitivity and protect parasite from invasion to immune system of the host. Thl /Th2 cells and related cytokines in hydatid disease help to treat hydatid disease specially in metastatic or relapse or inoperative cases by preventing or promoting specific cytokines. However, there is need to explore various cytokines production in hydatidosis.

4 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

000371   Prasad S M;Zeeshan M;Dwivedi R;Singh D (Ranjan Pl Physiol and Biochem Laboratory Dep of Bot, Univ of Allahabad, Allahabad-211 002) : Biochemical responses of Triticum aestivum L seedlings to nickel and cadmium. Biochem Cell Archs 2005, 5(1), 21-8.

Exposure of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seedlings to Ni and Cd treatments showed a differential response. Both the metals (0.1-4 mM) inhibited the seed germination in concentration dependent manner. At higher concentration 1, 2 and 4 mM, Ni and Cd caused substantial decrease in seedling length, fresh and dry mass of root as well as shoot and total chlorophyll content, while at lower concentration (0.1 mM) a stimulatory effect on these parameters were noticed in case of shoot. Both the metals at 0.1 mM concentration enhanced α-amylase synthesis and starch hydrolysis and thus, enhanced the seedling growth. Seedlings treated with 0.1 mM nickel exhibited greater activity of α-amylase, thereby a decreased dry mass of endosperm was observed. In contrast to this, at higher concentrations 1,2 and 4 mM of both the metals, a significant inhibition in the synthesis and activity of α-amylase caused reduced hydrolysis of starch resulting increased dry mass of endosperm. Findings clearly demonstrate that both the metals at higher concentrations differently affected the physiology and biochemistry of seedling's growth, as the synthesis of α - amylase was more inhibited by cadmium while in vitro a- amylase activity was strongly declined by Ni. Enhanced seedling growth at lower concentration (0.1 mM) suggests the possible use of these metals as micronutrients.

6 illus, 21 ref

000370   Prakash M G;Gurumurthi K (Div of Pl Biotechnology and Cytogenetics, Inst of For Genet and Tree Breed, Coimbatore-641 002, Email: prakash_g_nair@hotmail.com) : Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation and regeneration of transgenic plants in Eucalyptus tereticornis. Pl Cell Biotechnol molec Biol 2005, 6(1-2), 23-8.

Transgenic plants were regenerated from transformed embryogenic tissue of Eucalyptus tereticornis Sm. Friable nodular callus initiated from mature zygotic embryos on MS agar medium supplemented with 2 mgl^-1 NAA were transferred to MS medium containing 0.5 mgl^-1 BAP and active embryo masses were started to appear after 3-4 weeks. The embryogenic tissues were inoculated by pricking and cells of disarmed Agrobacterium strain carrying the beta-glucorinidase (uid A) and neomycin phosphotransferase II (npII) reporter genes on the binary vector pBI 121 were directed at the wound sites. After co-cultivation with Agrobacterium, the embryogenic tissues were transferred to selection medium containing Cefotaxime and Kanamycin. After one week on selection medium, histochemical assays showed extensive GUS positive activity zones in the transformed embryogenic tissues. Embryogenic callus with putative transgenic embryos were allowed to develop into rooted plants in MS medium containing 50 mgl^-1 kanamycin and 500 mgl^-1 cefotaxime. Further elongation of the regenerated transgenic plants was carried out on MS liquid medium containing 50 mgl^-1 kanamycin and 500 mgl^-1 cefotaxime. The transformation status was analyzed by growth in the presence of kanamycin, GUS assays and PCR amplification of the GUS and npt II gene.

29 ref

000369   Pothiraj C;Kirupalakshmi S;Balaji P;Vinodh R (P G Dep of Microbiology, V.H.N.S.N.College, Virudhunagar-626 001, Email: pothi2005@yahoo.com) : Production of fungal protein from Cassava peel by using Rhizopus stolonifer. Pollut Res 2005, 24(1), 83-6.

Cassava peel was readily degraded and utilized by a strain of Rhizopus stolonifer growing in a solid state fermentation. Maximum growth was observed at 40°C and was proportional to the degree of hydrolysis of the cassava peel. The yield of biomass as weight of dry mycelium from the reducing sugars of the peel was 55%. After third day of fermentation the peel contained 4.3% cellulose, 0.5% hemicellulose and the protein content had increased from 2.88% to 7.22%. These results suggest a possible economic value of cassava peel in the production of fungal biomass and feedstock.

3 tables, 21 ref

000368   Poorani J (Project Directorate of Biol Control (ICAR), Post Bag no.2491 H.A. Fm Post,Hebbal Bellary Rd, Bangalore-560 024, Email: j_poorani@lycos.com) : Notes on the coccinellidae (Coleoptera) of the Indian subcontinent, including new synonymies. J biol Control 2004, 18(2), 185-7.

Additions to and changes in the checklist of Coccinellidae of the Indian subcontinent, including new synonymies and distribution records, are listed. The following new synonymies are established (valid name first): Brumoides suturalis (Fabricius) = Brumoides kolhapurensis Sathe and Bhosale; Coccinella transversalis Fabricius = Coccinella madhuri Sathe and Bhosale = Coccinella bhuimungi Sathe and Bhosale = Coccinella yaminii Sathe and Bhosale; Coelophora bissellata Mulsant = Coelophora orientalis Sathe and Bhosale; Harmonia octomaculata (Fabricius) = Harmonia soyabinii Sathe and Bhosale; Propylea dissecta (Mulsant) = Horniolus mirajensis Sathe and Bhosale; Illeis cincta (Fabricius) = Illeis darbarii Sathe and Bhosale; Cheilomenes sexmaculata (Fabricius) = Menochilus tuljapurensis Sathe and Bhosale = Menochilus shivajensis Sathe and Bhosale = Menochilus kharipi Sathe and Bhosale; Synonycha grandis (Thunberg) = Coccinella yogini Sathe and Bhosale; Scymnus (Pullus) castaneus Sicard = Scymnus (Pullus) marathi Sathe and Bhosale; Scymnus (Scymnus) indica Sathe and Bhosale (not Scymnus indicus Weise, 1908) = Scymnus (Scymnus) nubilus Mulsant; Stethorus indira Kapur = Stethorus guangxiensis Pang and Mao; and Platynaspis bimaculata Pang and Mao = Platynaspis kapuri Chakraborty and Biswas.

18 ref

000367   Narinder Kaur;Gupta A K (Dep of Biochem and Chem, Punjab Agric Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: nkaur@rediffmail.com) : Signal transduction pathways under abiotic stress in plants. Curr Sci 2005, 88(11), 1771-80.

All abiotic stresses reduce plant growth and yield. The products of stress-inducible genes which could be directly protecting against these stresses include the enzymes responsible for the synthesis of various osmoprotectants like late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins, antifreeze proteins, chaperones and detoxification enzymes. Another group of gene products involved in gene expression and signal transduction pathways includes transcription factors, protein kinases and enzymes involved in phosphoinositide metabolism. Te signal transduction pathways involving mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK) under osmotic/oxidative stress have been discussed. Studies indicate that in addition to connections between MAPK modules used by osmotic stress and ROS signalling, there is also specificity in the individual pathways. The role of external stimuli and of IP3 as a second messenger in releasing Ca⁺² from cellular stores has been reported. Interaction between phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C activity and IP3 level has been indicated. Abiotic stresses and ABA biosynthesis suggested connection between cold, drought, salinity and ABA signal transduction pathways. Calcium-dependent signalling that leads to LEA type genes and salt overly sensitive signalling that result in ion homeostasis has been discussed. Crosstalk among various transduction pathways under abiotic stresses in regulation of metabolism has been reviewed.

6 illus, 109 ref

000366   Kumari Jaysree P;Thulaseedharan A (Biotechnology Div, Rubb Res Inst of India, Kottayam-686 009, Email: kumarijaya@rubberboard.org.in) : In vitro germination of hevea somatic embryos : effect of cytokinins. Pl Cell Biotechnol molec Biol 2005, 6(1-2), 61-4.

A successful procedure for somatic embryo germination and plant regeneration from immature anther derived callus of RRII 105, a high yielding clone of Hevea brasiliensis, has been described. Of the four cytokinins (BA, ZEA, KIN, TDZ) tested, TDZ at 0.25 mg/l concentration was found to be superior for embryo germination as well as plant regeneration response followed by BA and ZEA. On medium supplemented with KIN, maximum response occurred with 2.0 mg/l however, the response was found to be low compared to BA and ZEA. Initial growth of plants in terms of height, shoot length and number of leaves was found to be higher for TDZ than plants derived with BA and ZEA.

7 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

000365   Kavyashree R;Gayatri M C;Revanasiddaiah H M (Dep of Bot Tissue Cult and Cytogenetics laboratory, Bangalore Univ, Bangalore-560 056, Email: gayatrimc@hotmail.com) : In vivo regeneration of apical bud syn seeds of mulberry (Morus indica L.). Pl Cell Biotechnol molec Biol 2005, 6(1-2), 69-72.

Syn seeds were successfully produced by encapsulating non-embryogenic propagule apical buds excised from aseptic shoots of mulberry variety-S₅₄ (Morus indica L.). The syn seeds were sown under non-aseptic conditions in petridish containing different combinations of soilrite mix fortified with half strength Murashige and Skoog's (MS) nutrients to study their response on in vivo regeneration. In the investigation, it was found that peat : perlite : vermiculate (1:1:1 v/v) is the best soilrite mix for in vivo germination (92%) of syn seeds when compared to other combinations tried. The plants retrieved from the syn seeds were successfully established in soil with 90% survival frequency.

1 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

000364   Ghosh M;Das S K (Dep of Fishery Biol and Resources Mgmt, West Bengal Univ of Anim and Fishery Sci, Mohanpur, Nadia-741 252) : Effect of dietary protein levels on the growth of Anabas testudineus (Bloch) fingerlings. Indian J Fish 2004, 51(4), 425-30.

Fingerlings of Anabas testudineus (initial average weight 8.36 to 8.65g) were fed with four isocaloric diets having protein contents of 30 (diet P30), 35 (diet P35), 40 (diet P40) and 45% (diet P45). Each treatment was continued in duplicate for a period of 35 days. The diet P40 exhibited highest growth of 79.64% weight gain with FCR of 3.25 and it was significantly higher (P<62>0.05) than those of diets of P30 (weight gain 46.17% and FCR 3.86) and P35 (weight gain 57.22% and FCR 3.66). There was no significant difference in weight gain of fish with diets P40 and P45. Similar results were observed in specific growth rate of fishes. Protein efficiency ratio was maximum of 0.968 with diet P40. Feed efficiency ratio declined with increasing dietary protein level. The results indicate that the diet P40 containing 40% protein was best suitable for growth of fingerlings of Anabas.

2 tables, 27 ref

000363   Dixit M;Mittal B (Dep of Genet, Sanjay Gandhi Postgrad Inst of Med Sci, Lucknow-226 014, Email: balraj@sgpgi.ac.in) : Frequencies of CETP gene TaqI B and D442G polymorphisms in North Indian population. Curr Sci 2005, 88(12), 1973-6.

In the study it has been analysed the frequencies of TaqI B and D442G polymorphisms of CETP gene and lipid profile in 315 healthy individuals from North Indian population. For genotyping, PCR was followed by restriction digestion with TaqI enzyme. Frequencies of B1B1: B1B2: B2B2 genotypes were 25.4% : 54% : 20.6% for TaqI B polymorphism. The study showed that B1B1 genotype frequency is lower and B1B2 frequency is higher than other populations. D442G polymorphism was absent in North Indian population. In spite of high frequency of B2 allele, the HDL-cholesterol levels were low. In conclusion, CETP TaqI B polymorphism shows distinct pattern of genotype and allele frequency in North Indians and D442G mutation is absent. However, CETP TaqI B polymorphism was not found to be associated with circulating lipid levels.

3 tables, 28 ref

000362   Dabir P;Dabir S;Krithika K N;Reddy M V R (Dep of Biochem and J.B. Trop Dis Res Cent, Mahatma Gandhi Inst of Med Sci, Sevagram-442 102, Email: mvrreddy_wda@sancharnet.in) : Cloning and characterization of a small heat shock protein cDNA clone of Wuchereria bancrofti. Curr Sci 2005, 88(12), 1962-6.

A 426 bp cDNA encoding a predicted small heat shock protein (smHSP) was isolated from Wuchereria bancrofti lambda zap L₃ cDNA expression 1ibrary immuno-screening with microfilaremic sera. The open reading frame of the cDNA clone encodes a predicted protein of 142 amino acids (aa), which had high sequence identity with other nematode smHSPs. The homologous regions conserved in several different nematode species reflect its importance in parasites that require mammalian host as a part of their development. SmHSPs and alpha-crystallin constitute a family of related molecular chaperons that exhibit striking variability in size ranging from 10 to 43 kDa. The cloning has been described and characterization of this cDNA clone encoding predicted 15.5 kDa smHSP of W. bancrofti.

3 illus, 1 table, 38 ref

000361   Chauhan D K;Ruhela S;Rastogi B;Khare A K (Dep of Zool, Meerut Coll, Meerut-250 004) : Haematological and biochemical changes in cat fish Clarias batrachus carrying parasitic infection of Procamallanus. Biochem Cell Archs 2005, 5(1), 11-20.

The study includes haematological and biochemical responses such as TEC, Hb, TLC, PCV, MCV, MCH, MCHC, serum total protein, serum glucose, serum cholesterol, serum urea, SGPT and SGOT levels after 15 days and 30 days of post infection. The haematological parameters such as TEC, Hb, and PCV are decreased both the intervals of post infection. The TLC value increases significantly after the dose of infection in all the cases. The biochemical parameters such as serum glucose level, serum total protein and serum cholesterol level decrease after both interval of post infection. The serum urea, SGPT and SGOT level increase significantly after the dose of infection. The infected fish showed restlessness and reflecting respiration. All these haematological and biochemical values of the infected fish C. batrachus are suggestive of macrocytic anaemia, hepatic damage, renal failure and carcinoma.

13 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

000360   Balaramaswamy yadav;Padmaja V (Dep of Botony, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: vpadmaja4@rediffmail.com) : Plantlet regeneration through multiple shoot induction in Cajanus cajan (L.). Pl Cell Biotechnol molec Biol 2005, 6(1-2), 65-8.

A simple protocol was established for plantlet development through multiple shoot induction, elongation and their rooting from the mature seed explants of Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh cv. ICPL93115. Murashige and Skoog (1962) medium supplemented with 6-benzyl adenine at 5-10 mgl^-1 appeared to be adequate for inducing an average of 8-18 shoots per explant. However, increase in the number of shoots induced was associated with hinderance to their elongation. MS + BA (1.0 mgl^-1) promoted shoot elongation, while half strength MS medium with 1.0 mgl^-1 of IAA/NAA + 0.1 mgl^-1 of KN facilitated rooting.

2 tables, 11 ref

000359   Baig M M V;Awasthi R S (Dep of Bot, Yashwant Mahavidyalaya, Nanded-431 602, Email: mmvb@indiatimes.com) : Cellulolytic enzymes of Trichoderma harzianum: Optimization of culture medium and conditions. Pollut Res 2005, 24(1), 205-8.

A culture medium for a wild strain of Trichoderma harzianum Rifai isolated from sugarcane field was optimized for higher yield of cellulolytic enzymes. The components of the medium were found to affect considerably the production of the enzymes. The partially purified cellulose from the sugarcane bagasse was found to be the most suitable carbon source whereas soy peptone was the nitrogen source. The enzymes were found to have high hydrolytic activity against carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). It produced FPase CMCase and β glucosidase in CMC Peptone and Sugarcane waste medium as well. Enzyme production was related to the sporulation process, and was regulated by the concentration of readily metabolizable carbohydrate in growth medium. Enzyme production was higher in sugarcane agro-waste based medium than CMC containing medim. The enzme activity was optimal at pH 5.6-5.8 and at 45°C.

2 illus, 1 tables, 18 ref

000358   Arockiam J P;Maharaja S;Muruganandam M (Integrated Fish Cult, St Xavier's Coll, Palayamkottai-627 002) : Interaction between vitamin C and folic acid on growth performance and behaviour of broiler chicks. Biochem Cell Archs 2005, 5(1), 119-24.

Six experimental diets were provided with different level of supplementary folic acid and ascorbic acid. The experiment was conducted upto 4 weeks. The maximum body weight was observed in 300 mg ascorbic acid and 25 mg folic acid treatment It induces maximum growth rate of broiler chicks. In normal condition, growth of broiler chicks take 7 weeks for attaining 2 kg body weight but in this attempt, the broiler attained its growth one week in advance. So this level of supplementary ascorbic acid and folic acid can be recommended to farmers. Influence of dietary vitamin behavioural changes were observed. The birds which attained maximum weight has less alertness, moving and drinking behaviour where as lower body weight (5 mg folic acid /300 mg AA) broiler chicks had maximum rest and alertness. There is a relationship for its body weight and behaviour like in feeding, drinking, moving alertness and rest.

12 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

000357   Anilkumar M;Mathew S K;Mathew P;John S;Deepa K P;Kiran V S (Dep of Biotechnology Cell and Tissue culture Lab, St. Peter's Coll, Kolenchery, Ernakulam-682 311, Email: anilphd@hotmail.com) : In vitro shoot multiplication in Ocimum basilicum L.. Pl Cell Biotechnol molec Biol 2005, 6(1-2), 73-6.

Profuse callus initiation was obtained from internode and leaf explants inoculated on MS medium supplemented with 1 mg/l 2,4-D. Indirect organogenesis was observed from the leaf and internode explants inoculated on MS medium supplemented with 0.3-0.5 mg/l IAA and 3-5 mg/l BA. Multiple shoots were initiated from the shoot tip and nodal explants inoculated on MS medium fortified with BA or Kin alone or in combination. Maximum multiple shoots were obtained in MS medium supplemented with 5 mg/l BA and 10 mg/l Kin. The shoots obtained via direct and indirect organogenesis were further sub cultured on MS medium supplemented with 4 mg/l BA and 1 mg/l GA₃. Numerous shoots were obtained after repeated subcultures. Rooting was observed from the shoots in the regeneration medium. The plantlets on hardening showed 85% survival rate.

2 tables, 8 ref

024320   Zhu X I;Niu N;Liu Y;Du T;Chen D;Wang X;Gu H F;Liu Y (National Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, , 5 Dongdan 3 Tiao, Beijing-100 005, China, Email: liuyingpumc@yahoo.com) : Improvement of the sensitivity and resolution of PCR-SSCP analysis with optimized primer concentrations in PCR products. J Genet 2006, 85(3), 233-5.

2 illus, 12 ref

024319   Zebadul Karim A H M;Islam Z M Z A (Anthropology Dep, Rajshahi Univ, Rajshahi-6205, Bangladesh) : Indigenous survival mechanisms of the Sundarban mangrove forest people of Bangladesh: an analytical explanation on munda and mahato people. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 44-53.

Sundarban Mangrove Forest constituting the southernmost part of the Gangetic Delta, extends along the sea facing the Bay of Bengal from the estuary of Hooghly on the west of 24 Parganas (India) to the great river Meghna on the east of Bakerganj District (Bangladesh), where the joint flow of the Ganges and the Brahmaputra find their access to sea. It comprises a vast tract of forest and swampy land. Authorsdo not have any anthropological evidence whether these older tribes of tribes of the Sundarban still live there. But from our recent information, it is evident that two groups of tribal people named Munda and Mahato have been living in scattered villages of Koyra Thana in Sundarban. Except these official reports, Authorsdo not have any empirical data about the socio-cultural aspects of their life and living. This paper, therefore, attempts to know the ethnic background of the aboriginal people (Munda and Mahato) living in Koyra Thana of Khulna district and makes an assessment of their dependence on the Sundarban mangrove forests.

1 table, 16 ref

024318   Xiao H;Peng S L;Mo J M;Chen Z Q;Wu J R (South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou-510 650, China, Email: hlxiao@soil.gd.cn) : Relationships between the allelopathy and nutrients content in plant and soil. Allelopathy J 2007, 19(2), 297-310.

Allelopathy is related to stresses of environment including soil nutrients deficiency. The plant allelochemicals changes the soil nutrients concentration. On the contrary, soil nutrients concentration also influences the concentration of plant allelochemicals. Since the relationship between plant allelopathy and nutrients concentration is complicated, research results are often not consistent. This paper reviews the studies done on this relationship.

6 tables, 92 ref

024317   Vokou D (Ecology Dep, School of Biology, Aristotle Univ, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Email: vokou@bio.auth.gr) : Allelochemicals, allelopathy and essential oils: a field in search of definitions and structure. Allelopathy J 2007, 19(1), 119-34.

Concepts of allelochemicals and allelopathy are revisited and a more refined definition of allelochemicals is proposed. This new definition is applied in the case of essential oils. To assess the pervasiveness of the terms in the relevant literature, I make a quantitative survey of the distribution of essential-oil-related research efforts in different fields. I also review the current research trends on essential oils as allelochemicals mediating plant-plant, plant-animal, plant-microbe interactions and I discuss the role of essential oils in shaping interactions between aromatic plants and microorganisms in the Mediterranean environment. Research dealing with the biological activity of essential oils, though providing substantial information, often lacks coherence and structure. As for essential oils in the Mediterranean environment, though aromatic plants seem to have a competitive advantage, their role is far from clear.

4 illus, 2 tables, 72 ref

024316   Tiwari O N;Singh B V;Mishra U;Singh A K;Dhar D W;Singh P K (NO, Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, Takyelpat, Imphal, Manipur, Email: dollywattaldhar@yahoo.com ) : Distribution and physiological characterization of cyanobacteria isolated from arid zones of Rajasthan. Trop Ecol 2005, 46(2), 165-71.

Soil samples were collected from selected arid zones of Rajasthan, India, namely Achrol, Jaiselmer, Manwar and Pokharan. Studies conducted on the distribution indicated their ubiquitious occurrence and predominant presence of Nostoc species. Unialgal non-heterocystous forms namely Phormidium and Oscillatoria and heterocystous forms like Nostoc, Anabaena, Calothrix, Westiellopsis and, Chlorogloeopsis were isolated and purified. These isolates were characterized for chlorophyll content, specific metabolite content and nitrogen fixing ability. Phormidium species showed maximum chlorophyll accumulation in comparison to heterocystous forms. Anabaena sphaerica exhibited maximum level of soluble proteins. Non-heterocystous forms, like Phormidium and Oscillatoria, also accumulated high levels of soluble proteins. Heterocystous forms namely Nostoc, Anabaena and Westiellopis were more efficient to synthesize carbohydrates in comparison to nonheterocytstous forms. Anabaena sphaerica, an isolate from Achrol, showed highest nitrogenase activity. Calothrix species isolated from Manwar and Pokharan region showed remarkable potential for nitrogen fixation, although these were poor in terms of chlorophyll accumulation and soluble protein content.

1 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

024315   Tiwari A K;Agarwal A;Sunil Kumar;Tiwari S C (Regional Remote Sensing Service Centre, Indian Space Research Organis, , 4, Kalidas Road, Dehradun-248 001, Email: rrsscd@nde.vsnl.net.in) : Analysis of landuse and biomass in Khanda watershed, Garhwal Himalaya, using satellite remote sensing data. Trop Ecol 2005, 46(2), 253-63.

Forest biomass mapping and estimates were carried out for a watershed in Garhwal Himalaya using stratified approach. IRS-lB, LISS II data of May 1994 with four spectral bands of spatial resolution 36.25 m were used for forest type and crown cover mapping. The forest type-cum-crown cover map was used as a major base for forest biomass mapping, which was then integrated with 'crown cover-biomass model'. Stand biomass for each site was computed from ground inventory using mean cbh, density and generalized species and interspecies allometric equations. Stand biomass values were related to the crown cover through allometric equations. Using these equations and mean crown cover for each individual class, mean biomass was computed for various components. The total biomass for each forest type was computed by using mean values and the areal extent of the class. Of the total geographical area of 113.50 km², non-forested land occupied 54.1% area. Forest cover was distributed in five forest types and stratified into three crown cover classes ranged viz., 21-40%, 41-60% and 61-80%. About 6.8% of the forest area (i.e. 3.1% of total area) was under 61-80% crown cover. Crown cover of >60% was encountered only in mixed conifer forest. The forests with >40% crown cover occupied 78.2% of forest land (i.e. 35.8% of the total area). Total above ground biomass in entire study area including village woodlands was 1217.94X10³ t out of which 130.31x10³ t was in village wood-lands. Among different forest types maximum biomass was found in Pinus roxburghii forest (315.55xl0⁵ t).

5 illus, 9 tables, 40 ref

024314   Tecle E;Zielinski L;Kass D H (Biology Dep, Eastern Michigan Univ, Ypsilanti, MI-48197, USA, Email: dkass@emich.edu) : Recent integrations of mammalian Hmg retropseudogenes. J Genet 2006, 85(3), 179-85.

Retropseudogenes of the high mobility group nonhistone chromosomal protein genes have recently integrated into mammalian genomes on the basis of the high sequence identity of the copies to the cDNA sequences derived from the original genes. These include the Hmg1 gene family in mice and the Hmgn2 family in humans. Authorsinvestigated orthologous loci of several strains and species of Mus for presence or absence of apparently young Hmg1 retropseudogenes. Three of four analysed elements were specific to Mus musculus, two of which were not fixed, indicative of recent evolutionary origins. Additionally. Authors datamined a presumptive subfamily (Hmgz) of mouse Hmg1, but only identified one true element in me GenBank database, which is not consistent with a separate subfamily status. Two of four analysed Hmgn2 retropseudogenes were specific for the human genome, whereas a third was identified in human, chimpanzee and gorilla genomes, and a fourth additionally found in orangutan but absent in African green monkey. Flanking target-site duplications were consistent with LINE integration sites supporting LINE machinery for their mechanism of amplification. The human Hmgn2 retropseudogenes were full length, whereas the mouse Hmg1 elements were either full length or 3'-truncated at specific positions, most plausibly the result of use of alternative polyadenylation sites. The nature of their recent amplification success in relation to other retropseudogenes is unclear, although availability of a large number of transcripts during gametogenesis may be a reason. It is apparent that retropseudogenes continue to shape mammalian genomes, and may provide insight into the process of retrotransposition, as well as offer potential use as phylogenetic markers.

2 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

024313   Tambekar D H;Patil Y S (Microbiology P.G. Dep, Sant Gadge Baba Amravati Univ, Amravati-444 602) : Multiple antibiotic resistances indexing (Mari) of Escherichia coli from drinking water of saline tract of Vidarbha, Maharashtra. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2006, 5(3), 455-8.

Escherichia coli in drinking water, having potential for enteric diseases in human beings, were screened against 69 antibiotics to determine its multiple antibiotic resistances. A total of 290 water samples from various sources were analysed and 100 isolates of Escherichia coli, 47 from Akola district and 53 from Buldhana district, were identified and multiple antibiotic resistances were determined. All the isolates were resistant to azithromycin, aziocillin, ticarcillin, trimethoprim and vancomycin (MARI 1.0), bacitracin, ceftazidime, linzoid, metopenem, novobiocin, oxacillin, teicoplanin (MARI 0.9) and sensitive to amikacin, carbenicillin, fosfomycin and gentamycin. The MAR indexing of Escherichia coli provides more significant information on antibiotics resistance pattern of bacterial pathogens.

1 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

024312   Sur S (NO, , ) : Folk deities of Sundarban some observations. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 168-91.

Social experiences of sources are carefully retained in folk-culture. Magic power, which a community believes, brought success carefully in retaining the folk-rituals. The story of some grand success in the past is narrated in ritual ceremony every time. The deity believed to be involved in that process of victory is worshipped and glorified. This practice goes on even long after the then socio-economic background is changed and totally forgotten. Even then details of rituals are found carefully performed. Those rituals are then like 'living museum'. As a resident of a block here, which is adjacent to the jungle area, Authors was interested in the folk-life. The present paper is an attempt to understana the folk culture of Sundarbans through my life-long personal association with the area.

024311   Srivastava P;Sahay V (Anthropology Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad) : Traditional ecological knowledge vis-a-vis sustainable development in Suderbans. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 192-9.

From time immemorial, the people of Sunderban have developed extraordinary knack for and knowledge of their traditional ecology; and accordingly, managed their resources indigenously. As a result, in spite of being one of the most densely populated areas in the world, as also, in spite of indiscriminate deforestation in the region, they have maintained a balance between their needs and available resources. Every inch of land is therefore utilized; every drop of rain is preserved and utilized; every part of coconut and coconut trees are utilized; every straw of paddy is utilized. They know the nature of the sea, the timings of the tides and the waves and the current; they also know the nature of the man-eater tigers in the jungle. Therefore, despite living in extreme climatic conditions, they have managed to flourish not only their population, but distinct culture as well.

4 ref

024310   Soosairaj S;John Britto S;Balaguru B; Natarajan D;Nagamurugan N (Plant Biology and Plant Biotechnology Dep, St. Joseph's College, Tiruchirappalli, Email: pspsoosai@yahoo.co.in) : Habitat similarity and species distribution analysis in tropical forests of Eastern Ghats, Tamil Nadu. Trop Ecol 2005, 46(2), 183-91.

Sorenson simllary index and Coles association coefficient were computed to analyse the similarity between forest types and association between individual plant species in the Pacchaimalai hills of the Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu, South India. Sorenson index shows that the higher similarity existed between the evergreen and semievergreen, the semievergreen and dry mixed deciduous, the dry mixed, deciduous and the dry savannah with the dry deciduous scrub, the southern thorn scrub and the southern thorn-forests. Chi-square values are found to be significant between Santalum album with Dodonaea viscosa; Cycas circinalis with Cleistanthus collinus, Combretum albidum, Pongamia pinnata and Symphorema involucratum; Nothopegia colebrookiana with Tarenna asiatica; Pterospermum xylocarpum with Doryopteris concolor; Smilax zeylanica with Acacia torta; Canarium strictum with Aglaia lawii and Dicliptera cuneata; Cymbopogon citratus with Grewia hirsuta and G. tiliifolia. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence suggesting that many species of tropical trees are differentially distributed with respect to habitat variables, in this case to different forest types.

1 illus, 2 tables, 71 ref

024309   Sivalingam P N;Varma A (Advanced Centre for Plant Virology, Plant Pathology Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012) : PCR based diagnosis of begomoviruses associated with tomato lef curl disease in India. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2007, 16(1), 17-22.

Reports development of a set of common primers and four sets of virus specific primers to detect ToLCNDV, ToLCBV, ToLCGV and ToLCKV, which are associated with tomato leaf curl disease (TomLCD) in India. The primer sets were first validated by amplification of desired genomic fragments from the cloned genomes of the four begomoviruses and then were tested for the detection of these viruses in field samples collected from different locations in India. Of the 26 TomLCD samples tested by PCR, 22 tested positive with the set of common primers and 16 tested positive for the target begomoviruses. ToLCNDV was detected in four samples, ToLCBV in six, ToLCKV in four, and ToLCGV in five samples. This limited survey shows that ToLCNDV and ToLCBV are distributed in northern and southern India, whereas ToLCKV and ToLCGV have a wider distribution. Mixed infection by two target viruses was observed in three TomLCD samples collected from Maharashtra, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh; two of these samples were infected with ToLCKV, which is prone to recombination. The results of the study are indicative of association of uncharacterized variants or new begomoviruses with TomLCD in India, as (a) 27% of the samples found positive by the set of common primers did not amplify with species specific primers, and (b) 16% of the samples tested negative by PCR using common primers, although all the samples were collected from plants showing typical TomLCD symptoms. These plants might have been infected by some uncharacterized virus(es).

4 illus, 4 tables, 22 ref

024308   Sirmaci A;Duman D Akcayoz;Tekin M (Pediatric Molecular Genetics Div, School of Medicine Ankara Univ, Ankara-06100, Turkey) : The c.IVS1+1G<62> A mutation in the GJB2 gene is prevalent and large delections involving the GJB6 gene are not present in the Turkish population. J Genet 2006, 85(3), 213-16.

2 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

024307   Shen L;Lin W (Key Laboratory Biopesticide and Chemical Biol, FAFU, , Fuzhou, Fujian-350 002, C/O, Ministry of Education, China, Email: wenxiong181@163.com) : Effects of phosphorus levels on allelopathic potential of rice co-cultured with barnyardgrass. Allelopathy J 2007, 19(2), 393-402.

Two allelopathic rice cultivars [PI312777 and non-allelopathic Lemont from U.S.A.] were used as the donor plants and barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crusgalli L.) as the receiver plant. Each rice cultivar was co-cultured with barnyardgrass in hydroponic culture with low phosphorus level (0.5mg P/L). The PI312777 exposed to low phosphorus stress, suppressed the growth, reduced the protective activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes, but increased the free radical contents and membrane lipid peroxidation in barnyardgrass. The barnyardgrass's root activity and uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) was decreased, leading to lower dry weight in barnyardgrass.

5 illus, 26 ref

024306   Saraf M;Dhiman S;Dhandhukia P (Microbiology Dep, USSC, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad-380 009, Email: saraf@icenet.net ) : Growth promoting potential of new bacterial isolates singly and in combination of Trigonella sps. J phytol Res 2006, 19(1), 63-6.

Sixteen strains of Rhizobacteria belonging to Pseudomonas, Azotobacter. Azospirillum and Rhizobium were isolated and studied for their plant growth promoting potential singly and in different combinations on Trigonella foenum graecum. Coinoculations have resulted in increase in lateral roots and leghaemoglobin content of nodules. The SR-2 treatment containing Rhizobium sps., Bacillus sps. and Pseudomonas sps. seemed to be the best possible combination studied in comparison to other combinations. The concentration of soluble phosphorus also increased significantly upto 14.5 ppm (maximum) in the SR-2 treatment. Stimulation of vegetative growth parameters like root length, shoot length and number ofleaves was found to be maximum in the SR-1 treatment followed closely by SRª8 treatment. The role of Azotobacter and Azospirillum as combined biofertilizer was not found suitable. Another interesting observation was that the Rhizobium sps. (all four isolates) showed good nodulation and maximum availability of phosphorus in the soil and at the same time acted as a buffering agent for maintaining pH of the soil. However, the combination of 4 sps of Rhizobium, 5 sps of Pseudomonas and Bacillus each showed the maximum vegetative growth and lateral root formation. All the results were statistically analysed and values were found to be significant at P<60> 0.005.

4 tables, 21 ref