024305   Sakthivel P;Wang X;Gharizadeh B;Giscombe R; Pirskanen R;Nyren P;Lefvert A K (Medicine Dep, Immunological Research Unit, Center for Molecular Medici, Karolinska Institutet, S-17177 Stockholm, Sweden, Email: ann.kari.lefvert@cmm.ki.se) : Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the B7H3 gene are not associated with human autoimmune myasthenia gravis. J Genet 2006, 85(3), 217-20.

2 tables, 18 ref

024304   Saharan B S;Lovely (Microbiology Dep, Kurukshetra Univ, Kurukshetra-136 119) : Studies on antibacterial activity of selected ayurvedic medicines towards soil bacteria. Ann agric biol Res 2007, 12(1), 35-40.

Ayurvedic preparations used for gastric problems were subjected to detailed scientific investigations for their antimicrobial activity against various pathogenic microorganisms. Different isolates have shown varying degree of inhibitory efficacy. Twenty bacterial strains (A1 to A20) were isolated from the soil samples. Some Ayurvedic medicines (Pudin hara, Amrit dhara, Shankhbati and Triphala) were used. The maximum zone of inhibition (16 mm) at 100% concentration was observed incase of isolate A14. Isolates A4, A14, A15, A16 and A18 showed sensitivity even at 25% (v/v of Pudin hara). The isolates A11, A12 and A13 showed minimum zone of inhibition of 4 mm at 100% of Pudin hara. In case of Amrit dhara, the maximum zone of inhibition of 27 mm at 100% concentration was observed in case of isolate A20. It showed the sensitivity even at 25% concentration of Amrit dhara against all isolates. The minimum zone of inhibition (13 mm; 100% concentration, v/v) was shown against isolate All. Most of the isolates were sensitive to the effect of Shankhbati. The isolate A5 showed the maximum zone of inhibition of35 mm at 100% concentration. It was sensitive even at 25% of Shankhbati. On the other hand, the isolate A17 showed minimum zone of inhibition of 12 mm at 100% concentration. The isolate A1 showed the maximum zone of inhibition (25 mm) at original concentration of Triphala. The isolates include Gram positive rods (A1, A2, A3, A4, A5 and A6), cocci (A7, A8, A9, A10, A14, A15, A16 and A19) and Gram negative rods (A11, A12 and A13). The isolates A7, A8, A9, A10, A11, A12, A13 and A20 showed catalase positive test. Isolates A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, A9, A10, A14, A15 and A16 showed the liquefication of gelatin i. e. positive test. The bacterial isolates All, A12 and A13 showed positive test for indole production. The isolates A7 to A13 and A19 showed MR positive and VP negative. The isolates, namely, A14, A15 and A16 were found citrate positive. The most of the bacteria were sensitive to the effect of Ayurvedic medicines. Amrit dhara, Shankhbati and Triphala showed good inhibitory effect on soil isolates. While Pudin hara was comparatively less effective against the isolates.

5 tables, 3 ref

024303   Ravikumar M;Manjappa S;Kiran B R;Puttaiah E T (Environmental Science Dep, Bio-Science Complex, Kuvempu Univ, Shankaraghatta-577 451) : Blue green algae at Ayyanakere tank in Harapanahalli town Davangere district, Karnataka. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(1), 167-70.

Blue green algal diversity in Ayyanakere tank near Harapanahalli town of Davangere district, Karnataka was monitored for eight months from October 2004 to May 2005. A total of 6 species were recorded of which Aphanocapsa sp., Oscillatoria sp., Merismopedia sp., Spirulina sp., and Nostoc sp., were rarely found in this water body. While Arthrospira bloom was dominant throughout the study period.

024302   Rajamani M;Raghavendra N;Prasad N G;Archana N;Joshi A;Shakarad M (Biology Dep, Behaviour, Ecology and Evolution Laboratory, Poornapraina Institute of Scientific Research, P.O. Box No. 18, Devanahalli, Bangalore-562 110, Email: smallik@mail.jnu.ac.in) : Reduced larvel feeding rate is a strong evolutionary correlate of rapid development inj Drosophila melanogaster. J Genet 2006, 85(3), 209-12.

1 illus, 19 ref

024301   Raha M K;Bhui S (Anthropology Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata) : Tribal situation in Sunderban. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 26-43.

'Sundarbans', the largest delta in the Indian sub-continent, is not only a landmark of ancient Indian heritage but also mysterious by its name. Literal meaning of the Sundarban is 'beautiful forest'. This name could have been given by the local people because of the abundance of the Sundari tree (Heritiera minor) in the region. When Authorslook at the distribution map of different Scheduled Tribes, Authorssee that different Scheduled Tribes at present live in two districts, South and North 24 Parganas with variable population strength. The vast tract of the Sundarban has given shelter to a large number of the Scheduled Tribe population. Here in this deltaic region live 1,79,719 Scheduled Tribe population. This Scheduled Tribe population form 4.07% of the total Scheduled Tribe population of West Bengal. The tribal people were at the beginning nearly a century or so ago, brought to the Sundarban to work as labourers to the clear the virgin forests. They later on settled themselves in villages and started agriculture after acquiring cultivable land. Many of them even today have land and depend on agriculture. Those who were and still are landless,or marginal landowners, they also keep themselves engaged as laborers, daily or agricultural. Some of them are sharecroppers also. Modern education has given some of them chance to work in different public and/or private sectors or work as teachers in the schools or involve in petty business.

10 tables, 7 ref

024300   Paul R K;Chattopadhyay S;Batabyal S;Aich R (Veterinary Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Veterinary & Animal Science, West Bengal Univ, Animal & Fishery Sciences, Kolkata-700 037) : Polypeptide profiles of blood plasma, rete testes and epididymal fluids of Buck and Ram by SDS. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(1), 118-21.

Two adults healthy buck and ram were selected and 5 ml blood was collected from jugular vein, of each of them and mixed with 1% heparin and plasma was separated. Immediately animals were slaughtered and testes were taken out and kept in ice pack. Tyroide's solution (pH 7.6) was perfused and fluid was collected from rete testes, vas deferens and epididymis. Total protein concentration of these fluids was estimated by Lowry's method except blood plasma for which Biuret method was followed. One-dimensional SDS-PAGE was done for all the samples. Many polypeptides were common in different regions of the reproductive tract. A major polypeptide of 67 Kd was found in all the regions of both the species. A polypeptide of 25 Kd was found in cauda epididymis of buck but was absent in ram. Blood plasma contained two major proteins of 67 Kd and 25 Kd in both the species.

1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

024299   Palaniappan R M;Sivakumar S (Physics Dep, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608 002, Email: plrmpl@rediffmail.com ) : Distribution of aluminium on the selected organs of freshwater fingerlings Cirrhinus mriggala by ICP-AES and the efficacy of DFO. Bull pure appl Sci-Sect D 2006, 25(2), 89-92.

An attempt has been made to study the distribution of aluminium on the selected organs of the fresh water fingerlings Cirrhinus mriggala by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopic technique. Cirrhinus mriggala were exposed to acute and chronic concentrations of aluminium for 14 days (Acute) and 90 days (chronic). Highest aluminium accumulation was observed in muscle tissues and the lowest in the liver tissues. The accumulation pattern follows in the order : muscles <62> gill <62> kidney <62> brain <62> liver. Further the effect of desferoxamine (DFO) in reducing the body burden of Al in various organs is also attempted. Treatment of DFO shows a significant (25% to 75%) depletion of tissue aluminum. burden. The obtained result are discussed.

1 table, 12 ref

024298   Oyewole I O;Awolola T S (Basic and Applied Sciences Dep, Faculty of Science and Technology, Babcock Univ, Ilisan Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria) : Impact of urbanisation on bionomics and distribution of malaria vectors in Lagos, Southwestern Nigeria. J Vector Borne Dis 2006, 43(4), 173-8.

Longitudinal study was carried out to investigate the impact of urbanisation on bionomics and distribution of malaria vectors in Lagos, a mega city in Nigeria. Mosquitoes were collected indoors and outdoors using WHO standard techniques in the selected areas between January and December 2000. Specimens were identified using the mor phological keys and PCR assays. ELISA tests were used for Plasmodium falciparum sporozoite in fection. The Anopheles gambiae species-specific PCR identified 56% (435/777) of the An. gambiae s.l. as An. gambiae s.s. and 44% (342/777) as An. arabiensis. The molecular M and S forms represented 35.3 and 64.7% of the An. gambiae s.s. population, respectively. The An. funestus species-specific PCR identified 60% (239/401) of the An. funestus group as An. funestus s.s. and 40% (162/401) as An. rivuloruni. The biting activity of An. funestus s.s. both indoors and outdoors attained a peak at 0200 and 2200 hrs, respectively, with a significant increase in the "pre-bed time" collections indoors (χ² = 6.15, df = 1, p <60> 0.05) and outdoors (χ²= 6.28, df = 1, p <60> 0.05). The overall outdoor collection was significantly higher (χ² = 28.23, df =3, p <60> 0.05) than that recorded indoors. The overall sporozoite rates for An. gambiae s.s., An. arabiensis and An. funestus were significantly different in both localities (χ² = 0.58, df = 2, p <60> 0.01). Infection rates in both indoor and outdoor collections were also different statistically (χ² = 0.67, = 2, p <60> 0.01). Large number and species of anopheline mosquitoes collected in the study area may be associated with the availability of aquatic breeding sites. A phenomenon leading to an increase in man-vector contact and a high level of risk to the crowded urban population is observed.

2 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

024297   Naik R M (Biochemistry Dep, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri-413 722, Email: rajeevnaik2@rediffmail.com) : Mitochondrial complex I impairment and nitrate reductase activity in leaves of Nicotiana sylvestris. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2007, 16(1), 67-9.

Loss of major mitochondrial complex I subunit Nad 7 in the leaves of CMS II mutant of Nicotiana sylvestris caused increase in both in vivo and in vitro nitrate reductase activities and the per cent activation state of NR was also higher in CMS II as against wild type. The differences suggest a possibility for export of mitochondrial NADH due to impairment of complex I, a major and high affinity sink for NADH. Loss of complex I subunit also resulted in constitutive expression of alternate oxidase (Aox) thereby providing a mechanism for continuous supply of carbon skeletons required for nitrate assimilation. The possibility of close coordination between mitochondrial redox perturbation and nitrate reduction and its further assimilation is discussed.

^ssc1 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

024296   Nagarajan K;Yuvarani K E (Zoology Dep, Sri Vasavi College, Erode-638 316) : Influence of neem oil on histology of gills, intestine and retina of Indian major carp Labeo rohita. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2006, 5(3), 437-41.

Indian major carp Labeo rohita were exposed to different concentration of the neem oil (0.034mL/L, 0.34mL/L and 3.4mL/L) for the histopathological analysis of tissues like gills, intestine and retina. The histology of the tissues showed varied degrees of damage, which increases with increasing concentration of the neem oil.

3 illus, 8 ref

024295   Mishra R M;Gupta P (School of Environmental Biology, A.P.S. Univ, Rewa-486 003) : Frugivory and seed dispersal of Carissa spinarum (L.) in a tropical deciduous forest of Central India. Trop Ecol 2005, 46(2), 151-6.

Four species of birds (Carpodacus erythrinus, Passer domesticus, Pycnonotus cafer, Streptopelia decacto) have been found to feed the ripen fruits of shrub Carissa spinarum (L.) in a tropical deciduous forest of Chhuhia, Rewa (M.P.). Birds usually swallowed whole fruit and voided seeds either by regurgitation (P. domesticus) or defecation (C. erythrinus, P. cafer, S. decacto) beneath the canopy of perching trees and shrubs of the forest. Each frugivore consumed an average of 4.42 fruits during any foraging bout. The frugivbrous birds removed approximately 196 seeds per day per plant of the shrub within forest. Of the four birds, Pycnonotus cafer, P. asser domesticus and S. decacto performed much of potential seed dispersal events and proved themselves as principal dispersers of Carissa spinarum seeds in the Chhuhia forest.

3 tables, 47 ref

024294   Mishra B P;Tripathi O P;Laloo R C (Botany Dep, School of Life Sciences, North-Eastern Hill Univ, Shillong-793 022, Email: mishrabp111@yahoo.com) : Community characteristics of a climax subtropical humid forest of Meghalaya and population structure of ten important tree species. Trop Ecol 2005, 46(2), 241-51.

Study was conducted in a subtropical humid forest (sacred grove) at Mawnai, West Khasi hills district of Meghalaya. A total of 133 woody species (92 genera and 48 families) were present. Tree (gbh <62>15 cm) density (1256±64 individuals ha^-1) and basal area (42.8±3.9 m² ha^-1) were markedly high. Species richness index and diversity index were also high, while dominance index was low. Citrus medica (Rutaceae), the dominant species, was the only species exhibiting random distribution. All other species showed contagious distribution. Cryptocarya amygdalina, family Lauraceae, was the co-dominant species. Lauraceae (17 species) was the species rich family in the grove and exhibited maximum tree density and basal area. However, generic composition was highest (9 genera) in the case of Euphorbiaceae, which is the co-dominant family in the grove. Majority of the families were represented by single genus and single species. Log-normal dominance-distribution curves at the levels of species and family, and wide girth structure signify the complexity and stability of the community. Density-distribution and population structure of ten important tree species indicated preponderance of young trees (gbh 15-50 cm) suggesting high regeneration potential of these tree species.

4 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref

024293   Mehrotra N;Jadhav R N (NO, Himalayan Inst of Med Sci, Dehradun) : Effect of lorazepam on brain of rat in subacute doses. J Anat Soc India 2006, 55(2), 11-14.

Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine which acts on GABA receptor. Lorazepam was administered to 20 albino adult rats daily for 2 weeks in subacute doses (0.75 mg/kg body weight). An equivalent amount of vehicle was similarly injected to corresponding control group of 20 rats. After 2 weeks rats were sacrificed. On histological examination of brain of study group it was observed that pyramidal cells lost the shape, perivascular space increased with haemorrhage. disrupted ependyma and choroid plexus became hypertrophied. No such changes were found in control group of rats. Subacute single daily dose treatment produces so many histopathological changes in cerebral cortex which may be the basis for adverse drug reaction.

4 illus, 11 ref

024292   Mandal K (Anthropological Survey of India, , Kolkata) : Economic variabilty and change in Sundarban delta. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 151-56.

Sundarbans is the largest delta in the world, which is situated in the estuary region of the Ganges and Brahmaputra river. In the Sundarbans, rivers many time changed their courses, cyclones and floods have had an effect on the land constitution of the area, for which a correct figure of the earliest human habitations in the Sundarbans cannot be made. However, from the archeological evidences it seems that there was human settlement in Sundarbans in or around 300 B.C. to 1200 A. D. At many times population of the area is affected due to natural disasters, erosion and repeated pirate attacks. Before reclamation or just after the reclamation, forest was the main source of their livelihood. But depending on the land for their only economic resource has been totally broken down. In this paper an attempt has been made to see economic variability and change of people in Sundarbans delta.

024291   Lahariya C;Pradhan S K (Community Medicine Dep, Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi) : Emergence of chikungunya virus in Indian subcontinent after 32 years: a review. J Vector Borne Dis 2006, 43(4), 151-60.

Outbreak of chikungunya virus is currently ongoing in many countries in Indian Ocean since January 2005. The current outbreak appears to be the most severe and one of the biggest outbreaks caused by this virus. India, where this virus was last reported in 1973, is also amongst affected countries. Chikungunya virus has affected millions of the people in Africa and Southeast Asia, since it was first reported in 1952 in Tanzania. Even then, natural history of this disease is not fully understood. The intra-outbreak studies, point towards recent changes in the viral genome facilitating the rapid spread and enhanced pathogenecity. The available published scientific literature on chikungunya virus was searched to understand the natural history of this disease, reasons for the current outbreak and the causes behind re-emergence of the virus in India. The paucity of the scientific information on various epidemiological aspects of chikungunya virus threatens off an epidemic as control of spread of virus might be difficult in the absence of appropriate knowledge. There is an immediate need of the research on chikungunya virus, for an effective vaccine besides strengthening the existing diagnostic laboratory facilities. The current outbreak can also be taken as a lesson for establishment of a system for continuous surveillance of diseases, considered disappeared from the countries. The re-emergence and epidemics are unpredictable phenomena but the impact of such events can be ameliorated by appropriate knowledge and by being in the right state of preparedness.

1 table, 43 ref

024290   Kishor Mohan T C;Murugan K;Mohankumar C (Plant Biochemistry and Molelcualr Biology Lab, Botany Dep, University College, Thiruvananthapuram-695 034, Email: drtckishor@yahoo.co.in) : Purification and characterization of cinnamyl alcohol-NADPH-dehydrogenase from young fruit tissues of oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) tenera variety. J phytol Res 2006, 19(1), 5-9.

Cinnamyl alcohol-NADPH- dehydrogenase (CAD) the key lignifying enzyme in shell synthesis and fibre ring formation in oil palm - tenera fruits was extracted and purified by ammonium sulphate precipitation, followed by anion-exchange and gel filtration chromatography. The approximate molecular mass of the enzyme protein was estimated as 75KDa from the polypeptide pattern of denatured enzyme by SDS-PAGE. Two subunits of 40 KDa and 35 KDa were found as two prominent bands in the SDS - PAGE. The zymogram by native PAGE revealed two isozyme bands. The optimum pH was found to be 7.6. The purified enzyme expressed high specific activity (948.89 units/mg protein) and 10.68% recovery with a purification fold of 94.8. The Km values for the substrates cinnamaldehyde and NADPH were estimated as 430 μ and 425 μ M respectively. The high Km value for the substrate cinnamaldehyde clearly indicates the active role of CAD in shell synthesis and fibre ring formation in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) fruits tenera variety. The role of cinnamic acid (CA) as a precursor of lignin synthesis during fibre ring and shell formation was analyzed under RP- HPLC. It could be noticed that the concentration of CA and lignin formation during the development of the pericarp exhibits reciprocal relationship.

5 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

024289   Kannan N D;Kalaichelvan P T (School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Excellence in Genomic Scienc, Madurai Kamaraj Univ, Madurai-625 021) : Production of immunosuppressant drug cyclosporin a from Tolypocladium inflatum in presence of L-valine. Allelopathy J 2007, 19(2), 549-54.

Culture conditions for biomass, protein and cyclosporine A production by Tolypocladium inflatum were optimized. pH 6.0 and temperature 24°C-27°C significantly promoted the biomass and extracellular protein. Glucose and yeast extract were more effective carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively for biomass and extracellular protein production. Synthetic medium supplemented with L-valine promoted 30% increase of cyclosporin A than over the unsupplemented L-valine. It was observed that addition of L-valine favoured higher production of cyclosporin A compared to production method reported earlier.

2 illus, 11 ref

024288   Ilyas O;Khan J A (Wildlife Sciences Dep, Conservation Ecology Research Group, , AMU, Aligarh-202 002, Email: orus@sancharnet.in) : Assessment of tree mortality and post fire regeneration pattern in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kumaon Himalaya. Trop Ecol 2005, 46(2), 157-63.

After a severe summer forest fires in 1995 in part of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, tree mortality was quantified during post monsoon season of 1996 and pre-monsoon of 1998. A total of 100 sampling points were established randomly in severely affected oak forest for vegetation sampling. Tree layer was quantified in 10 m radius circular plots, while seedlings and saplings of various tree species were counted in 3 m radius concentric plots. Out of 1944 individuals of different tree species, 677 (34.8%) individuals were found dead.  The mortality was significantly higher than expected in Viburnum cotinifolium and Cornus macrophyla and significantly less than expected in Rhododendron arboreum and Lyonia ovalifolia whereas mortality in other species was in proportion to their availability. The mortality was significantly higher than expected in < 50 cm girth class. A total of 184 and 382 saplings were counted during 1996 and 1998 respectively while the corresponding seedling numbers were 465 and 601. The saplings of Quercus leucotrichophora and Lyonia ovalifolia increased significantly from 1996 to 1998. While among seedlings the number of Quercus leucotrichophora and Viburnum sp. increased significantly from 1996 to 1998. The post fire species composition at seedling and sapling stage does not indicate any substantial increase in contribution of Pinus roxburghii as a consequence of fire. However, change in contribution of other top canopy and understorey species is expected due to differential regeneration pattern of these species.

3 tables, 8 ref

024287   Hoagland R E;Weaver M A;Boyette C D (Southern Weed Science Research Unit, USDA-ARS, , Stoneville, MS 38776, Email: rhoagland@msastoneville) : Myrothecium verrucaria fungus: a bioherbicide and strategies to reduce its non-target risks. Allelopathy J 2007, 19(1), 179-92.

Studies were conducted on a fungi Myrothecium verrucaria (MV) strain, originally isolated from sicklepod (Senna obtusifolia L), that exhibits bioherbicidal activity against kudzu [Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi] and several other weeds. Treatments of MV plus the surfactant Silwet L-77 caused 100% mortality or control to kudzu seedlings under greenhouse conditions, and 90% to 100% control of older kudzu plants in naturally-infested and experimental kudzu plots, respectively. MV caused greater reductions of kudzu plant biomass production at 30 °C, compared to 20 °C or 40 °C, when tested in environmental chamber experiments. Responses of various non-target, young, woody plant species from several plant families to MV applications ranged from non-susceptible to moderately susceptible. Bioassays of MV on seed germination and early growth of sicklepod (Senna obtusifolia L.) and hemp sesbania [Sesbania exaltata (Raf.) Rybdb. Ex A.W. Hill] demonstrated that hemp sesbania was more sensitive than sicklepod to the fungus. Although MV possesses desirable bioherbicidal traits such as high virulence and the ability to control several species of weeds, this isolate also produces undesirable mycotoxins, i.e., trichothecenes. Research data are presented, as well as some discussion of future approaches to possibly reduce or eliminate these mycotoxins to develop a safe and efficacious bioherbicide.

4 illus, 2 tables, 53 ref

024286   Gurpreet Kaur;Harpreet Kaur (Zoology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : Dwindling birds population in Punjab. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(1), 9-13.

Bird population in Punjab is declining fast in the recent years. The possible reasons to this decline can be excessive use of pesticides in the field and poaching. A study was carried out in the field to know the species which have vanished or their numbers have decreased to near extinction. Ten species during this study have been found which need special care to bring them back to have proper ecobalance. Suggested suitable remedies for the protection of the birds and to help the farmers.

8 ref

024285   Gupta R;Bharti Prakash (Zoology Dep, Govt College, Ajmer, Rajasthan) : Biochemical changes in the haemolymph protein after administration of Terminalia arjuna bark extract in Periplaneta americana. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2006, 5(3), 429-31.

The protein content of haemolymph in Periplaneta americana was studied after administration of Terminalia arjuna bark extract. The protein level in haemolymph was measured after exposure to different concentrations of T. arjuna bark extract for 24, 48 and 72 hours. A gradual decline in protein content was observed after exposure to T. arjuna bark extract.

1 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

024284   Guha P K (Anthropological Survey of India, , Kolkata) : Impact of salinity on Sunderbans. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 62-75.

Soil salinity in West Bengal is mainly due to the inundation of tidal water in deltaic zone. The reclamation of these soils by removing soluble salts is a major management aspect. For management of salinity either the soils need drainage or by leading to maintain formerly salt balance in the soil profile. The saline soils of Sundarbans are responsible for the high plant mortality and often produce white salt crusts on the soil surface. The salinity of soil changes with the season. The present work on the effect of saline water on cultivable land of Sundarbans of South 24-Paraganas of West Bengal provides an interesting study, primarily from the population geographic point of view. Beginning from the geographical setting and occupational diversifications of the area the study includes the interpretation and analysis of the distribution, growth and size, their demographic and occupational characteristics.

11 ref

024283   Guangyan N;Fenglan L;Chen B;Song L;Peng S (State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Zhongshan Univ, Guangzhou-510 275, China, Email: blanple@yahoo.com.cn) : Allelopathic plants 21. Mikania micrantha H.B.K.. Allelopathy J 2007, 19(2), 287-96.

Mikania micrantha H.B.K. is one of the world's worst weeds. It has caused serious damage to natural ecosystems and plantation crops. The successful invasion of M. micrantha is due not only to its wide eco-physiological tolerance and strong reproduction but also to its allelopathic effects on neighboring plants This paper mainly reviews the research on M. micrantha allelopathy. This weed produces a variety of allelochemicals (phenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenes) that can be released by volatilization, lixiviation of aerial parts and decomposition of plant debris in the soil. M. micrantha had allelopathic effects on crops, weeds, co-occurring plant species, insects and pathogens. Its allelopathic potential is modified by environment factors and changes in plant tissues. Its allelopathic potential clearly facilitates its successful invasion.

1 illus, 1 table, 50 ref

024282   Dutta S K (NO, Govt. College, Haldia, West Bengal) : Tiger prawn seed (TPS) fishing: a new occupation in the Sundarban eco-region. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 157-67.

Right from the beginning of human settlement, fishing was an important occupation of human society. The coastal area of West Bengal has two geomorphic units namely active delta and dead delta. Sundarbans are in the active portion of Gangetic delta. As the people have lost their original occupation (cultivation) due to natural calamities and soil erosion, they have almost been forced to take up this new occupation (Tiger Prawn Seed Collection) to earn their livelihood. Once they acquired the necessary skill for "tps'c, they could introduce further development in the fishing process. To study the socio-economic life of the people of Sagar Islands and to identify the social and psychological problems faced by them as a result of occupational changes due to natural calamity, the researcher initially approached all the villages in the coastal part and in the process made observations on the people, followed by application of unstructured open-ended questions about their occupation, background history and socio-economic condition. The present paper is an attempt to delineate the socio-economic aspects of the adopted occupation.

6 tables, 12 ref

024281   Dinda A (Anthropological Survey of India, , Kolkata) : Sundarban tiger reserve: perspectives in suntainable tourism. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 139-50.

Sustainable tourism is 'envisaged as leading to management of all resources in such a way that economic, social and aesthetic needs can be fulfilled maintaining cultural integrity, essential ecological process, biological diversity and life support systems. Based on Lesley France's (ibid.) strategic approaches to sustainable tourism and Indian National Ecotourism Policy, the present study has been done in Sundarban Tiger Reserve (STR), Gosaba and its adjoining regions. The biosphere reserve is one of the core resources for ecotourism, which is fragile ecosystem. Hence, decisions for the development of tourism in such areas have to be based on a thorough understanding of local resources, social and economic factors and other characteristics. Ecotourism in Biosphere Reserve promotes environmental education of the people by exhibiting nature parks and biodiversity. Awareness of natural heritage generates pride and curiosity, awe, pleasure and hopeful protectiveness towards nature. Ecotourism plays an important role in protection of STR and Conservation of natural diversity. Meeting tourism demands requires investment in infrastructure that may also meet community needs. Tourism planning must look ahead to infrastructure needs. There is little point in developing attractions if there is a deficiency in basic services that will lead to problems for residents or visitors. Therefore, the top priority for tourism development is road, health, security, comfort and convenience. Due to introduction of eco-tours, the new job opportunities are opened for the local people in different tourism sectors such hotels and lodges, restaurants and tea stalls, shops, tour operators and travel agents, tourist guides, transport, communication, etc. Sustainable development of local people occurs in this way.

4 ref

024280   Dhar R (Anthropological Survey of India, , Kolkata) : Theatre for development-communicating the conservation. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 76-94.

Concept of communication for development has emerged as an important tool for the participatory planning for the development. Widely known as Theatre for Development, it aims at disseminating the knowledge, raising awareness, changing attitude towards issues such as health, AIDS, sexually transmitted diseases, domestic violence and a variety of societal problems and the promotion of the development by encouraging the community participation. It reaches': the people as the content of the theatre is developed in accordance to the local needs and represents the local cultural identity. As a symbolic form of communication, this form of theatre engages its audience and serves as a means to raise awareness and later generates the discussion about its embedded subject. Its persuasive techniques are primarily directed towards holding the attention of the audience, making them simply to look, listen and enjoy the presentation and then the promotion of a particular position on the issues rose. The present paper examines the attempt in using a play as a medium to disseminate the conservation knowledge among the villagers in the fringes of Sundarban Tiger Reserve.

16 ref

024279   Desai S K;Mahadevan S (Molecular Reproduction Dep, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: mahi@mrdg.iisc.ernet.in) : Accumulation of Hns mutation specifically in stationary phase in an E. coli strain carrying an impaired rpoS locus. J Genet 2006, 85(3), 221-4.

2 tables, 11 ref

024278   Deng C L;Zhou J;Gao W J;Sun F C;Qin R Y;Lu L D (NO, College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal Univ, Xinxiang Henan-453 007, China, Email: iid5910@yahoo.com) : Assessment of genetic diversity of Lycoris longituba (Amaryllidaceae) detected by RAPDs. J Genet 2006, 85(3), 205-7.

2 illus, 12 ref

024277   Chakraborty S;Mukherjee S;Das Gupta S; Chattopadhyay S;Dube S N;Barua I;Ray M;Ray S (NO, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Nuclear variations of murine brain cells exposed to an antimalarial herbal extract. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(1), 194-6.

Papaya (Carica papaya), as reported antimalarial herb was tested for neuroactivity in mouse. Experimental mice in batches were treated orally with measured concentrations of papaya extract. Brain cells of mouse exposed to the extracts (aqueous and acetone) of papaya were screened for nuclear variations. Alterations in cell nuclei morphology like binucleation, micronucleation, pyknosis and hyperchromatia were identified and recorded after 48 hours exposure. The study shows the pharmacological potential of these formulations in altering brain cell morphology. The formulation might impose a possible intervention to the pathogenicity of the neuro-invassive malarial parasites in human system by a mechanism yet to be explored.

3 illus, 5 ref

024276   Boldrini K R;Pagliarini M S;Valle C B D (Cell Biology and Genetics Dep, Maringa State Univ, 87020-900 Maringa PR, Brazil, Email: mspagliarini@uem.br) : Abnormal timing of cytokinesis in microsporogenesis in Brachiaria humidicola (Poaceae: Paniceae). J Genet 2006, 85(3), 225-8.

1 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

024275   Bhattacharya S (South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and Peoples, , New Delhi) : Water world of the Sundarbans. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 112-25.

Country boats form the main part of the floating world of Sundarbans. In looking at their operations one can find some common characteristics that have great diversity. The way these are used can be discussed here with some features that are common to most operations. Through this paper an attempt has been made to look in to the aspects related to typology and technology involved in boat making and the way they are being utilized in the society using man power and money. Each place has its uniqueness in the typology of the boat, which partly depends on the local culture of boat making under the influence of environment and ecological conditioning. The present paper looks in to the world of boats that is prevalent in Sundarbans delta region.

7 ref

024274   Bhattacharya N (Anthrophology Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata) : Meendhara: an uprising profession of the Sunderbans. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 54-61.

Sundarbans has a very unique ecosystem in terms of flora and fauna. West Bengal is fortunate to have naturally available seeds of tiger prawns (Peneas monodon) in large quantities. Tiger prawn seeds are available throughout the year in varying quantities in some of the streams in the Ganga estuary system. The tiger prawn seed collectors are locally called the meendhara. Due to salinity of soil, agriculture is not always suitable in the area. Apart from this, over population and scarcity of agricultural land have given rise to the alternative occupation of meen catching called meendhara. Advent of tiger prawn seed catching has provided the local people with ready cash. The present work is an endeavour for the perception of the profession of tiger prawn seed catching from an anthropologist's point of view.

5 ref

024273   Bera G K;Mukhopadhyay A K;Sarkar A (Anthropological Survey of India, Eastern Regional Centre, , Kolkata) : Syncretism at Sundarbans: anthropological and linguistic dimensions. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 5-25.

Ecological and demographic features coupled with the history of reclamations of land lay the foundation for understanding Sundarbans in terms of its spatial and cultural growth. It was during the colonial period when reclamation of land started to make islands habitable for human settlement. The history of reclamation of land in Sundarbans with special reference to the trend of settlement is the fundamental guideline to understand the process of cultural syncretism. The effect of cultural mingling of different ethnic groups is well evident in the Bengali language, which is current in Sundarbans. This further unfolds a long history of migration and settlement of different categories of population in that area. The factors of human settlement in this part of the country coupled with the crises of survival have brought people together under a common canopy of syncretism, which borrows a myth from the twin faiths of Islam and Hinduism. The resultant force of this mythical spread has formed a common folk cult in this part of Gangetic delta, which has taken roots in all societies irrespective of their religious faith and occupational pursuits. However, there have been a differential rate of the degree of acceptance in different societies, if observed individually, but the uniqueness of this mythical spread is that it lies at the cognitive dimension of the people. Empirical findings suggest that this common cult may have originated in and around this region during the last century or so and had a sacred bond, which now takes the shape of a secular feature where the religious sacraments are guided in the principles of sacred-secular continuum.

5 tables, 11 ref

024272   Basu K (Anthropological Survey of India, , Kolkata) : Ecology and adaption: a study in the Sunderban biosphere reserve. Oriental Anthrop 2006, 6(1), 95-111.

Sundarbans, the largest delta in the Indian sub-continent, is not only a landmark of ancient Indian heritage but also mysterious by its name. Literal meaning of the Sundarban is 'beautiful forest'. This name could have been given by the local people because of the abundance of the Sundari tree (Heritiera minor) in the region. When Authors look at the distribution map of different Scheduled Tribes, Authors see thai different Scheduled Tribes at present live in two districts, South and North 24 Parganas with variable population strength. The vast tract of the Sundarban has given shelter to a large number of the Scheduled Tribe population. Here in this deltaic region live 1,79,719 Scheduled Tribe population. This Scheduled Tribe population form 4.07% of the total Scheduled Tribe population of West Bengal. The tribal people were at the beginning nearly a century or so ago, brought to the Sundarban to work as labourers, to the clear the virgin forests. They later on settled themselves in villages and started agriculture after acquiring cultivable land. Many of them even today have land and depend on agriculture. Those who were and still are landless or marginal land owners, they also keep themselves engaged as labourers, daily or agricultural. Some of them are sharecroppers also. Modern education has given some of them chance to work in different, public and/or private sectors or work as teachers in the schools or involve in petty business.

18 ref

024271   Alsaadawai I S;Al-Ekelle M H S;Hamzawi M K A (Biology Dep, College of Science, Baghdad Univ, Baghdad, Email: ibrahimalsadawi@yahoo.com) : Differential allelopathic potential of grain sorghum genotypes to weeds. Allelopathy J 2007, 19(1), 153-60.

Ten sorghum genotypes were screened for their allelopathic potential against weeds. Toxicity of root exudates and residues, persistence of residues phytotoxins in soil and identification and quantification of phytotoxins were determined. All sorghum genotypes significantly inhibited the growth of Lolium temulentum weed. Of the 10 genotypes tested Giza 15, Giza 115 and Enkath were the most allelopathic cultivars with growth inhibition of 71-75% in test weed. Rabeh was least allelopathic cultivar with 56% growth reduction. Field test revealed that residues of these cultivars significantly reduced the weed numbers (59-67%) and weed growth (58-66%). Toxicity of sorghum residues persisted in soil for 10 weeks with higher rate of residues in soil. Root exudates of Giza 15, Giza 115 were found more toxic to the test companion weed Echinochloa colonum than other cultivars. Six phytotoxins (phenolic acids) were identified in the residues. Giza 15 and Giza 115 accumulated up to 5-times more p-hydroxybenzoic acid than Rabeh cultivar, while, Enkath accumulated up to 3-times more than Rabeh cultivar.

5 tables, 15 ref

023274   Yoon S;Han S S;Rana S V S (NO, Korea Institute of Toxicology, 100 Jangdong, Yuseong, Daejeon, 305-343, Republic of Korea) : Health risk assessment of exposure to industrial solvents through molecular markers. J Ecophysiol occup Hlth 2006, 6(3-4), 89-104.

Gene expression profiling in animal models exposed to different industrial solvents offers a promising tool for investigating the molecular mechanisms involved in occupational diseases and identifies the candidate genes. Each individual solvent produces unique expression pattern on the array, distinct from the profiles generated by other compounds. They may be treated as reliable markers of their early effects. Furthermore, the the of microbes in determining their toxicity seems to be a normal approach. Since many of the compounds are carcinogenic, the role of genes in cell proliferation, neoplastic growth and other metabolic pathways needs further attention. The application of toxicogenomic data in health risk assessment has led to skepticism in certain stake-holders. Premature use of high throughput data could have dire consequences. Nevertheless, there appears to be a general agreement that toxicogenomics will play a larger role in regulatory decision making. This review provides latest information on molecular markers of exposure to major industrial solvents.

^iia2 tables, 1 illus, 115 ref

023273   Verma K S;Maini H;Shrivastava P;Verma P (Biological Science Dep, Aeroallergens and Immunology Laboratory, R.D. Univ, Jabalpur-482 001) : Evaluating poultry workers susceptibility against fungal aeroallergens using anderson and rotorod sampler. J phytol Res 2006, 19(1), 15-18.

Assessment of airborne fungi was done in intramural and extramural environment. Fungal spores were trapped using Anderson two stage sampler and Rotorod volumetric sampler. Poultry feedsamples were also analysed through baiting technique of two selected poultry farms. The dominant cultures identified were Aspergillus fomigatus (16.49%) and Aspergillus flavus (12.14%) in Anderson sampler while Aspergillus niger (11.3%), Aspergillus flavus (10.5%) and Rhizoyus sp. (10.5%) were obtained from baiting technique. Aspergilli group (23.3%), Alternaria sp. sp. (11.3%) and hyphal fragments (7.3%) were found dominant in Rotorod volumetric sampler. Twenty workers were tested for Skin Prick Test with antigen of Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus fumigatus out of which 30% were found positive with Aspergillus flavus and 15% with Aspergillus fumigatus. Than antibodies of allergenic workers was checked for IgG level using ELISA techniques. IgG level of workers was very low in case of 31-70 years of age group. Among the sites the F cal value obtained is 237.5. The degree of freedom is 9.28 that is higher than the calculated value means their is acceptance of alternative hypothesis.

3 tables, 3 illus, 22 ref

023272   Vasanthi H R;Charles Dorni A;Vidyalakshmi K S;Rajamanickam G V (Centre for Advanced Research in Indian System of Medicine (CARISM), SASTRA Deemed Univ, Thanjavur-613 402) : Free radical scavenging and antioxidant activity of a red alga Acanthophora spicifera - relation to its chemical composition. Seaweed Res Utilis 2006, 28(1), 119-25.

Dietary antioxidants from plants are believed to help in preventing a: number of diseases through free radical scavenging activity. In view of the continued screening of seaweeds of the Gulf of Mannar for biological activity, Acanthophora spicifera. one of the most common species along the Mandapam coast was identified to study the free radical scavenging and antioxidant activities by in vitro methods. The percentage inhibition of lipid peroxides and the nitric oxide radical scavenged was found to be 58.59% and 82.28%, respectively, whereas the total antioxidant activity was found to be 2342.26μ g/g as compared to the standard Vitamin E. The total phenolic content was found to be 86.23 mg/g of dried algae. The antioxidant activity is probably due to the presence of the natural antioxidants such as Vitamin A, E and C in the algae and the secondary metabolite such as polyphenols. HPTLC fingerprinting was done to findout the distribution of phytoconstituents in the algal extract used for anti oxidant studies.

1 illus, 2 tables, 29 ref

023271   Suneetha D R S;Arundhati A;Seshagiri Rao G (Biochemistry Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Morphological variations and tumorigenesis in N. Glauca X N. Langsdorffii hybrid and enhanced growth response under DNA hypermethylated conditions. J phytol Res 2006, 19(2), 251-9.

Neoplastic growth was repeated at the time of flowering from N. glauca x N. langsdorffii, the interspecific genetic tumorous hybrid of Nicotiana. The progeny of the hybrid plants behaved differently under different set of environmental conditions i.e., they showed segregation for tumorous and nontumorous plants when grown under green house conditions but developed variable levels of morphological aberrations in roots, leaves, stem and reproductive behavior under field conditions. Further, the percentage of plants that produced tumors are more after flowering than the plants before flowering and as the plants grew older many of the plants turned tumorous. Since variations are caused by changes in the levels of DNA methylation due to changes in the environment, the response of the seed and leaf discs to cefotoxime, an antibiotic known to cause genome wide hypermethylation in Nicotiana tabacum was studied. Seed treatment resulted in early tumor expression and led even to death of the plants whereas the treated leaf discs showed early growth response than their controls under culture conditions. These results coupled with 5-azacytidine treatment experiments were considered for explanation. The changes in regulation pattern of DNA methylation in hybrids when compared to parents may be responsible for tumor induction and phytohormone independent growth.

3 tables, 7 illus, 22 ref

023270   Subhalakshmi T;Mishra N K;Pan S (Plant Pathology Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal-741 252) : Effect of some herbicides on the growth and sporulation of two fungal biocontrol agents. J mycopathol Res 2006, 44(2), 275-78.

Some commonly used herbicides viz., Alachlor 50% w/w. Butachlor 50% w/w, Pendemethalin 50% w/w and Glyphosate 50% w/w on the growth and sporulation of Trichoderma and Gliocladium spp. was studied. The results revealed a significant variation in the effect of these chemicals on the radial growth in terms of per cent reduction in growth of the antagonists. It was further observed that all the herbicides were more or less compatible with the antagonists up to certain concentrations with glyphosate showing more promising effect.

2 tables, 8 ref

023269   Sivakumar N;Sundararaman M (Microbiology Dep, Srimad Andavan Arts and Sci Coll, T.V. Kovil, Tiruchirappalli-620 005) : Effect of different seaweeds as a dietary supplement on growth and survival of Penaeus monodan. Seaweed Res Utilis 2006, 28(1), 175-82.

Dry powder of four seaweeds viz, Chondrococcus hornemanii (SW-l ), Padina tetrastromatica (SW-2), Lobophora variegata (SW-3) and Dictyota alternaria (SW4) were used as dietary supplement separately for shrimp feed formulations and data on shrimp growth and survival rate, proteins and lipids levels were calculated. From the results, 5% supplementation of Chondrococcus hornemanii showed higher growth followed by Dictyota alternaria, compared to control The mortality rate was higher in animal fed with control feed (33.33%). Interestingly 90.33% of shrimp survival was accounted only in the animal fed with SW-l feed. Higher body protein was recorded in animal fed with SW4 feed. This preliminary study gave useful information on nutritive shrimp feed production.

4 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

023268   Sivakumar N;Sundararaman M (Microbiology Dep, Srimad Andavan Arts and Sci Coll, T.V. Kovil, Tiruchirappalli-620 005) : Cyanobacterial abundance in shrimp culture pond in Chidambaram and Cuddalore regions, Tamil Nadu. Seaweed Res Utilis 2006, 28(1), 49-54.

Deals with the physicochemical condition and cyanobacterial abundance and diversity in 14 tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon culture ponds at Chidambaram and 13 ponds at Cuddalore region of Tamilnadu. Among the 27 samples, cyanobacterial abundance varied from 41 cells ml^-1 to 410 cells ml^-1 in Chidambaram region and 20 cells ml^-1 to 370 cells ml^-1 in Cuddalore region. The dominant genera of cyanobacteria in majority of the ponds studied were Phormidium, Oscillatoria, Synechocystis, Synechococcus and Microcystis. Other genera of cyanobacteria such as Chrococcus, myxosarcina, Dermocarpa, Gloeocapsa, Calothrix, Arthospira, Trichodesmium were recorded relatively in minimum number. Cyanobacterial abundances depended on the physiochemical nature of the culture pond.

4 tables, 12 ref

023267   Shetty N J;Zin T;Minn M Z;Juanita S (Centre for Applied Genetics, Bangalore Univ, Jnanabharathi Campus, Bangalore-560 056, Email: shetty_nj@yahoo.co.in) : Insecticide susceptibility studies in 30 strains of Anopheles stephensi liston (A malaria vector) to DDT, Malathion and carbofuran and 23 strains of Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) vector for dengue and chikungunya) to DDT and neem. Pestology 2007, 31(2), 38-43.

Insecticide susceptibility studies were carried out for thirty strains of Anopheles stephensi using DDT, malathion and carbofuran insecticides and twenty-three strains of Aedes aegypti by applying DDT and neem in our laboratory. The susceptibility tests were conducted by using larvae of the above strains by applying standard larval test procedures of World Health Organization. The values of LC₅₀, LC₉₀ and resistance ratio for each one of the strains of the above said species were calculated. The LC₅₀ values ranged between 0.0714 mg/l to 0.4471 mg/l, 0.2765 mg/l to 1.0294 mg/l and 0.3515 mg/l to 0.7879 mg/l for DDT, malathion and carbofuran respectively in Anopheles stephensi whereas the values ranged between 0.0015 mg/l to 0.0963 mg/l and 0.1755 mg/l to 0.3594 mg/l to DDT and neem respectively in Aedes aegypti.

3 tables, 26 ref

023266   Seth S;Chadha N K (Applied Psychology Dep, Vivekananda College, Univ of Delhi, , Email: Ageism : Its origins and effects) : 2005. 0019, 507-19, NULL.

Ageism

Along with race and gender, people commonly use ag

023265   Saraf M;Dhiman S;Dhandhukia P (Microbiology Dep, USSC, Gujarat Univ, Ahmedabad-380 009, Email: saraf@icenet.net) : Growth promoting potential of new bacterial isolates singly and in combination on 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., BacilIus 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 of leaves was found to be maximum in the SR-1 treatment followed closely by SR-8 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

023264   Sane A;Chandrasekar A (NO, Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Regional Station, Vittal-574 243, Email: anusane@yahoo.com) : Molecular characterization of cocoa (Theobroma cocoa L.) germplasm unsing RAPD markers. Pl Cell Biotechnol molec Biol 2006, 7(3-4), 151-4.

Forty Cocoa (Theobroma cacao) accessions obtained from Nigeria were characterized using 12 random oligonucleotide primers by RAPD analysis. The Jaccard's similarity coefficient estimated from 139 RAPD-markers obtained using 12 random primers. Cluster analysis using UPGMA method differentiated forty accessions into 3 clusters at 80% similarity level. Principal component analysis showed similar cluster pattern. Five accessions showed divergence.

2 tables, 1 illus, 11 ref

023263   Prasad B B;Das U C;Rajendra Bahadur Singh; Mishra A K (Zoology Dep, S.N.S. College, Motihari-845 401) : Correlation coefficient amongst physicochemical parameters and with the indices of community structure and primary productivity of Turkaulia lake (an eutrophic lake). Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2006, 76(Pt1), 89-97.

Correlation amongst physico-chemical parameters along with the indices of community structure and primary productivity of the selected lake (Turkaulia lake) revealed that temprature has significant and direct correlation with chloride, pH with DO and organic matters, DO with pH, Ca, Ca hardness, chloride with temperature and organic matters, total hardness with Mg, Ca hardness, Mg with total hardness, and organic matter with T.D.S. As regard the Physico-chemical factors in relation with indices of community structure, pH is significantly negative correlation with redundancy, DO with species diversity, but positive correlation with redundancy and concentration of dominance; carbonate alkalinity has positive correlation with species richness, Mg has negative correlation with species diversity but positive correlation with species richness, Mg has negative correlation with species diversity but positively correlated with redundancy and concentration of dominance; where as both Ca and Ca hardness are negatively correlated with NPP/GPP ratio.

4 tables, 3 illus, 32 ref

023262   Nandi N C;Roy M (Zoological Survey of India, , M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700 053) : Ecology and ecosystem services of some selected wetlands of Puruliya District, West Bengal. J envir Sociobiol 2007, 4(1), 83-91.

Three important wetlands of Puruliya district, West Bengal, viz., Indrabil near Indrabil Station, Saheb bundh of Puruliya town and Adra reservoir of Adra town have been selected and surveyed for ecological and hydrobiological study. These are freshwater wetlands and serve as important waterfowl habitats. Deals with physiographical features, vegetation profile, limnological conditions, faunal resources (177 species under 67 families) and ecosystem services of these wetlands. The ecosystem goods and services offered by these three wetlands are enumerated. Based on the bioindicator species that are pollution sensitive, pollution tolerant, pollution resistant, an average BMWP (Bio Monitoring Working Party) score has been determined for these three wetlands. In overall, these three wetlands are in moderate state of pollution and among them Indrabil is comparatively clean or less polluted.

5 tables, 30 ref

023261   Nambiar G;Pratheesh P V;Raveendran K (P.G. Studies and Research in Botany Dep, Sir syed Coll, Taliparmba, Kannur-670 142) : Pokkali associated marine fungi of north Malabar region of Kerala coastal waters. Seaweed Res Utilis 2006, 28(1), 55-61.

Salt tolerant varieties of paddy cultivation (Pokkali) in the coastal water bodies during monsoon months is a common practice in Kerala. After the harvest of the paddy, the dead remains of the paddy along with the drift and intertidal wood substrates entangled in this field are the best materials for colonisation of marine fungi. Three Pokkali cultivating sites were selected, wood substrates were collected during the middle of post monsoon and in the early month of pre monsoon season. Three collections were made from each location. The wood substrates were screened for marine fungi and the fungi isolated were listed. A total of 18 species of marine fungi were isolated during this study. Among the 18, nine were common in all the three locations, two were present only in two locations while seven marine fungi were found only at one place without any redundancy. Among the fungi isolated ten were Ascomycetes, one was Basidiomycete and the rest seven were Mitosporic fungi.

1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

023260   Murugan K;Kishore Mohan T C;Satheesh S L; Rajan S S (Botany Dep, Plant Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, College Univ, Thiruvananthapuram-695 034) : Nutritive and antinutritive characteristics of selected ethnic wild plants from South India. J phytol Res 2006, 19(2), 227-31.

Wild food plants in the westernghats of India contribute significantly to the diets of tribals, especially during the famine periods. The aim of the present study was to evaluate nutritive, antinutritive and mineral characteristics of four wild plants in south India viz. Solanum nigrum, Cissus quadrangularis, Bacopa monnieria and Tamarindus indica. They were analyzed for their content of moisture, fiber, "ash, protein, carbohydrates, minerals, composition of aminoacids, phytic acid, phenols and tannin. The proximate analysis of leaves included moisture 69 to 90.3%, total ash 13.2 to 19.2, and crude fiber 1.8 to 6.9 mg/g tissue. The total carbohydrates ranged from 35.5 to 68.6 and total protein 1.5 to 5.7 mg/g. All the four plants contained useful amounts of major nutrients nitrogen (1.05- 5.63%), phosphorus (0.133-029%), potassium (0.7-4.1%), calcium (0.19-4.2%), magnesium (0.45-0.62%), sulphur (0.157-0.44) and Ca/P ratio 1.2-18.5%. The elements such as iron (186-1100ppm), manganese (26- 242ppm), zinc (36- 55ppm) and copper.(35- 45ppm) were also present These data indicate that the wild plants contain useful amounts of various essential nutrients that could supplement the diets of populations inhabiting the remote part of the world. The percentage of essential aminoacids in each of the plant foods were comparable with those of an ideal protein standard established by the FAO. Antinutrient factors analyzed in these species are phytic acid, tannin and phenols. Phytate ranges from 0.47%-0.54% whereas tannin 0.08 mg/g tissue to 0.17 mg /g tissue and phenols 1.74 mg/g to 5.64 mg/g tissue. The value of antinutrient factors of the plants was lower than to the value proposed by World Health Organization.

2 tables, 3 illus, 19 ref