023259   Misra A J;Chaturvedi V B;Kataria M;Somvanshi R (NO, IVRI, Izatnagar-243 122) : Early biochemical changes in guinea pigs experimentally fed on Christella dentata (Forssk.) Borownsey & Jermy. Indian Fern J 2006, 23(1-2), 1-10.

Present study was designed to analyse the early biochemical effects of Christella dentata fern and ameliorative effects of aluminium silicate, etc. in guinea pigs. A total of 20 young male guinea pigs were divided into three groups. In Gr (I) I, 6 animals were fed normal ration and green grasses, served as control. In Gr II, 7 animals were fed normal ration and fresh-green Christella dentata fern @ 150g, served as positive control. In Gr III, 7 animals were fed ration containing 0.5% aluminium silicate-along with vitamins, medicinal herbs and fresh-green fern @ 150 g, served as treatment group. Experiment was terminated on 50 days post feeding (DPF). Increase in body weight in all the three groups was observed initially upto four week but after this, body weight was decreased in Grs II and III. On 50 DPF but increase was less in Gr III. SOD level in erythrocytes was significantly decreased in Grs II and III as compared to Gr. I. Catalase activity in erythrocytes was significantly increased in Gr II, whereas significantly decreased in Gr III as compared to Gr I. Significant increase in plasma fibrinogen in Grs II and III was observed. Ceruplasmin revealed significant increase in Gr III and glucose level was significantly increased in Gr II in plasma. Significant decrease in serum total protein and globulin in Grs II and III while albumin level was significantly decreased in Gr II as compared to Gr I. Serum LDH showed significant increase in Gr II. Significant increase in lipid peroxidative damage was more in liver as compared to kidneys. Significant decreased was observed in SOD in both Grs II and III in liver while significant increase in Gr III was detected only in kidneys. Study indicated that feeding of C. dentata fern for 50 days induced sub-clinical toxicity, certain biochemical alteration in erythrocytes, plamsa and serum constituents and changes in tissue enzymes in liver and kidneys. The positive effect of aluminium silicate and other herbs were seen till first 4 weeks of experiment, which was confirmed by body weight gain and less pronounced biochemical changes in treatment Gr III. For effective treatment of C. dentata toxicity other liver-renal (kidney) combinations should be attempted.

6 tables, 5 illus, 33 ref

023258   Mishra A J (NO, , Pragya, A212 A Sushant Lok, Phase-I, Gurgaon (Haryana)) : Is a social security for the elderly enough? a study of the perception of old age home residents of Orissa. Indian J Gerontol 2005, 19(4), 463-76.

In post-independent India, social security for the aged was at the bottom of the government's priority. The traditional joint family system and strong values placed on virtues of old age was reason enough to accord less attention to the elderly. With the growth in the processes of industrialisation and urbanization and changes in family and kinship organization the rising inadequacy of traditional arrangements for providing security and services to the aged became apparent. The state supported social security measures became a desirable alternative. Realizing this, both central and state governments initiated some programmes for the elderly. But how far have these policies and schemes succeeded in 'ameliorating the condition of the aged? An attempt has been made to assess the effectiveness and the inadequacies of such policies. The perception of the old age home residents in Orissa towards the policies and schemes for the elderly constitutes another part of this paper. The findings from the study on old age home residents of Orissa shows that the residents are not aware of many of the schemes meant for the elderly. They also expressed a disinterest for the government programmes. The reasons for this can be located in the inability of the government to make its schemes known to the elderly population. Explores the reasons for this situation and makes some appropriate recommendations.

7 ref

023257   Kundu A;Chatterjee N C (Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Burdwan Univ, Burdwan-713 104, W. B.) : Cellulase and ligninase production by white root fungi associated with bamboo degradation. J mycopathol Res 2006, 44(2), 289-92.

Wood inhabiting basidiomycetes viz. Pycnoporus sanguineus and Flavodon flavus. which grow naturally on felled bamboo, were studied for their ability to produce cellulases, ligninases, extracellular phenolases and for their wood degrading ability. Cellulase enzyme activities varied widely in both the species. Cellulolytic enzyme activity remained always higher in bamboo tissue decayed by F. flavus (Exoglucanase - 0.1436 U/ml, Endoglucanase - 0.4037 U/ml. and β-glucosidase - 0.3501 U/ml) than the tissues decayed by P. sanguineus (Exoglucanase - 0.1287 U/ml. Endoglucanase - 0.3444 U/ml and β-glucosidase - 0.3365 U/ml). Exoglucanase activity was recorded to be significantly less than endoglucanase and β-glucosidase activities. Both the fungi were affirmative of extracellular production of phenol oxidases and were capable of degrading lignin preparation. Through the production of the aforesaid enzymes, both the fungi possess the capacity of degrading bamboo tissues efficiently as visualized by the dry weight loss of the wood tissue F. flavus was more efficient degrader of wood tissue than P. sanguineus having high cellulase activity.

2 illus, 19 ref

023256   Kuhls K;Schwenkenbecher J M;Schonian G (Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene, Charite Univ, Medicine Berlin, Dorotheenstr. 96, D-10117 Berlin, Germany, Email: gabriele.schoenian@charite.de) : Analysis of DNA microsatellite sequence variation as a useful tool for studying the epidemiology of old world leishmaniases. Sci Cult 2007, 73(5-6), 120-8.

Epidemiological study of leishmaniases are often hampered by lack of highly discriminatory methods allowing for large-scale typing of isolates. Multilocus Microsatellite Typing (MLMT) is reliable and fast, capable to address key epidemiological and population genetic questions. In Leishmania, microsatellite markers are species-specific and different marker sets needed to be developed for L. tropica and the L. donovani complex. Genetically isolated populations were identified that correlated with place and time of isolation, and with differences in biological behaviour of the parasites.

3 illus, 40 ref

023255   Kishor Mohan T C;Murugan K;C Mohankumar (Botany Dep, Plant Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Lab, College Univ, Thiruvananthapuram-695 034, Email: drickishor@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 40KDa 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 cinntamaldehyde and NADPH were estimated as 430 μM and 425 μM 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.

2 tables, 5 illus, 18 ref

023254   Kavitha A;Regini Balasingh G S;Palavesam A; Raj A D S (Botany and Research Centre Dep, Scott Christian Coll, Nagercoil-629 003) : Culture of diatom Navicula halophila for application as live feed in aquaculture. Seaweed Res Utilis 2006, 28(1), 171-4.

The pinnate diatom Navicula halophila is being used as live feed in aquaculture. In the study, this microalge was cultured in low cost less expensive nitrogen rich growth medium enriched by Azolla and Ulva extracts under laboratory condition. Cells harvested at stationary phase provided valuable information with high chlorophyll `a', carotenoid, protein, carbohydrate and lipid contents. This low medium contribute more production of proteinaceous unicellular alga, opening new vistas for supplementary food and feed production.

1 illus, 20 ref

023253   Kasture V (Zoology Dep, L.A.D. and Smt. R.P. College for Women, Nagpur) : Biodiversity and its hot-spots in India. Res J 2007, 3(1), 22-8.

Biodiversity is analyzed at three different levels which are diversity of biotic communities and ecosystems, diversity of species composition within a community and diversity of genetic organization within a species. Throughout the course of organic revolution, nature has maintained species diversity at an approximately even level. The warm and humid regions in between the Tropic of Cancer and Capricorn provided with rich, diverse plants and animals are called the megadiversity countries of the world. India also has a rich and varied heritage of biodiversity figured with two hot spots, the Western Ghats and Eastern Himalayas.

7 tables, 3 illus, 7 ref

023252   Kandwal M K;Joshi S P;Manhas R K;Lokender Singh (Botany Dep, Ecology Research Laboratory, D.A.V. (P.G.) College, Dehradun-248 001, Email: manhasrk@rediffmail.com) : Seasonal variation in community structure and invasion of aliens in a fresh water swamp at Golatappar, Dehradun, India. Ann For 2007, 15(1), 47-61.

Phytosociological studies were carried out in winter, spring and summer seasons to analyze the change in community structure and invasion of aliens in a freshwater swamp at Golatappar, Dehradun, India. The site was divided into five communities (C₁, C₂, C₃, C₄ and C₅) along the moisture gradient from mesic (C₁) to xeric (C₅) conditions. The results of these studies reveal that the indigenous plant species, like Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum, Calamus tenuis, Limnophila hypercifolia, Diospyros malabaricum and Oplismenus compositus, dominated the five communities. However, a number of aliens like Ageratum conyzoides, Eupatorium conyzoides, Adenostemma lauenia etc. with 3.53% to 31.93% contribution also inhabited these communities. The dominance of aliens was negatively associated with soil moisture, which means that they will dominate the swamp as soon as soil moisture decreases. The values of richness and species diversity (H') show that C₅ was the most diverse community and C₁ least diverse. C₂ community was most evenly distributed in winter and spring seasons whereas C₄ community in summer season. Dominance-Diversity (D-D) curve were plotted to show resource apportionment among different species within a community. D-D curves of the five communities in winter, spring and summer seasons revealed that C₁ community followed geometric distribution in all the seasons, C₃ and C₄ community followed log series distribution in winter and spring seasons respectively and rest of the communities followed log normal distribution in all the seasons.

4 tables, 4 illus, 36 ref

023251   Jeyaprakash K;Chinnaswamy P (Biochemistry Dep, Dr. N. G. P. Arts & Science College, Coimbatore-641 035, Email: jeypee5@rediff.comAlbino rat) : Antioxidant property of Spirulina and Liv-52 against lead induced toxicity in albino rats. J nat Remedies 2007, 7(1), 80-5.

Evaluate the antioxidant property of spirulina and Liv-52 against lead induced toxicity in albino rats. The antioxidant property of spirulina and Liv-52 was investigated by using lead acetate to induce toxicity in albino rats. The extent of lipid peroxidaiton in terms of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced glutathine (GSH) were assayed in the liver and kidney homogenate. Oral administration of lead (10mg/kg body weight/day) as lead acetate for 30 days resulted in a significant increase (P<0.001) in the level thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and a decrease in the level of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) when compared to normal to these parameters when compared to their individual administration in lead intoxicated rats. The result of the study suggested the antioxidant and protective efficacy of spirulina and Liv-52 against lead induced toxicity in albino rats.

3 tables 29 ref

023250   Gupta P K;Tiwari P;Gupta R (Zoology Dep, D.S.B. Campus, Kumaun Univ, Nainital-263 002) : Cyanobacteria and associated environmental factors in lake Nainital, Uttaranchal, India. J Ecophysiol occup Hlth 2006, 6(3-4), 175-83.

Species richness and abundance of cyanobacteria along with associated environmental factors viz., water temperature, secchi disc transparency, pH, dissolved oxygen, free carbondioxide and concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus, iron and zinc were monitored from August 2003 to July 2005 in Lake Nainital, Uttaranchal India. The lake was a eutrophic and warm monomictic water body undergoing circulation for a period of two months during winters. The concentrations of ammonium, nitrate, phosphate and other nutrients were generally high, and the water was alkaline throughout the study period. Dissolved oxygen remained near saturation except during winter circulation. Cyanobacteria appeared in the lake only from July to December in both years. Microcystis aeruginosa was the only species of the 8 identified cyanobacteria that developed obvious surface blooms in the form of scum. All other species had only small and isolated increases and decreases throughout the study period.

3 tables, 3 illus, 30 ref

023249   Gopalakrishnan;Anita Suresh Kumar Mody K;Jha B (Marine Algae and Marine Environment Discipline, CSMCRI, G.B. Road, Bhavnagar-364 002, Email: khmody@csmcri.org) : Biosurfactant production by marine bacteria. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2006, 29(3-4), 95-101.

Two halotolerant isolates, Pantoea spp. 1 and 2, produced biosurfactants during their growth in mannitol containing Bushnell-Haas medium. A definite decrease in surface tension from 69.93mN.M^-1 to 49.83mN.M^-1 and 41.2mN.M^-1 was observed in the cell free extracts of Pantoea spp.l and 2 respectively. After 24 hours of growth, the cell free extracts of both the cultures exhibited emulsifying activity with groundnut oil, coconut oil and kerosene. The present work is a preliminary report on biosurfactant production by marine bacteria from West coast of India and surface active and emulsifying properties of their cell free extracts.

3 illus, 25 ref

023248   Gopal Krishan;Suresh Kumar;Saha S K (Agriculture and Soil Div, Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand) : Significance of studying microbial diversity and its relevance. Ann For 2007, 15(1), 154-6.

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023247   Chalise H N (Social Gerontology Dep, School of Health Science Unrisyt, Tokyo University, Tokyo, Japan) : Population ageing trends in Nepal. Indian J Gerontol 2005, 19(4), 492-506.

Although population ageing is now regarded as a worldwide priority. research in this field is just beginning in Nepal. Elderly population is increasing both in terms of absolute number and as a proportion of total population in Nepal but on the other side traditional family supportive norms and values to elderly are constantly eroding. So, elderly population will be one of the most neglected groups of population in the society if due attention is not paid to address this particular issue in time by the government and non-governmental organization as well as civil society. Briefly provides a scenario of population aging in Nepal through the experience of the researcher of his own and through the secondary data obtained from census and surveys and other published sources.

2 illus, 9 tables, 31 ref

023246   Chakraborti S (Life Science Dep, Cytogenetics and Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar-799 130, Email: chakrabortisas@yahoo.co.in) : Phenological and pod bearing characteristics of Parkia javanica lamk. - a potential tree legume used as a source on non-conventional food in Tripura. J phytol Res 2006, 19(2), 185-9.

Tripura is having age-old practice of diversified food habit among the tribals and other ethnic communities. Non-conventional plant species are playing great role in the daily diet of such communities. During the course of present study phenological and pod bearing characteristics of Parkia javanica Lamk. was recorded. Nutritional value of flowers and pods of this species used as non-conventional food vegetable were worked out in terms of biochemical estimates. Characteristics variability in pod bearing clusters and nutritional potential of the seeds of P. javanica growing in Tripura conditions were recorded.

5 tables, 5 illus, 11 ref

023245   Cavalu S (Biophysics Dep, Univ of Oradea, Faculty of Medicine, P-ta 1 Decembrie 10, Oradea, Romania) : On the conformation and stability of pharmaceutical protein formulations by complementary spin label and fourier deconvolution technique. Asian J Phys 2006, 15(2), 141-7.

Long term-stability is critical in the successful development of phannaceuticals, including macromolecules. Useful information on protein properties can be obtained by noncovalent spin labelling if the affinity of the protein for the label molecules is great enough to affect their motional freedom. Followed the effect of protein conformational changes on the interactions between the nitroxide-spin label and the functional groups of protein and also the pH influence on molecular motion emphasized by the EPR spectra of the spin label. Complementary, structural information of serum albumin lyophilized from various pH is obtained by analysis of the conformationally-sensitive amide I and amide III bands using Attenuated Total Reflectance FT-IR spectroscopy. The Gaussian deconvolution (curve -fitting) was performed in order to determine the percentage of the individual elements of each type of secondary structure (i.e. α-helix, β-sheet, turns and unordered).

4 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

023244   Bose D;Ghosh U;Gangopadhyay H (Food Technology and Biochemical Engineering Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032) : Effect of different salts of metals on production of fungal alpha amylase by solid state fermentation utilizing agricultural wastes. J mycopathol Res 2006, 44(2), 225-9.

Enzymes are among the most important products obtained for human needs through microbial sources. Molds play an important role in producing starch degrading enzymes. Alpha amylase is one of the most important starch hydrolyzing enzyme, which have large applications in food, pharmaceutical, fermentation & chemical industries, can be obtained from molds. Aspergillus spp. have a long history on producing those enzymes. Solid state fermentation is gaining its popularity day by day in scientific world in production of industrially important enzymes due to its simplicity over conventional submerged method. Considering this facts alpha amylase was produced from Aspergillus oryzae under solid state fermentation. House hold agro-wastes, which are considered as one of the major pollutants due to unfavorable gas production via natural fermentation beside creating disposal problem, were used as medium in our present study. Investigations were carried out to evaluate the effect of different chemical compounds of various metals such as FeSO₄. 7H₂O, CuS0₄. 5H₂O, ZnS0₄. 7H₂O, MgSO₄.7H₂O, KH₂PO₄ and MnCl₂.4H₂O etc. on production" of enzyme alpha amylase obtained from Aspergillus oryzae by solid state fermentation utilizing agricultural wastes.

7 illus, 29 ref

023243   Bomhoff M (Madathuvilla Veedu, , Prasanth Nagar, Ullor-695 001) : Added value of a Aqualitativge approach towards the study of Senior's social lives. Indian J Gerontol 2005, 19(4), 425-38.

In 2003-2004, the author has researched several aspects of the social lives of senior women in Kerala (India). Particular attention was given to their household co-members, family ties, friendships and neighbours. The researched population group consisted of English speaking - and therefore relatively well of - senior women in Kerala's capital city of Thiruvananthapuram. Although not an "average" population group, the results show how a qualitative approach towards the social aspects of ageing may have several important benefits. It is therefore important that more qualitative studies should be performed for the research of all groups of elderly; in addition to the already often performed quantitative studies. Not only will this result in a more complete understanding of seniors' social lives. It may also help to further refine quantitative measures of data-gathering and correct certain hidden assumptions behind many studies on ageing.

13 ref

023242   Bhattacharyya P;Ghosh D G (Nodule Research Laboratory, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, P.O. Krishi Vidyalaya, Nadia-741 252) : Effect of some fluorescent pseudomonads on some plant pathogenic fungi and bacteria in vitro. J mycopathol Res 2006, 44(2), 285-87.

Nine isolates of fluorescent Pseudomonas were tested against some plant pathogenic fungi and bacteria (Macrophomina phaseolina; Fusarium monoliforme, Aspergillus niger, Pythium aphanidermatum, Rhizoctonia solani, Xanthomonas campestris pv. oryzicola and Pseudomonas solanacearum] in vitro for their inhibitory effect. Results indicated that some of the fluorescent bacterial isolates had antifungal and antibacterial properties against the above mentioned five fungi and two bacteria. Four out of nine isolates would inhibit all the fungus and bacteria.

2 tables, 13 ref

023241   Baskaran R K M;Mahendiran G;Suresh K (Agricultural Entomology Dep, Agricultural College and Research Instit, Agricultural Univ, Madurai-625 104, Tamil Nadu) : Influence of semi-synthetic diets and non-living substrata on the ovipositional behaviour of Scymnus Coccivora ayyar (Coccinellidae : coleoptera). J ent Res 2006, 30(3), 187-91.

Evaluation of three honey based semi-synthetic adult diets on the fecundity of Scymnus coccivora indicated that adults fed on Maconellicoccus hirsutus with honey 50%+multivitamin 10%+tocopherol acetate 0.5% had increased the ovipositional period from 25 to 30 days which correspondingly enhanced the egg production by 26.2 percent (729.5 eggs/20 adults). Absorbent cotton (4 x 4 cm) was identified as best substrate for oviposition by S. coccivora, receiving 33.5 percent of eggs.

2 tables, 2 illus, 15 ref

023240   Anand A;Garg G K;Narwal S;Anil Kumar (Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering Dep, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263 145, Email: ak_gupta2k@rediffmail.com) : Possible role of receptor like kinase (S) in karnal bunt pathogenesis and resistance. Pl Cell Biotechnol molec Biol 2006, 7(1-2), 41-6.

Four sets of primers were selected to amplify the members of receptor-like kinase gene family. However, amplification was observed with only one set of primers and only in six out of 20 wheat genotypes tested. The set of primers that amplified 6 varieties was based on sequences of homologous genes of hexaploid and diploid wheat of European varieties (showed considerable polymorphism due to transposable elements) hence; all Indian varieties could not be amplified by PCR. This differential amplification among 20 wheat genotypes may be due to segregation and rearrangement events due to gene deployment during the varietal development. Moreover, results could not be linked definitely with the KB resistance phenomenon until a further study would be conducted.

1 table, 24 ref

023239   Agarwal M;Gehani T (Zoology Dep, Reproductive Physiology Section, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004) : Antifertility effects of Foeniculum vulgare (seeds) on reproductive organs of male albino rats (Rattus norvegicus). Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2006, 76(Pt3), 216-21.

Oral administration of crude extract (50% EtOH) of Foeniculum vulgare (seeds) at a dose of 100mg./kg.b.wt/ day for sixty days showed arrest of spermatogenesis in male albino rats. The reduction of fertility conicided with suppressed sperm production and reduced sperm motility and fertility rate, the treatment caused degeneration and Vacuolization of spermatogenic cells and reduced seminiferous tubule dimensions The total protein contents of testes, epididymis, seminal vesicle, ventral prostate and testicular glycogen, were reduced significantly (p<60>001) following the administratibn of 50% EtOH crude extract of Foeniculum vulgar Seeds. Where I as total lipid and cholesterol were increased significantly. No change was observed in hematological parameters after Foeniculum vulgare crude extract treatment.

3 tables, 3 illus, 29 ref

022283   Zhang W;Zhang Z;Shen F;Hou R;Xiapoing L;Yue B (Key Laboratory of Bio-resource and Eco-environment (Ministry of Educat, Sichuan Univ, Chengdu, Sichuan-610 064, China, Email: bsyue@scu.edu.cn.) : Highly conserved D-loop-like nuclear mitochondrial sequences (numts) in tiger (Panthera tigris). J Genet 2006, 85(2), 107-16.

Using oligonucleotide primers designed to match hypervariable segments I (HVS-1) of Panthera tigris mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), atuhors amplified two different PCR products (500 bp and 287 bp) in the tiger (Panthera tigris), but got only one PCR product (287 bp) in the leopard (Panthera pardus). Sequence analyses indicated that the sequence of 287 bp was a D-loop-like nuclear mitochondrial sequence (Numts), indicating a nuclear transfer that occurred approximately 4.8-17 million years ago in the tiger and 4.6-16 million years ago in the leopard. Although the mtDNA D-loop sequence has a rapid rate of evolution, the 287-bp Numts are highly conserved; they are nearly identical in tiger subspecies and only 1.742% different between tiger and leopard. Thus, such sequences represent molecular 'fossils' that can shed light on evolution of the mitochondrial genome and may be the most appropriate outgroup for phylogenetic analysis. This is also proved by comparing the phylogenetic trees reconstructed using the D-loop sequence of snow leopard and the 287-bp Numts as outgroup.

2 tables, 3 illus, 34 ref

022282   Wu Y;Cai J;Cheng L;Wang C;Chen Y (Chemistry Dep, Jinan Univ, Guangzhou-510 632, China, Email: tjycai@jnu.edu.cn) : Chromosome imaging by atomic force microscopy: influencng factors and comparative evaluation. J Genet 2006, 85(2), 141-5.

4 illus, 11 ref

022281   Vetriselvi J;Saravanamuthu R (Microbiology and Botany Dep, A V C College (Autonomous), Mayiladuthurai-609 305) : Screening of some Indian spices for their antibacterial activity. Geobios 2007, 34(1), 84-6.

1 table, 8 ref

022280   Vetriselvi J;Anitha V;Kuzhalini K (Microbiology Dep, A V C College (Autonomous), Mayiladuthurai-609 305, Tamil Nadu) : Cellulolytic activity of aeromycoflora isolated from the working library atmospere. J microbial Wld 2006, 8(2), 163-6.

Aeromycological survey on working library atmosphere at A.V.C. College library, Mayiladuthurai was carried out. A total of ten fungal spores were identified. The fungal genus identified namely Aspergillus, Trichoderma, Curvularia, Alternaria, Cladosporium, Sephalosporium, Fusarium, Penicillium, Chaetomium and Pythomyces spp. The overall highest percentage of fungal species A. flavus, T.harizianum, A. alternata, C. lunata and F. oxysporum were recorded and tested for their cellulolytic activity. Cellulolytic activity was maximum with T. harizianum followed and C.lunata and A. flavus on loss in dry weight of sterilized filterpaper were observed where as moderate activity was observed with A. alternata and F. oxysporum.

1 table, 13 ref

022279   Velvizhi R;Muthukkaruppan S M; Sriramachandrasekaran M V (Microbiology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002) : Effect of phosphobacteria inoculation on the enzyme activities of flyash amended red soils. J microbial Wld 2006, 8(2), 246-46.

Lignite flyash (LFA) to soils not only increased the available nutrient status of soils, but also enhanced the microbial activity, particulary the phosphate solubilizing organisms, by providing a congenial environment. Effect of phosphobacteria inoculation on the enzyme activities of flyash amended red soils were studied. Increased enzymatic activity was observed with the application of higher amounts of LFA (100 t ha^-1) along with PB. The enzyme activity is more in the treatment of T₁₁-NPK + LFA @ 100 t ha^-1 + PB. The findings of the present study revealed that the phosphobacteria along with 100 t ha^-1 of LFA is beneficial in producing higher rate of enzyme activities.

2 tables, 6 ref

022278   Vasilev N P;Ionkova I I (Pharmacognosy Dep, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical Univ-Sofia, 2 Dunav St, Sofia 1000, Bulgaria, Email: ionkova@pharmfac.acad.bg) : Isolation and structure elucidation of Aryltetralin lignans from Linum tauricum ssp. Bulgaricum. J Pharmac Mag 2006, 2(7), 169-74.

A phytochemical investigation of the aerial parts of Linum tauricum ssp. bulgaricum (Linaceae) led to the isolation of five lignans using semi-preparative HPLC. LC-MS and NMR studies were used to characterize the structures of the isolated compounds. This is the first report of podophyllotoxin, 4'-demethylpodophyllotoxin, 4'- demethyl-6-methoxypodophyllotoxin and isolariciresinol in L. tauricum. Thus, the combination of semi-preparative HPLC, LC-MS and NMR techniques represents a powerful tool for unraveling the structure of naturally occurring lignans.

1 table, 1 illus, 20 ref

022277   Vasavi D;ramchander M;Girisham S;Reddy S M (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya University, Warangal, Andhra Pradesh) : Incidence and cultural characteristics of anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(2), 139-45.

Extensive and intensive survey of sewage, industrial effluents, rice fields, freshwater and earthworm casts for the presence of purple non-sulphur bacteria was undertaken. In all the nine bacterial species, which included Rhodopseudomonas palustris, R.rutila, R.acdiophila, Rhodopila globiformis, Rhodospirillum rubrum, Rhodospirillium photometricum, Rhodobacter sphaeroides, R.capsulatus, Rhodobacter sp and Rhodocyclus gelatinosus were isolated. They were identified by their cultural and morphological characteristics such as colour of the cell suspension, shape, size, arrangement, motility, absorption maxima, carbon source requirement and photosynthetic electron donors. However the bacteria differed in their percentage of incidence. The incidence and cultural characteristics of phototrophic bacteria are discussed in this communication.

4 tables, 13 ref

022276   Vachhrajani K D (Division of Toxicology, Zoology Dep, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodra-390 002, Email: kdv_zdmsu@yahoo com) : Correlation of cellular distribution of mercury and subsequent impairment of spermatogensis in rat. J Cell Tissue Res 2007, 7(2), 1181-8.

Male reproductive toxicity of mercury is now well established. However, occurrence of variations in the lesions at different seminiferous epithelial (SE) stages is still not very clearly. understood. In present experiment cellular distribution of mercury is correlated with cellular lesions, biochemical status and spermatogenesis. Adult rats were administered 100 μ mercuric chloride per kg body weight, daily for 60 days. Observations were made on day 60 and day 120 including withdrawal period. Qualitative and quantitative spermatogenic analyses and quantification of mercury localization were made at stages II, VII and XII. Nuclear status in terms of degenerative grades was assessed at stages I-XIV. Histochemical demonstration of acid phosphatase activity was studied at stages I-XIV using fresh frozen serial sections for histochemical localization and nuclear staining by toludine blue for SE stage identification. DNA, RNA and protein were estimated in testis. Study shows decline in macromolecule levels and in the acid phosphatase activity suggesting functional impairment of testis. Site-specific enzyme activity decline suggested stage-wise variations in the status of Sertoli cells. Mercury specifically localized in close vicinity of dividing primary spermatocytes (pachytene) and in the dislodged cytoplasm masses. Such masses were highly eosinophilic as well as had diffused acid phosphatase activity. Such findings correlated pattern of mercury localization and spermatogenic impairment. The findings suggest that stage-specific distribution of mercury in Sertoli cells is very closely associated with the site and severity of injury, apoptosis of more mature spermatogenic cells and hence, consequent spermatogenesis.

5 tables, 12 illus, 29 ref

022275   Upadhyay R K;Jaiswal G (Zoology Dep, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gorakhpur Univ, Gorakhpur-273 009, Email: rkupadhya@yahoo com) : Biochemical alterations in blood parameters by marble stone dust in craft workers. J Cell Tissue Res 2007, 7(2), 1141-6.

Survey of limestone exposure amongst. 783 cases of marble stone craft workers was undertaken in 50 crafting firms at Agra where the industry is providing wages to 5-10% of the , population. Important hematological changes such as RBC, Hb, PCV, MCV, MCH, MCHC, DLC -and platelets counts were observed in regular craft workers and daily wagers based on the age, exposure time and socioeconomic conditions. The mean blood haemoglobin concentration was found 11.24± 0.39 gm/100 ml in workers which is also observed in more chronic stage among aged workers. In workers mean RBC count was significantly decreased 3.22± 0.016 in comparison to non-workers, while WBC count was found increased (8.66±0.22). Among WBC mean lymphocyte count was decreased (26.08±0.45) and monocyte count get increased in the workers (4.51±0.18) in comparison to non-workers. Similarly platelet count in workers gets induced (317± 0. 72) due to dust exposure. The cholinestrase, lactic dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase activities were found higher in comparison to control, which indicate that substantial occupational exposure of solid dust particles were generating negative effects and health hazards for the body physiology and biochemistry of craft workers. Most of the workers were unaware of the risks due to inhalation of carcinogenic stone dust as it has significantly induced sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) in craft workers (20.17±0.202) in comparison to non-workers (5.52±1.65). It was found more erroneous on the part of industries that they have poor safety measures for the protection of stone craft workers.

8 tables, 32 ref

022274   Trocme S D;Sra S K;Haq S;Zhang M (Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Dep, Case Western Univ, Cleveland ohio) : Cytokine modulation of ICAM-1 (CD54) in human conjunctival epithelium: primary cells and cell line compared and contrasted. J Cell Tissue Res 2007, 7(2), 1115-21.

Adhesion molecules play a key role in the migration of effector cells to sites of inflammation in various allergic conditions. At the ocular surface, the intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1 or CD 54) functions as the ligand for leukocyte adhesion to the corneal and conjunctival epithelium. Author investigated the effects of the proinflamatory cytokines IFN-γ and TNF-α on ICAM-1 expression on cultured human conjunctival epithelial cells and the HC0597. Human conjunctival epithelial cells (primary cells or the HCO597 cell line) were grown to confluence in 96-well plates and treated with increasing concentrations of IFN-γ, TNF-α, or a combination of IFN- γ and TNF- α. ICAM-1 expression was measured using a cell-based ELISA. Exposure to IFN-γ or TNF-α induced a time and dose-dependent increase of ICAM-1 expression in the HC0597 cells. IFN-γ induced up to an eight-fold increase in ICAM-1 expression at 24 hours, while there was less than a 1-fold increase from any TNF-α treatment. A similar trend was observed in the primary conjunctival epithelial cells. Treatment with IFN-γ and TNF-α resulted in an additive, but not a synergistic increase in conjunctival ICAM-1 expression. ICAM-1 expression on conjunctival epithelial cells can be modulated by the proinflammatory cytokines IFN-γ or TNF-α in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The up regulation of ICAM-1 on the conjunctival epithelium may contribute to the inflammatory response in ocular allergies by binding and activating leukocytes, which express the ICAM-1 receptor LFA-1. The HC0597 cell line proved to be a good model for the human conjunctival epithelial cell response to proinflammatory cytokines.

6 illus, 40 ref

022273   Sivaperumal R;Subramanian P;Subash S;Essa M M (Biochemistry and Biotechnology Dep, Faculty of Science, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002, Email: annamalai_rhythm@yahoo co in) : Effect of aspartic acid on lipid peroxidation, liver markers and biochemical variables in wistar rats. J Cell Tissue Res 2007, 7(1), 927-30.

In mammals, asparlate and glutamate are the important excitotoxins and cause neuronal cell death. It has been suggested that oxidative stress plays an important role in mediating this phenomenon. This neuronal toxicity is associated with lipid peroxidation by the activation of NMDA (N-methyl D-aspartate) receptors. A daily dose of aspartate (50 mg/kg body weight) was administered orally for 60 days and the levels of circulatory lipid peroxidation products (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances -TBARS); antioxidants such as reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT); liver marker enzymes (aspartate transaminase -AST, alanine transaminase -ALT, alkaline phosphatase -ALP) were measured. The levels of brain aspartate, and glucose and cholesterol were estimated in circulation. Increased levels of TBARS, AST, ALT, ALP, glucose, cholesterol and decreased activities of GSH, SOD and CAT were found in aspartate treated rats. These results indicate that aspartic acid induces oxidative stress in brain, which is mediated by excessive activation of NMDA receptors and support the idea that oxidative stress can play a role in changes of liver marker enzymes and other biochemical variables.

1 table, 43 ref

022272   Sinha R;Joshi R H;Dodia M S;Singh S P (Bioscience Dep, Saurashtra Univ, Rajkot-360 005) : Production, Purification and characterization of an alkaline protease from an alkaliphilic Bacillus sp.. J Cell Tissue Res 2007, 7(2), 1031-7.

An extracellular serine like alkaline protease was purified and characterized from alkaliphilic Bacillus sp. The enzyme was purified to the homogeneity by a combination of aqueous two-phase system and affinity chromatographic techniques. The apparent molecular weight was estimated as 26-29 kDa based on SDS-PAGE and gel filtration chromatography and the enzyme appeared to be a monomer. The Km and Vmax for the casein were 4.7 mgml^-1 and 24.5μml^-1 respectively. The enzyme was active over a wide range of temperature (10-65°C) and pH (8-12.5); the optimum activity being at 35°C and pH 11.0. The purified enzyme was quite stable at 35°C up to 1h of incubation, while 80 and 50% residual activities were detected at 55 and 65 °C respectively after 20 min of incubation. Similarly, enzyme exhibited 100% stability in alkaline pH range, which sharply decreased in acidic range. The enzyme lost its activity in the presence of PMSF, Hg⁺² and Cu⁺² and remained unaffected with EDTA, Mg⁺² and Ba⁺².

2 tables, 7 illus, 46 ref

022271   Shrivastava J N;Ajay Kumar (Botany Dep, Microbiology Lab, Dayalbagh Educational Institute, Dayalbagh, Agra-282 005) : Bioefficacy of some plant extracts against periodontitis causing bacteria. J microbial Wld 2006, 8(2), 147-51.

Three plant extracts namely (Acacia arabica, Vitis vinifera, and Spillanthus acmella) have been evaluated against periodontitis causing bacteria along with the observations made in the number of colony of Streptococcus isolated from hospital. Results show that the juice of Vitis vinifera is most effective against Streptococci (76.4% inhibition) at 100% concentration on 2nd day of incubation when compared with Acacia arabica and Spillanthus acmella whereas minimum inhibition in colony diameter have been observed in Acacia arabica (3.8%) on 2nd day of incubation period at 25% concentration. In case of biomass production, Vitis vinifera proved more effective (56.7% inhibition) with respect to Acacia arabica and Spillanthus acmella at 100% concentration on 6th of day incubation and the least effective case with regard to biomass inhibition has been observed in Spillanthus acmella (3.1% inhibition) on 6th day of incubation period at 25% concentration. It concludes that Vitis vinifera has been considered to be the most effective one when compared with the bark of Acacia arabica and flower heads of Spillanthus acmella.

2 tables, 14 ref

022270   Sheikh I A;Ovais M (Biosciences Dep, Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal-462026, Email: sheikh_irfan99@yahoo co in) : Analysis of melatonin induced aggregatory responses on the isolated scale melanophores of an air breathing fish Channa gachua (Ham ). J Cell Tissue Res 2007, 7(2), 1195-1201.

Effect of melatonin (MT) was examined on the isolated scale melanophores of a teleostean air breathing fish Channa gachua (Ham). Melanophore size index (MSI) was chosen as the parameter for recording of melanophore responses to MT. Increase or the decrease in the MSI value from the control represents dispersion or aggregation of the melanophores respectively. MT in a wide dose-range induced aggregation in the dermal melanophores of this fish. Denervation of melanophores caused a measurable change in the sensitivity of the melanophores to MT. In the denervated melanophores low doses of MT induced responses were potentiated while the higher doses of MT induced responses were inhibited. The results indicate the presence of two different mechanisms for the low and high dose-range of MT induced responses. Melatonin induced responses were effectively and mostly significantly inhibited by phentolamine, yohimbine, atropine and propranolol. The aggregatory responses of the melanophores were not blocked by verapamil and guanithidine. These results suggest that MT induced aggregatory responses in this fish melanophores are due to activation of specific MT receptors.

6 illus, 28 ref

022269   Sharma R K;Bhardwaj J K (Zoology Dep, Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Kurukshetra Univ, Kurukshetra-136119, Email: bhardwajkj111@yahoo co in) : Granulosa cell apoptosis In situ in caprine ovary. J Cell Tissue Res 2007, 7(2), 1111-14.

Apoptotic changes in membrana granulosa of ovaries in goat (Capra hircus) have been studied in situ using light and scanning electron microscopy. Histologically, the degenerating granulosa cells were characterized by condensed cytoplasm, pyknotic nuclei and hazy cytosol. Most of the cytoplasmic components were condensed and were seen clumping against the pyknotic nucleus. The nucleus of degenerating cells stain darkly with giemsa while the cytoplasm were eosinophilic. In a few apoptotic cells heterochromatin bodies were seen adhering the nuclear membrane in the hyaline nucleosol. Under scanning electron microscopy apoptosis was marked by asymmetrical shrinkage and Vacuolization of cytoplasm. The cell membrane of degenerating granulosa cells was smooth textured with a number of uneven depression and ruffles. Fragmentation of nucleus and pinching off of membrane bound nuclear fragments were the characteristic features observed in situ.

6 illus, 17 ref

022268   Sharma N;Thakur V S;Neopaney B (Basic Sciences Dep, Horticulture and Forestry Dep, , Nauni, Solan-173 230, Email: nivea_64@yahoo.co.in) : Amylolytic activity of bacteria isolated from mushroom compost. Mushroom Res 2006, 15(2), 119-123.

Thirteen amylolytic bacteria were isolated from mushroom compost and were screened for amylase production. Strain No. 9, identified as Bacillus subtilis produced the highest enzyme (5.78 IU). The enzyme yield enhanced appreciably to 20.80 IU on optimizing the environmental conditions viz. substrate concentration, temperature, incubation tune, pH, carbon source etc and to 29.77 IU after partial purification of enzyme amylase. Beside producing higher titers of enzyme, Bacillus subtilis had also been found acidophilic and thermophilic along with production of higher titers of amylase. Due to the rare and desirable characteristics of this isolate from mushroom compost, it can be used commercially in different industries.

3 tables, 14 ref

022267   Shanmugakumar S D;Amerjothy S;Balakrishna K (Plant Biology and Biotechnology Dep, Presidency college, Chennai-600 005, Tamil Nadu) : Pharmacognostical, antibacterial and antifungal potential of the leaf extract of Pithecellobium dulce benth. J Pharmac Mag 2006, 2(7), 160-4.

The hexane, chloroform, alcoholic and total alkaloidal extracts of the leaves of Pithecellobium dulce Benth. (Mimosoideae) were studied for their antimycobacterial activity by L J (Lowenstein -Jensen) method. The activity was compared with primary standard drug Rifamycin. The antifungal activity was also studied by screening against Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger by disc diffusion method. The antifungal activity was compared with standard drugs Fluconazole and Nystatin at the concentration of 10μg/ml. The alcoholic and total alkaloidal extracts showed activity against Candida albicans at the concentration of 6.25μg/disc, 12.5μg/disc & 25μg/disc. The hexane, chloroform extracts were found to be inactive. On contrary, all the extracts of P.dulce were found to be inactive against Aspergillus niger. The Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that Mycobacterium tuberculosis is susceptible to the alcoholic 6 alkaloidal extracts of P. dulce. The alkaloidal extract of P. dulce . showed high susceptibility against Mycobacterium tuberculosis at the concentration of 1mg/mL. While the alcohol extract showed activity at 2mg/mL. The concentration of primary standard drug Rifamycin was 2.5 μg/mL. Anatomical, histochemical Etchromatographic studies were also carried out to fulfill the botanical quality control standards. The results of the investigation are discussed in detail.

2 tables, 6 illus, 25 ref

022266   Semwal K C;Bhatt R P;Upadhyay R C (National Research Centre for Mushroom, , Solan-173 213) : Amanita avellaneosquamosa - a new record for India. Mushroom Res 2006, 15(1), 7-9.

A species of the section Amidella of the genus Amanita namely Amanita avellaneosquamosa (Imai) Imai is reported and illustrated for the first time from India. The ecology and the ectomycorrhizal association of this fungus are also discussed.

3 illus, 6 ref

022265   Selvamuthukumar S;Pushpalatha R;Sethupathy S; Manavalan R;Karar P K (Pharmacy Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608002, Email: smk1976@gmail.com) : Induction of apoptosis by Piper betel leaf extract on 7, 12 dimethylbenz [A] anthracene induced hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis. J Cell Tissue Res 2007, 7(2), 1067-72.

Induction of apoptosis by Piper betel leaf extracts during 7, 12 dimethylbenz [a] anthracene (DMBA) induced hamster buccal pouch (HBP) carcinoma was studied in male Syrian hamsters using DNA fragmentation and the apoptosis-associated proteins, tissue transglutaminase (tTG) andBcl-2. Hamsters were divided into four groups of six animals each. Animals in group 1 were painted with a 0.5% solution of DMBA in liquid paraffin on the right buccal pouches three times a week for 14 weeks. Group 2 animals painted with DMBA as in group 1, in addition received 500 mg/kg body weight chloroform extract of Piper betel leaves orally on days alternate to DMBA application. Group 3 animals painted with DMBA as in group 1, in addition received 500 mg/kg body weight methonolic extract of Piper betel leaves orally on days alternate to DMBA application. Group 4 animals received neither DMBA nor betel leaf extracts and served as the control. The experiment was terminated at the end of 14 weeks. Administration of Piper betel leaf extracts (500 mg/kg body weight) to animals painted with DMBA inhibited DMBA-induced oral cancer as revealed by the absence of neoplasm, induction of tTG and inhibition of Bcl-2 expression. The results of the present study suggest that Piper betel leaves may exert its chemopreventive effect by inducing apoptosis.

1 table, 4 illus, 36 ref

022264   Sathiyanarayanan L;Arulmozhi S; Chidambaranathan N (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, Oxford College of Pharmacy, J.P Nagar I Phase, Bangalore-560 078) : Anticholesterolemic, hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of Glinus lotoides linn. against ethanol induced liver damage in rat. J Pharmac Mag 2006, 2(7), 157-9.

Investigates the effect of ethanolic extract of Glinus lotoides Linn. (EEGL) against ethanol induced lipid peroxidation. Administration of ethanol (18%) for 45 days induces lipid peroxidation leading to liver damage. Hence the enzyme levels such AST, which are good markers of liver condition have been elevated and also the triglycerides and cholesterol. Simultaneous administration of EEGL at the dose of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg reduced these elevated parameters significantly (p<60>0.001) substantiating that EEGL is inhibiting the ethanol induced liver damage in rats. This was further supported by the evidence of significantly increased (p<60>0. 05, p<60>0.01 respectively) glutathione level indicating increased antioxidant enzyme level and significantly (p<60>0.001) decreased malondialdehyde level indicating the decreased oxidative stress.

1 table, 10 ref

022263   Sarkar P;Battacharjee M;Acharya S;Ghosh A; Chaudhuri S (Cellular and Molecular Immunology Lab, Physiology Dep, Dr. B.C. Roy Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, 244B, A.J.C. Bose Road, Kolkata-700020, Email: swapna_chau@rediffmail.com) : Functional and receptor modulations of t-lymphocyte and macrophage in acute and subacute dose finding studies of a novel immunotherapeutic molecule TIITS. J Cell Tissue Res 2007, 7(2), 1013-18.

Deals with animal toxicological studies and its immunological consequences of intravenous administration of T11 TS during acute (four groups) and sub acute (three groups) dose finding studies (n=6). Splenic T lymphocytes of these animals showed no E-rosette formation with SRBC due to the down regulation of CD2 receptor on T cells. The nonspecific cytotoxicity of these cells remained unaltered. Growth arrest stage of the T cells following T11TS administration is indicated by CD25 (IL-2R) down regulation, the activation marker of T lymphocytes. Thus, the anergic state acquired by T cell is characterized by intact functional activity and down regulated growth receptors. Phagocytic activity of the splenic macrophage of these animals showed no alteration. However, this cell showed marked suppression in CD 11b (CR3) receptor expression in the highest dose selected for acute and subacute dose finding study.

6 illus, 28 ref

022262   S Dutta;Laskar S I;Maiti M (NO, , Meteoroogical Office, Pune) : Does the western-ghats play any dynamical roe in the distance effect of vortex over the Bay of Bengal on the enhancement of monsoon rainfal over Pune?. Mausam 2006, 57(4), 567-78.

An attempt has been made to examine the dynamical role (if any) played by the Western Ghats (WG), in the distance effect of vortex over the Bay of Bengal (BOB) on the rainfall enhancement over Pune, during southwest monsoon season (SWMS). To examine it, a dynamical model of airflow over a meso-scale barrier has been used. Six cases have been studied, in which enhancement of rainfall over Pune in presence of vortex over the Head Bay are noticed. Out of these six cases, in four cases it is found that the dynamical model can capture, at least qualitatively, the observed fluctuation (rise and fall) of rainfall over Pune. In these four cases westerly along west coast was strong with considerable depth in vertical. In one of the other two cases, the model has been able to capture, at least qualitatively, the observed rise in rainfall but failed to capture the observed fall in rainfall. In the other case the model has failed completely to capture, even qualitatively, the fluctuation in observed rainfall over Pune. In the last two cases, westerly along west coast station was weak and shallow.

1 table, 6 illus, 10 ref

022261   Ramu S;Panneerselva M A;Vijayaraman K (P.G. and Research Department of Zoology and Biotechnology, A V V M Sri Pushpam College, Poondi-613 503) : Fungi associated with freshwater fish, Channa punctatus in culture ponds in Thiruvarur district, Tamilnadu. Geobios 2007, 34(1), 68-70.

Among the fungal disease ulcer poses as a serious challenge to the fish culture operations. The clinical signs due to secondary fungal infection include cotton bloom in tissue, ulceration and erosion of fin, skin and muscles of fish, Channa punctatus.

1 table, 7 ref

022260   Rajaram A (NO, , ) : Musth in elephants. Resonance 2006, 11(10), 18-27.

Animal behaviour is intimately connected with chemical signaling, often through glandular secretions. This is very significant and obvious in Asian male elephants during their musth period when their temporal glands secrete a fluid with a characteristic odor. Musth gland activity greatly influences the elephant society as well as man-elephant interaction.

5 illus, 5 ref

022259   Radheyshyam ;Safui L;Chattopadhyay D N; Satpathy B B (Krishi Vigyan Kendra and Trainer's Training Centre, Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneshwar, Orissa-751 002) : Woman-friendly rural aquaculture. Indian Fmg 2007, 56(10), 50-2.

Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture is credited with technological innovation in developing diversified resource for productivity enhancement and region-specific technologies in freshwater aquaculture, some of them are woman-friendly too. The Krishi Vigyan Kendra is playing a crucial role in imparting vocational skill training woman-friendly auaculture through participatory approach. The methods have proven their worth in bringing to the fore the latent potentials of rural women for generously contributing to family income and self-employment in the villages. The is to analyze and amplify the prospects of appropriate woman-friendly freshwater aquaculture technological options in practice for those who do not earn enough as desired.

1 table, ref

022258   Radhakrishna S (NO, National Institute of Advanced Studies, IISc Campus, Bangalore-560 012) : From Purgatorius ceratops to Homo sapiens. Resonance 2007, 11(8), 69-80.

Deals with the final part of the tale, that of the evolution of the human lineage. Before we launch into the origin and evolution of the human species, it is a useful exercise to take a brief look at what distinguishes humans from other primates. Most of the anatomical differences between humans and other primates are simply an extension of the morphological differences between primates and other mammals. For example, the trends towards increased brain size, delayed maturational periods and specialization of the hand for object manipulation, already present in non-human primates, reach the apex of development in modern humans.

1 illus, 5 ref

022257   Radhakrishna S (NO, National Institute of Advanced Studies, IISc Campus, Bangalore-560 012, Email: sindhu@nias.iisc.ernet.in) : From Purgatorius ceratops to Homo sapiens. Resonance 2006, 11(7), 51-60.

Looking at ourselves today, it is a little difficult to conceive of our origins as "small, fuzzy critters" that ate insects and lived in trees. And yet, as modern biology suggests, humankind is only part (and a very small part!) of an evolutionary continuum that stretches back to the origins of the primate order, some 80 million years ago. Attempts to trace the origin and evolution of the primate order from its beginnings as a small and obscure species in a corner of the planet to the rise and spread of humankind, the most formidable species on Earth today. The first part of this article briefly reviews the evolutionary history of primates and significant phenomena that affected the course of this evolution, while the second part of the article focuses on the important stages in human evolution.

1 illus, ref

022256   Prabhu S;Shyamala Devi C S (Biochemistry Dep, Guindy Campus, Madras Univ, Chennai-25, Email: prabhubio2k@yahoo.co.in) : Protective effect of mangiferin an active phytochemical and cardiotonic from Mangifera indica linn on isoproterenol induced myocardial infarcted rat - an electrocardiographic, electrophoretic and biochemical evidences. J Pharmac Mag 2006, 2(7), 180-7.

The protective role of mangiferin an active phyto-chemical extracted from Mangifera indica Linn was tested on isoproterenol (ISPH) administered experimental myocardial infarction in rats and was confirmed by ECG study in rat heart, electrophoresis analysis of serum protein, serum A/G ratio, biochemical studies such as heart tissue protein, glycogen, nucleic acids and blood glucose. Subcutaneous injection of ISPH (20 mg / 100g body weight in 0.1 ml saline) to rats for 2 consecutive days caused myocardial damage and was confirmed by elevation of ST segments in rat heart ECG pattern, reduction in serum electrophoresis protein bands and serum A/G ratio, increase in heart tissue protein and nucleic acids, increase in blood glucose and decrease in heart tissue glycogen. Pretreatment with mangiferin (10 mg / 100 g body weight in 0.2 ml of dimethyl sulphoxide) for 28 days through intraperitonial injection in ISPH administered rats protected the above-mentioned parameters from alterations as compared with myocardial infarcted rats. This confirmed the myocardial protective role of mangiferin on ISPH-induced myocardial infarction in rats.

1 table, 51 ref

022255   Patil S A;Mali B G (Biotechnology Dep, Tatyasaheb Kore Institute of Engineering and Technology, Warananagar-416 113 (M.S.)) : Antibacterial activity of garlic extract (Allium sativum) on human pathogenic bacteria. J microbial Wld 2006, 8(2), 252-4.

The effect of extract prepared from dried garlic cloves has been tested for their antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus vulgaris. The evaluation of antimicrobial activity of garlic extract was carried out with crude aqueous and alcoholic extracts. Garlic extract was found to be effective against pathogenic bacteria and results indicate that when garlic extract was prepared with distilled water it shows higher zone of inhibition than with alcoholic extract.

1 table, 10 ref