013779   Sakarkar D M;Sakarkar K U U M;Sakarkar K N; Mahajan N M;Jaiswal S B (NO, Vidhyabharti College of Pharmacy, camp, Amravati) : Biodiversity of indigenous herbal potential medicinal plants used by the tribals for hair disorders and other diseases in Melghat forest of Amravati district,India. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 721-6.

The study is an attempt to investigate the medicinal plants used for hair disorders by tribal women cornmunity in Melghat forest of Amravati district, India. The information was collected from tribal women and herbal medicine used by them in hair disorders. To know the medicinal properties of plants a discussion with a group of 6-7 females in the age group of 15-50 years and 6-7 male in the age group of 45-50 years were used for hair disorders and for various diseases respectively. In all 56 plants species belonging to 50 families of ethnomedicinal interest are recorded after critical screening.

2 tables, 9 ref

013778   Sachidanandamurthy K L;Yajurvedi H N (Zoology Dep, Manasagangotri, University of Mysore, Mysore-570 006) : Physiochemical parameters of an aquaculture body in Mysore city, Karnataka, India. J envir Biol 2006, 27(4), 615-18.

Monthly changes in water quality parameters (physicochemical) of a rain fed lake (Bilikere) in Mysore city, were investigated for two calendar years (2002 and 2003) to assess the suitability of this lake for pisciculture. Although there were monthly fluctuations in water temperature, total suspended solids (TSS), dissolved oxygen (DO), nitrite and ammonia, they were within the desirable limits. On the other hand, total alkalinity and hydrogen sulphide throughout the study period and pH for a major part, were higher than the desirable limits. Other parameters viz; turbidity, biological oxygen demand (BOD), phosphate, and nitrate in a few months were higher than the desirable limits for waters used for fish culture. The high levels of these factors are due to the entry of agricultural run off and occasional flow of sewage into (he lake. In addition dense algal growth was noticed at times of the year which is caused by surge in nutrients level whenever there was rainfall. Since, the lake has a great aquacultural potential, it is suggested that control of nutrient load that enters the lake occasionally, might help the lake to continue its mesotrophic status.

1 table, 15 ref

013777   Roy Chaudhuri S;Pattanayak A K;Thakur A R (West Bengal University of Technology, BF 142, Sector 1, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700 064, Email: shanon_raychaudhuri@yahoo.co.in) : Microbial DNA extration from samples of varied origin. Curr Sci 2006, 91(12), 1697-1700.

Impact of four different soil DNA extraction methods on the quantity and quality of isolated community DNA was evaluated using agarose gel electrophoresis, DNA spectrum study and PCR-based 16S ribosomal DNA analysis. The modified direct lysis method was optimized for environmental water samples (wastewater fed-fisheries and raw liquid sewage canal) as well as diagnostic samples like urine from humans, thus opening up a new arena for fast culture-independent detection of causative pathogens in pathological manifestations like urinary tract infections. The same method was independently found to be effective for isolation of genomic DNA from both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Thus a uniform method of DNA extraction from environmental samples (different types of soil and water), pathological samples as well as varied kinds of bacteria was obtained.

4 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

013776   Ravindran P C;Joseph S (NO, School of Biosciences, Mahatma Gandhi Univ, Kottayam, Kerala) : An assessment of prevalence of nosocomial pathogens in a secondary care hospital. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(2), 195-9.

Total of 101 culture swabs collected from,various inanimate objects of three wards namely, Post surgery ward, Maternity ward and Neonatal ICU of a secondary care hospital were investigated. About 304 bacterial isolates were obtained after cultural analysis. Identification of these isolates by various biochemical reactions revealed that Enterococci (20.7%) was the predominant isolate, followed by Aerobic spore bearing bacilli (13.2%), Micrococci (12.2%), Staph. aureus (11.2%), Pseudomonas sps. (10.9%), Staph. saprophyticus (9.5%), Staph. citreus (7.2%), Proteus (5.9%), Staph. epidermidis (5.6%). Yeast (1.6%), E.coli (0.65%), Salmonella (0.65%), Streptococci sps. (0.32%) and Klebsiella (0.32%). The antibiogram pattern of isolates were prepared by 13 distinct antibiotics which include both conventional drugs and new generation antibiotics. Among which ciprofloxacin was the most effective drug followed by gentamicin and tetracycline in the decreasing order of effectiveness. Four commonly used working solutions of antiseptics namely Betadine solution, Betadine solution for hand scrub, Savlon and Dettol were tested against various hospital isolates. The efficacy of these antiseptic solutions were satisfactory except against Pseudomonas. The beta lactamase production by hospital isolates of Staphylococcus sps. were detected by iodometric method. Among 27 tested strains 25 showed typical enzyme production. Plate sedimentation method was adopted to check the hospital air flora. Analysis of blood agar plates exposed at three wards showed Micrococci and Aerobic spore bearing bacilli as the predominant isolates. Exposed plates in Operation theatre showed no growth.

5 tables, 15 ref

013775   Rao K V S (Zoology Dep, Univ Andhra, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Improved spawning of Clarius batrachus (Linnaeus) in fish farms. Biosci Res Bull 2006, 22(2), 99-104.

Increase in the availability of Clarius batrachus fry may be a result of habitat deterioration and ever increasing fishing pressure. The design of spawning ponds and the Principle of alternating water levels to induce spawning are described. The technique used demonstrates that a constant source of fry may be obtained year round using the same brood stock. A note on larval rearing and conditioning of spent brood stock is also mentioned.

3 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

013774   Rao K V B;Charyulu P B B N (Microbiology Dep, S.S.N.P.G. College, Ongole 523 001) : Growth and yield of foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.) beauv.]: effects of nitrogen fertilization and inoculation with Azospirillum lipoferum. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(2), 307-14.

Inoculation of foxtail millet (cv. Chitra) with three strains of Azospirillum lipoferum either alone or in combination with nitrogen fertilizer (40 kg N ha^-1) increased the plant height, the dry weight of shoot and root, and the total N content of shoot, root and grain. The grain yield of the inoculated plants was significantly higher compared to the control plants. Both panicle and seed weights increased due to inoculation. Among the inocula tested, Inoculm-2 (In-2) was superior to the other two inocula. Further, seasonal (Kharif and Rabi) variations in growth and yield of the plants were also observed.

4 tables, 29 ref

013773   Ranjith M S;Shankar S G;Ranjit Singh A J A; Vijayalakshmi G S;Kalaichelvan P T;Sivaramakrishnan M;Shenbakaraman R (Department of Microbiology, The New college, Chennai 14) : Antimicrobial activities of Cassia fistula and Cassia auriculata. Phytomedica 2005, (6), 105-9.

Antimicrobial activity of plant extracts of Cassia fistula and Cassia auriculata was studied against 4 strains each of Aspergillus niger, A.fumigatus, A.flavus, Candida albicans, C.tropicalis, C.gullermondii, C.krusei, Pityrosporum ovale, Trichophyton rubrum, T.mentagrophytes, T.tonsurans, T.violaceum, Microsporum gypseum, Epidermophyton floccosum and 5 strains each of bacterial species such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, and Vibrio cholerae. The aqueous and ethanolic extracts of these plants were active on fungi while the ethylacetate and chloroform extracts of these plants were found to be bactericidal. A higher antifungal activity of the extract of C.auriculata was also recorded.

4 tables, 4 ref

013772   Ranjan M R;Nagaraj M (Department of Biology, Gandhigram Rural Institute-Deemed University, Gandhigram-624 302) : Evaluaton of Mucuna pruriens of endosulfan induced hepatotoxicity in male rats. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 655-6.

Endosulfan is a highly toxic pesticide in the toxicity class-I. It is now being extensively used in formulated Form as a broad spectrum contact and stomach insecticide mainly in agriculture. Mucuna pruriens acts a potent curative for endosulfan induced hepato toxicity. The toxicity brought about by the endosulfan is temporary when it is caused by low dosages. But endosulfan can be harmful to the body when consumed accidentlly. Mucuna pruriens is a natural source for the preparation of potent cure for the insecticide induced toxicity. Mucuna pruriens is reliable as a potent cure for endosulfan induced toxicity.

4 illus, 4 ref

013771   Rana S V S;Chaudhary N;Verma Y (Dep of Zoology, Toxicology Laboratory, Ch. Charan Singh Univ, Meerut-250 004, Email: sureshvs-rana@yahoo.com) : Circadian variation in lipid peroxidation induced by benzene in rats. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(3), 253-7.

Time-dependent effect of benzene, a potent carcinogenic industrial solvent, on lipid peroxidaiton and associated mechanisms has been studied in liver and kidney of rats. Significant differences were observed in the values of urinary phenol, microsomal malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione (GSH) and cytochrome P₄₅₀2El in rats treated with benzene in morning and evening hours. Higher were the values for urinary phenol and hepatic microsomal malondialdehyde in rats administered benzene in evening hours. Contrarily, higher were the values for GSH and cytochrome P₄₅₀2E1 in rats treated with benzene in morning hours. Increased microsomal lipid peroxidation has been attributed to low GSH status, whereas increased phenol concentration could be related to low activity of cytochrome P₄₅₀2E1 in the liver of rats in evening hours. It is concluded that circadian rhythmicity in hepatic drug metabolizing enzyme system and GSH contributes in toxicity of benzene. The results are important from occupational health point of view.

2 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

013770   Rakesh Kumar;Sharma S K;Luthra O P;Sharma S (Dept. of Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univer, Hissar-125 004) : Phenotypic stability of lentil genotypes under different environments. Ann Biol 2005, 21(2), 155-8.

Investigation was carried out with 44 lentil genotypes in eight environments to study their stability for yield and other relevant characters. Individual regression analysis over all the eight environments revealed that most of the genotypes exhibited predictable linear type of G x E interaction with respect to mean performance and response to changing environment for the traits. The environment VII (late sown with high dose of nitrogen) has been found to be the most favourable for the expression of seed yield and related traits. Considering the various stability parameters for different characters under study, genotypes DPL-15, DPL-55 and IPL-71 were adjudged to be promising for most of the characters.

3 tables, 6 ref

013769   Rajagopal S V;Radhakrishnan T M;Venkata Raman B (Biotechnology Dep, College of Engineering, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management, Visakhapatanam- 530 045) : Biochemical and antibacterial activities of red algae of Visakhapatnam seacoast. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(1), 115-8.

Biochemical and antibacterial activities were investigated with the crude extracts of four red algal species viz., Amphiroa fragilissima, Gelidiopsis variabilis, Gmcilaria corticate and Hypnea muciformis to evaluate the total carbohydrate, protein and lipid content and their antibacterial activity against gram positive and gram negative bacteria. Carbohydrate content was found to be high in Gracilaria corticata whereas, protein and lipid content were high in Hypnea muciformis. Chloroform-methanol, n-butanol and diethyl ether extracts of all four red algal species showed different levels of antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis.

4 tables, 20 ref

013768   Raghuram H;Chattopadhyay B;Nathan P T; Sripathi K (Animal Behaviour and Physiology Dep, School of Biological Sciences, Maduraj Kamaraj Univ, Madurai-625 021) : Sex ratio, population structure and roost fidelity in a free-ranging colony of Indian false vampire bat, Megaderma lyra. Curr Sci 2006, 91(7), 965-8.

Studies sex ratio, population structure and roost fidelity in Indian false vampire bat, Megaderma lyra for four years using mark-recapture method, in a free-ranging colony at Pannian cave, Madurai, South India. Jolly-Seber analysis of mark-recapture data showed variable fluctuation in population size of both sexes. The population size from 2001 to 2004 varied from 138 to 37 for males and 213 to 61 for females. In all the years, females outnumbered males and sex ratio ranged between 0.2 and 0.3. Compared to males, females exhibited low roost fidelity, and also showed high percentage of emigration across four years. However, there is no significant difference in percentage of immigration between the sexes. Predicts that bats exhibit sexually dimorphic dispersal behaviour that depends on time and space, similar to other mammals and hypothesizes a few reasons for this dispersal, including population density, habitat destruction and inbreeding avoidance.

2 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

013767   Quresh A A;Prakash T;Patil T;Swamy A H M V; Gouda A V;Prabhu K;Ramachandra Setty (NO, S.C.S. College of Pharmacy, Harapanahalli-583 131, Email: rssiddamsetty@rediffmail.com) : Hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of flowers of calotrpis procera (Ait)R.Br.in CCl4 induced hepatic damage. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(3), 304-10.

Hepatoprotective activity of 70% ethanolic extract of flowers of C. procera was studied against CCl₄ induced hepatic injury in albino rats and mice. In addition, antioxidant activity was studied by in vitro models. Pre-treatment with 70% ethanolic extract (CPA) reduced the biochemical markers of hepatic injury like serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase, serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, cholesterol, HDL and tissue glutathione (GSH) levels. Similarly pretreatment with CPA reduced the CCl₄ induced elevation in the pentobarbitone sleeping time. Histopathological observations also revealed that pretreatment with CPA protected the animals from CCl₄ induced liver damage. CPA demonstrated dose dependant reduction in the in vitro and in vivo lipid peroxidation induced by CCl₄. In addition it showed dose dependant free radical scavenging activity. The results indicate that flowers of C. procera possess hepatoprotective property possibly because of its anti-oxidant activity. This property may be attributed to the quercetin related flavonoids present in the flowers of Calotropis procera.

2 illus, 2 tables, 29 ref

013766   Punzo F;Ludwig L (Biology Dep, University of Tampa, 401 W. Kennedy Blivd. Tampa, Florida 33606, USA) : Responses of the whipscorpion, Mastigoproctus liochirus (Arachnida, Uropygi) to environmental humidity. J envir Biol 2006, 27(4), 619-22.

Experiments were conducted to determine the responses of third-instar nymphs of the whipscorpion Mastigoproctus liochirus to various moisture (relative humidity) levels under constant temperature conditions, using a linear humidity gradient apparatus. No previous data exist on the water relations of this uropygid. Under saturated conditions (100% RH) animals showed no preference for any section of the chamber. When a humidity gradient was established (20 to 100% RH), whipscorpions exhibited a marked preference for an area of the chamber characterized by 70 to 80% RH.

2 illus, 24 ref

013765   Prasad V;Ballal S M;Shivananda P G (Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal-576 104, Email: mamatha98@yahoo.com) : Paraffin baiting system for demonstration of growth and biofilm profilm production in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(3), 258-60.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the commonest pathogens among the pseudomonads. This organism can grow in minimal nutritional requirements. Because of the ability of pseudomonads to grow on paraffin is not commonly found among other human pathogens and the primary human pathogen being P. ckruginosa, studies the adaptation of this organism to paraffin baiting system for growth and biofilm formation. Strains were tested for the capacity to use paraffin as the sole source of carbon using Czapek's minimal salt medium. Of the 53 clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa, 20 strains exhibited growth by 24 hrs and 42 strains by 48 hrs. The remaining strains did not show any growth in the paraffin baiting system. The oxidase test with the paraffin baiting system was also performed. This simple and inexpensive method can be used to isolate and demonstrate the biochemical and biofilm forming capacity of the organism.

1 table, 21 ref

013764   Pinki Rani;Sharma M;Vijay Kumar;Pundir C S (Bio Science Dep, Biochemistry Research Laboratory, M D Univ, Rohtak-124 001, Email: pundircs@rediffmail.com) : Immobilization of amylase onto arylamin glass beads affixed inside a plastic beaker: Kinetic properties and application. Indian J Biotechnol 2007, 6(2), 230-3.

Commercial fungal amylase (diastase) has been immobilized through diazetization onto zirconia coated arylamine glass beads, affixed inside a plastic beaker. The immobilized enzyme retained 73.3% of the initial activity of free enzyme with a conjugation yield of 8 mg/g. Optimum pH of enzyme was decreased, while temperatures for maximum activity, energy of activation, time of incubation and K_m for starch were increased after immobilization. The utility of immobilized enzymes in removal of starch stain from cotton cloth by various detergents was tested by chemical method. All the detergents gave better washing in presence of immobilized amylase than that by detergent alone. Further, the washing by cheaper (non-enzymic) detergents in presence of immobilized amylase was almost similar to that by expensive (enzymic) detergents. The immobilized enzyme was used about 100 times without any considerable loss of activity.

2 tables, 6 ref

013763   Philomina D;Ravikumar J;Bharathi P (Biotechnology Dep, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamilnadu) : Ferulic acid bioconversion into vanillin by high and low-density cultures of Pycnoporus cinnabarinus with different carbon and nitrogen sources. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(1), 27-30.

Efficiency of ferulic acid bioconversion into vanillin by low and high density cultures of Pycnoporus cinnabarinus NCIM No. 1181 with various carbon and nitrogen sources were studied. The mixed medium with maltose as carbon source and ammonium dihydrogen orthophosphate as nitrogen source was found to be the best for the synthesis of vanillin (22.42 mg/l), though the increase in biomass was medium, compared to other carbon sources such as glucose and fructose and nitrogen sources such as ammonium chloride and ammonium sulphate. The direct correlation of high biomass with increased vanillin synthesis was estabilished for the mixed medium. Glucose and fructose as carbon source and ammonium chloride, ammonium sulphate as nitrogen sources though resulted in increased biomass, were found to be inefficient for the bioconversion of ferullic acid into vanillin.

2 illus, 13 ref

013762   Patnaik P R (NO, Institute of Microbial Technology, Sector 39-A, Chandigah- 160 036) : A reappraisal of the plasmid stability problem in chemostat culture. Indian J Biotechnol 2007, 6(2), 267-70.

Segregational instability models of recombinant bacteria conventionally assume that (a) the probability of loss of a unit of a plasmid is constant and (b) upon cell division, the progeny either inherit the mother's plasmid content entirely or not at all. However, two previous studies have shown that neither assumption is correct. So, in this work, both assumptions have been relaxed to formulate a more general model of plasmid dynamics in a chemostat. Unlike earlier work, this model predicts a time-dependent dilution rate to maximize segregational stability. Some biological implications are discussed.

11 illus, 3 tables, 1 ref

013761   Patil D W;Singh H;Belsare S S (Department of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, Shirgaon-415 612) : Evaluation of α-amalyase supplemented dier for the post-larve of Macrobrachium rosenbergii. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 689-93.

Study was conducted to evaluate food conversion ratio protein efficiency ratio, assimilation, assimilation efficiency, metabolism, gross growth efficiency, net growth efficiency, relative growth rate, consumption/unit weight/day, conversion rate, protein digestibility coefficient and lipid digestibility coefficient on the post-larvae of M. rosenbergii with α-amylase supplemented diet. The enzyme α-amylase (LOBA CHEMIE PVT LTD, Bombay, INDIA) was supplemented at the rate of 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4 % in control diet and served as experimental diet viz. T₁, T₂, T₃ and T₄. Experiment was conducted in duplicate for ten days. Maximum protein efficiency ratio (1.31), assimilation (0.065 g), assimilation efficiency (97.2%), metabolism (0.034 g), gross growth efficiency (45.87%), net growth efficiency (47.18%), conversion rate (0.046), protein digestibility co-efficient (64.30%) and better food conversion ratio (2.18) were observed in post-larvae fed with diet T₂ and it was found to be significantly different (P <60 0.05) from the control diet.

2 tables, 15 ref

013760   Patel R K;Oza S M;Dodia M S;Singh S P (NO, Christ College, Saurashtra Univ, Rajkote) : Optimization of alkaline protease from alkaliphilic actinomycete isolated from alkaline soil of Bhuj, Gujarat, India. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(1), 107-10.

Three alkaliphilic actinomycetes were isolated from alkaline soil of Bhuj, Gujarat, India. All the three isolates were able to grow luxuriously at pH 10. Alkaline protease production was optimal in exponential phase of growth. The maximum enzyme secretion was observed in presence of Glucose (1%, w/v) and peptone (0.5%, w/v) as the sole source of carbon and nitrogen respectively. The growth and enzyme production was found to be suppressed with NH₄C1 (0.5%, w/v) and Urea (0.5%, w/v). Cations Ca⁺⁺, Mn⁺⁺ (20 mM) repressed enzyme production significantly with higher growth. Whereas, Mg⁺ (20 mM) found have lesser repressed effect on enzyme production with slight enhancement in growth. Whey supplemented with K²HPO₄ (1%, w/v) enhanced the protease activity by two fold.

5 illus, 14 ref

013759   Pang Y;Li X;Qin S;Zhang H;Chen J (Institute of Biophysics, Academy Sinica, 15 Datun Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China, Email: hjzhang@sun5.ibp.ac.cn) : Mechanism of inhibition of Ca<. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2006, 43(6), 351-9.

Mechanism of inhibition of Ca²⁺-transport activity of rabbit sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPase (SERCA) by anisodamine (a drug isolated from a medicinal herb Hyoscyamus niger L) was investigated by using ANS (l-anilino-8-naphthalenesulfonate) fluorescence probe, intrinsic fluorescence quenching and Ca²⁺-transport activity assays. The number of ANS binding sites for apo Ca²⁺-ATPase was determined as 8, using a multiple-identical binding site model. Both anisodamine and Ca²⁺ at millimolar level enhanced the ANS binding fluorescence intensities. Only anisodamine increased the number of ANS molecules bound by SERCA from 8 to 14. The dissociation constants of ANS to the enzyme without any ligand, with 30 mM anisodamine and with 15 mM Ca²⁺ were found to be 53.0 μ.M, 85.0 μM and 50.1 μ.M, respectively. Both anisodamine and Ca²⁺ enhanced the ANS binding fluorescenc with apparent dissociation constants of 7.6 mM and 2.3 mM, respectively, at a constant concentration of the enzyme. Binding of anisodamine significantly decreased the binding capacity of Ca²⁺ with the dissociation constant of 9.5 mM, but binding of Ca²⁺ had no obvious effect on binding of anisodamine. Intrinsic fluorescence quenching and Ca²⁺-transport activity assays gave the dissociation constants of anisodamine to SERCA as 9.7 and 5.4 mM, respectively, which were consistent with those obtained from ANS-binding fluorescence changes during titration of SERCA with anisodamine and anisodamine +15 mM Ca²⁺, respectively. The results suggest that anisodamine regulates Ca²⁺-transport activity of the enzyme, by stabilizing the trans-membrane domain in an expanded, inactive conformation, at least at its annular ring region.

6 illus, 2 tables, 42 ref

013758   Panesar R;Singh R S;Panesar P S;Bera M B (Biotechnology Dep, Punjabi University, Patiala- 147 002) : Screening of matrics for the immobilization of yeast cells for lactose hydrolysis. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(1), 161-4.

Investigation deals with the screening of different immobilization matrices to develop a suitable immobilized cell system for the lactose hydrolysis. The different immobilization matrices such as agarose, carrageenan, agar-agar alginate were used for immobilization of permeabilized yeast cells for their use in the lactose hydrolysis. The yeast cells immobilized in different matrices showed varied degree of hydrolysis. Out of these tested matrices, alginate entrapped cells showed maximum lactose hydrolysis. The maximum lactose hydrolysis was observed with 2% (w/v) alginate concentration after 150 min of incubation period.

5 illus, 12 ref

013757   Pagarkar A U;Basu S;Mitra A;Sahu N P (Agricultural & Food Engg Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal) : Preparation of bio-fermented and acid silage from fish waste and its biochemical characteristic. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(2), 381-7.

Under utilized fishes are generally used for preparation of various value added products such as surimi, exteruded fish products and various types of other fish paste products. After extracting meat portion from the fish, remaining body parts which includes heads, fins, guts and scales etc. are disposed as waste. The disposal of waste (by-products) generated during fish processing is becoming a major problem for environmental pollution. The study was carried out to utilize fish waste eco-friendly by ensiling with lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacilli plantrum) sulphuric acid-and mixture of organic acids (formic acid and propionic acid in 1:1 ratio) at different concentrations. 4% (w/w) sulphuric acid and 4% (w/w) mixture of organic acids formic acid and propionic acid in 1:1 ratio was found suitable for fish silage preparation. Biochemical changes, its composition, nutritive values and advantages of bio-fermented fish waste silage comparison with sulphuric acid and mixture of organic acids are discussed.

2 tables, 24 ref

013756   Padmaja C K;Seethalakshmi C (Botany Dep, Avinashilingam Deemed Univ, Coimbatore 641 043) : Synergistic effect of Rhizobium and Pseudomonas fluorescens on growth and yield of cluster bean Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.). Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(2), 263-5.

Pot culture experiment was conducted to assess the combined effect of Rhizobium (seed encapsulation) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (soil and foliar application) on growth and yield parameters of cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.). There were five treatments : T₁ - Absolute control; T₂ - Pseudomonas fluorescens (soil application); T₃ - Rhizobium (seed encapsulation); T₄ - Rhizobium and Pseudomonas fluorescens; T₅ - Pseudomonas fluorescens as foliar spray. Plant samples at various stages (30,60, 90 DAS) were analyzed for biometric and yield parameters. It can be deduced from the findings that, treatment T₄ (dual inoculation of Pseudomonas fluorescens and Rhizobium), not only influenced the biometric parameters like, plant height from 23.5 cm to 65.6 cm, plant fresh and dry weight from 0.97 g to 6.63 g and 0.3 g to 0.4 g and root volume from 0.67 cu.mm. to 1.6 cu.mm. but also significantly enhanced other yield parameters like number of pods per plant 5.33, pod weight per plant 1.83 g and single fruit weight 1.9 g compared to other treatments and an absolute control.

2 tables, 7 ref

013755   Omar A F;Sijam K;Habibuddin H;Sulaiman I (Plant Protection Dep, Faculty of Agriculture, Putra Malaysia Univ, 43400, ) : Isolation and detection of Spiroplasma citri the causal agent of citrus stubborn disease in Egypt. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(2), 373-9.

Spiroplasma citri was isolated from common orange (Citrus sinensis) trees showing typical symptoms of citrus stubborn disease in Egypt. The organism was isolated from young leaves. Fried-egg shape colonies were obtained when S. citri was subcultured on C-3G solid medium. S. citri was detected using dark-field microscope, electron microscope, ELISA, and Dienes' stain. Small helical filamentous and small round bodies were observed by dark field microscope, whereas electron microscope inspection detected helical structure of the filamentous organism and vesicular blebs on the filaments. Moreover, electron microscope examination of ultra-thin sections of leaf midribs of stubborn infected-citrus plants revealed the presence of numerous polymorphic bodies of S. citri in the phloem tissue. The isolated organism was confirmed by a positive reaction in ELISA test. Dienes' stain was used successfully to detect plant disease infected by S.

11 illus, 33 ref

013754   Nithya K;Mohankumar A (P.G. and Reasearch Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Sengunthar Arts and Science College, Tiruchengode-637 205) : Incidence and antibotic resistance of plasmid borne avian pathogens from poultry. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 551-6.

Presence of some human entero - pathogens in poultry is responsible for much of the food - borne out breaks of illness worldwide. The in vitro antibacterial activity of 10 antimicrobials against 75 Esdierichia coli, 15 Salmonella spp., and 75 Streptococcus spp., were studied. Fourteen antibiotypes were identified in Esdierichia coli, two antibiotypes were identified in Salmonella spp., and twenty two antibiotypes were identified in Streptococcus spp.,. The multiple antibiotic resistant (MAR) index of the isolates were higher than 0.2 suggesting their origin from a high risk source of contamination where antibiotics often used. These organisms could have been .transmitted horizontally between them and prevailed in the reservoirs for prolonged periods. One step and multi step antibiotic resistant mutants were isolated. The organisms were plasmid borne with, 7421 bp molecular weight.

3 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

013753   Niimi H;Komai Y;Yamaguchi S (NO, National Cardiovascular Center Research Institute, Suita, Osaka 5658565, Japan) : Blood flow regulation in the cerebral microvasculature with an arcadal network A numerical simulation. Indian J expl Biol 2006, 45(1), 41-7.

Blood flow regulation in the cerebral microvasculature with an arcadal network was investigated using a numerical simulation. A mathematical model for blood flow in the arcadal network, based on in vivo data of cat cerebral microvasculature and flow velocity was developed. The network model consists of 45 vessel segments and 25 branching points. To simulate micro vascular response to blood flow, non-reactive (solid), cerebral arteriole-Iike, or skeletal muscle arteriole-like responses to wall shear stress were taken into account. Numerical calculation was carried out in the flow condition where the inlet (arterial) pressure was changed from 60 to 120 mmHg. Flow-rate in each efferent vessel and the mean flow-rate over all efferent vessels were -evaluated for assessment of blood supply to the local area of cerebral tissue. The simulation demonstrated the wall shear stress-induced vasodilation in the arcadal network worked to maintain the blood flow at a constant level with pressure variable in a wide range. It is suggested that an individual microvessel (segment) should join in the regulatory process of flow, interacting with other microvessels (cooperative regulation).

5 illus, 31 ref

013752   Navalakhe R M;Nandedkar T D (NO, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel Mumbai-400 012, Email: cellbioirr.com) : Application of nanotechnology in biomedicine. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(2), 160-5.

Nanotechnology is the development of engineered devices at the atomic, molecular and macromolecular level in nanometer range. Nanoparticles have potential application in medical field including diagnostics and therapeutics. Nanotechnology devices are being developed for diagnosis of cancer and infectious diseases which can help in early detection of the disease. Advances in nanotechnology also proved beneficial in therapeutic field such as drug discovery, drug delivery and gene/protein delivery. Nanoparticles can be constructed, by various methodology so that effect can be targeted at desired site. Some of the applications of nanoparticles in medicine as diagnostics and therapeutics which can be employed safely at the clinical level have been described. On other hand, as the particles become generally smaller their likehood of causing harm to the lung increases. Therefore, there is a need to study safety of nanoparticles.

^iia28 ref

013751   Narsian V;Patel H H (Life Sciences Dep, Bhavnagar Univ, Bhavnagar-364002) : Biodiversity of phosphate solubilizing microorganisms in various rhizosphere soils of Bhavnagar district. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(2), 201-4.

Diversity of phosphate solubilizing microorganisms in rhizpsphere soils of cereals, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables and orchards in Bhavnagar district was found to be distributed in 9 bacterial, 5 fungal and 8 yeast genera. Each rhizosphere had its own common, frequent and occasional phosphate solubilizing microbes. The most dominant bacterial genera were Bacillus and Pseudomonas; fungal genera include Aspergillus and Penicillium whereas yeast genera comprised of Debaryomyces, 'Hansenula and Saccharomyces. Some of the phosphate solubilizers were found to occur in all rhizospheres but their frequency and percentage occurrence, on individual plant cover, varied. The maximum halo zone of phosphate solubilization was noted for Bacillus sp. and Pseudomonas sp. (1-20 mm), Aspergillus sp. and Penicillium sp. (2-10 mm) and Debaryomyces sp., Geotrichum sp. and Issatchenkia sp. (2-6 mm). On the basis of phosphate solubilization efficiency the major groups of microorganism could be arranged in descending order: bacteria 62> fungi 62> yeast.

5 tables, 15 ref

013750   Narayan K P;Shalini;Tiwari S;Pabbi S;Dhar D W (Centre for Conservation and Utilisation of Blue Green Algae, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012) : Biodiversity analysis of selected cyanobacteria. Curr Sci 2006, 91(7), 947-51.

Cyanobacterial strains of Nostoc, Anabaena and Calothrix were examined for pigments, carbohydrates, total soluble proteins and enzymes related to N-metabolism. Total chlorophyll content was highest in Anabaena followed by Nostoc and Calothrix. Calothrix exhibited highest carotenoid content followed by Anabaena and Nostoc. In Anabaena, allophycocyanin was highest, followed by phycoerythrin and phycocyanin. In Nostoc and Calothrix, phycoerythrin was highest followed by allophycocyanin and phycocyanin. Carbohydrate content and total soluble proteins varied amongst various isolates and a notable difference was seen in nitrate reductase and glutamine synthetase (transferase) activity. Based upon the similarity matrix, a dendrogram was constructed using SIMQUAL software. Inter/intrageneric similarity was recorded for physiological parameters when assigned equal importance, and some of the cyanobacterial isolates exhibited either no or only 6% similarity. All the clusters showed isolates from more than one genus, thus indicating that the cyanobacterial genera cannot be differentiated based upon physiological parameters alone.

5 illus, 32 ref

013749   Naoroji R (NO, , B-27, Gautam Marg, Hanuman Nagar, Jaipur-302 021, Email: sangha@datainfosys.net) : Birds recorded during seven expeditions to Ladakh from 1997 to 2003. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 290-304.

Consolidated results of seven ornithological expeditions to Ladakh, Indian Trans-Himalayas during summers of 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003 and autumns of 1997, 2000 are documented with information on habitat, abundance, distribution and status. Interesting sightings and observations are presented in greater detail together with records from previous studies of the area. A total of 122 bird speceis were recorded including four new records for the area. The adverse impact of tourism, overgrazing and other factors on the fragile ecosystem of this remote area are discussed and recommendations made for protection of the habitat for pregnable, endemic bird species.

1 illus, 27 ref

013748   Nandani N (Dep of Enviormental Science (Jana bharthi), Banglore university, Banglore-560 056) : Biofilm forming bacteria in drinking water distribution system Banglore north taluk, India. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 695-9.

Biofilms are an important survival mechanism for many extra cellular parasites. The development of bacterial-population as biofilms within the water distribution System in the northern part of Bangalore city has led to experience long-term bacteriological problems. The work examines the presence of biofilm bacteria by using Scanning Electron Microscopy(SEM) to investigate the nature and extent of association of microorganisms with these surfaces. The water samples with more than 10² CFU/l00ml burdened with Pseudomonas aeruginosa,. Salmonella typhii., E. coli. and Enterococcus faecalis. Observed during pre and post monsoon were considered for the study of biofilm formation. These strains were resistant to antimicrobial agents and their MAR index exceeded 0.2 and addition were more typically tolerant to metal salts. The complex nature of MAR phenotypes which are able to survive higher concentration of metals, form biofilm coating on pipelines, aspects of which are presented in this paper.

1 table, 12 ref

013747   Nallasamy R;Nirmala K;Kalaiselvi K (Mathematics Dep, K.N. Govt. Arts College for Women, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu) : Genetic algorithms of decision support in the case of fuzzy congnitive maps. Biosci Res Bull 2006, 22(2), 139-45.

Fuzzy cognitive maps (FCMs) are signed directed graphs used to model complex systems, which cannot be analysed easily and involve human judgement such as biological processes, medicine, social issues, engineering analysis design, economic or political systems where the vast arrays of inputs and outputs could not possibly be captured analytically or controlled in any conventional sense. Fuzzy cognitive maps are used to model the evolution of scenarios with time. FCM model is developed to handle a complex system of imprecise information. The system may consist of large number of concepts or components. Genetic Algorithms (GA) are extensively used as search and optimization tools. Normally FCMs can be used in decision support for predicting future slates if an initial state is given. These tools (FCM and GA) are usedto search for optimized initial state that has lead to the goal state -Tobacco and alcohol related cancers.

15 ref

013746   Nair R;Shah A;Baluja S;Chanda S (Department of Biosciences, Saurshtra University, Rajkot-360 005, Email: sumitrachanda@yahoo.com) : Comparison of antibacterial activities of some natural and synthetic compounds. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 503-8.

Study describes the antibacterial activity of two natural and eight synthetic compounds. The two natural compounds were the leaves of Punica granatum and Maytenus emarginata . The eight synthetic compounds were Schiff bases derived from sulfonamide, 4-amino antipyrene and raceacetophenone. Both natural and synthetic compounds were screened for antibacterial activity against few clinical isolates (isolated from Urine, Blood, Tracheal secretion and Pus). The Schiff bases produced were 1) 4-[2-aza-2- (2-chlorophenyl) vinyl] benzene sulfonamide [ADI] (2) 4-[2-aza-2- (2-hydroxyphenyl) vinyl] benzene sulfonamide [AD2] (3) [l-aza-4-phenylbuta-l, 3-dienyl] benzene sulfonamide [AD3] (4) 4-[l-aza-2- (2-chlorophenyl) vinyl] 2,3 - dimethyl-l-phenyl-3-pyrazolin-5-one [AS1] (5) 4-[l-aza-2- (2- hydroxyphenyl) vinyl]- 2,3-dimethyl-l-phenyl-3-pyrazolin-5-one [AS2] (6) 4-[l-aza-4-phenylbuta-1, 3-dienyl] 2,3-dimethyl-l-phenyl-3-pyrazolin-5-one [ASS] (7) 4-[2-aza-l -methyl-2- (2-nitro_p henyl) viny]-6-ethylbenzene,l-3-diol [ADS1] (8) 4-[2-aza-2- (5-ehtyl-2,4-dihydroxyphenyl) prop-1-enyl] benzene sulfonamide [ADS2]. Extracts of these compounds (both natural and synthetic) were tried on 5 pathogenic E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Klebsiella pneumonias and Staphylococcus aureus] strains. The antibacterial activity was evaluated by the Agar Ditch method. Both natural and synthetic compounds were extracted in DMF (polar) and 1,4 Dioxan (non polar). Among the medicinal plants studied, P.granatum showed strong activity against K.pneumoniae, S.aureus and P.aeruginosa but showed moderate activity against E.coli and P.vulgahs while M.emarginata showed strong activity against K.pneumoniae, S.aureus and E.coli but showed moderate activity against P.aeruginosa. and P.vulgaris. Amongst the two natural compounds P. granatum was better than M. emarginata; while amongst the synthetic compounds, sulfonamide moiety with Cinnamaldehyde side chain (ADS) proved to be the best. The non-polar solvent 1,4 Dioxan proved to be the best. It appears that some of these natural and synthetic compounds with particular structure cold be used as a lead molecule in drug designing to combat the diseases caused by these bacteria.

3 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

013745   Nagireddy P;Rao M R (Zoology Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh) : Influence of doxorubicin on selected enzyme activity levels involved in energy metabolism in the major tissues of albino rat. Biosci Res Bull 2006, 22(2), 111-8.

Doxorubicin (Dox) is an anthracycline antibiotic with broad-spectrum anti-tumor activity. It's effectiveness has been limited by the occurrence of dose-related myocardial and bone marrow toxicity. The study examined the dose and time related effect of Dox on selected enzymes like ATPase and Cytochrome-c-oxidase activity levels involved in energy metabolism of albino rat tissues. The study utilized adult albino rats (120 ± 5 g.). They were divided into 8 groups of 7 animals each and were kept under standard laboratory conditions. The experimental animals were received 10 mg and 30 mg of Dox/kg body wt of animal over 5 and 10 weeks. The enzyme activity levels like ATPase and Cytochrome-c-oxidase under Dox stress were found to be altered significantly. It is reported that long term use of Dox disrupts the overall energy metabolism and this impair may lead to cytotoxicity

2 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

013744   Muthuvelayudham R;Deiveegan S;Viruthagiri T (Chemical Engineering Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar 608 002) : Triggering of cellulase protein production using cellulose with lactose by Trichoderma reesei. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(2), 249-51.

Production of cellulase protein in batch culture was studied using Trichoderma reesei on the mixtures of cellulose and lactose. The work was carried out for the various mixtures of lactose and cellulose for the period of seven days. The cellulase activity, amount of substrate and amount of protein were estimated by standard methods. In mixed substrates a diauxic pattern of utilization of the two carbon sources were observed. The lactose was utilized first to support growth, followed by cellulose to induce the cellulase protein production and provide and additional carbon source for cellular metabolism. The kinetic study were also made for both growth and product formation.

3 illus, 9 ref

013743   Mukherjee S;Yadav B R (Project Directorate on Cattle, , Post Box 17, Meerut Cantt-250 001) : Differential banding patterns in sex chromosomes of crossbred goats. Indian J Dairy Sci 2006, 59(4), 252-6.

Staining behaviour of sex chromosomes was studied in crossbred goats. The study was conducted on eight normal animals (two males and two females each of two crossbreds groups) and seven problem-breeding animals. Chromosomes stained with conventional Giemsa dye, CBG-banding and RBG-banding techniques were evaluated. The Giemsa stained metaphase plates of normal animals revealed 60, XY in males and 60, XX in females. The acrocentric X-chromosome showed small C-band around the centromere similar to autosomes. The Y-chromosome, which is a minute submetacentric, did not show any localized C-bands. However, it was stained uniformly a little darker than the chromatids of autosomes. The observation on R- banding with BrdU incorporation followed by fluorescence-photolysis-Giemsa staining (RBG) showed characteristic pattern for each chromosome pair. The sex chromosomes showed unique pattern in X and Y-chromosomes. The X-chromosome in male revealed dark and light band pattern as in all the autosomes, however, the Y-chromosome showed uniform staining pattern. In females, one - X chromosome showed alternate dark and light R-bands, while the other-X was either completely pale or showed one or a few pairs of dark-bands. The problem breeding animals showed usual pattern of their phenotypic sex.

8 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

013742   Mohan B S;Hosetti B B (Biotechnology Dep, R.V. College of Engineering, Mysore Board, Bangalore-560 059, Email: mohanbettageri@yahoo.com) : Phytotoxicity of cadmium on the physiological dynamics of Salvinia natans L. grown in macrophyte ponds. J envir Biol 2006, 27(4), 701-4.

Ojective of this experiment is to study the potential ability of Salvinia natans L. to use in phytoassay for the cadmium toxicity in ecotoxicological studies. It is a simple and cost competitive method. The sensitivity of S. natans in terms of biochemical changes and enzyme activities to Cd²⁺ was remarkably noticeable. The catalase and protease activity was significantly decreased in the presence of cadmium, with increase of peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activity. The level of protein, carbohydrate and chlorophyll decreased and proline content increased in plants. The maximum permissible concentration of cadmium in different general water quality standards was evaluated and found that cadmium standard is not stringent enough.

1 table, 17 ref

013741   Mishra R S;Ansari K K;Prakash S (Department of Zoology, Lchthyology lab., M.I.K. (P.G.) coolege, Balrampur-271 201) : Ecology of baghel tal with reference to primary productivity and potentially of fish production. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 711-5.

Limnological and nutrients status of soil studies of Baghel tal were conducted from Oct-2002-Sept.2003 to find out the physico-chemical condition of soil and water and its impact on planktonic population. The study revealed that clayey texture of soil and its rich nutrients are found conducive to high fish production.

6 tables, 22 ref

013740   Mir H A;Rajawat J;Pradhan S;Rasheedunnisa Begum (Biochemistrty Dep, Faculty of Science, M.S. Unive of Baroda, Vadodara-390 002, , Email: rasheeda@icenet.co.in) : Signaling molecules involved in the transition of growth to development of Dictyostelium discoideum. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(3), 223-6.

Social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum, a powerful paradigm provides clear insights into the regulation of growth and development. In addition to possessing complex individual cellular functions like a unicellular eukaryote, D. discoideum cells face the challenge of multicellular development. D.I discoideum undergoes a relatively simple differentiation process mainly by cAMP mediated pathway. Despite this relative simplicity, the regulatory signaling pathways are as complex as those seen in metazoan development. However, the introduction of restriction-enzyme-mediated integration (REMI) technique to produce developmental gene knockouts has provided novel insights into the discovery of signaling molecules and their role in D. discoideum development. Cell cycle phase is an important aspect for differentiation of D. discoideum, as cells must reach a specific stage to enter into developmental phase and specific cell cycle regulators are involved in arresting growth phase genes and inducing the developmental genes. Presents an overview of the signaling molecules involved in the regulation of growth to differentiation transition (GDT), molecular mechanism of early developmental events leading to generation of cAMP signal and components of c AMP relay system that operate in this paradigm.

1 table, 4 illus, 92 ref

013739   Meiselman H J;Neu B;Rampling M W;Baskurt O K (Physiology and Biophysics Dep, Keck School of Medicine, 1333 San Pablo Street, MMR 626 Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA, Email: meiselma@usc.edu) : RBC aggregation: Laboratory data and models. Indian J expl Biol 2006, 45(1), 9-17.

Reversible aggregation of red blood cells (RBC) into linear and three-dimensional structures continues to be of basic science and clinical interest: RBC aggregation affects low shear blood viScosity and microvascular flow dynamics, and can be markedly enhanced in several clinical states. Until fairly recently, most research efforts were focused on relations between suspending medium composition (i.e., protein levels, polymer type and concentration) and aggregate formation. However, there is now an increasing amount of experimental evidence indicating that RBC cellular properties can markedly affect aggregation, with the term "RBC aggregability" coined to describe the cell's intrinsic tendency to aggregate. Variations of aggregability can be large, with some changes of aggregation substantially greater than those resulting from pathologic states. The present review provides a brief overview of this topic, and includes such areas as donor-to-donor variations, polymer-plasma correlations, effects of RBC age, effects of enzymatic treatment, and current developments related to the mechanisms involved in RBC aggregation.

6 illus, 49 ref

013738   Mehrzia M;Ferid L;Mohamed A;Ezzedine A (Laboratoire de Physiologie de la Nutrition, Faculte des Sciences de T, Campus Universitaire El Manar II, 2092 Tunis, Tunisia) : Acute effects of a partially purified fraction from garlic on plasma glucose and cholesterol levels in rats: putative involvement of nitric oxide. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2006, 43(6), 386-90.

Garlic has been extensively used as a medicinal plant. Most of its numerous beneficial effects such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antitumoral involve sulfur-derived amino acids reevaluated the acute effects of aqueous extract of garlic on plasma glucose and cholesterol levels in normal rats. Control (vehicle H₂O) or garlic extract-treated group at 100-120 mg protein/kg body wt were intraperitoneally injected (IP) and glucose, cholesterol, insulin and nitric oxide metabolites levels were determined after a short-term duration of 6 h. It is confirmed that garlic contained an active fraction, exerting both glucose and cholesterol-lowering activity. The glucose-lowering effect was triggered by an increase in insulinemia. Preliminary study indicated that the active agent was different from S-allyl-cysteine-sulfoxide, the active principle implicated in hypoglycaemic and hypolipidemic effects of garlic or arginine. The mechanism of action seemed to involve nitric oxide (NO), which increased time and dose-dependently. The garlic effects were abolished by diphenyleneiodonium chloride (DPI = 1 mg/kg body wt), a specific inhibitor of NO production, suggesting the involvement of constitutive nitric oxide synthase.

^ssc3 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

013737   Meena M;Pasupathy K (Biochemistry Dep, P.S.G College of Arts & Science, Coimbatore-641021) : Antidiabetic activity of Catharanthus roseus in Alloxan induced diabetics rats. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(2), 209-12.

Hypoglycemic activity of Catharanthus roseus is tested in Alloxan induced Diabetic rats. Single dose of alloxan monohydrate solution injected intramuscularly produce persistent hyperglycemia after 24 hours and served as control Diabetic (Group II). Treatment groups are divided into two one receiving Catharanthus roseus leaf powder 4mg and 8mg, which are dissolved in 2ml of distilled water and orally administered for 6 days. Animals treated with Alloxan showed significant increase in blood glucose level (p<0.01) and a sharp decline in the liver glycogen level. In treatment group III (4 mg), there is significant reduction in blood glucose and improvement in liver glycogen level. In treatment group IV (8 mg), the blood glucose level almost returns to normal level and showed improvement in glycogen level also. The levels of SGOT, SGPT, urea and cholesterol also restored to normal in treatment groups.

1 table, 15 ref

013736   Maulika jagdish;Ghosh S K;Braganza V J (Loyla Centre for Research and Development, Xavier Research Foundation, St. Xavier's College, Ahmedabad-380 009) : Biodegredation of engine lubricating oil by hydrocarbon-degredtion strains isolated from a crude oil contaminated soil. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 717-8.

3 illus, 4 ref

013735   Mathew J P;Joseph P;Thomas V C;Thomas I (Zoology Dep, St. Berchmans' College, Changanacherry-686 101) : Glutathione and associated enzymes in toxic cataractogenesis-selenite model. J envir Biol 2006, 27(4), 733-8.

Glutathione, γ-glutamyl cysteine synthetase (γ-GCS) and glutathione reductase (GSH-R) activity were determined biochemically in the lens during various stages after subcutaneous administration of sodium selenite in multiple low dosages and single high dosages. The GSH concentration and γ-GCS and GSH-R activity declined progressively after the selenite administration. The changes observed were discussed in relation to the possible role of selenite interaction with GSH and the enzymes.

3 tables, 40 ref

013734   Mary Violet Christy A (Department of Plant Biotechnology, Thanthai hans Roever college, Perambur-621 212) : Identification of Indian Cassava mosaic virus using molecular techniques. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 641-2.

Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD), caused by Indian cassava mosaic virus in India is a major constrain for cassava cultivation. The success of disease management relies on the use of virus free planting material coupled with sensitive detection techniques. Meristem culture proved to be an important technique for virus elimination. In the present study meristem culture samples of different cassava varieties were indexed for the absence or presence of the virus. Seven varieties of cassava were established in the study. While performing 1C, SC and PC-PCR meristem cultured samples of H-165 showed amplification together with the ICMV infected cassava field samples. But meristem cultured samples of Sree prakashand H-226 showed no amplification indicating the absence of the virus.

2 illus, 4 ref

013733   Mangalagowri A;Kundu A K;Nainar A M; Palanisamy A;Ramadass P (Animal Biotechnology Dep, Madras Veterinary College, Chennai-600 007) : Effect of somatic cell coculture and chemical treatment in embryo culturing. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(2), 297-302.

Somatic cell co-culture of oviduct epithelial cell monolayer (OECC) and combination of penicillamine, hypotaurine and epinephrine (PHE) have been shown to support embryonic development from one cell stage to the morula or blastocyst stage. Fertilization of in-vitro matured ovine oocytes in the presence of oviduct epithelial cell culture in combination with PHE resulted in a higher rate of cleavage (12.5%) than observed in the presence of control medium alone. Hence it is concluded that the supplementation of OECC and PHE alone or in combination could enhance the cleavage in ovine in-vitro fertilization.

2 tables, 18 ref

013732   Mandal K;Sanjay Kumar;Yadav K (Soil Science Dep, Rajendra Agricultural Univ, Dholi Campus, Muzaffarpur, Bihar-843121) : Nodulation and survival of acid tolerant pea rhizobia in acid soils. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(2), 235-7.

Two acid and related stress tolerant pea rhizobia isolates (BRP, and BRP₃) incorporated with streptomycin resistance marker (str) were evaluated under green house condition for their survival (in rhizosphere), adhesion (on rhizosphere), effective nodulation and dry matter production by homologous host in acid soils of pH 4.6 and 5.5. A better survival of the isolates was noticed at pH 5.5. Isolate BRP₃ was superior in respect of better survival in the rhizosphere, increase adhesion on roots and inducing effective nodulation and dry matter yield by the homologous hosts.

3 tables, 13 ref

013731   Mandal A;Batabyal S K;Poddar M K (Biochemistry Dep, Univ of Calcutta, 35, B C Road, Kolkata-700 019, Email: poddarmk@yahoo.co.in) : Long-term caffeine induced inhibition of (EAC)cell progression in relation to gonadal hormonal status. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(4), 347-52.

Inhibitory action of caffeine (a tri-methylxanthine alkaloid) on progression or pathogenesis of lung, breast and ovarian cancer including Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cell development has been reported. This information led the authors to study the effect of long-term administration of caffeine (20mg/kg/day; po for 22-27 consecutive days) on the development of EAC cells in relation to serum gonadal hormones (LH, FSH, 17-OH-p-estradiol (E2) and progesterone) in adult Swiss albino female mice. Measurement of gonadal hormones in serum using RIA showed that (a) long-term caffeine treatment significantly increased LH (except for 27 consecutive days) and decreased FSH (except for 24 and 27 consecutive days) and both E2 and progesterone (except for 22 and 24 consecutive days) levels, (b) development of EAC cell for 10-15 days, significantly increased LH but decreased FSH, E2 and progesterone levels and (c) long-term caffeine consumption during the development of EAC cell (i) restored the EAC cell- or'caffeine-induced induction of LH and reduction of FSH level to their normal levels and (ii) withdrew/reduced the EAC cell-induced reduction in only E2 but not progesterone level. These results therefore, suggest that prolonged caffeine exposures may inhibit the development of EAC cell through the reduction or restoration of EAC cell-induced disruption of ovarian hormonal status to their normal status via the modulation of Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal (HPG) axis.

1 illus, 1 table, 47 ref

013730   Makhija P;Nigam V K;Mohan M K;Ghosh P;Sasamal D (NO, Birla Institute of Scientific Research, Jaipur-302 001, Email: nigam_vinod@yahoo.com) : Characterization of extracellular alkaline proteases produced by halophilic bacteria. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2006, 76(4), 362-7.

Screening of wide range of soil and sludge samples from desert regions of Rajasthan were carried out to isolate protease producing halophilic bacterial cultures. Out of several cultures, fifteen were initially screened out as protease producers, based on zone clearance studies on agar plates, containing casein and gelatin as substrates.Results of two isolates BISR 113 and BISR 116, based on various physico-chemical conditions are presented. Biochemical analysis was also performed. The two isolates showed optimal activity at pH 9 and 8.5 respectively. Enzymes produced from both isolates are quiet stable upto 55°C. Up to 50% of activity was retained after 30 min of exposure to various commercially available detergents. Butanol, hexane and toluene are more suitable as a biotransformation agent upto 30 min of incubation than chloroform and acetone.

6 illus, 4 tables, 15 ref