018276   Chitkara E;Singh N;Singh S K;Nair M;Dohare P; Baghel D S (Biochem Dep, G R Medical Coll, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh) : Changes in the levels of antioxidant enzymes in subjects with diabetic retinopathy. Flora Fauna 2007, 13(1), 229-32.

Study was planned to evaluate the levels of lipid peroxidation product and the level of Glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) in 50 normal control and 126 diabetics which.. comprised of 50 without and 76 with retinopathy respectively. Our findings suggest that lipid peroxidation increases (P<60>0.001) with increase in severity and duration of diabetes, whereas antioxidants Glutathione (GSH), Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and Superoxide dismutase (SOD) to decrease with an increase in Catalase (CAT) as the disease progresses.

1 table, 24 ref

018275   Chakraborty S;Santra S C (NO, N.V.Patel College of Pure and Applied Sciences, V V Nagar-388 120, Email: su_kalyanc@yahoo.co.uk) : Biochemical composition of eight benthic algae collected from Sunderban. Indian J Mar Sci 2008, 37(3), 329-32.

Eight abundantly found benthic algal species from Sunderban were collected and compared for their biochemical composition. The algae showed significant quantities of nutrient parameters like - total carbohydrate, reducing sugar, total protein, total free amino acid, proline, total lipid along with fatty acids. C16 and C18 PUFAs were present in maximum amount. The major fatty acids identified were 14:0, 16:0, 18:1, and 18:2, 18:3, 18:4 acids. Vitamin C was also present in small amounts. Pigments chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoids were present in considerable quantities. Individual differences were noticeable in the biochemical composition of the algae studied. Overall observation suggests their suitability for exploitation in food and pharamaceutical industry.

018274   Chakraborty S (Dep of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur-721 302) : Microfluidics Based DNA Hybridization: Mathematical modeling issues and future challenges. J Indian Inst Sci 2007, 87(1), 95-114.

In this paper, various mathematical modeling strategies associated with the analysis of the kinetics and the transport processes pertinent to microfluidics-based DNA hybridization methodologies are critically reviewed. In particular, the coupling of specific/non-specific hybridization kinetics with the fluid flow, heat transfer and mass transfer equations is described in detail. Methodologies for obtaining faster DNA hybridizaion rates are also discussed and the corresponding mathematical modeling issues are identified to define the scope of ongoing and future research endeavours.

^iia4 illus, 2 tables, 54 ref

018273   Bharadwaj A;Agarwal A;Singh S (School of Studies in Microbiol, Jiwaji Univ, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh) : Surveillance of pseudomonas aeruginosa in dairy products and its susceptibility to selected antipseudomonal drugs. Flora Fauna 2007, 13(1), 69-75.

Prevalance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was studied in dairy products namely, raw milk, paneer, mawa, dahi, ice-cream and butter. The number of samples tested in each case were raw milk, 39; paneer 26; mawa 18; dahi, 22; iceªcream, 19 and butter, 16. The highest percentage of samples positive for P aeruginosa was observed in case of paneer (53.84%). It was followed by raw milk (46.15%) and dahi (40.90%). The percentage of positive samples in case of mawa, ice-cream and butter were 33.33%, 26.33% and 31.85% respectively. The susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates to antibiotics was in order of: ciprofloxacin <62> amikacin = ceftazidine <62> gentamycin. All isolates were found to be resistant to piperacillin. Isolates were more susceptible to ciprofloxacin where zone of inhibition was 28-31 m.m. Isolates were moderately susceptible to amikacin and ceftazidime, where inhibition zone were 20-24 m.m. However isolates were comparatively resistant to gentamycin exhibiting 18-21 m.m. zone of inhibition.

7 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

017350   Zafar F;Ashraf S M;Ahmad S (Materials Research Lab, Chemistry Dep, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi-110 025) : Low temperature development of Pongamia glabra seed oil based polyesteramide without organic solvent. Bhartiya Vaigyanik Evam Audyogik Anusandhan Patrika 2007, 15(1), 44-50.

Seed oils are expected to be an ideal alternative renewable resource to petroleum-based raw materials since they are inexpensive, non-toxic, biodegradable and relatively harmless to the environment as well as are found in abundance over the world. Pongamia glabra seed oil-a non-edible and non-drying oil has found application as alkyds, epoxies and polyesteramide based protective paints and coating materials. Pongamia glabra seed oil based polyesteramide was synthesized at lower temperature (85±5 °C) in the absence of organic solvent through condensation polymerization reaction [Sf-PGPEA]. In this reaction N, N, bis- (2 hydroxyethyl) pongamia glabra fatty amide [HEPGA] and phthalic anhydride [PA] were heated at temperature lower than their onset of melting points and the by-product such as water was removed by application of vacuum technique. This approach was employed to overcome the use of volatile organic contents [VOCs] used during processing and application of resin, which are ecologically harmful as well as convert the non-edible oil into value added product. The FTIR, 1 H-NMR and 13 C-NMR spectral techniques were used to confirm the structure of Sf-PGPEA. The physico-chemical, physico-mechanical and chemical resistance properties of the resin were investigated by standard methods. DSC and TGA were used to determine respectively the curing behaviour and thermal stability of the resin. The comparative study of these properties of Sf-PGPEA with reportedpolyesteramide [PGPEA], which are normally synthesized at higher temperature in organic solvent, was done. It was found that Sf-PGPEA exhibited improved physico-mechanical, chemical resistance properties and higher thermal stability compared to PGPEA, and hence can find application as corrosion protective eco-friendly coating material.

017349   Yunxue Z;Jing L;Jingjian W;Yanli X;Meiyu G (Molecular Pharmacology and Glycobiology Dep, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 26, , Email: gengmy@ouc.edu.cn) : Role of cell surface oligosaccharides of mouse mammary tumor cell lines in cancer metastasis. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2007, 44(3), 145-51.

Malignant transformation is associated with changes in the glycosylation of cell surface proteins and lipids. In tumor cells, alterations in cellular glycosylation may play a key role in their metastatic behaviour. In the present study, we have assessed the relationship between cell surface oligosaccharides and the metastasis ability of mouse mammary tumor cell lines 67NR and 4TO7. The cell surface oligosaccharides have been analyzed using specific binding assays with some plant lectins and the metastasis ability has been studied using transwell migration and invasion assays. In addition, we investigated the role of terminal sialic acids in the metastatic potential (cell adhesion on fibronectin, cell migration and invasion) in the 4TO7 cells on treatment with neuraminidase. The cell lines used in study have different metastasis abilities in vivo - the 67NR form primary tumors, but no tumor cells are detectable in any distant tissues, while cells of the 4TO7 line are able to spread to lung. In vitro metastasis experiments have revealed higher ability of adhesion, cell migration and invasion in the 4TO7 cells than the 67NR cells. Specific lectins binding assays show that the 4TO7 cells expressed more high-mannose type, multi-antennary complex-type N-glycans, á-1,6-GlcNAc-branching, à-2,6-linked sialic acids, N-acetylgalactosamine and galactosyl(á-1,3)-N-acetylgalactosamine. Removal of sialic acids on treatment with neuraminidase decreases adhesion, but increases the migration and has shown no significant change in the invasion ability of the 4TO7 cells. The study suggests that the sialic acids are not crucial for the cell migration and invasion in the 4TO7 cells. The findings provide the new insights in understanding the role of cell surface oligosaccharides in cancer metastasis.

017348   Yu J N;Huang J;Wang Z H;Zhang J S;Chen S Y (National Key Lab of Plant Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Devlopment Biology, Chinese Academy of Scien, Beijing-100 101, Email: sychen@genetics.ac.cn) : Na<. J Biosci, Bangalore 2007, 32(6), 1153-61.

Vacuole Na⁺/H⁺ antiportcr gene TaNHX2 was obtained by screening the wheat cDNA library and by the 5'-RACE .method. The expression of TaNHX2 was induced in roots and leaves by treatment with NaCl, polyethylene glycol (PEG), cold and abscisic acid (ABA). When expressed in a yeast mutant (Δnhxl), TaNHX2 suppressed the salt sensitivity of the mutant, which was deficient in vacuolar Na⁺/H⁺ antiporter, and caused partial recovery of growth of Δnhxl in NaCl and LiCl media. The survival rate of yeast cells was improved by overexpressing the TaNHX2 gene under NaCl, KC1, sorbitol and freezing stresses when compared with the control. The results imply that TaNHX2 might play an important role in salt and osmotic stress tolerance in plant cells.

5 illus, 36 ref

017347   Yap C K;Tan S G (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia, Email: yapckong@hotmail.com) : Iron (Fe) concentrations in the byssus and soft tissues of the green-lipped mussel Perna viridis (L.): Byssus as an excretion route of Fe and Fe bioavailability in the coastal waters. Indian J Mar Sci 2007, 36(3), 227-34.

Iron (Fe) in the marine mussels has been reported to play an important role in the strength of attachment of the mussels since Fe is a major element in the attachment property on the mussel byssus. However, the distribution of Fe in the green-lipped mussel Perna viridis has not been reported in the literature. In this study, the distribution of Fe in different parts of the byssus and soft tissues of Perna viridis were investigated. It was found that the attachment plaque of the byssus accumulated the highest concentration of Fe, followed by the proximal, distal, stem and root. Iron levels were determined in the byssus and soft tissues of P. viridis collected from 12 geographical sites. It was found that the Fe levels in the byssus were the highest among all the soft tissues studied. The Fe levels could be about 3-17 times higher (P <60>0.05) in the byssus than in the different soft tissues of P. viridis. Since the byssus of blue mussel Mytilus edulis has been reported to be an excretion route for Fe, it is believed that the byssus of P. viridis is an excretion route for Fe. The Fe could be an essential metal for byssal formation and the byssus is a potential biomonitoring organ for Fe bioavailaibility in coastal waters.

017346   Yadav S;Shastri N V (Biochemistry Dep, RTM Nagpur University, Amravati Road, Nagpur-440 010, Email: sangeeta_rahul@rediffmail.com) : Purification and properties of an extracellular pectin lyase produced by the strain of Penicillium oxalicum in solid-state fermentation. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2007, 44(4), 247-51.

Pectin lyase (PNL, EC 4.2.2.10) produced extracellularly by the strain of Penicillium oxalicum in solid-state fermentation medium containing deoiled mandarin orange peel meal was purified to apparent homogeneity by a protocol that included ammonium sulfate precipitation, DEAE-Sephadex A-50 and Sephadex G-100 chromatography. The enzyme had molecular mass of 50 kD, as determined by SDS- PAGE and showed optimum pH and temperature at 8.0 and 50°C respectively. It had an isoelectric point (pI) of 5.0 and showed a K_m of 1.1 mg/ml of citrus pectin. The enzyme was strongly inhibited by Mo⁴⁺, Ag⁺ and Pb²⁺ and also by polyphenolic compounds, in particular tannic acid.

017345   Yadav R B;Singh H R;Singh R V;Yadav H S (NO, SVB Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut-250 110) : Response of lentil (Lens culinaris) cultivars to sulphur application in north Indian plains. Bhartiya Vaigyanik Evam Audyogik Anusandhan Patrika 2007, 15(1), 57-60.

A field experiment was conducted during the rabi seasons of 2003-04 and 2004-05 at research farm of KVK Rampur of SVBPUAT, Meerut, to study the response of lentil (Lens culinaris) cultivars to sulphur levels in north Indian plains. Study revealed that lentil cultivar PL-406 gave significantly maximum grain yield (17.96q/ha) on mean basis in comparison to other cultivars. The highest net income, Rs. 16496/ha and benefit: cost ratio, 2:13 was also recorded in the same variety followed by PL-4. Yield and yield attributes of lentil, protein content in grain, total production and net income increased significantly with increasing levels of suphur up to 40kg/ha. It is concluded that lentil cultivar PL-406 is most suitable variety for this region and there is deficiency of sulphur in the soils of this region, hence it is necessary to apply sulphur in these soils to obtain optimum crop growth and yield of lentil crop.

017344   Wu X;Wu T;Long J;Yin Q;Zhang Y;Chen L;Liu R; Gao T;Dong H (Key Laboratory of Monitoring and Management of Plant Pathogens and Ins, Nanjing Agricultural Univ, Nanjing-210 095, Email: hsdong@njau.edu.cn) : Productivity and biochemical properties of green tea in response to full-length functional fragments of HpaG_xooc, a harpin protein from the bacteril rice leaf streak pathogen Xanthomonas oryzae pv oryzicola. J Biosci, Bangalore 2007, 32(6), 1119-31.

Harpin proteins from plant pathogenic bacteria can stimulate hypersensitive cell death (HCD), drought tolerance, defence responses against pathogens and insects in plants, as well as enhance plant growth. Recently, author identified nine functional fragments of HpaGXooc, a harpin protein from Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola, the pathogen that causes bacterial leaf streak in rice. Fragments HpaG_1-94, HpaG_10-42, and HpaG_62-138, which contain the HpaGXnoc regions of the amino acid sequence as indicated by the numb.er spans, exceed the parent protein in promoting growth, pathogen defence and HCD in plants. Here authors report improved productivity and biochemical properties of green tea (Camellia sinensis) in response to the fragments tested in comparison with HpaGXooc and an inactive protein controMField tests suggested that the four proteins markedly increased the growth and yield of green tea, and increased theMeaf content of tea catechols, a group of compounds that have relevance in the prevention and treatment of human diseases. In particular, HpaG_1-94 was more active than HpaG_Xooc in expediting the growth of juvenile buds and leaves used as green tea material and increased the catechol content of processed teas. When tea shrubs were treated with HpaHXooc and HpaC_1-94 compared with a control, green tea yields were over 55% and 39% greater, and leaf catechols were increased by more than 64% and 72%, respectively. The expression of three homologues of the expansin genes, which regulate plant cell growth, and the CsCHS gene encoding a tea chalcone synthase, which critically regulates the biosynthesis of catechols, were induced in germinal leaves of tea plants following treatment with HpaC_1-94 or HpaG_Xooc. Higher levels of gene expression were induced by the application of HpaG_1-94 than HpaG_Xooc. Our results suggest that the harpin protein, especially the functional fragment HpaG_1-94, can be used to effectively increase the yield and improve the biochemical properties of green tea, a drink with medicinal properties.

6 illus, 7 tables, 59 ref

017343   Wadiap P;Mahale S D;Nandedkar T D (Cell Biology Dep, National Institute for Research in Reporductive Health, JM Street, Parel, Mumbai-400 012, Email: cellbioirr@hotmail.com) : Effect of the human follicle-stimulating hormone-binding inhibitor and its N-terminal fragment on follicle-stimulating hormone-induced progesterone secretion by granulosa cells in vitro. J Biosci, Bangalore 2007, 32(6), 1185-94.

Intrafollicular factors play an important role in folliculogenesis. The follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)-binding inhibitor (FSHBI), purified by our laboratory from human ovarian follicular fluid, has been shown to suppress ovulation and induce follicular atresia/apoptosis in mice as well as impair fertility in marmosets, the new world monkeys. The octapeptide, a peptide corresponding to the N-terminal region of human FSHBI (hFSHBI), has been synthesized and also shows FSHBI activity in vitro. In the present study, author has attempted to identify the mechanism of action of the peptide in granulosa cell cultures. Rat granulosa cell cultures were treated with varying concentrations of the octapeptide or partially purified hFSHBI (gel chromatography fraction hGF₂) in the presence or absence of human FSH (hFSH) and the amount of progesterone (P₄ ) secreted in the culture supernatants after 3 h/48 h was estimated. Both hGF₂ and the octapeptide failed to alter basal levels as well as 8-bromo cAMP-induced P₄ production, while FSH-induced P₄ secretion was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner. These studies reveal that the octapeptide, a fragment of FSHBI, and the native protein have similar activity in vitro and both compounds alter FSH action at the receptor level upstream of cAMP formation.

4 illus, 26 ref

017342   Vijayan M (Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Banglore-560 012) : Peanut lectin crystallography and macromolecular structural studies in India. J Biosci, Bangalore 2007, 32(6), 1059-88.

3 illus, 24 ref

017341   Vijay Kumar;Singh O P;Virendra Kumar (NO, Janta Vedic (PG) College, Baraut, Bagpat (U.P.)) : Integrated nutrient management in rice (Oryza sativa)-wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system. Bhartiya Vaigyanik Evam Audyogik Anusandhan Patrika 2007, 15(1), 37-43.

To study the effect of organic manures and chemical fertilizers in rice under western Uttar Pradesh conditions a field experiment was conducted at the research farm of Janta Vedic College, Baraut, District Bagpat (U.P.) during the rainy and winter seasons of 2003-04 and 2004-05 with rice-wheat cropping system Incorporation of organic manures (FYM, poultry manure and FYM+ poultry manure) significantly recorded higher crop growth, yield and yield attributes of rice as compared to control. Organic manures increased the mean grain yield of rice by 16.1 to 18.8% over control. However, farm yard manure, poultry manure and FYM + poultry manure produced growth and yield of rice at par. Results revealed that the combined use of farm yard and poultry manure fetched maximum mean net returns of Rs 14,755 in rice cultivation. In reference to chemical fertilizers the maximum mean grain yield of rice (45.4 q/ha) was observed with N 120 P 60 Zn 25 kg/ha. Based on two years experiments, maximum mean nitrogen uptake (94.9 kg/ha) was recorded under combined use of farm yard and poultry manures. Incorporation of organic manures caused improvement in organic carbon.

017340   Vijay Kumar;Khosla R;Ajay Kumar;Gupta V;Sarin B C (TB & Chest Dep, Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences & Research, Amristar-143 002, Email: bcsarin@yahoo.com) : Transforming growth factor beta 1 gene polymorphism in tuberculosis patients. Int J Hum Genet 2007, 7(3), 249-52.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a curable infectious disease that kills around half million individuals every year in India. Cytokines play a vital role in the pathogenesis of this deadly disease. Transforming growth factor-beta I (TGF-β1) is one of the important anti-inflammatory cytokine found to be elevated in TB patients. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the promoter of TGF-β1 cytokine gene are known to alter the production of this important cytokine. Given its immunosuppressive nature increased production of this cytokine is implicated towards susceptibility to TB. The C/T polymorphism in TGF-β1 promoter at -509 site is strongly associated with circulating levels of this cytokine and T allele is shown to be associated with its high production. Thus, in the present study we looked for association of TGF-β1 (C-509T) SNP with TB. A total of 245 subjects (145 TB patients and 100 normal healthy controls) were recruited for study. The -509 polymorphism was studied using Amplification Refractory Mutation System- Polymerase Chain Reaction (ARMS-PCR). The distribution of C/T alleles in TB patients and normal healthy controls did not reveal any statistically significant association of this polymorphism with TB (χ² = 0.04; p = 0.85).

1 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

017339   Venkatachalam P;Jayanth V R;Paul S F D (Human Genetics Dep, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute (Deemed Univ), Porur, Chennai-600 116, Email: venkip@yahoo.com) : Modification of bleomycin induced cytogenetic damages by 2-deoxy-D-glucose on normal and tumor cells. Int J Hum Genet 2007, 7(4), 307-14.

The radiomimetic drug bleomycin induced chromosomal aberrations (CA) and micronuiclei (MN) were studied in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL), as reference to normal cells and Glioma (BMG -1) as reference to tumor cells, with and without exposure to 2-deoxy D- glucose (2-DG. an analogue of glucose) Treatment with bleomycin increased both CA and MN frequency in a dose dependent manner in both cell types. The frequencies of CA are 2 fold higher than MN for a given concentration of bleomycin. Exposure to blcomycin predominantly induced exchange type chromosome aberrations. While in the presence of 2-DG the aberrations induced by bleomycin reduced significantly in PBL, the same was increased significantly in BMG cells (P<60>0.001) showing a protective effect and sensitizing effect on normal and tumor cells respectively. The dose modulatory factor (protection) for different concentration of bleomycin exposure varied between 0.38 and 0.72 for CA and 0.1 and 0.84 for MN in PBL. In the case of BMG-1 cells, the modulatory factor (sensitization) varied between 1.42 and 2.59 for CA. 1.25 and 1.66 for MN at different concentration of bleomycin exposure. The modulatory effect of 2-DG was also evidenced from the coefficients obtained for the dose-response curves of the aberrations studied. The paper discusses the types of aberrations induced by bleomycin and the mechanism involved for differential modifications of cytogenelic damage by 2-DG in normal (PBL) and tumor (Glioma) cells.

4 illus, 11tables, 34 ref

017338   Velanganni A A J;Dharaneedharan S;Geraldine P;Balasundram C (Animal Science Dep, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli-620 024, Email: bal213@rediffmail.com) : Dietary supplementation of vitamin A, C and E prevents p-dimethylaminoazobenzene induced hepatic DNA damage in rats. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2007, 44(3), 157-63.

The preventive effect of antioxidant vitamins A, C, E and their analogues against DNA damage induced by a hepatocarcinogen p-dimethylaminoazobenzene (DAB) was assessed by comet assay. For genotoxicity (DNA damage) study, male albino rats were divided into 11 groups, consisting of four rats each. Group I served as control. Group II to VII received 1, 10, 100, 200, 300 and 400 mg per kg body wt of DAB respectively; group VIII to XI received 500 mg/kg body wt of DAB. They were sacrificed by cervical decapitation 3, 6, 12 and 24 h after treatment; livers were excised immediately and subjected to comet assay to measure DNA damage. To study the effect of vitamins, experiments were conducted on a group of 275 rats divided into 3 sets of 25 rats each. First set served as control; second set received 0.06% DAB and third set received 0.06% DAB, along with analogues of vitamins A, C and E. Rats fed with 0.06% DAB were provided water ad libitum for a period of 4 months, followed by a normal (basal) diet for further 2 months. Vitamins A (10,000-50,000 IU), C (75-1000 mg) and E (50-500 mg) and their analogues were given (per kg body wt) to the third set of rats by gavage route once in a week for a period of 6 months. The DAB induced DNA damage only at the highest tested dose of 500 mg/kg body wt. Administration of high doses of vitamin A acid, L-ascorbic acid and vit. E succinate individually prevented the DNA damage. However, administration of a mixture of these vitamins at low doses prevented the DAB-induced DNA damage, which may be due to their synergistic effect. The results indicate that there is a significant advantage in mixed vitamins therapy at low dose over the treatment with individual vitamins.

017337   Tripathi P;Naik S;Agrawal S (Medical Genetics Dep, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Raebareli Road, Lucknow-226 014, Email: suraksha@sgpgi.ac.in) : Role of HLA-G, HLA-E and KIR2DL4 in pregnancy. Int J Hum Genet 2007, 7(3), 219-33.

Mammalian pregnancy has always been considered as immunological enigma. During pregnancy various immunological components at fetomaternal interface contribute to the immunosuppression which may allow semiallogenic fetus to survive. Along with Th2 shift, some other cytokines also play an important role in directing the normal pregnancy. Further modulation of immunological effector cells like T cells, macrophages and NK cells are also involved. Further, the lack of HLA class I expression at fetomaternal interface assists in escaping the fetus from maternal immune response, moreover, simultaneous expression of non classical HLA-G and HLA-E at fetomateral interface helps in downregulation of NK cells. NK cells interact with HLA-G via their KIR2DL4 receptors. We have reviewed the role of these molecules and how the loss of function in any of these components can lead to immunodysregulation hence leading to rejection of the fetus.

3 illus, 3 tables, 109 ref

017336   Tripathi P (Immunology Group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, Email: parultripathi@rediffmail.com) : Nitric Oxide and Immune Response. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2007, 44(5), 310-19.

Nitric oxide (NO), initially described as a physiological mediator of endothelial cell relaxation plays an important role in hypotension. It is an intercellular messenger and has been recognized as one of the most versatile players in the immune system. Cells of the innate immune system - macrophages, neutrophils and natural killer (NK) cells use pattern recognition receptors to recognize molecular patterns associated with pathogens. Activated macrophages then inhibit pathogen replication by releasing a variety of effector molecules, including NO. In addition to macrophages, a large number of other immune system cells produce and respond to NO. Thus, NO is important as a toxic defense molecule against infectious organisms. It also regulates the functional activity, growth and death of many immune and inflammatory cell types including macrophages, T lymphocytes, antigen-presenting cells, mast cells, neutrophils and NK cells. However, the role of NO in non-specific and specific immunity in vivo and in immunologically mediated diseases and inflammation is poorly understood. This review discusses the role of NO in immune response and inflammation and its mechanisms of action in these processes.

017335   Tamang B;Tamang J P (Food Microbiology Lab, Botany Dep, Sikkim Govt Coll, Gangkok-737 102, Sikkim) : Role of lactic acid bacteria and their functional properties in Goyang, a fermented leafy vegetable product of the sherpas. J Hill Res 2007, 20(2), 53-61.

Goyang is an ethnic fermented leafy vegetable prepared and consumed by the Sherpas of Sikkim, the Darjeeling hills and Nepal. Isolation, characterization and identification of predominant lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from samples of goyang, and their functional properties were studied. Total population of LAB was recorded at the level of 10⁷ cfu/g, and was identified as Lactobacillus plantarum, Lact. brevis, Lact. lactic, Enterococcus faecium, Pediococcus pentosaceus. Prevalence of LAB showed that lactobacilli were reprenting 59.5 , pediococci and lactococci 10.8%, and enterococci 18.9%, respectively. This study showed that strains of LAB played important role by their functional properties related to acidifying capacity, degradation of anti-nutritive factors, tolerance to bile-salt, and non-producers of biogenic amines.

2 illus, 4 tables, 33 ref

017334   Surender Kumar;Bhutani S;Bhatia P;Jain R K; Chowdhury V K (Central Inst for Cotton Res, , Regional Station, Sirsa-125 055) : Histochemical gus assay in transformed calli of cotton (G. hirsutum L.). J Indian Soc Cott Improv 2007, 32(2), 93-6.

Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain LBA4404 harbouring the plasmid pTOK 233 was used. Hypocotyls, cotyledons, shoot tips and calli of H 777, H 1098 and HS 6 were co-cultivated with LBA strain containing plasmid WK 233. The tissue/calli showed Gus expression at varying frequencies of 0 to 30 per cent depending upon the tissue type and genotype. Among the various tissues, calli showed maximum level and frequency of transient Gus expression.

1 table, 10 ref

017333   Sun Z;Lu Y;Ruan Q;Ji Y;He R;Qi Y;Ma Y;Huang Y (Virus Laboratory Affiliated Sheng Jing Hospital, China Medical Univ, Shenyang-110 004, Email: ruang@cmu2h.com) : Human cytomegalovirus UL145 gene is highly conserved among clinical strains. J Biosci, Bangalore 2007, 32(6), 1111-18.

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a ubiquitous human pathogen, is the leading cause of birth defects in newborns. A region (referred to as UL/b') present in the Toledo strain of HCMV and low-passage clinical isolates) contains 22 additional genes, which are absent in the highly passaged laboratory strain AD 169. One of these genes, UL145 open reading frame (ORF), is located between the highly variable genes UL144 and UL146. To assess the structure of the UL145 gene, the UL145 ORF was amplified by PCR and sequenced from 16 low-passage clinical isolates and 15 non-passage strains from suspected congenitally infected infants. Nine UL145 sequences previously published in the GenBank were used for sequence comparison. The identities of the gene and the similarities of its putative protein among all strains were 95.9-100% and 96.6-100%, respectively. The post-translational modification motifs of the UL145 putative protein in clinical strains were conserved, comprising the protein kinase C phosphorylation motif (PKC) and casein kinase II phosphorylation site (CK-II). It was concluded that the structure of the UL145 gene and its putative protein are relatively conserved among clinical strains, irrespective of whether the strains come from patients with different manifestations, from different areas of the world, or were passaged or not in human embryonic lung fibroblast (HELP) cells.

2 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

017332   Sudheesh S;Vijayalakshmi N R (Biochemistry Dep, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram-695 581, Email: sudheeshatl@yahoo.co.uk) : Role of pectin from Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) in modulation of protein kinase C activity and regulation of glycogen metabolism in rats. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2007, 44(3), 183-85.

The regulatory role of protein kinase C (PKC) in glycogen metabolism in pectin fed rats was investigated. Administration of pectin (5 g/kg body wt/day) from cucumber (Cucumis sativius L.) led to inhibitory effects on PKC activity in the liver of rats. In the brain and pancreas, PKC activity was significantly higher in pectin-treated rats as compared to the control group. Level of blood glucose was significantly lowered and the level of glycogen in the liver was significantly increased in pectin-administered rats. Glycogen synthase activity was enhanced, while glycogen phosphorylase enzyme showed inhibition in pectin-treated rats. Results indicated that pectin administration might have caused an increase in the secretion of the insulin, which, in turn, had a stimulatory effect on the PKC activity in the pancreas. The decreased PKC activity in the liver and increased PKC activity in the brain and pancreas on pectin administration indicated enhanced glycogenesis and reduced glycogenolysis.

017331   Srinivasan M S (Geology Dep, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005, Email: mssrinivasan@rediffmail.com) : Journey through morphological micropaleontology to molecular micropaleontology. Indian J Mar Sci 2007, 36(4), 251-71.

Micropaleontology has undergone a remarkable change over the past 150 years. With the recognition of biostratigraphic utility of microfossils in petroleum exploration, micropaleontology received a new impetus from the early descriptive stage to noticeable and exciting trends in the early part of the 20th century. The changes have been primarily in the areas of systematics of smaller benthic foraminifera, biostratigraphy and precision in paleoecology mainly to cater the needs of oil companies. This marks the first major milestone - the development of Industrial micropaleontology. A dazzling shift in micropaleontology occurred in the seventies and eighties with the advent of intensive scientific ocean drilling programmes and availability of new instrumentation and analytical techniques to study microfossils. In addition, efforts to evolve multiple microfossil biostratigraphies and their integration with other fields such as magnetostratigraphy, stable isotopic stratigraphy, carbonate stratigraphy, computer application and more recently with molecular biology opened up multifaceted approach to micropaleontological research. This was indeed another important milestone in the history of development of micropaleontology. This led to a qualitative change in research emphasis in the areas of correlation, paleobiogeography, plankton evolution, paleoclimatology and paved way for new research areas like paleoceanography and molecular micropaleontology. Of late, microfossils have emerged as a very powerful and reliable tool to trace past variations in monsoon and to characterize tsunamigenic sediments. Thus, the subject of micropaleontology is becoming more and more important branch of Earth System Science for finding solutions to contemporary issues and that its future is indeed very bright.

017330   Sreejith P;Bevo R S;Divya L;Vijavasree A S; manju M;Oommen O V (Zoology, Dep, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram-695-581, Email: oommenvo@yahoo.com) : Triiodothyronine and melatonin influence antioxidant defense mechanism in a teleost Anabas testudineus (Bloch): In vitro study. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2007, 44(3), 164-68.

The effect of the hormones triiodothyronine (T₃) and melatonin on antioxidant defense system was studied in 6-propyl thiouracil (6-PTU)-treated or photoperiod-exposed teleost Anabas testudineus. 6-PTU (2 μg/g) treatment or photoperiod exposure (24 h) increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and conjugated dienes (CD) concentrations, indicating increased lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the experimental conditions. T₃ or melatonin (10^-6 M) treatment for 15 min in vitro in PTU-treated fish reversed the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and glutathione content. T₃-treated group showed no change in glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, whereas melatonin treatment decreased its activity. T₃ inhibited glutathione reductase (GR) activity. Photoperiod exposure (physiological pinealotomy) induced a stressful situation in this teleost, as evidenced by LPO products and antioxidant enzyme activities. Melatonin and T₃ treatment for 15 min in vitro also reversed the effect of photoperiod on peroxidation products and the SOD and catalase activities. GR activity decreased in photoperiod-exposed group and melatonin and T₃ treatment reversed the activities. The antioxidant enzymes responded to the stress situation after 6-PTU treatment and photoperiod exposure by altering their activities. The study suggested an independent effect of T3 and melatonin on antioxidant defence mechanism in different physiological situations in fish.

017329   Solavan A;Paulmurugan R;Wilsanand V (Zoology Dep, PMT College, Melaneelithanallur, Thirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, Email: wilsanand@yahoo.com) : Antigenotoxic activity of the subterranean termite on Swiss albino mice. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(3), 406-11.

Reports the antigenotoxic potential of the termite (Odontotermes formosanus Shiraki) supplemented food on acephate and endosulfan induced toxicity in the Swiss albino mice (Mus musculus). Dietary supplementation with termite to male and female mice Mus musculus treated with acephate and endosulfan significantly decreased the percentage of chromosomal aberration and micronuclei in the bone marrow cells than in pesticide treated F0 and F1 generations (P <60> 0.01). The chromosomal aberrations induced by acephate and endosulfan included minute, gap, inversion, ring, pulverization and tetraploids. The experimental groups treated with acephate/endosulfan and supplemented with termite food did not show critical genotoxic aberration markers like pulverization and ploidy suggesting a strong antigenotoxic effect of the termite components.

017328   Sivanesan D;Hazeena Begum V (Unit of Biochemistry, Siddha Medicine Dep, Faculty of Science, Tamil University, Thanjavur-613 005, Email: drhazeenabiomed@yahoo.com) : Modulatory effect of Gynandropsis gynandra L. on glucose metabolizing enzymes in aflatoxin B1-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in rats. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2007, 44(6), 477-80.

The modulation of glucose-metabolizing enzymes activities play a vital role in the depletion of energy metabolism and leads to inhibition of cancer growth. In the present study, the effect of Gynandropsis gynandra L. extract on aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was studied on glucose-metabolizing enzymes in rats. A significant increase (p<60>0.001) in the activities of the key glycolytic enzymes viz., hexokinase and phosphoglucoisomerase, with a significant decrease (p<60>0.001) in the gluconeogenic enzymes glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase were observed in HCC-bearing rats, when compared with the control. Administration of G. gynandra extract caused a significant decrease in the activities of glycolytic enzymes and an increase in the gluconeogenic enzymes activities to near normal values. Thus, findings suggest the G. gynandra extract has a definite modulating role on the key enzymes of glucose metabolism in HCC. The modulatory effect may be due to the phytoactive constituents present in the extract of G. gynandra.

017327   Singh V P;Sinha N;V Ramesh;Tewari S;Khan E; Agrawal S (Medical Genetics Dep, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate of Medical Sciences, Raebareli Road, Lucknow-226 014, Email: suraksha@sgpgi.ac.in) : Mutation in the gene encoding sterol regulatory element binding protein (SREBP-2) in hyper-cholesterolaemic subjects. Int J Hum Genet 2007, 7(4), 315-17.

The cholesterol homeostasis is regulated by the cleavage of membrane bound transcription factor sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs). We have analyzed 50 hypercholesterolaemic patients for genetic mutations in SREBP2 gene by direct sequencing of exon 5-10 of SREBP-2 gene that encodes the crucial functional domains. One missense mutation (V623M) in the regulatory domain was identified in the exon 10 of SREBP-2 gene. However, no mutations were found in the regulatory domain in 200 controls samples. This is first report from India suggesting that the missense mutation (V623M) in human SREBP-2 gene may be true pathogenic mutations of hypercholesterolamic state.

1 table, 5 ref

017326   Singh S K;Caushal D C;Murthy P K;Kaushal N A (Divisions of Parasitology and Microbiology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226 001, Email: nuzhatkaushal@hotmail.com) : Partial purification and characterization of acetylcholinesterase isozymes from adult bovine filarial parasite Setaria cervi. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2007, 44(5), 379-85.

Filariasis is a major health problem, affecting millions of people in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. The isolation and characterization of parasite-specific enzyme targets is essential for developing effective control measures against filariasis. Acetylcholinesterase (AchE, E.C. 3.1.1.7), an important enzyme of neuromuscular transmission is found in a number of helminths including filarial parasites and may be playing a role in host-parasite interactions. Earlier, we demonstrated the presence of two isozymes of AchE, different from the host enzyme in the human (Brugia malayi) and bovine (Setaria cervi) filarial parasites. In the present study, two isozymes of AchE (pAchE1 and pAchE2) were isolated from S. cervi adults and characterized biochemically and immunochemically. The AchE was partially purified on Con-A Sepharose column and then subjected to preparative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) for separation of the isozymes. The AchE activity was localized by the staining of gel and the isozymes were isolated from the PAGE strips by electroelution. Both isozymes preferentially utilized acetylcholine iodide as substrate and were strongly inhibited by the true AchE inhibitor (BW284c51), suggesting that they were true AchE. The polyclonal antibodies produced against the isozymes showed significant cross-reactivity with B. malayi AchE, but not against the host enzyme. These findings suggested that both the isozymes were biochemically (in terms of their substrate specificity and inhibitor sensitivity) and immunochemically similar, but different from the host enzyme.

017325   Singh N S;Sanjeev Kumar (Molecular Genetic Laboratory, Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar-243 122, Email: skgcari@yahoo.co.uk) : Influence of selection for high humoral immunity on selected and unselected traits variety of Turkey. J appl Anim Res 2007, 32(2), 139-43.

Direct and correlated changes were evaluated in the immunological traits (total, mercaptoethanol resistant (MER) and sensitive (MES) antibodies, serum lysozyme level and PHA-P response and body weights (0 to 24 weeks) in S₁ generation of Black turkey variety, selected for higher immune response to sheep RBCs (SRBC). The selected line had comparatively higher (P<62>0.05) LS means for all immunological traits except for serum lysozyme level. Hatch effect was significant on MER antibody titre and serum lysozyme level only. Females had significantly higher titres of HA and MES (P<60>0.1) and lower response to PHA-P (P<60>0.05). Control line had comparatively higher body weights at 20 and 24 weeks of age. Realized h² estimate as a response to selection was 0.499 indicating the effectiveness of selection.

2 tables, 20 ref

017324   Singh A D (Geology Dep, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005, Email: arundeosingh@yahoo.com) : Episodic preservation of pteropods in the eastern Arabian Sea: Monsoonal change, oxygen minimum zone intensity and aragonite compensation depth. Indian J Mar Sci 2007, 36(4), 378-83.

The preservational record of pteropod shells (aragonite) for the last 30 kyr has been studied in a core (SK17) recovered from the eastern Arabian Sea margin at off Goa coast (depth 840m, lat. 15°15'N, long. 72°44'E). The chronostratigraphy of the core established on the basis of high resolution stable isotope record of a planktic foraminifera (Globigerinoides ruber) and several AMS radiocarbon ages demonstrates millennial scale variation in d 18O defining Younger Dryas and Heinrich like Events. Records of absolute abundance of pteropods (1g/dry wt >125 mm), abundance ratio of pteropod and planktic foraminifera, aragonite (wt %), organic carbon (OC) (wt %) and CaCO3 (wt %) show major changes during these isotopic events. Aragonite maxima and higher number of well-preserved pteropod shells, are noticed during cold stadial periods. The study indicates a negative correlation between aragonite and OC % (productivity index). On the other hand, total CaCO₃ content (calcite and aragonite) is positively correlated with the aragonite. The variation patterns of pteropod shells and aragonite content in the sediment core are suggested to be controlled by the preservational conditions associated with the fluctuation in Aragonite Compensation Depth (ACD) and Oxygen Minimum Zone (OMZ) intensity. It is suggested that the high biological productivity during intensified summer monsoons in late Holocene and inter-stadial periods might have resulted in severe oxygen depletion (strong OMZ) leading to shallowing of the ACD. A weak summer monsoon and low productivity condition prevailing during cold stadial periods would have resulted in a weak OMZ and deepening of the ACD.

017323   Simanshu D K;Chittori S;Savithri H S;Murthy M R N (Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Banglore-560 012, Email: mrn@mbu.iisc.ernet.in) : Structure and function of enymes involved in the anaerobic degradation of L-threonine to propionate. J Biosci, Bangalore 2007, 32(6), 1195-1206.

In Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium, L-threonine is cleaved non-oxidatively to propionate via 2-ketobutyrate by biodegradative threonine deaminase, 2-ketobutyrate formate-lyase (or pyruvate formate-lyase), phosphotransacetylase and propionate kinase. In the anaerobic condition, L-threonine is converted to the energy-rich keto acid and this is subsequently catabolised to produce ATP via substrate-level phosphorylation, providing a source of energy to the cells. Most of the enzymes involved in the degradation of L-threonine to propionate are encoded by the anaerobically regulated tdc operon. In the recent past, extensive structural and biochemical studies have been carried out on these enzymes by various groups. Besides detailed structural and functional insights, these studies have also shown the similarities and differences between the other related enzymes present in the metabolic network. In this paper, we review the structural and biochemical studies carried out on these enzymes.

6 illus, 66 ref

017322   Sheth F J;Radhakrishna U;Morris M A;Blouin J L;Sheth J J;Multani A;Antonarakis S E (Frige house (Foundation for Research in Genetics & Endocrinology), Genetic Centre, 15 Kapidway, Jodhpur Gam Road Satellite Ahmedabad-380 015) : Cytogenetic molecular and fish analysis of an isodicentric chromosome 21 idic (21)(q22.3) in a mildly affected patient with down syndrome. Int J Hum Genet 2007, 7(3), 215-18.

Most cases of Down syndrome (DS) result from a supernumerary marker chromosome 21; however there are rare cases in which DS is due to partial trisomy of chromosome 21, involving various segments of the chromosome. The characterization of DS that are due to partial trisomy 21 allows the phenotype to be correlated with the genotype. We present a case of a five-year-old male referred for cytogenetic analysis because of mild mental retardation and facial features typical of Down syndrome for whom karyotypic analysis showed a "mirror" reverse tandem duplication of chromosome 21. Fluorescence In-Situ Hybridization (FISH) using a half YAC containing the telomere of chromosome 21q and the adjacent marker D21S1575 revealed the deletion of both copies of this region on the translocated chromosome. Microsatellite analysis further delineated the breakpoint to be between CDI 8 and D21SI446. excluding the possibility of uniparental disomy and demonstrated that the rearranged chromosome was of paternal origin.

1 tables, 18 ref

017321   Shasany A K;Shukla A K;Darokar M P;saraiya M; Chaturvedi N;Tewari L;Khanuja S P S (Genetic Resources and Biotechnology Div, Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow-226 015, Email: akshasany@yahoo.com) : An alpha-1 antitrypsin genetic variant from India. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2007, 44(3), 176-78.

The highly polymorphic human alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) gene codes for the most abundant circulating plasma serine protease inhibitor. Previously, genetic variants of the AAT gene were reported from different regions of the world. In the present study, the AAT gene was characterized in an Indian sample. The AAT gene was isolated and cloned from a liver biopsy sample through RT-PCR and the full-length gene was sequenced. Nucleotide sequence comparison with the human genome and the AAT sequences available in the GenBank (NCBI) demonstrated four unique variations-(i) an A to G variation at position 286 (Thr96Ala), (ii) an A to G variation at position 839 (Asp280Gly), (iii) a T to C variation at position 1182 that did not result in any change in the protein sequence (TTT to TTC both code for Phe) and (iv) an A to C variation at position 1200 (Glu400Asp) that resulted in replacement by an amino acid of similar nature. Other variations found were T to C at position 710 (Val237Ala) and T to A at position 863 (Val288Glu), which were also reported earlier. In conclusion, this study reports the entire 1257 bp nucleotide sequence of protein coding region of the human AAT gene from an Indian sample. This preliminary finding is significant, as it reports for the first time the AAT gene sequence in the Indian sample.

017320   Sharma S;Joshi V K (Post harvest Technology Dep, Dr. Y S Parmar Horticulture & Forestry Univ, Nauni, Solan-173 230, Email: vkjoshipht@rediffmail.com) : Influence of temperature and salt concentration on lactic acid fermentation of radish (Raphanus sativus). J Fd Sci Technol 2007, 44(6), 611-14.

Fermentation of radish was carried out at 22, 26, and 32°C using Luctobacillus plantarum, Pediococcus cerevisiae and Streptococcus lactis var diacetylactis as such or in sequence along with natural microflora. Titratable acidity indicated that sequential culture with 2.5% salt at 26°C was superior. At 26°C. the differences were contrasting on the last day of fermentation although up to 4 days the differences were not clearly evident. In terms of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) population, in all the fermentations except P. cerevisiae and Lb. plantarum temperature of 26°C was the best. It corroborated with physico-chemical and sensory characteristics of fermented radish. The radish fermented with sequential culture of LAB, 2.5% salt concentration and at 26°C had higher titratable acidity, low pH and low reducing sugar content. Higher sensory scores gave an edge to sequential culture over other types of fermentations.

3 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

017319   Sharma J P;Teekam Singh;Rajesh Kumar;Taneja H K;Tomar S S (Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry Div, IARI, New Delhi-110 012) : Regulation of nitrification of soil-applied urea by some heterocyclics. Bhartiya Vaigyanik Evam Audyogik Anusandhan Patrika 2007, 15(1), 11-17.

The nitrogen use efficiency of ammonical fertilizers in soil, particularly in tropics, is only 30-40% of the applied dose. The factors contributing to the low N-use efficiency include ammonia volatilization, nitrification, denitrification and nitrate leaching etc. These processes also contribute to health and environmental hazards. Nitrification seems to be the centre point of the problem leading to inefficient N-use, denitrification and nitrate leaching being just the consequences. Efforts are, therefore, underway all over the world to retard and regulate the soil microbes driven nitrification phenomenon. Most of the well established otential nitrification inhibitors are nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds viz N-serve or nitrapyrin, 2-chloro-6-(trichloromethyl) pyridine, 2-ethynylpyridine, 5-ethoxy-3-trichloro-methyl-1,2,4-thiadiazole (etridiazole), 4-amino-1,2,4-triazole (ATC), 3-methyl pyrazole-1-carboxamide (MPC), 2,4-diamino-5trichloromethyl triazine and 2-amino-4-chloro-6-methyl pyrimidine etc. Compounds bearing thiocarbonyl moiety, owing to their tendency to form chelates with ammonia mono oxygenase (AMO) enzyme generally associated with Nitrorosomonas europea, the primary inhibitor of nitrification phenomenon, have also been reported to have potential nitrification inhibitory property. But none of the above chemicals have found favour with the farmers/industrialists due to high application cost. Oxidation of ammonia by Nitrosomonas europea bacteria that initiates the nitrification as a whole is a two-stage process that involves the initial oxidation of ammonia to hydroxylamine by the membrane bound enzyme known ammonia mono oxygenase, which has remarkably broad substrate range that can account forthe inhibitory effects of many compounds on this enzyme. Therefore, in our endeavour to develop viable N-regulators for soil-applied urea some simple heterocyclic molecules were synthesized and evaluated in the laboratory. A series of substituted iso oxazoles, which was synthesized by condensation of appropriate unsaturated carbonyl compounds with hydroxyl ammonium hydrochloride, has exhibited wide range of nitrification inhibitory activity. The laboratory incubation experiments were carried out in a typic Haplustept. The compounds were screened at 10% of applied urea-N dose and incubated for a period of 28 days at 28±2°C, maintaining moisture at 50% of the water holding capacity of the soil. Evaluated weekly over a period of four weeks, most of the test compounds had been found to be mild inhibitors of nitrification. 5-phenyl iso oxazole and 3-methyl-5-(4'-methoxy phenyl) iso oxazole were found to be best among the series and were comparable to dicyandiamide the reference nitrification regulator. During the first week of application, these chemicals showed 78.2 and 82.6% nitrification inhibition, respectively as compared to 85.1% by dicyandiamide. The effect however, was considerably reduced by third and fourth week. The study indicated that the above compounds could be used as nitrification regulators for soil applied urea-N.

017318   Sharma A;Chandran D;Singh D D;Vijayan M (Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Banglore-560 012, Email: mv@mbu.iisc.ernet.in) : Multiplicity of carbohydrate-binding sites in β-prism fold lectin : occurrence and possible evolutionary implication. J Biosci, Bangalore 2007, 32(6), 1089-1110.

The β-prism II fold lectins of known structure ,all from monocots, invariably have three carbohydrate-binding sites in each subunit/domain. Until recently, β-prism I fold lectins of known structure were all from dicots and they exhibited one carbohydrate-binding site per subunit/domain. However, the recently determined structure of the β-prism fold I lectin from banana, a monocot, has two very similar carbohydrate-binding sites. This prompted a detailed analysis of all the sequences appropriate for two-lectin folds and which carry one or more relevant carbohydrate-binding motifs. The very recent observation of a β-prism I fold lectin, griffithsin, with three binding sites in each domain further confirmed the need for such an analysis. The analysis demonstrates substantial diversity in the number of binding sites unrelated to the taxonomical position of the plant source. However, the number of binding sites and the symmetry within the sequence exhibit reasonable correlation. The distribution of the two families of β-prism fold lectins among plants and the number of binding sites in them, appear to suggest that both of them arose through successive gene duplication, fusion and divergent evolution of the same primitive carbohydrate-binding motif involving a Greek key. Analysis with sequences in individual Greek keys as independent units lends further support to this conclusion. It would seem that the preponderance of three carbohydrate-binding sites per domain in monocot lectins, particularly those with the β-prism II fold, is related to the role of plant lectins in defence.

7 illus, 1 table, 57 ref

017317   Sharad S;Gupta A K;Singh R A;Kapoor M;Kapur S (NO, BITS, Pilani-333 031, Email: Center for Biotechnology, Biological Sciences Group) : Correlation of circulatory immunoglobulin levels with Mu opiate receptor allele. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2007, 44(5), (NULL).

Opiates are known to induce immunosuppression in their users (addicts). Evidences supporting their role in suppressing a variety of immunological end points in addicts have been reported by several investigators. Investigates the changes in serum immunoglobulin (Ig) levels and their correlation with Mu opiate receptor (MOR) genotypes. Eighty-seven users and forty-five non-users were recruited for the study. Genomic DNA, isolated from the peripheral blood, was used for genotyping for C17T and A118G polymorphism using PCR-RFLP method. The frequency of A and G alleles in non-users was 89% and 11% respectively, whereas in addicts, it was 67% and 33% respectively. Case control analysis between groups revealed that 118G allele was associated with opioid dependence [Chi square (X2) = 13.56, odds ratio (OR) = 3.90, confidence interval_95% (CI_95%) = 1.80-8.67, p = 0.000231]. C17T polymorphism showed no association with opioid dependence [(X2) = 0.9, O R = 2.49, CI_95% = 0.528-16.12, p = 0.343]. Mean Ig levels, both IgG (student's t-test = 2.2738, p = 0.007) and IgA (student's t-test = 2.848, p = 0.0051) differed between opiate users and non-users. IgG and IgA levels were also significantly different in individuals with different MOR genotypes. Immunosuppression was observed in AA genotype-bearing individuals, while no suppression was seen in AG and GG genotypes bearing individuals. In case of C17T polymorphism, both CC and CT genotypes bearing individuals showed immunosuppression, as judged by circulating Ig levels.

017316   Schaloske R H;Blaesius D;Schlatterer C;Lusche D F (Chemistry and Biochemistry Dep, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0601, USA) : Arachidonic acid is a chemoattractant for Dictyostelium discoideum cells. J Biosci, Bangalore 2007, 32(7), 1281-9.

Cyclic AMP (cAMP) is a natural chemoattractant of the social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum. It is detected by cell surface cAMP receptors. Besides a signalling cascade involving phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP₃ ), Ca²⁺ signalling has been shown to have a major role in chemotaxis. Previously, it has shown that arachidonic acid (AA) induces an increase in the cytosolic Ca²⁺ concentration by causing the release of Ca²⁺ from intracellular stores and activating infl ux of extracellular Ca²⁺. Reports that AA is a chemoattractant for D. discoideum cells differentiated for 8-9 h. Motility towards a glass capillary filled with an AA solution was dose-dependent and qualitatively comparable to cAMP-induced chemotaxis. Ca²⁺ played an important role in AA chemotaxis of wild-type Ax2 as ethyleneglycolbis(b-aminoethyl)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA) added to the extracellular buffer strongly inhibited motility. In the HM1049 mutant whose iplA gene encoding a putative Ins(1,4,5)P₃ -receptor had been knocked out, chemotaxis was only slightly affected by EGTA. Chemotaxis in the presence of extracellular Ca²⁺ was similar in both strains. Unlike cAMP, addition of AA to a cell suspension did not change cAMP or cGMP levels. A model for AA chemotaxis based on the findings in this and previous work is presented.

4 illus, 1 table, 57 ref

017315   Saraswati P K (Earth Sciences Dep, Indian Institute of Technology- Bombay, Powai, Mumbai-400 076, Email: pratul@iitb.ac.in) : Symbiont-bearing benthic foraminifera of Lakshadweep. Indian J Mar Sci 2007, 36(4), 351-54.

Eleven genera of symbiont-bearing benthic foraminifera, also known as "larger benthic foraminifera", are recorded from the lagoon waters of Lakshadweep. The assemblage is comparable to that of any other high diversity reef assemblages of the Indian and Pacific oceans and the diversity may even be higher if a detailed study of fore-reef areas is carried out. The potential of these foraminifera as proxy of sea-surface temperature and a tool to monitor the health of coral reefs need to be explored. Recent studies on stable isotopes and trace elements in some selected species of these foraminifera indicate their usefulness as proxy of sea surface temperature. The longer life spans and larger size of the symbiont-bearing species are advantageous to assess their potential as geochemical proxies of palaeoenvironment. The lagoons of Lakshadweep provide natural laboratory for the same and a major initiative is required in this direction.

017314   Reddy B M;Reddy A N S;Nagaraja T;Bhaskar L V K S;Singh H P;Naidu V M;Thangaraj K;Reddy A G;Nirmala A;Singh L (Biological Anthropology Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Street no 8, Habsiguda, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: bmr@isical.ac.in) : Anthropological perspective of the single nucleotide polymorphisms in the NPY and DRD2 genes among the socio-economically stratified populations of Andhra Pradesh, India. Int J Hum Genet 2007, 7(4), 277-84.

Report single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) at the two sites each of NPY and DRD2-Taql loci among the 28~populations from southern parts of Andhra Pradesh, India. The average allele frequency at these sites in these populations categorized into upper, middle and lower ranking castes, Muslims and tribes were also carried out in order to test if there is any trend in the allele frequency of some of these SNPs that are implicated in alcoholism. This was felt important as some of these hierarchical low ranking groups and tribes traditionally arc known for addictive behavior, especially to alcohol, as against the prohibitive norms among most of the higher ranking castes. The trend in average allele frequency although suggests some association with these traditional behavioral patterns, the case control studies are required before inferring the exact nature of this association. The bivariate plot between the NPY-C and Taq1A1 mean allele frequencies in the 28 populations and the lack of significant association between the genotypes of these two SNPs at the individual level rules out any possibility of co-adaptation between these two alleles, despite both being somewhat implicated in alcoholism.

3 illus, 2 tables, 44 ref

017313   Rawat S;Nagendra H R (NO, Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana, 19 Eknath Bhavan, Gavipuram Circle, Kempegowda Circle, Bangalore-560 019) : Effect of Apthoryama yajna on people and environment. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(3), 412-16.

In traditional knowledge base of the Vedas mention that Yajias have effect on the environment and people. Yajnas of various kinds are elaborated in the four Vedas. Apthoryama yaj‹a is one such yaj‹a in the Soma yaj‹a. A large-scale yaj‹a Apthoryama yaj‹a was organized in Thrissur district of Kerala to evaluate the effects on environment, society and humans beings. In the study, following aspects were taken up: attitudinal survey, random event generator (REG) studies, bacterial count in the atmosphere and analysis from the yajia. Attitudinal survey showed that people came to yajia for spiritual reason and their life is affected from the spiritual activity. On measuring consciousness fields in the surroundings of yajia using (REG) has shown a significant change as measured at a distance of 12 m from the place of yaj‹a. Air borne bacteria counts have shown an increase at 20 m distance as compared to 40 m. The speciation of the bacteria was not done. A study of ash filtrate of yajia was done using standard stain; the result of the filtrate was negative for bacterial growth and also for antibacterial activity after 6 months.

017312   Rana S S;Nigam R;Panchang R (Micropaleontology Lab, National Institute of Oceanography, CSIR, Dona Paula, Goa-403 004, Email: sanjay@nio.org) : Relict benthic foraminifera in surface sediments off central east coast of India as indicator of sea level changes. Indian J Mar Sci 2007, 36(4), 355-60.

Attempt has been made to reconstruct sea-level variations along the central east coast of India during the late Pleistocene and early Holocene. A total of 39 surface sediment samples collected from water depth range of 27 - 2,777 m were studied for foraminiferal content. The samples within the depth range of 36-110 m showed presence of relict foraminiferal tests along with recent foraminifers. The relict foraminiferal assemblage of Amphistegina, Operculina, Calcarina and Alveolinella in the selected surface samples is characteristic of coral reef environment and has been inferred as evidence for past low sea levels. Based on extrapolation of previously published radiocarbon dates from the region, we propose a pliable sea level curve for the period between <126>9,000 to <126>14,000 years BP.

017311   Ramegowda S;Savitha M R;Krishnamurthy B; Doddaiah N;Prasanth S N;Ramchandra N A (Zoology Studies Dep, Human Genetic Laboratory, Mysore Univ, Manasagangothri Mysore-570 006, Email: nallurbr@gmail.com) : Association between pericentric inversion in chromosome 9 and congenital heart defects. Int J Hum Genet 2007, 7(3), 241-8.

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of mortality in the first year of life. Prevalence of CHD worldwide is found to range from 1.0 to 50.89 per 1000 livebirths including India. The association of these defects with chromosomal anomalies varies between 4 to 12%. In the present investigation, we report two different cases of pericentric inversion of chromosome 9 [inv(9)(p11-q13)], associated with Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection (TAPVC) and Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). In one of the cases (TOF), the mother had similar inversion without CHD. Authors predict here that, the genes responsible for the normal heart development could be present on chromosome 9 around p11-q13 region, which might have been defective during the process of inversion and thereby resulted in CHD. To our knowledge, this is the maiden report of association of inversion with CHD from South India.

4 illus, 27 ref

017310   Ramanathan R;Mangalajothi T (Physics Dep, Govt. Arts College, Ariyalur-621 713) : Aerobic culture of bacteria from biogas plant and its sensitivity to certain food materials. J Ecotoxic envir Monit 2007, 17(2), 135-8.

Aerobic bacteria were cultured from a working biogas plant which used canteen wastes as input. Different individual canteen wastes were added to the cultured aerobic bacteria and this growth was measured. The growth of aerotic bacteria in cooked food wastes, curd, milk, food items and tamarind is higher which can be fed as input into the biogas plant whereas uncooked food wastes, waste cuttings of raw vegetables and oil should never be fed into the biogas plant as input, since growth is very slow.

1 table, 9 ref

017309   Rajnikant;Dinesh; (Condensed Matter Physics Group, Post-Graduate Department of Physics, University of Jammu, Jammu Tawi-180006, Email: rkantverma@rediffmail.com) : Biological activity predictions, crystallographic comparison and hydrogen bonding analysis of cholane derivatives. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2007, 44(6), 458-69.

A total of eighteen molecules of cholane derivatives (I-XVIII) (a series of steroids) have been included to predict their pharmacological effects, specific mechanisms of action, known toxicities, drug-likeness, etc, by using the statistics of multilevel neighbourhoods of atoms (MNA) descriptors for active and inactive fragments. The biological activity spectra for substances have been correlated on SAR base (structure-activity relationships data and knowledge base), which provides the different Pa (possibility of activity) and Pi (possibility of inactivity). Most of the probable activities have been characterized by Pa and Pi values, which depict that all the molecules have high value of teratogen activity. The Lipinski's thumb rule predicts that all the cholane derivatives have stronger preponderance for "cancer-like-drug" molecules and some of their related analogous have entered in the ANCI (American National Cancer Institute) database. Some selected bond distances and bond angles of interest have been taken into account and deviation of bond distances/bond angles, vis-a-vis the substitutional group and X-H...A intra/intermolecular hydrogen bonds has been discussed in detail. X-H...A intra and intermolecular hydrogen bonds in the molecules have been described with the standard distance and angle cut-off criteria. D-θ and d-θ scatter plots for intra- and intermolecular interactions are presented for better understanding of packing interactions existing among these derivatives. There exists only one C-H...O intramolecular bifurcated hydrogen bond, while high tendency of intermolecular bifurcated hydrogen bonds based on a defined O-H...O has been observed, in which O atom acts as a prototype donor as well as acceptor. The frequency of occurrence of C-H...O hydrogen bonds is predominant (i.e. 85.7%) in intramolecular interactions, whereas in intermolecular interactions, frequency of occurrence for O-H...O interactions is 62.9%. Solvent-solute/solute-solvent interactions have also been investigated to understand more complicated processes that occur for biomolecules in aqueous solutions. The number of hydrogen donors in each derivative is less than 5, except for molecule XVIII and which has 91.3% of drug-likeness, instead of observed range of 96.5-99.3%.

017308   Rajendra Kumar;Singh N P;Gyan Singh (NO, Indian Agricultural Staistics Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012) : Statistical investigation on use of application of micronutrients in rice-wheat cropping system. Bhartiya Vaigyanik Evam Audyogik Anusandhan Patrika 2007, 15(1), 18-22.

Agricultural production depends on environmental factors such as climate, soil fertility and other several crop improvement measures like fertilizers, manures, improved crop varieties, irrigation, cropping pattern, plant protection measures and cultural practices etc. Crop productivity can be maximized by improving plant nutrients and soil fertility. Often soil conditions do not support optimum growth due to lack of or low doses of specific nutrients. Sixteen plantfood nutrients are essential for proper crop development. For this purpose, an experiment on monitoring of macro- and micro- nutrients with recommended dose of NPK in rice-wheat cropping system under semi-arid eco-system was conducted during the period 1997-98 to 2000-01 at CSR centre Kanpur. The results of the combined analysis of these experiments revealed that the grain and straw yields and gross returns increased due to the application of all levels of sulphur, zinc chloride or zinc oxide and zinc sulphate. Total gross returns of grain yields for both the crops in kharif and rabi seasons were found significant when higher dose of zinc at 10 kg/ha as basal in the form of zinc sulphate with recommended dose of NPK applied. It was 26% higher than control. The micronutrients were applied every year in kharif season gave higher yields of both grain and straw and also gross return of yields for both seasons than micronutrients applied alternate year in kharif season.

017307   Radhika G;Venkatesan R;Kathiroli S (NO, National Institute of Ocean Technology, Ocean Science and Technology, Pallikaranai, Chennai-601 302, Email: venkat@niot.res.in) : N-methylpyrrolidone: Isolation and characterization of the compound from the marine sponge Clathria frondifera (class:Demospongiae). Indian J Mar Sci 2007, 36(3), 235-8.

Investigation of the chemical composition of the marine sponge Clathria frondifera resulted in the isolation of the compound N-methylpyrrolidone which is widely used in the petrochemical, microelectronics fabrication, paint and pharmaceutical industry. This is the first report on the isolation and structural characterization of N-methylpyrrolidone from a marine source. The compound was purified by column chromatography and analyzed by TLC. The functional groups were analyzed by FTIR spectrum. The structure of the compound was established by spectroscopic analysis (UV, 1H and 13C NMR) and elucidated with the aid of COSY, HMQC, and HMBC experiments.

017306   Radder R S (School of Biological Sciences A08, Sydeny Univ, NSW 2006, Australia, Email: raju@mail.usyd.edu.au) : Maternally derived egg yolk steroid hormones and sex determination : review of a paradox in reptiles. J Biosci, Bangalore 2007, 32(6), 1213-20.

During the past decade, maternally derived steroid hormones in the egg yolk of oviparous vertebrates have been the focus of attention for their possible role in sex determination and hence, information on the consequences of maternal egg yolk steroids on sex determination has accumulated rapidly in reptiles and birds. Until recently, the observations were dominated by the idea that yolk steroids of maternal origin play an important role in sex determination of oviparous vertebrates. However, more recent studies have cast significant doubt on the above conclusion. These studies suggest instead that steroids may be present in the yolk simply as the byproduct of passive uptake during yolk formation or observed correlations might reflect embryonically produced rather than maternally derived steroids. Thus, the objective of the present review is (i) to provide an overview of such paradoxical observations on the role of maternal yolk steroids in sex determination of reptiles, (ii) to identify and provide brief explanations for the observed paradoxical results, and (iii) to provide some future research directions.

^iia1 tables, 66 ref

017305   Prasad V;Garg R;Singh V;Thakur B (NO, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, 53, University Road, Lucknow-226 007, Email: vanprasad@yahoo.co.uk) : Organic matter distribution pattern in Arabian Sea: Palynofacies analysis from the surface sediments off Karwar coast (west coast of India). Indian J Mar Sci 2007, 36(4), 399-406.

Central Arabian Sea region, situated off the Karwar coast, is characterized by intense mid depth (<126>120-1200 m) oxygen minima zone and shows preservation and accumulation of relatively high organic matter content. Palynofacies analysis was carried out with a view to understand the organic matter production, preservation and degradation in the surface sediments of Arabian Sea from 15 m-2750 m depth off Karwar [14.47-14.40° N -70.77-74.25° E transect]. Palynofacies analysis, which involves qualitative and quantitative estimation of terrestrial and marine organic matter is a useful tool to decipher and assess paleoenvironmental changes in various water depth zones from shelf-slope region off the Karwar coast. There is a marked change in the palynofacies characteristics of the organic matter recovered from various depth zones. High SW monsoonal activity over Karwar coast results in increased runoff and nutrient loading in the coastal waters. This enhances primary productivity in the inner shelf region. Organic walled dinoflagellate cysts as important constituent of primary productivity, predominate under such conditions, being converted into Amorphous organic matter (AOM) as a result of degradation under low oxygen environment. Hence, in the present study high AOM is used as proxy for the low oxygen content at sediment-water interface. It also provides evidence of high primary productivity in the photic zone. Study further reveals that terrestrially derived charcoal and woody plant tissue resistant to degradation, are transported to continental slope regions at greater depths. Occurrence of a large proportion of well preserved labile organic matter (exoskeleton fragments of planktonic crustaceans) and AOM in the mid-outer slope surface sediments indicate enhanced primary productivity and high rate of burial efficiency making these areas, characteristic of low oxygen. The study shows that the Karwar coast margin is highly productive as a result of runoff related nutrient loading and is the primary cause for oxygen minima conditions.