006069   Gupta R;Naseem S;Kashyap R;Nityanand S (NO, , B-26, Satyawati Colony, New Delhi-110 052, Email: drritugupta@gmail.com) : Immunophenotypic patterns in precursor T-cell neoplasm. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 75-7.

T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders are a heterogeneous group of lymphoid neoplasm that can mimic both benign conditions and non-hematopoietic tumors. In routine clinical practice, morphology and immnnophenotyping forms the basis of their diagnosis. In this retrospective analysis, evaluates the utility of flow cytometric immunophenotyping patterns in diagnosis of precursor T-cell neoplasm. Aberrant expression of T-cell antigens was found in all the cases of precursor T-cell neoplasm. The residual normal T-lymphocytes, identifiable in majority of cases, were found to be useful in evaluation of quantitative differences in antigen expression by leukemic cells. A careful analysis of flow cytometric immunophenotyping data can provide additional information which is useful for diagnosis of precursor T-cell neoplasm. This information can be further utilized for analysis of minimal residual disease in these tumors.

1 illus, 2 tables, 4 ref

006068   Gupta R;Anand H;Lalit Kumar;Bakhshi S;Seth R (NO, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi) : Morphological spectrum of acute promyelocytic leukemia. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 155.

006067   Gulati A;Kaushik R (NO, , Prabhu Anugreh, Chhota Shimla-171 002, Email: drsanjaygulati223@yahoo.co.in) : Plasma cell leukaemia. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 91-2.

2 illus, 3 ref

006066   Goel G;Khadilkar U N;Rao P S;Khadilkar N P; Chakraborthy S (Pathology Dep, , KMC, Mangalore, Karnataka) : Superficial angiomyxoma of external ear not associated with carney's complex. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 248.

006065   Ecka R S;Chawla Y;Das A (Hepatology Dep, , PGIMER, Chandigarh) : Relationship of histology activity index in liver biopsy with serum enzyme levels and apoptotic index as measured by tunel method. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 110.

110 ref

006064   Durga G;Arora D;Mahajan R (Pathology & Vascular Surgery Dep, , Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi) : Giant vascular eccrine spiradenoma. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 252.

006063   Das D (Pathology Dep, Kuwait Univ, Faculty of Medicine) : Fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytologic features that represent secretory and storage activities of hormones in thyroid neoplasms: a 82 cases. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 114.

Studies the FNA cytomorphological features suggesting secretory activity and storage of hormones in thyriod neoplasms. May-Griinwald-Giemsa (MGG) and Papanicolaou-stained smears in œ2 cases (from 81 patients) of thyroid neoplasms, diagnosed over a period of three and half years, were examined for following cytomorphological features: marginal vacuoles (MV), cytoplasmic granules (CG), cytoplasmic vacuoles (CV), empty intracytoplasmic lumina (EICL), colloid inclusion (CI), magenta or targetoid bodies (MB), thick colloid (TC), cytoplasmic amyloid (CA), and extracellular amyloid (ECA). Immunocytochemical (ICC) staining was limited to medullary thyroid carcinomas. The study included 54 cases of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), 14 follicular neoplasms (FN), 8 Hiirthle cell neoplasms (HCN), and 6 medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). All the MTC cases were positive for calcitonin by ICC staining, and differed from PTC and FN by having significantly higher number of cases with CV, MB, and CG. In addition, both CA and ECA were present in MTC cases but in none of the other neoplasms. HCN cases differed from PTC and FN by having significantly higher number of cases with EICL, CI and CG. MV was observed in significantly higher number of FN cases, compared to PTC and HCN. Significantly higher number of PTC cases showed TC in the background than FN. Various thyroid neoplasms differed significantly from each other in respect of certain cytomorphological features suggesting secretory activity and storage of hormones.

006062   Chaudhary M;Baveja C P (NO, , 33/20, Rajpur Road, Civil Lines, Delhi-54, Email: jaglanbs@hotmail.com) : Pediatric tuberculosis -staining techniques revisited. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 107.

1 table, 5 ref

006061   Challa S;Megha U;Vanjarajan A;Thangarajan K; Shashi S;Meena A K;Murthy J M K (Pathology & Neurology Dep, Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad) : Diagnosis of mitochondrial diseases by muscle histology and genetic studies. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 120.

Objective is to study the contribution of muscle histology and genetic studies in the diagnosis of clinically suspected mitochondrial disease. Clinically suspected mitochondrial diseases referred for muscle biopsy during May 2005 - July 2006 were included in the study. Clinical phenotype, muscle histology for red ragged fibers (RRF) and oxidative enzyme activity were noted in all patients. Blood and muscle tissue were submitted for mitochondrial DNA analysis. There were 54 patients included in the study and genetic analysis was complete in 48. There were 28 males and 20 females with mean age 33 years. The predominant clinical phenotype was chronic progressive opthalmoplegia (CPEO) (16), followed by LHON (4), cerebellar ataxia (3) and others. Muscle biopsy showed RRF and increase in oxidative enzyme activity in 15. In 4 cases, there was a primary muscle disease like centro nuclear myopathy, dermatomyositis and dystrophy. Genetic studies revealed potentially pathogenic mutations in 25, possibly pathogenic in 16, no mutations in 5 and less likely pathogenic in 2. Clinical phenotype in mitochondrial disease is heterogeneous. Muscle histology provides important clues for diagnosis and rule out other diseases. Genetic analysis is important for diagnosis and be done in the absence of RRF on muscle biopsy.

006060   Chakote V M;Deshpande K A;Rachana B;Pandya B S;Vaishali C;Pooja W (Pathology Dep, Grant Medical College and Sir J.J. Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, Maharashtra) : Histoid leprosy in a seropositive male. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 254.

006059   Boopathy T B;Vizhi E;Chandramoleswari (NO, Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu) : Synovial sarcoma of bone. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 257.

006058   Behera B;Behera S K;Rao E S;Dei K L (NO, M.K.C.G. Medical College, Brahmapur, Orissa) : Disseminated cutaneous rhinosporidiosis. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 253.

006057   Baruah A;Baruha A (NO, , C/o Dr. Sanjay Kumar Chetia, Pragoti Nagar, Near Satsang Kendra, Bongalpukhuri, NA-ALI, Jorhat-785 001, Email: abaruah@yahoo.com) : Epidemiological study of violence: a study from north East India. Indian J community Med 2007, 32(2), 137-8.

^ssc2 tables, 4 ref

006056   Barua A;Mangesh R;Harsha Kumar H N;Mathew S (Community Medicine Dep, Sikkim-Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences (SMIMS), 5th Mile Tadong, Gangtok-737 102, Email: ankurbarua26@yahoo.com) : A cross-sectional study on quality of life in geriatric population. Indian J community Med 2007, 32(2), 146-7.

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006055   Bandyopadhyay A;Laha R;Das T K;Sipra Sen; Mangal S;Mitra P K (NO, , C/o Dr. Asok Kumar Mandal, 1692, Fulorhat, P.O. Sonarpur, Kolkata-700 150, Email: puspanjalidr@yahoo.com) : CT guided fine needle aspiration cytology of thoracic mass lesions: a prospective study of immediate cytological evaluation. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 51-5.

Evaluates the role of CT guided FNAC as diagnostic and supportive investigation for thoracic lesions, 190 patients were studied during two years period from March 2003 to February 2005 in our institution. A total number of 163 (85.8%) lung lesions, 22 (11.6%) mediastinal lesions and 05 (2.6%) pleural lesions were obtained; only neoplastic lesions were categorized as per WHO classification. The diagnostic sensitivity for malignancy was 97.71% and specificity 100%. Though our priority was cytological assessment, the cytological diagnosis was corroborated with clinico-radiological parameters and transbronchial biopsies whenever applicable.

8 illus, 6 tables, 10 ref

006054   Baak J P A;Harsh Mohan (Pathology Dep, Stavanger Univ Hospital, Armauer Hansen Road 20, 4068 Stavanger, Norway, Email: baja@sus.no) : Genomics and proteomics in neoplasia. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 01-05.

Genomics (the study of the human genome) and Proteomics (analysis of the protein complement of the genome) are increasingly useful in e.g. diagnosis, early cancer detection, prognostication, therapy response prediction, and others. To avoid recent disappointments, -omic tests should always be carefully confirmed in independent prospective validation studies. Unfortunately, molecular oncology services often nm without pathologists, although unique pathobiologic knowledge often can be essential to get the best information. Strategic choices should be made which diseases/organ sites be analyzed and techniques used. Pathologists should quickly familiarize themselves with both -omic techniques and applications, thereby going beyond the usual pathology boundaries.

3 illus, 39 ref

006053   Annam V;Yelikar B R;Inamadar A C (BLDEA's Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Bijapur, Karnataka) : Clinico-pathological study of pruritic papular lesions in HIV infected patients in relationship with CD4, CD8 counts and CD4/CD8 ratio. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 111.

Comparison of clinical and histopathological diagnosis of pruritic papular lesions in HIV infected individuals. Relationship of CD4, CD8 counts and CD4/CD8 ratio with pruritic papular lesions in HIV infected individuals. The present prospective study was carried out in HIV infected individuals with pruritic papular lesions between Sept2005 to Aug2006. HIV antibodies were demonstrated by three different methods (Tridot, Capillus and Combaids tests). In all patients, biopsy of the skin lesions, CD4 count, CD8 count and CD4/CD8 ratio were performed. Special stains were performed wherever required. Of 63 HIV infected patients with skin lesions, pruritic papular lesions were seen in 36 (57.14%) cases. Age ranged from 6 to 60 years with male: female ratio of 2.44:1. The commonest pruritic papular lesions with their mean CD4 count were prurigo simplex (50.36 cells/ mm³), eosinophilic folliculitis (302.36 cells/mm³), and bacterial folliculitis (564.60 cells/mm³). Clinically pruritic papular lesions are difficult to differentiate and pose a diagnostic dilemma. Therefore, skin biopsies play a vital role in identification of the specific lesion. Prurigo simplex and eosinophilic folliculitis act as clinical markers in HIV infected patients.

111 ref

006052   Agrawal U B;Salgia P;Verma S;Agarwal A;Saxena S (NO, Institute of Pathology, ICMR, Delhi) : Biomarker profile of recurrent and muscle invasive superficial transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 127-28.

Objective is to study the expression of tumor markers p53 and p21WAF-l and growth factor receptors -TGF-βR and VEGFR. in superficial transitional cell cancer (TCC) of the bladder to correlate with recurrence/progression of the disease. The study included 62 cases of superficial TCC of bladder, which were on follow-up for 6 to 48 months. These patients were administered adjuvant intra-vesical chemo or immuno-therapy, following transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT). Cell spots of bladder tumor tissue were prepared on poly-L-lysine coated slides. Immuno-fluorescent staining of these cell spots was done for the following markers, p53, p21-WAF-l, TGF-beta receptor and VEGFR. Stained cell spots were observed under confocal microscopy for the expression of biomarkers. FITC was used as the fluorescent stain. p53 and p21 were expressed in 68.7% cases each, while VEGFR was expressed in 46.8% and TGF-βR was expressed in 43.7% cases. p53 and VEGFR expression was found to increase with increasing grade of turner (p= 0.002) and TGF-beta expression decreased with increasing grade of tumor (p= 0.004). p53 expression had a significant direct association with VEGFR expression (p= 0.001). TGF-beta expression had a significant indirect association with VEGFR expression (p=0.03) and p53 expression (p=0.0001). In the study the biomarker profile p53+/VEGFR+/p21+/TGF beta -ve was seen in 75% cases of recurrent and muscle-invasive disease and is probably the predictor of bladder cancer recurrence, progression and decreased survival.

006051   Agarwal S;Jain M;Pujani M (NO, , LHMC & Smt. Sucheta Kirplani Hospital) : Her 2-neu positivity in squamous component of metaplastic carcinoma. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 257.

006050   Afroz T;Radha S (NO, Kamineni Hospitals, Andhra Pradesh) : Cytological diagnosis of infections in post transplant patients. Indian J Path Microbiol 2007, 50(1), 116.

Evaluates the role of cytology for rapid diagnosis of infections in post transplant patients. This study was done in the department of pathology over a period of 10 years. During this period 305 transplants were performed and 47 infections were diagnosed. The material studied was FNAC of superficial lesions, guided aspirations of deep seated lesions and BAL fluid. Apart from the routine stains, stains for AFB and Fungii were done. Out of the 47 infections 5 were bacterial,19 were Mycobacterial,20 fungal infections, 2 viral and 1 pneumocystis were diagnosed. Cytology material offers a rapid and specific diagnosis of infections. Quick interpretation can identify an infection that may need ancillary studies and can also provide material for microbiological examination.

005198   Varshney R K (A biologists confrerie, , Raj Bhawan, Manik Chowk, Aligarh-202 001) : Glimpse of biodiversity in the gangetic plains ecosystem. Bionotes 2007, 9(3), 72-3.

44 ref

005197   Vaidya V K;Khade R G;Rajyaguru B S (ep of Microbiology, Institute of Science, Madam cama road, Mumbai-400 032) : Bioburden of medicinal herbs. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(1), 35-8.

Herbal pharmaceutical formulations have a growing market in the western countries. Despite a great demand, there is a complete lack of quality control standards that are applied to them. The investigation aimed at studying the microbial load (bioburden) of various medicinal herbs like Dagadphul, Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Amla, Behada, Harde and Dalchini that are commonly used in phamaceutical preparations. The load was determined in terms of total viable count along with counts of Yeasts and moulds, Streptococci, Staphylococci and Coliforms. Bioburden of 'Triphala churna" made up of Amla, Behada and Harde belonging to three different batches was also studied and compared with wHO standards. The results revealed varied microbial load on these medicinal herbs. Though the raw materials used in the preparation of the "churna" were of acceptable quality, the "Churna" from different bathces showed variation in the bioburden.

1 table, 6 ref

005196   Sharma S K;Ilavazhagan G;Kain A K;Singh S N; Singh S B;Sairam M;Sharma Y K;Banerjee P K (NO, Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi-110 054) : Effect of prolonged stay at high altitude on the reproductive parameters of lowlanders studied after descent to plains - a cross sectional study. Biomedicine 2006, 26(3-4), 63.

Changes in the reproductive parameters in the human subjects following descent to the plains after a stay of 9-13 months at high altitude (14000ft) was investigated in 90 subjects in 3 groups of 30 each. The investigations were carried out after 5 days, 30 days and 60 days of descent to the plains. The fourth group of 30 subjects who always stayed in the plains and were never posted to the high altitude served as the control. Investigations covered sperm count, motility, progressive motility, morphology, viability and hypo-osmotic swelling test of the sperm, and biochemical parameters of the semen, i.e. fructose and citric acid level in the seminal fluid. The testosterone level in the blood plasma was also measured. It was observed that all the semen parameters were significantly low in comparison to control, in the group studied immediately after descent i.e. 5 days group, but their levels improved significantly to near normal levels in 30 and 60 days groups. Fructose and citric acid level also improved in 30 days group. The present study showed that the quality of the semen deteriorates on high altitude exposure, but this deterioration is reversible and all parameters come to the normal level in 60 days.

5 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

005195   Munjam S;Girisham S;Reddy S M (Dep of Microbiology, Kakatiya University, Warangal-506 009) : Protease production some anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(1), 75-7.

Protease production by Rhodopseudomonas palustris, Rhodobacter sphaeroides, Rhodocyclus gelatinosus and R. tenuis in two different synthetic media was investigated R. tennuis secreted maximum protease in Biebl and Pfening's medium supplemented with egg albumin on 10 th day after incubation, while R. sphaeroides could secrete comparatively more amount of protease after 10 days of incubation. R. palustris and R. gelatinosus were poor producers of protease. Comparatively higher production of protease in the presence of egg albumin suggests adaptive nature of enzyme protease secreted by the bacteria under investigation. The pH drift was towards alkaline side. There was no correlation between growth of bacterial and proteas production.

1 table, 15 ref

005194   Martins J V C;Otobone F J;Sela V R;Obici S; Trombelli M A;Garcia Cortez D A;Audi E A (Pharmacy and Pharmacology Dep, Universidade Estadual de Maringa, Brazil, Email: spider.501@hotmail.com) : Behavioral effects of Kielmeyera coriacea extract in rats. Indian J Pharmac 2006, 38(6), 427-8.

1 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

005193   Mahalakshmi K;Prabhakar J;Sukumaran V G (Microbiology Dep, Sree Balaji Dental College & Hospital, Chennai-601 302, Email: kmag_1985@yahoo.co.in) : Antibacterial activity of triphala, GTP & curcumin on enterococci faecalis. Biomedicine 2006, 26(3-4), 43-6.

Enterococci, the leading causes of nosocomial bacteremia, surgical wound infection and Urinary-tract infections are becoming resistant to many and sometimes all standard Therapies. Most Enterococcal infections are caused by E faecalis. Enterococci are part of the normal human flora and are usually found in relatively small concentration in the mouth. They are the most frequently isolated species in tooth with persistent infection after root canal treatment. The antibacterial activity of Triphala, GTP and Curcumin were investigated using Disc Diffusion test and Broth dilution. The results obtained showed that Triphala, GTP and Curcumin exhibited antibacterial activities against E faecalis (ATCC 29212). Triphala produced a large zone of inhibition. The minimum inhibitory concentration for Triphala and GTP was 06.25mg/ml. The minimum inhibitory concentration for Curcumin was 12.5mg/ml respectively.

1 table, 17 ref

005192   Lakhanpal S;Singh S (Zoology Dep, School of Life Sciences, Dr. b R Ambedkar niversity, Agra) : Haematological studies on the toxic profile of nicotine in the albino rat, Rattus norvegicus. Bionotes 2007, 9(3), 92.

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005191   Kulvir Kaur;Oberoi K;Sharma S (Family Resource Management Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : Assessment of muscular stresses during grain cleaning and storage activities with the use of traditional tools. Indian J Ecol 2007, 34(1), 76-7.

Study is undertaken to assess muscular stresses and postural deviation during performance of selected grain storage activities. The study was conducted on 30 farmwomen of Hoshiarpur district. Muscular stresses during the performance of selected activities were recorded from the frequency of changing the body postures during work, intensity of pain in different parts of the body, muscular fatigue of hand grip and postural deviation. The result of study showed that angle of deviation in lumbar region was maximum for cleaning grains in sitting posture (12.2) leading to severe body pain. Fatigue was also found very high when the women performed the said activities with the traditional tools. Due to the severe musculo skeletal problems the women felt pain in various body parts making them very uncomfortable in work.

1 table, 7 ref

005190   Agarwal S (NO, , No. 15, Eagle Street, Langford Town, Bangalore-560 025, Email: dr_agarwal@vsnl.com) : The mana effect- a phenomenal transformation of adult differentiated cells into mana cells resembling adult stem cells - the successful ethical alternative. Biomedicine 2006, 26(3-4), 47-53.

Differentiated cells can be transdifferentiated into adult stem cell like state by addition of Mana. Little is known about the factors that induce this transdifferentiation. Here, we demonstrate the induction of Mana cells from adult White Blood Cells (WBC's) by fusing them with Mana. Thus, overcoming the ethical issues arising with the use of human embryos and problems associated with tissue rejection following transplantation in patients. These cells which we call as Mana cells, exhibit the morphology and growth properties of adult stem cells and shows absence of CD proteins on the cell surface, which are markers of adult differentiated cells. Injection of these cells into the patient's eye sub-conjunctively, contributed to the improvement in the patient's ophthalmic condition clinically.

1 table, 51 ref

005189    (Office of Cell and Gene Therapy, Tumor Vaccine and Biotechnology Branc, , FDA, DHHS, USA) : Microarray of genes and proteins: discovery tools for diagnosis and therapy from pharmacogenomics for the practice of personalized medicine. Sci Cult 2007, 73(1-2), 5-18.

In spite of enormous complexity of genetic circuits and dynamic signaling pathways of multiple proteins in the trillions of cells in the human body, this fragile functional machine does not get enough respect for wha it does and how meticulously, continuously and quietly it works hard to salvage us from a few self-inflicted wounds of smoking, alcohol abuse and a few other unavoidable issues of envieronmental exposure to polluted air and water and inadequate habitats and lack of nutrition, hygiene and knowlede of selfcare. The bold approach of using Systems Biology for this human machine may give us a powerful handle to know and deal with the weaker linksat an early stage before the deadly diseases may strike and make it dysfunctional, painful, and irreversibly unrepairable in spite of exorbitant enormous healthcare cost of trillions of dollars. the microarrays of genes, messenger ribonucleic acids and proteins along with the computational tools give us a snapshot of this fragile network of gears, switches and feed-forward and feed-backward loops active in the early development, growth, maintenance, loss of control and degeneration in the lae phase of life. As the cost of sequencing and related technologies is going down, the studies of comparative genomics and small gene-variants from race, religion, gender and color, are showing us how close we are to each other and other species of lives in this planet and how we should learn and live a quality life of creativitymon the batton to the next generation with pride and dignity. I look a small step to cover some of these novel tools and technologies that may make us aware of our own biology and its medical implications and place us on a responsible driver's seat to practice the personalized medicien at every corner of this global village.

7 illus, 57 ref

004340   Vimala Y;Sumathi Devi K;Elizabeth K M (Microbio Dep, College of Science Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management, Visakhapatnam-530 045) : Antimicrobial activity of ethyl acetate extracts of D. hamiltonii on microbial isolates of spoiled vegetables and pathogenic microorganisms. Asian J Chem 2007, 19(1), 801-3.

The antimicrobial activity of Decalepis hamiltonii was tested by disc diffusion method against microbial isolates from spoiled vegetables and pathogenic microorganisms. The crude aqueous extract, cold ethyl acetate extract, ethyl acetate distillate and residual extracts of the roots were used for the study. The crude extracts showed largest zones to LF₁ (isolate), AG (isolate), B (isolate), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, i.e., 8 mm zones. The cold ethyl acetate extract showed maximum activity against LF₂ (isolate), i.e., 24 mm. The distillate showed activity against P₂ (isolate) and B (isolate), i.e., 15 mm. The residual extract showed maximum activity against Aspergillus flavus (27.5 mm), Salmonella typhimurium (27.5 mm), AG (isolate) (25.0 mm), LF₃ (isolate) (25.0 mm) indicating that the residual extracts were strongly inhibitory. The results indicate that the residual extracts can be used as broad spectrum antimicrobial agent.

1 table, 5 ref

004339   Vimala Y;Aruna Chandana Kumari;Elizabeth K M (Microbiology Dep, College of Science Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management, Visakhapatnam-530 045) : Antimicrobial activity of hexane extracts of D. hamiltonii on microbial isolates of spoiled vegetables and pathogenic microorganisms. Asian J Chem 2007, 19(1), 804-6.

The antimicrobial activity of Decalepis hamiltonii was tested by disc diffusion method against microbial isolates from spoiled vegetables and pathogenic microorganisms. The crude aqueous extract, cold hexane extract, hexane distillate and residual extracts of the roots were used for the study. The crude extracts showed largest zones to E. coli, i.e., 15 mm zones. The cold hexane extract showed maximum activity against P₂ (isolate), B (isolate), Serratia marcescens and Rhizopus species, i.e., 15 mm. The distillate showed 6 mm zones to all the microorganisms tested. The residual extract showed maximum activity against E. coli (28 mm), Aspergillus flavus (24 mm), P₁ (isolate) (20.0 mm), Candida albicans (20.0 mm) indicating that the residual extracts were strongly inhibitory. The results indicate that the residual extracts can be used as broad spectrum antimicrobial agents.

1 table, 5 ref

004338   Vijayakumar T P;Nazni P;Palvannan T (Food Science Dep, Periyar Univ, Salem, Tamil Nadu) : Therapeutic effect of formulated dietary supplement 'RENAC' on selected chronic renal failure subjects. Asian J Bio Sci 2007, 2(1-2), 39-46.

The present investigation was carried out in two phases to know the supplementary effect of formulated dietary supplement 'RENAC'(Renal Natural Care) on nutritional status of 25 selected Chronic Renal Failure (CRP) patients (30-60 years of age) undergoing the hemodialysis. In phase I 'RENAC' food was formulated with locally available cereals, fruits, vegetables and coconut palm jaggery and analyzed for it acceptability and nutrient content such as energy, protein, sodium, potassium and iron. In phase II the organoleptically accepted and nutritionally analyzed formulated 'RENAC' food was supplemented to the selected CRP patients for 90 days at a level of 15gday^-1 and the therapeutic effect of 'RENAC' food was analyzed through serum/blood/ urine parameters. Results of the present study revealed that the formulated 'RENAC' food contains 2.7 g kg^-1 of protein, 0.536 g kg^-1 of sodium and 1.550 g kg^-1 of potassium and organoleptically accepted with mean organoleptic score of 65.9±15.5. Biochemical profile after supplementation indicated an increase in serum calcium (2.68±0.77 mg dl^-1) and a decrease in serum creatinine (0.8±0.1 mg dl^-1), serum potassium (0.28±0.03 mmol l^-1) serum sodium (4.2±0.8 mmol 1^-1) and urinary protein (1.1 g day^-1) levels which was found to be statistically significant. There was no significant change in serum protein and blood hemoglobin level after supplementation. Thus the present study concluded that the formulated 'RENAC' food will reduce load to the damaged kidney and promote good quality of life to CRP patients.

7 tables, 48 ref

004337   Vijaya Lakshmi R;Madhukar J;Prasad M S K (Biochemistry Dep, NRI Medical College, China kakani Andhra Pradesh) : Isolation and amino acid composition of pigeon (Columba livia) egg white and egg yolk riboflavin carrier protein. Asian J Bio Sci 2007, 2(1-2), 1-4.

Riboflavin carrier protein (RCP) from pigeon egg white and egg yolk have been isolated. The molecular weight of purified RCP of pigeon egg white and yolk has been found to be nearly same as that of previously isolated hen egg white and yolk RCPs. The amino acid composition of pigeon RCPs were observed to be almost similar to that of hen RCPs.

2 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

004336   Vasavi D;Ramchander M;Girisham S;Reddy S M (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal, A.P.) : Incidence and cultural characteristics of anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(2), 139-45.

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

4 tables, 13 ref

004335   Thangavel N V;Gupta J K (NO, PSG College of Pharmacy, Peelamedu, Coimbatore-4, (T.N.)) : Antimicrobial and anthelmintic activity of Andrographis stenophylla leaf. Int J chem Sci 2006, 4(3), 431-28.

The effect of various extracts of Andrographis stenophylla leaf on different bacterial and fungal strains and its anthelmentic activity has been studied. The methanol extract showed -higher inhibitory activity against the bacterial strains. The dichloroethane extract showed remarkable activity against various fungi tested. The results also indicate that the methanol extract has potent anthelmintic activity.

3 tables, 38 ref

004334   Talat R;Azmat R;Aziz F;Mahmood S J;Ahmed K (Zoology Dep, Jinnah Univ, Women 5-C Nazimabad Karachi 74600 (Pakistan)) : Biochemical study of trash fish for their utilization in Pakistan. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2007, 4(1), 117-22.

The commercial and industrial catch of marine fishes generally consists of edible and inedible species. Among inedible species the bulk catches of small size fishes are also included and these small fishes are commonly referred to as trash fish or Low value fish . Therefore this research has been designed to evaluate the nutritive compound found in trash fish which is commonly catches along with the commercial and industrial catch of marine fishes. The moisture, crude protein, crude fat and calorific value were estimated by standard methods. The results were discussed in relation with the utilization of important compounds like protein, crude fat and amino acids in food, medicine and other commercial purposes.

13 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

004333   Singh J;Dani H M;Sharma R (Biochemistry Dep, Kurukshetra Univ, Kurukshetra-136 119, Email: jaid22in@rediffmail.com) : Electron microscopic depiction of microsomal degranulation by chemical carcinogens. Indian J Dairy Sci 2007, 60(1), 33-5.

Effects of carcinogens on the microsomes of rat liver have been examined under electron microscope. Disorganisation and degranulation of microsomal membranes have been observed in the presence of carcinogens. These effects are more pronounced in the presence of potent carcinogens. These polyribosomes released by carcinogens might be engaged in the production of important control proteins, which are the components of plasma membrane, gap junctions and intercellular matrix. The dearth of these proteins at these localizations might modify signal transduction mechanisms leading to carcinogenesis.

2 illus, 9 ref

004332   Shukla K;Saraf S;Saraf S (Institute of Pharmacy, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla Univ, Raipur-492 010) : Study of macroscopic and microscopic plant characters: assure the presence of plant constituents in traditional ayurvedic formulation. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2007, 4(1), 207-12.

Determines macroscopic, microscopic characteristics of the plants constituents in raw material and in final product for assuring the presence of plant material in the Ayurvedic formulation.Three batches of Bhaskar Lavan Churna were prepared in laboratory and three samples from different manufacturers were procured and subjected to various analysis. The macroscopic characteristics of different plant parts used in the formulation are sufficient to establishing the identity. The microscopic characters of powdered plant material give idea about presence of the different herbs in Ayurvedic formulation. The determined microscopic characters when analyzed in laboratory and marketed formulation, absence of different characters have been observed in marketed formulations. The determined macroscopic and microscopic characters can be used as a standard in routine quality control of the formulation.

4 tables, 10 ref

004331   Sharma M (NO, Instituto de Quimica, Coyoacan, Mexico D.F. 04510, Email: pankajsh@servidor.unam.mx) : Detection of hydrolyzed fumonisins B₁ and B₂ by use of high performance liquid chromatography in sorghum. Asian J Chem 2007, 19(1), 499-504.

Fumonisins are a family of mycotoxins produced by Fusarium moniliforme and F. Proliferatiun, two of the most prevalent fungal contaminants of maize, sorghum, millet and many other agricultural products. The most readily identifiable and toxicologically active metabolites of fumonisins B₁ and B₂ are hydrolyzed fumonisins B₁ (HFB₁) and B₂ (HFB₂). Quantification of these fumonisins in sorghum samples was done using reversed phase HPLC with fluorescence detection and OPA (o-phthaldialdehyde/2-mercaptoethanol) derivation method at λ_ex 370/λ_ex 418 nm. Detection limit was 20 ppb for both hydrolyzed fumonisins at a signal-to-noise ratio of 4 : 1. To the best of .our knowledge this report appears to be the first study on the quantitative determination of HFB₁ and HFB₂ in naturally contaminated sorghum. HFB₂ was absent in all the samples. In this study, the average, hydrolyzed fumonisin B₁ and B₂ recoveries for four tested levels were 95.4% and 69.3% respectively. In conclusion, as corn is one of the major dietary staples for both animals and humans worldwide and many workers have reported their work on it, so there is need to study on the levels and production of fumonisins and their hydrolyzed moieties in sorghum also.

2 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

004330   Sarraf N S;Saboury A A;Nemati T;Karbassi F (Biophys Dep, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Tehran Univ, Tehran, Iran, Email: saboury@ut.ac.ir) : Sucrose: a potent stabilizer for carbonic anhydrase. Asian J Chem 2007, 19(1), 531-8.

The effect of sucrose as a very potent osmolyte and stabilizer on the structure and activity of bovine carbonic anhydrase has been studied using different techniques. Sucrose has been shown to stabilize the enzyme against inactivation alongside of time. Besides, it seems that the enzyme got greater thermal stability in the existence of sucrose because both the transition temperature (T_m) and the standard Gibbs free energy (ΔG°₂₅) in protein thermal denaturation were increased. It seems that sucrose can have these effects through inducing some alterations in the structure of carbonic anhydrase.

4 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

004329   Sangeeta Kumari;Sahu K;Shukla S (Botany Dep, Microbiology Lab, Dr. H.S. Gour Univ, Sagar Madhya Pradesh.) : Enzymatic properties of bacterial protease. Asian J Bio Sci 2007, 2(1-2), 181-3.

Enzymes are macromolecules, with highly specialized catalytic functions produced by all living organisms. Enzymes are responsible for many essential biochemical reactions in microorganisms, plants, animals and human beings. Their existence was associated with the history of ancient Greece where they were using enzymes from microorganisms in various processes. Modern genetic engineering techniques have made it possible to produce relatively rare enzyme with many of industrial and medical applications in large quantities. Although enzymes derived from a range of organism are being used commercially, certain properties of these proteins can be further improved. For example, it may be advantageous to increase the heat stability or alter the pH optimum of an enzyme thus improve the efficiency of a defined process. The present article reviews some environmental effects on bacterial strains which are producing proteases.

22 ref

004328   Ramadass P;Ananthi R;Senthil Kumar T M A; Ramaswamy V (Animal Biotechnology Dep, Madras Veterinary College, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Chennai-600 007) : Rapid detection of mycoplasma gallisepticum antibodies using latex agglutination test. Indian vet J 2007, 84(2), 127-9.

A simple and inexpensive test based on latex agglutination test (LAT) was developed for Mycoplasma gallisepticum antibody detection in serum. It was detected by agglutination on a glass slide using latex beads coated with MG antigen. By evaluation of serum from 209 birds, it was observed that the LAT was equally sensitive as that of Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). LAT and ELISA were of equal sensitivity when tested on a population with a high level of infection. The advantage of the LAT over the ELISA is that it is comparatively simple to perform. LAT for MG antibody detection would prove particularly useful in identifying infected birds as it combines sensitivity with low cost and easier of application in the field. Without the need for any trained specialist or equipment.

9 ref

004327   Pourvaghar M J;Hallajbashi S (Physical Education Dep, Kashan Univ, Kashan (Iran)) : Survey of cardiovascular condition, risk factors, and general health of university staff employees. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2007, 4(1), 71-6.

Purpose of this descriptive research was the examination of cardiovascular conditions of 90 university staff employees, though Risko and GHQ-28 questionnaires. The variables of the research include: age, heredity, weight, physical exercises, cholesterol, systolic pressure, sex and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). The analysis of the data showed that 74.4% of the subjects were from 2.7 to 29.5 kg overweight. 91.1% of them, according to their own claim, were not addicted to any kind of drugs or cigarettes. The amount of cholesterol of 58.9% of the subjects ranged from 206 to 230 and the systolic pressure of 62.2% of them was 120 mmHg. 53.3% of the subjects were in Risk General Average condition. 1.1% of them were in Risk at Dangerous Level condition. Finally, the observed Pearson's correlation between the two variables of Risko and GHQ-28 was -0.036, which, according to the critical table (chart), means there is no significant correlation between these two variables.

2 tables, 24 ref

004326   Patil R C;Jadhav U;Upadhye M V (Life Sciences Dep, Mumbai Univ, Santacruz, Mumbai-400 098) : Efficiency of ginger extract in controlling biofilm of Klebsiella pneumoniae. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2007, 4(1), 301-3.

Administration of increased number and the dosage of antibiotics are resulting in the emergence of microbial strains that are resistant to antibiotics. Klebsiella pneumoniae is one such microorganism. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of ginger extract on a biofilm of Klebsiella pneumoniae. The effectiveness of a standard antibiotic was also checked and the results were compared with those given by ginger extract.

3 illus, 9 ref

004325   Parekh B B;Joshi M J;Vaidya A D B (Institute of Diploma Studies, Nirma Univ Science and Technology, Ahmedabad-384 481, Email: mshilp24@rediffmail.com) : Modification of gel technique for micro-crystals of biomaterials: In situ growth and dissolution studies. Curr Sci 2007, 93(3), 373-8.

In the process of biocrystallization and biomineralization, the growth of crystals occurs under tissue conditions prevalent in the body. Many biomaterial crystals are initiated at micrometre size and have different morphologies. Such micro-crystals play a pathogenetic role in different diseases. Hence, an in vitro method to induce micro-crystals of biomaterials is desirable as a model to study the morphogenesis as well as its reversal by intervention. A modified gel technique for the growth of micro-crystals of biomaterials is proposed. The growth of urinary type-calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate (CHPD) is carried out to verify the utility of the technique. Growth inhibition and dissolution of CHPD crystals by solutions of different concentrations of citric acid is studied in situ. This technique is economical, needs less amount of material and can be used in batches in aseptic conditions with in situ observations under optical microscope. For in vitro studies of growth inhibition and dissolution of biomaterial crystals by different solutions and herbal ayurvedic plant under aseptic conditions, the present model provides a screening tool for drug development of urinary litho-lytic agents.

6 illus, 35 ref

004324   Onovo J C;Ogbonna C I C (Biological Sciences Dep, Nasarawa State Univ, P.M.B. 1022, Keffi (Nigeria)) : Some microorganisms associated with exposed soyabean milk. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2007, 4(1), 213-16.

Samples of soyabean milk were extracted from the seeds of soyabeans (Glycine max). The microorganisms isolated from the exposed samples included Bacillus subtilis, B. cereus, Lactobacillus spp, Staphyloccus aureus, Mortierella wolfii, Candida pseudotropicalis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and S. fubiliger. These microorganisms rendered the soyabean milk unpalatable and unsafe for consumption by the production of toxic metabolites. The unexposed samples had relatively lower load of microorganisms. There was significant difference in the pH values of the exposed samples as compared to the unexposed samples.

3 tables, 7 ref

004323   Olanlokun J O;David O M (Biochemistry Dep, Ado-Ekiti Univ, P. M. B. 5363, Ado-Ekiti, (Nigeria)) : Antibacterial activity of partitioned methanolic extract of Alstonia boonei (De Wild) against some medically important pathogens. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2007, 4(1), 135-9.

Methanolic extract of Alstonia boonei (De Wild) has been reported to be very effective against bacterial pathogens. Four solvents (hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and distilled water) were used to. . partition the concentrated crude methanolic extract. The fractions were further diluted by dimethyl sulphuroxide (DMSO). The concentrations used were 100, 50 and 25 mg/ml. Standard method was used to test the antibacterial properties of the fractions against nine clinically important pathogens. Hexane fraction showed no inhibition on Enterococcus faecalis but inhibit other test organisms at 25 mg/ml. Staphylococcus aureus was resistant to aqueous fraction at a very low concentration (25 mgl ml). Shigella dysenteriae and Escherichia coli were most susceptible to aqueous fraction with zone of inhibition ranging between 18 and 5 mm. Chloroform fraction was the most effective out of the four fractions. Streptococcus sp, Staphylococcus aureus Proteus mirabilis and Escherichia coli were resistant  to Ethyl acetate fraction at 25 mg/ml. Ethyl acetate had the least activity on the test organisms. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranged between 0 and 25 mg/ml.

4 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

004322   Oke O A;Hassan A T (Biological Sciences Dep, Cross River Univ Technology Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria, West Africa, Email: olubodeoke@yahoo.com) : Factors responsible for distribution of insect species on water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes on Ogun river, Nigeria. Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 129-36.

The factors responsible for the distribution of insect species on Eichhomia crassipes (water hyacinth) on Ogun River, Nigeria were studied. The factors included the rainfall pattern, the air temperature and the water current of the river. Population density of adult insect species was higher in the wet season than in the dry season. The wet season was noted for rapid growth and proliferation of the water hyacinth which served as feed and shelter for the insect species. The drop in air temperature in the wet season had positive effect on the distribution of the insect species. The water current appeared unimportant in the distribution of the insect species.

2 tables, 17 ref

004321   Oke O A;Adekoya B B;Agbon O O;Ikenweiwe B N (Biological Sciences Dep, Agriculture Univ, P.M.B 2240 Abeokuta, Nigeria) : Assessment of the distribution and biological control of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) (Marts) Solms : Pontedariaceae in Ogun state, south - west, Nigeria. Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 151-4.

An assessment of the distribution of water hyacinth in Ogun State, Nigeria was made by using the index mapping exercise of distribution. The names of the coastal lagoons, rivers and fresh water bodies infested with water hyacinth were identified. The major rivers infested with water hyacinth were rivers Ogun, Ona, Osun, Sunmoge (or Oni), Yewa, Oyan and Sasa. The coastal lagoons included the Lagos lagoons, Yewa lagoon and the Lekki lagoon. Neochetina eichhorniae was used to control the growth of water hyacinth. The degree of damage to water hyacinth was observed to be directly proportion to the density of Neochetina eichhorniae feeding on the water hyacinth. This showed that N. eichhorniae is an excellent candidate for the biological control of water hyacinth.

2 tables, 17 ref