047752   AKASH S, AHALYA N, DHAMODHAR P (Biotechnology Dep, M.S. Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bangalore - 560 054, Email: dhamu_bio@msrit.edu, dhamu.bio@gmail.com) : Green synthesis, characterization and antimicrobial activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles on clinical isolates of streptococcus pyogenes. Asian J. Chem 2020, 32 (4), 907 - 11.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using epicarp of Punica granatum by combustion method at moderate temperatures. Zinc oxide nanoparticles obtained in agglomerate form were characterized by powder X - ray diffractometer (PXRD) and found to have hexagonal phase, wurtzite structure. The crystalline size of nanoparticle was found to be ~ 60 nm by using Debye - Scherrer formula. The morphology Index, Lorentz factor and Lorentz polarization factor were also calculated. Ultraviolet - visible spectroscopy (UV - vis) spectrum for ZnO nanoparticle showed a strong absorbance at 374 nm. This corresponds to the calculated band gap energy of 3.48 eV and the particle size calculated using band gap was found to be 50 nm. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectrum showed a peak at 499 cm - 1, which indicated Zn - O stretch bond. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis proved the size of nanoparticles synthesized were around 50 nm and energy dispersive X - ray spectroscopy (EDS) revealed the elemental composition of zinc oxide nanoparticles. The ZnO - NPs were evaluated for antibacterial activity against gram positive, tonsillitis causing Streptococcus pyogenes. From the present study, it was concluded that zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized by combustion method could be valuable and economic in the field of nanotechnology.

6 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

047699   GURUSWAMY D K M, JAYARAMA S (Biotechnology Dep, Teresian Coll, Mysuru - 570 011, Email: sankkar.bio@gmail.com) : Synthesis, Characterization and Anti - inflammatory Activity of (2E) - 3 - (2 - Bromo - 6 - hydroxy - 4 - methoxyphenyl) - 1 - (naphthalene - 2 - yl)prop - 2 - en - 1 - one. Asian J. Chem 2020, 32 (3), 561 - 4.

(2E) - 3 - (2 - Bromo - 6 - hydroxy - 4 - methoxyphenyl) - 1 - (naphthalene - 2 - yl)prop - 2 - en - 1 - one (d1) was synthesized by the Claisen - Schmidt condensation method and characterized by 1 H NMR, 13C NMR spectral studies. The anti - inflammatory activity was conducted in Swiss albino rats for paw edema model. Edema was actuated with 1 % carrageenan to every one of the animals following 1 h of the oral medicines. Paw thickness was checked at t = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 24 h. Stair climbing score and motility score were surveyed at t = 24 h. Compound d1 signicant decline in paw thickness at p < 0.001 diminished by 32 % in paw thickness. The compound d1 signicantly expanded the stair climbing and motility score. This study suggested that the compound d1 exhibits remarkable anti - inflammatory activity when compared with that of the standard drug.

2 illus, 25 ref

047691   CHINTALAPUDI V K, KANAMARLAPUDI R K S L, MALLU U R, MUDDADA S (Biotechnology Dep, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram - 522 502, Email: sudhamani1@rediffmail.com) : Enhanced Biosorption of Pb(II) ions from aqueous solutions onto citric acid treated aspergillus niger biomass: Equilibrium and kinetic studies. Asian J. Chem 2020, 32 (3), 508 - 14.

In the present study, initially Aspergillus niger was tested for biosorption of Pb(II) ions and then studied the effect of pretreatment for enhanced biosorption. It was found that the maximum biosorption potential was achieved with citric acid treatment (70.56 %) in comparison with the biomass without treatment (65.46 %) at a biosorbent dose of 20 mg/L, pH 4, 100 rpm, 37 ?C for 8 h. The optimized conditions for treated Aspergillus niger were determined by optimizing the biosorption parameters such as pH, temperature, biomass dose, incubation time and agitation speed. This study indicates that the citric acid treated Aspergillus niger is an effective biosorbent for removal of lead (II) at optimized conditions with the maximum biosorption potential of 83.6 % as compared to previous reported work. SEM - EDX and FTIR analysis showed the structural variations and the functional groups involved in lead biosorption, respectively. Biosorption kinetics showed that pseudo second order kinetic model as the better fit.

8 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

047670   SAMRAT K, SHARATH R, CHANDRAPRABHA M N, KRISHNA R H, PREETHAM R, HARISH B G (Biotechnology Dep, Visvesvaraya Technological Univ, Bangalore - 560 054, Email: sharathsarathi@gmail.com, chandraprabhamn@yahoo.com, harishbg29@gmail.com ) : Comparative study of cytotoxic activity of nano silver against A549 and L929 cell lines. Asian J. Chem 2020, 32 (2), 374 - 80.

Studies in recent years are focussed on anticancer drugs which can selectively induce cell death with less toxicity to normal cells. The present work therefore aims at exploring the potential of nano silver as selective anticancer drug by comparing its cytotoxic activity against human lung carcinoma cell line (A549) and mouse normal fibroblast cell line (L929) in vitro. Nano silver was synthesized by both chemogenic (AgNP - C) and biogenic (AgNP - B) method and characterized by using PXRD, SEM and TEM. In order to assess the molecular mechanism involved in cytotoxicity, apoptosis inducing effect of nano silver was assessed by Annexin V/PI staining, cell cycle analysis and caspase - 3 expression study. From the results, it was confirmed that A549 cells treated with nano silver showed decreased cell viability (AgNP - C: 173.5 ? 2.51 ?g/mL, AgNP - B: 29.2 ? 0.22 ?g/mL) compared to L929 cells (AgNP - C: 317.2 ? 3.43 ?g/mL, AgNP - B: 622.3 ? 1.6 ?g/mL), indicating lower toxicity of nano silver towards normal cells. Apoptotic study, cell cycle analysis and caspase - 3 studies showed decreased expression of Bcl - 2 and increased expression of Bax mitochondrial genes facilitating release of cytochrome c (cyt c) into cytosol by disrupting mitochondrial membrane potential indicating induction of cell death in A549 cells through mitochondrial mediated intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Present investigation provides conclusive evidence for application of biogenic nano silver as a potential candidate for anticancer drug development.

3 illus, 3 tables, 49 ref

047598   THAKUR P, CHANDER H (Biosciences Dep, Career Point Univ, Hamirpur - 176 041, HP, Email: hemchander78@gmail.com) : Floristic studies on cryptogams of sujanpur - tihra region of Himachal Pradesh . Asian J. Adv. Basic Sci 2020, 8 (2), 17 - 20.

Cryptogams play an important role in maintaining the quality of habitat. These include lower plants such as algae, bryophytes, lichens and pteridophytes. Cryptogams are the least explored plants in the Sujanpur - Tihra region of Himachal Pradesh. The floristic studies to explore cryptogams of this region were conducted and two hundred specimens of cryptogams were collected from eighteen localities. These specimens were identified on the basis of available literature after detailed morphological investigations at laboratory. A total of forty five species of cryptogams were identified which includes nine algae, ten bryophytes, seven lichens and nineteen pteridophytes. Most of these cryptogams are medicinally important.

1 table, 38 ref

047576    KUMARI V, NEGI S (Biotechnology Dep, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Allahabad - 211 004) : Formulation of biocomposite of ultrasonication mediated cellulose and lignin nanofibers for biomedical applications. Appl innov res 2020, 2 (2), 001 - 8.

Current study deals with the synthesis of bio - composites using nanofibres of lignin and cellulose embedded in pectin. Nanofibres of lignin and cellulose were generated through ultrasonication in varying doses and polymerized with pectin in order to formulate biocomposite through atomic transfer radical polymerization technique. The average size of the cellulose and lignin nanofibers formed were of 7.38 nm and 262.1 nm, respectively on ultra - sonicating it (50% amplitude, 2 sec on and off pulses at 30 ?C) for 15 min. Biocomposite was characterized through TGA analysis, which shows thermal degradation start after 100 ?C and at 761?C about 60% of weight loss was observed, which proved its high thermostability. Scanning electron microscopy study concluded that surface of the biocomposite was smooth and homogenous. The structural analysis using FTIR illustrated ester bond formation between the hydroxyl group of lignin and cellulose with the carboxyl groups of pectin molecules while polymerization, which imparted it thermal stability and strength. On further analysis, biocomposite has shown distinct antioxidant property, negligible cell cytotoxicity and started auto - degenerate just after 15 min in aqueous medium, therefore this can be explored in biomedical and pharmaceutical industries for controlled drug delivery and as drug carrier.

8 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

047506   KUMARI P S, RANJITHA R, VIDHYA N (Microbiology Dep, Rathnavel Subramaniam Coll of Arts and Science, Coimbatore - 641 402, Tamilnadu, Email: sarankumaribs@gmail.com) : Revitalizing property of banana peel extracts by antioxidant activity and antibacterial activity against acne causing Staphylococcus epidermidis. Ann. Phytomed 2020, 9 (2), 215 - 22.

Acne vulgaris is a common skin inflammatory lesion caused by the bacteria, Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Malassezia furfur in the follicular canal of the epidermal layer of skin. In order to combat the problem, Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis are the target for many antiacne drugs. Increasing awareness towards the use of organic based products paved the way to search for medicines from banana peel. In vitro antibacterial activity of acetone extract of banana fruit peel from Musa sapientum investigated on isolated species of acne causing Staphylococcus epidermidis by agar well diffusion technique and minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). Antioxidant activity assayed for the extract by DPPH and ABTS assay methods. Active principle in the extract was separated by analytical and preparative TLC and its antibacterial activity assayed against the pathogen. Maximum antibacterial activity of acetone extract against Staphylococcus epidermidis recorded as 17 mm in diameter, the MIC of the acetone extract recorded as 32 ?g/ml and banana fruit peel powder showed 70% of sorption of pathogen. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of 31.56 ? 0.21 mg gallic acid equivalent of phenols/g of dry banana peel extract and maximum antioxidant activity of 71.21 ? 0.91 and 86.78 ? 0.88 and IC50 as 36.2% and 44.6% by DPPH and ABTS methods, respectively. Further assays confirmed the presence of phenolics, alkaloids, saponins and lipid peroxidase. As banana peel is having biosorption property, high biocompatible phenolics, antibacterial alkaloids and free radical scavenging activity, recommended for facial application to control acne causing Staphylococcus epidermidis.

6 illus, 1 table, 31 ref

047497   VERMA K C, RANA A S, JOSHI N, BHATT D (Biochemistry Dep, Govind Ballabh Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (U. S. Nagar) - 263 145, Email: kcbiochem@gmail.com) : Review on common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench): A potent Himalayan crop. Ann. Phytomed 2020, 9 (2), 125 - 33.

Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench), is the major traditional crop in hilly regions, having high nutritional value, having ability to grow in adverse climatic conditions and requires low cultivating cost. Buckwheat comes with a lot of promise as substitute staple crop as it has all the essential requirements, found in common cultivated crops. Buckwheat having high protein content, a well balanced amino acid composition, essential fats (linoleic, linolenic, etc.), important phenolic compounds (flavonoids: rutin, flavanols, etc.) and other prophylactic compounds, viz., fagopyrins, thiamin - binding proteins, etc. Nowadays, buckwheat cultivation area all over the world is continuously decreasing due to some limitations in its cultivation. In India, Himalayan states are home of the buckwheat production, where it mainly used in various food preparations and for therapeutic remedies like constipation, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular problems, etc. This review includes plants characteristic, cultivation and detailed chemical composition of buckwheat with its utilities. The review is based on the chemical composition of buckwheat, importance and applications of its metabolites and limitations of buckwheat cultivation in present scenario.

4 illus, 4 tables, 81 ref

047482   JAGADHEESWARI R, LAKSHMI T , BALUSAMY S R, DAVID S, KUMAR S R (Pharmacology Dep, Saveetha Univ, Chennai - 602 117, Tamil Nadu, Email: lakshmi@saveetha.com) : Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal extract and its antibacterial activity against food pathogens. Ann. Phytomed 2020, 9 (1), 195 - 8.

Silver nanoparticles play a significant role in the field of biology and medicine. It exerts high toxicity to various micro - organisms. The aim of the present study was to green synthesis silver nanoparticles using Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha) and evaluate its antibacterial activity against common food pathogens. W. somnifera belongs to Solanaceae (Nightshade) family. The biochemical constituent of ashwagandha plant is called withanolides. In the present study, the silver nanoparticles were synthesized in less than 30 min, using the leaf extracts of the plant, W. somnifera and its antimicrobial activity against food pathogens was evaluated. The synthesized nanoparticles exhibited antibacterial activity against E. coli and B. subtilis which was evaluated by agar - well diffusion method. The silver nanoparticles synthesized via green route were highly toxic to multidrug resistant bacteria like Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli and due to its great potential, it may be used in the biomedical application in near future.

5 illus, 25 ref

047476   SUDHA B, SUMATHI S, SWABNA V (Biotechnology Dep, St. Joseph's coll, Tiruchirappalli - 620 002, TN, Email: swabna.vivek@gmail.com) : Enzyme mediated synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles using keratinase enzyme producing micro - organisms. Ann. Phytomed 2020, 9 (1), 147 - 53.

Nanobiotechnology is a new multidisciplinary subject with the collaboration of biotechnology, nanotechnology, chemical methodology and physical processing that depends on the nano - size objects with their constitutional properties. Keratinolytic micro - organisms have an enormous role in poultry waste degeneration and its biomodification is used in the production of fertilizer and animal meal. The purpose of this study was to examine the competence of crude extracellular keratinase from bacterial strains for the production of nanoparticles and evaluation of its applications. Two keratinoltyic bacterial strains were isolated from the peacock feather and were identified as Serratia plymuthica and Serratia ficaria. Among these, Serratia ficaria showed high keratinolytic activity. Hence, it was used to synthesize nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles were synthesised and characterized by UV - visible spectroscopy, FTIR, particle size analyser and SEM. The results indicate that the crude keratinase enzyme produced by S. ficaria was found to be a good bioreductant.

9 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

047329   MESSAH A D V, PAWITAN J A (, Indonesia Medical Education and Research Institute (IMERI), Email: jeanneadiwip@gmail.com) : Next generation sequencing as rapid diagnosis of multidrug resistance Tuberculosis. Adv life Sci 2020, 8(1), 30-Jul.

Multi - drug - resistant tuberculosis (MDR - TB) is a threat to global health. In 2018, TB related death was estimated to be more than 1.5 million cases worldwide. Conventional diagnostic method, which requires a long time to get a result, causes delays in new cases discoveries that lead to delayed therapy. Further, delayed and inadequate therapy causes an increase in the level of resistance to anti - TB drugs that may lead to death. Therefore, diagnostic tools, which can detect quickly and accurately, are highly needed. Early and timely detection is crucial for globally effective TB control, but this is not popular in developing countries, especially in Asia. Therefore, the objective of this review is to provide current information on the use of NGS as a rapid diagnostic tool for MDR - TB, especially in Asian populations, and to highlight the various MDR genes.

2 tables, 47 ref

047328   LOC N H, VAN N H, QUANG H T (Biotechnology Dep, Hue Univ, Hue - Vietnam, Email: nhloc@hueuni.edu.vn) : Characterization of carboxymethyl cellulase produced by Trichoderma asperellum. Adv life Sci 2020, 8(1), 42 - 6.

The present study characterized extracellular carboxymethyl cellulase (CMCase), an enzyme catalyzes the hydrolysis of the cellulose, from Trichoderma asperellum PQ34 that was isolated from agricultural cultivation soil in Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam. CMCase was produced by culturing T. asperellum PQ34 on Czapek - Dox medium supplemented with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) at 28?C for 96 h at a shaking speed of 150 rpm. Enzyme activity was spectrophotometerically determined with CMC used as a substrate and the absorbance was measured at 540 nm. The molecular weight of CMCase was determined by zymogram based on sodium dodecyl sulfate - polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with 0.2 % CMC. CMCase achieved the highest activity after 4 days of culture with the optimal pH and temperature at 4 and 55?C. The enzyme maintains pH and thermal stability in the range of 4 - 5 and 10 - 40?C and the relative activity of both is more than 90 %. The presence of metal ions at 5 mM such as Ca2+, Al3+, or Co2+ increased the enzyme activity up to 133%, 124%, and 217%, respectively. CMCase was stable with 1 mM ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and 1 M urea, but inhibited by 5 % sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and 5 % Triton - X100. Zymographic analysis showed that CMCase from T. asperellum PQ34 consists of two enzymes with a molecular weight of about 31 and 66 kDa. CMCases from T. asperellum PQ34 exhibited characteristics of an acidic and thermostable enzyme. The interaction of Co2+ and CMCase resulted in a significant increase in enzyme activity, however they were strongly inhibited by 5 % SDS.

5 illus, 30 ref

047310   THAKARE R U (Microbiology Dep, Yashwantrao Chawhan Coll, Lakhandur, Bhandara) : Decolorization of dyes with immobilized laccase. Bioinfolet 2020, 17 (3 B), 504 - 6.

Present investigation was undertaken on production of laccase enzyme by Pleurotus pulmonarius, Bartalinia sp. (MM101), Rhizopus oryzae and Trametes hirsute and its immobilization. Decolorization of dyes with the help of immobilized laccase enzyme was also studied. Reactive Red M8B, Reactive Green 19 and effluent showed decolorization to the extent of 30 % in case of Reactive Red M8B and effluent, while 55 % in Reactive Green 19, after immobilization of the crude enzyme with 100 ml of 2 % Sodium Alginate. There was significant variation in the extent of decolorization of various dues; however, the difference due to the organisms, from which the enzyme was isolated, was statistically non - significant.

1 table, 18 ref

047305   SOMKUWAR N S, THAKRE M T, SOMKUWAR A (Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering Dep, , Nagpur, Maharashtra) : Synthesis of silver nanoparticles from plant extracts and their antimicrobial studies. Bioinfolet 2020, 17 (3 B), 492 - 4.

Present investigation deals with the studies on Jatropha pandurifolia (Leaves), Thunbergia grandiflora (Leaves and Flowers) and Bauhinia vahlii (Leaves). Phytochemical analysis of these plants showed presence of quinines, saponins, tannins, phenol, terpenoids, steroids and proteins. Secondary metabolites of these plants act as a reducing and stabilizing agents for silver ions, and hence Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized with the help of these plants using Silver nitrate as a precursor. Antibacterial activity of AgNPs and plant extracts against human pathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus was tested by well diffusion method. It was concluded that the application of AgNPs in pharmaceutical industry may be possible.

2 tables , 9 ref

047294   RAVI V, MUTHUSAMY S K, RAJU S, CHAKRABARTI S K (ICAR - Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Email: rajusar@gmail.com) : Analysis of molecular chaperones in differentiating storage root compared to non - tuber forming fibrous root of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas). Current Hort 2020, 8 (2), 51 - 56.

The differential expression pattern of molecular chaperones genes was studied in developing storage and fibrous root tissues of sweet potato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] using hybridization array. Out of 121 chaperone genes, 76 and 45 genes displayed more than 1.5 - fold induced and reduced expression, respectively during the initial storage root development as compared to the non - tuber forming fibrous root of sweet potato. The differentially expressed genes belong to different chaperone family included DNAJ, HSP90, HSP100/ClpATPase, HSP20, families etc. These differentially expressed chaperones are known to play an important role in hormone signalling, nucleosome remodelling, protein import, protein folding and proteasomal degradation. Thus, our study shows the functional role of molecular chaperones in development of storage - roots of sweet potato, providing further scope for chaperone mediated functional genomics studies and CRISPER - mediated breeding of storage root development in sweet potato.

1 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

047293   SUKLAL G A, ARUN D A, PANSANDE A, GANPATRAO W S, AKSHAY P, KHARPUDE P (Plant Biotechnology Dep, Coll of Agricultural Biotechnology, Vidyaprathishthan, Baramati, Email: aadaspute@gmail.com) : Effect of pomegranate (Punica granatum) peel extract on improving vase - life of cut carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus). Current Hort 2020, 8 (2), 47 - 50.

The experiment involved the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) peel extract to enhance the vase - life of cut carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) flowers. Biosynthesized pomegranate peel extract (PPE) - AgNPs were characterized by UV - visible spectroscopy, fourier - transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The intensity of peak at 378 nm in UV - vis spectra, attributed to the surface plasmon resonance of PPE - AgNPs, changes with reaction parameters. The SEM showed cubical shaped nanoparticles with an average particle size of 1 - 3 nm. The 15 mg/l PPE - AgNPs, treatment produced longest vase - life (11 days), while the control resulted in the shortest vase - life (7 days) of cut carnation flowers. Thus, these was positive role of PPE - AgNPs in increasing the vase - life of cut carnation flowers.

20 ref

001562   KAUR N, PRIYANKA, KAUR P, MONIKA (Biotechnology Dep, Mata Gujri Coll, Fatehgarh Sahib- 140 406, Email: monika@matagujricollege.org) : A Review on gestational diabetes mellitus: Present concern. Environ Conserv J 2021, 22(1&2), 97-109.

Diabetes mellitus during pregnancy known as GDM is a severe disorder that develops during pregnancy and its
prevalence is rapidly increasing all around the world. It arises due to two major metabolic defects; acute resistance of
insulin and dysfunctioning of beta cells. Numerous organs are additionally associated with the pathological process of
GDM. There are two types of factors that are associated with GDM that are modifiable and non-modifiable. GDM can
cause serious long-term complications to both fetus and mother due to maternal hereditary proneness linked with the
environment and fetoplacental aspects. The purpose of this manuscript is to audit GDM in detail and to provide a logical
information with refreshed exploration from various angles.

3 tables, 110 ref

001528   KUMAR M, NEGI R, SHARMA I, UPADHYAY S K, SINGH R (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be Univ), Mullana-Ambala- 133 207 , Haryana, Email: dr.rajsingh09@gmail.com) : Taxonomical and ethanobotanical studies of bambusa tulda roxb. in New Forest Dehradun. Bull Pure Appl Sci Sec B 2021, 40B (2), 70-5.

Bamboos are generally tall, erect and woody arborescent grasses. They are mainly distributed in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Bamboo grows three times faster than most other plants species. Bambusa tulda belongs to Poaceae family and the subfamily Bambusoideae. Bambusa tulda also known as Indian timber bamboo is an evergreen in nature. Its shoots contain high nutritional contentsand polyphenols which show medicinal properties to cure cardiovascular diseases and some types of cancer High demand for edible bamboo shoots of Bambusa tulda in many Asian ethnic groups has led to the need for developing intensive bamboo farming. The present studies based on survey done at New Forest, Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun (Uttarakhand) India, the minimum leaf size (L×B) of Bambusa tulda is 19 x 2and maximum leaf size 21 x 2.Clum height of B. tuldais (LxB)~ 15-20 and height of clum sheath(LxB) is 30 x 30.

2 illus, 30 ref

001526   KUMAR M, VERMA P K, SHARMA I, UPADHYAY S K, SINGH R (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be Univ), Mullana-Ambala- 133 207 , Haryana, Email: dr.rajsingh09@gmail.com) : Taxonomical and ethnobotanical studies of Ficus racemosa l. (dicotyledonae: moraceae) in socioeconomic perspective from new forest Dehradun. Bull Pure Appl Sci Sec B 2021, 40B (2), 56-62.

Ficus racemosa commonly known as Gular or Cluster Fig is belonging to family Moraceae of class Dicotyledonae. The study of Ficus racemosa showed that ethanomedicinal and medicinal value at Forest Research Institute (F.R.I.), Dehradun (Uttarakhand) India. The plant profoundly used in Ayurvedic medicine to cure various diseases such as ulcers, fever, leprosy, vomiting, dysentery, syphilis and inflammation of liver. F. racemosa roots, leaf, stem and fruits contain antibacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, antiinflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects. During dry winter season F. racemosa tree leaves are important fodder sourcein the Himalaya region of India, Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh. During exploration, minimum leaf size 10x12 cm. and maximum size 10x14cm were observed. The fig size of F. racemosa ranged between 2 mm to 2.5 mm.

2 illus, 49 ref

001522   KUMAR M, MUKHERJEE T K, SHARMA I, UPADHYAY S K, SINGH R (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be Univ), Haryana- 133 207, Email: dr.rajsingh09@gmail.com) : Role of bacteria in bioremediation of chromium from wastewaters: An overview. Bio-Sci Res Bull 2021, 37(2), 77-87.

Chromium exists in many forms according to their valence from 0 to VI. Most dominant and stable valences of Chromium are III and IV. Chromium is non degradable, harmful and toxic pollutants which negatively affect the environment. It transfers to one trophic level to another via the food chain and continues their cycle in the nature. Bacteria, fungi, algae and plants are the best constituents of biomass which reduces the toxicity of heavy metals in the ecosystem. Bioremediation is a natural process for waste treatment in an industrial area. This comprehensive review article describes the sources of chromium contamination in wastewater and soils, various treatment technologies for the removal of chromium from water/ wastewater and different bacteria dependent possible bioremediation of this metalin aneco-friendly and cost effective manner.

2 illus, 3 tables, 88 ref

001516   KHOIRI S, GIYANTO, DAMAYANTI T A (Agroecotechnology Dep, Trunojoyo Madura Univ, Bangkalan- 69162, Indonesia, Email: syaiful.khoiri@trunojoyo.ac.id) : Characterization of acyl-homoserine lactonase gene from Brevibacillus brevis strain B37. Indian J Biotech 2021, 20(1), 17-25.

Acyl-homoserine lactonase (EC 3.1.1.25) is a metallo-betalactamase, specifically hydrolyzed N-acyl-homoserine lactones (AHL) secreted by Gram-negative bacteria. AHL lactonase has been reported as a potential substitute for synthetic anti-bacterial, such as reduce the severity of plant diseases caused by Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris, and Pectobacterium catrotovorum. The exploration of lactonase producing organisms has been widely reported. AHL-lactonase is produced by Bacillaceae bacteria such as Bacillus thuringiensis, B. cereus, and B. antrachis. AHL-lactonase produced by Bacillaceae bacteria was translated from aiiA gene. In our previous study, aiiA novel gene was detected in Brevibacillus brevis B37 but has not been characterized. This study aimed to clone aiiA gene isolated from B. brevis B₃₇ by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with a pair of degenerated primers, to reveal homology comparison with others aiiA genes and amino acids, to express aiiA gene in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3), and also to assay quorum quencher ability. The aiiA gene was successfully isolated with 753 bp and 250 amino acids. The aiiA gene and the AiiA protein from B. brevis B37 had high similarity with aiiA and AiiA from B. thuringiensis group. The deduced amino acid sequence contained conserved sequence region ¹⁰³SHLHFDH¹⁰⁹ and ¹⁶⁶TPGHTPGH¹⁷³ as characteristic of the metallo betalactamase family. Additionally, the aiiAB₃₇ gene was expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3) and the expressed AiiA protein could attenuate the expression of violacein produce by Chromobacterium violaceum and decrease the expression of soft rot symptom caused by Dickeya dadantii.

6 illus, 1 table, 46 ref

001515   PALAN B, BHATTACHARYA A, CHAR B (Mahyco Private Limited, Jalna- 431 203, Maharashtra, Email: anjanabha.bhattacharya@mahyco.com) : TILLING in the era of precise genome editing. Indian J Biotech 2021, 20(1), 9-16.

To feed the ceaselessly growing population, it is challenging to increase the food productivity with limited land and water resources under changing climatic regimes. Conventional breeding has played vital role in increasing the crop productivity however takes long time and is labor intensive. Later, the transgenic technology came in to existence and played an important role for increased crop production. However, due to the regulatory hurdles in several countries including India, restricted extensive commercialization of genetically modified (GM) crops was possible. Therefore, more emphasis is now needed towards non-GM techniques for crop improvement. Now-a-days, genome editing (GE) techniques are also employed in crop improvement projects because of its simplicity, robustness and high efficiency. Parallel to GE, TILLING (Targeting Induced Local Lesions IN Genome) which is a type of random GE can be used as a non-transgenic approach, which involves developing a large mutant population in wide range of crops and screening the population for mutants. Once a mutant population is produced, it can be TILLed any number of times. Therefore, TILLING is a rapid, simple, low cost, effective, high-throughput and is independent of genotype and genome size. In this review, we focused on the potential and application of TILLING technique in crop improvement programs, in the era of precise genome editing.

1 illus, 1 table, 86 ref

001510   MITTAL C, HARSOLIA R S, SINGH M, YADAV J K (Biotechnology Dep, Central Univ of Rajasthan, Ajmer- 305 817, Rajasthan, Email: jaykantyadav@curaj.ac.in) : Disaggregation of amyloid-like protein aggregates isolated from human cataractous lens. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2021, 58(4), 359-65.

Crystallins, which represent the major lens protein, play a significant role in ensuring the lens transparency and maintenance of appropriate refractive index of the lens that help in accurate focusing of incident visible light precisely on retina to create clear image perception. Aggregation of lens proteins is known to form the basis of cataract formation. The present study is an attempt to examine the stability of the lens protein aggregates, isolated from human cataract eye lens, against an anionic detergent Sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), which is known to disrupt the hydrophobic interaction of protein aggregates. Data that emerged from Congo red (CR), thioflavin T (ThT) and 8-anilino-1-naphthalene sulfonic acid (ANS) binding assay indicated their amyloidogenic nature. A significant reduction in the bathochromic shift of CR λmax and ThT fluorescence emission intensity were observed after treatment of the aggregated proteins with SDS. In the presence of SDS, a significant change in the number and size of the protein aggregates were observed during their morphological analyses under transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Based on the above data it became evident that the hydrophobic interaction plays a crucial role in formation and stabilizing the protein aggregates during cataract formation.

6 illus, 26 ref

001508   BHARATHI V, MANGLUNIA R R, SHARMA N, NIRWAL S, PATEL B K (Biotechnology Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Telangana-502 285, Hyderabad) : Pharmaceutical acetylation can modulate the amyloidogenicity of human serum albumin. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2021, 58(3), 344-51.

Human serum albumin (HSA) is an abundant carrier protein present in the blood plasma manifesting affinity for drugs and ligands. The bindings of several drugs can cause changes in the structural conformation of HSA that may affect its function. HSA is also known to in vitro form amyloid-like aggregates with fibrillar morphology as observed under TEM. Earlier, we showed that the HSA amyloid-like aggregates display self-seeding potential and detergent stability and the dimers of HSA, which are preferable for clinical applications due to their longer circulatory life, can also form amyloid-like aggregates. As aspirin, a commonly prescribed drug, was previously documented to acetylate HSA at one of its lysine residues, here, we examined if acetylation has any effect on the in vitro amyloid-like aggregation of HSA. We show that HSA acetylated in vitro using acetylsalicylic acid manifests relatively reduced levels of amyloid-specific properties such as turbidity, Thioflavin-T-positive aggregation, -sheet content and stability against an ionic detergent. Also, TEM imaging shows that the acetylated HSA forms relatively less aggregates and with smaller sizes whereas, the aggregates of HSA are more abundant and larger in sizes with fibrillar morphology which further supports that acetylation can attenuate the amyloid-like aggregation of HSA.

dvd5

001502   SUR A, NAYAK K K, PARKHEY P, SAHU R (Amity Univ, Raipur-493 225, Chhattisgarh) : Isolation and identification of lignin degrading bacteria residing in mandeepkhol cave of Chhattisgarh: A RAPD Study. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2021, 58(2), 148-55.

Lignin is biopolymer synthesized by plants and it consists upto 30% dry mass weight of any woody tissue. It is also known as second most abundant source of carbon after cellulose but still has a major problem, i.e. very tough to degrade. Thus, in present work authors were studied about the degradation of lignin by bacteria. The paper reports isolation, screening and identification of lignin degrading bacteria from collected samples. The bacterial strains were isolated from a cave that is located in the Chhattisgarh state of India in the mountain range of Salewara which have a temperature range between 26-28C. A total of 32 bacterial isolates were studied and their RAPD analysis was performed and it was observed that Brevundimonas diminuta, Bacillus thuringiensis and Bacillus cereus were isolated in lignin- rich media which showed evidence of high lignin degradation.

5 illus, 7 tables, 34 ref

001501   CHAUHAN S, UPADHYAY L S B (Biotechnology Dep, National Institute of Technology Raipur, Raipur-492 010, Chhattisgarh) : The quest for reusability: The facile and stable immobilization of papain on cysteine functionalized iron oxide nanoparticles activated glass surface. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2021, 58(2), 141-7.

The study displays the immobilization of papain on cysteine functionalized iron oxide nanoparticle coated glass beads. Glass beads were treated with (3-mercaptopropyl) trimethoxysilane and iron oxide nanoparticles capped with cysteine, to create a layer of cysteine on the surface of glass bead. This functionalized glass bead surface was further used to immobilize papain through glutaraldehyde treatment. The average size of cysteine capped iron oxide nanoparticles were found to be 50 nm. The binding of cysteine through the iron oxide nanoparticles was validated by Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy. The activity of enzyme was found to be stable at variable temperature and pH conditions. The covalently immobilized enzyme on the glass bead sustained high enzyme activity and could be reused for 5 times without losing its activity. The immobilized papain retained 81% of its initial activity after 5 consecutive cycle. The storage stability analysis of the immobilized system revealed that it is stable for 6 months without loss in its activity. An average of 1.8 mg papain was successfully immobilized per gram of glass beads. In this case cysteine emerges as a new and effective medium for immobilizing biomolecules as it provides high efficiency towards immobilization.

7 illus, 21 ref

001499   TOPPO A L, YADAV M, DHAGAT S, AYOTHIRAMAN S, ESWARI J S (Biotechnology Dep, National Institute of Technology Raipur, Raipur-492 010, Chhattisgarh) : Molecular docking and ADMET analysis of synthetic statins for HMG-CoA reductase inhibition activity. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2021, 58(2), 127-34.

Hypercholesterolemia is a serious condition that may lead to coronary heart disease, heart attack and stroke raising the rate of morbidity and mortality in hypocholesterolemic patients. Statins are one of the largest selling drugs for hypercholesterolemia. They serve as potential competitive inhibitors of HMG-CoA reductase that catalyzes the rate-limiting step of cholesterol biosynthesis cascade. They can be broadly classified into fermentation-derived, semisynthetic and synthetic statins. For the current study, synthetic statins like fluvastatin, cerivastatin, rosuvastatin were subjected to in silico analysis for their competitive binding with HMG-CoA reductase through molecular docking. The molecular interaction between HMG-CoA reductase with statins and their ADMET properties were studied using Maestro suite of Schrödinger software. The results of molecular docking depicted that fluvastatin had the highest docking score while that of rosuvastatin was the least. The prediction of pharmacokinetics of drug performed by QikProp also pointed the efficacy of fluvastatin as a potent inhibitor for HMG-CoA reductase enabling it to be an effective drug to treat hypercholesterolemia among the three synthetic statins.

4 illus, 5 tables, 20 ref

001494   SINGH C, RAJKUMAR B K, KUMAR V (Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh- 362 001, Gujarat) : Water-deficit stress-Induced physio-biochemical changes in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivars. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2021, 58(1), 83-90.

Water stress is a serious global issue regarding growth of agricultural crops and sustainable food production for the large population. In the present situation due to low rainfall and unavailability of advanced irrigation methods, water deficit stress is the most limiting factor decreasing crop production in many regions of the world. In this study, to assess the drought tolerance mechanism in cotton cultivars was monitored by drought induced physio-biochemical changes. To assess the tolerance in cotton cultivars, a field experiment was conducted in split plot design in which the main plot consists of irrigated and complete rainfed conditions as a stress and cotton cultivars arranged in the main plot as a subplot. The overall comparative analysis revealed that hybrid was superior over their parents under well-watered as well as in water deficit conditions in terms of chlorophyll content, wax content, accumulation of compatible solutes, photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate and yield parameters. The findings from the results indicate that under water deficit conditions plants having a different adaptive mechanisms for coping with the stress situation. So, some of the adaptive mechanisms such as accumulation of sugars, polyphenols, amino acids, non-enzymatic antioxidants, and wax deposition helps to maintain osmotic balance, to protect cellular macromolecules, to detoxify the cells, and to scavenge free radicals under water deficit condition.

2 illus, 3 tables, 40 ref

001493   SINGH C, RAJKUMAR B K, KUMAR V (Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh- 362 001, Gujarat) : Induced physio-biochemical changes in cotton-water-deficit stress (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivars. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2021, 58(1), 83-90.

Water stress is a serious global issue regarding growth of agricultural crops and sustainable food production for the large population. In the present situation due to low rainfall and unavailability of advanced irrigation methods, water deficit stress is the most limiting factor decreasing crop production in many regions of the world. In this study, to assess the drought tolerance mechanism in cotton cultivars was monitored by drought-induced physio-biochemical changes. To assess the tolerance in cotton cultivars, a field experiment was conducted in split-plot design in which the main plot consists of irrigated and complete rainfed conditions as a stress and cotton cultivars arranged in the main plot as a subplot. The overall comparative analysis revealed that hybrid was superior over their parents under well-watered as well as in water deficit conditions in terms of chlorophyll content, wax content, accumulation of compatible solutes, photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate and yield parameters. The findings from the results indicate that under water deficit conditions plants having a different adaptive mechanisms for coping with the stress situation. So, some of the adaptive mechanisms such as accumulation of sugars, polyphenols, amino acids, non-enzymatic antioxidants, and wax deposition helps to maintain osmotic balance, to protect cellular macromolecules, to detoxify the cells, and to scavenge free radicals under water deficit condition.

2 illus, 3 tables, 40 ref

001490   TIPPABATHANI J, NELLORE J (Biotechnology Dep, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai- 600 119, Tamil Nadu) : Temporal changes in key developmental transcription factors in dopamine neurons during mpp⁺ induced injury and recovery in zebrafish brain. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2021, 58(1), 45-55.

Poor regeneration of functional dopaminergic neurons (DA) is one of the most common healthcare challenges for Parkinson’s Disease (PD) patients. In contrast to mammals, zebrafish has an amazing potential to repair their dopaminergic neurons (DA) after injury. However, the molecular mechanisms that regulate these reparative events remain to be determined. To address this, we compared the temporal changes in key transcription factors (TFs), which regulate the developmental trajectories of DA neurons during injury and regeneration in zebrafish. MPP+ was exposed to zebrafish embryos between 18 Hpf and 96 Hpf to create a model of DA injury and regeneration after injury (1day, 2days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, 7 days and 87 days post DA injury). During time series of MPP+ exposure, we found temporal alterations in the expression patterns of TFs; Nurr1, Foxa1, Lmx1a/b and En1/2 using WISH and RT-PCR. This turning point in expression dynamics coincided with a DA phenotypic turning point, as shown by 50% decline in TH+ /DAT+ neurons and locomotor activity in the days following the MPP+ exposure. Using this model, we demonstrate for the first time that zebrafish are capable of regenerating a functional DA phenotype after 50% DA ablation. Following acute DA injury, mRNA levels of most TFs started to increase between 3-8 days after injury which was significantly elevated to normal levels in adult zebrafish brain i.e. at 87th day after injury. Remarkably, the changes in mRNA expression of TFs temporally correlate with corresponding increase in TH/DAT expression and functional recovery. Taken together, this study showed a highly relevant role of TFs for dopamine producing neurons during regeneration of DA neurons following ablation with restoration of normal behavior. This study implies that TFs as potential therapeutic targets for enhancing regeneration of DA neurons in mammalsobserved over.

4 illus, 1 table, 45 ref

000888   Upadhyay S K, Babita (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be Univ), Haryana, Email: upadhyay.k.sushil@gmail.com) : Biodiversity of parasitic trematode Allocreadium sp. Looss, 1894 (Digenea: Allocreadiidae): A review. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect A 2021, 40A(1), 176-91.

Although there are many heartening studies have been done on the parasitic helminthes of vertebrates but there are serious deficiencies in checklist of trematodes Allocreadium Looss (Digenea: Allocreadiidae). The present study based on the literature survey to tabulate biodiversity of Allocreadium Looss reported from various hosts in the India and worldwide so far. Allocreadium sp. is one of the most important parasitic digenean trematode with wide geographic distribution range across the world. The findings reflected that these trematodes infecting very wide range of hosts from invertebrates to vertebrates. About 104 Allocreadium sp. have been summarized in present review recovered from various hosts including 44 Indian species as well. As the aquaculture playing a key role in the food security and economy of country that is deteriorating due to heavy parasitic load in fishes. Therefore, awareness, knowledge of biodiversity and causes of parasites should be in the society at grassroots level. The authors wish to suppose that current review might be helpful in the strategic management of aquaculture for health, economy and sustainable development.

2 tables, 169 ref

001188   NANDAL V, SOLANKI M (Biotechnology Dep, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad- 121 004, Haryana) : Status of zinc in the soils of Faridabad District, India. Eco Env Cons 2021, 27-S2, 286-9.

Soil is the principal component of the ecosystem and contains minerals which are key required nutrients. Zinc (Zn) is one of such nutrients naturally present in soils at a concentration of 0.6-1.2ppm. However, various human activities have resulted in concentration variation. It has been speculated that these varied concentration leads to insufficient zinc in crops and estimated one third of the population is at risk of zinc deficiency, thus effectuating dire health implications such as impeding immune system and brain development. Zinc deficiency among the human population is prominently noticed among young kids. It affects them more as zinc deficiency impairs brain development and thus it can determine their early growth. Moreover one of the main dietary options is dairy products thus its necessary that fodder crops must contain enough zinc. Testing of soil for characterizing Zn availability provides information about concentration and soil conditions. The concentration of zinc in the soil is tested via Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). This technique is employed to test for the concentration of heavy metals present at low concentration. After the testing, the results indicate varied concentration and significant statistical difference among samples. The concentration of some soil samples was below critical limit, which points that those specific spots require zinc supplements to improve the deficit noted.

1 illus, 23 ref

000845   SINGH R (Biotechnology Dep, Durban Univ, South Africa, Email: rshnsingh@webmail.co.za) : A news report on the COVID-19 pandemic. Bio-Sci Res Bull 2021, 37(1), 35-8.

A pandemic such as COVID-19, like any other, is characterised beyond demographic range because it is a worldwide phenomenon. This means that people of any creed are vulnerable to coronavirus, and that each of us needs to take our roles seriously in the fight against the virus. More to this, this means that the management of the virus has complexity, as shown by recent scientific advances with the discovery of the new variant. This implies that with the testing of new vaccines, with categories approved by the World Health Organisation, one needs to be mindful of their interaction with susceptible patients, and that in order to succumb to this pandemic, we must be aware of hygienic practices, and their importance henceforth. This paper is a news report on the 2019 coronavirus pandemic.

10 ref

000844   Anjali, Singh R, Sharma I, Sharma P, Gupta M, Singhal P, Goyal S, Yadav M, Upadhyay S K (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar Univ, Haryana, Email: sushil.upadhyay@mmumullana.org) : Nanoparticles and nanotechnology: From source, properties, types, synthesis to multifaceted functional potential in agriculture. Bio-Sci Res Bull 2021, 37(1), 23-34.

Nanoparticles are a solid colloidal particle which ranges in size from 10 to 1000nm. The nanoparticles differs from its own bulk form in its physical properties and more over toxic than its bulk form. Due to these properties, nanoparticles can be used for a wide range of applications in various fields of science. Nanoparticles may be produced naturally, incidentally or can be engineered. These have profound multifaceted agricultural applications such as bioimaging, biosensors, nano-heribicides, nano-pesticides, nano-fertilizers, etc. This study is focused on to review the properties, types, synthesis and multifaceted potential of different nanoparticles in agriculture fields for effective management, improved productivity and sustainable development.

4 illus, 65 ref

000843   Kumar M, Singh R, Sharma I (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar Univ, Haryana, Email: endusharma@gmail.com) : Integrated management for post-harvest diseases of fruits and vegetables. Bio-Sci Res Bull 2021, 37(1), 17-22.

The post-harvest diseases known as the diseases which developed during harvesting of part of the plants like fruits, vegetables and seeds. Due to high moisture content and nutrient in harvested fruits and vegetables they are vulnerable to attack by pathogenic organism. Injuries of fruits and vegetables maybe caused during harvesting, packing, transposition, storage and after consumer purchase. They help in pathogen to enter the host and cause damage. The plant parts may get infected in field, but expression of symptom may take place later, at any stage before final consumption. The post-harvest disease that causes spoilage of both durable and perishable commodities is wide spread. The capability of a microorganism to initiate post-harvest diseases, as well as its final outcome, depend on number of factors that can conveniently be associated with, microorganism, host and the environment. This study discussed the physical, chemical and biological integrated methods for the control of post-harvest diseases.

1 table, 24 ref

000841   Singh R, Yadav M, Kumar V, Sharma I, Singh M, Upadhyay S K (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar Univ, Haryana, Email: sushil.upadhyay@mmumullana.org) : Effect of molasses on the growth of okra, Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) moench (Dicotyledonae: Malvaceae). Bio-Sci Res Bull 2021, 37(1), 4-11.

Vegetables are important for health due to their contents as minerals, antioxidant, vitamins, phytochemicals and dietary fiber. All these substances are related to lower the risks for development of health problems. The use of chemical fertilizers affected both soil health and crop productivity in the long term. An experiment was conducted for the assessment of molasses effect on okra (ladies’ finger) under natural environment at the Botanical Garden of Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala (Haryana). During investigation all the attributes for growth stages of plants as per molasses treatment and control groups were observed. The treatment of molasses concentrations viz. 5%, 3% and 1% to response of plant growth was recorded after standard post sowing interval and compared with the control group as well. The present work revealed the better plant growth and yields of okra in soil blended with molasses as organic fertilizer than the field without molasses. Therefore, authors wish to recommend the molasses as profound organic fertilizer for eco-friendly farming and sustainable agriculture.

2 illus, 1 table, 57 ref

003393   SINGH R (Biotechnology and Food Technology Dep, Durban Univ of Technology, South Africa & The Republic of South Africa, Email: rshnsingh@webmail.co.za, rshnsingh1@yahoo.com) : A news report on the COVID-19 Pandemic. Bio Sci Res Bull 2021, Vol 37 (1), 35 - 8.

A pandemic such as COVID-19, like any other, is characterised beyond demographic range because it is a worldwide phenomenon. This means that people of any creed are vulnerable to coronavirus, and that each of us needs to take our roles seriously in the fight against the virus. More to this, this means that the management of the virus has complexity, as shown by recent scientific advances with the discovery of the new variant. This implies that with the testing of new vaccines, with categories approved by the World Health Organisation, one needs to be mindful of their interaction with susceptible patients, and that in order to succumb to this pandemic, we must be aware of hygienic practices, and their importance henceforth. This paper is a news report on the 2019 coronavirus pandemic.

10 ref

003392   ANJALI, SINGH R, SHARMA I, SHARMA P, GUPTA M, SINGHAL P, GOYAL S, YADAV M, UPADHYAY S K (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar, Haryana - 133 207, Email: sushil.upadhyay@mmumullana.org) : Nanoparticles and nanotechnology: From source, properties, types, synthesis to multifaceted functional potential in agriculture. Bio Sci Res Bull 2021, Vol 37 (1), 23 - 34.

Nanoparticles are a solid colloidal particle which ranges in size from 10 to 1000nm. The nanoparticles differs from its own bulk form in its physical properties and more over toxic than its bulk form. Due to these properties, nanoparticles can be used for a wide range of applications in various fields of science. Nanoparticles may be produced naturally, incidentally or can be engineered. These have profound multifaceted agricultural applications such as bioimaging, biosensors, nano-heribicides, nano-pesticides, nanofertilizers, etc. This study is focused on to review the properties, types, synthesis and multifaceted potential of different nanoparticles in agriculture fields for effective management, improved productivity and sustainable development.

4 illus, 66 ref

003391   KUMAR M, SINGH R, SHARMA I (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar Deemed to be Univ, Haryana - 133 207) : Integrated management for post-harvest diseases of fruits and vegetables. Bio Sci Res Bull 2021, Vol 37 (1), 17 - 22.

The post-harvest diseases known as the diseases which developed during harvesting of part of the plants like fruits, vegetables and seeds. Due to high moisture content and nutrient in harvested fruits and vegetables they are vulnerable to attack by pathogenic organism. Injuries of fruits and vegetables maybe caused during harvesting, packing, transposition, storage and after consumer purchase. They help in pathogen to enter the host and cause damage. The plant parts may get infected in field, but expression of symptom may take place later, at any stage before final consumption. The post-harvest disease that causes spoilage of both durable and perishable commodities is wide spread. The capability of a microorganism to initiate post-harvest diseases, as well as its final outcome, depend on number of factors that can conveniently be associated with, microorganism, host and the environment. This study discussed the physical, chemical and biological integrated methods for the control of post-harvest diseases.

1 table, 24 ref

003389   SINGH R, YADAV M, KUMAR V, SHARMA I, SINGH M, UPADHYAY S K (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar, Haryana - 133 207, Email: sushil.upadhyay@mmumullana.org ) : Effect of Molasses on the Growth of Okra, Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench (Dicotyledonae: Malvaceae). Bio Sci Res Bull 2021, Vol 37 (1), 4 - 11.

Vegetables are important for health due to their contents as minerals, antioxidant, vitamins, phytochemicals and dietary fiber. All these substances are related to lower the risks for development of health problems. The use of chemical fertilizers affected both soil health and crop productivity in the long term. An experiment was conducted for the assessment of molasses effect on okra (ladies’ finger) under natural environment at the Botanical Garden of Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), MullanaAmbala (Haryana). During investigation all the attributes for growth stages of plants as per molasses treatment and control groups were observed. The treatment of molasses concentrations viz. 5 %, 3 % and 1 % to response of plant growth was recorded after standard post sowing interval and compared with the control group as well. The present work revealed the better plant growth and yields of okra in soil blended with molasses as organic fertilizer than the field without molasses. Therefore, authors wish to recommend the molasses as profound organic fertilizer for eco-friendly farming and sustainable agriculture.

2 illus, 1 table, 57 ref

003373   SHARMA B, SHARMA S C, ALAM A (Bioscience and Biotechnology Dep, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali - 304 022, Rajasthan) : Phytochemical screening and GC-MS analysis of Tamarindus indica L. (Angiosperms: Fabaceae). Annals Phytomed 2021, Vol 10 (1), 215 - 21.

Plants have been utilized as preventive and curative medicines as age-old practice. The ethnobotanical data is full of such plants that have medicinal properties and on this basis, the contemporary researchers are now conducting various tests to validate their efficacy. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 21,000 plants have been mentioned with therapeutic values worldwide. Among those, Tamarindus indica L. (family Fabaceae) is a multipurpose tropical and subtropical tree that is primarily used for its edible fruits and leaves. But now, it is emerging an important plants due to its medicinal uses among many tribes. The present study has been conducted to determine the phytochemical composition and GC-MS analysis of this plant. The separate extracts of T. indica leaves and tender shoots were prepared in different solvents, viz., methanol, chloroform, and petroleum ether and analyzed comparatively. Since, the aqueous and ethanolic extracts were already studied earlier, therefore not repeated in this study. Finally, the best results were obtained in the methanol extract of the plant parts taken. The outcome of phytochemical screening indicated the presence of phytochemicals like alkaloids, amino acids, phenols, and flavonoids. The methanol extract of leaves was found superior over the extracts prepared with chloroform and petroleum ether.

4 illus, 4 tables, 22 ref

003362   SINGH D, SINGH S (Biotechnology Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara - 144 411, Punjab) : Phytomedicine: Alternative safe vehicles on the pathway of diabetes mellitus. Annals Phytomed 2021, Vol 10 (1), 114 - 22.

Diabetes mellitus, a metabolic disorder, is one of the most serious threat to public health worldwide which has no permanent remedy. The treatment simply relies on some antidiabetic drugs whose longterm treatment can lead to several side effects such as hypoglycemia, weight gain, hypersensitivity. Therefore, to reduce the side effects and to improve the quality of life for diabetic patients, several evidences have showed that some natural products and herbal medicines possess antidiabetic properties with fewer side effects which may work as potential drug to treat diabetes diseases. Hence, this paper covers some medicinal plants and their constituents which have shown its potential and beneficial effect for the treat the effect of diabetes mellitus and regulation of blood glucose along with their other health benefits.

15 illus, 1 table, 82 ref

003338   OYEYEMI S D, AYENI M J, ADESINA A J (Plant Science and Biotechnology Dep, Ekiti State Univ, Ado- Ekiti, Nigeria) : Study on the nutritional, mineral and antinutrient composition of some underutilised species of fabaceae in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 233 - 43.

Nutritional profile, mineral content as well as mineral ratio, mineral safety index and anti-nutrient content of locally grown fabaceae species (Cajanus cajan, Sphenosytlis sternocarpa, Phaseolus lunatus and Vigna unguiculata) were investigated. The bioavailability of the minerals was predicted using antinutrient-mineral molar ratios. The proximate analyses of the beans showed that the moisture content, crude protein, crude fat, ash, crude fiber and carbohydrate ranged as followed: 8.76-9.62%, 14.85-17.55%, 2.48-3.28%, 2.48-2.71%, 2.87-3.59% and 64.76-67.21% respectively. The total energy from carbohydrate, fat and protein was high and close at 1499-1515kJ/100g and low CV% of 0.47-0.48 being mostly contributed by carbohydrate (73.12- 75.42%) and followed by protein (16.66-19.82%). Utilization of 60% of energy due to protein was low at 9.99- 11.89 at CV% 7.23. The mineral levels (g/100mg) were high in K (33.2-44.4) and P (92.0-128) moderate in Ca (14.5-19.4), Mg (8.14-14.5) and Fe (6.00-13.97) but low in Zn and Cu and very low in Mn, Pb, Cd and Ni. The mineral CV% ranged from low to high (7.44-47181) with no significant difference at P=0.05. The result of the mineral ratio revealed that the calculated mineral ratios for Na/K, K/Na, Ca/P, Ca/Mg, Ca/K, Zn/Cu and [K/ (Ca+Mg)] were good when compared with the standard. All calculated mineral safety index were lower than the tabulated values indicated no mineral overload to the consumer. The low anti-nutrient concentrations (mg/100g) of phytate (1.51-2.61) and hydrocyanide (7.49-12.52) could make them ranked among the bean species safe for human consumption while the antinutrient-mineral molar ratios depicted phytate to mineral ratios of all the beans falls below the critical values, no significant difference at P=0.05 among the ratios. This indicated that the bioavailability of Ca, Fe and Zn is not affected by their phytic acid contents. The bean seeds might prove to be a good source of carbohydrate, crude protein, minerals and gross energy values. The anti-nutrient, mineral safety and phytate to mineral ratio were found to be within the acceptable level suggested that the foods are suitable for human and animal consumption.

5 tables, 64 ref

003333   GUPTA A, JEYAKUMAR E, LAWRENCE R (Industrial Microbiology Dep, Sam Higginbottom Univ of Agriculture, Prayagraj - 211 007, Uttar Pradesh) : Pyrogallol: A competent therapeutic agent of the future. Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 213 - 7.

Pyrogallol is a naturally occurring phenolic compound found to be present in Emblica officinalis (Amla or Indian Gosseberry), Jatropha neopauciflora, tea, coffee, avocado, apricot, etc. Pyrogallol falls in the category of tannins and is also known as 1,2,3-trihydroxy benzene and 1,2,3-benzenetriol. Intake of these kinds of compounds prevents oxidative damage to cell membrane lipid, protein, and nucleic acid due to the strong quenching property of free radicals and may protect against cardiovascular, immune/autoimmune diseases, and brain dysfunctions viz. Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s diseases. Also, the puzzle of microbial resistance, which arises due to the uncontrollable use of antimicrobial drugs, can be solved by using these kinds of natural products in the treatment of various maladies. The popularity of these natural products to be used as novel antimicrobial agents is also because of no side effects shown by these compounds. Usually, phenolic compounds are known for their various biological properties such as antibacterial, antioxidant, antifungal, antiviral, antiseptic, anti-dermatitic, cardio protective, anti-mutagenic, pesticide, etc. The present study aims to focus on antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, and antioxidant properties of pyrogallol as the prolific contributions have been made in the past by various researchers on these properties of pyrogallol. Pyrogallol can be used as a competent therapeutic agent in the future. However, the mechanism of antimicrobial action of pyrogallol is still unknown and needed to be studied. This review article is an endeavor to harmonize the knowledge about the utility of pyrogallol in the extirpation of various ailments.

38 ref

003328   BOOMIRAJ K, SUDHAGAR R J, ARUNASALASWAMY V, POORNIMA R, SENTHILRAJA K, JAGADEESWARAN R (TNAU, Coimbatore, T.N) : Estimation of carbon sequestration potential of trees under tamil nadu biodiversity conservation and greening project (TBGP) - A viable option for climate change mitigation in Tamil Nadu, India. Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 186 - 91.

Tamil Nadu Biodiversity Conservation and Greening Project (TBGP) was launched in Tamil Nadu to create awareness and increase the green cover area through establishment of plantations in farmers’ lands. Carbon sequestration potential was assessed in Pollachi forest range, where TBGP was implemented from 2011to 2015, with tree crops such as Bamboo, Bixa orellana and Khaya senegalensis. Green weight, dry weight and tree carbon content were estimated and subsequently tree carbon sequestration was calculated.The study revealed that different villages recorded variation in growth rate of tree species. Potential dry weight of four year old bamboo ranged from 25 to 145 kg tree-1and five year old bamboo ranged from 149 to 256 kg tree-1. Five year old Bamboo, Bixa orellana and Khaya senegalensis recorded carbon sequestration potential ranging from 23.9 to 13.2 tonsacre-1, 71 and 334 kgacre-1 respectively. Considering the huge extent of cultural waste lands, current fallow lands and other fallow lands in Tamil Nadu, which is estimated to be 2.645 million ha, bamboo cultivation in these lands under TBGP has the potential to sequester 31.7 to 121.2 million tonnes of carbon, while Bixa orellana could sequester 0.47 million tonnes of carbon and Khaya senegalensis has the potential to sequester 2.21 million tonnes of carbon in five years apart from other ecosystem benefits. Large scale establishment of tree plantations of the above mentioned tree species could provide to be a viable option for mitigation of climate change through implementation of TBGP in the state of Tamil Nadu

1 illus, 4 tables, 15 ref

003327   SABITHADEVI R , SIVASUBRAMANIAN K, MAHESHWARI M, KARTHIKEYAN S (TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Assessing the quality characteristics of areca nut (Areca catechu L.) leaf sheath waste to find its suitability for bio-composting. Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 182 - 5.

Arecanut palm leaf sheath is serving as a potential eco-friendly alternative for plastic and paper products such as plates, food container and spoon, etc. Increased usage of these areca products is resulting in high amount of wastes in urban centres of India. Biodegradation of these wastes is slow due to its high lignin (17.12 per cent) and cellulose (64.48 per cent) content. Hence an attempt was made to characterize these wastes to find its amenability for bio-composting. The nutritive and non-nutritive characteristics were analyzed using ICP-MS and standard methodologies. It was observed that this waste contains all macro and micro nutrients required for plant growth with a high carbon to nitrogen ratio. Blending with suitable nitrogen rich wastes such as cow dung and poultry manures with effective microbial cultures will enhance its biodegradation.

3 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

003313   JAYALAKSHMI J, SADIQA A M, SIVAKUMAR V (Biochemistry Dep, Adhiparasaksthi Coll of Arts and Science, Kalavai - 632 506) : Microbial enzymatic production of fructooligosaccharides from sucrose in agricultural harvest. Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (1), 84 - 8.

Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) derived from sucrose by microbial enzyme Fructosyltransferase (FTase) especially from fungal sources has received particular attention due to its beneficial effects such as prebiotics, low calorific, non-cariogenic, bifidogenic and its mass production. This work is aimed to maximize the fructooligosaccharide production from cheap agricultural harvests instead of using expensive commercial sucrose. Cheaper alternatives carbon (sucrose) sources selected for this study were Banana, Banana peel, Papaya and Cane molasses. Fungal strain Penicillium citrinum is having higher Fructosyltransferase activity was collected from sugarcane mill. This fungus was fermented in four fermentation medium containing four selected carbon sources. The activity of FTase was estimated by DNS method at regular intervals. It was found that Banana peel and Cane molasess shows significantly (p<0.002) higher activity when compared to control. For the industrial production, Banana peel and cane molasses would be a promising cheaper alternative carbon sources for FOS production.

2 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

003311   MEIGNANALAKSHMI S, HARITHA B, RATHNAPRABHA S, PARTHIBAN M (Animal Biotechnology Dep, Madras Veterinary Coll, Chennai, T.N) : Optimization of salt bridge and electrode size for enhanced bioelectricity production in microbial fuel cell developed using slaughter house waste rumen fluid. Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (1), 72 - 6.

In the present study, production of bioelectricity in microbial fuel cell developed with slaughter house waste rumen fluid was enhanced by optimization of agarose salt bridge and electrode size. Agarose salt bridge was optimized by different percentage of agarose from 1 %-3 % with different sodium chloride concentration from 1 %-3 %. Graphite plates of different sizes (LXBXH) 4x4x0.3cm, 5x5x0.3cm, 6x6x.0.3cm, 7x7x0.3cm and 6x6x3cm were used. 1% agarose salt bridge with 3 % sodium chloride produced maximum voltage and current, 560mV and 2.60mA respectively. Graphite plate of 6x6x3cm gave the maximum voltage of 620mV and 4.8mA after 7 days, when compared to other sizes of graphite plates.

6 illus, 4 tables, 12 ref

003298   KARLI G, PALADI S K (Biotechnology Dep, Govt. Degree Coll, Hyderabad) : Immunoinformatics IV: Computational prediction of immuno-dominant variable surface antigen-like protein as a diagnostic marker for bovine trichomonosis. Bioinfolet 2021, 18 (2), 287 - 90.

Bovine Trichomonosis is a venereal disease of cattle caused by Trichomonas foetus. Even though it is most common disease, a kit for identification of Trichomonas foetus infection is not yet available. During present investigation, transcriptomics and proteomics based data of the pathogen was evaluated. Simultaneously, similar data on Trichomonas vaginalis, a closely related human parasite, were also analyzed. Immuno-Dominant Variable Surface Antigen-Like Protein was identified as potential virulent protein. TMMHM analysis revealed it to be as transmemebrane protein. It was further analyzed using Epitope Prediction and Analysis Tools, in Immune Epitope Database Analysis Resource. It was pointed out that above protein contained several large continuous epitopes, which can be exploited for developing suitable diagnostics.

3 illus, 12 ref

003297   NITHYA K M, GEETHANJALI K (Biotechnology Dep, Govt. Degree Coll, Hyderabad) : Immunoinformatics III: Computational prediction of chlamydia polymorphic membrane protein - Like protein as a diagnostic marker for bovine trichomonosis. Bioinfolet 2021, 18 (2), 283 - 6.

Bovine Trichomonosis is a venereal disease of cattle caused by Trichomonas foetus. Even though it is most common disease, a kit for identification of Trichomonas foetus infection is not yet available. During present investigation, transcriptomics and proteomics based data of the pathogen was evaluated. Simultaneously, Similar data on Trichomonas vaginalis, a closely related human parasite, were also analyzed. Clamydia polymorphic membrane protein -like protein was identified as potential virulent protein. TMMHM analysis revealed it to be as transmemebrane protein. It was further analyzed using Epitope Prediction and Analysis Tools, in Immune Epitope Database Analysis Resource. It was pointed out that above protein contained several large continuous epitopes, which can be exploited for developing suitable diagnostics.

3 illus, 12 ref