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CONTENTS YEAR 2010
Co-evolving with the Present Biosphere
John Cairns, Jr. Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, USA
Abstract : Lovelock (2009) hopes that a few million Homo sapiens will survive the climate changes and will find some “ecological lifeboats” to preserve civilization: “As part of Gaia, our presence begins to make the planet sentient. We should be proud that we could be part of this huge step, one that may help Gaia survive as the sun continues its slow but ineluctable increase of heat output, making the solar system an increasingly hostile future environment.” Lovelock (2009) is clearly aware of the difficulties of developing a mutualistic relationship between humans and Gaia: “There is no set of rules or prescription for living with Gaia, there are only consequences.” Gaia is a unifying concept in a sea of highly specialized information. Specialized information is essential, but is most effectively integrated within a particular context. Key words : Gaia, Biosphere, Co-evolving, Climate engineering, Life support system, “Hail Mary” technologies, Feedback loops.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Radiation Exposure and Evolutionary Perspectives: Neutral Theory Revisited
A.L. Bhatia, Shikha Patni* and Shipra Sharma Radiation Biology Laboratory, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302004 (Raj.); India.
Abstract : The growing evidence of low level of radiation at the molecular level supports the neutral theory and paves way to an adaptive response and if carefully examined, for hormesis too. It warrants quests for the evidence for hormesis in the light of an evolutionary expectation. Molecular divergence between species is an extension of the process of either radiation adaptive response or hormesis, which is caused by neutral mutations, which are fixed in one, or the other species. Neutral theory introduced by the Japanese geneticist Motoo Kimura (1968) published in Nature in 1968, calculated the evolutionary rate of protein and found that it is much higher than expected by the result of natural selection. In the wake of findings of Human Genome Project, it would be worth investing to revisit the neutral theory which doesn’t say that natural selection plays no role, but the selection intensity involved in the process is so weak that at protein levels in molecular evolution at DNA, a mutation pressures as well as random drift always prevail. Since, mutations are selectively neutral, therefore long-term heterozygosity reflects only in population history and in the mutation rate! The Neutral Theory in fact considers that genes and proteins are so well adapted because of past natural selection. Ubiquitous radiation and radioactivity have been unavoidable and would have taught life to evolve safely in a progressive, rather in retrogressive manner. The truncated natural dose commitment for various periods since the assumed appearance of some of our ancestors may be calculated much higher than the present period. Since, background radiation has been a universal component of our environment, radiation adaptive response and possibly hormesis may be claimed to be an evolutionary expectation. It may also support the cause of the neutral theory of evolution, which states that molecular polymorphism observed in natural population is due to neutral mutation under drift equilibrium. Radiation reaches us from outer space and comes from radionuclides present in rocks, buildings, air, and even from our own bodies since time immemorial. At least a billion particles of natural radiation enter our bodies, every day. However, collective dose and dose commitment though do not have any biological meaning, yet if they have, it shows that life evolved in with the tendency for organisms to become progressively adapted to an environment with the advent of oxygen in the presence of radiation absorbed dose due to intense UV. Key words : Neutral theory, Human Genome Project, Radiation, Evolution.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The Influence of External Na+, K+ and pH on Caesium Toxicity in the Cyanobacterium, Nostoc muscorum
R.K. Kachouli, V. Kaithwas and S. Bhargava* Division of Microbiology, Department of Botany, Government Motilal Science College, Bhopal-462003 (M.P.); India.
Abstract : The cyanobacterium, Nostoc muscorum, was examined for the caesium toxicity in the diazotrophic growth medium in the presence/absence of Na+/K+. CsCl at a concentration of 2mM was found lethal to the diazotrophically grown cultures. Addition of graded concentration of Na+ and K+ mitigates Cs+ toxicity. The Cs+ toxicity is less when the culture medium supplied with both Na+ and K+, simultaneously. The effect of pH was studied to determine Cs+ toxicity at higher alkaline pH. The examined cyanobacterium showed more sensitivity towards Cs+ when exposed to higher alkaline pH. Hence, it is concluded that Cs+ accumulation and toxicity are closely related to cellular Na+ and K+ status and external pH. The information regarding interaction between Cs+ and other monovalent cations can be helpful in removing and recovering Cs+ from the Cs+-polluted habitats. Key words : Cyanobacterium, Caesium toxicity, Diazotrophic, Nostoc muscorum.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Nonparametric Methods for Stability Determination in Mulberry Silkworm
G. Subramanya*, E. Talebi, D. Jamuna and M.S. Doddaswamy Department of Studies in Sericultural Science, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570006 (Karnataka); India.
Abstract : It is well known that phenotypic value is determined partly by the genotype and partly by the environment experienced by the individual during the development and expression of the phenotypic value. In identifying genotypes for silkworm breeding programs, their performance stability stands as a major criterion. This means that an increase in cocoon production and accuracy of performance, stability evaluation will help in judging appropriate crossing programs in silkworm. Phenotypic stability of evaluation index was evaluated in thirteen silkworm genotypes across three seasons (twelve different times) in Mysore, India, during 2004 to 2007. The data was evaluated by means of Huehn nonparametric stability indices by analyzing, Si(1) (mean of the absolute rank differences of a genotype over environments) and Si(2) (variance among the ranks over environments). For a genotype with maximum stability Si(1) = 0 and Si(2) = 0. The nonparametric stability parameters denoted as NP(1), NP(2), NP(3), NP(4) and NP(5) identified MU406, MG414, MU405 and Hosa Mysore using Si(1). On the other hand Si(2) identified MU406, MG414, MU405, MU1 and Tamil nadu white breeds. Based on these results it could be stated that Huhn's indices of stability seem to be a rather appropriate approach for achieving an accurate classification of genotypes on the basis of their phenotypic stability. Key words : Evaluation index, Nonparametric analysis, Phenotypic stability, Silkworm.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Toxic Impact of Phthalate (Di-n-butyl phthalate) on Haematological Profile of Mice
Suruchi Kumari and M.P. Sinha* Department of Zoology, Ranchi University, Ranchi-834008; India
Abstract : The haematological toxicity of phthalate was studied in mice in laboratory experiments. The sub-lethal concentration of 1.666 ml of phthalate/Kg body wt. of mice was administrated subcutaneously in the experiments. The mice were kept at room temperature and kept on normal diet. The hematological profile was analyzed at an interval of 3 days and continued up to 18 days. A significant decrease in haemoglobin % and total erythrocyte count was observed. The maximum reduction in haemoglobin % (6.5%) was noticed on 3rd day but the reduction in % was slightly improved on 18th day. In total erythrocytes count, the highest % (8.92%) was on 18th day. An increasing pattern was also noticed in the total counts on these intervals. The differential counts % of neutrophils (up to 40.9%) and lymphocytes (up to 388%) were maximum on 9th day. The present study suggests that phthalate was a potent hematological toxin. Key words : Phthalate, Hematological profile, Toxicity.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Thidiazuron Induced High-frequency Shoot Regeneration from Nodal Explants in Adathoda vasica Nees
Shabir A. Lone, A.S. Yadav*, A. Bajaj, Firdoous A. Mir, Ajit K. Sharma and Shalindra K. Uike Molecular Biology and Seed Technology Laboratory, Govt. Motilal Vigyan Mahavidyalaya (MVM), Bhopal-08 (M.P.), India
Abstract : To improve shoot regeneration and proliferation methods for Adathoda vasica Nees., the present study was initiated to test the effect of thidiazuron (TDZ; N-phenyl-N’-1,2,3-thiadiazol-5-ylurea)) on shoot regeneration in nodal explants of Adathoda vasica Nees. The medium for propagation contained MS salts, B5 vitamins, 30 g l-1 sucrose and 8.0 g l–1 agar (designated as MSB medium). The effect of thidiazuron (TDZ; N-phenyl-N’-1,2,3-thiadiazol-5-ylurea) in the culture medium was found to be superior to the combined treatments of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and a-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA). In the combined treatment of BAP and NAA the highest number of shoots 16 per nodal explants occurred at 2.0 mg l-1 BAP with 0.5 mgl-1 NAA after 7 weeks of incubation. However, in the sole presence of TDZ the highest number of shoots 20 per nodal explants occurred at 0.5mg l-1 TDZ after 7 weeks of incubation. The shoot proliferation increased significantly up to 24 shoots per nodal explants on MSB medium supplemented with combined treatments of TDZ, BAP and NAA. In-vitro produced shoots exhibited good rooting response in MSB medium supplemented with different concentrations of auxins. After 20 days of hardening of plantlets almost 99% of rooted plants could be successfully transferred and acclimatized ex-vitro under poly-house conditions, followed by their establishment in the field. Key words : Adathoda vasica, Thidiazuron, 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), a-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA).
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A Preliminary Limnological Study on Shershah Suri Pond, Sasaram, Bihar
Pramod Kumar*, Fozia Sonaullah and Wanganeo A. Department of Environmental Science and Limnology, Barkatullah University, Bhopal-462026 (M.P.); India.
Abstract : Present work has been conducted on Shershah Suri pond (a man made pond) encircling the Tomb of Shershah Suri in Sasaram. The pond water is mainly used for bathing, washing of clothes and for immersion of idols besides regular inflow of domestic wastewater. Private entrepreneurs also raise some fish species in this pond. The physico-chemical and biological characteristics of the pond reveal degrading condition of the ambient water, which can be felt on account of its obnoxious smell and greenish appearance. During present study 89 species of phytoplankton and 41 species of zooplankton have been recorded. Among phytoplankton class Cyanophyceae was the most dominant where as, among zooplankton Rotifera was the dominant class during the study period. Present study reveals the eutrophic nature of pond. Key words : Water quality, Plankton population, Shershah Suri Pond.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Six Interactive Global Crises
John Cairns, Jr. Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, USA
Abstract : Humankind is facing six interactive global crises: (1) climate change, (2) overpopulation, (3) species impoverishment (i.e., loss of biodiversity), (4) ecological overshoot (i.e., ecological deficit), (5) excessive use of fossil fuels (i.e., which release carbon dioxide when burned), (6) inadequate food and water. Since, the crises are interactive, they must be resolved simultaneously; furthermore, since they are all global, only a global solution by all nations will suffice. Since these crises are probably all at or near a major tipping point, major action must be immediate. Failure to resolve any of the issues almost certainly means the end of civilization as it currently exists. The present population numbers, density, and distribution mean that failure to resolve even one of the six crises could have catastrophic consequences. The obstacles to reaching these goals are formidable since anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions are still increasing dramatically, exponential population growth continues, biodiversity loss is at an unacceptable level, ecological overshoot day occurs earlier each year, the global financial recession has reduced fossil fuel consumption but economically retrievable reserves are diminishing, and climate change is having adverse effects upon both agricultural productivity and supplies of freshwater. Ironically, rapid economic growth has caused, directly or indirectly, all of these problems, as has exponential human population growth and resource consumption. Since global climate change is irreversible, the climate changes occurring after each tipping point will persist. Each of these major changes will affect the biosphere, of which humankind is a part. Failure to adapt to these changes will mean extinction for many species and could include Homo sapiens. However, if the five great past extinctions are a reliable guide, then life will survive and, over evolutionary time, biodiversity will be restored. The present biosphere is worth preserving since it has maintained conditions favorable to hominids for 4 million years and since it is the source of resources upon which the human economy depends. Key words : Climate change, Overpopulation, Biodiversity loss, Ecological overshoot, Fossil fuels, Food and water supplies.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Economic Efficiency of Indian Electric Power Distribution Sector
Seema Saxena*1, Tripta Thakur2, V.K. Sethi3 1 U.I.T., Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidhyalaya, Bhopal (M.P.); India. 2 M.A.N.I.T., Bhopal (M.P.); India. 3 U.I.T., Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidhyalaya, Bhopal (M.P.); India.
Abstract : Efficiency analysis has played a crucial role in defining regulatory policies, mainly in industries characterized by natural monopolies and/or by public ownership, as in the electricity sector. The objective of this paper is to assess the economic efficiency of Indian electricity distribution companies to generate information for an incentive-oriented regulation, with benchmarking. Results of benchmarking studies allow companies to compare themselves with the best in the class and then to develop strategic plans for improvements in their performance. We have applied DEA to provide quantitative evidence on the effectiveness of the power distribution sector and utilities under different perspectives for sustainability of the power supply industry in India. The result implies that a very large number of utilities in India are relatively inefficient, and there exists significant scope for improving the operations. This also implies the need for greater control on operation and maintenance (O and M) of infrastructure for making the sector sustainable. Key words : Benchmarking, DEA, Distribution utilities, Economic efficiency, CRS model, VRS model.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Gynecological Malignancies
Prateek S. Gehlot Department of Radio-diagnosis, R.D.Gardi Medical College, Surasa, Ujjain (India).
Abstract : During the past couple of decades importance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has increased exponentially in gynecologic oncology. Undoubtedly, MRI is superior to sonography and computed tomography scan in staging of endometrial, ovarian and cervical carcinomas. The goal of this paper is to provide an insight into characteristic MRI appearance of few gynecological malignancies based on scans done at R.D. Gardi Medical College using 1.5T GE HDe MRI scanner. T1W, T2W and STIR sequences of pelvis of suspected cases of gynecological malignancy was done and the diagnosis was confirmed by histpathology or referred to higher center for further management. Detailed interpretation of images obtained in various planes was done with reference to anatomical location and appearance of pathology, involvement of adjacent structures and fat planes, lymph nodes, peritoneal seedings and secondaries. Key words : Malignant degeneration, Spin echo, Fast spin echo, Fat suppression.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Migration of Root Nodulating Bacteria from Their Parental Host
Syed Farook Ali1*, Lokesh Singh Rawat1, Hemraj Chhipa2 and Suresh Kumar Mahna1 1 Department of Botany, Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati University, Ajmer-305009 (Rajasthan); India. 2 Department of Microbiology, Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati University, Ajmer-305009 (Rajasthan); India.
Abstract : In the present investigation, migration of root nodulating bacteria from their parental host was studied nearby from legume population at Parabatpura, Ajmer. To perform the experiment, air and water samples were collected from different distances from legume planted area. Isolation of root nodulating bacteria was done by using YEMA media containing Congo Red dye employing standard microbiological protocols. During isolation, seven isolates were obtained, which were further characterized and tested for their infectivity in different locally growing herb and tree legumes. Resulted, three isolates were authenticated as root nodulating microsymbionts. The results achieved in the current study assert the presence of Vigna microsymbiont in running water, situated at more than 500 meter away from Vigna fields. Bacteria obtained from air samples, 50 meter (M-3) and 150 meter (M-5) were able to cause nodulation in Prosopis juliflora. Moreover, bacterial isolate M-3 could nodulate Albezia lebbeck situated at 100 meter distance from the site of sample collection. It is concluded from this study that water may be an important source for long distance transportation of some rhizobia. This information may be beneficial for extension of legume in a new environment especially in virgin area. Key words : Root nodulating bacteria, Migration, Water, Legume, Inoculation.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Formation of New Zinc (II) Complex with Lansoprazole-An Anti-Ulcerative Drug
Supriya Das1, Suman Malik1, and Bharti Jain2* 1 Department of Chemistry, Sadhu Vaswani College Bairagarh, Bhopal (M.P.); India. 2 Department of Chemistry, Sarojni Naidu Govt. Girls College, Bhopal (M.P.); India.
Abstract : Lansoprazole (LAN) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). PPI’s have enabled to improve the treatment of various acid-peptic disorders including Zollinger-Ellisonsyndrome. LAN is a weak base and it can form several complexes with transition and non-transitions metal ions. In the present paper, we are describing the synthesis and characterization of metal complex of Zn (II) with LAN. Analytical data and stoichiometry suggest ligand-metal ratio as 2:1 for Zn (II) complex. The complex has been synthesized, characterized and the structure assigned to the complex is supported by infrared spectral studies. Key words : Lansoprazole, Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI), Metal-Complex, Stoichiometry, Infrared studies.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Evaluation of Type-I Anti-diabetic Activity of Phyllanthus niruri and Combination of Phyllanthus niruri and Gymnema sylvestre
Bharathi K.N.*, Vishal Dattani Department of Pharmacology Visveswarapura Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bangalore-560070 (Karnataka); India.
Abstract : The present study was to evaluate and compare the antidiabetic activity of aqueous extracts of Phyllanthus niruri and combination of Phyllanthus niruri and Gymnema sylvestre in streptozotocin induced type I diabetic rats. Type I diabetes mellitus was induced by i.p. injection of streptozotocin 60 mg/kg/5 ml of 50 mM citrate buffer, in six week old albino rats of Sprague-Dawley strain. Animals with highest rise in plasma glucose levels were selected for the study. These animals were randomly grouped and treated with single dose of Phyllanthus niruri (250 mg, 500mg/kg b.w.,p.o.), combination of Phyllanthus niruri (250 mg, 500 mg/kg b.w.,p.o.) and Gymnema sylvestre (36 mg, 72 mg/kg b.w.,p.o.) and standard insulin (5 IU/kg b.w.,s.c.), respectively for 21 days. Glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride levels in plasma and body weight changes were measured on day 0, 7, 14, and 21. The Histopathological changes in the pancreas were also evaluated at the end of study period. Oral treatment with Phyllanthus niruri (250 mg/kg, 500mg/kg) and combination of Phyllanthus niruri (250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg) and Gymnema sylvestre (36 mg/kg, 72 mg/kg) showed significant reduction in the plasma glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride levels in diabetic rats. Treatment increased body weight in diabetic rats. Histopathological studies showed it also regenerated β cells in pancreas. Antidiabetic activity of higher dose combination of Phyllanthus niruri (500 mg/kg b.w.,p.o.) and Gymnema sylvestre (72 mg/kg b.w.,p.o.) was comparable with insulin since plasma levels of glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride were reduced to normal range. Phyllanthus niruri wasfound to possess antidiabetic activity may be due to regeneration of pancreatic β cells. Combination of Phyllanthus niruri and Gymnema sylvestre exhibited greater antidiabetic activity may be due to additive effect. Key words : Phyllanthus niruri, Gymnema sylvestre, Streptozotocin, Insulin, Type-1 diabetes mellitus.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Phytochemical and Antimicrobial Screening of Momordica dioica Roxb. and Moringa oleifera Lam.
P.K. Katariya, M. Mathur, S. Yadav and R. Kamal* Laboratory of Medicinal Plant Biotechnology, Department of Botany, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302055 (Raj.); India.
Abstract : The methanol extracts of Momordica dioica Roxb. and Moringa oleifera Lam. were evaluated for antimicrobial activity. The dried plant parts of M. dioica (leaves, fruit, stem and root) and M.oleifera (flower, leaves, pod, stem and root)were extracted with 95% methanol. The preliminary phytochemical investigation was done for identification of various phytochemical constituents present in the extracts and also subjected to antimicrobial activity for the assessment of inhibitory effects of the alcoholic extracts of these plants against eight medically important pathogenic microbes by in vitro agar well diffusion method. The results of the preliminary phytochemical studies revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, tannins, steroids, saponins in experimental plants. In addition to this, these extracts exhibited significant zone of inhibition and good antimicrobial activity against the majority of the selected strains of microorganisms, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsilla pneumoniae, Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, Rhizopus stonifer and Alternaria alternaria. These present results leading to the conclusion that these plants would serve as novel sources of antimicrobial agents. These secondary metabolites are most likely responsible for the observed activity of the plant parts. Results obtained in this work justify the medicinal uses to which M. oleifera and M. dioica parts have been employed traditionally in recipes for infection. Key words : Agar Well Diffusion, Momordica dioica, Moringa oleifera, Phytochemical screening, Antimicrobial agents.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The Human Economy is a Subset of the Biosphere
John Cairns, Jr. Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, USA
Abstract : For decades, deniers of the need to protect the environment have used the tactic of pitting the environment against the economy. However, this disingenuous tactic ignores the dependence of the human economy on the biosphere for raw materials (i.e., natural resources) and also that the present biospheric life support system has maintained conditions favorable (e.g., atmospheric gas balance) to the genus Homo for approximately 2 million years and for Homo sapiens for about 160,000 to 200,000 years. If this dependence were not significant, humans would become extinct and the human economy would disappear with them. Since the human economy is totally dependent upon the biosphere and humans are dependent on the biospheric life support system, why are they tolerant of the type of economic growth that damages the biosphere? The only reason that has some dubious validity is the assumption that, when a resource disappears, human ingenuity and creativity will be able to find a substitute for it. In short, deniers speculate that growth has no limits. However, in the latter part of the 20th century, ample evidence became available that this speculation was simply not true. In addition, persuasive evidence also substantiates that non-carbon alternative energy sources (e.g., solar, wind) would be less damaging to the environment and also be an economic stimulus. Humankind should only engage in activities that nurture the biosphere. Key words : Biosphere, Life support system, Economic growth, Natural resources, Environment versus economy, Environmental damage deniers.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Biological Control of Lantana Camara by Simultaneous Application of Two Insects, Teleonemia Scrupulosa and Leptobyrsa Decora together with the Spraying of Alternaria Sps.
Mahima Tripathi, Manjusha Pouranik and Shajiya Tabassum Mata Gujri Women's College, Jabalpur (M. P.); India.
Abstract : Lantana camara is an allelopathic weed present everywhere in India. The weed is extremely hazardous and its management and control is difficult. In the present study an attempt has been made to biologically control this weed through the use of two insect species, Teleonemia scrupulosa and Leptobyrsa decora along with spraying of a fungus, Alternaria. These insect species feed on the leaves, inflorescence and fruits of Lantana causing a burning appearance. The fungus, Alternaria produces external brownish white mycelium on the stem petioles and leaves causing severe leaf falls and finally annihilate the shoot completely. Key words : Teleonemia scrupulosa, Leptobyrsa decora, Alternaria, Mycelial web.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Analysis of Genetic Diversity in Lamellidens corrianus using RAPD Markers
Suruchi Jamkhedkar and B.L. Jadhav* Department of Life Sciences, University of Mumbai, Vidyanagari Campus, Santacruz (East), Mumbai-400098 (Maharashtra); India.
Abstract : Lamellidens corrianus is a pearl producing freshwater bivalve indigenous to Indian subcontinent. In present study the wild population samples of L. corrianus were collected from Powai, Khopoli and Shahapur water bodies of Konkan region (Maharashtra, India) used in breeding program and studied for genetic characterization using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. The total scorable bands were 177, out of which 93 were polymorphic. The maximum percentage of polymorphic bands was found in Shahapur (82.49%) followed by Khopoli (78.53%) and minimum in Powai (59.32%). The Gst (coefficient of genetic differentiation) estimates based on RAPD analysis confirmed the existence of marginal genetic differentiation among populations. The dendrograms of RAPD markers gave three different clusters viz Powai, Shahapur and Khopoli indicating these populations as sub species of L. corrianus. Key words : Lamellidens corrianus, Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD).
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Effect of Complete Dentures on Body Posture in Spondylitis Patients
Surendra Agrawal and Kirti Somkuwar* Department of Prosthodontics People College of Dental Sciences and Research Centre, Bhopal (M.P.); India.
Abstract : It has been suggested that the change of occlusion affects the postural reflexes and various muscle functions of the head and neck, which results in changes of the head posture. Furthermore, these changes may have an impact on the body posture. This study examined the influence of complete dentures on head posture of edentulous elderly patients who were having a history of spondylitis since a long period of time and were under medication. Key words : Spondylitis, Postural reflexes, Denture.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Wien Bridge Oscillator Using Current Conveyors
Sadanand Bimal1, Anwar A. Khan2, K. K. Dey3 and S.S. Roy3 1 Department of Physics, B. I. T. Sindri-828123, Dhanbad (Jharkhand) 2 Ranchi University, Ranchi, Jharkhand. 3 Electronics Laboratory, Department of Physics, Ranchi University, Ranchi (Jharkhand)
Abstract : In this paper, three new Wien bridge oscillator circuits using AD844 configured as second-generation current conveyors are proposed, analyzed and studied experimentally. Other important effects such as the influence of voltage and current tracking errors on the circuit’s performance are studied. In all the three circuits it has been found that the voltage and current tracking errors associated with AD844 do not affect the frequency of the oscillations. The circuits proposed are attractive for integration. Key words : Wien bridge, Oscillator, Current conveyor, AD844.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Fluorescence Characteristics of 2-benzo [1, 3] dioxol-5-yl-2, 3-dihydro-furo [2, 3-h] chromone-4-one Isolated from Pongamia glabra
Shubashini K Sripathi* and Lalitha. P. Department of Chemistry, Avinashilingam University for Women, Coimbatore - 641043; India.
Abstract : The aim of the present investigation is to determine the fluorescence characteristics of 2-benzo[1,3] dioxol-5-yl-2,3-dihydro-furo[2,3-h]chromone-4-one. The compound was isolated by column chromatography of the benzene extract of the galls of Pongamia glabra. The structures was characterized by preliminary colour tests and UV and Fluorescence spectra as well as PMR and IR spectra. The emission peaks were located at 426 nm and the compound may be considered to show good emission fluorescence, a property useful in identification and also quantification of organic compounds. Key words : Flavonoids, Emission fluorescence, Pongamia glabra.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Has Human Society Passed a Tipping Point for Effective Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions?
John Cairns, Jr. Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, USA
Abstract : Recent publications have indicated that a 2°C increase of global average temperature, once thought acceptable, may involve serious risks (Greg, 2004). A global mean temperature increase of 4°C would be hotter than any time in the last 30 million years, and this increase could be realized as early as 2060–2070 (Leahy, 2009). The prospects of plans for major, immediate reduction of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions at the climate conference at Copenhagen in December 2009 do not seem likely. A climate bill in the US Congress probably will be weakened by numerous amendments, and China and India are not eager to implement major reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Even if the Copenhagen Conference recommends major reductions, they are likely to be fiercely resisted because of present economic conditions. Neither politicians nor citizens seem prepared to make the “sacrifices” needed for rapid reductions of greenhouse gas emissions. Key words : Rapid climate change, Reduced agricultural productivity, Inadequate freshwater, Societal tipping points, Climate tipping points, Climate conferences.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Acute and Sub-chronic Oral Toxicity of Cypermethrin in Rats
Padma Saxena* and Ashok K. Saxena Department of Zoology, D.A.V. College, Kanpur (U.P.) (India)
Abstract : The present study was performed to calculate the acute and sub- chronic doses of cypermethrin to avoid damage to non- target organisms including human beings. The cypermethrin, a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide is now widely used in world being considered as safe. LD50 was calculated in rats as 620 mg/kg b.wt. In the present study, 310 mg/kg b.wt. of cypermethrin was administered orally for acute treatment and was given once and later 15 mg/kg. b.wt. was administered on 7, 14 and 21 days as sub-chronic doses. Results show that cypermethrin caused a significant decrease (P<0.05) in RBC count (Red Blood Corpuscles) from 4.45X1012/L to 3.37X1012/L , PCV (Packed Cell Volume) from 47.00 % to 42.6 % , Hb (Haemoglobin Concentration) from 11g/dl to 7.33g/dl and MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration) from 23.39 g/dl to 17.05g/dl. While significant increase (P<0.05) was noticed in TLC (Total Leukocyte Count) from 6.76X103/l to 9.0X103/l and MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) from 105.63 fl to 127.46 fl in all treated groups in comparison with controls. On the basis of these results, it is concluded that cypermethrin is not safe for non-target animals in high doses as it induces changes in blood constitution. Key words : Rats, Cypermethrin, Acute, Subchronic, Haematology.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Effect of Heavy Metals Cadmium and Chromium on Carbohydrate Metabolism of Fresh Water Fish, Channa punctatus.
Jyotsna Singh*1, Sarita Sachdeva2, K.S. Rana3 and Shweta Arya4 1 Department of Zoology, KLMDN College for Women, Faridabad; India. 2 Department of Biotechnology, FET, MRIU, Faridabad; India. 3 Department of Zoology, Agra College, Agra (U.P.); India. 4 KLMDN College for Women, Faridabad; India.
Abstract : Heavy metals like Cadmium and Chromium are known to cause changes in the metabolic activities of various organisms. In this study the fish Channa punctatus was subjected to sub-lethal doses of Cadmium and Chromium for 45 days .The tissue extracts were taken and tested for activity of key enzyme of Glycolysis and Krebs’s cycle along with their biochemical components. In liver LDH activities doubled by 104.16% with cadmium and decreased by 39.11% with chromium. PDH activity increased to 121% with cadmium and 155.74% with Chromium respectively. Glucose-6-phosphatase activity increased by 17% with cadmium and decreased marginally by 3.40% with Chromium. In muscle LDH activity increased by 18% with cadmium and 19% with chromium. Glucose-6-phosphatase activity was insignificant in muscles. In Gills PDH activity increased to 76.59% with cadmium while it decreased to 48% with chromium. SDH activity increased upto 92.6% with cadmium but decreased marginally by 1.66% with chromium. LDH activity decreased by 12.20% in cadmium treated fish while increased by 80% with chromium. SDH activity increased with both cadmium and chromium upto 42%. Glucose-6-phosphatase showed increased activity with cadmium 2.85% and decreased to 4.50% with chromium. In blood the amount of glucose increased by 35% in Cadmium treated fish while it decreased by 25% in chromium treated fish. Lactic acid increased by 5.7% with cadmium and decreased by 19.5% with chromium. Pyruvic acid increased by 80.76% with cadmium and decreased by 28.2% with Chromium. Thus, it may be concluded that long time exposure to cadmium or chromium in the present study resulted in increase in glycolysis and impaired oxidative metabolism. Key words : Tissues, Enzymes, Blood biochemical components.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Radioprotective Efficacy of Indian Fruits against Ionizing Radiations Rashmi Sisodia Department of Zoology, Radiation Biology Laboratory, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302004 (Raj.); India. Abstract : Botanicals such as Podophyllum hexandrum, Syzigium cumini L., Hippophae rhamnoides, Phyllanthus amarus, Emblica officinalis, Piper longum, Terminalia chebula, Crataegus monogyna, citrus extracts, Triphala, Banana, Myristica fragrans, Mangifera indica, Aegle marmelos, Hippophae rhamnoides L, Grewia asiatica and Prunus avium protect against radiation-induced lethality, lipid peroxidation and DNA damage. This review may help to develop new radioprotectors of desired activities and highlights radioprotective efficacy of other unexplored fruits having medicinal properties in traditional system of medicine. Key words : Radioprotection, Ionizing Radiations, Indian Fruits and Antioxidants.
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