016146   Rajan M R;Nagaraj M (Biology Dep, Gandhigram Rural Institute-Deemed University, Gandhigram-624 302) : Antimicrobial activity of selected spices. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 647-50.

Antimicrobial activity of selected spices such as clove, pepper, coriander and cuminum was assessed against two pathogens namely Escherichia coli and staphylococcus aureus. Screening was performed by Kirby - Bauer disc diffusion and plate dilution technique. Among the four spices tested the highest degree of antmicrobial effect was exhibited by the extracts of the buds of clove Syzygiu aromacticum. and the seeds of pepper piper nigram. The seeds of coriander Coriandrum sativam and Cuminum Cuminum cyminum had least effect on Staphylococcus aureus. Escherichia coli was susceptible to all the spices extracts.

6 tables, 12 ref

016145   Prathapan K D (Entomology Dep, Kerala Agricultural Univ, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram-695 522, Email: prathapankd@gmail.com) : Conservation of cycads in India. Curr Sci 2006, 91(7), 862-3.

1 illus

016144   Pandey R K;Saini S K (Forest Ecology & Environment Division, State Forest Research Institute, Polipathar, Jabalpur-482 008) : Edible plants of tropical forests among tribal communities of Madhya Pradesh. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(1), 185-90.

In Madhya Pradesh, Baiga and Gond tribes are identified as the main collectors and users of forest resources among the forest dwellers. These non-wood forest products (NTFPs) have immense potential to meet the daily requirement of tribal communities and also a source of raw material supply to small pharmaceutical industries. The forest resources of Baiga dominated forest areas of Dindori district of Madhya Pradesh contribute more than 60% of their annual income. Baiga communities collect the maximum forest resources for their subsistence among forest dwelling communities in the world. Many people living in and around forests are unaware of the potential of these resources for income generation because they lack access to information on processing possibilities. Local people and institutional stakeholders resulting into depletion of resources in natural forests ignore sustainable harvesting of forest resources. An attempt has been made to assess the status of economically important utilizable forest resources in their natural habitats of tropical forests of tropical forests of Dindori and Mandla districts.

5 tables, 9 ref

016143   Pal A;Das S (Plant Molecular and Cellular Genetics, Bose Institute, Kolkata-700 054) : Arabinogalactan-proteins : role in plant tissue differentiation and commercial importance. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2006, 76(4), 312-20.

Arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs), a class of plasma membrane-associated proteoglycans, are implicated in the control of plant cell proliferation and differentiation. Functions of AGPs are being monitored using monoclonal antibodies in biochemical and immunolocalization studies and with synthetic phenyl glycosides, known as Yariv reagents that have the ability to bind to AGPs and to block their function within living cell. Presence of AGPs in the cotyledons of Vigna radiata was demonstrated through histochemical staining with Yariv reagent and also verified through gel electrophoretic study. The dose dependent phytohormone like effect in inducing in vitro regeneration from the cotyledon of V. radiata suggests the role of β-arabinogalactan as precursor molecule of AGP, a probable growth regulator. It is presumed that in vitro differentiation of recalcitrant plant species could be achieved through controlled regulation of this class of proteoglycans.

^iia2 illus, 57 ref

016142   Murugan T;Manikantavelu T (Microbiology Dep, S R M Arts & Science College, Kattankulathur-603 203) : Ammonifiers as causative crashers in Spirulina culture. J Ecobiol 2006, 19(1), 95-6.

Spirulina has been assuming importance by virtue of its nutritional and pharmacopoeic potentials. Ammonification has been reckoned upon as one of the major issues in Spirulina cultivation. The proliferation of protease releasing ammonifiers at the cost of Spirulina from 10^th day onwards indicates the prevalence of ammonification.

1 table, 4 ref

016141   Murugan R;Rao R R;Vishwanatha, (NO, Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic plants, Allalasandra, GKVK Post, Bangalore-560 065, Email: rr_rao@vsnl.net) : Occurrence of Phyllanthus scabrifolius Hook.f. in Amingad, Bagalkot district, Karnataka - a new distributional record. Curr Sci 2006, 91(7), 870-71.

^ssc1 illus, 3 ref

016140   Muniappan R;Viraktamath C A (Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Guam, Mangilao, Guam 96923 USA, Email: viraktamath@rediffmail.com) : The asian cycad scale Aulocaspis yasumatsui, a heart to native cycads in India. Curr Sci 2006, 91(7), 868-70.

^ssc2 illus, 11 ref

016139   Mishra D;Rajesh;Chakravarty M;Goutam M P (NO, Pt. R.S.S. University, Raipur (Chhattisgarh)) : Traditional medicinal practices among the various tribal groups of Kanker district of Bastar division. Indian For 2006, 132(7), 850-5.

Study is an attempt to explore the ethno-medicinal system of the tribal and rural areas of the Kanker District, Bastar Division (Chhattisgarh) not as a set of abstract beliefs and practices, in isolation, but as an essential part of the tribal social structure. The study mainly deals with the indigenous herbal mode of treatment among the tribal and rural people of the area. Though modern medical facilities are present in that area but herbal remedies play an important role in their culture. It is an interesting fact that they accept modern medicine, but have ardent faith in herbal medicines and use them for different types of sufferings.

3 illus, 1 table,

016138   Manoharachary C;Kunwar I K;Babu K S (Botany Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 007) : Rhizosphere - the hidden ecological niche and hot spot. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2006, 76(4), 321-42.

Rhizosphere is a well recognised and specialised ecological niche for fungi, bacteria, actinomycetes and other microbes. Rhizosphere is the narrow zone of soil around roots supporting diversified microorganisms, and is influenced by root exudates, soil factors, age and type of host plant and molecular signals. Rhizosphere effect, the stimulating effect of the roots on the microorganisms is indicated by the interaction of soil and rhizosphere microbes and their ratio. Interacting microorganisms contribute to crop productivity and soil fertility. Antagonistic and industrially important fungi are also present in the rhizosphere. Biological control of plant pathogens by rhizosphere microbes may be based on the production of their metabolites such as antibiotics, siderophores, and hydrogen cyanide. In recent times most of the microbiologists and mycologists have diverted their attention towards molecular aspects and biotechnology, thus neglecting rhizosphere microbial ecology which is a hidden wealth and hot spot.

^iia3 tables, 204 ref

016137   Manithottam J;Francis M S (Botany Dep, Center for Postgraduate Studies and Research, Sacred Heart College, Thevara, Cochin-682 013, Email: msfrancisman@yahoo.co.uk) : Arenga wightii Griff.- a unique source of starch and beverage for Muthuvan tribe of Idukki district, Kerala. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(1), 195-8.

Arenga wightii Griff, is a palm seen along the slopes of western Ghats in Idukki district of Kerala state. Muthuvan tribal community living in Idukki district utilizes the plant for extraction of starch and palm vine. They have developed and standardized their own techniques for extraction of starch and palm vine. The starch extracted is used for the preparation of various dishes while palm vine is consumed directly without fermentation. The paper deals with the method of extraction of starch and palm vine and its usage.

9 illus, 6 ref

016136   Manithottam J;Francis M S (Botany Dep, Center for Postgraduate Studies and Research, Sacred Heart College, Thevara, Cochin-682 013, Email: msfrancisman@yahoo.co.uk) : Ethnobotany of finger millet among Muthuvan tribes of Idukki district, Kerala. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(1), 160-2.

Muthuvan tribes of Idukki district adopt slash and burn method of cultivation for Eleucine coracana (L.) Gaerten. The selection of land is based on ecological indicators such as Carex myosurus Nees and Selena terrestris (L.) Fasset. Their intercropping pattern, seed material storage and shifting cultivation remain unique in several ways. Katty is a special dish prepared from the powdered grains of Eleucine by these people.

4 illus, 8 ref

016135   Mahendra Singh (PG Dep of Botany, Sahibganj College, S.K.M. University, Sahibganj-816 109) : Effect of stone dust on the exposed leaves of some plants located near quarry sites (stone crushers) affecting DHC and pH. Envir Ecol 2006, 24S(1), 227-8.

It was generally observed that the broader leaves harbored comparativley higher amount of dust deposition as compared to medium and small leaf sizes. The flttened/petioleted leaves were suitable for dust deposition than those of the sessile and inclined or tilted/isobilateral. The pH of the leaf wash may also vary accordingly because of the leaf texture, permeability of the cell sap through stomatas and hydothodes in the form of dissolved nutrients oozing from the leaf surface.

1 table, 5 ref

016134   Kushwaha R K S;Singh I (Botany Dep, Christ Church College, Kanpur-208 001) : Influence of some soaps, detergents and shampoos on hair perforation by dermatophytes. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2006, 76(4), 358-60.

Fourteen detergents including soaps, shampoos, synthetic and-natural detergents were tested to find out their efficacy to inhibit hair perforation by Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton vanbreuseghemii. All the detergents used here inhibited hair perforation and protein release by two dermatophytes.

1 table, 10 ref

016133   Kiruba S;Jeeva S;Sam Manohar Das S;Kannan D (Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre in Zoology, Scott Christian College, Nagercoil-629 603) : Bamboo seeds as a means of the indigenous community. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(1), 199-203.

Bamboo is a natural gift for human livelihood. Bamboo has the peculiarity of flowering and seeding only after a long vegetative phase, and it varies from species to species. The present paper deals with the use of seeds of Bambusa arundinacea Willd. by the Kani tribes of Kanyakumari district, southern western Ghats. Method of seed collection, storage and mode of consumption by indigenous people have been described. The indigenous community not only uses the seeds as a food, but also as commercial commodity to improve the economy. The Kani tribes believe that the seeds of Bambusa arundinacea enhance the fertility, so that there is great demand of seeds of this species in pharmaceutical industry to manufacture drugs to improve fertility.

3 illus, 1 table, 27 ref

016132   Kayang H (Botany Dep, School of Life Science, Mawlai Mawkynroh Permanent Campus, North Eastern Hill University, Shillong-793 022, Email: hkayang@hotmail.com) : Tribal knowledge on wild edible plants of Meghalaya, Northeast India. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(1), 177-81.

Documentation of tribal knowledge on wild edible plants of Meghalaya brought to light a number of wild plant species used as edibles. The plant parts, viz. roots, tubers, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds are used in raw or cooked forms. The present study records 110 wild growing plants, which are eaten whole or in part by the local people. The paper enumerates and discusses various aspects of the wild plants used by Khasi, Jaintia and garo tribes of Meghalaya.

1 table, 3 ref

016131   Katiyar S R (NO, , ) : Conservation of some valuable medicinal and aromatic plants in Uttaranchal. Cheetal 2007, 44(1-2), 32-7.

Uttaranchal state is a rich repository having large number of medicinal and aromatic plants. The therapeutic value of some of these plants are given in ancient Hindu scriptures. In recent years, man and his livestock have been greatly changing the face of the ecosystem. Deals with the exploitation of ninety one valuable medicinal and aromatic plants, found in the Uttaranchal and it is feared that if biotic pressure on land and resources continue, then there is possibility of extinction of these valuable plants from the natural habitats. It is, therefore, a compelling obligation on the society that this valuable treasure responsible for health and longevity is protected, replenished and sustainably used for socio-economic development of people.

1 table, 5 ref

016130   Kar A;Borthakur S K (NO, Institute of Integrated Resource Management, Science & Technology Sect, Tezpur-784 501, Email: ashishvision10@rediffmail.com) : Wild vegetables sold in local markets of Karbi Anglong, Assam. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(1), 169-72.

The Karbi tribes in Assam utilize many wild plants as vegetables. The papers deals with 29 wild vegetables with their botanical name, local (Karbi) name, brief description of the plant, time of collection, parts used, mode of use, taste, habitat and regeneration, which are used by the tribe and are also sold in markets of Karbi Anglong. The paper also suggests for detailed ethnobotanical studies, documentation of indigenous knowledge and cultivation of wild vegetable, and develop multi-tier wild edible garden to preserve wild vegetables.

2 tables, 19 ref

016129   Kala C P (National Medicinal Plants Board, , Chandralok Building, 36 Janpath, New Delhi-110 001, Email: cpkala@yahoo.co.uk) : Prioritization of cultivated and wild edibles by local people in the Uttaranchal hills of Indian Himalaya. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(1), 239-44.

Deals with the preferences of local communities on the cultivated and wild edible plant species in an Indian Himalayan state, Uttaranchal. The state is comprised of 13 districts, which have 5 major tribal communities (i.e. Bhotiya, Jaunsari, Boksha, Tharu and Raji). The preferences of local people on the cultivated and wild edible plant species varied across the different localities. A total 23 cultivated food crop species and 15 wild edible fruit species were prioritized as the most preferred species by the local people in the study area. Of the prioritized food crops, Triticum aestivum, Oriza saliva, Eluesine coracana, Hordium vulgare and Brassica campestris were common preferences of local people, whereas of the wild edible fruits Myrica esculenta, Berberis asiatica, Rubus ellipticus and Ficus auriculata were the common preferences of local people in Uttaranchal. The preferences for different food plants by the local people are further discussed in the changing socio-cultural and socio-economic context.

1 illus, 3 tables, 23 ref

016128   Jha B N;Sharma G D;Shukla A K (Botany Dep, North Eastern Hill University, Shillong-793 022) : Phosphatase activity of ectomycorrhizal root and nutrient status of pine seedlings under different physical factors. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 561-6.

Phosphatase activity of ectomycorrhizal roots and nutrient status of pine seedlings inoculated with mycorrhizal fungi Collybia radicata, Laccaria laccata, Pisolithus tinctorius and Rhizopogon luteolus was studied under different physical factors namely, temperature, relative humidity and light intensity. Concentration of acid phosphatase activity was always higher than alkaline phosphatase activity. Maximum acid phosphatase was recorded with the roots of seedlings grown at 25°C with high and moderate light intensities. Seedlings with 2P level sets were found to be more efficient in phosphorus absorption under high and moderate light intensities compared to low intensity. Uptake of nitrogen was also more at high and moderate light intensities. In general higher N and P content was found in the seedlings grown at 25°C than 10 °C. Impact of relative humidity was not found showing a definite pattern on N and P concentration in the seedlings.

2 tables, 22 ref

016127   Devender Singh;Jahan T;Shahid Ali;Naqvi Q A (Plant Virology Lab., Botany Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh) : Mosaic disease on launaea (Launaea aspleniifolia Hook F)identified as a distinct virus of potyvirus GP. Natn J Life Sci 2006, 2(1-2), 149-52.

Launaea Mosaic Virus (LaMV) was isolated by a procedure involving extraction in 0.2M phosphate buffer pH 6.8 Containing 0.1% sodium sulphite and 0.1% EDTA. The extract was verified by 30 percent chilled chloroform. The virus was precipitated by 6% PEG and 0.125% NaCl followed by differential centrifugation, linear sucrose columns. Purified virus preparation showed flexuous rods C. 730 nm long and 12 nm wide in the electron microscope. Ultrathin section of LaMV infected Datura metel leaves showed cytoplasmic cylindrical inclusions comprising pinwheels, scrolls and lamellar aggregates. An antiserum was raised against LaMV which had a titre of 1:2048 and the antigen titre of 1:512 as determined by tube precipitin test. In immunosorbent electron microscopy, the maximum trapping and decoration was observed with Datura Leaf Distorsion Virus (DLDV), Peru Tomato Virus (PTV), Papaya Ring Sport Virus (PRSV) and TFV. The LaMV showed close serological relationship with DLDV, PTV and PRSV. On the basis of its characteristics and comparison with serological viruses and RT-PCR the virus causing mosaic viruses and RT-PCR the virus causing mosaic disease on Launaea is identified as a distinct virus of potyvirus group.

4 illus, 10 ref

016126   Deka S J;Sarmah G C;Deka S P (Botany Dep, Gauhati University, Assam) : Plant species used by talung (tribe) for hair care in Morigaon district, Assam, India. Envir Ecol 2006, 24S(1), 234-5.

Deals with the study of plant species used by Lalung (tribe) women in Morigaon district, Assam, for hair care.Using 29 plant species are listed with local name, botanical name, family and parts used. During the study period from January 2004 to 2005 among these plants 5 species were Monocotyledons and 24 species-were Dicotyledons.

1 table, 17 ref

016125   Das A K;Khumbongmayum A D (Centre of Biodiversity, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Itanagar-791 112, Email: arupbot@rediffmail.com) : Galeola falconeri Hook.f., an endangered giant saprophytic orchid. Curr Sci 2006, 91(7), 871-3.

^ssc1 illus, 11 ref

016124   Chauhan K S (NO, , ) : Unique medicinal mushroom cordyceps sinensis. Cheetal 2007, 44(1-2), 21-4.

016123   Bhaumik M;Mao A A;Naithani H B (Botanical Survey of India, , Eastern Circle, Laitumkarah, Shillong, Meghalaya) : Sporadic flowering of Sinarundinaria rolloana *Gamble) chao & renv. (Poaceae-bambusoideae) from Dzuko valley, Nagaland. Indian For 2006, 132(7), 906-7.

^ssc1 illus, 2 ref

016122   Bhaumik M;Mao A A;Naithani H B (Botanical Survey of India, , Eastern Circle, Laitumkarah, Shillong (Meghalaya)) : Sporadic flowering of Sinarundinaria rolloana (Gamble) Chao & Renv. (Poaceae-Bambusoideae) from Dzuko valley, Nagaland. Indian For 2006, 132(7), 906-7.

1 illus, 2 ref

016121   Barua U;Hore D K;Sarma R (NBPGR Regional Station, , Umiam-793 103) : Wild edible plants of Majuli island and Darrang districts of Assam. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(1), 191-4.

Brahmaputra valley of Assam is very unique in its plant bioresources and is inhabited by different communities. Besides the cultivated crops, they are also dependent on various wild plants, which are used for consumption as well as in ethnomedicine. The paper deals with 38 wild edible plants of Majuli island and Darrang districts.

1 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

016120   Bargali K (Botany Dep, DSB Campus, K.U. Nainital-263 002) : Response of Indigofera heterantha seedlings to inoculation with vesiculr-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2006, 76(4), 373-6.

Vesicular Arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi are being used as biofertilizer to increase the yield. The effect of VAM inoculation on growth performance of Indigofera heterantha at seedling stage was analysed. VAM fungi inoculation resulted in 1.9 cm increment in root length, 5.9 cm increment in shoot length and 0.04 cm increment in root collor diameter. With increasing time the positive effect of VAM fungi inoculation also increased. Seedlings of I. heterantha showed 62% mycorrhizal dependency for dry mass production.

1 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

016119   Ballabh B;Chaurasia O P;Pande P C;Ahmed Z (Field Research Laboratory, Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir) : Raw edible plants of cold desert Ladakh. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(1), 182-4.

Describes 31 plants species belonging to 15 families, used as raw edibles by the tribal communities of Ladakh region. Various plant parts, viz. bulbs, roots, leaves, leaf-stalks, fruits and seeds used in different ways such as edibles fruits, Chutnies, edibles in salads and used for flavouring food products are discribed. In far-flung areas where, there is no communication available, the tribal communities are still dependant on wild resources for fulfilling their daily needs.

7 ref

016118   Augustine J;Krishnan P G (Botany Dep, St. Thomas College, Pala, Kerala) : Status of the black dammer tree (Canarium strictum roxb.) in Periyar Tiger Reserve, Kerala and the uses of black dammar. Indian For 2006, 132(10), 1329-35.

Periyar Tiger Reserve with more than 62% the tropical evergreen forests is the largest protected area in Kerala state. It is the ideal habitat of the black dammar tree, Canarium strictum Roxb. (Burseraceae). People living in the vicinity of the tiger reserve especially on the Tamil Nadu side heavily subject the population of this tree for the extraction of black dammar. The present status of the black dammar tree including its population structure in the tiger reserve was studied and it was found that the population is in a declining phase with fewer juvenile ones. There are six different kinds of use identified for Black dammar.

3 tables, 19 ref

016117   Arora A;Singh V P (Division of Plant Pathology, Indian Agricultural Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: romiarora@yahoo.com) : Polyols regulate the flower senescence by delaying programmed cell death in Gladiolus. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2006, 15(2), 139-42.

Programmed cell death (PCD) is associated with petal senescence, but little is known about the triggering or execution of the process of cell death in petals. In the study, membrane disruption and DNA fragmentation, events characteristic of PCD, were found to be present in the advanced stage of petal senescence studied with ethylene-insensitive flowers of gladiolus, indicating that plant and animal cell death phenomena share one of the molecular events in the execution phase. When the gladiolus florets were treated with inositol both wilting and DNA fragmentation of petals were suppressed/ delayed. The study has provided the initial evidence that inositol has an inhibitory/suppressive effect on apoptotic cell death.

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

016116   Arinathan V;Mohan V R;John De Britto A; Murugan C (Botany Research Laboratory, VO Chidambaram College, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu) : Wild edibles used by Palliyars of the western ghats, Tamil Nadu. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(1), 163-8.

Survey of wild edible food plants was undertaken and about 171 species belonging to 67 families were selected and documented from different settlements of Palliyars in the Southeastern slopes of the western Ghats, Tamil Nadu. Plant species with their family names, vernacular names and plant parts used are tabulated.

1 table, 14 ref

016115   Ali M S;Manoj Kumar;Singh R (Forestry Dep, Rajendra Agricultural University, Pusa-848 125) : Host range of Oxyrachis tarandus fabricus (Homoptera : membracidae) in woody trees and shrubs of Bihar. Envir Ecol 2006, 24S(1), 14-16.

Host range of oxyrachis tarandus fabricus on different growth stages of woody perennials in Pusa -Dholi areas of North Bihar during 1995-2002 showed periodic high seasonal occurrence of nymphs and adults on different growth components of A. nilotica A. catechu. A. auriculariformis. A. procera. A. lebbeck, D. latifolia. S. fistula, C. siamea, F. religiosa, F. bengalensis, T. nudiflora, M. alba, S. grandiflora, S.agyptica, D. latifolia and low to sparce occurence of the pests on B. monosperrma, A.indica, R. communis, Z. jujuba, B. purpurea, J.curcus between january to december. Occurence of the pest on sampling stages of A. nilotica, A. catechu, T. grandis, S. agyptica, F. religiosa, P. cineraia and C. cimea was observed highly susceptible to the pest, hence the species weere more susceptible than others showing irregular high occurence of the pest.

1 table, 9 ref

014941   Vanitha C;Ramamoorthy K;Sivasubramaniam K (Seed Science and Technology Unit, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai-625 104) : Determination of physiological maturity for higher seed quality in chicory (Cichorium intybus L) cv. kalpa. Seed Res 2006, 34(1), 98-100.

2 tables, 9 ref

014940   Thoyalaksha;Ravishankar Rai V (Studies in Applied Botany Dep, Biotechnology Univ of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: rrai33@hotmail.com) : In vitro multiplication of Amomum microstephanum Baker - an endangered species. Phytomorphology 2006, 56(1-2), 23-8.

High frequency micropropagation of Amomum microstephanum, listed in Red Data Book of India was obtained by culturing small and active rhizome buds on MS medium supplemented with 2mg/l BA and 3% sucrose. A high rate of multiplication of well-developed plantlets (14 shoots per bud) was obtained on this medium after 6 weeks of culture. The regenerated shoots rooted on MS medium containing l.0mg/1 IAA and 3% sucrose per liter. The multiplication rate did hot decrease even upto 12 months of subculture on the same medium. A simple method of successfully transferring more than 95% of tissue-cultured plants into pots was also standardized. In vitro derived plants performed well under polyhouse conditions and were morphologically identical to the mother plant.

1 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

014939   Thombre M V;Deshmukh S U (Ajeet Seeds Ltd., , Chitegaon, Aurangabad-431 105) : Isolation of genetic male sterile mutant in okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench.]. Indian J Genet Pl Breed 2006, 66(4), 353-4.

2 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

014938   Thind S K;Chanpreet;Sharma K (Botany Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 001) : Cytosolute accumulation in water-stressed seedlings of mungbean CVS. (Vigna radiata linn.) as affected by pretreatment with fluridone and paclobutrazol. Crop Improv 2006, 33(1), 62-6.

Mungbean (Vigna radiata Linn) cultivar, ML 267 and summer mung cultivar SML 134 were pretreated with fluridone (10 mg I??-1) and paclobutrazol (10 mg l^-1). Water stress (-0.4 MPa) conditions were induced by using polyethylene glycol (PEG-6000). The accumulation of cytosolutes when exposed to moderate stress (-0.4 MPa) and after pretreatment with fluridone and paclobutrazol was variable. In control, total soluble protein content was more in ML 267 than in SML 134. Fluridone and paclobutrazol pretreatment significantly increased soluble protein content of seedlings in control as well as stress conditions. Imposition of water stress decreased starch content in both cultivars. Soluble sugar accumulation was significantly increased under stress conditions and fluridone pretreatment further increased it. Paclobutrazol application increased starch but decreased soluble sugar content in seedlings of all cultivars studied presently. ML 267 accumulated more free sugars and proteins under stress than in SML 134, and fluridone pretreatment further increased cytosolute accumulation.

3 tables, 15 ref

014937   Tandon P;Rathore T S;Kumaria S (Botany Dep, Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, North-Eastern Hill Univ, Shillong-793 022) : Micropropagation of Coptis teeta wall.-threatened medicinal plant of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Indian J Biotechnol 2007, 6(2), 280-2.

Multiple shoots were produced from axillary buds with rhizome parts from mature plants of Coptis teeta on 1/2 strength Murashige & Skoog's (MS) nutrient salts medium containing 4.42 μM benzylamino purine+0.56 μM indole-3-acetic acid. Isolated shoots were rooted on 1/2 strength MS medium supplemented with 7.35 μM indole-3-butyric acid. Plantlets were also regenerated directly from rhizome segments cultured on Gamborg's medium containing 2.31 μM kinetin+0.56 μM indole-3-acetic acid. Regenerated plantlets were hardened and established in the glass house.

2 tables, 13 ref

014936   Sitaramam V (Biotechnology Dep, Pune Univ, Pune-411 007, Email: sitaram@unipune.ernet.in) : Common fallacies in plant physiology in understanding osmotolerance : newer methodology to define the phenotype. Physiol molec Biol Pl 2006, 12(2), 107-23.

Osmotolerance implies the ability to grow at larger osmolalities, in relation to drought and salinity tolerance of cultivars. Definition of the phenotype for osmotolerance remained elusive since hypotheses for osmotolerance based on remedial osmolyte accumulation were neither universal among plants nor generally successful in generating useful varieties. There exist specific assumptions underlying the current hypothesis for osmotolerance in plants, which are untrue. Traces these errors, both theoretical and analytical, systematically, and demonstrate alternative approaches which are both physically and statistically correct. Since (i) growth at all osmolalities is often difficult to measure, (ii) respiration is a prerequisite for aerobic growth in all life stages and (iii) respiration is universally inhibited by osmotic pressure, the minimal osmotic pressure at which respiration ceases offered a plausible approach to quantitatively evaluate osmotolerance. Developes a biological, energetics-based measure for the phenotype for osmotolerance in plants and cultivars. The phenotype is defined and measured as the limiting osmotic pressure at which growth'and/or its source for energy, e.g., respiration, ceases. The novel method is based on measurements of rates of respiration in tissues in plants or germinating seeds in cultivars and analysis of this non-linear data by specially developed spline regression techniques for this purpose.

7 illus, 100 ref

014935   Singh S P;Singh J P (Horticulture Dep, Allahabad Agriculture, Institute-Deemed Univ, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Variability, heritability and scope of improvement for yield components in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench). Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 154-5.

Sixty-four diverse okra genotypes were evaluated for genotypic and phenotypic variability, heritability and genetic advance in ten quantitative characters. Considerable amount of genetic variability was exhibited by number of the branches per plant, fruit yield per plant, tapering length, plant height and fruit length. The closer magnitude of gcv and pcv indicated that greater magnitude was played by genotype rather than environment. The heritability estimates were high for days to first flower, first fruiting node length. The genetic advance and heritability suggested that the characters such as first fruiting node length, number of the branches per plant, tapering length and fruit yield per plant were under additive gene effects.

1 table, 8 ref

014934   Shukla S K;Shukla S;Koche V;Mishra S K (PTC Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pt Ravishankar Shukla Univ, Raipur-492 010, Email: shuklashivkant@yahoo.co.in) : In vitro propagation of tikhur (Curcuma angustifolia roxb.): a starch yielding plant. Indian J Biotechnol 2007, 6(2), 274-6.

In vitro regeneration of Curcuma angustifolia Roxb. was achieved through shoot meristem culture. The shoot buds (2-3 cm long) from rhizome were inoculated on MS medium supplemented with 3.0 mg/L BAP for initiation and elongation of shoots. As a result, 1.87±0.28 shoots per explant were produced These shoots were transferred on MS medium supplemented with 3.0 mg/L BAP and 25 mg/L adenine sulfate for further shoot multiplication. About 6.9±0.69 micro-shoots per explant were produced with in 6 wk. The roots appeared from shoots on shoot establishment as well as multiplication media. The rooted plants were transferred to pots and acclimatized, which showed 83% survival with normal growth.

1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

014933   Shukla S (Botany Dep, Dr. Harisingh Gour Univ, Sagar, Madhya Pradesh) : Antidiabetic potential of medicinal plants. Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 347-8.

Since ancient times plants have been exemplary sources of medicine. Ayurveda and other Indian literature mention the use of plants in the treatment of various human ailments. India has about 45000 plant species and among them, several thousands have been claimed to possess medicinal properties. Researches conducted in last few decades on plants mentioned in ancient literature or used traditionally for diabetes have shown antidiabetic property. The present article reviews some such plants and their products (active, natural principles and crude extracts) that have been mentioned/used in the Indian traditional system of medicine and have shown experimental or clinical antidiabetic activity.

^iia21 ref

014932   Shukla C;Saxena O P (Boatny Department, Seed Biology Laboroatry, University School of Sciences, Gujrat University, Ahmedabad-380 009, Email: opsaxena@hotmail.com) : Characterization of parents and hybrid of cotton on the basis of morphological and molecular markers. J Pl Biol 2005, 32(3), 205-10.

The morphological studies at 7-days and 21-days clearly identified parents and hybrid of cotton and saved lot of time, space, labour and money, and at 80-days stage, when grow-out test was conducted, parameters included along with vegetative, reproductive characters too very distinct and marked. In the RAPD-PCR analysis, the bands showed polymorphism and also in many cases differed in their intensities, and also provided a good tool for cultivar identification at molecular level.

11 illus, 4 tables, 16 ref

014931   Sharma S B;Rana A;Chauhan S V S (Botany Dep, School of Life Sciences, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Univ, Agra-282 002, Email: svs250@rediffmail.com) : Morphological changes in floral parts of Crataeva religiosa Forst. induced by Neolasioptera crataevae Mani. Phytomorphology 2006, 56(1-2), 93-100.

Neolasioptera crataevae Mani. (order-Diptera) induces galls in the floral parts of Crataeva religiosa Forst. an important ornamental tree of family Capparidaceae. Galls either develop from the young meristematic tissue of the thalamus and grow towards the floral components or may develop directly from component parts of the flower. The infestation is usually not uniform as is evident by the presence of normal, semi-abnormal and abnormal floral parts in the same flower. Anther filaments are reduced to various lengths and become swollen. Anther lobes attached to them are either normal in appearance or enlarge in size. There is a reduction in the number of pollen grains per anther and fertility to various degrees. The development of anther in normal, semi-abnormal and abnormal stamens is quite variable and exhibit various abnormalities. The pistils become globular and lobed with a reduction in the number of ovules.

3 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

014930   Sharma M M;Khanna P;Pareek M;Batra A (Department of Boatny, Biotechnology Laboratory, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004) : Rapid in vitro plant regeneration from nodal segments of Vitex negundo L.- a woody medicinal shurb. J Pl Biol 2005, 32(3), 221-4.

Multiple shoot induction in Vitex negundo L. was achieved from nodal explants on Murashige and Skoog's (MS) medium fortified with 6 mg/1 BAP. The shoots were subcultured after three weeks of inoculation for elongation on the same medium supplemented with gib-bercllic acid (2 mg/1). Elongated shoots were excised and subcultured for rooting on half strength MS medium fortified with NAA (1.5 mg/1). The in vitro regenerated plantlets were successfully acclimatized in pots containing vermiculite and soil (1:3), with the survival rate of 80-85%.

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

014929   Sharma M M;Jalootharia D;Khanna P;Batra A (Botany Dep, Univ of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004, Email: madanmohan10@yahoo.com) : Efficient in vitro mass propagation of a medicinally potent plant species Vitex negundo L. via nodal segments. Phytomorphology 2006, 56(1-2), 35-9.

A rapid clonal propagation system has been developed for medicinally potent tree species-Vitex negundo L. through in vitro culture of mature nodal explants. Multiple shoots were induced on Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with varying concentrations of cytokinin alone. Maximum number of shoots (8.5±1.195) were developed on MS medium fortified with 6 mg/l benzyl aminopurine. These multiple shoots were subcultured after three weeks of inoculation for shoot elongation on the same medium augmented with gibberellic acid (2.0 mg/l). In vitro raised elongated shoots (<62>7.5cm) from the cluster were excised and transferred on rooting medium (half strength Murashige and Skoog's medium) fortified with 0.5 mg/l indole-3-butyric acid. These rooted shoots were successfully acclimatized in pots containing vermi-compost and sterilised soil (1 :3), after 15 days, these plantlets were finally transferred to environment with 75% survival rate.

2 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

014928   Sharma G L;Agarwal R M;Singh R P (School of Studies in Botany, Jiwaji Univ, Gwalior) : Potassium induced changes in certain aspects of nitrogen metabolism in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Physiol molec Biol Pl 2006, 12(2), 157-62.

Potassium treatments led to increased free proline contents, more so when potassium was used as KNO₃. A decrease in glutamic and aspartic acid content was noticed with potassium treatments indicating their efficient utilization. Potassium treatments resulted in altered aspartate aminotransferase activity leading to greater Synthesis of aspartat which probably is incorporated into asparagine as is evident by increased asparagine contents. Increased potassium supply brings about improved utilization of nitrogen as is reflected by soil nitrogen analysis. Percentage potassium contents of roots and leaves of plants treated with different potassium salts well correlates with potassium treatments. The results obtained may help us gaining better understanding about the role of Na/K ratio under salinity and water stress conditions in addition to providing basic data.

2 illus, 4 tables, 33 ref

014927   Senthil Kumar M;Rao M V (Plant Science Dep, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan Univ, Tiruchirappalli-620 024, Email: mvrao_456@yahoo.co.in) : In vitro micropropagation of Heliotropium indicum Linn.-an ayurvedic herb. Indian J Biotechnol 2007, 6(2), 245-9.

Efficient micropropagation method was developed for Heliotropium indicum, an Ayurvedic medicinal herb, using apical and axillary bud explants. The highest number of shdots (32.6 shoots/apical bud and 20.2 shoots/axillary bud) was yielded after 30 d of culture in the MS medium supplemented with Kn (1.0 mg L^-1), BA (0.5 mg L^-1) and IAA (0.05 mg L^-1). The cluster of proliferated shoots elongated simultaneously on the same medium. High frequency of rooting (85%) was obtained in both apical and axillary bud derived shoots when transferred to half-strength MS medium supplemented with IB A (0.1 mg L^-1). Rooted plants were hardened and successfully established in field conditions.

8 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

014926   Satya Narain;Kanchan Lata, (Duthie Herbarium, Botany Dep, University of Allahabad, Allahabad) : Additions to the family asteraceae in flora of Gorakhpur. Indian For 2006, 132(11), 1504-8.

13 ref

014925   Saravanan T (Agricultural Botany Dep, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002) : Genetic correlation and causation among earliness characters in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 325-8.

Objective of this investigation was to study the genetic correlation and causation among nine earliness traits of six desirable lines crossed in a diallel fashion. Studies on genetic correlation and causation in parents alone and parents plus hybrids revealed the superiority of height of first flowering node in earliness breeding programme. Among the eight independent variables, it contributed maximum positive direct effect towards days to 50 per cent flowering and through these traits only six out of the seven traits exerted their maximum positive indirect effect towards days to 50 per cent flowering. On the other hand, the studies on genetic correlation and causation in hybrids alone portrayed the superiority of height of first fruiting node in earliness breeding programme. Among the eight independent variables, it contributed maximum positive direct effect towards days to 50 per cent flowering and through these traits only five out of the seven traits exerted their maximum positive indirect effect towards days to 50 per cent flowering.

2 tables, 6 ref

014924   Sarafis V;Heintzmann R;Karnieli A (NO, Institute of Physical Bilogy, Univ of South Bohemia Zamek 136, Nove Hardy 37333 CZ, Email: karnieli@bgumail.bgu.ac.il) : Visualizing gyanobacteria in soil crusts from a semi-arid environment using confocal fluorescence imaging. Phytomorphology 2006, 56(1-2), 65-8.

Confocal fluorescence imaging of samples of biological soil crusts from an arid zone yields a three dimensional view of the distribution of cyanobacteria within the crusts. The permeation of the crusts by oil immersion enables a clear view of their interior. Results show clusters of coccoid and filamentous cells within the crusts.

2 illus, 13 ref