004387   Kamble S (Dep of Bot, Phulsing Naik Mahavidyalaya, Pusad, District Yavatmal, Maharashtra) : Effect of herbicide glyphosate on pollen germination in vitro and pollen tube length of Hibiscus cannabinus Linn. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2005, 3(2), 335-40.

The germination of pollen grains in various concentrations of herbicide was studied by adopting "Hanging drop technique" (Vasil, 1960). Effect of herbicide on pollen germination and pollen tube length was studied. Glyphosate inhibited the pollen germination and pollen tube growth at higher concentrations. The percentage of pollen germination was decreased from 29.29, 23.74, 11.49, 3.94 and 0.0 at 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 ppm of glyphosate, respectively. Similarly, the pollen tube length was also declined and which was recorded from 373.7, 212.1, 80.8, 40.4 and 0.0 microns of Glyphosate at 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 ppm of glyphosate, respectively. The bursting of pollen tubes at their tips were observed at higher concentrations of the herbicide.

6 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

004386   Kale J K (Maharashtra St Grp Growers' Ass, , Draksha Bhawan, E-4, Gultekdi, Pune-411 037) : Growth and sporulation of Aspergillus niger on seeds of groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) in relation to H<. Indian J Pl Path 2005, 23(1-2), 63-65.

The seeds of groundnut due to high protein content attract a large number of fungi, many of which like Aspergillus niger are pathogenic, causing major loss in germination, crop status and productivity. The pH of Richard's medium was adjusted from 3.0 to 10.0 at an interval of one unit to evaluate the best medium reaction for growth of pathogenic fungi Aspergillus niger. Solid and liquid media with pH ranging from 4.0 to 6.0 provided luxuriant growth, while alkaline reaction from 8.0 to 9.0 and higher were not found suitable.

2 tables, 8 ref

004385   Joshi P C (Dep of Zool and Envir Sci, Gurukula Kangri Univ, Hardwar-249 404, Email: prakash127@yahoo.com) : Anthropogenic encroachments and population dynamics of insects in a moist deciduous forest in Uttaranchal, India. J appl Biosci 2006, 32(1), 32-7.

The species composition and community structure of insect fauna vis-a-vis various anthropogenic activities in selected habitats of a moist deciduous forest in Uttaranchal, India were studied for a period of two years. Four sites situated at an altitude ranging between 260 to 480 m from mean sea level with a range of anthropogenic activities, viz. a site with no ongoing disturbances, a naturally recovering site (deforested and replanted 25 years back), a moderately disturbed site (lightly grazed by cattle) and a severely disturbed site (artificially reforested and heavily grazed by live stock) were selected. The former three sites were mixed forests, dominated by Shorea robusta Gaertn. F and Mallotus philippinensis Muell-Arg., and the latter site was a plantation of Tectona grandis Linn. F. All these sites supported a total of 150 species of insects belonging to 48 families and 9 orders. Order Lepidoptera was the most dominant order in terms of number of species and number of individuals recorded. Eurema hecabe Linnaeus was the most abundant species. The other abundant species included Catopsila pomona Fabricius (Lepidoptera), Crocothemis servilia (Drury) (Odonata), Mylarbis sp. (Heteroptera), Catantops humilis humili Serv. and Oxya velox Fabricius (Orthoptera). Udaspes folus Cramer (Lepidoptera: Hesperidae) was the most rare species recorded from the naturally recovering site with no ongoing disturbances. The diversity, evenness, and richness of the sites tracked the intensity of the disturbances, the greatest value being associated with undisturbed site, followed by the naturally recovering site, the moderately disturbed site and, severely disturbed site. In all ecological measures, the effects of disturbances were much greater than the changes associated with seasonality. Thus it appears that insect communities are sensitive to anthropogenic disturbances and their community structure may be a viable diagnostic tool in assessing environmental conditions.

1 table, 36 ref

004384   Jayalakshmi D;Nagarajan K;Sinha K K (NO, Cent Tobacco Res Inst (ICAR), Rajahmundry) : Survey of stored tobacco samples of government warehouses and private godowns for the incidence of various mycoflora. Indian J Pl Path 2005, 23(1-2), 95-100.

Government warehouses and private godowns to list the incidence of various mycoflora on stored tobacco leaves, two varieties Hema (flue-cured Virginia) and Natu (sun-cured) were taken. Of the FCV tobacco samples tested 22% were found to be mouldy, of which Aspergillus group was the most dominant. From this group A. flavus recorded the highest incidence (98.2%). Among the samples of Natu, 23% samples exhibited the mycoflora, the most predominant being Aspergillus flavus (93.7%). In FCV the percentage of infested samples are more in NBS when compared to that of CBS, SLS and NLS. The percentage of infested samples in irrigated Natu and rainfed Natu were at par.

5 tables, 16 ref

004383   Ignacimuthu S;Arockiasamy S (NO, Ent Res Inst Loyola Coll, Chennai-600 034, Email: eri_1c@hotmail.com) : Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of an elite indica rice for insect resistance. Curr Sci 2006, 90(6), 829-35.

In India, rice occupies the largest area among all crops and accounts for as much as 21% of the total cropped area. Rice plants are prone to attack from many pests and pathogens. Among them coleopteran pests are well known for causing extensive damage. Sitophilus oryzae causes severe damage to rice seeds during storage. Alpha amylase inhibitor gene isolated from Phaseolus vulgaris seeds was introduced into Basmati rice (PB1) through Agrobacterium -mediated transformation. A total of 174 hygromycin-resistant plants were regenerated. Most of these plants were GUS-positive. PCR analysis and Southern hybridization confirmed the presence of 4.9 kb alpha amylase inhibitor gene in transformed plants. Western blot confirmed presence of alpha amylase inhibitor protein.

5 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

004382   Handa A;Bhardwaj S V;Chowla S C;Kapoor P (Dep of Mycol and Pl Path, Dr.Y.S. Parmar Univ of Hort and For, Nauni, Solan-173 230) : Characterization of a noval potyvirus infecting hot peppers. Indian J Pl Path 2005, 23(1-2), 52-4.

On the basis of host range, behaviour in sap and serology a mosaic disease complex of hot pepper (Capsicum annuum) was found to be caused by a distinct polyvirus in Himachal Pradesh. The virus was transmitted through sap and aphid vectors Myzus persicae and Aphis craccivora to some members of the family Solanaceae only. The virus had a TIP between 55-60°C, DEP between 10^-3-10^-4 and LIV between 7-9 days at room temperature and 13-15 days under refrigeration. Penicillinase (PNC) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) based direct antigen coating (DAC)-ELISA systems failed to establish serological relationship between the causal virus and some members of the potyvirus group viz., bean common mosaic virus (BCMV), bean yellow mosaic virus (BYMV), peanut mottle virus (PMV) and pea seed borne mosaic virus (PSbMV) indicating thereby that the present isolate is serologically unrelated to these viruses and is a distinct potyvirus. Electron microscope studies also confirmed the findings.

3 tables, 7 ref

004381   Geetha M;Shankar M B;Mehta R S;Saluja A K (NO, A.R. Coll of Pharm and G.H. Patel Inst of Pharm, P O Box No. 19, Vallabh Vidyanagar-388 120, Email: mbs_mg@yahoo.co.in) : Antifertility acitvity of Artabotrys odoratissimus Roxb. and Couroupita guianensis Aubl. J nat Remedies 2005, 5(2), 121-5.

Antifertility activity of various extracts of A. odoratissimus Roxb. and C. guianensis Aubl. Antifertility activity of benzene, ethanol and water extracts of leaves of A. odoratissimus and bark and flowers of C. guianensis was studied for their effect on duration of various stages of oestrus cycle in adult female rats and on the number implantation sites in the pregnant rats. All the extracts of A. odoratissimus leaf and ethanol and water extracts of C. guianensis bark and flower showed significant prolongation of dioestrus stage (p<60>0.05). Ethanol and water extracts of A. odoratissimus leaf showed anti-implantation effect. Ethanol extract of C. guianensis bark and all the extracts of its flower reduced the number of implantations. The disturbances in the reproductive cycle indicate effect of these plants on the sex hormones in the animals. Prevention of implantation may be due their interference in the receptive stage of the uteri and endometrial sensitivity for decidualisation. The results suggest that the both plants are having antifertility activity and possible therapeutic use.

2 tables, 9 ref

004380   Dinakaran D;Sachithanantham K;Nainamohammed S E (Regional Res Stn (TNAU), , Vriddhachalam-606 001) : Screening of sesame genotypes against root rot pathogen, Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) Goid. Indian J Pl Path 2005, 23(1-2), 66-8.

A total of 1300 sesame germplasm accessions maintained at Regional Research Station, Vriddhachalam were screened for their reaction to root rot pathogen, Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) Goid under field conditions consecutively for four seasons in kharif and rabi/summer during 1995 and 1996. Three accessions viz., ORM 7, ORM 14 and ORM 17, showing resistant reaction over seasons were further evaluated with other three susceptible checks viz., TMV 3, Co 1 and VRI 1 at fortnightly intervals from June 1997 to May 1998. The accessions recorded a mean disease incidence of 5.0, 5.2 and 4.2 percent, respectively as against 30.1, 30.8 and 38.7 percent, respectively in the aforesaid checks. Screening of these accessions under artificially inoculated pot culture conditions during rabi 1999-2000 exhibited resistant reaction consistently recording 10.0, 9.1 and 8.3 per cent incidence of root rot as against 66.7, 70.0 and 91.7 per cent in checks.

3 tables, 9 ref

004379   Devy M S;Davidar P (NO, Ashoka Trust for Res in Ecology and the Envir (Atree), Hebbal, Bangalore-560 024, Email: pdavidar@yahoo.com) : Breeding systems and pollination modes of understorey shrubs in a medium elevation wet evergreen forest, Southern Western Ghats, India. Curr Sci 2006, 90(6), 838-42.

Reproductive biology and pollination modes of 22 species of understorey shrubs in 11 families was conducted in a medium elevation wet evergreen forest in the southern Western Ghats of India from 1994 to 1997. Author evaluated whether this assemblage was predominantly outerossing as in other tropical forests, and whether mating systems are related to pollination mode. Author assessed whether species were hermaphrodites, dioecious or monecious. Assessed the breeding systems of each species with hand self-pollinations. About 55% of the species produced small white and inconspicuous flowers. The majority of the flowers opened at dawn and was visited by diurnal pollinators. The proportion of dioecious and monoecious species was lower than for other tropical forests. Among the hermaphrodites, the majority had mixed mating systems. Therefore the overall levels of obligate outcrossers (37%) were low compared with other tropical forests. Recognized 7 pollination modes: social bees, solitary bees, diverse insects, flies, sunbird, sphingid moth and Xylocopa sp. Among these the social bees, flies and diverse insects visited more species than the other groups. Species pollinated by flies and diverse insects tended to be significantly more outcrossing than those pollinated by bees and other solitary pollinators.

1 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

004378   Devaraju ;Patil M S;Basavrajappa M P;Kulkarni V (Dep of Pl Path, Univ of Agric Sci, Dharwad-580 005) : Survey for incidence of potato viral diseases in Karnataka. Indian J Pl Path 2005, 23(1-2), 88-91.

Potato is the most important commercial vegetable crop cultivated in Karnataka. Among viral diseases mosaic and leaf roll are most common. The survey was conducted during kharif 1999 and summer 2000 for the incidence of viral diseases in Hassan and Kolar Districts. The average incidence ranged from 4.20 to 66.75%. The incidence of severe mosaic ranged from trace to 36.00% and that of leaf roll from 4.20 to 40.7% in both Hassan and Kolar districts. The incidence of mild mosaic virus was not noticed in both the districts.

3 tables, 8 ref

004377   Dayaram ;Kumar M;Sharma S;Chaturvedi O P (Dep of Microbiol, Rajendra Agric Univ, Pusa (Samastipur)-848 125) : Variability among different isolates of Fusarium solani causing shisham mortality in Bihar. Indian J Pl Path 2005, 23(1-2), 139-40.

^ssc1 table, 5 ref

004376   Chauhan A S (Dep of Bot, Sch of Life Sci Dr.B.R. Ambedkar Univ, Khandari Campus, Agra-282 002) : Biosystematic studies of cucurbitaceae in Mainpuri district of U.P.. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2005, 3(2), 403-6.

The biosystematic studies of seeds on cultivated crops of family Cucurbitaceae in different areas of Manipur district of Uttar Pradesh. The Rm values of isoesterage and peroxidase are discussed in different species of Cucurbitaceae in Mainpuri district of U.P. Rm values of Cucurbita species showed a great differentiation of isoesterase and peroxidase has four bands, whenever 6-8 bands have esterase pattern, Cucurbita pepo and Cucurbita moschata have high intense while Cucumis memordica and Cucumis melo have low intense whenever Cucumis sativus have moderate intense. Lufta cylindnca and Luffa acutangula have five bands, Luffa acutangula is high intense from Luffa cylenidrica. Lagenaria species (Long, Kamandal and been lauki) have been carried out that been and kamandal lauki have great intense from long lauki. Citrullus valgaris and Citrullus fistulosus have low intensive seen with high Rm value. Coccinia species and Trichosanthes species have high intensive and 5 to 7 bands are present in these species.

14 ref

004375   Chauhan A S (Dep of Bot, Sch of Life Sci Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Univ, Khandari Campus, Agra-282 002) : Cytogenetics study and uses of Cucumis species (Cucurbitaceae) in Mainpuri District (U.P.). Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2005, 3(2), 379-82.

Cucumis species (Cucurbiatace) are annual monoecious or biannual herbaceous clumbing plants and have rich in minerals and vitamins were collected from Mainpuri district (U.P.). Cucumis sativus have 7 pairs of chromosomes, while Cucumis melo and Cucumis momordica have 12 pairs of chromosomes. Fruits are used as salad, jams and vegetables purposes. Chromosomes pairs are represented in indiogram. The presence of chromosomes may be a reliable cytogenetic information for the screening and frequency. All these species of Cucumis showed the frequencies of half chiasma per chromosome. Anthers were stained by aceto-carmine for mitotic study and meristematic cells were scored. Root tips slides screened to determine the frequency of miotic division of the Cucumis species.

14 ref

004374   Chaudhary B L;Bhansali E (Dep of Bot, M.L. Sukhadia Univ, Udaipur-313 001) : Lantana camara Linn extract inhibits the regeneration of Physcomitrium japonicum (HEDW.) Mitt. leaf. Biochem Cell Archs 2006, 6(1), 161-4.

Bryophyte is an important component of ecosystem. Attempt to study effect of various allelochemicals present in Lantana camara on regeneration of common lawn moss Physcomitrium japonicum. Maximum inhibition was observed in leaf extract followed by stem and root extract. Gamoetophore and protonema filaments regenerate more quickly from basal than that of apical and middle respectively.

2 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

004373   Chaitra J;Vinod M S;Sharma N;Hittalmani S; Shashidhar H E (Dep of Genet and Pl Breed, Univ of Agric Sciences,GKVK, Bangalore-560 065) : Validation of markers linked to maximum root length in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Curr Sci 2006, 90(6), 835-8.

Root characters/traits are difficult to record and require destructive sampling of the plants. DNA-based molecular markers represent a non-destructive method for gathering information regarding the root characteristics. Two root length specific markers, BH14 and RM201 were utilized to determine the maximum root length of 81 diverse genotypes. Polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed all deep-rooted cultivars amplifying 1.57 kb and 140 bp band and shallow-rooted cultivars 1.40 kb and 158 bp band for BH14 and RM201, respectively. Single marker analysis statistically linked the markers to maximum root length, BH14 (R² 22.24%, P = 0.0001) and RM201 (R² 14.62%, P = 0.0004).

1 illus, 1 tables, 16 ref

004372   Biswas S N (Forensic Sci Lab (M.U.), , Rajnandgaon-491 441) : Comparative studies on plants as bioindicator for Cu, Co, Ni, Pb, Zn, Cr, Fe, Mn, F and K₂O in lead-zinc-fluorite mine area of Chandidongri, distt. Rajnandgaon (C.G.), India. Asian J Chem 2006, 18(2), 991-6.

Studies were carried out on twelve tree species, viz., Azadirachta indica Adr. Juss., Buchanania lanzan Spreng, Cassia fistula L., Chloroxylon swietenia D.C., Ficus glomerata Roxb., Ficus retusa L., Holdenia cordifolia (Roxb.) Ridsd., Lagerstroemia parviflora Roxb., Madhuca indica J. Gmelin., Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb., Semecarpus anacardium L. and Stereospermum sauveolens D.C. in lead-zinc-fluorite mining area in Chandidongri district, Rajnandgaon. The concentration of the elements, viz., Cu, Co, Ni, Pb, Zn, Cr, Fe, Mn, F and K₂O, were estimated from washed plant leaves and young twig samples which were collected from mineralized and nonmineralized areas. Chemical analysis of plants showed higher elemental concentrations for Cu, Co, Ni, Zn, Cr, Fe, Mn, F and K₂O in comparison with the nonmineralized area plants and elemental composition of uncontaminated angiospermic plant tissues. The growth, distribution and toxic effects of plants of the mine area may be influenced by subsurface geology, reflecting the accumulation and toxic level of these elements.

4 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

004371   Billaiya S K (NO, Tribal Agric Res Stn, Dindori-481 880) : Assessment of genotype-environmental interactions for selection of stable genotypes in kodo millet. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2005, 3(2), 415-16.

Nine geographically diverse genotypes of kodo millet were tested in six environments to judge the stability in days to maturity and grain yield. The differences among genotypes and environments were highly significant. DPS 141, DPS 34 and DPS 48 were early in maturity, high yielder, average responsive and stable. GPUK3 and RBK 148 were early average yielder and responsive to stress environment. These genotypes can be used in breeding programme for genetic improvement in grain yield with wider adaptability in kodo millet.

2 tables, 3 ref

004370   Bhojak N;Lavi Kumar;Arora A (P.G. Dep of Chem, Dungar Coll Univ of Bikaner, Bikaner-334 003) : Percentage of moisture and ash content of pollens of Prosopis juliflora and solubilities in differnet solvents. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2005, 3(2), 435-6.

Phytochemical studies in various parts of plants i.e. root, stem, leaf and in seed are very common but detection of chemicals in the pollens is still very rare. The work deals with the determination of percentage of ash and moisture in the pollens of Prosopis juliflora. Solubility in different solvents has also been determined.

1 table, 5 ref

004369   Bhansali E;Chaudhary B L (Dep of Bot, M.L. Sukhadia Univ, Udaipur-313 001) : Effect of Lantana camara Linn. extract on spore germination of physcomitrium japonicum (HEDW.). Biochem Cell Archs 2006, 6(1), 135-9.

The effect of Lantana camara on spore germination of Physcomitrium japonicum has been studied. It is observed that maximum inhibition was noticed from the extract of leaf followed by stem and root extract.

5 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

004368   Bhandari A P;Sukanya D H (NO, Indian Grassland and Fodder Res Inst Regional Res Stn, Dharwad, Karnataka) : Morphological characterization of napier grass germplasm Pennisetum purpureum (Schum). Ann agric biol Res 2006, 11(1), 47-52.

Sixty-four genotypes of napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum) were evaluated for leaf, stem and inflorescence characters. High level of variability was observed for all the characters except for rachis pubescence and ligule length. The insensitive nature of the studied characters to environment revealed that these traits can be used in characterizing the napier accessions. Among 64 accessions, only 11 could be identified unambiguously.

1 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

004367   Bhandari A P;Sukanya D H (NO, Indian Grassland and Fodder Res Inst Regional Res Stn, Dharwad, Karnataka) : Genetic diversity in napier grass germplasm. Ann agric biol Res 2006, 11(1), 43-6.

Sixty-four genotypes of napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum) evaluated for genetic diversity for 11 morphological characters were grouped into nine divergent clusters. Significant variability existed among genotypes for characters studied. The pattern of D² clusters demonstrated that geographical diversity need not be related to genetic diversity. The cluster means for various characters suggested selection of useful parents such as less serrated and less pubescent types for further breeding work.

3 tables, 4 ref

004366   Barnalidey;Srivastava R C (Dep of Life Sci, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar, West Tripura-799 130, Email: rcsrivastavatu@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of foliar application of plant growth regulators (AA, GA3 and kinetin) on nitrate reductase activity and biomass in green gram (Vigna radiata). J appl Biosci 2006, 32(1), 54-8.

Foliar application of Indole Acetic Acid (IAA), Gibberellic acid (GA₃) and kinetin at different stages of growth led to high level of nitrate reductase (NR) activity and biomass. High level of nitrate reductase (NR) activity and biomass were recorded following three sprays of IAA, at vegetative and pre- and post flowering stage. Two sprays of GA₃ and kinetin (pre- and post flowering) were most effective in term of increase and biomass. Sprays at two latter stages were more effective than the spray at vegetative stage.

3 illus, 28 ref

004365   Avtar Singh;Toky O P;Dhillon G P S (Dep of For, CCS Haryana Agric Univesity, Hisar-125 004) : Variation in growth traits of Eucalyptus tereticornis at juvenile stage. Ann agric biol Res 2006, 11(1), 57-62.

Study was conducted to estimate genetic variation in growth traits of Eucalyptus tereticornis. The trial was conducted by raising 52 progenies in nursery under completely randomized design with three replications. The plants were transplanted in the field following randomized block design having three replications and plot size of four plants. The data on plant height and collar diameter were recorded at nursery stage and in the field after 6 and 12 months. The differences among progenies were significant in both the traits studied at all stages of observation. The promising progenies after 12 months age were P₁₂, P₇ and P₅₂ for height and P₆, P₂₉ and P₅₂ for collar diameter. The values of the broad sense heritability for height and collar diameter at nursery stage were 0.48 and 0.43, respectively, and these values decreased at the field stage. The genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) at the nursery stage, 6- and 12 months of age in the field were 7.21, 5.04 and 4.40% for height and 5.28, 3.56 and 3.04% for collar diameter, respectively.

2 tables, 13 ref

004364   Arora A;Jain C L (Dep of Chem, M.M.H. Coll, Ghaziabad-201 001) : Effect of uniconazole on the tomato leaves (Lycopersicon esculentum) treated with cadmium. Biochem Cell Archs 2006, 6(1), 37-42.

Uniconazole is a triazole derivative having protective properties against heavy metals in different physiological conditions. In investigation, the effect of cadmium toxicity on the leaves of Lycopersicon esculentum has been studied. It affected adversely the leaves of photosynthetic pigments and ascorbic acid. However, the concentration of proline increases with increased concentration of cadmium. A remarkable protective effect of uniconazole on the leaves has been reported while treated with uniconazole the adverse effect of cadmium is minimized thereby increasing the concentration of photosynthetic pigments and level of ascorbic acid.

2 illus, 16 ref

004363   Arora A;Jain C L (Dep of Chem, M.M.H. Coll, Ghaziabad-201 001) : Role of uniconazole on accumulation of cadmium in Abelmoschus esculentus. Biochem Cell Archs 2006, 6(1), 21-7.

Bioaccumulation describes the uptake of chemicals by food. A bioaccumulation factor is expressed as the ratio of concentration in lipid weight in the organism to its food. In ecosystem the paths and where about of individual inorganic substances may be influenced in a specific manner by organismic activity, for example, the selective uptake and accumulation of elements. Substances occurring together may have a positive or negative effect on their transportation or accumulation within the organism or community of organisms.

2 tables, 13 ref

003348   Wu J;Chen Z;Peng S (South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou-510650, China, Email: wujinrong@scbg.ac.cn) : Allelopathic potential of invasive weeds: Alternanthera philoxeroide, Ipomoea cairica and Spartina alterniflora. Allelopathy J 2006, 17(2), 279-86.

^ssc2 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

003347   Verma M;Santha I M (Division of Biochemistry, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: ims_bio@yahoo.com) : PCR amplification and cloning of a partial glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase gene from Brassica juncea. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 620-4.

Pair of primers were synthesized based on the sequence of A. thaliana ATS 1 gene for glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase from conserved regions as deduced by aligning several reported cDNAs. Using these primers in PCR, a 886 bp genomic DNA fragment was obtained from Brassica juncea cv. Pusa Bold. After purification, the fragment was cloned into the pGEM-T Easy vector and identified as a part of the gene encoding glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase. Comparison of the nucleotide sequence revealed similarity with other reported glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase sequences. This partial gene contains six exons and five introns. It can be used to isolate full-length gene/cDNA encoding glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase.

3 illus, 20 ref

003346   Velayutham P;Ranjitha Kumari B D (Department of Botany, Government Arts College, Karur-639 005) : Influence of photoperiod on in vitro flowering in Cichorium intybus L. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 447-50.

In vitro flowering was induced from leaf and cotyledonary explants of chicory (Cichorium intybus L.0 Young leaf and cotyledonary explants were cultured in MS basal medium supplemented with IAA and BAP. The cultures were maintained at 27°C under 16 h photoperiod (3000 lux). Both the leaf and cotyledonary explants responded well in regeneration. Regeneration was achieved at low concentrations of the growth hormones, viz., 0.5 to 1.5 mg l^-1 IAA for callus induction, 1.0 mg l^-1 BAP for multiple shoot formation and 1.0 mg l^-1 IAA for rooting. The regenerated plant lets develop beautiful purple flower heads without adding any flowering hormone. Flowering is influenced either by the production of endogenous hormones or by the application of exogenous hormones. In vitro flowering was induced by a continuous 16 h photoperiod without adding any exogenous flowering hormone to the culture medium.

1 illus, 16 ref

003345   Vardhini B V;Anuradha S;Rao S R (Department of Botany, University College of Science, Osmania University, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: ssrrao2002@rediffmail.com) : Brassinosteroids - new class of plant hormone with potential to improve crop productivity. Indian J Pl Physiol 2006, 11(1), 1-12.

Brassinosteroids are a new group of plant growth substances with significant growth promoting activity. In addition, brassinosteroids also confer resistance to crop plants against environmental stresses. The article reviews the studies employing brassinosteroids on crop plants such as vegetables, fruits, cereals, oil seeds and others. It also highlights the constraints faced earlier in large scale field application of brassinosteroids and also presents the current scenario enlisting the commercially available brassinosteroids. The potentiality of brassinosteroids in enhancing crop productivity is discussed.

3 tables, 9 ref

003344   Varalakshmi D;Lakshmi N;Guruprasad K N (NO, School of Life Science, Takshashila Campus, D.A.V.V., Khandwa Road, Indore-452 017, Email: knguruprasad@hotmail.com) : Physiological changes in soybean cv. js 71-05-after the exclusion of uv a and uv-b from the solar radiation. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 602-6.

Soybean variety JS 71-05 was grown under vinyl filters that could exclude UV-B and UV-A (<60>320 and 380 nm) part of the natural solar spectrum. Exclusion of UV-B radiation promoted leaf area, internodal length and plant height. Exclusion of UV-A along with UV-B had an additive effect on promoting the growth parameters. A significantly higher amount of ct-tocopherol accumulated in the leaves and nodal tissues by the elimination of solar UV-B. The in vivo level of ascorbic acid in the leaves is reduced by the exclusion of UV-B and UV-A. Among the antioxidant enzyme analyzed, the activity of guaiacol peroxidase is significantly reduced by exclusion of UV-B especially in the nodal tissues; the activity of peroxidase underwent further reduction by the elimination of both UV-A and UV-B. Thus under the normal solar radiation the guaiacol peroxidase activity is kept higher in the plants to counter the oxidative stress caused by the presence of UV-A and UV-B in the solar radiation. The enhanced vegetative growth in the absence of UV-A and UV-B is further complemented by the increase in the number of pods formed per plant. Exclusion of UV-B also increases seed weight while the absence of both UV-A and UV-B results in the reduction of seed weight.

4 illus, 21 ref

003343   Uppal D S;Mehta A (Central Potato Research Station, , Jalandhar-144 003, Email: hdasec@yahoo.com) : Effects of isopropyl N-(3-chlorophenyl) carbamate (Cipc) on storability and processing quality of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) under non-refrigerated storage. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 698-704.

Applications of isopropyl N-(3-chlorophenyl) carbamate (CIPC) were studied on potatoes (cv. Kufri Chandramukhi) stored from March to June under heap (13-32°C, 60-94% RH), pit (13-29°C, 76-95% RH) and passive evaporative cool store (10-32°C, 71-96% RH). Single (1%) @ 0.25% and double treatment of CIPC, suppressed sprouting of tubers significantly i.e. 16.3 and 83.7%, at 12 and 16 weeks of storage, respectively. Sprout weight was reduced, 44.2 to 93.3%, in treated tubers as compared to control under 3 storage systems. Total losses were significantly lower with double CIPC treatment. During storage, chip colour improved significantly and chips made from treated tubers were of acceptable light yellow colour (3-5 score) and superior in taste as compared to freshly harvested (8 score) and control (5-7 score) tubers. Peeling losses were higher (25 to 33%) in untreated tubers stored in pit and heap. The mean concentrations of reducing sugars decreased significantly where as sucrose increased manifolds after storage as compared to freshly harvested tubers. The application of CIPC decreased the amount of reducing sugars significantly at 12 weeks but did not have much effect on the concentrations of total phenols and free amino acids. The CIPC treated tubers had, 14-17, 6-15, 5-20, 2-3% less activities of polyphenoloxidase, peroxidase, invertase and total amylases respectively. These findings have a great significance as CIPC application in conjunction with traditional storage systems (heaps and pits) can extend the storage life of potato to be used for processing.

5 tables, 18 ref

003342   Upadhyaya S D;Nema S (Department of Plant Physiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur-482 004, Email: sdupadhyaya@jnkvv.org) : Nitrogen supplement in paddy field through Acacia nilotica planted at farm bunds - a sustainable tree based cropping system. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 584-7.

Growing leguminous trees on farm bunds is an age old practice in India. It has been recognized as an ecofriendly land use system which is capable of yielding both wood and food. Acacia nilotica grown in paddy (Oryza sativa L.) farm bunds especially in rain fed ecosystem of Central India (Kymore Plateau Zone) is very extensive and highly developed practice for the use of woody component as small timber, fuel wood and fodder besides grain yield. Studies conducted on farmers paddy field having Acacia trees on bunds revealed that under tree, upto 5 m distance the total nitrogen availability was found to be higher, as compare to the fields having no trees. Besides this, nitrogen supplement benefit, the Acacia leaf extract can also increase the germinability of paddy crop and enhance the growth of shoot and root of paddy seedlings. Allelopathic potentials of tree leaf litter also showed favorable indication of stimulatory effect on improved crop growth through the release of nitrogen by the donor species i.e. nitrogen fixing trees. It was concluded that the Acacia has stimulatory allelopathic effects on paddy crops, hence growing Acacia on paddy bunds may be recommended as a sustainable tree based cropping system.

3 tables, 12 ref

003341   Umamaheswari S;Viveka S;Vijayalakshmi G S (Sri Paramkalyani Centre for Environmental Sciences, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Alwarkurichi-627 412) : Effect of Eichhornia composts on germination and chlorophyll content of Abelmoschus esculentus. J Ecotoxic envir Monit 2006, 16(1), 19-23.

Comparative effects of Eichhornia composts on the seed germination, chlorophyll and carotene content of Abelmoschus esculentus prepared by methods of viz., Indore, Bangalore, Phospho compost, Chinese, Biodung-vermi, Padegaon, Vermi, Biogass-slurry, Trichoderma harzianum and Trichoderma viridae composts have been studied. Good germination results of 96.7% and maximum chlorophyll and carotene content (9.07 & 0.26 mg/g) were observed in biodung - vermi compost applied plot.

2 tables, 5 ref

003340   Tomar C S;Singh S (Department of Pomology, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni Solan-173 230) : Standardization of macronutrient ranges in kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) Chev Cv. Bruno. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 565-9.

Standardization of N, P, K, Ca and Mg ranges in kiwifruit cv. Bruno by solution culture technique were carried out in the Department of Pomology, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni-Solan. Significant effect of substrate nutrient level studied for each nutrient was observed on seedling height, total leaf area, dry weight and nutrient concentration in the leave. Based on these observations and also on the appearance of visual deficiency symptoms, broad nutrient ranges were established categorizing the nutrient status of kiwifruit seedlings into deficient, low, optimum and high range. For N, ranges established were 0.91-1.14 per cent deficient, 1.15-2.29 per cent low range, 2.30-2.91 per cent optimum range and more than 3.34 per cent as higher range. Similarly the ranges established for P, were 0.08-0.12 per cent as deficient range, 0.13-0.17 per cent as low range, 0.18-0.24 per cent as optimum range and 0.25-0.41 per cent as high range. Ranges for K were 0.63-1.41 per cent as deficient, 1.42-1.77 per cent as low range, 1.78-2.29 per cent as optimum range and 2.30-3.29 per cent as high range. For Ca ranges established were 0.17-1.48 per cent as deficient, 1.49-2.95 per cent as low range, 2.96-3.84 per cent as optimum range and 3.85-4.59 per cent as higher range. For Mg ranges were 0.08-0.18 per cent as deficient, 0.19-0.32 per cent as low range, 0.33-0.45 per cent as optimum range and 0.46-0.52 per cent as higher range.

6 tables, 10 ref

003339   Tirkey A;Jain S K (School of Life Sciences, Pt R S University, Raipur-492 010, Email: skjain1926@rediffmail.com) : Tradition of clan names and conservation among the Oraons of Chhattisgarh. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2006, 5(2), 224-6.

Oraons of Chattisgarh have a tradition of totemism; name their clans after plants, animals, and other objects of their daily needs or environment. They attach some special sigmficance like faIth, taboos or other practices to emphasize the importance of these things in their survival and the need for their conservation. The folk of those clans do not harm these species, and protect them from any damage. Examples of names of some animals, plants, and other objects common among the Oraons of Chattisgarh are given. Such traditions helping in conservation of biodiversity, and natural resources have been discussed.

1 table, 6 ref

003338   Tebourbi O;Trabelsi C;Nasi C B;Sakly M (Laboratory of Environmental Physiology, Science Faculty, Bizerta-Jarzouna 7021, Tunisia, Email: cherif_bennasr@yahoo.fr) : Antioxidant activity of extract of Rhus oxyacantha root cortex. Indian J expl Biol 2006, 44(3), 246-9.

Root extract of Rhus oxyacantha contained 25.33 mg of catechin equivalent per mg of fresh wt and was found rich in proanthocyanidins compared to vine shoot, grape pips and leaves. The chromatographic analysis of the extract suggested the presence of (+) catechin, (-) epicatechin -3-O-gallate as well as proanthocyanidinic oligomers and polymers. Root cortex inhibited the ascorbic acid oxidation by dioxygen. It also prevented DDT-induced thymocytes death in a dose-dependent manner. The results suggested antioxidant property of root extract of Rhus oxyacantha which could be ascribed to its free radical scavenging nature.

3 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

003337   Tan C L;Bhore S J;Shah F H (School of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technol, National University of Malaysia, 436 00, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia, Email: faridashah@melaka.gov.my) : Quantitative and qualitative assessment of phenotypic variation in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq. Tenera) plantlets regenerated from transformed and non-transformed calli. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 613-9.

Somaclonal variation is a major concern in micropropagation of oil palm. Reports the effect of stress caused by particle bombardment and subsequent selection on phenotype of Elaeis guineensis Jacq. Tenera plantlets, which were regenerated through somatic embryogenesis from transformed and non-transformed calli. The highest phenotypic abnormality displayed was 40.4% in plant let population (P3) regenerated from transformed calli selected at the calli stage. However, there were no significant differences in phenotypic abnormality percentages among plantlet populations regenerated from non-transformed (P1), transformed non-selected (P2), and transformed calli selected at the embryogenic stage (P4). Research findings clearly imply that stress caused by injuries (by particle bombardment) and subsequent selection has no significant effect on phenotype of regenerated plantlets of oil palm E. guineensis Jacq. Tenera.

4 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

003336   Taia W K;El Zahrani H S;Kootbi A M (Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt) : The effect of static magnetic forces on seed germination and seedling morphological characters of sweet basil Ocimum basillicum L. (Lamiacea). Biosci Res Bull 2005, 21(2), 119-27.

The seeds of Sweet Basil commonly cultivated in the streets, as ornaments, are exposed to different magnetic forces. The seeds are divided into two categories; one has been exposed to deferent magnetic forces before germination, while the other has been exposed to the magnetic forces during germination. The second group has been subdivided into three portions in which each has been exposed to three different forces from certain direction; from air, at soil surface and under soil surface. The results revealed that pre-exposure seeds have mostly stopped the germination while the exposure during the germination accelerates the germination but the taxonomical characters of the seedlings respond in a different ways according to both the direction and strength of the magnetic field. In the first group exposure to 4.36 ml tesla has prevent germination at all, while the exposure to 2 hours gave 15% germination. The second group germination under air magnetic field gave better taxonomical characters of the seedlings at lower forces than the buried one and both are better than the surface magnetic field. In the last two directions of the magnets the high magnetic forces gave better characters of the seedlings. Characters of both roots and leaves as well as the length of the seedlings and the number of secondary roots have been changed according to the different exposure directions and forces.

4 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

003335   Sushama P R;Surekha Rani P;Johnson M E C; Shailaja K (NO, , H.No.2-2-185/56/G/2(1068), Central Excise Colony, Hyderabad, Email: sushamapalaparthy@yahoo.com) : Life cycle of a moss Sterodon - a new and interesting report from Hyderabad British residency. Biosci Res Bull 2005, 21(2), 99-101.

Deals with a terrestrial moss Sterodon sp Broth, I.C., belongs to order Hypnobryales of the family Hypnaceae. Shoots are radially symmetrical, flattened, leaves ovate-lanceolate, non bordered cells smooth. This was found growing on the tree trunk and branches of Eugenia jambolana located in the botanical garden of Osmania University College for Women, Koti, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India. Special emphasis has been made on morphological characters, structural details and factors responsible for growth and propagation to understand the life cycle of the moss. Plants are very fertile with distinct sporophytes which is divisible into foot, seta and capsule.Various stages of spore maturation and dispersal was observed.

4 ref

003334   Sudarsanarao G V;Khetarpal S;Chandra R;Raj A; Kanth S;Polisetty R (Division of Plant Physiology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: sangeetakhetarpal@yahoo.co.in) : Interactive effect of photoperiod and plant growth regulators on in vitro regeneration from cotyledonary node explants of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.) Millsp.). Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 689-92.

The objective was to assess the interactive role of photoperiod and growth regulators on shoot bud induction in cotyledonary node explants of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L. Millsp.). Explants were cultured in two photoperiods [viz., photoperiod A (16 h light + 8 h dark for 15 days) and photoperiod B (24 h dark for 7 days and then shifted to photoperiod A)] with different PGR combinations [viz., BAP alone (1.0, 2.0, 5.0 mg 1^-1), BAP 2.0 mg l^-1 + NAA (0.01, 0.05, 0.1 mg 1^-1) and BAP 2.0 mg 1^-1 + NAA 0.05 mg 1^-1 + ethrel 5 ppm]. Significant differences in fresh weight were observed only between different growth regulator treatments. Among treatments supplemented only with BAP, BAP at 2.0 mg l^-1 with photoperiod A resulted in more fresh weight. BAP at 2.0 mg L^-1 with photoperiod A resulted in more fresh weight gain and recorded better shoot bud induction. Addition of NAA and ethrel suppressed regenerative ability of explants. Emission of ethylene and methane were higher with photoperiod B in all combinations of hormones. Better regeneration response was observed when ethylene: methane ratio was nearly one (i.e., BAP 2 mg l^-1 with photoperiod A).

1 table, 9 ref

003333   Sudarsanarao G V;Giridharan M P;Naik B J; Suresh P R;Mammootty K P (Department of plant Physiology, Regional Agricultural Research Station, Kerala, Email: sudarsan_kau@yahoo.co.in) : Optimum physiological maturity of coconut cultivars for tender nut purpose. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 681-4.

Twelve cultivars of coconut were studied for nut water accumulation, sugars and soluble protein contents with the aim of identifying suitable superior genotypes for tender nut purpose. It was observed that maximum amount of nut water accumulated in Java followed by New Guinea, Bengal and Cochin China. Total sugars, reducing sugars, soluble protein and ascorbic acid contents were maximum during 220 days after inflorescence emergence (DAIE). Further, the cultivars varied with respect to carbon partitioning to nut water and dry matter of whole nut. Maximum consumer acceptance was recorded in Chowaghat Green Dwarf (CGD) followed by Chowaghat Orange Dwarf (COD), Cochin China and Java.

3 tables, 7 ref

003332   Srivastava J P;Vinod Kumar (Department of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005, Email: jps@banaras.ernet.in) : Effect of silicon on morphological, physiological and biochemical parameters of wheat. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 570-5.

Effect of silicon (Si) on morphological, physiological and biochemical parameters in wheat Triticum aesrivum (L.) was studied in hydroponics. Presence of Si in the nutrient solution increased root and shoot dry biomass and leaf area. Silicon deficient plants maintained significantly higher leaf conductance, while cuticular conductance did not differ significantly with Si treatment. Cell membrane injury due to osmotic stress was less in Si treated plants. Under osmotic stress, created by polyethylene glycol-6000, Si supplemented plants maintained higher leaf conductance, but the level of soluble sugars and amino acids in leaves did not change significantly. It is concluded that Si has beneficial effects on growth, physiological and biochemical functions of wheat. Nevertheless, further investigations are needed on biochemical functions of Si in plants and its role in regulation of stomatal conductance and transpiration.

7 tables, 25 ref

003331   Srivastav M;Ram S;Sharma R R;Khawale R N (Division of Fruits and Horticultural Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: ms_fht@rediffmail.com) : Residual effect of paclobutrazol in yield and fruit quality of mango cultivars. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 483-8.

Investigation was carried out in 1997-98 after its application of paclobutrazol in September and October 1995-96 in soil under the tree of mango cultivars i.e. Dashehari, Langra, Chausa and Fazali (19-20 years old). The fruit and seed contained low levels of paclobutrazol in treated mango cultivars (Dashehari, Langra, Chausa and Fazali), which was much below the acceptable international level of 0.5 mg/kg in the fruit as recommended by FAO. The presence of paclobutrazol in the fruit also provided evidence for its presence in mango trees particularly in the shoot, which counteracted growth and induced flowering in all cultivars. In general, September application of paclobutrazol in soil is better than October particularly in early maturing cultivars Dashehari and Langra. Presence of low level of paclobutrazol in pulp and peel as well as seed after 20-21 months of its treatment further suggest that it is slowly degraded in soil and continuously absorbed in mango plants but rate of degradation is not faster than rate of absorption. Therefore, when paclobutrazol was applied @ 2.3 gram per metre canopy diameter, it should not be repeated in the third year to utilize residues present in soil and plant. However, flowering and fruiting in 1998 further suggest that paclobutrazol should be applied in the fourth year to get desirable results.

2 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

003330   Sivakumar T;Ravikumar M;Sivakumar N (P.G. and Research Department of Microbiology, J.J. College of Arts and Science, Pudukkottai-622 404) : Isolation of fungi from tsunami affected areas of Pondicherry. Geobios 2006, 33(2-3), 221-2.

^ssc2 tables, 11 ref

003329   Sisler E C;Serek M (Department of Molecular and Structural Biochemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh NC 27695, USA, Email: serek@zier.uni-hannover.de) : Manipulating ethylene effects in horticultural crops by 1-MCP and related receptor blocking compounds. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 451-5.

Selecting and testing various strained olefines as ethylene antagonists led to the discovery that l-methylcyclopropen (1-MCP) and other cyclopropenes effectively block ethylene responses at the receptor level. 1-MCP is now commercially available under the trade name ethylBloc(r) and AgroFresh(tm). It is very effective in blocking ethylene responses in a range of ornamental crops. Ripening of banana and other fruits was delayed by 12 days after a single exposure to 0.5 ml^-1 of 1-MCP and then they ripened normally. Prepared and tested the effectiveness of many other substituted cyclopropenes. Some require a much higher concentration than 1-MCP and inactivate the receptor for from 3 to 12 days. Some recently prepared 1-substituted cyclopropenes inactivate the receptor for 14, 20, 25, and 36 days at very low concentrations. Although these compounds appear to block all ethylene responses but each varies somewhat in the minimum concentration required and the time of protection conferred, depending on the plant material involved. Much testing remains to realize the full potential of these compounds but they do offer new ways to extend the life of fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals.

4 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

003328   Singh V P;Jegadheesan A (Division of Plant Physiology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: drsinghvp@yahoomail.com) : Effect of alpha lipoic acid on senescence in gladiolus flowers. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 516-21.

Vase life of Gladiolus was increased by two fold when α lipoic acid (100 ppm) along with 4% sucrose (1:1, v/v) was included in the vase solution. Fresh weight, flower diameter, total soluble protein (SP), membrane Stability index (MSI) and activities of antioxidant enzymes; superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), were also increased by the treatment in comparison to control. On the other hand, level of lipid peroxidation in terms of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TEARS) and the activity of lipoxygenase (LOX) enzyme were reduced by α-lipoic acid treatment. It is suggested that α-lipoic acid acts as a free radical scavenger, hence, decreased their interaction with proteins, lipids and nucleic acids, delaying the process of lipid peroxidation and consequently senescence.

3 illus, 31 ref

003327   Singh V K;Prasad S (NO, Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Rehmankhera, Lucknow-227 107, Email: vks_cish@indiatimes.com) : Mangiferin-A natural source of resistance to mango malformation. Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 508-11.

Changes in mangiferin content was studied in mango (Mangifera indica L.) cvs. Elaichi (resistant) and Amrapali, Beauty Mc-lin and Dashehari (susceptible) at various stages of flower development. Accumulation of mangiferin was maximum (96.0 mg g^-1 FW, 108.0 mg g^-1 FW) in Elaichi prior to flower bud differentiation (September) and at full bloom (February), while it was minimum (59.0 & 74.0 mg g^-1 FW) in highly susceptible cv. Beauty Mc-lin. Mangiferin exhibited inhibitory role on the occurrence of malformation. Elevated mangiferin level in Elaichi clearly depicts its role in malformation resistance process of plant and could be considered as a potential bio-chemical indicator for screening mango genotypes to malformation.

3 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

003326   Singh S M;Puja G;Bhat D J (National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research, , Headland Sada, Vasco-Da-Gama, Goa-403 804, Email: smsingh@ncaor.org) : Psychrophilic fungi from Schirmacher oasis, East Antarctica. Curr Sci 2006, 90(10), 1388-92.

Results of a preliminary study on the fungal biodiversity of Soils of Schirmacher Oasis, East Antarctica have been presented. Using 2% malt extract agar medium, serial dilution method was followed to recover the fungi in culture from the soil samples. Fungal colonies were visible in culture plates only when maintained at 2-5°C for up to 45 days. Several taxa of fungi were recovered.

3 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

003325   Singh M;Kumar S;Srivastava K;Chakraborty S; Kumar P A;Kalloo G;Banerjee M K (NO, Indian Institute of Vegetable Research, 1 Gandhi Nagar (Naria), PB 5002, PO. BHU, Varanasi-221 005, Email: majorsingh@sify.com) : Transfer of A Bt crystal protein gene (Cry1Ab) to brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Indian J Pl Physiol 2003, (Spl Iss Pt 2), 630-3.

A procedure for in vitro regeneration was developed using epicotyl and hypocotyl explants of five commercially grown eggplant cultivars. This regeneration procedure was used to facilitate gene transfer through Agrobacterium tumefaciens in eggplant var Pusa Purple Long using Cry1Ab gene present in the T-DNA of the binary vector plasmid pBin AR, which also contains gene that encodes neomycin phospho transferase II (nptll). The explants were co-cultivated with A. tumefaciens and the shoots were regenerated on Murashige and Skoogs medium containing 4.44 μM/l BAP and 1.14 μ M/l IAA. The selection was done on a medium containing 50 mg/l Kanamycin and 500 mg/l Cefotoxime. The Ro brinjal plants were normal and tested positive for NPT II through PCR with npt II specific primer. The NPT II positive transformants were further subjected to Enzyme Linked Immuno-sorbant Assay (ELISA), which indicated that the CrylAb protein is present in protein extracts of progeny plants. The southern blot with Cry gene specific probe showed the presence of 2.4 kb fragment specific to cry gene suggesting its integration with plant genome. The transformed progenies are being multiplied for further evaluation and bioassay.

2 illus, 11 ref

003324   Singh D;Seth P;Sharma V;Khandelwal S (Department of Biochemistry, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur, Rajasthan-313 001, Email: Pushpa_seth@yahoo.co.in) : Protease from germinating moth bean seeds. Indian J Pl Physiol 2006, 11(1), 100-3.

Protease activity in the crude extracts of germinating moth bean (Vigna aconitifolia Jacq.) seeds was investigated. The activity was measured at different pH upto 48 hours of germination. The maximum protease activity was found in 12 hours imbibed seeds and it declined up to 48 hours of germination. The protease activity was enhanced by cysteine, mercaptoethanol, EDTA and thiourea. Increase in activity with these thiol specific activators suggested that this protease possessed cysteine at its active site or near to it. Enzyme inhibition with iodoacetic acid also supported this phenomenon. Enzyme was also inhibited with bivalent cations, viz. Zn²⁺, Cu²⁺, Mg²⁺ and Ca²⁺. This inhibition suggested that enzyme does not belong to metalloprotease class and did not require bivalent cations for the degradation of storage protein.

^ssc2 illus, 1 table, 17 ref