003227   Rakesh Kumar (Bontany Dep, Vijay Singh Pathik Government (PG) College, Kairana (Shamli)) : Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used by the traditional practitioners of Shamli district of Uttar Pradesh (India). e-J appl For Ecol 2016, 4(1), 9-15.

Plants are very much important for the survival of human being as they are the source of food, timber, clothes and fuel however they have also been used ethnomedicinally as curative tools in the Indian System of Medicine. Old literatures viz; Atharveda, Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita etc. reveal that plants have been used as drugs frequently from time immemorial. In spite of achievements of allopathic medicines the Indian Systems of Medicine still continue to provide medical cure to majority of the people on the account of their cheaper cost and no side effects. A floristic exploration of ethnomedicinal angiospermic plants occurring in Shamli District of Uttar Pradesh was conducted. This exploration was aimed to assess the potentiality of plant resources used for traditional treatment by the local people of Shamli District. The information on medicinal uses of plants is based on the exhaustive interviews with local physicians practicing indigenous system of medicine, village headmen and growers. Total 56 plant species belonging to 31 families and 49 genera were recorded and a list of plant species along with their part/s used and their effective control in different ailments was prepared.

003226   Rajakumar T J S;Selvakumari R;Murugesan S; Chellaperumal N (Centre for Botanical Research, P.G. & Research Dep of Botany, St. John's College, Tirunelveli-627 002) : Vernonia kannikattiensis-a new species of Asteraceae from Agasthyamalai biosphere reserve, Tamil Nadu, India. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 269-71.

A new species, Vernonia kannikattiensis, is described and illustrated.

1 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

003225   Rai I D;Jalal J S;Singh G;Pankaj Kumar (Wildlife Institute of India, , P.O. Box <35> 18, Chandrabani, Dehradun-248 001, Email: ishwari.rai@gmail.com) : Note on the occurrence of Eulophia flava (Lindl.) hook.f. (Orchidaceae) in Kumaon Himalaya. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 263-4.

Eulophia flava (Lindl.) Hook. f. is collected from the Kumaon Himalaya after a gap of 150 years.

1 illus, 8 ref

003224   Pradhan S;Pradhan S (NO, , Green Paradise, Plot No. 116(1), Vivekananda Nagar, Sonepur-767 017, Email: drushilpradhan@gmail.com) : On the occurrence of vivipary in papaya plant. Bionotes 2017, 19(1), 32.

3 ref

003223   Poonam Kumari;Khanna V (Microbiology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: poonam15sep@gmail.com) : Biodiversity of Pseudomonas and Bacillus possessing both bioantagonistic and plant growth promoting traits in chickpea rhizosphere. Int J Sci Nat 2016, 7(1), 153-8.

A total of 174 rhizobacterial isolates (76 from Kings B medium and 98 from Nutrient Agar) were isolated from 36 rhizospheric soil samples collected from different chickpea growing locations. Of these 174 isolates, 55 were found antagonistic to Fusarium oxysporum, 65 to Rhizoctonia bataticola and 50 to both. Twenty-nine rhizobacterial isolates (13 from Kings B and 16 from Nutrient agar) with inhibition of <62> 20% were scored as strong antagonists and inhibited mycelial proliferation of both the test fungi. The cultural, morphological and biochemical tests tentatively placed the isolates into two genera Bacillus and Pseudomonas. Screening of 50 antagonistic bacterial isolates for P-solubilization ability revealed that 19 (10 were representatives of genus Bacillus and 9 of Pseudomonas) could solubilize tricalcium phosphate. Zn- solubilizing potential was associated with 20 isolates in the range of 1.14-1.77. All the isolates tested positive for gibberellic acid (11.9-36.3 μg/ml) and IAA production, however, presence of tryptophan greatly affected the IAA production pattern of isolates. In the absence of tryptophan, IAA production ranged from 2.4-15.5 μg/ml in contrast to 9.2-48.7 μg/ml in presence of 3mM tryptophan. Bacillus isolates were more efficient IAA producers both in presence and absence of tryotophan. Salicylic acid production was exhibited by 47 isolates (22 of Bacillus and 25 pseudomonads) while 16 produced siderophore (9 Pseudomonas sp. and 7 Bacillus sp).

26 ref

003222   Phatake Y B;Dharmadhikari S M (Microbiology Dep, Vidya Pratishtans School of Biotechnology, Baramati, Maharashtra, Email: phatakeyogmicro@gmail.com) : Isolation and screening of prodigiosin producing bacteria and characterization of produced pigment. Int J Sci Nat 2016, 7(1), 202-9.

Biopigment are natural compounds (secondary metabolite) produced by many organisms represent one of the important sources of potential lead compounds. Prodigiosin (5[(3-methoxy-5-pyrrol-2-ylidene-pyrrol-2-ylidene) is a red, tripyrrole, water insoluble, bioactive pigment produced by number of different bacteria, actinomycetes and some fungi. Kraft in 1902 named red colour compound which he extracted from Bacillus prodigiosus as Prodigiosin. Wrede and Hettche (1929) obtained the Prodigiosin from bacterium S. marcescens using sodium hydroxide treatment process. In the present study five different samples (starchy food, clinical, milk, water and Soil) were used for isolation of pigment producing bacteria. Four out of sixteen characteristic red colour bacterial isolate obtained shows notable yield of Prodigiosin in peptone broth was selected for further study. The selected strains were identified by using morphological and biochemical analysis. The produced pigment was further characterized by using spectroscopic analysis (by comparing its lambda max with the standard.) and by using chromatographic studies (by comparing its Rf value with the standard.).

24 ref

003221   Pallavi Rai (Botany Dep, C.M.P. Degree College, Allahabad-211 002) : Effect of fly ash on growth and yield of crop plant. J nat Resour Dev 2016, 11(1), 11-13.

This study was conducted to see the effect of fly ash on growth and yield of plant. Study revealed that fly ash was most effective in growth and yield of plant.

3 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

003220   Murugan P;Tagore J K;Thomas K V (Botanical Survey of India, Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre, Haddo, Port Blair-744 102, Email: murulax@gmail.com) : Recollection of Drimycarpus racemosus (Anacardiaceae) from Andaman & Nicobal Islands, India. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 285-6.

Drimycarpus racemosus (Roxb.) Hook.f. a rare and poorly known species, is recollected from a view locality Paget Island other than previous collection from South Andaman. A short description and its distribution, ecological status, plate, etc is provided here further collection and identification in field.

2 illus, 10 ref

003219   Mathur A;Joshi H (Botany Dep, Kumaun Univ S.S.J. Campus, Almora-263 601, Email: anjalimathur.rs@rediffmail.com) : Important timber (wood) plant species found in tarai region of Kumaun, Uttarakhand. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 227-30.

The paper enumerates 57 species of important timber yielding plants collected from tarai region, Uttarakhand.

1 table, 10 ref

003218   Kamal Kishor;Pangtey Y P S (Botany Dep, D.S.B. Campus, Kumaun Univ, Nainital-263 001, Email: yspangety@gmail.com ) : Lathraea squamaria L. (Orobanchaceae): a new record for Kumaun Himalaya. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 253-4.

Lathraea squamaria L. is reported as new record for Kumaun Himalaya with brief description, ecology and distribution.

1 illus, 13 ref

003217   Kalidass C (Taxonomy & Conservation, Regional Plant Resource Centre, Bhubaneswar, Email: kalidassindia@gmail.com) : Mitracarpus hirtus var. sessilis (rubiaceae), an addition to the flora of Odisha state. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 273-4.

Mitracarpus hirtus (L.) DC. var. sessilis Dhruvan, Pandur and Mohanan (Rubiaceae), hitherto known only from Kerala is reported here for the first time from Eastern Ghats, Odisha. Detailed description, photographs and relevant notes are provided for easy identification.

1 illus, 5 ref

003216   Joshi P;Joshi S P (Ecology Research Laboratory Dep of Botany, DAV (PG) College, Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand, Email: pandeypragya6@gmail.com) : Fern flora of Nachiketa lake and adjoining areas of Uttarkashi district (Garhwal Himalayas). Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 265-8.

The present manuscript deals with 54 species of Pteridophytes (Ferns only) occurring at Nachiketa Lake and its adjoining areas. Family polypodiaceae was observed as the most dominant family with 7 species growing epiphytically in the area. Some uncommon rather rare species for the district Uttarkashi viz., Loxogramma involuta (D. Don) Presl, Gymnopteris vestita (Wall, ex Moore) Underw., Woodsia elongata Hook. were also collected from the study area. The altitudinal range of 2000-2500m is observed as the most favoured zone in terms of riches of species.

21 ref

003215   Joshi B (Botanical Survey of India, Central Regional Centre, Allahabad-211 002, Email: bhavanas_joshi@yahoo.com) : Two additional angiosperms for the fora of Madhya Pradesh. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 275-6.

Acmella uliginosa (Sw.) Cass. and Solarium viarum Dunal are recorded as additions to Madhya Pradesh flora.

2 illus, 13 ref

003214   Joseph S;Sinha G P;Ramachandran V S (Botanical Survey of India, Central Regional Centre, 10-Chaitham Lines, Allahabad-211 002) : Two new records of the genus Opegrapha Sensu Lato (Lichenized Ascomycota) from India. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 255-57.

The present paper deals with two new records for India of the genus Opegrapha viz., O. subdimidiata from West Bengal and O. xerica from Sikkim. A detailed account and figures of the both species are provided to facilitate their identification.

1 illus, 18 ref

003213   Janani S;Priyadharshini P;Jayaraj R S C; Buvaneswaran C;Warrier R R (Institute of Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding, P.B.No. 1061, R.S. Puram, Coimbatore-641 002, Email: rekhawarrier@gmail.com) : Growth, physiological and biochemical responses of meliaceae species- Azadirachta indica and Melia dubia to elevated CO₂ concentrations. J appl Biol Biotechnol 2016, 4(3), 52-60.

Response of two important tropical tree species of Meliaceae (Azadirachta indica -neem and Melia dubia - melia) to elevated levels of CO₂ (600 and 900 ppm) under simulated temperature and moisture regimes in Automated Open Top Chambers was studied. Growth, biochemical changes, antioxidant property and gas exchange parameters were estimated. The results indicate that A. indica is expected to acclimatize under elevated CO₂ concentrations whereas M. dubia was observed to be a species sensitive to elevated CO₂ concentrations, affecting the photosynthetic machinery, stomatal conductance and transpiration and a subsequent decrease in carbohydrates, proteins, sugars, amino acids and phenolics. The short-term and long-term responses with respect to stomatal conductance and transpiration rates were higher in neem than melia. Thus, a positive response of neem to increased CO₂ concentrations is a good indication for its future establishment in potentially changed climatic conditions.

3 illus, 5 tables, 60 ref

003212   Harpreet Kour;Sanjeev Kumar;Sharma Y P (Botany Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 006, Email: yashdbm3@yahoo.co.in) : Coltricia permollis gray, a new record from India. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 219-22.

A recent survey in the temperate forest of district Poonch has resulted in the collection of Coltricia permollis, which is a new record for India. Macro and microscopic details of the present collection are provided.

2 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

003211   Garg A;Singh R K (Botanical Survey of India, Central Regional Centre, Allahabad-211 002, Email: kad_arti396@yahoo.com) : Notes on the identity and taxonomic statud of two endemic taxa of Pedicularis L. from India. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 281-3.

Pedicularispushpangadanii T. Husain & Arti Garg and P. zeylanica Benth. subsp. anamallyensis T. Husain & Arti Garg have been critically studied along with their closely allied taxa and evaluated for their taxonomic status and circumscription. It is concluded that P. pushpangadanii is conspecific with P. rhinanthoides and P. zeylanica subsp. anamallyensis with P. zeylanica subsp. zeylanica.

12 ref

003210   Chennakesavulu Naik M;Bheemalingappa M; Ganeshaiah K N;Ravi Prasad Rao B (Biodiversity Conservation Div, Botany Dep, Sri Krishnadevaraya Univ, Anantapuram-515 003, Email: biodiversityravi@gmail.com) : Additions to angiosperm flora of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India-III. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 277-9.

Five Angiosperm species are being reported as new distributional records for Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Cyanotis and Biophytum form new generic records for the eco-region. Brief description and photographs are provided for all the species.

6 ref

003209   Chakraborty J S;Jeeva V;Ram N;Singh S (Forest Ecology and Environmental Division, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun) : Termite mound induced fine scale variation in herbaceous community in a Sal forest of Doon valley. e-J appl For Ecol 2016, 4(1), 22-9.

Management of herbaceous community in the forest floor requires ecological knowledge of the factors which influence their diversity, abundance and composition at multiple spatiotemporal scales. The present study attempts to understand the influence of termite mounds on the herbaceous vegetation in a moist deciduous Sal forest from Doon Valley in western Himalayan foothills. For tracking fine scale variation along the mound to non-mound gradient, survey of herb layer were conducted during Summer, Winter and Monsoon seasons at four zones, viz. - mound body (MB), mound-influenced zones (MI- 1and MI-2) and non-mound (NM) zone. Herbaceous vegetation were compared across zones in terms of species richness, frequency, density, basal cover, community similarity as well as relative abundance of annual and perennial herbs. Termite mounds were found to induce fine scale variation in herbaceous species diversity and frequency of occurrence. The intensity of influence differed across seasons. Annual herbs were absent or less abundant near the termite mounds during summer and monsoon while winter had reverse situation. Broadly, mound body and rest of the zones were less (<126> 50%) similar whereas higher similarity (70-80%) was usually observed between non-mound and mound influenced zones indicative of mound induced fine scale distinction in associated herbaceous community. Total density and basal cover of herbaceous vegetation were significantly lowered near the mounds (MB <60> MI-1 <60> MI-2 <60> NM). Termite mounds solely explaned 9% variation in total density and 23% variability in total basal cover of the non-woody vegetation i the forest floor.

003208   Brijesh Kumar;Joshi P;Kholia B S;Srivastava S K (Botanical Survey of India, Northern Regional Centre, Dehradun-248 195, Email: bskholiabsi@mail.com) : Extended distribution of the least moonwort, Botrychium simplex E. hitchock. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 241-3.

In present communication the least moonwort, Botrychium simplex E. Hitchcock is reported for the first time from Western Himalaya.

1 illus, 30 ref

003207   Bohra N K;Mishra D K;Gehlot P;Meena S L (Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) : Eco friendly technology -bio priming. e-J appl For Ecol 2016, 4(1), 47-54.

Priming allows the synchronization of the metabolic events in a seed lot, improving the seed and uniformity of field emergence. Optimal priming ensures flawless replication and transcription of nucleic acid, promote the activation of enzyme mobilizing reserve protein and help in cell division process. It increases germination percent and shorter mean germination time. Bio priming of seeds with plant extract and microbial antagonists is gathering importance in the recent times which not only improve the vigor and seedling establishment but also minimize the risk of several plant diseases. Despite several advantages priming has not achieved its goal. The major drawback is that seed longevity is endangered by priming. However the basic mechanism of priming is generally acknowledged. Several works on seed priming were undertaken in different parts of the world. An attempt to review various works and its role in future for better production is described.

003206   Bhaumik M;Pagag K (Botanical Survey of India, Industrial Section of Indian Museum, Kolkata, Email: dr_manasb@yahoo.com) : Saurauia sinohirsuta J.Q. Li & soejarto (actinidiaceae), a new distributional record from India. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 269-62.

Saurauia sinohirsuta J. Q. Li & Soejarto is reported as new distributional record for India from Arunachal Pradesh.

1 illus, 7 ref

003205   Benniamin A;Sundari M S;Kale P;Tripathi D (Botanical Survey of India, Western Regional Centre, Pune-411 001, Email: fernsbenni@gmail.com) : Pteris tripartia Sw. a new record for Maharashtra. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 293-4.

Pteris tripartita sw. is reported for the first time to the fern flora of Maharashtra.

2 illus, 7 ref

003204   Asthana A K;Omar I;Srivastava P (Bryology Laboratory, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow-226 001, Email: drakasthana@rediffmail.com) : Lejeunea minutiloba A. evans, new to bryoflora of South India with a note on its interesting morphoform. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 245-8.

Lejeunea minutiloba A. Evans has been identified in Eastern Ghats region of Tamil Nadu which is a new record for South India. It was earlier reported from Brazil, Bermuda, Cuba, North America, Puerto Rico (Mona Island), ST. Thomas, West Indies and from Eastern Himalaya in India. The taxon is characterized by highly reduced obsolete lobules, small marginal cells of leaf lobe, non connate bracts and bracteole and occurrence of clavate as well as ovoid - oblong perianth exhibiting an interesting transitional morphoform with an affinity with L. cladogyna A. Evans.

1 illus, 32 ref

003203   Alwadi H M;Moustafa M F M (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science, King Khalid Univ, Abha, Saudi Arabia, Email: mfmostfa@kku.edu.sa) : Altitudinal impact on the weeds species distribution in the semi-arid mountainous region of Abha, Saudi Arabia. J Crop Weed 2016, 12(1), 87-95.

Spatial pattern of weeds diversity are often related to local site conditions and to competitive interaction, but topographical landscape complexity may also be important for local weeds species richness. This research is aimed at investigating the effect of elevation change on species' composition, population size and spatial distribution of weeds flora in Abha Governorate, Aseer region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In the present study, a phytosociological study of weeds flora from five localities of abandoned area located at different elevations ranging between 100 and 300 m in Abha city, Aseer region, Saudi Arabia have been investigated by using seven square quadrat at each site. Each site has an area of 196 square meters. Studied sites were visited regularly during 2012-2013. The weeds were assessed quantitatively and obtained data were used to determine the following ecological parameters including prevalence, absolute frequency, relative frequency; absolute density and relative density of weeds flora in each site. Obtained data indicated that at a lower elevation, site A situated 2250 m above sea level, 63 weed species belonging to 24 different families were recorded with three dominant weeds species, Salsola kali, Ricinus communis and Opuntia flcus-indica. In site B, about 2293 m above sea level, 54 weed species belonging to 21 different families were recorded and the most dominant species found were Salsola kali and Rumex nervosus. In site C, about 2550 m above sea level, 50 weed species belonging to 22 different families were recorded and the most dominant species found were Acacia etbaica, and Setaria viridis. In site D, about 2862 m above sea level, 40 weed species belonging to 19 different families were recorded and the most dominant species found were Acacia etbaica and Euphorbia helioscopia. In site E, 2935 m above, sea level, 30 weed species belonging to 15 different families were recorded and Juniperus phoenicea was found to be the most frequently occurring and densely populated weeds. The current study screened the weeds flora at different elevations and found that there is a direct correlation between species distribution and change in the height of surveyed area. The altitude seems to be the most critical ecological factor in determining the richness of vegetation as well as its types.

5 illus, 2 tables, 46 ref

003202   Akhilesh Kumar;Barthwal S;Ginwal H S (Genetics and Tree Propagation Div, Forest Research Institute, P.O.I.P.E. Kaulagarh Road, Dehradun-248 195) : Genomic DNA isolation from old needles of Cedrus deodara (Roxb.) G.don and amplification of nuclear microsatellite markers. Indian J For 2015, 38(3), 215-17.

A reliable and modified protocol based on the CTAB method was developed for DNA extraction from old needles of Cedrus deodara (Roxb.) G.Don. The presence of high concentrations of polysaccharides, polyphenols and other secondary metabolites in C. deodara needles poses problem in getting good quality DNA fit for PCR applications. Used 2.5% PVP for removal of phenolics compound and apply high concentration of sodium chloride to removes polysaccharides. Oils was removed by centrifugation. The yield of extracted DNA was ranged from 35 to 130 μg/100mg fresh weight of the needles with absorbance ratio (A₂₆₀/A₂₈₀) ranged from 1.82 to 2.0. DNA extracted by modified protocol gives positive amplification with PCR using Nuclear Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers. This modified protocol can be used in genomic DNA extraction from closely related species of C. deodara.

2 illus, 14 ref

002303   Waribam A D;Devi A (NO, , ) : Study to assess the effectiveness of structure teaching programme on care of low birth weight neonates among postnatal mothers in a selected hospital at Bangalore. J Nur Sci Pract 2016, 6(2), 1-6.

An experimental and evaluative research approach study was conducted with one group pretest-posttest design to evaluate the effectiveness of the STP on care of low birth weight neonates among postnatal mothers in a selected hospital at Bangalore. The sample composed of 50 postnatal mothers, using simple convenient sampling technique. The tool used for the data collection was structured interview schedule, the content validity of the tool was established by giving it to seven experts and reliability of the tool was determined using correlation formula. The association between variables like occupation, type of family and educational status of postnatal mothers with posttest knowledge scores were found to be significant. Further, family income/month, religion, residence, food habit, age, monthly income were found to be non-significant. The posttest mean knowledge scores on care of low birth weight neonates was higher 79.5% with standard deviation 3.44 when compared with pretest mean knowledge scores values of 46.25% with standard deviation 3.44. Further, the enhancement of mean knowledge was found to be 33.25.

002302   Vimalavady A;Kadavul K (Plant Science Dep, Tagore Arts College, Lawspet, Puducheery-605 008, Email: vimalavady2009@gmail.com) : In vitro antioxidant activity of fruits of Hugonia mystax L. (Linaceae). Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(3), 1224-8.

The plant Hugonia mystax L., is a woody evergreen liana belonging to the family Linaceae, locally knows as Modirakanni. Ethnobotanically the tender fruits were used for rheumatism and biological activities like antimicrobial were reported. Present study find outs the scientifically evidence of fruits of Hugonia mystax for its antioxidant property. The different extract of fruits was obtained by successive extraction with petroleum ether, chloroform and ethanol by soxlet method. These extracts were taken for an in- vitro antioxidant study, was carried out by using various in vitro antioxidant screening models like DPPH radical scavenging activity, total phenolic content was determined. The successive plant extract showed good dose dependent activity by inhibiting DPPH and total phenolic content. Antioxidant activity of fruits showed a greater free radical sequestering activity. In the present study, ethanol extract showed a greater antioxidant activity was found to be 1000 μg/mL expressed as significant antioxidant activity of Hugonia mystax. This might be due to the presence of phytocompounds flavonoids, phenols, saponins, steroids, tannins and terpenoids present in the preliminary phytochemical screening.

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002301   Usha Devi;Dwivedi H;Aminuddin;Zakir M;Khan H (Regional Research Institute of Unani Medicine, Bhadrak-756 100, Odisha) : Traditional phytotherapy of Jajpur forests of Eastern Ghat, Odisha. Hippocratic J Unani med 2016, 11(1), 101-20.

Ethnopharmacological surveys conducted in Jajpur forests of Odisha during 2014 and 2015 have resulted into collection of first-hand data on 68 folk medicinal species belonging to 60 genera and 40 families for treatment and cure of many diseases and conditions. The information on therapeutic uses of plants have been recorded through interviews of forest ethnics and traditional folk healers commonly known as "Vaidyas". Each species enumerated has been provided with the information on plants' scientific name, family, habitat, local name, locality with voucher specimen number, recipe and part(s) used in folk medicine, medical efficacy claimed, mode of administration, name of informant(s) and occurrence. Need for conservation and protection of such species under threat on account of their over-exploitation has been re-stressed. It's likely that data presented will contribute significantly to discover new drugs of natural origin for many of the diseases having no satisfactory cure in modern medicine, thus far.

4 illus

002300   Srinivasan R;Dhanalekshmi U M;Gowri T;Durah S (Bio Organic Lab, CSIR-CLRI Adyar, Chennai-600 020, Tamil Nadu, Email: rajsrini@yahoo.com) : Terminalia paniculata bark extract for antidiabetic activity. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(3), 1331-7.

Terminalia paniculata Roth. (TP) is a tropical tree. Traditionally, flower juice and bark of Terminalia paniculata have been used as a remedy for cholera, for the treatment of diabetes, inflamed parotid glands and in menstrual disorders. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the antidiabetic potential of Terminalia paniculata bark extract in various in-vitro models and its safety evaluation using Wistar albino rats. The in-vitro antidiabetic activity was studied using Alpha amylase, Alpha glucosidase inhibition and Glucose diffusion assay. The nitric oxide radicals scavenging activity was determined using antioxidant assay. Acute and sub acute toxicity studies were designed as per the OECD guidelines- 423. TP extract shows maximum inhibition of 94.5 % on a-Amylase at 700 μg/ml and 94 % on a-Glucosidase at 1000 μg/ml. In glucose diffusion, it showed highest activity at a concentration of 1500 μg/ml. Also, it had excellent nitric oxide scavenging activity and maximum percentage inhibition of 86.12±1.01 was observed at 1500 μg/ml. Acute toxicity study supported the tolerance level even at the dose of 5000 mg/kg body weight and no toxic signs and mortality were observed. The sub acute toxicity studies did not show any significant changes in the body weight and haematological parameters in the TP extract treated groups up to the daily oral dose of 2000 mg/kg body weight. The findings point out the promising effect of Terminalia paniculata Roth. bark as a valuable antidiabetic representative in diabetic complications.

11 ref

002299   Soni U;Brar S;Gauttam V K (Pharmacognosy Dep, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab) : Effect of seasonal variation on secondary metabolites of medicinal plants. Int J pharm Sci Res 2015, 6(9), 2320-5148.

Seasonal fluctuations are periodical series, and have impact on availability of active principles in medicinal plants hence, therapeutic efficacy also get influenced. The survey of several scientific studies published in scientific journals of international repute indicates this fact. The studies reported that essential oil component shows a rhythmic increase in oil production throughout the growing season and then a steady decline towards the winter hence, recommended late summer as the best collection time. In contrast other researchers concluded the winter as a best season for harvesting of essential oils containing plant parts. It is not only essential oil that influenced by the season but other important constituents like polyphenol, flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids etc are also influenced significantly by seasons. There is no general rule for the harvesting time for better yield of specific secondary metabolites. Although several studies have been published indicating the effect of seasons on secondary metabolites but there is no compiled information representing the optimized season for the collection of pharmaceutically important constituents from different plant sources. Therefore, present review has been targeted the information of best possible season for the harvesting of plant material for the maximum output with respect to pharmaceutically important chemicals from the plants.

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002298   Singh S;Singh G;Pal S L;Singh S;Tyagi S (Plant Pathology Dep, SVPUA&T, Meerut-250 110, Email: satpal.singh1794@gmail.com) : Effect of environment conditions (pH, temperature and media) on radial growth of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus djamor). Hortflora Res Spectrum 2016, 5(4), 320-4.

In India, oyster mushrooms are particularly interesting as one kind of popular foods. The present study was conducted with the aim of finding out the most favourable temperature, pH and different media on radial growth rate were assessed on potato dextrose agar medium (PDA). Study was carried out to check the effect of temperature (23 - 28°C), pH (6.9 - 8.1) and different media (Potato dextrose agar, Chickpea extract agar, Pigeon pea extract agar, Barley extract, Black gram extract agar, and Oat extract agar) on the radial growth of Pleurotus djamor. Optimum temperature and pH for growth was 28°C and 7.5, respectively. Maximum radial growth was observed when Barley extract agar was used as media.

3 tables, 14 ref

002297   Singh K (NO, , ) : Effectiveness of STP on knowledge regarding prevention of vitamin A and D deficiency in children among mothers of children below five years. J Nur Sci Pract 2016, 6(2), 33-7.

The present study was aimed to assess the effectiveness of structured teaching programme (STP) on knowledge regarding prevention of vitamin A and D deficiency in children among the mothers of under-five children in selected rural areas. The sample size was 60 mothers of under-five children. The sample was selected by nonprobability convenience sampling technique. The tools used were demographic proforma and structured knowledge questionnaire. The major findings of the study shows that the overall knowledge mean posttest score (25.33+/-1.91) of mothers were significantly higher than the mean pretest score (16.00+/-1.91) and computed paired`t' value (87.42) was higher than the table value (2.000) at P<0.05 level of significance, which proved that the STP was effective. The study also found that there was a significant association between the levels of knowledge with selected demographic variables. There was statistically significant improvement in the mothers knowledge score after the implementation of STP on prevention of selected vitamin deficiency disorders.

002296   Sharanappa R;Vidyasagar G M (Medicinal Plants and Microbiology Research Laboratory, Post-Graduate S, Gulbarga Univ, Kalaburagi-585 106, Email: gmvidyasagar@rediffmail.com) : Preliminary screening of ethnomedicinal plants for antibacterial activity. Int J pharm Sci Res 2015, 6(9), 3928-35.

Based on the ethno botanical survey and the related literature, 285 solvent extracts from 57 ethno medicinal plants belonging to 55 genera and 34 families were subjected to preliminary screening for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis using agar well diffusion method at concentrations of 5 & 2.5 mg/ml. Among 285 plant extracts, some exhibited very effective activity, some exhibited effective activity, some exhibited moderate and some exhibited weak activity and no activity was observed in some extracts against E. coli and B. subtilis. Among the plants tested, maximum activity was observed in all the solvents extracts of Argemone mexicana, Allium sativum, Lantana camara, Tephrosia purpurea and Withania somnifera. The results of the present study indicate that the extracts of different parts of 57 ethnomedicinal plants have more potential of antibacterial activity and are concentration dependent. The demonstration of broad spectrum of the above said 5 plants may help to discover new chemical classes of antibiotic substances that could serve as selective agents for infectious disease chemotherapy and control.

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002295   Sarkar S;Chaudhuri S (Botany Dep, Ramananda College, Bishnupur, Bankura-722 101, Email: shamayeeta_s@gmail.com) : Bacterial wilt and its management. Curr Sci 2016, 110(8), 1439-45.

Identification of the cause of disease is the most important step towards its eradication, cure and management. India being an agro-based country, plant diseases alone cause immense economic loss to the tune of rupees 500 crores every year. In this study, we focus on reportedly one of the most devastating diseases called bacterial wilt. Though each bacterial type has a set of host range, recent study shows frequent overlapping of susceptible host plants. Besides, several new species have been identified in recent times that cause wilt in plants. There are lots of similarities in the disease manifestation and molecular identification has been quite effective in proper identification of the pathogens. In this study, management of wilt mainly briefs the methods adopted against Ralstonia solanacearum. Other than physical and chemical methods, management of the disease by use of antagonistic bacteria and fungi has been found to be the recent trend.

1 table, 85 ref

002294   Rajkumar K;Shubharani R;Sivaram V (NO, V. Sivaram Research Foundation, <35>132, Rajarajeswarinagar, Bangalore-560 056, Email: shubharani.bolar19@gmail.com ) : Phytochemical screening and antioxidant activity of leaves and stem bark extracts of Garcinia imberti-an endangered plant. Int J pharm Sci Res 2015, 6(9), 4016-21.

Garcinia imberti Bourd. a critically endangered tree belongs to the family Clusiaceae found only in India. The phytochemicals and antioxidant studies were carried out for the methanolic extracts of Garcinia imberti leaves and stem bark using DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assay. Preliminary phytochemical screening of methanolic extracts of Garcinia imberti revealed the presence of various bioactive components like alkaloids, flavanoids, steroids, glycosides, phenols, saponins, terpenoids, resins, carbohydrates and tannins in both leaves and stem bark. The quantitative analysis of phytochemicals of the extracts showed the presence of high amount of tannins (0.92 ± 0.23mg/gm) and alkaloids (0.83 ± 0.48mg/gm) in leaf and high concentration of flavanoids (0.65±0.16mg/gm) and tannins (0.78±1.12mg/gm) in bark extract. The result of the present study concluded that the methanolic extracts of Garcinia imberti leaves and stem bark possess antioxidant activity due to the presence of significant amount of phenolic compounds which are the major contributors of antioxidant activity. The finding of this study suggests that the studied plant is a potential source of natural antioxidant that could have great importance as therapeutic agents in preventing or slowing the progress of oxidative stress related degenerative diseases.

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002293   Parthasarathy U;Nandakishore O P (NO, Indian Institute of Spices Research, Calicut-673 012, Email: utpala_p@yahoo.com) : Garcinia bark exudates- an important phytochemical source. Curr Sci 2016, 110(9), 1617-1.

2 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

002292   Negi K;Mustafa A;Mahaesh Chandra;Asim S M (Drug Standardization Research Unit (CCRUM), PLIM Building, Kamla Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad-201 002) : Pharmacog-nostical standardization of 'Mushkdana' seed (Abelmoschus moschatus Medic). Hippocratic J Unani med 2016, 11(1), 163-70.

Mushkdana which is botanically identified as Abelmoschus moschatus Medic. (syn. Hibiscus abelmoschus Linn.) is an important medicinal plant of lndian traditional systems of medicine. The plant is cultivated for its musk-scented seeds, useful in perfumery and medicine. The seeds also known as Ambrette seeds are valued for the volatile oil present in the seed coat. They have been used as a tonic, stimulant, carminative, as flavouring agent for food and as a substitute for musk. Present paper deals with the pharmacognostical standardization of Muskhkdana seed, unstudied so far, in order to lay down the standards for its quality assurance. The study includes macro and microscopic features of the drug, besides maceration, powder analysis, measurement of cells/ tissues, reaction with different chemical reagents and fluorescence analysis of the crude drug powder. Other parameters worked out are physiochemical constants such as ash value, alcohol and water soluble matter and thin layer chromatography.

3 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

002291   Modi R K;Seetharam;Mathad Y N P (Botany Dep, Government Degree College, Gulbarga, Karnataka, Email: samarsen2001@rediffmail.com) : In vitro antimicrobial screening of a few ethno-medicinal plants of mimosoideae of Gulbarga-Karnatka, India. Int J Pharm Life Sci 2016, 7(1), 4860-3.

In vitro antimicrobial activities of ethanol extracts of eight taxa belonging to Mimosoideae which are extensively used by folk and traditional practitioners of Gulbarga of Karnataka State were screened against few pathogenic bacteria and fungi by agar-well diffusion method. Among the various plant screened, Mimosa hamata exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis and antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus. Similarly, Acacia nilotica, Acacia chundra and Albizzia lebbeck showed good antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis whereas M. hamata against Escherichia coli.

2 tables, 7 ref

002290   Mallick P;Ghosh S;Chattaraj S;Sikdar S R (Plant Biology Div, Bose Institute, P-1/12, C.I.T., Scheme VII M, Kolkata-700 054, Email: samir@jcbose.ac.in) : Isolation of mesophyll protoplast from Indian mulberry (Morus alba L) CV. S₁₆₃₅. J envir Sociobiol 2016, 13(2), 217-22.

Mulberry (Morus alba L. cv S1635) is a perennial crop plant in Indian sericulture and used for silkworm Bombyx mori L. feeding. Qualitative and quantitative improvement of this crop is highly essential in respect to better and quality silk production and hence through breeding approaches the development of new lines is important. Protoplasts are the good source of any plant to study about their genetics and cellular mechanisms for breeding. Using cell wall degradating enzymes mulberry protoplasts from mesophyll tissue were isolated. Several combinations of cellulose, macerozyme and driselase enzymes mixture were tested in different incubation conditions. A combination of Cellulase R10-1%, Macerozyme R10-1% and Driselase-0.25% in 0.6M mannitol showed comparatively better yield (3.8 x 106 / gm tissue) after 3-4 hrs shaking with 100 rpm at 28°C.

1 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

002289   Malik T R;Tajuddin;RahmanA (Saidla Dep, A.K. Tibbiya College, Aligarh Muslim College, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh-202 002) : Standardization and evaluation of antibacterial activity of some unani drugs. Hippocratic J Unani med 2016, 11(1), 61-77.

Microorganisms have developed resistance due to indiscriminate use of many antibiotics which are also associated with severe adverse effects. To overcome these problems plants and their products provides a better substitute for treating infectious diseases. Afsanteen (Artemisia absenthium), flowers of Banafshah (Viola odorata) and Bisheri booti (Aerva lanata) are used in Unani System of Medicine since long time either as single drug or in compound formulation. All the three drugs were screened for antibacterial activity against different strains of gram positive and gram negative bacteria such as Bacillus sp. Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes Escherichia coli, Citrobacter sp., Klebsiella sp. Salmonella typhimurium and Proteus sp. etc. The Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of these crude drugs were used to determine antibacterial activity by disc-agar diffusion technique at four concentration levels (100, 50, 25 and 12.5μg/disc) and compared with standard drug ciprofloxacin at concentration of 5 μg/disc. Zone of Inhibition was taken as the parameter for the assessment of antibacterial activity. Of all the drugs tested, the alcoholic extract of Viola odorata was found to be the most active against Salmonella typhimurium at the doses of 50 and 100μg/disc. Furthermore, before testing these drugs for antimicrobial activity, their samples were also checked for authenticity based on certain physico-chemical parameters.)

1 illus, 7 tables, 44 ref

002288   Maity P;Chakraborty S;Ghosh A;Ahmed N (NO, , ) : Effectiveness of preprocedural demonstration of venepuncture on pain in children at a selected hopsital, Kolkata, West Bengal. J Nur Sci Pract 2016, 6(2), 48-62.

The investigator conducted a quasi-experimental study with nonequivalent posttest only control group research design with preprocedural demonstration of venepuncture therapy among 30 children who required venepuncture after admission in the pediatric ward at the Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, India and was selected by nonprobability purposive sampling technique. The objectives of the study were to find out the effectiveness of preprocedural demonstration of venepuncture in terms of changes of pain between experimental group and control group. The investigator used a standardized tool that is Wong Baker's FACES pain rating scale after 2-3 min of venepuncture for assessing the pain. The study results revealed that preprocedural demonstration of venepuncture therapy was effective (t value 7.09) at 0.05 level of significance. The study has implication in the field of nursing practice, education, administration and research.

002287   Maiti R K;Singh V P (Chemistry and Biology Dep, Universidad de la Americas, Puebla, Mexico, Email: ratikanta.maiti@gmail.com) : Biodiversity of cactus biology. Crop Res 2016, 51(1-3), 1-15.

Cactus occupies dominant species in a desert which are mostly endangered owing to illegal human activities. There is a necessity of development of efficient technique for its germination and propagation. The present paper makes a review of research undertaken by Maiti and his team in highlands of Puebla. This deals with variability in seed morphology, technique of germination and seedling establishment, phenology, propagation and conservation and formation of a germplasm bank. These techniques can be utilized in the propagation and conservation of cactus species elsewhere.

20 illus, 1 table, 48 ref

002286   Loomba G;Rupinder Kaur;Shabnam G M;Navpreet Kaur;Samson A;Mall R;Chauhan R;Malviya S (NO, , ) : Study to explore ageing related preparendness among the employees of a selected hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab. J Nur Sci Pract 2016, 6(2), 7-12.

Life is always in a state of perpetual change. The two types of changes that people experience over lifetime may often be described as biological and sociogenic ageing. Ageing in humans refers to a multidimensional process of physical, psychological and social change. A need was felt to study the preparedness of middle aged individuals in job; how much are they ready to meet the needs and challenges of ageing. The non-interventional exploratory approach was used and purposive sampling with interview method, was used for data collection. The findings showed that 80% employees were highly prepared for ageing. The variables that significantly influenced the ageing related preparedness were found to be the education of employees. Researchers concluded that majority of the employees were prepared for ageing.

002285   Kumari R (NO, , ) : Assessment of knowledge and skills of nursing personnel working in NICU and delivery room of selected tertiary care hospital of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. J Nur Sci Pract 2016, 6(2), 21-7.

Competency in neonatal resuscitation is critical in the delivery rooms and neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) to ensure the safety and health of neonates. Each year, millions of babies do not breathe immediately at birth and among them the majority requires basic neonatal resuscitation. Neonatal resuscitation is effective only when health professionals have sufficient knowledge and skills. The present study was to assess the knowledge and skills of health professionals about neonatal resuscitation. The present study was aimed to assess the knowledge and skill of nursing personnel working in NICU and delivery room of selected tertiary care hospital regarding standardized neonatal resuscitation protocol and to find out the relation between them. An institution-based, cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted in tertiary care hospital of Lucknow, U.P., India. All nurses from delivery room and NICU were included in the study. The mean scores of knowledge and skills were assessed on neonatal resuscitation protocol. Results were analysed by using chi-square test to find the association. Fifty nursing personnel participated in the present study. The overall mean scores of knowledge of subjects were 11 (SD-4.1827), whereas the mean scores of skill were 27.28 (SD 1.4578, CV 5.3429). The knowledge and skill levels of nursing personnel were substandardized. There was significant difference in knowledge and skill score after teaching. Continuous teaching and training on neonatal resuscitation for nursing personnel should be emphasized.

002284   Kebede S (NO, , ) : Adherence level to iron folic acid supplementation and associated factors among pregnant women in Mekele city, Tigray, Ethiopia. J Nur Sci Pract 2016, 6(2), 13-20.

The aim of this study was to assess the adherence level to iron folic acid supplementation and its associated factors among pregnant women. Relation of explanatory variables with adherence levels was examined using bivariate analysis without adjusting the effect of other factors. Finally, logistic regression was conducted to see the net effect of each variable by adjusting to the rest of the variables. Adherence level in this study was 59.8%. Educational level, perception of getting benefit, family approval and number of tablets received were significantly associated with the adherence level toward iron folic acid supplementation. The adherence level to iron folic acid supplementation in this study was moderate with educational level, number of supplements received, and perception of benefited and family approval playing an important role. Counseling both, pregnant women and her family, regarding the side effects and its importance can further improve the adherence to iron folic acid supplementation during pregnancy.

002283   Kalaivanan M;Jesudoss L L;Ganthi A S; Subramanian M P S (Botany Dep, St. Xavier's College, Palaymkottai, Tamil Nadu, Email: saran_gan@rediffmail.com) : Pharmacognostical studies on Tragia plukenetti R. Smith. Int J Pharmac 2016, 3(1), 50-4.

The global market for herbal products is exploding. The major hindrance in the amalgamation of herbal medicines into modern medical practices is the lack of scientific and clinical data, and better understanding of efficacy and safety of the herbal products. The evaluation or standardization of a crude drug involves Pharmacognostic methods such as organological, physico- chemical, phytochemical and pharmacological analysis. The experimental material selected for the present study is Tragia plukenetii R. Smithbelongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. This herb is distributed in hill slopes of southern peninsular India. The root is diaphoretic and alterative and is given for fevers to cause perspiration. The present paper deals with anatomical characters of leaf, stem and roots. The dried powders of stem, leaves and roots and their extracts in various solvents were examined with ordinary light and U.V. light (365nm). Quantitative determination such as moisture content, total ash, water-soluble ash, acid insoluble ash, water extractive values and sulphated ash have also been made. Preliminary phytochemical analysis of the extracts was done and the results showed that tannins, steroids, triterpenoids and phenols were predominantly present in all the extracts.

3 tables, 15 ref

002282   Gangopadhyay G (Plant Biology Div, Bose Institute (Main Campus), 93/1 APC Road, Kolkata-700 009, Email: gaurab@jcbose.ac.in) : From tolerance to disease resistance in mulberry: Need for efficient phenomic and molecular selection tools. J envir Sociobiol 2016, 13(2), 163-8.

Development of disease resistant genotype is the most viable strategy for integrated disease management of mulberry. Breeding for the superior genotype of mulberry has an urgent need for the intervention of efficient selection tool to screen a large number of genotypes efficiently. Newly emerging phenomic techniques can be employed for rapid detection by leaf surface architecture. Furthermore, development of candidate-gene based molecular marker will more enrich the mulberry biotic stress breeding program.

1 illus, 17 ref

002281   Farid-ul-Haq;et al (NO, Univ of Veterinary and Animal Sciences(UVAS), Lahore, Pakistan, Email: tahiryaqub@uvas.edu.pk ) : Antimicrobial and wound healing properties of human saliva. Int J Pharm Life Sci 2016, 7(2), 4911-7.

To observe antiviral activity of human saliva against Avian Influenza strain H9N2, and comparison of antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus in healthy and diabetic human individuals, and saliva's wound healing effects on wounded rabbits.Study was conducted in the Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, and Department of Microbiology at University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore. Total of 64 human saliva samples were collected from both sexes. Total of 8 male and female samples (4 diabetic and 4 non-diabetic) were taken from each age range consisting of: 15-25, 25-35, 35-45, 45-55. Antiviral activity of saliva from nondiabetic individuals was observed against Avian Influenza Virus Pk-UDL/01/08 H9N2. Antimicrobial activity of diabetic and non-diabetic samples against Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus was observed through agar well and disk diffusion methods. Wound healing of healthy saliva was tested against 30 fully grown adult male rabbits of which 24 rabbits were experimental (saliva applied on induced wound), 3 acted as negative control to check natural wound healing, and 3 were positive control (wound healing medicine was applied).The study showed that antimicrobial activity of human saliva against C. albicans, Staph. aureus and AIV H9N2 was dependent on age of individual with age range 25-35 giving optimum results. Wound healing ability also followed similar trend. Antimicrobial and wound healing ability decreased with increase in age while no antimicrobial activity was shown in saliva of diabetic individuals.Healthy human saliva possesses natural antimicrobial and wound healing abilities.

10 illus, 17 ref

002280   Devi K M;Mehta S K (Botany Dep, Mizoram Univ, Aizawal-796 004, Email: dmeerabai6@gmail.com) : Antimicrobial activities of freshwater cyanobacterium, nostoc sp. from tamdil wetland of Mizoram, India: An identification of bioactive compounds by GC-MS. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(3), 1179-91.

A freshwater microalga, Nostoc sp. isolated from Tamdil Wetland of Mizoram was tested for its algicidal, antibacterial and antifungal activity. Extracts were prepared with methanol, ethanol:water and dichloromethane:isopropanol and tested for their antimicrobial activity against nine microorganisms comprising of three chlorophycean algae (Chlorella vulgaris, Scenedesmus quadricauda and Selenastrum capricornatum), one cyanobacterium (Anabaena variabilis), three bacterial strains (Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus pumilus and Escherichia coli) and two fungal strains (Fusarium udum and Fusarium culmorum). Among the three extracts tested the methanol extract was found most effective on algal test organisms. The highest (60%) inhibitory effect was observed against A. variabilis by methanol extract followed by 31% inhibition by dichloromethane:isopropanol. When tested on bacterial strains, the highest inhibition zone (23.67±1.58mm) was observed in B. subtilis by dichloromethane:isopropanol extract followed by ethanol:water extract. In case of fungal activity, the highest inhibition zone (11.00±0.58mm) was observed in F. culmorum by dichloromethane:isopropanol extract and the rest of the extracts showed almost similar effect. MICs of each extract on all the organisms varied. The extracts were further analysed by UV-VIS Spectrophotometer, which reveals the presence of active compounds. Among the three extracts, methanol indicated the highest percentage inhibition and also obtained highest absorption spectra. So, this extract was analysed by GC-MS and we identified the presence of main components in the extract as 1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono (2-ethylhexyl) ester, Phytol, n-Hexadecanoic acid, 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid, etc. Further study for purification of the potent compound will explain their usefulness in pharmaceutical and biotechnological industry.

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