001210   Garg A;Joshi B (Botanical Survey of India, Central Regional Centre, 10 Chatham Lines, Allahabad-211 002, Email: kad_arti396@yahoo.com) : Nawabgunj Bird Sanctuary-a versatile miniature wetland ecosystem. Geophytology 2015, 45(2), 201-8.

Phytodiversity and microclimate of the Nawabgunj Bird Sanctuary in Unnao district, Uttar Pradesh is assessed and its impact on the strength of bird population and ingression model is studied in reference to the sanctuary management. A total number of 219 angiospermous species under 150 genera belonging to 68 families were recorded with rich concentration of aquatic plants. Economically and medicinally useful plants were also well represented while there were 87 species of invasive alien elements. Occurrence of Acacia nilotica (L.) Willd. ex Delile and Prosopis juliflora (Swartz.) DC. within pond islands was instrumental in attracting the Asian openbill storks as they use it for making nests.

7 illus, 26 ref

001209   Duarah I;Hazarika D (Biotech Hub, D.R. College, Golaghat, Assam, Email: ipduarah@gmail.com) : Isolation and characterization of fungi associated with traditional starter Bhekur pitha used for rice beer production by Ahom tribe of Assam. Adv Pl Sci 2016, 29(1), 137-42.

The study aimed to isolate and characterize the fungi associated with the Bhekur pitha (fungal rice cake, the traditional starter culture) use to produce rice beer by Ahom tribe of Assam, India. Survey was done how traditional rice beer, Xajpaniis prepared using Bhekur pitha as saccharifying agent. In this traditional method, fungi and other microbes are grown on Bhekur pitha that inhibit the growth of other deleterious microbes. In vitro fermentation of rice was done with Bhekur pitha and commercially available baker's yeast, separately. The physicochemical properties of both the fermented rice liquor were evaluated. Significantly higher (p<60>0.5) alcoholic content, purified alcohol and yield were recorded in rice liquor (Xajpani) using traditional Bhekur pitha as compared to the rice liquor using baker's yeast. Comparatively high pH of Xajpani indicated the conversion of higher amount organic acid into alcohol. Microscopic observation of the fungus isolated from the starter culture showed budding, indicated the presence of Sacchawmyces species (Yeast).

2 tables, 13 ref

001208   Devender R;Ramakrishna H (Botany Dep, College of Science Univ, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: devender.bot@gmail.com) : Palynodiversity in Trigona honeys from Paderu forest division of Visakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Geophytology 2015, 45(2), 221-6.

Melissopalynological study of seventeen Trigona honey samples, collected from Paderu Forest Division in Visakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh provides data regarding forage plants for Trigona honey bees during summer and winter seasons of 2013. Based on palynological analysis, five samples are identified as unifloral with predominant pollen types, viz. Psidium guajava (81%), Corchorus fascicularis (49%), Ageratum conyzoides (57%), Trichilia connaroides (86%) and Guazuma ulmifolia (50%) and the remaining twelve samples as multifloral. Altogether, seventy-two pollen types, referable to forty families, were identified. Of these, 7 species belong to Asteraceae, 5 species to Malvaceae and 4 species to Mimosaceae.

1 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

001207   Deora G S;Guhil N (Botany Dep, New Campus, Jai Narain Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 005, Email: gsdbiotech04@gmail.com) : Antifungal potential of Bryum cellulare (a moss) crude extracts against spore germination of fungus Curvularia lunata. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(1), 353-7.

Chemical protection plays a decisive role in the resistance of plants against various pathogens and their spore germination. The so-called secondary metabolites which are a characteristic feature of plants and are important to protect plants against a wide variety of microorganisms including fungi. In order to this, the present study was carried out to evaluate the antifungal potential of Bryum cellulare aqueous and ethanolic crude extracts against percentage inhibition of spore germination and hyphal length of test fungi Curvularia lunata, the causal organism of leaf spot of Zea mays. The preliminary tests showed that flavanoid, sterols and terpenoids etc are present in the test plant. Further various concentrations of crude extracts of aqueous and ethanolic form were tested against spore germination and hyphal length of C.lunata through hanging drop method. The results showed that all the extracts posses a significant antifungal potential but highest inhibition of percentage in spore germination was observed in ethanolic extract of B.cellulare. The percentage of spore germination was 60.43 and 15.20 in 10 and 100 per cent concentration of the extract respectively in comparison to control i.e. 110.46 per cent. In aqueous it was 85.13 and 33.26 in 10 and 100 per cent concentration in comparison to its respective control.

18 ref

001206   Chauhan M S;Gautam S;Awatar R (NO, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, 53 Univ Road, Lucknow-226 007, Email: mschauhan_2000@yahoo.com) : Vegetation and environment around Birsinghpur-Pali, Umaria district, Madhya Pradesh during recent past, based on pollen and fungal evidence. Geophytology 2016, 46(1), 57-66.

Pollen analysis of 90 cm deep sediment profile from Birsinghpur-Pali, Umaria District has revealed that in the beginning of the pollen sequence (Pollen Zone BP-I) encompassing a time span of approximately 350 to 175 years BP or so the area supported open vegetation largely comprising grasses, members of Asteraceae, Chenopodiaceae, etc. together with scattered trees viz., Madhuca indica, Syzygium, Holoptelea, Symplocos, Emblica officinalis, Acacia and Grewia under a warm and less-humid climate than today. Open vegetation is also substantiated by the abundance of fungal spore Nigrospora together with Curvularia, Tetraploa, Diplocladiella, Microthyriiiceae cf. Micmthyium, Cookeina, etc. since majority of them infect mainly the herbaceous plants. The retrieval of aquatic plants viz., Potamogeton, Typha and algal remains in low frequencies signifies the presence of a few ponds and small water bodies around the study site. This is also corroborated by the frequent encounter of mycorrhizal fungus; Glomus, which inhabits commonly the erosion prone lake bed. Subsequently since 175 years onwards (Pollen Zone BP-II), there was a reduction in the number of trees and they were trivially represented by Madhuca indica, Bombax ceiba, Syzygium and Grewia only. The ground flora also dwindled, though it was still dominated by grasses. The fungal diversity also declined, excepting the preponderance of Nigrospora and Cookeina. This depletion in the overall arboreals (trees & shrubs) and non-arboreals (herbs) elucidates that the deterioration of climate, probably on account of further reduction in precipitation. However, the encounter of crop land weeds such as Chenopodiaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Cannabis saliva, etc. suggests intensive human activities in the region.

2 illus, 18 ref

001205   Bhangare P;Bhosale A M;Pawar V;Jadhav P (Biotechnology Dep, Padmashree Dr. D.Y. Patil College, Pimpri, Pune) : Manifold uses of taro [Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott]. Adv Pl Sci 2016, 29(1), 135-36.

Taro is common name used for several vegetables belonging to family Aracaceae. Among these Colocasia esculanta is widely cultivated for its edible starchy corms and leaves. It is important staple food of African, Oceanic and Indian people but they are not aware of its multidisciplinary benefits. Therefore, present study survey is aimed to generate awareness of taro among the people with its nutritional, medicinal, economic values and health benefits. In India it is used as traditional medicine from long back and sold as an ornamental aquatic plant. The leaves are rich source of vitamins and minerals. They contain substantial amount of vitamin A and C and better source of protein than the root. It improves digestion, lowers blood sugar level, prevents cancer, protects the skin, boosts vision health, increases blood circulation, decreases blood pressure, aids immune system, prevents heart diseases, and supports muscle and nerve health. Taro roots are also a source of organic compounds, minerals and vitamins essential for human health. It contains significant amount of dietary fibers, carbohydrates, high levels of vitamins A, C, E, B6, folate and minerals viz. magnesium, iron, zinc, phosphorous, potassium, manganese, and copper. The plant roots contain protein almost in negligible amount. Despite its importance as a popular edible tuber crop very little attention has been paid on its genetic improvement.

14 ref

001204   Behera S K;Mishra S;Singh L J (Botanical Survey of India, Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre, Port Blair-744 102, Email: 16.sandip@gmail.com) : Adiantum latifolium Lam. (Adiantaceae): an addition to pteridophytic flora of Andaman and Nicobar islands, India. Geophytology 2015, 45(2), 261-4.

Adiantum latifolium Lam. is being reported as new record for the pteridophytic flora of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The description, key to the species and photographs have been provided to differentiate this species from other Adiantum species occurring in these Islands.

12 ref

001203   Basu M;Pal P K (Botany Dep, M.U.C. Women's College, Burdwan-713 104, Email: pkpalbot@gmail.com) : Post-pollination developments and seed ecology of Abroma augusta (L.) L. f.]. Geophytology 2016, 46(1), 89-97.

The paper deals with the post-pollination developments and seed ecology of Abroma augusta (L.) L.f., a valuable medicinal plant belonging to the family Sterculiaceae. The plant bears pendulous flowers in axillary scorpioid cymes close to the apices of slender branches. Loculicidally dehiscent capsular fruits are produced from the flowers. The overall fruit-set percentage of the species is about 16.61%, which is quite low. Since the day of pollination to mature into its state of dehiscence, a fruit requires about 32 to 49 days and that varies in different months of the flowering season. The number of healthy seeds per fruit varies from 64 to 216.75, in different months of the flowering season. The Indian squirrel Funambulus palmarum is seen to feed on the soft, tender seeds of undehisced or freshly t dehisced fruits of the plant, thereby acting as a seed predator. Maturity of embryo in a seed is acquired prior to the attainment of seed coat maturity. Seeds of freshly dehisced fruits are with soft seed coat. Such seeds occasionally exhibit viviparous germination during the rainy seasons. Once the seeds become mature, a coat-imposed primary dormancy develops in them. Scarification with H₂SO₄ is required for their germination.

4 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

001202   Bansal P;Srivastava A;Nath V (Botany Dep, Lucknow Univ, Lucknow-226 007, Email: pooja07_ag@rediffmail.com) : Occurrence of Ganguleea angulosa (Broth. & Dix.) Zand. in India. Geophytology 2015, 45(2), 273-6.

The paper describes the occurrence of Ganguleea angulosa (Broth. & Dix.) Zand. for the first time from Gangetic Plains of India, where it was found growing over stony walls and bricks in Luckno w district, Uttar Pradesh. Previously the species was reported under the name Weisiopsis angulosa (Broth. & Dix.) Hilp, from Himalayan regions only. A brief description of the species along with status of Weisiopsis and Ganguleea is described.

11 ref

001201   Bajpai R;Shukla P;Upreti D K (NO, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow-226 001, Email: bajpai_r17@rediffmail.com) : New records to Indian lichen flora. Geophytology 2015, 45(2), 269-72.

During field excursions in different regions of India, a number of interesting lichen species were collected. The identification of the specimens revealed occurrence of Amandinea subduplicata (Vain.) Marbach, Graphis crebra Vain., Graphis nuda (Magn.) Staiger & Lucking, Lecanora subjaponica L. Lu & H. Y. Wang and Solorina spongiosa (Ach.) Anzi., as new additions to Indian lichen flora.

5 illus, 6 ref

000180   Zvyagina N S;Dorogina O V;Krasnikov A A (NO, Central Siberian Botanical Garden of the Siberian Brunch of the Russia, Novosibirsk-630 090, Email: nszvyagina@gmail.com) : Genetic differentiation and karyotype variation in Hedysarum chaiyrakanicum, an endemic species of Tuva Republic, Russia. Indian J expl Biol 2016, 54(5), 338-44.

Overgrazing and mining affect vegetation, particularly in mountains. At times, it goes to such an extent that the plant species become vulnerable and slowly extinct from its habitat. Such endemic species need to be protected. One such endemic species Hedysarum chaiyrakanicum Kurbatsky, a vulnerable steppe vegetation of Tuva Republic, Russia was evaluated for its genetic diversity and taxonomic definition using molecular technique and chromosome number adjustment. The genetic differentiation among H. chaiyrakanicum, H. setigerum Turcz. and H. gmelinii Ledeb. genotypes was determined using five inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers and then examined with Nei's genetic distance coefficient (D) and Shannon's information index (H). A total of 134 reproducible bands were detected with polymorphism percentage of 98%. The genetic diversity of H. chaiyrakanicum was found to be 0.343 while the Shannon index H_sp was determined as 8.06. The chromosome number 2n = 16 is newly observed within the H. chaiyrakanicum. The genetic relationship based on ISSR data supported the taxonomic distinction of H. chaiyrakanicum from H. setigerum and H. gmelinii. We recommend both in situ and ex situ conservation strategies, specially germplasm sampling, to save this endemic species.

3 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

000179   Waghmare B M (Botany Research Centre, Botany Dep, Maharashtra Mahavidyalaya, Nilanga, Dist. Latur-413 521) : Zearalenone production by fusarium graminearum. Bioinfolet 2016, 13(4), 645-6.

The production of Zearalenone increased with corresponding increase in pH of the culture medium. Czapek's Dox agar supported production of Zearalenone followed by Sorghum, Maize and Rice flour agar media at 30 to 35°C.

3 tables, 8 ref

000178   Sripathy K V;Joshi M A;Parihar S S;Manjunath Prasad C T (ICAR- Directorate of Seed Research, , Mau-275 103) : Comparative seed morphology among four taxa of Genus commelina. Bioinfolet 2016, 13(4), 670-2.

Seed morphology of four commonly occurring taxa from genus Commelina (C. benghalensis C. auriculata C. diffusa and C. for skaolii) was studied to facilitate botanical identification. Seed surface ornamentation among them e.g. deep angled reticulations in C. auriculata; rough irregular pittings in C. benghalensis; slight minor pitted surface in C. diffusa and absence of reticulation in C. forskaolii and occurrence of attached appendages only in C. diffusa possessed most accurate and reliable morphological descriptors for identification.

1 illus, 9 ref

000177   Sharma M;Kapatia A;Kulshrestha S (Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini Univ of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Bajhol, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, Email: saurabh_kul2000@yahoo.co.in) : Analysis of genetic diversity amongst Fusarium spp. associated with root rot of apple. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 463-8.

The Genus Fusariumis associated with crop diseases of horticultural and agricultural commodities and is considered to be a destructive pathogen.Geneticdiversity among ten different isolates of Fusarium species isolated from apple rhizosphere from different locations of Himachal Pradesh was analysed using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD-PCR). Molecular characterization using ITS sequencing revealed that out of 10isolates ofFusarium, three belongs toF.oxysporum, two belongs to F.solani,one belongs to F. equiseti and four wereFusariumspecies. Seven random primers were used for their genetic characterization using RAPD analysis. The dendrogram obtained from the UPGMA study characterized ten isolates into one main cluster and nine independent branches on the basis of similarity value 0.65.

2 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

000176   Shaista A;Amrita P (Pharmacetical Chemistry Dep, Delhi Pharmaceutical Science and Research Univ, New Delhi) : Delicate, fragrant, lady of the night-a medicinal gift. J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(6), 11-17.

Night blooming jasmine, botanically known as Cestrum nocturnum is an evergreen shrub that grows in tropical and sub-tropical regions throughout the world. Cestrum nocturnum is a popular ornamental plant due to its showy and fragrant white flowers. It is also used as a hedge plant and cultivated as a medicinal plant. The medicinal properties of night blooming jasmine include antioxidant, anti-hyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective, analgesic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-convulsant, anti-HIV and larvicidal activities. The present paper reviews the geographical distribution, history, cultivation, uses, side effects, synonyms, botanical description, taxonomical classification, phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities.

7 tables, 32 ref

000175   Refaat J;Desoukey S Y;Ramadan M A;Kamel M S (Pharmacognosy Dep, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia Univ, 61519 Minia, Egypt, Email: Johnrefaat82@yahoo.com) : Rhoifolin: a review of sources and biological activities. Int J Pharmac 2015, 2(3), 102-09.

Flavonoids are common plant constituents used extensively in phytomedicine to treat a wide range of diseases. Many pharmacological evidences suggest that flavonoids may play an important role in the decreased risk of chronic diseases associated with a diet rich in plant-derived foods. Therefore, this article focuses on the chemistry, distribution and pharmacological properties of rhoifolin as one of the common and important flavonoids in the plant kingdom. This flavonoid has been also found in several dietary sources such as bitter orange, bergamot, grapefruit, lemon, lupinus, lablab beans, tomatoes, artichoke, bananas and grapes. Preclinical studies have shown that rhoifolin possesses a variety of significant biological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective and anticancer effects. Literature search was conducted using electronic databases (e.g. Medline, Pubmed, Academic Journals and Springer Link), general web searches were also undertaken using Google applying some related search, journals and scientific theses. The bibliographies of papers relating to the review subject were also searched for further relevant references.

1 illus, 1 table, 68 ref

000174   Rao S S R;Raghu K (Botany Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad, Telangana) : Amelioration of lead toxicity by 24-epibrassinolide in rose-scented geranium [Pelargonium graveolens (L.) Herit], a potential agent for phytoremediation. J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(6), 6-8.

Effect of 24-epibrassinolide (EBL) on the growth of rose-scented geranium [Pelargonium graveolens (L.) Herit] subjected to lead toxicity stress was investigated. Supplementation of EBL substantially alleviated the inhibitory effect of lead on the plant growth. Further, it was observed that EBL feeding negated the deleterious impact of lead toxicity on chlorophyll levels. The studies clearly demonstrated the lead toxicity amelioration capability of epibrassinolide in case of geranium, an aromatic plant with potential for phytoremediation.

3 tables, 15 ref

000173   Oraikhanova A A;Abayeva K T;Seribayeva A T; Sirgebayeva S T (Kazakh National Agrarian Univ, , Abay av. 8, Almaty, 050010 Kazakhstan) : Studies about vatriation of morphological characters of pine stands canopy from artificial origin and their relationship with taxation indexes. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 211-19.

Mass occurrence of natural regeneration or under growth appearance on this forest area is primarily depends on presence of semination sources in this part of forest. In condition of tape pine forest in Irtysh there is possible to create sparse trunk (sparse stable) seminiferous pine crops on pyrogenic fields of forest tapes, forest reproduction or forest regeneration by seeding way. Only multiple seed regeneration of forest provides early-maturing, multi rowing of natural plantation of the pine forest tapes. As a result regenerated self-sown forest or formed tree stands in different ages.

9 tables, 10 ref

000172   Kumar S S;Padhan B;Palita S K;Panda D (Biodiversity and Concervation of Natural Resources Dep, Central Univ of Orissa, Korput, Odisha, ) : Plants used against snakebite by tribal people of Koraput district of Odisha, India. J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(6), 38-42.

The aim of the present study is to provide a comprehensive picture of the medicinal plants with anti-snake venom activity that is used by the tribal people of Koraput district, Odisha. Information on ethno-medicinal plants were collected from eight indigenous communities viz. Paraja, Bhumia, Gadaba, Bhatra, Kondha, Gouda, Mali and Paika in eighteen villages under six community development blocks (Boipariguda, Kundra, Koraput, Jeypore, Similiguda and Nandapur) of Koraput district. During the survey a total of 38 plants species belonging to 36 genera and 29 families were identified as being used for treatment of snakebite. The plants were enumerated alphabetically according to their scientific name, habit, local name, family, parts used and mode of preparation of medicine. Maximum number of medicinal plants used for snakebite was recorded under the family Apocynaceae and 68% of plants were used orally or internally, where as 32% of plants were externally applied to the affected area. The most commonly used species for treatment of snakebite was Rauvolfia serpentina with highest use value among tribals followed by Curcuma longa, Achyranthes aspera and Mimosa pudica. The plant with very less use value reported from study area were Rauvolfia tetraphylla, Bryophyllum pinnatum, Andrographis paniculata, Asparagus racemosus, Musa paradisiaca, Nyctanthes arbortristis and Piper longum. Further work is suggested to elucidate the possible mechanism of action of these plant extracts against snake venom.

2 illus, 1 table, 39 ref

000171   Khomann E E;Nam I Y G;Zayakin V V (Federal State-Funded Educational Institution of Higher Professional Ed, , Bezhitskaya Street, 14) : Using ISSR-markers for genetic diversity of some representatives of Orchidaceae. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 115-18.

The present study is directed to determination the genetic diversity of representatives of Orchidaceae family using six inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) primers. The possibility of using them to assess the level of genetic polymorphism is shown. Monomorphic and polymorphic bands indicating the species and genus determination have been allocated which enables to use them for making genetic formulas and certification of populations. Cluster analyses on the base of UPGMA (unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean) made it possible to estimate the degree of similarity of the tested species.

2 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

000170   Gondval M;Chaturvedi P;Gaur A K (Biological Sciences Dep, College of Basic Sciences and Humanities, G B Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology (GBPUAT), Pantnagar-263 145, Email: an_priti@yahoo.co.in) : Thidiazuron-induced high frequency establishment of callus cultures and plantlet regeneration in Aconitum balfourii stapf.: an endangered medicinal herb of North-West Himalayas. Indian J Biotechnol 2016, 15(2), 251-5.

The present study reports an efficient in vitro plantlet regeneration protocol for endangered, pharmacologically important aconite, Aconitum balfourii Stapf. via callus-mediated organogenesis from both leaf and petiole segments. Optimum callusing was observed on MS+0.5 mg L^-1 TDZ (thidiazuron)+1.0 mg L^-1 NAA (naphthalene acetic acid) in both leaf (86.67%) and petiole explants (73.34%). Further, shoot induction was maximum (86.67±0.20) on MS fortified with 0.5 mg L^-1 TDZ with formation of 7.8±0.51 number of shoots. The well-developed microshoots were transferred to root induction medium and optimum rooting was observed in full-strength MS augmented with 0.25 mg L^-1 IAA (indole acetic acid) and 0.25 mg L^-1 NAA. The plantlets thus obtained, after washing, were kept in 0.5% bavistin for 10 min and were planted in pre-sterilized mixture of sand, soil and vermicompost (1:1:1) and acclimatized in controlled environment. The acclimatized plantlets were successfully transferred in field conditions displaying normal development.

1 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

000169   Dwivedi P;Dwivedi J;Patel D;Desai S;Meshram D (B. Pharm Pioneer Pharmacy Degree College, Nr. Ajwa Crossing, Sayajipur, , ) : Phytochemical analysis and assessment of in vitro urolithiatic activity of colocasia leaves. J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(6), 43-7.

Phytochemicals are responsible for medicinal activity of plant species. They have ability for curing various ailment and possesses potential anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant and anti-fungal properties. Natural products from medicinal plants, either as pure compounds or as extracted out, provide opportunities for new drug leads because of the unmatched availability of chemical diversity. Due to raising demand for chemical diversity nowadays in screening programs, seeking therapeutic drugs from herbal products, these are quite interesting throughout the world. Botanicals and herbal preparations for medicinal purpose contain various types of bioactive compounds. Colocasia esculenta commonly known as taro belonging to family Araceae are herbaceous perennial plants with a large corm on or just below the ground surface. Continuous research have revealed many chemical constituents isolated from this plant to exhibit several biological activities such as antimicrobial activity, fever, anti-inflammatory, stomach disorder, conjunctivitis, and loss of appetite for children. The present study aims at studying the anti urolithiatic activity of methanolic and chloroform extracts of the leaves of Colocasia esculenta using artificial kidney membrane. From the above study, it was found that it does show the urolithiatic study.

2 illus, 4 tables, 21 ref

000168   Chate A B;Tole S B;Patil S M (Adarsh Shikshan Prasarak, Mandl's K.T. Patil College of Pharmacy, Osmanabad, Maharashtra) : Medicinal plant of ayurveda and their prospect in modern drug research. J Pharmac Phytochem 2016, 5(6), 38-42.

The present study deals with the medicinal plant of Ayurveda and their prospect in modern drug research. The Ayurveda including medicinal plant like Thevetia Peruviana there uses, Activity and the isolation of new drug in modern drug research on pharmaceutical concept. The Thevetia Peruviana as a using to there Thevetia A and Thevetia B, others include peruvoside, nerrifolin, thevetoxin and ruvoside. The study deals with Digitoxigenin and Cannogenin identification of modern drug research from Thevetia Peruviana.

2 tables, 15 ref

000167   Attanayake A P;Jayatilaka K A P W;Malkanthi B M A S (Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Medicine, Ruhuna Univ, Karapitiya, Sri Lanka) : Total flavonoid content, total antioxidant activities and phytochemical constituents of selected medicinal plant extracts used for oxidative stress related chronic diseases in Sri Lanka. J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(6), 26-9.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the total flavonoid content, total antioxidant activities and to determine the phytochemical constituents of selected aqueous medicinal plant extracts. The total flavonoid content was determined by aluminium chloride method. The antioxidant activities were determined by three methods namely phosphomolybdenum assay, ferric thiocyanate assay and thiobarbituric acid. L-ascorbic acid was used as the reference compounds in expressing the antioxidant activities by the three assays. The total flavonoid content of plant extracts varied from 1.0 ± 0.1 -7.1±0.1 μgQE/g of dry weight. The antioxidant activities ranged from ascorbic acid equivalents of 102.6 ± 9.2- 542.3 ± 7.2 mg AAE/g of the extract for phosphomolybdenum assay, percentage of inhibition of 56.3-±2.4- 81.1±0.2% for ferric thiocyanate assay and IC₅₀ of 112.4±2.4- 390.8±5.2 μg/mL for thiobarbituric acid assay method. The study demonstrates that the selected medicinal plant extracts possess antioxidant activities with relatively high content of flavonoids.

3 tables, 30 ref

000166   Akkiraju P C;Suryawanshi D D;Jawakekar A J; Tambe H S;Mamillapalli S (Biotechnology Dep, P.V.P. College of Arts, Science & Commerce, Pravaranagar, Loni, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra) : Phytochemical analysis and HPLC study of vitamin-C from Punica granaum L. Arakta variety of India. J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(6), 9-12.

Punica granatum L. commonly known as Pomegranate is a plant with medicinal properties known from ancient times. The Indian variety Aarakta was investigated for its phytochemicals along with HPLC study of Vitamin-C. Methanol extracts of exocarp, mesocarp and seeds were evaluated for alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, anthraquinones, glycosides, phycobilins, vitamin-C, amino acids, proteins, carbohydrates and saponins. All three parts of the fruit contained saponins, carbohydrates, alkaloids, phycobilins and vitamin-C. The same were found absent with glycosides, proteins, amino acids and anthraquinones. The flavonoids were not found in the seeds and gallotannins were present only in the seeds. HPLC analysis of Vitamin-C had TP contents ranged from 53.7 to 5917.3 μg/mg, 4.0 to 3957.3μg/mg and 497.4 to 2797.7μg/mg for exocarp, mesocarp and seed extracts, respectively. The contents of TF ranged from 0.65 to 1.6 μg/mg, 0.5 to 1.9 μg/mg and 0.60 to 1.61 μg/mg for exocarp, mesocarp and seed extracts, respectively.

3 illis, 1 table, 13 ref

000165   Abubakar U S;Osodi F A;Aliyu I;Jamila G A; Saidu S R;Fatima S S;Sani S I;Ahmad S A;Tsoken B G (Bioresources Development Centre, Kano, National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), Abuja, Nigeria) : Use of traditional medicine among Bayero university community, Kano. J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(6), 23-5.

The use of traditional medicine among the educated people has not been widely studied in Nigeria because of the assumption that only uneducated and rural people use traditional medicine. The present study assessed the extent of use, efficacy, safety, affordability and potential toxicities of traditional medicine among the students, academic and non-academic staff of Bayero University, Kano. Respondents were interviewed with a well structured questionnaire. The results showed that more than two-third of the respondents had ever used traditional medicine for various health concerns. Majority of the respondents were of the opinion that traditional medicine is effective, safe, affordable and have moderate side effects. Also, most of the respondents supported the integration of orthodox and traditional systems of medicine in Nigeria. It can be concluded that the use of traditional medicine products is popular among the respondents, but there is need to evaluate the efficacy, safety and quality of most of those products.

1 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

023449   Tomar R (Botany Dep, S.G. (P.G.) College, , Sarurpur Khurd, Meerut, Email: dreenakumar24@gmail.com) : Antifungal activity in barley (Hordeum vulgare) seedlimngs. Biochem Cell Archs 2016, 16(1), 99-101.

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) a cereal grain is the fourth most important cereal crop in the world after rice, wheat and maize. Following corn, barley is the second largest coarse cereal traded globally. Barley is used as livestock feed, human food and barley malt. Barley is highest in fiber of all the whole grain. Whole grain barley is high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals essential to health. Barley is cultivated as a rabi crop in India, with sowing being undertaken from October to December and harvesting from March to May. Rajasthan (40%), Uttar Pradesh (34%), Madhya Pradesh (8%), Haryana (6%) and Punjab (5%) are major producers of barley. Barley has a short growing season and is also relatively drought tolerant. In crop plants fungal infection causes major yield loses. The antifungal proteins that inhibit the growth of fungi in vitro are abundantly present in plant kingdom. Barley seedlings are investigated for the presence of antifungalctivity. Protein preparation from barley seedlings showed fungal growth inhibition of Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Trichoderma viride and Trichoderma lignorum.

11 ref

023448   Suryawanshi P;Vidhyasagar G M (Medicinal Plants and Microbiology Lab, Botany Dep, Gulbarga Univ, Kalaburagi, Karnataka) : Phytochemical screening for secondary metabolites of Opuntia dillenii Haw. J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(5), 39-43.

Opuntia dillenii a wild xerophyte is abundant in Himalayas, believed to be of American origin and a native of India. Traditionally, the plant is used in the treatment of inflammation, hypoglycaemic, stomach ulceration, Neuro-protection through antioxidant action, viral disease, diabetes, burns, bronchial, asthma and digestive problems throughout the world. Phytochemistry study was undertaken in cladodes and fruits and revealed the presence of Phenols, Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Saponins in cladode and Phenols, Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Terpeonids Steroids, Saponins in fruit. Phenols content (6.8%) was found maximum followed by Alkaloids (5.4%), Flavonoids (3.5%) and Saponins (1.05%) in cladode. Similarly, in the fruit, Phenols were maximum (5.4%) followed by Alkaloids (4.38%), Flavonoids (2.22%), Saponins (0.75%), and Terpenoids (0.8%). Steroids were detected in fruit.

5 illus, 1 table, 36 ref

023447   Sunita Devi T;Das A K (Ecology & Environmental Science Dep, Assam Univ, SILCHAR-788 011, Email: th.sunita1962@gmail.com) : Some rare and threatened vascular plants of Senapati district, Manipur, North East India. Flora Fauna 2016, 22(1), 29-32.

Six species of rare and threatened vascular plants are reported from Senapati district, Manipur. The species are Aeginetiaindica L., Arundinagraminifolia (D.Don). Hochr., Boesenbergialongiflora (Wall.) Kuntze., Cycaspectinata BuchHam., Magnolia griffithi Hook and Renantheraim schootiana Rolfe.

1 illus, 14 ref

023446   Silambarasan A;Sivaraj S;Muthuvelu S; Bharathidasan V;Murugesan P (Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Annamalai University, Parangipettai-608 502, Email: pmurugesaan74@gmail.com) : Influence of environmental parameters on abundance and diversity of phytoplankton in Pichavaram mangroves, Southeast coast of India. Indian J Geomar Sci 2016, 45(4), 591-602.

During the study period, 62 species belonging to three taxa namely diatoms, dinoflagellates, and blue green algae were recorded. Of these three, diatoms were found to be the dominant group with 47 species; dinoflagellates formed next dominant group with 9 species and blue greens came last in the order with 6 species in all the stations. Population density of phytoplankton ranged between 2,350 and 32, 405 Cells/l were identified in Pichavaram mangrove region. Phytoplankton community was analyzed by Univariate and Multivariate statistical techniques. Results of CCA analysis suggested that the environmental parameters such as temperature, salinity, and a few nutrients are the key variables in determining the abundance and diversity of phytoplankton community.

7 illus, 4 tables, 59 ref

023445   Shams J;Badi H N;Zeynali H;Khalighi-Sigaroodi F;Najafi P (Horticulture Dep, Science and Research Branch Islamic Azad Univ, Tehran, Iran, Email: Naghdibadi@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of growth indices and pigments amount in Aloe vera as influenced by water deficiency and salinity treatments. Crop Res 2015, 49(1-3), 99-108.

Aloe vera is a member of the lily family (Liliaceae), CAM plant with commercial value for its medical, nutritional and cosmetic uses. It requires limited irrigation depending on the humidity retention capacity of the soil. Damages of water shortage to plants in the world are wider compared to other tensions. Also salinity stress is a limiting factor of plant growth and yield, and becoming a serious problem in the world. In this trial, various levels of irrigation treatments used were field capacity, 40, 60 and 80% water depletion and salinity treatments included the control, 4, 8 and 12 dS/m, during two years' studies. Results revealed that the drought and saline stress affected growth and chemical compounds in this plant. Increase of the drought and salinity declined the number of leaves, external leaf thickness, leaf volume, aerial fresh yield, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and carotenoid amount. Enhancement of the drought and salinity increased the electric conductivity of gel and anthocyanin level in the leaves. There were no differences in the growth indices between 4 and 8 dS/m treatments. The negative effects on the plant were indicated at the 80% water depletion. Then the concentration of the 8 dS/m salinity and 60% water depletion suggestion caused plant resistance.

6 illus, 6 tables, 26 ref

023444   Shams A;Zeynali H;Etemadi N A (Young Reseachers Club, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch Islamic Azad Univ, Isfahan, Iran, Email: Shamsazita96@yahoo.com) : Effects of drought and zinc application on leaves and physiological characteristics of Aloe vera. Crop Res 2015, 49(1-3), 91-8.

Aloe vera is one of the best medicine plants in the world. It requires limited irrigation depending on the capacity of the soil to retain humidity. Drought is one of the key reasons for declining production of agriculture. In this study, effect of irrigation levels and zinc sulfate on Aloe plants was studied. The irrigation treatments were : 30, 60 and 90% water depletion. Foliar zinc application includedtreatments of control, 1.5 and 3 g/1 during experiment. Results revealed that the irrigation levels and zinc sulfate affected the most morphological and chemical characteristics in A. vera. There were no significant differences between 30 and 60% treatments. Water deficit (90% WD) decreased the plant height, external leaf length, internal leaf length, leaf thickness, leaf fresh weight, leaf dry weight, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll. Also amino acid proline and chloride ion increased by severe drought. Application of Zn enhanced the external leaf length, internal leaf length, amount of chlorophyll a, total chlorophyll and amino acid proline. Therefore, 60% water depletion was recommended for using water and obtaining the plant suitable growth. Also foliar zinc treatment had the role of plant resistance by increasing proline to drought stress.

1 illus, 5 tables, 40 ref

023443   Sengar J;Yadav V K;Khare P K (Botany Dep, D.V.College, Orai-285 001, Email: vkyadavdvc@gmail.com) : Storage of Aegle marmelos (L) correa. seeds. Flora Fauna 2016, 22(1), 3-10.

The present paper deals with the storage of freshly collected seeds of Aegle marmelos (L) correa. The effect of two storage conditions viz; open and closed under five temperature regimes -10°,0°, 10°, 15°C and ambient temperature were observed. The initial germination and moisture content of seeds were 62.50% and 15.1% respectively. Among all the storage conditions, seeds stored at room temperature showed rapid decline of moisture content. Maximum seed moisture retention was found with storage in open and closed conditions at 10°C, after 32 months of storage, showed maximum germination of 32.25% and 39.50% respectively. The result envisaged that the seeds of the species can be stored at low temperature with seed moisture content below 10% for longer period. Further the results of the present study clearly indicate that the seeds of Aegle marmelos exhibit the intermediate storage physiology.

3 illus, 1 table

023442   Rajamurugan J;Srineevasan L;Govindasamy; Sathishkumar S;Priyanka P;Mohandass D (Botany Dep, Tagore Arts College, Lawspet, Puducheery) : Documentation of traditional knowledge on medicinal plants of Thirukkanur village, Puducherry region, India. J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(5), 44-9.

The survey of medicinal plants was recorded through knowledge of elder people to study on medical uses of local common medicinal plants in the Thirukkanur village of Puducherry region. Direct oral record of elders' knowledge might be helpful for conservation of traditional knowledge of medicinal plants that have been recorded through questionnaire and personal interviews. In this study, a total of 40 plant species, 31 genera belonging to 28 families have been documented and this might be scientifically authorized for their therapeutic properties. Local people of the area depend on knowledge of "Nattu Vathiyar" (locally healer's common name) for simple ailments and also people depend on local primary healthcare centre for major health problems. Therefore, it would be important to document the traditional knowledge of medicinal plants for further healing purpose.

2 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

023441   Rajalakshmi P;Pugalenthi M;Vadivel V (Botany Dep, Govt. Arts College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Traditional knowledge on medicinal plants used by the Irula tribe of Kadambur hills, Erode district, Tamil Nadu, India. J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(5), 14-17.

Documentation of the indigenous knowledge through ethnobotanical studies is important for the conservation of knowledge of traditional medicines preserved in tribal and rural communities of various parts of the world before it is permanently lost. In order to document the traditional knowledge and utilization of the medicinal plants present in Kadambur hills, by the Irula tribes, an exhaustive survey was carried out for 5 months from November 2015 to March 2016.

3 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

023440   Paul B;Sen C K;Saha M R (Pharmacy Dep, Noakhali Science and Technology Univ, Noakhali, Bangladesh, Email: pharmasen@gmail.com) : Cytotoxic effect of Alpinia nigra crude extract obtained from its rhizomes. Int J Pharmac 2015, 2(1), 49-54.

The present study was aimed to investigate the cytotoxic activity of different fractions (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate & chloroform) of the rhizome of Alpinia nigra - a plant belonging to the family Zingiberaceae. The rhizome of Alpinia nigra was extracted with organic solvent and the extracts were fractionated by using three fractions (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate & chloroform). The petroleum ether, ethyl acetate & chloroform soluble fractions of Alpinia nigra were screened for cytotoxic activity using brine shrimp lethality bioassay. A reputed cytotoxic agent vincristine sulphate was used as a positive control. From the results of the brine shrimp lethality bioassay it can be well predicted that petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and chloroform soluble fractions of Alpinia nigra rhizome possess cytotoxic principles (with LC₅₀ 1.245 μg/ml and LC₅₀ 2.151 μg/ml and LC₅₀ 2.737 μg/ml respectively) comparison with positive control vincristine sulphate (with LC₅₀ 0.563 μg/ml). All the extracts of Alpinia nigra showed moderate cytotoxic activities in this experiment. The results in this study are highly promising.

3 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

023439   Panneerselvam M (NO, Senthil College of Education, Periyavadavadi, Vriddhachalam, Cuddalore District-606 001, Email: mvragav444@yahoo.com) : Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal diversity and root colonization of some medicinal plants rhizosphere soil of Vriddhachalam, Tamil Nadu. Int J Pharmac 2015, 2(1), 44-8.

The present study was to analyse the occurrence of mycorrhizal diversity in 20 medicinal plants of Vriddhachalam, Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu and to explore for structures correlated to possible functional position of the symbiosis. Arbuscularmycorrhizal fungal colonization ranged from 24-81%. The highest infection was found in Justicia gendarussa and lowest in Naregamiaalata. AM fungal spore population with a range of 140 to 620 in100 g of rhizosphere soils was detected. The maximum spore population was observed in the species, Maranta arundinaceae (620/100g of soil) and the minimum in Achyranthes aspera (140/100g of soil). The AMfungal species were isolated which belongs to four genera (Aculospora, Gigaspora, Glomus and Scutellospora) and among them Glomus was dominant genera. The soil pH was also determined.

2 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

023438   Pandey R K (Botany Dep, Bundelkhand Univ, Jhansi-28428, Uttar Pradesh) : Integrated management of leaf blight disease caused by Phytophthora colocasiae Racib. on colocasia through potential fungicides and biocontrol agent under field conditions. J nat Resour Dev 2015, 10(2), 1-4.

Studies were conducted during kharif 2013 and 2015 to evaluate the effect of corms dip in fungicide, foliar sprays and integration of components for the management of taro blight (Phytophthora colocasiae Racib.). Among the different treatments, Mencozeb 75%WP, Carbendazim 12% + Thiram 63%, Thiram 50WP, Carbendazim 12% + Mencozeb 63% WP (Sixer), Metalaxyl 35%, Metalaxil 8% + Mencozeb 64% (Ridomil), Trichoderma vride an obnoxious proved to be good with significant increase in corm yield and decreased the different disease related aspects. The corm dip in Ridomil MZ @ 0.25% for 1 hour before sowing and two sprays at 10 days intervals of Ridomil MZ individually gave 68.28 and 75.60% control of disease over the unprotected fields, respectively. However, their integrated effects resulted in 90.83% control of the disease thereby given 33.03 and 20.15 additional control of disease over corm dip in Ridomil MZ and two spray of Ridomil MZ alone, respectively.

3 tables, 9 ref

023437   Neel Ratan;Singh U N (Botany Dep, D.V. Postgraduate College, Orai-285 001, Email: drunsingh@rediffmail.com) : Effects of fly ash on protein, carbohydrate and starch in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in Bundelkhand region (U.P.), India. Flora Fauna 2016, 22(1), 17-20.

For effective and safe management of fly ash, it was used as soil amendment along with recommended does of N,P,K and vermicompost (VC) for the cultivation of wheat. Its impact on yield parameters was recorded during the rabi, season (2013-2014). The experimental design was RBD with nine treatments, each replicated three times. Treatment T8 (20t/ha FA+5t/ha VC) was better than other treatments for protein, carbohydrate and starch. The grain yield was higher by 32% over control and other treatments. The overall results indicate the suitablitiy of fly ash for cultivation of wheat when used along with recommended does of NPK and vermicompost.

1 illus, 1 table, 4 ref

023436   Malik K;Sathish Kumar;Singh Arya K P (Botany Dep, Meerut College, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of zinc, molybdenum and urea on chlorophyll and protein content of mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek). Int J Pl Sci 2015, 10(2), 152-7.

The effect of zinc, molybdenum and urea has been studied on chlorophyll, nitrogen and protein content of mungbean crop. Two varieties of mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] i.e., Pant Mung-4 and Narendra-1 were studied in the Department of Botany, Meerut College, Meerut (U.P.) in the years 2011-2012. Simple Randomized Block Design was followed with 4 replications and 11 treatments along with control. The treatments were Zn (5, 10, 15 and 20 ppm), Mo (1, 2, 3 and 5 ppm) and urea (1% and 2%). The results were found significant of both varieties of mungbean.

2 tables, 30 ref

023435   Li J;He S Y;Qin X D (Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences Guangzhou Experiment, Guangzhou-510 140, China, Email: lijingjp@126.com) : Allelopathic potential and volatile compounds of Manihot esculenta crantz against weeds. Allelopathy J 2016, 37(2), 195-206.

Authors determined the allelopathic effects of aqueous leachates from fresh roots, stems, leaves and dried leaf litter of Manihot esculenta on three weed species (Medicago sativa L., Lolium perenne L. and Sorghum sudanense (Piper) Stapf). The aqueous leachates of roots, stems and leaf at 50 and 100 mg/ml concentrations and leaf litter leachate at 3 and 5 mg/ml inhibited the seed germination and seedling growth of all tested weed species. Soil in which cassava cv. 'South China 5 (SC5)' was grown, also significantly inhibited the root and shoot length of Medicago sativa and Lolium perenne and the root length of Sorghum sudanense. The chemical constituents of volatile compounds from fresh Manihot esculenta roots, stems and leaves were analyzed by GCMS. The major constituents of volatile compounds in cassava were: (i). Roots : hexadecane, 2,6,11,15-tetramethyl-, dodecane, 2,7,10-trimethyl-and undecane, (ii). Stems: 9,17-octadecadienal, (Z)- and cis,cis,cis-7,10,13-hexadecatrienal and (iii). Leaves : Nonanal, Caryophyllene oxide, Tetradecanal. Both laboratory and pot experiments showed that Manihot esculenta was allelopathic to the tested weed species.

5 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

023434   Krishnaveni M;Suresh Kumar J;Sharavanan P S (Botany Dep, Government Arts College, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu) : Influence of lead on biochemicals and proline contents of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. Int J Pl Sci 2015, 10(2), 142-51.

Among heavy metals, lead is an element that is easily accumulated in soil and sediments. The level of lead found in plants is often correlated with the level present in the environment. Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.], a member of Fabaceae, it is an annual multi-purpose grain legume plants suitable in a variety of cropping systems. The present study on ecophysiological effect of lead is undertaken to analyse the influence of ead on biochemicals and proline contents of cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.]. In this study, Co -1 was considered to be more tolerant than other varieties tested. The lead treatment up to 10mg kg -1 soil concentration was, however, beneficial for the overall growth parameters. From those treatments under lead values were increased at 10mg kg^-1 lead treatment. The uptake and accumulation of lead in cowpea plants increased with increased of lead level in the soil under field / pot culture experiments. From 25 -200mg kg^-1 biochemical contents were decreased (except proline).

5 tables, 69 ref

023433   Kasarkar A R;Barge A N (Botany Dep, Vivekanand College, Kolhapur-416 004) : Effect of aqueous extract of neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) leaves on germination and growth of some agricultural crops. J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(5), 11-13.

Effect of aqueous extract of Azadirachta indica A. Juss leaves observed on agricultural crops like Mung, Cow pea, Jowar and Wheat. It is found that these crops are sensitive to different concentrations of Neem leaf extract on germination stage, root, and shoot length and biomass production.

4 tables, 15 ref

023432   Gholve V M;Taware M R;Wagh S S (Plant Pathology Dep, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, Maharashtra) : Effect of different culture media, temperature and pH on growth and sporulation of Alternaria carthami. Int J Pl Sci 2015, 10(2), 163-7.

All eight culture media tested encouraged better growth of Alternaria carthami. However, Potato dextrose agar gave significantly highest growth (90.00 mm). The second and third best culture media found were Potato malt agar (84.16mm) and Yeast manitol agar (73.33 mm). Rest of the culture media recorded good amount of mycelial growth in the range of 41.66 mm (Yeast extract agar) to 69.16 mm (Malt extract agar). Colony growth was circular, cottony, grayishblack or olivaceous-black coloured with fair to excellent sporulation. The mean colony growth recorded with all the different temperature ranged from 5.66 mm at 5°C to 85.66 mm at 30°C. However, significantly highest mean mycelial growth (85.66 mm) was recorded at 30°C with excellent (++++) sporulation. The second and third best temperature found were 25°C (83.83 mm) and 20°C (66.33 mm). The mean colony growth recorded with all the pH values ranged from 30.50 mm at pH 4.0 to 85.83 mm at pH 6.5. However, significantly maximum mean mycelial growth (85.83 mm) was recorded at pH 6.5 with excellent (++++) sporulation. The second and third best pH values found were pH 6 (82.00 mm) and pH 7 (70.33 mm) with excellent and good sporulation, respectively.

3 tables, 15 ref

023431   Gadi B R;Goswami B (Botany Dep, Center of Advanced Study, J.N. Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 005, Email: brgadi@rediffmail.com) : Effect of salt stress on early seedling growth and chlorophyll stability index of Lasiurus sindicus henerd : endemic to Indian thar desert. Biochem Cell Archs 2016, 16(1), 103-6.

The aim of this research was to study the effect of salt (NaCl) on early seedling growth, pigment composition, chlorophyll stability index(CSI) and sugars content of Lasiurus scindicus Henrard. In-vitro grown seedlings of Lasiurus were treated three levels of NaCl (25,50 and 100mM). After 7th days of treatment, increasing concentrations of NaCl reduced the percentage seed germination, root and shoot length, vigor index, chlorophyll stability index (CSI),pigments(chlorophyll a,b and carotenoids) content while increased the soluble sugars content. It can be assumed that sugars accumulated in Lasiurus seedlings may be implicated in salt stress tolerance mechanism.

2 tables, 30 ref

023430   Firdousi S A;Khan T A (Botany Dep, H.J. Thim College of Arts and Science, Mehrun, Jalgaon, Maharashtra, Email: Shakeeltalk@gmail.com) : New combination of Cercospora allied complex from sagar (M.P.) India. Flora Fauna 2016, 22(1), 33-5.

A fungal specimen was collected on Chloroxylon swietenia D.C. (Rutaceae). Gopalpura (South Forest Division) Sagar, M.P. After microscopic studies, it was identified as Pseudocercospora, as it has fully generic characters of Pseudocercospora. The same taxa was described earlier as Cercospora chloroxyliae. The fungi is having all characters of Pseudocercospora, as it has obconocotruncate base, unthickened scars and colored conidia. It has no generic characters of Cercospora. To avoid mycological jumbling it has been transferred into Pseudocercospora chloroxyliae com.nov.

1 illus, 10 ref

023429   Deng W H;Chen B Y;Zhang Y Q;Yan S L;Gao H B; Zhang J Q;Mclamore E S;Venagas D C;Shen Y B;Wu B (College of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Beijing Forestry Univ, No. 35 Qinghua East Road, Haidian District, 100 083, Beijing, China, Email: ybshen@bjfu.edu.cn) : Influence of Artemisia ordosica extract on growth of associated plants by regulating the absorbtion of NH₄<. Allelopathy J 2016, 37(2), 175-94.

To better understand the mechanisms of allelopathy of Artemisia ordosica Spreng., we tested the hypothesis that allelochemicals from A. ordosica changes to K⁺ and NH₄⁺ absorption in roots, thereby regulating the seed germination and seedling growth of associated plants [Agriophyllum squarrosum (L.) Moq., Corispermum hyssopifolium L., Astragalus melitodes Pall. and Setaria viridis (L.) Beauv.]. We found that allelochemicals (benzoic acid, butanedioic acid and hexadecanoic acid) from A. ordosica, were released into the surrounding soil and inhibited the seed gemination, root growth, shoot height and also decreased the dry mass of these associated plants. Conversely, A. ordosica extracts promoted the seed gemination and seedling growth of Setaria viridis grass. For the first time, we showed that the mechanism was related to ion adsorption by using non-invasive ion selective microsensors. These microsensor studies showed that the extracts of A. ordosica significantly decreased the root absorbtion of K⁺ and NH₄⁺ for A. squarrosum, C. hyssopifolium and A. melitodes, but enhanced the root uptake of K⁺ and NH₄⁺ in S. viridis. These results are imperative to understand the underlying mechanism of allelopathy between plants, which significantly impacts the dryland vegetation, wind shelters, water runoff and other ecosystem dynamics.

8 illus, 1 table, 63 ref

023428   Chan E W C;Wong S K (Faculty of Applied Science, UCSI Univ, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Email: chanwc@ucsiuniversity.edu.my) : HERBS and herbal teas with antioxidant properties comparable to or superior than those of Camellia sinensis. Int J Pharmac 2015, 2(1), 33-7.

The antioxidant properties of 20 herbs and 28 herbal teas were analysed in comparison with those of Camellia sinensis based on total phenolic content (TPC), free radical scavenging (FRS) activity, ferric reducing power (FRP) and ferrous ion chelating (FIC) ability. The main objective was to find out if there are herbs and herbal teas with antioxidant properties comparable to or superior than those of C. sinensis. Results showed that TPC, FRS and FRP of C. sinensis leaves outperformed all herbs. FIC values were however weaker than those of banaba and cashew leaves. TPC, FRS and FRP of C. sinensis teas outperformed all herbal teas except those of banaba, lemon myrtle and stevia. Eleven herbal teas displayed stronger FIC values than C. sinensis teas with those of banaba, spearmint and peppermint being the most potent. Overall, C. sinensisleaves and teas remain the king of antioxidants based on phenolic content and primary antioxidant properties of FRS and FRP, but not on secondary antioxidant properties of FIC.

1 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

023427   Bouri T;Ganguly S (Botany Dep, Jhargram Raj College, Jhargram, West Medinipur, West Bengal) : Documentation of traditional knowledge on edible wild plants of forests in Burdwan district, West Bengal (India). J med Pl Stud 2016, 4(5), 35-8.

Due to population overgrowth and increase in demand for various products of natural resources, destruction has escalated to a great extent. Since early times, man had been using plants from natural habitats to meet his subsistence needs. Although the use of medicinal plants is well known the knowledge concerning edible wild plants is much limited. A scientific study of edible wild plants is important for pin pointing the potential sources which could be even utilized at the time of scarcity and cultivated as well as a source of food for the growing population. In view of this, the present work was undertaken which documents as many as 76 plant species belonging to 70 genera and 50 families.

3 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref

023426   Biradar S R;Birajdar D S;Rachetti B D (Tissue Culture Research Center, Shivaji College Omerga, Dist. Osmanabad-413 606, Email: sanjaybiradar2006@rediffmail.com) : Phytoconstitutents of medicinally important plant Andrographis paniculata nees. Int J Pharmac 2015, 2(1), 55-8.

Andrographis paniculata Nees is a plant that has been effectively used in traditional Asian medicines for centuries. It's perceived "blood purifying" property and also for medicinal properties. The present paper deals to study the phytochemical screening of Andrographis paniculata for various medicinally important compounds. In the present investigation it was found that phenols, alkaloids, tannins, flavanoids are present in leaves, stem and root of the plant. Saponin is absent.

1 table, 19 ref