016366   Kumar N S;Nair A S;Nair A M;Murali M (Research Center of Botany Dep, Mahatma Gandhi College, Thiruvananthapuram-695 015) : Pharmacological and therapeutic effects of triphala- A literature review. J Pharmac Phytochem 2016, 5(3), 23-7.

Triphala (tri = three and phala = fruits), is an ayurvedic preparation composed of three equal proportions of herbal fruits native to the Indian subcontinent: viz. Terminalia chebula, Phyllanthus emblica, and Terminalia belerica. Triphala is a tridoshic rasayana having a balancing and rejuvenating effect on the three constitutional elements that govern the human life. Triphala is rich in antioxidants, possess antibacterial, anti-viral and anti-cancer properties. Triphala is also known to cure cataract and effective in the treatment of Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Triphala is rich in polyphenols, Vitamin C and flavonoids. This review paper focuses on the therapeutic effect of triphala. Triphala is a polyherbal formulation and the mechanism of action of polyherbals/herbal drugs and their extracts differ in many respects from that of the synthetic drugs or single substances. In ayurvedic terms, triphala, used in moderation, is said to have a beneficial effect on all three doshas-vata, pitta, and kapha. Triphala contains several compounds that have been proposed to be responsible for its claimed health benefits, including gallic acid, chebulagic acid, chebulinic acid etc. Triphala has a combination of both nutritional as well as blood and liver cleansing activities. It has little function as a demulcent or lubricating laxative. It possesses anthroquinones that help to stimulate bile flow and peristalsis. The nutritional aspect of triphala in the form of its high vitamin C content, presence of linoleic oil and other important nutrients make it more of a tonic. Triphala possess free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, antibacterial, antimutagenic, wound healing, anti-cariogenic, antistress, adaptogenic, anti-diabetic, hypoglycaemic activity and so on. All these characters make "Triphala" one of the most valuable herbal preparations in the world.

33 ref

016365   Kumar Mala S;Priya A P;Bincy B;Nazeem P A (Bioinformatics Centre (DIC), IT-BT Complex, Kerala Agricultural Univ, Vellanikkara-680 656, Email: nazeem.pa@kau.in) : Bioactive compounds to target anti apoptotic proteins- Bcl 2 and Bcl XL an In silico approach. Int J pharm Sci Res 2015, 6(7), 3034-43.

Phytochemicals from several herbaceous and spice plants have been reported to have defense properties against various diseases. Potential of some of such plants like Allium sativum, Curcuma longa, Boerhaavia diffusa, Pterocarpus marsupium and Zingiber officinale in cancer therapy has already been proved. The state of Kerala in southern India hosts large number of medicinal herbs and is also referred as a hotspot of biodiversity. The current study aimed at computational screening of potent lead molecules from ten selected medicinal plants and five spices widely used in Kerala, which are rich in biological diversity and its traditional values. Even though, the anticancer properties of all these plants and spices were reported, their mode of action and target molecules is not well explained. Hence, the interaction of these compounds with anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL are studied and discussed in this paper. The -CDOCKER energy, -CDOCKER interaction energy, Hydrogen bonds, binding energy, and complex energy were predicted through molecular docking studies. Based on binding energy and CDOCKER scores, the active components of Pterocarpus marsupium, Aegle marmelos, Pseudarthira viscida, Allium sativum, Phyllanthus amarus, Boerhaavia diffusa and Catharanthus roseus were observed to have strong interaction with both the proteins. Pharmacokinetic analysis such as absorption, solubility, BBB penetration, and toxicity were also performed for these compounds. Comparative docking analysis showed higher interaction than the known inhibitors such as Obatoclax and apogossypolone. Finally, the lead molecules were screened based on their hepatotoxicity. Ten of them passed the analysis and some with high binding energy failed to do so. The lead molecules identified and their probable functional groups could be further reported to transform them as potential anti-apoptotic inhibitors.

17 ref

016364   Kaushal P;Saxena S;Dwivedi K K;Radhakrishna A;Roy A K;Malaviya D R (Crop Improvement Div, Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi-284 003, Email: pkaushal70@gmail.com) : Generating higher ploidies (7x and 11x) in guinea grass (Panicum maximum Jacq.) utilizing reproductive diversity and uncoupled apomixis components. Curr Sci 2015, 109(8), 1392-4.

7 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

016363   Kamla Jayanthi P D;Aurade R M;Kempraj V; Verghese A (Entomology and Nematology Dep, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hesseraghatta Lakke PO, Bengaluru-560 089, Email: jaiinsect@gmail.com) : Aromatic fruits as baits for the management of fruit-piercing moths in pomegranate: exploiting olfaction. Curr Sci 2015, 109(8), 1476-9.

'Baits' are substances that attract, trap and kill pests. In horticultural practice, baits are used to trap insect pests, thereby diverting them from cultivated crops. An important insect pest that can be managed using baits is the fruit-piercing moth (FPM), Eudocima species. These frugivorous moths are distributed throughout India and inflict serious damage to a wide range of cultivated fruits. In southern India, pomegranate cultivation is escalating and so is the fruit damage caused by FPM. The damage by FPM alone sums up to 40% of the production, thus causing heavy loss to farmers. However, existing control measures are ineffective in reducing damage caused by the moths. In the present communication, we study the feeding preference of FPM to banana, guava, tomato and molasses in multiple and limited-choice field experiments. The results indicate that the moths are attracted to bait fruits, viz. banana, guava compared to the main crop, pomegranate. We conclude that using these aromatic fruits as baits, we can divert the moths from the main crop, which will serve as an economically viable control measure.

5 illus, 17 ref

016362   Hareeshbabu E;Mathew S M;Ganesan V;Mathew V B;Ranjith P B;Jacob P J (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, Vinayaka Missions Univ, Salem, Tamilnadu, Email: hareeshbabue@yahoo.com) : In vitro antioxidant screening of bio-active fraction of seeds of Strychnos potatorum linn. Int J pharm Sci Res 2015, 6(7), 2991-7.

Strychnos potatorum Linn. is a medium sized deciduous tree belonging to the family Loganiaceae. The collected seeds of Strychnos potatorum were dried and powdered. Methanolic extract of these seeds was prepared by cold maceration. The preliminary phytochemical screening of the crude extract revealed the presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. The crude extract was partitioned (gradient) with different solvents like chloroform, ethyl acetate, acetone and water. After conducting preliminary in vitro DPPH free radical scavenging assay on these fractions, the one with maximum antioxidant activity (bioactive fraction) was selected and screened with different in vitro antioxidant methods. The different in vitro antioxidant methods include DPPH free radical scavenging assay, nitric oxide radical scavenging assay, superoxide radical scavenging assay, hydroxyl radical scavenging assay and inhibition of peroxide formation method. The percentage inhibition of free radicals in each method was compared with standard drug. Ascorbic acid and a- tocopherol were used as standard drugs. The seeds of Strychnos potatorum have shown significant antioxidant activity.

13 ref

016361   Hailu A F;Alameraw S;Belew D (Horticulture Dep, Addis Ababa Univ Selale Campus, P.O. Box 245, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Email: ayehufekadu5@gmail.com) : Cluster and divergence analysis in amaranthus germplasm accessions (Amaranthus spp.) under mizan and tepi conditions, South West Ethiopia. Int J pure appl Sci Technol 2015, 28(1), 34-49.

Cluster and divergence analysis helps in the identification of parental materials for combinations to know the extent of the accession that near to each other in relation to genetic variability. Amaranthus is one of the most nutritious leafy vegetables in the world and dominantly consumed in the pastoralist area in Ethiopia. However this crop has received less research attention and little or nothing has been done on extent of homogeneity within the group and the difference between of this crop. Hence, 36 accessions of Amaranthus spp. were evaluated in 6x6 simple lattices design at Tepi and Mizan experimental sites. The overall objective was to estimate the extent of genetic similarity of the germplasm and thereby estimate the genetic differences between clusters. Variances component method was used to estimate genetic variation and relationship among traits was also estimated by using standard method. Analysis of variance revealed that there was a significant difference (p<60> 0.01) among thirty six germplasm accessions for all the characters studied except for thousand seed weight which was non significant (p<62>0.05).The analysis based on D^{2 statistics classified the 36 genotypes in to six clusters, which makes them moderately divergent and maximum distance between clusters III and I (2467) were found this indicated to select individual germplasm accessions from theses clusters for future hybridization. The relationship between divergence and geographic distribution of the genotypes was also found from Konso, Arbaminch zuria, Derashe and hence more emphases should be given for this region for collecting of the germplasm. The overall study confirmed the presence of trait variability in amaranths germplasm accessions and this could be exploited in the genetic improvement of the crop through hybridization and selection.}

1 illus, 7 tables, 23 ref

016360   Gurmeet S;Amrita P (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, New Delhi) : Unique pandanus- Flavour, food and medicine. J Pharmac Phytochem 2016, 5(3), 8-14.

Pandanus /screw pine has around 600 species of pine family Pandanaceae. All parts of the plant are useful. The leaves of Pandanus are used for thatching and making mats, hats, twine, sails, baskets, and fibre products, especially from pandanus palm (Pandanus tectorius) and the common screw pine (P. utilis). Leaves of P. amaryllifolius are used in Southeast Asian cooking. The fleshy fruits and seeds of P. utilis and P. leram are edible. Due to the exotic fragrance, Pandanus odoratissimus flowers are used for preparing perfumes. Long aerial roots of Pandanus species contains strong fibers, which are used for making ropes and baskets. Pandanus contains phytochemicals like steroids, carbohydrates, phenols, isoflavones, coumestrol, lignans, alkaloids, glycosides, amino acids and vitamins. Significant Pharmacological activities reported by scientists are anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, anti-viral, anti-neoplastic, anti-oxidant, anti-diuretic, analgesic and neuroprotective. We systematically reviewed and compiled information about pharmacognostic, phytochemical, pharmacological and nutritional aspects of Pandanus plant.

7 tables, 40 ref

016359   Grana E;Tielas C D;Lopez-Gonzalez D;Reiosa M J;Sanchez-Moreiras A M (Plant Biology and Soil Sciences Dep, Univ of Vigo, Campus Lagoas-Marcosende s/n, 36310 Vigo, Spain) : Histolocalization of aldehyde accumulation in citral-treated Arabidopsis thaliana roots. Allelopathy J 2016, 37(1), 71-6.

Growth and development of Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings treated with the essential oil component citral have been severely affected. We analyzed whether citral can enter and accumulate into the roots and we found that it interferes with the plant metabolism accumulating mainly in the differentiation zone. Besides, the distribution of stained zones varied with the experimental time.

1 illus, 9 ref

016358   Erhenhi A H;Lemy E E;Ashibuogwu C C (Botany Dep, Faculty of Science, Delta State Univ, Abraka, Nigeria) : Spices used in Ubulu-uku community of delta state. Int J herb Med 2016, 4(3), 45-8.

Study on plant spices used by the people of Ubulu-Uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State was carried out to review the abundance of spices and their application in food preparation. Ethnobotanical information were obtained from ten elderly women who were highly knowledgeable in the use of spices in food preparation. Relevant botanical journals and lectures from the Department of Botany, Delta State University, Abraka were also consulted in the identification of spices collected. A total of twenty two (22) plant materials comprising of fourteen (14) families used as spices were recorded to include Amaryllidaceae (1), Annonaceae (2), Apocynaceae (1), Asteraceae (1), Chrysobalanaceae (2), Euphorbiaceae (1), Fabaceae (4), Gnetaceae (1), Lamiaceae (2), Myristicaceae (1), Piperaceae (1), Rutaceae (1), Solanaceae (1) and Zingiberaceae (3). The plants encountered reviewed various life forms of which trees and shrubs had the highest occurring spices with eight (8) plants while herbs had six (6) plants and climber was least with one (1) plant. Seeds comprised of fourteen (14) species while leaves spices accounted for five (5) plants. Rhizomes spices encountered accounted for two (2) plants while those plants whose stem are used as spices recorded a single plant species. The result of this study shows that the people of Ubulu-Uku in Delta State are blessed with numerous plant spices which are essential in food preparation and preservation due to the fact that majority of these spices are cheap and easily affordable.

2 tables, 16 ref

016357   Elias G;Jacob P J;Hareeshbabu E;Mathew V B; Krishnan B;Krishnakumar K (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, St. James' College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chalakudy, Kerala-680 307, Email: refigeetha@rediffmail.com) : Curcumin: transforming the spice to a wonder drug. Int J pharm Sci Res 2015, 6(7), 2671-80.

Turmeric is a spice obtained from the dried rhizomes of Curcuma longa, family Zingiberaceae. It has been extensively used in traditional Indian (Ayurveda) and Chinese medicine for various ailments such as anti-inflammatory, blood purifier and even as a cosmetic. Curcumin, the chief constituent in turmeric has been isolated centuries ago, has been found to have a wide range of pharmacological actions such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial and much more. Thus curcumin and its analogues have immense therapeutic potential for use in rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, HIV-I and Alzheimer's disease. Phase I clinical studies have shown that high doses of curcumin is well tolerated in man. Despite its safety, curcumin still evades clinical use due to poor bioavailability. Novel formulations of curcumin with piperine, soluble fibres of fenugreek, liposomes, micelles, nanoparticles, cyclodextrin and turmerone have shown enhanced bioavailability to some extent, each one having its own limitations. Recent formulation of curcuminoid with 45% turmerone seems to be promising. Further research in this direction is imperative to realize the clinical use of this promising molecule.

78 ref

016356   Choudhury M K;Shiferaw Y;Hussen A (Chemistry Dep, The School of Postgraduate Studies, Dilla Univ, P O Box 419, Dila, Ethiopia, Email: mkchoudhury2001@yahoo.co.in) : Toxicity of Millettia ferruginea darasana (family: fabaceae) against the larvae and adult ticks of Amblyomma variegatum fabricius a three-host tick in cattle. J parasitic Dis 2015, 39(2), 298-302.

The in vitro toxicity of Millettia ferruginea darasana (family: Fabaceae) was tested against the larvae adult male and female of a three-host tick, Amblyomma variegatum Fabricius (family: Ixodidae or hard tick), known as 'tropical bont tick' parasitic mainly to cattle found in Ethiopia and other equatorial Africa. The 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100% concentrations of the seed oil extracted with petroleum ether were found to kill all (100% mortality) larvae after 12, 9, 6, 3 and 1.5 h respectively. The results summarized in the Table 1 was found to be statistically significant at the probability level of p = 0.05. The 100% concentration of the oil caused 100% mortality of adult male, adult female and fully engorged female tick after 5, 7 and 12 h respectively. The root and root bark showed less toxicity. The leaves did not show any toxicity.

3 tables, 34 ref

016355   Chauhan A;Bakshi M (Plant Physiology Discipline, Botany Div Forest Research Institute, Dehradun-248 006, Uttarkhand, Email: aradhana.chauhan@gmail.com) : Genotypic variation in rooting response of softwood nodal cuttings of Dalbergia sissoo as influenced by seasons. Ann For 2015, 23(1), 1-10.

In this experiment, rooting response of softwood nodal cuttings of five diverse clones was observed to investigate the genetic variability in different seasons. Five superior clones were selected established in VMG, Dehradun. Among five clones, the maximum rooting, sprouting and sprout number was observed in clone 86. Maximum numbers of roots, leaflet number, shoot length and root length was discernible in clone 14. Seasonal variation revealed variable response with maximum sprouting and rooting in season two (May-June), while number of roots, root length, sprout number, sprout length and leaflet number was better in season one (Feb.-March). The highest rooting %, sprouting % and sprout number was observed in clone 86 in season two (May-June). Clone 14 showed maximum leaflet number, root number and root length in season one, while maximum sprout length was attained by clone 46 in same season. Rooting declined in season three (Aug.-Sept.). Variations among season were highly significant for all rooting parameters. The interaction of clone with season was only significant for rooting, sprouting percentage, sprout length and root length. The findings of this work suggest that selection of genotypes with good coppicing, rooting, survival can be made to produce maximum number of high quality planting stock in Shisham in best season.

2 illus, 4 tables, 20 ref

016354   Chanda S;Parekh J;Vaghasiya Y;Dave R; Baravalia Y;Nair R (Phytochemical, Pharmacological and Microbiological Laboratory, Saurashtra Univ, Rajkot-360 005, Gujarat) : Medicinal plants - from traditional use toxicity assessment. Int J pharm Sci Res 2015, 6(7), 2652-70.

Herbal medicine is gaining popularity once again and there is an increased interest in green medicine simply because it is considered as safe. Traditionally also plants and plant extracts were used to cure many diseases and disorders. However, before usage it is of utmost important to ensure its safety. The extract may be therapeutically very efficient but if it's toxicity assessment is not worked out, it will not be accepted. Hence, toxicity assessment of plants with proven therapeutic use is of utmost important. Toxicity data are required to predict the safety associated before the use of medical products. In the present review, parameters required to be analyzed in acute, sub acute and chronic toxicity are discussed with their relevant importance. In the end ninty eight plants whose toxicity is worked out are listed along with their botanical name, family, ethnomedicinal uses, part used, solvent used, safety levels, dose levels used, route of administration, LD₅₀ values and references. Researchers who wish to work on some pharmacological activity can directly choose one of these plants since their toxicity assessment is already done.

^iia150 ref

016353   Chakraborty K;Shivakumar A;Ramachandran S (Research and Development, The Himalaya Drug Company, Makali, Tumkur Road, Bangalore-562 162) : Nano-technology in herbal medicines. Int J herb Med 2016, 4(3), 21-7.

Herbal medicines have been used from years throughout the world; especially in India, herbal medicines are in high demand. The use of herbal medicines has increased because of their ability to treat different diseases with fewer side effects. The development of novel drug delivery system (NDDS) is of considerable importance to overcome various constraints like poor bioavailability, in vivo stability, aqueous insolubility, intestinal absorption and unspecific site of action. The integration of the Nano science as a NDDS in traditional system of medicine enriches the potential of herbal drugs for treating chronic diseases such as cancer and ravaging diseases. The synthesis of nanoparticles can be achieved by adopting the novel methodologies such as Polymer nanoparticle, Magnetic nanoparticle and Metallic nanoparticle depending on characteristic of the nanoparticles. The advanced technologies will shed lights for characterizing the nanoparticles to determine the toxicity profiles for their physical and chemical properties. This review article will provide a brief discussion of Nanoparticles synthesis, characterization by various techniques for production and its future impact of nanotechnology on smart herbal drugs.

^iia4 illus, 1 table, 65 ref

016352   Bora D;Mehmud S;Das K K;Bharali B K;Das D; Neog B;Hatimuria R;Raidongia L (Survey of Medicinal Plants Unit, North Eastern India Ayurveda Research Institute, Borsojai, Guwahati (Assam)-781 028) : Credibility of medico-ethnobotanical uses of members of aroid family in Assam (India). Int J herb Med 2016, 4(3), 9-14.

Aroids or the members of Araceae Family are distributed worldwide with 117 genera and 3790 species. In India including North east India though various floristic works has been carried out very few records of ethnobotanical works can be found which are scattered in various journals and periodicals, making the data mostly not easily accessible to researchers. Cross cultural ethno-botany is essential not only in authenticating and assessing the values of plant lore's but also in credibility testing of folklore claims and also finding out the new and less known use of plants. Ethno-Pharmacology has become a scientific backbone in the development of active therapeutics based upon traditional medicine of various ethnic groups. The present communication is a review based on the reported folklore medicinal claims involving members of the Aroid family used by different tribes in Assam for various disease conditions. The present study has brought into light 82 prescriptions of plant folk medicines covering more than 60 disease conditions represented by 14 aroid species and 10 genera. Among the total plant species enumerated in this communication, positive correlation between folklore use and biological activities has been recorded in preliminary review for only 4 plant species. Here an attempt has been made to test the credibility of the folklore claims by cross cultural studies among different tribes and to corroborate the claims with reported biological activities of the species in due course for scientific validation.

2 tables, 78 ref

016351   Banerjee S;Rao M S;Banerjee S K (NO, Institute of Wood Sciences & Technology 18th Cross, Malleswaram, Bangalore-560 003) : Ground flora diversity under man-made forests of different spacings in stress site. Ann For 2015, 23(1), 45-58.

Plantation ecosystem, particularly in stress site, provides unique condition and changing environment. The modified environment gives ever-changing pattern of competition. Invasion of newer and more aggressive species also takes place all the time. Competition leads to elimination of weaker elements on the one hand and increases in population of better adjusted ones on the other hand. The present investigation deals with the assessment of floral diversity in open stress sites and under plantation of Dalbergia sissoo and to identify new introductions and elimination of species in plantations of different spacing. A comparison of ground flora species occurring in 2mx2m and 4mx4m plantation of Dalbergia sissoo and open land revealed that all together 32 species were eliminated in 2mx2m spacing and 17 species were eliminated in 4mx4m spacing with reference to the open land. The new introduction included 8 species in 2mx2m spacing and 22 in 4mx4m spacing. The highest number of new introduction in 2mx2m spacing consisted of 2 species each in Poaceae and Amranthaceae families and one each in Euphorbiaceae, Convolvulaceae, Solanaceae and Malvaceae family. It was important to note that 7, 11 and 12 species in 2mx2m, 4mx4m and open land respectively were of medicinal value. Elimination of species was found maximum in Poaceae (4) followed by Papilionaceae (3), Convolvulaceae (2), Cesalpiniaceae (2), Nyctaginaceae (1), Cyperaceae (1) and Malvaceae (1). With respect to new introduction, 5 species were introduced in Poaceae family followed by one each in Convolvulaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Sterculiaceae and Papilionaceae.

3 illus, 5 tables, 17 ref

016350   Bajpai O;Pandey J;Chaudhary L B (NO, , Plant Diversity, Systematics and Herbarium Div, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Email: omeshbajpai@gmail.com) : Consequences of western disturbance-triggered cooling on the flowering of tree species in the Himalayan Terai Region. Curr Sci 2015, 109(10), 1781-2.

1 illus, 23 ref

016349   Arzu Y;Thiagarajan T (NO, Faculty of Science and Technology Univ of Belize, Belize, Central America) : Medicinal plants used by the Rastafarian community in Belize. Int J herb Med 2016, 4(3), 15-20.

There is an increased focus on the use of medicinal plant products globally due to empirical research carried out on ethnic usage of plants. However some locally used products that are not fully investigated and documented. Documenting local use of medicinal plants by minority socio-ethnic groups is an important first step in advancing the usage of herbal medicine. Rastafarians are a unique cultural group which has strong belief in medicinal herbal usage. Interviews were conducted among several locally known "herbal healers" in the Rastafarian community of Belize. Rastafarians in Belize are a unique community that comprises of members from other ethnic groups including the Garinagu and Creole. Following the interviews, data was collected on the plants they use, for which ailments and what procedures are undertaken for preparation and application. These plants are used to treat a range of diseases from neurological disorders such as epileptic seizures to urinary tract infections and others being used mainly as aphrodisiacs or soothing menstrual cramps in women. Thirty four (34) plants were identified taxonomically fitting into 25 different families and the data was organized with each plant's locally renowned healing ability and procedures. With many of the small and remote villages in Belize not having complete and unrestricted access to medical facilities, most ailments are tended to by these local "herbal healers" irrespective of religion, ethnicity or creed. A survey conducted among the herbal healers indicated that there is need to educate and protect the important medicinal plants as there is gradual depletion of certain important medicinal plant species.

2 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

016348   Alambayan J;Vats M;Sardana S (Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Dep, International Instiutte of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vidyagram, Jhundpur, Sonepat-131 023, Email: jyoti.sumit19@gmail.com) : HPTLC qualification & phytochemical investigation of roots of Acacia catechu willd. Int J pharm Sci Res 2015, 6(7), 2998-3004.

Present work has been undertaken to establish the necessary pharmacognostic standards and phytochemical evaluation of roots of Acacia catechu Willd. Various morphological parameters of fresh as well as shade dried form of the roots were studied. Microscopy shows the presence of medullary rays, starch grains, pith, phloem fibres, cork cells and xylem cells. Physico-chemical constants such as Fluorescence analysis of root powder and extracts, ash values, loss on drying, extractive value, swelling index, percentage extractive values for successive extracts, consistency and color of different extracts under ordinary and UV light were evaluated. Phytochemical screening of total ethanolic and aqueous extracts shows the presence of flavonoids, tannins, saponin glycosides, & reducing sugars. HPTLC was carried out for quantification of quercetin in ethanolic extract of the roots of A. catechu Willd. It was concluded that plant contains various phytochemicals; among these tannins and flavonoids are its main constituents.

24 ref

015224   Zhang X C (Herbarium, State Key Laboratory of Systematic and Evolutionary Botany, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing-100 093, P.R. China, Email: zhangzc@ibcas.ac.cn) : Glmnosphaera au stroyunnavensis (S. G. Lu) S. G Lu & Chun X. Li: a new record tree fern from North Vietnam. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 132-4.

Unique tree fern Gymnosphaera austroyunnanensis (S. G. Lu) S. G. Lu & Chim X. Li was reported from Vietnam for the first time. It was originally only know from South Yunnan of China.

1 illus, 5 ref

015223   Yadav B L;Meena K (Botany Dep, M.L.V. Govt. College, Bhilwara-311 001, Email: drblyadav@yahoo.com) : Effect of hyperthermia on cell membrane permeability of some Indian species of Selaginella beauv. from Rajasthan. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 202-6.

Effect of hyperthermia on cell membrane permeability in two species of Selaginella Beauv. occurring in Rajasthan has been investigated. Selaginella repanda of Gwapernath (Kota) population has been found to exhibit the highest membrane stability and the least membrane stability in terms of leaching of sugars and proteins has been observed in Selaginella ciliaris at thermal treatment of 35°C and 40°C temperature for a specified period of time. These observations are in confirmation with growth and survival of these species in nature.

2 tables, 19 ref

015222   Yadav B L;Hussain S (Bottany Dep, M.L.V. Government College, Bhilwara-311 001, Email: drblyadav@yahoo.com) : Impact of habitat conditions on photosynthetic pigments in some pteridophytic species from Kumbhalgarh wildlife sancturay of Rajasthan, India. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 147-53.

Photosynthetic pigments in three pteridophytic taxa namely Aleuritopteris bicolor (Roxb.) Fras.-.Jenk. [= Cheilanthes bicolor (Roxb.) Fraser - Jenk.], Aleuritopteris anceps (Blanf.) Panigrabi (= Cheilanthes anceps Blanf.) and Hypodematium crenatum (Forsk.) Holttum subsp. crenatum occurring in a variety of habitats at Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary of Rajasthan have been investigated. In general higher quantity of photosynthetic pigments (Chl. a, Chl. b, and total carotenoids) have been observed in H. crenatum (Forsk.) Holttum subsp. crenatum followed by Aleuritopteris anceps (Blanf.) Panigrahi and lower in the Aleuritopteris bicolor (Roxb.) Fras.-Jenk. Photosynthetic pigments were found to be higher in all these three taxa growing in shade and moist conditions and the lower quantity of pigments was observed in these species growing in open and dry conditions. Photosynthetic pigments and their role in survival of these taxa in different habitat conditions in nature have been presented.

4 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

015221   Valifard M;Mohsenzadeh S;Kholdebarin B (Biology Dep, Faculty of Sciences, Shiraz Univ, 71454 Shiraz, Iran, Email: mohsenzadeh@susc.ac.ir) : Sodium chloride induced changes in photosynthetic performance and biochemical components of Salvia macrosiphon. Indian J Pl Physiol 2015, 20(1), 79-85.

Salvia macrosiphon is a medicinal plant belonging to Lamiaceae family, which has many pharmaceutical properties. In the present investigation, effects of different levels of salinity [0.4 (control), 2.3, 4.5, 6.8 dS m^{-1] were studied on photosynthesis and some biochemical constituents of S. macrosiphon plants at vegetative stage. Our results showed that reduction in photosynthesis in salt stressed plants caused not only by reduction in available CO2 due to stomatal closure, but also by the cumulative effects of stomatal resistance and transpiration rate. Salinity caused a significant increase in leaves MDA content as compared to control plants. The amounts of chlorophylls a and b, and carotenoids in S. macrosiphon plants decreased with the increase in external salt concentration. Proline, total soluble carbohydrates, and total soluble protein accumulated significantly in tissues under salt stress. Results presented indicate that S. macrosiphon is able to tolerate low to moderate salinity. These findings should be taken into consideration in the commercial cultivation of this valuable medicinal plant.}

5 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

015220   Uma Maheswari C;Nallathambi P;Prabakaran N (Plant Pathology Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Email: maheshwari_ars@yahoo.co.in) : Morphometric and molecular approaches for the identification of Chaetomium species. J Mycol Pl Pathol 2015, 45(3), 223-38.

Genus Chaetomium Kunze is large in the family Chaetomiaceae and identified by hairy perithecia. They play a major role in degradation of cellulolytic and other organic materials. Some species act as potential biocontrol agents against various plant pathogens. Bioactive molecules from Chaetomium species are found to exhibit broad spectrum antifungal activity. However, Chaetomium is also an invasive pathogen in immunocompromised patients. Thus, proper identification of Chaetomium at species level by applying morphological and molecular tools is necessary to explore this fungus for agriculture and industrial use. Therefore, our study was intended to know the relatedness of morphology with molecular marker based identification. Fifty three isolates of Chaetomium comprises of 18 species were examined morphologically based on taxonomical features, terminal hair character, structure of perithecia, size and shape of ascospores and type of asci. Further, the suitability of molecular marker for the identification of Chaetomium species were assessed by using URP (Universal Rice Primers) and ITS primers. DNA from seventeen isolates was subjected for URP-PCR amplification to obtain polymorphic banding pattern. Among the 4 URP primers (2R, 4R, 6R, and 17R) tested, URP -17R primer was found to be useful for species level identification of Chaetomium. Subsequently, analysis of sequence data from ITS region of rDNA clearly separated twenty one isolates of Chaetomium into 11 different valid species. Comprehensively, the results of our study demonstrate the use of URP and ITS primers for phylogenetic grouping, identification and delimitation of Chaetomium at species level. The morphological characters of asci, ascospores are found to be genetically reliable rather than the terminal hair characters for identification and phylogenetic grouping of species in genus Chaetomium.

7 illus, 2 tables, 36 ref

015219   Tripathi S;Mondal A K (Plant Taxonomy, Biosystematics and Molecular Taxonomy Laboratory (UGC-, Vidyasagar Univ, Midnapore-721 102, Email: akmondal@mail.vidyasagar.ac.in) : Eclipta prostrata (L.) L. (Asteraceae)- an eco-friendly natural hair dye. Curr Sci 2015, 109(6), 1011-1012.

^ssc7 ref

015218   Sweta Kumari;Krishnan V;Jolly M;Sachdev A (Biochemistry Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Email: arcs_bio@yahoo.com) : Reduction in phytate levels and HCL-extractablity of divalent cations in soybean (Glycine max L.) during soaking and germination. Indian J Pl Physiol 2015, 20(1), 44-9.

The poor mineral bioavailability due to high phytic acid content in soybean (Glycine max) reduces its nutraceutical significance. Thus, in the present study effect of soaking and germination was investigated in two Indian soybean cultivars, viz., Pusa 9712 and Kalitur for their phytate and total and HCl-extractable iron, zinc and calcium content. Soaking for 12 h reduced the phytate content by 10-13%, while soaking, followed by germination for 72 h reduced the phytate levels further by 46-65% and increased the extractability of iron, zinc and calcium by 25-36%. A negative correlation (P <60> 0.05) was thus observed with the antinutrient phytic acid and the HCl-extractability of iron, zinc and calcium in the sprouted soybean seeds.

1 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

015217   Singh S K;Rajkumar D;Srivastava S K;Gautam R P (Botany Dep, St. Andrew's College (PG), Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, Email: shashank2771986@gmail.com) : Ferns of Uttar Pradesh- Dudhwa national park-1. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 104-23.

Dudhwa National Park lies in the lowland terai of Uttar Pradesh, India and covers an area of 490.3 km^{2 (189.3 sq mi), with a buffer zone of 190 km2 (73 sq mi). It is part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve located on the Indo-Nepal border in Lakhimpur Kheri District, and has buffer of reserved forest areas on the northern and southern sides. It represents one of the few remaining examples of a highly diverse and productive terai ecosystem, supporting a large number of endangered species, obligate species of tall wet grasslands and species of restricted distribution in the plains of India. Botanical exploration leading: to the first survey of Pteridophytes of the Park was carried out and 18 species are listed and detailed.}

18 illus, 16 ref

015216   Singh A;Sinku U (Botany Dep, Nirmala College, Ranchi-834 001, Email: singhanbhuti29@gmail.com) : Pteridophytic flora of Ranchi district, Jharkhand. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 166-72.

Ranchi district the present study area, is dominated by Tribal population. The main tribes of this region are: Munda, Ho, Kharia, Oraoans and Santhals. These Tribal people have their own custom and medicinal practices. The climate here is quite favorable for the growth of pteridophytic vegetation. The paper deals with the pteridophytic flora of Ranchi district. Twenty four species of terns and ferns allies growing naturally and a cultivated species (Nephrolepis exaltata) are being reported from here. Short descriptions and some ethno botanical notes are also given. An attempt has under taken to bring awareness to the people of this region about the medicinal and other economic attributes of these beautiful plants.

7 ref

015215   Shibila T;Johnson M (Centre for Plant Biotechnology, Botany Dep, St. Xavier's College, Palayamkottai, Tamil Nadu, Email: ptcjohnson@gmail.com) : Effect of plant growth regulators on vegetative propagation of Pteris multiaurita J. agardh. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 31-5.

The present study was intended to produce vegetative propagation protocol for the rare and endangered fern Pteris multiaurita J. Agardh using rhizome segments as explants. For vegetative propagation 5-7 cms in length healthy disease free and wound free rhizome divisions were isolated from the mother plants. The isolated rhizomes were drenched individually with various concentrations of Indole-3-acetic acid, Indole butyric acid, Naphthalene acetic acid and 6-Benzyl amino purine. The distilled water dipped rhizome served as control. After 2 hours the rhizomes were placed on the potted mixture containing Tree Fern fibres, coconut husks fibres, soil and farm yard manure (1:1:1:1). Maximum percentage (98 ± 4.47) of sporophyte proliferations were observed in 2.5 mg/1 of IAA supplemented rhizomes of Pteris multiaurita. The results of present study provided an alternative protocol to multiply the rare and endangered ferns of the Western Ghats, India.

1 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

015214   Sharma P;Bhardwaj N (Botany Dep, Government College, Kota, Rajasthan, India-324 1, Email: priyankasharma17@gmail.com) : Marsilea coromandelina complex population from borawas village of Kota, Rajasthan (India). Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 154-65.

Hadauti plateau has two species of Marsilea. Marsilea minuta is cosmopolitan and frequently found fern growing in the ditches and pond all round the year and Marsilea of. coromandellna is found growing in a small patch enroute Borawas village in the months of Aug-Sep and Dec-Feb. It has been categorized as rare endemic population that needs to be conserved. Present study emphasizes screening of this threatened and endemic population of Marsilea cf. coromandelina and evaluates the main cause of threat. It also measures the conservation needs of this particular species. An attempt has been made in the present study to identify the eco-morphological, phenological, anatomical, phytochemical and reproductive biology parameters of Marsilea coromandelina complex which may help to characterize distinctive features being employed towards specific delimitation in this highly plastic genus. Besides this, analysis of the physiochemical property of soil has also been done, which help in detecting specific type of climatic conditions and nutritional preference of Marsilea coromandelina complex.

7 illus, 19 ref

015213   Sharma B D;Suthar O P;Harsh R (NO, , Kath Mandi, Narnaul-123 001, Email: bdsharma14@yahoo.in) : Variations in morphology of spores of Equisetum ramosissimum desf. collected from Rajasthan, India. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 17-22.

Cones of Equisetum ramosissimum Desf. collected from several places in the state of Rajasthan, like Mt. Abu, Jaipur, Kota, Bundi etc., have been studied by making microtome sections and observed variations in morphology of spores, e.g. alete, monolete, trilete, minute spores, empty spores, germinating spores etc. In literature spores of this horsetail are described only as alete and homosporous. AH kinds of spores are enclosed in spirally twisted, non-cellular elaters. This investigation will help in tracing the phylogeny of Equisetum with other allied pteridophytes.

2 illus, 22 ref

015212   Sharma B D;Bohra D R;Suthar O P;Harsh R (NO, , Kath Mandi, Narnaul-123 001, Email: bdsharma14@yahoo.in) : Mesozoic pteridophytes of the rajmahal hills Jharkhand and associated flora- A palaeo- eological study. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 92-103.

Mesozoic pteridophytes occur in abundance and in enough variations in the Rajmahal Hills, India. The associated flora includes Cycads. Bennettitales, Pentoxylales, Ginkgoales and the conifers. A few fossil representatives of algae, lichens, bryophytes and early angiosperms have also been described from the area. A good number of fossil spores and pollen grains have also been observed in thin alides prepared of slicified cherts of Nipania and sonajori localities. Vegetation and preservational differences are noticed in localities of the northern and southern portions of the area. In addition to the palaeo-ecology of some of the important localities, and overall picture of the entire area has also been suggested and compared to the extant vegetation of sub temperate regions of the Himalayas.

50 illus, 54 ref

015211   Sharma B D;Bohra D R (NO, Kath Mandi, Narnaul-123 001, Email: bdsharma14@yahoo.in) : Fossil plants of the rhynie chert (Lower devonian) Scotland. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 80-4.

Description is given of some new and interesting findings based on the study of quite a good number of slides prepared of a Rhynie chert piece. Creation of new generic name Aglaophylon major (K.&L.) Edwards for Rhynia mjor and suggestions for its association with bryophytes need reconsideration. Phylogeny of columella of Horneophyton is also discussed. Germinating spores within sporangia and outside in the rock matrix are also observed.

10 illus, 24 ref

015210   Sharma A (Botany Dep, P.G. Govt. College for Girls-11, Chandigarh, Email: anurita_b@yahoo.com) : Electron micrographs of five fern species from MT. Karol (Dist. Solan) Himachal Pradesh. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 186-92.

Electron micrographs of five species of ferns collected from Mt. Karol area in Solan Dist. are being given. These are : Adiantum capillus-veneris L., Adiantum edgeworthii Hook., Onychium cryptogrammoides Christ, Pteris aspericaulis Wall. ex J. Agardh (syn. P. pseudoquadriaurita Khullar) and Pteris vittata L. subsp. vittata.

5 illus, 4 ref

015209   Shahriar M;Khair N Z;Sheikh Z;Chowdhury S F; Kamruzzaman M;Bakhtiar M S I;Chisty S J (Pharmacy Dep, Asia Pacific Univ, H NO. 73, Road No. 5A, Dhanmondi, Dhaka-1209, Bangladesh) : Characterization of phytoconstituents and potential bioactivity of Annona reticulata L. leaf extract. J Pharmac Phytochem 2016, 5(1), 42-5.

Annona reticulata (Annonaceae) is known as atafol in Bangla and custard apple in English is an important medicinal plant. It has been used traditionally in diarrhea, dysentery, cold, as abortifacient, insecticidal drug etc. In this present study, the leaf extracts of Annona reticulata were subjected to evaluation of the thrombolytic activity was assessed by using human erythrocyte and the results were compared with standard streptokinase (SK). The chloroform extract showed 36.82% clot lysis as compared to 93.79% clot lysis produced by standard streptokinase. The leaf extracts of Annona reticulata were subjected to evaluation of the membrane stabilizing activity by using human erythrocyte and the results were compared with standard anti-inflammatory drug, acetyl salicylic acid (ASA). In vitro membrane stabilizing activity for hypotonic solution induced haemolysis, the chloroform extract inhibited 75.15% haemolysis of RBCs as compared to 72.99% produced by acetyl salicylic acid (ASA) and during heat induced condition different organicrnsoluble materials of Annona reticulata demonstrated methanol, ethanol and chloroform extract showed 68.81%, 72.06% and 78.17% inhibition of RBC hemolysis respectively whereas standard acetylsalicylic acid showed 70.87% inhibition of RBC haemolysis.

3 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

015208   Sen K;Mukhopadyay R (Botany Dep, Kalyani Univ, Kalyni-741 235, Email: rnm.burdwan@gmail.com) : Enumeration of sclereids and fibers of Indian cheilanthoid ferns. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 193-201.

Investigation on the distribution and abundance of different morpho-form of sclereids and fibres of twenty cheilanthoid ferns have been characterized for the first time by considering mainly the shape size and pitting pattern of the available form following the freehand sections of different plant parts and through maceration study. Eight types of sclereids and seven types of fibres are characterized. These hard tissues are present mainly in the cortex of root, rhizome and stipe and in the hypodermis of leaves. Presence of these tissues in a large part of the plant organs justifies the ecological success of these plants as saxicolous form.

2 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

015207   Scholch A (NO, , Langgewann 22, D-69121 heidelberg, Germany, Email: annette.schoelch@t-online.de) : Sporophyll and sorus development in Osmunda regalis L.. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 221-43.

Sporophyll ontogenesis of Osmunda regalis shows that initially both the vegetative and the reproductive second-order pinnae are characterized by predominant thickening growth. Later in the vegetative pinnae the activity of the marginal blastozone changes in favour of surface growth producing expanded laminar wings with elongating and branching lateral costae. Under the influence of the differentiation of the costae and intercostae the outermost edges of the marginal blastozone become differentiated into costal and intercostal rows of small cells. In the reproductive pinnae, due to the lack of surface growth, blastozone fraclionation of the spore pinna produces only short lateral costae, but their declining blastozones become transformed into receptacles. Similarly to the tips of the lateral costae, also the declining blastozone of the spore pinna apex itself is used up for the formation of receptacular tissue. Based on the new observations made on Osmunda relationships between a soral construction as in Osmunda and one like that in Schizaeaceae are revealed. Both soral constructions differ in the leaf processes involved in their formation, as e.g. blastozone fractionation and laminar reduction, but are similar in that they have a costa-related marginal receptacle producing massive sporangia. The presented morphological results in conjunction with constructional relationships between sporangia as in Osmundaceae and in Mohria and new data obtained from fossils support a phylogenetic relationship of Osmundaceae with Schizaeaceae.

43 illus, 522 ref

015206   Sajaeev S;Pavithra Raj;Adarsh D B;Hegde S (Rondano Biodiversity Research Laboratory, Center for Research and Post Graduate Studies in Biotechnology, St Alo, Mangalore-575 003, Email: smitha_hegde@hotmail.com) : Phytoconstitutents of Nepherolepis hirsutula and Pityrogramma calomelanos, two medicinal ferns of the Western Ghats. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 244-56.

Comparative phytochemical analysis of two important medicinal ferns Nephrolepis hirsutula and Pityrogramma calomelanos was undertaken. Dried leaf powder was subjected to sequential gradient solvent extraction for phytochemicals in a soxhlet apparatus. Preliminary qualitative screening was done for the detection of alkaloids, phenols, tannins, flavonoids, reducing compounds, polyuronides, saponins and terpenoids. Quantification of total phenol content, alkaloids and tannins were done with gallic acid, quercitin and tannic acid as standards. FTIR analysis of the extracts was conducted to compare phytoconstituents. Phytochemical screening of these ferns have revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenols, tannins, flavonoids. reducing compounds, polyuronides, sapouins and terpenoids in the leaf extracts. Quantitative determination of phytochemicals has shown that the total phenol content in N. hirsutula (6.41 ± 0.39 mg/g GAE) is higher than P. calomelanos (2.58 tng/g GAE). P. calomelanos has a high concentration of flavonoids of about 187.13 ± 20.88 mg/g quercitin and 65.35 ± 1.66 mg/g of tannic acid compared to N. hirsutula which has 40.48 ± 0.44 mg/g quercitin and 9.79 ± 0.16.4 mg/g of tannic acid. Our findings suggest that ethanol would be ideal for higher extraction of phytochemicals in N. hirsutula while methanol would be an excellent solvent for P. calomelanos. Flavonoids are responsible for the regulation of growth and disease resistance in plants. High concentration of flavonoids in P. calomelanos suggests reasons for its resilient growth in disturbed urban ecosystem and higher levels of insect resistance. FTIR spectral studies revealed the presence of aldehydes, phenols and aromatic nitro compounds.

5 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

015205   Prashad D;Chandel R S;Gupta P;Rakesh Kumar; Singh G;Dhiman S (NO, Regional Horticulture Research & Training Station and Krishi Vigyan Ke, Sharbo, Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh, Email: dpbhandari47@gmail.com) : Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) community analysis from different agri-horti systems in dry temperate regions of Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. J Mycol Pl Pathol 2015, 45(3), 273-9.

Unique geographical and climatic condition of Kinnaur makes it suitable for good quality apple production besides its own type of agro-hortisystem of traditional climate resilient crops, poor soil strata and frequent fluctuation of diurnal temperature in the district. In nutrient deficient-poor soils of the dry temperate region plants are ecologically dependent on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi for their nutrient and water uptake. Therefore, it is important to study the biodiversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi as this can improve understanding of dry temperate agro-hortisystem functioning, plant succession and re-establishment in nutrient deficient soil and ameliorate other abiotic stresses. In the present study, we have analyzed AM community and found species of six dominant genera, Glomus, Gigaspora, Acaulospora, Scutellospora, Sclerocystis and Entrophospora from three blocks of district Kinnaur. Chemical profiling of the soils of the three blocks indicated high phosphorus, organic carbon and organic matter content after nutrient analysis with varying degree of pH, nitrogen and potassium content which enable us to know their functioning in nutrient depleted soil. There is strict need to identify AM fungi upto species level so that AM fungi can be incorporated for sustainable fruit production.

2 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

015204   Pradhan S;Bhowmick N;Deb P;Ghosh A;Pal P K; Roy B;Paul P K;Ghosh S K (Pomology & Post Harvest Technology Dep, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, Email: nileshbhowmick@gmail.com) : Fruit growth and development of burmese grape (Baccaurea sapida Muell. Arg.). Indian J Pl Physiol 2015, 20(1), 86-91.

Burmese grape (Baccaurea sapida Muell. Arg.) is a minor underexploited fruit crop under the Euphorbiaceae family. In the present investigation an attempt has been made to under the changes in physical and bio-chemical properties during the growth and development period of the fruit. The physical parameters like fruit length, breadth, weight, peel weight, seed weight and pulp percentage increased significantly till maturity. The bio-chemical properties like total soluble solids, total sugar and reducing sugar also increased significantly, while the acidity and pH decreased with the maturity. However, non-reducing sugar did not show a significant increase. The colour of the fruit was green during initial stage and it changed gradually to lighter shades through different shades of green and yellow green and attainted yellow shades at maturity. The specific gravity of the fruit increased till last stage of harvest.

^ssc4 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

015203   Prabhukumar K M;Sreejith P E;Prasad M G; Kabeer A;Balachandran L (Centre for Medicinal Plants Research, Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal, Malappuram-676 503, Email: prabhumkrishna@gmail.com) : Rediscovery of presumed extinct Impatiens concinna hook.f. (Balsaminaceae) from the Western Ghats. Curr Sci 2015, 109(6), 1027-8.

^ssc1 illus, 12 ref

015202   Pokharia A K;Srivastava C;Vikram B;Dimri D N; Nautiyal C M;Sharma S (NO, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, 53 Univ Road, Lucknow-226 007, Email: pokharia.anil@gmail.com) : On the botanical findings from excavations at Ahichchhatra: a multicultural site in upper ganga plain, Uttar Pradesh. Curr Sci 2015, 109(7), 1293-304.

This article embodies an impressive array of data on the carbonized remains of crop plants, weeds and wild taxa recovered from archaeological excavations at Ahichchhatra, a multicultural site in Bareilly district, Uttar Pradesh. The crop-remains are represented by the grains and seeds of Oryza sativa (rice), Hordeum vulgare (barley), Triticum aestivum (bread wheat), Triticum sphaerococcum (dwarf wheat), Pisum arvense (field pea), Lens culinaris (lentil), Lathyrus sativus (grass pea), Vigna sp. (green/black gram), Macrotyloma uniflorum (horse gram), Sesamum indicum (sesame), Linum usitatissimum (linseed) and Gossypium arboreum/herbaceum (cotton) dating back to 1500-100 BC. In addition, a large number of weeds and wild taxa which may be indicative of surrounding ground vegetation and cultivated fields have also been recorded as an admixture in the crop assemblage. The study of the ancient plant remains has been discussed and compared with the information on agriculture remains from other sites in the Ganga Plain.

3 illus, 3 tables, 58 ref

015201   Phebe G T;Verma O P;Charan A A (Molecular and Cellular Engineering Jacob School of Biotechnology and B, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, Email: om.verma@shiats.edu.in) : Comparative analysis of primary metabolites of three medicinal plants. Int J med Sci 2015, 8(1-2), 25-7.

The plants have long served as a major source of medicinal compounds. Medicinal plants are value added for the contents and the chemical composition of their active components. Therefore, the demand of plant based therapeutics has increased many folds because they are natural products, being non-narcotics, having no side effects and easily available at affordable prices. The goal of the present investigation was to estimate soluble sugar, chlorophyll, protein, lipids, phenols and starch from different plants. The highest amount of protein (46.87%), chlorophyll (1.63%) and starch (57.23%) was found in Mangifera indica, suluble sugar (68.75) and lipid (0.03%) was found highest in Moringa oleifera and the highest phenol (0.013%) was obtained from Psidium guajava.

1 table, 23 ref

015200   Padumadasa C;Dharmadana D;Abeysekera A M; Thammitiyagodage M G (Chemistry Dep, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sri Jayewardenepura Univ, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka) : Investigation of aqueous soluble proanthocyanidins in the inflorescence of Cocos nucifera L. J Pharmac Phytochem 2016, 5(1), 36-41.

Proanthocyanidins belong to a class of polyphenolic compounds called flavonoids and they have been reported to exhibit important pharmacological activities. We have previously reported the extraction, purification and characterization of the ethyl acetate soluble proanthocyanidins (EASPA) of the inflorescence of Cocos nucifera L. The aqueous soluble proanthocyanidins (AQSPA) were extracted from the immature inflorescence using acetone/water (7:3) and purified using chromatography on sephadex LH-20. Acid catalyzed cleavage studies and thiolytic studies were carried out to determine the monomeric composition of AQSPA. In addition, AQSPA was subjected to 13C NMR spectroscopy to study the occurrence of proanthocyanidins in this fraction. The AQSPA fraction of an acetone/water (7:3) extract of Cocos nucifera L. inflorescence was purified by chromatography on Sephadex LH-20 to yield purified AQSPA as an off white powder in 1.17% on dry weight basis. Acid catalyzed cleavage followed by TLC analysis indicated that AQSPA is composed of (epi)catechin and (epi)afzelechin monomeric units while thiolysis followed by NMR spectroscopy revealed the monomers to be the epi-isomers. 13C NMR studies of AQSPA showed signals characteristic for epicatechin units indicating that AQSPA is composed mainly of epicatechin units with few of epiafzelechin units as previously reported for EASPA. However, AQSPA is comprised of high molecular weight proanthocyanidins and the oligomeric profile is different to that of EASPA.

4 illus, 24 ref

015199   Morajkar S;Sajeev S;Hegde S (Rondano Biodiversity Research Laboratory, St Aloysius College, Mangalore, Karnataka, Email: smitha_hegde@hotmail.com) : DNA barcode for Stenochlaena palustris: an edible medicinal fern. Indian Fern J 2015, 32(1-2), 124-31.

DNA Barcoding is a novel technique in the field of molecular systematics. It is based on the similarities and differences in the specific gene loci, which are used to identify and/or differentiate one species from another. We report standardised a method to develop a barcode using Stenochlaena palustris (Burm.f.) Bedd. as a representative of Pteridophyte widely known for its medicinal properties. This barcode aided confirmation of the identity of S. palustris. The DNA Barcode was obtained from BOLD systems after examining the sequence data of the fern sample in Codon Code Aligner v 5.0.2. The relatedness of the current specimen of Stenochlaena palustris with other reported specimens of Stenochlaena species and its closely related genus were inferred as to see the utility in identification and differentiation supremacy of the DNA Barcoding technique. In this study we also present the pbylogenetic analysis of Stenochlaena palustris and its phenotypically similar species based on the rbcL loci.

6 illus, 17 ref

015198   Kohls S;Scholz-Bottcher B M;Teske J; Rullkotter J (Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky Univ of Oldenburg, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Str. 9-11, D-26129 Oldenburg, Germany, Email: j.rullkoetter@icbm.de) : Isolation and quantification of six cardiac glycosides from the seeds of Thevetia peruviana provide a basis for toxological survey. Indian J Chem-Sect B 2015, 54(12), 1502-10.

In order to support toxicological assessment of poisoning from the ingestion of plant material containing thevetia cardiac glycosides, a new isolation method has been developed for thevetia glycosides from the seeds of the Yellow Oleander [Thevetia peruviana (Pers.) K. Shum, Apocynaceae] with yellow and orange flowers, respectively, using accelerated solvent extraction. The relative proportions of four cardiac-active thevetia glycosides (thevetin A and B, acetylthevetin A and B) and two additional, cardiac-inactive thevetia glycosides (thevetin C and acetylthevetin C) in the extract were determined using an LC-ESI^{+-MS/MS technique. Absolute quantification of thevetin B was achieved using a pure standard of this compound isolated by preparative high performance liquid chromatography.}

4 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

015197   Kiran S;Surekha M;Reddy S M (Botany Dep, Toxicology Laboratory, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009, Email: sainik244@gmail.com) : Succession of mycotoxigenic fungi and biochemical changes in paddy stored in different storage structures. J Mycol Pl Pathol 2015, 45(3), 251-6.

Succession of mycotoxigenic fungi on the seed surface of paddy (MTU-1010) during one year storage (November-2012 to October-2013) was investigated. In all 35 fungal species representing 20 genera were recorded. Fungal composition of stored paddy changed significantly both qualitatively and quantitatively both with the time of storage and storage structure. In general, fungal infestation of paddy was more in seeds stored in earthen pot and least on seeds stored in polythene bag. Significant biochemical changes in seeds during their storage was recorded. Protein content increased while reducing sugars decreased with the progress of storage period. Among the moulds present on paddy seed surface, variety of mycotoxigenic fungi were observed. Aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, zearalenone, nivalenol, DON, citrinin and CPA were elaborated by more number of strains of respective fungi.

3 tables, 26 ref

015196   Khan M;Dubey S (Botany Dep, Govt. Degree College, Mendhar, Jammu Kashmir) : Some observations of medicinal folklores of dogras inhabiting Shivalik hills of Jammu and Kashmir state. Indian J Life Sci 2015, 4(2), 25-31.

Studies were carried in the shivalik mountain range with an aim to document the indigenous knowledge on the ethno medico folklores of Dogras. During the surveys in the area and interaction with the local populace 67 plant species were recorded which were deeply interwoven in Dogra culture. These plant species were used to cure a varied range of diseases and ailments using diverse plant species and plant parts. The most frequently plant parts used were roots, leaves, flower, seed, bark, fruit etc. in some cases whole plants were used.

1 table, 40 ref

015195   Keerthika A;Shukla A K;Khandelwal V (Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Regional Research Station, Pali-Marwar-306 401, Email: lathikaconifers@gmail.com) : Popularization of Manilkara hexandra (Khirni)- an endangered underutilized fruit tree for conservation and utilization. Curr Sci 2015, 109(6), 1010-11.

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015194   Katiyar D;Singh V;Ali M (Pharmacognosy Dep, KITE School of Pharmacy, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, Email: katiyar_deepti@yahoo.co.in) : Phytochemical and pharmacological profile of Pterocarpus marsupium. Pharma Innovation 2016, 5(4), 31-5.

Natural Products have been prescribed since ages for the treatment of various ailments. Numerous traditional systems of medicine have utilized the potential of medicinal plants. Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb. (Fabaceae) is one such herbal drug which finds its place in Ayurveda, Unani and Homeopathic system of medicine. Nature has bestowed this herb with a high versatility due to which it exhibits a wide range of Pharmacological actions. Pterocarpus marsupium commonly known as Indian Kino tree or Asana or Vijayasar is a large deciduous tree found in the subtropical regions of the world. It is highly enriched with an array of phytoconstituents including pterosupin, pterostilbene, liquirtigenin, isoliquiritigenin, epicatechin, kinoin, kinotannic acid, kino-red beta-eudesmol, carsupin, marsupol, marsupinol and so on. Many of these constituents have been explored for numerous biological actions like analgesic, anti-bacterial, anti-cancer, anti-cataract, anti-diabetic, anti-fungal, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, aphrodisiac, cardiotonic, hepatoprotective etc. Thus, the current review aims to provide the complete phytochemical and pharmacological profile of Pterocarpus marsupium which would surely be beneficial for future researchers.

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