001327   Sundar A N;Jawahar M (Botany Dep, J.J. College of Arts and Science, Pudukkotai, Tamil Nadu, Email: somajainn@yahoo.co.in) : In vitro propagation of an important traditional medicinal plant Carrisa carandas L.. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), .

High frequency of plant regeneration from shoot tip explants of Carrisa carandas L. was standardized. Shoot tip explants were cultured on MS medium supplemented with different concentration of BAP (2.22 to 22.20 μM/l) and KN (2.42 to 23.20 μM/l) for direct shoot induction. The frequency of multiple shoot induction and proliferation increased with increasing concentration of BAP (13.32 μM/l) and KN (13.92 μM/l) at optimal level. The high frequency of multiple shoot proliferation was observed on MS medium containing 13.32 μM/l BAP and 13.92 μM/l KN. The regenerated shoots were successfully rooted on 1/2 MS medium supplemented with IBA 4.92 μM/l, after sequential hardening, survival rate was 80%.

2 tables, 26 ref

001326   Suman Kumari;Kamini Kumar (Botany Univ Dep, Ranchi Univ, Ranchi, (Jharkhand)-834 008) : Comparative karyomorphological analysis among two varieties of Cymbopogon martinii. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 339-42.

Cymbopogon martiniivar. Motia and Sofia were collected from Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi. Cymbopogon martinii var. Motia were diploid with 2n = 20 whereas var. Sofia were tetraploid with 2n = 40 chromosomes. The karyotype of Cymbopogon martinii were nearly median, submedian and nearly submedian type. Chromosomes with secondary constriction were found in var. Motia and it was completely absent in var. Sofia.

3 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

001325   Srivastava M;Gupta U P;Sinha A (NO, Harish Chandra P.G. College, Varanasi-221 001, Email: sri.manisha.25@gmail.com) : Influence of bean common mosaic virus infection on protein, nitrogen, amino acid and leghaemoglobin content in hyacinth bean. J mycopathol Res 2013, 51(1), 81-7.

Hyacinth bean, Dolichos lablab L. is a common bean. It is a summer growing annual or short-lived perennial fodder legume. Experiment conducted to find out the influence of Bean common mosaic virus on the protein, nitrogen, amino acid content in healthy and diseased hyacinth bean leaves, stem and roots and Leghaemoglobin content in nodules at different intervals 15, 30, 45, 60 and 75th days after inoculation. Total protein, nitrogen and amino acid content was found to be high in virus infected Dolichos lablab L. crop at 60th days interval. Nodules of healthy plants have higher leghaemoglobin content than those of virus infected hyacinth bean.

3 tables, 44 ref

001324   Srivastava A;Mishra A K (Laboratory of Microbial Genetics, Botany Dep, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005, Email: akmishraau@rediffmail.com) : Regulation of nitrogen metabolism in salt tolerant and salt sensitive Frankia strains. Indian J expl Biol 2014, 52(4), 352-8.

Effect of salinity (0, 50, 100, 250, 500 and 750 mM NaCl) was observed on some important physiological parameters of nitrogen metabolism such as nitrate uptake, intracellular and extracellular ammonium status and activities of nitrogenase, nitrate reductase, nitrite reductase and glutamine synthetase among Frankia strains differing in their salt tolerance capacity. Nitrogenase activity closely followed the growth pattern with regular decline on NaCl supplementation. All the other enzymes showed optimum activity at 100 mM and declined further. Co-regulation of the nitrate uptake system and sequential enzyme activities plays a crucial role in governing the nitrogen status of strains during salt stress. HsIi10 experiencing minimum decline in enzyme activities and best possible nitrogen regulation under NaCl replete condition showed adequate nutritional management. Among all the strains, HsIi10 proved to be salt tolerant on account of above features while the salt sensitive strain HsIi8 lacked the ability to regulate various steps of nitrogen metabolism during salinity, and thus Frankia strain HsIi10 can potentially serve as a potential biofertilizer in the saline soil.

6 illus, 1 table, 37 ref

001323   Srinivasa Rao K;Rattan Kumar V (Botany Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: kalichetisrao@gmail.com) : Studies on In vitro morphogenesis in oregano (Oreganum vulgare hirtum.). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 357-62.

Oregano (Oreganum vulgare) is a short lived perennial shrub belonging to the famiiy Lamiaceae has good importance in the medicinal industry. For micropropagation nodal segments of 1.0 to 1.5 cm were used as explants. Primary cultures were established with 70% response on the MS media with kinetin 0.5 mg/l. The medium supplemented with 1 mg/l BAP and 0.5 mg/l NAA were found to be suitable for simultaneous production of multiple shoots and roots in 30 days of culture. For callogenesis studies, tender leaf segments are found to be ideal. Out of the 3 auxins studied NAA was found to be superior and lower concentrations i.e. less than 1.5 mg/l of all the three auxins: MS medium with 3 mg/l NAA has been noticed to be the optimum medium for production of callus and further proliferation of the callus through sub culturing at monthly intervals. Out of the 18 combinations tried, BAP & Kinetin each at a concentration of lmg/1 was found to be the optimum for simultaneous production of the shoots and roots from the callus. In the present study reproducible protocols for the micropropagation of oregano (Oreganum vulgare) and for the production of callus and plantlet regeneration from the callus have been successfully standardized.

3 tables, 12 ref

001322   Sonawane V B;Saler R S;Sonawane M D (Botany and Research Centre Dep, K.T.H.M. College, Shivaji Nagar, Ganeapur Road, Nashik-2, Email: vbsonawane97@gmail.com) : Plant resources used for the treatment of oral cavity disorders by tribal from Dhadgaontahsil, Nandurbar (MS). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 601-3.

An ethno-botanical study was carried out to investigate the uses of medicinal plants for oral health care, particularly in tooth cavity, by people of different aborigines, such as Pawras, Bhills, Koknas, Valvis, Vasaves in the Dhadgaon tahsil. Data was collected by interviewing native people and local traditional medicineman of different villages. Information about local names, plant parts preparation and its uses were recorded. Present studies indicate the information from many tribal communities of different villages of Nandurbar district. Still today the people are depending on plants resources to meet their day to day needs and use plant based formulations from generation to generation for treatment of health related problems. Now, the tribal societies are progressing towards modernization: their knowledge of traditional use of plants might be lost. Therefore conservation of such traditional medicinal plants is necessary for our society.

1 table, 10 ref

001321   Smitha K R;Annu S M;Babu T D;Achuthan C R (Amala Cancer Research Centre, , Amala Nagar P.O., Thrissur-680 555) : Phytochemical analysis and determination of antitumor activity of Uvaria narum Wall. Amala Res Bull 2013, 33, 101-6.

Plants belonging to Annonaceae family are important source of promising anti-cancer agents. Uvaria narum Wall., a locally available plant under Annonaceae is less explored for its pharmacological properties. In the present study, petroleum ether extract (PE) of U narum leaf showed significant cytotoxicity towards neoplastic cells. While in - 91 - normal spleen cells, the extract did not show appreciable toxicity. Oral administration of sub lethal concentrations (10 and 20 mg/kg bwt) of the extract was found to inhibit the DLA induced solid tumor development in mice. Compared to cyclophosphamide (CTX), a known antitumor agent, the tumor reducing efficacy ofPE extract was less, however showed considerable reduction in the CTX induced myelosuppression. Phytochemical screening of the extract as well as its TLC fractions revealed the abundance of terpenoids along with alkaloids, polyphenolics and coumarins. It is thought that the terpenoid and alkaloid contents may be responsible for the observed selective cytotoxicity and antitumor properties of the extract.

6 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

001320   Singh N;Arya J S;Maurya S B;Srivastava R B (NO, Defenced Institute of High Altitude Research, Leh-Ladakh (J&K)-194 101, Email: narendradrdo@yahoo.co.in) : Rumex (Rumex patientia L.) - spinach of high-altitude cold desert. Curr Sci 2013, 104(5), 574.

1 illus, 6 ref

001319   Shiragave P D;Patil P C (NO, Devchand College, Arjunnagar, Via-Nipani, Tal. Kagal, Dist. Kolhapur-591 237) : Survey of ethano-medicinal plants from Kagal tahsil of Kolhapur district (Maharashtra). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 595-9.

Floristic survey of ethno-medicinal plants occurring in the Kagal Tahsil in Kolhapur District was conducted to assess the potentially of plant resources for advanced treatments. The present study highlights useful ethno-medicinal information about the uses of plants by the Kagal Tahsil of Kolhapur. In the present work details of 52 ethno-medicinal plant species belonging to 31 families with regard to their botanical name, family, common name, part used and uses are included. The medicinal practitioners as well as local are treating the common diseases like cough cold, piles, diabetes, Skin diseases, wounds, rheumatism, Hepatitis, fever, toothache etc. by using these plants.

1 table, 10 ref

001318   Sharma O P (Botany Dep, Govt. College, Bundi (Rajasthan), Email: opsharmabundi68@gmail.com) : Angiospermic associate species of pteridophytes of Bundi (south-east Rajasthan): a case study. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 473-4.

The study described the angiospenn-pteridophytic association in Bundi. Study of the area revealed that fifteen species belonging to eleven genera of pteridophytes were recorded from various localities of the district during the year 1995 to 2003 and in recently revised survey during 2009 to 2011. In present communication angiospermic species occurring near fern habitat have been listed.

1 table, 8 ref

001317   Sen S K;Behera L M (Botany Dep, Panchayat College, Bargarh-768 028, Email: sunilsen06@rediffmail.com) : Ethnomedicinal practices for mother and childcare in western Orissa, India. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 425-8.

Out of 30 districts in Odisha Western Odisha comprises of 10 districts - 90 - such as Bargarh, Bolangir, Boudh, Deogarh, Jharsuguda, Kalahandi, Nuapada, Sambalpur, Subarnapur and Sundargarh. The districts are rich with varieties of plants in their hills' and forests. The main tribes include Bhuiyan, Binjhal, Gond, Kharia, Kisan, Kondh, Munda, Oran and Sahanra (Saora). They use different plants by themselves or in consultance with the local herbal medicinal practitioners for treatment of different ailments. The present paper highlights the plants used by them for mother and childcare. The botanical names with family name, local name, locality and collection number, methods of preparation, usage and mode of administration of drugs for treatment of corresponding ailments and disorders of mother and child care have been discussed.

23 ref

001316   Sen S;Chakraborty R;Verma A;De B;Devanna N; Dey B K (Pharmacy Dep, Assam down town University, , Email: saikat.pharm@rediffmail.comGuwahati, Assam) : Evaluation of antioxidant activity of Saraca indica leaves extracts using in vitro and ex vivo models. J scient ind Res 2014, 73(3), 157-62.

Saraca indica, a folk medicinal plant of India and recognized for its important medicinal value in Ayurveda. In the present study, an attempt was made to evaluate the antioxidant activity of methanol, chloroform and petroleum ether extract of Saraca indica leaves using several in vitro and ex vivo models.Total flavanoid and phenolic content of the extracts were also determined. All extracts produced antioxidant activity in oncentration dependent manner. Methanol extracts produced highest in vitroantioxidant activity and possess higher amount of total phenolic (14.7 μg gallic acid equivalent/mg) and total flavonoid content (25.1 μg quercetin equivalent/mg). Methanol and chloroform extract showed a higher inhibition of lipid peroxidation than the standard drug rutin. Methanol extract produced better inhibition of oxidative erythrocyte haemolysis than ascorbic acid, while chloroform extracts produced similar effect like that of ascorbic acid. Results indicated that petroleum ether, chloroform, and methanol extract of Saraca indica leaf possess potent antioxidant property. Presence of phenolic, flavanoid content may responsible for the antioxidant activity.

3 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

001315   Sen D N (NO, Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur-342 001, Email: profdnsen@rediffmail.com) : Field studies in botany are essential. Curr Sci 2013, 104(2), 158-9.

3 illus, 6 ref

001314   Sanjeev Kumar;Agarwal A (Botany Dep, Bareilly College, Bareilly-243 001) : Bio-efficacy of fenoxaprop-p-ethy, metsulfuron-methyl and metribuzin on control of weed Phalaris minor retz. in wheat field. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 509-11.

Field experiment was conducted to study the bio-efficacy of different herbicides for control of weed Phalaris minor Retz. in wheat field during winter seasons of 2005-06 and 2006-07. There was drastic reduction in the population and dry weight of Phalaris minor when fenoxaprop-p-ethyl at 90 g.a.i./ha was applied in wheat crop. This treatment also gave maximum value of crop dry weight, Plant height, number tillers/plant, spike length, number of grains/spike and 1000 grain weight of wheat. The weed control efficiency of this treatment was recorded 81.62 and 81.91% during 2005-06 and 2006-07, respectively. Metribuzin at 70 g.a.i./ha was also effective in controlling the population and dry weight of Phalaris minor. These herbicide treatments provided higher values of yield attributes and crop dry weight over weedy (control) during both the years. Maximum crop dry weight was recorded in weed-free plots (1.431 and 1.512 Kg/m^{2) and minimum in weedy plots (1.009 and 0.895 Kg/m2) during both the years of 2005-06 and 2006-07.}

3 tables, 9 ref

001313   Salve K M;More A D (Post-Graduate Research Station, Botany Dep, Fergusson College, Pune-411 004, Email: skbotany@gmail.com) : Study of pollen sterility in Coriandrum sativum, Linn. (coriander). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 537-8.

Coniondrum sativum Linn. (2n = 22) belongs to family Apiaceae, commonly known as coriander. It has great economic value in Indian agriculture. It is used as a condiment and forms an ingredient in curry powder. Coriandrum sativum Linn. was raised by treating the seeds with concentrations of chemical mutagen Ethyl Methane Sulphonate (EMS) like 0.05%, 0.075%, 0.10% and 0.125% and physical mutagen Gamma rays at the dosage of 10 kR, 20 kR, 30 kR, and 40 kR. Effect of these mutagens on pollen sterility was studied in M₁ generation. In control it was 0.87%. The maximum sterility was seen at 40 kR dosage. Of the two mutagens high dose of Gamma rays revealed the maximum sterility than the EMS concentrations.

1 table, 4 ref

001312   Sahu S K;Kathiresan K (NO, , ) : Molecular and physicochemical characterization of metallothionein genes of mangroves-a computational approach. Indian J Pl Physiol 2014, 19(1), 60-73.

Metallothioneins (MTs) are a family of low-molecular-weight cysteine-rich multifunctional proteins involved in metal stress response. Heavy metals are non-biodegradable and are thus persistent in the marine environment. Despite the confirmation of the presence of MT genes in mangrove plants, relatively little is known about their expression, function and mechanisms. Therefore, a bio-computational study was carried out to understand the physicochemical properties and molecular characteristics of the MT gene of mangrove plant. The theoretical isoelectric points of the proteins were below 7.0, with no signal peptides and the instability index classified the protein as unstable. MTs were mainly localized in cell nucleus (over 52%), relatively rich in random coil, and transmembrane helices were absent. High genetic diversity and strong codon bias was found. Moreover, the MT genes were found under positive selection during molecular evolution. The phylogenetic tree revealed that the genetic relationship coincided with class and type of metallothionein. These results could provide further insight in the evolution and molecular mechanism of MT gene and their biological nature.

22 ref

001311   Sachin N;Manjunatha B L;Mohana Kumara P; Ravikanth G;Shweta S;Suryanarayanan T S;Ganeshaiah K N;Uma Shaanker R (Crop Physiology Dep, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bangalore-560 065, Email: umashaanker@gmail.com) : Do endophytic fungi possess pathway genes for plant secondary metabolites?. Curr Sci 2013, 104(2), 178-82.

2 illus, 1 table, 83 ref

001310   Rather M M;Panwar M;Thakur A;Chandra A (Tissue Culture Discipline, Botany Div, FRI, Dehradun-248 006) : Conservation and restoration of Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. using vegetative propagation. Indian For 2013, 139(1), 91-2.

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

001309   Rai L K;Singh K K (NO, G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Sikkim Unit, Campus Pangthang, Post Box 24, Gangtok-737 101, Email: singhkk20@yahoo.com) : - 88 - Phoeni rupicola in the Eastern Himalaya. Curr Sci 2013, 104(5), 572-3.

^ssc1 illus, 3 ref

001308   Rahman A;Thakur B K (Botany Dep, R.D. & D.J. College, Munger-811 201, Email: fai636@sify.com) : Phenotypic variability in population structure of common vetch (Vicia sativa L.). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 335-8.

Comparative studies of the quantitative traits of Vicia sativa L., an annul leguminous plant indicated variations from different populations growing in the wheat field at different areas of Munger, Bihar. Morphological traits such as vegetative, floral and pod characters showed phenotypic plasticity. Higher values for these quantitative characteristics were recored from the field of Hirudiara area. It might be indicative of the better growth of the plant in the particular soil condition. Variability is regarded as genetic because variants occupy similar habitat.

2 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

001307   Purohit V K;Bahuguna Y M;Tiwari D;Tiwari A; Andola H C;Negi J S;Chauhan R S (High Altitude Plant Physiology Research Centre, H.N.B. Garhwal University (A Central University), Srinagar Garhwal-246 174, Email: vijaykantpurohit@rediffmail.com) : Swertia chirayita (Roxb. ex Fleming) Karsten on the verge of extinction in the Himalayan region. Curr Sci 2013, 104(2), 161-2.

1 illus, 8 ref

001306   Prasad T V R;Rao R R;Sanjay M T;Sharma R A (Directorate of Weed Science Research Centre, University of Agricultural Sciences, Hebbal, Bangalore-560 065, Email: rr_rao@vsnl.net) : Ambrosia psilostachya DC (Asteraceae) - a new record but a potential threat to Indian flora. Curr Sci 2013, 104(3), 294-6.

1 illus, 12 ref

001305   Prajapati U B;Dwivedi A K;Singh S (Botany Dep, Mahatma Gandhi Post Graduate College, Gorakhpur-273 001, Email: prajapatiuday@rediffmail.com) : *Sustainable utilization of aqautic macrophyte for waste water treatment. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 443-6.

Sustainable development - 87 - defined as "Development which meets the need of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs". Natural resources are fast depleting as a result of increasing industralisation, non-equitable distribution and growing population. On the basis of nature of pollutants, resistance and sensitivity of plant, three aquatic macrophytes such as Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms, Pistia stratiotes L., Hydrilla verticillata Casp. were selected for the aquaculture experiments. The colour of waste water change light yellowish from dark blackish by biological treatment. After treatment odour becomes light smell and temperature reduced. pH which is 8.86 before treatment but reduced 7.56, 7.46, 7.35 and 7.12 by using these macrophyte. Mixed culture of aquatic plant reduces the concentration of TS, TDS and TSS in waste water. Free CO₂ and chloride which is 28.12 mg/l and 33.20 mg/l respectively before treatment reduced after treatment 9.30 mg/1 and 12.3 mg/1 by mixed aquaculture. In initial sample DO was nil which increases to 3.4, 4.2, and 8.9 through aquaculture of Eichhornia, Pistia, Hydrilla and mixed culture respectively. COD and BOD were 370 mg/l and 185 mg/l before treatments which show tremendous reduction by the use of aquatic macrophyte. Aquatic macrophytes, having rapid growth rate absorb large quantity of nutrients would provide practical and economical methods for tertiary treatment. As an outcome of the complete remedial experiments, mix culture of the selected aquatic macrophytes for fifteen days is suggested to be the best possible solution.

6 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

001304   Prabha T R;Revathi K;Vinod M S;Shanthakumar S P;Bernard P (NO, EthCollege for Women, Egmore, Chennai-600 018, Email: prabhajammu@gmail.com) : Simple method for total genomic DNA extraction from water moulds. Curr Sci 2013, 104(3), 345-7.

Water moulds grow on submerged and floating leaves, twigs and wood in well-aerated waters. The morphological descriptions of many rare fungal species have been increasingly supplemented by their molecular characteristics. The isolation of genomic DNA is a prerequisite for their molecular characterization. The DNA isolation procedure developed here in is based on the sodium dodecyl sulphate/phenol method, without the addition of β-mercaptoethanol and proteinase K; instead it uses phenol/chloroform extraction. This protocol resulted in good quality DNA which was further validated using polymerase chain reaction amplification, cloning and sequencing and other downstream processes. The whole procedure can be done in a relatively short period of time without the need to employ β-mercaptoethanol, CTAB, lysozyme digestion, proteinase K treatment, etc., thereby reducing the overall costs involved.

2 illus, 20 ref

001303   Pawar A B;Saler R S (NO, G.M.D. Art B.W. Commerce and Science College, Sinnar, Dist. Nashik) : Effect of nutrients on cellulolytic and pectolytic enzyme production of Cercospora tectonae a leaf spot pathogen of teak (Tectona grandis L.f.). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 631-3.

Cercospora tectonae was a potential pathogen of Tectona grandis L.f. was isolated from diseased Tectona grandis L.f. leaves from Nashik and used for the present study. Pathogen was grown on the Czapeks-Dox liquid medium substituting or adding different carbon, nitrogen source to study cellulolytic and pectolytic enzyme production. The activity of enzyme was observed on the 8th day of incubation period. A great extent of growth variation was observed on different carbon, nitrogen. Among the carbon source, dextrose shows maximum cellulolytic enzyme activity, while glucose with minimum cellulolytic enzyme activity. From nitrogen source nickel nitratte shows maximum sand control with minimum cellulolytic enzyme activity was recorded. Variation was also observe in pectolytic enzyme activity. Fructose shows maximum pectolytic enzyme activity, while control with minimum pectolytic enzyme activity. From nitrogen source nickel nitrate shows maximum and potassium nitrate with minimum pectolytic enzyme activity.

4 tables, 10 ref

001302   Patil V N;Deokule S S (Botany Dep, Pune Univ, Pune-411 007, Email: vnpatil85@gmail.com) : Multiple shoot induction and genistein production in Desmodium gangeticum (L.) DC by using different concentrations of 6-benzyladenine. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 305-7.

Nodal explants were inoculated with basal cut surface down on MS medium with BA. The different concentrations of BA ranging from 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1 mg/lit were used for obtaining multiple shoots. After 40 days, maximum number of multiple shoots were obtained on medium containing 0.5mg/lit of BA which was approximately 84.28 ± 0.7 per culture. In the present study, 0.5mg/lit of BA concentration was found to be an ideal concentration for high frequency of multiple shoots induction. This is the first report of such high frequency of multiple shoot induction in D. gangeticum. Maximum genistein 6.273 - 86 - ± 0.01 μg/g D.W. content was found at 0.5 mg/lit BA. Minimum genistein content was found at 1 mg/lit BA (5.251 ± 0.02 μg/g D.W.). We found that, the difference in the content of genistein was also affected by concentration of BA i.e., increased the concentration of BA up to 0.5mg/lit and increased number of multiple shoots showed correlation with increased concentration of genistein.

1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

001301   Parveen R;Kamini Kumar (Botany University Dep, Ranchi Univ, Ranchi (Jharkhand)) : Comparative karyomorphological analysis on two varieties of Stevia rebaudiana bertoni. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 327-9.

The study provides the karyotype analysis on two varieties of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni var. SRB - 128 and var, SRB - 123. Both the varieties were found to be diploid (2n = 2x = 22 chromosomes). The karyotype was symmetric and primitive in nature.

2 illus, 3 tables, 6 ref

001300   Panwar G S;Guru S K (Botanical Survery of India, Northern Regional Centre, Dehradun-248 195, Email: panwar_giriraj@rediffmail.com) : Influence of the culture medium nitrogen concentration on alkaloid profile and reserpine content of the Rauwolfia serpentina plant roots. Indian For 2013, 139(1), 69-74.

In the present investigation, total nitrogen content of Rauwolfia serpentina plant parts collected from different localities and influence of culture medium nitrogen doses on the total alkaloid profile as well as on the reserpine production was studied. The total nitrogen content of R. serpentina plant parts, including roots (wild, cultivated and in vitro regenerated), leaves (wild and cultivated) and callus regenerated in MS and B5 medium, were estimated by Kjeldahl method. It was observed that the roots regenerated through in vitro culture in MS medium contained higher nitrogen content (7.6) as compared to the cultivated and wild roots. The alkaloid profile of the R. serpentina roots and callus, regenerated in MS and B5 medium supplemented with different nitrogen doses (half, normal and double), revealed that the alkaloid contents increased with increasing medium nitrogen concentration. An increase of 1.96 fold in reserpine content observed in MS and B5 medium supplemented with double nitrogen doses, respectively.

4 illus, 23 ref

001299   Nganthoi Devi Y;Dutta B K;Singh N I (Centre for Advanced Study in Life Sciences, Manipur University, Canchipur, Imphal-795 003, Email: irabanta.singh@gmail.com) : Biocontrol of Parthenium hysterophorus L. by using fungal culture filtrate. J mycopathol Res 2013, 51(1), 57-64.

Seed germination and growth of Parthenium hysterophorus L. is significantly effected by fungal metabolites but the subject needs to be studied in more depth. The effect of fungal culture filtrates of Penicillium granulatum, Fusarium oxysporum, Trichoderma viride, Alternana alternata and Curvularia lunata on seed germination, plant vegetative and reproductive growth were investigated in controlled environment. Among the tested fungal culture filtrates Fusarium oxysporum exhibited 63.3% germination reduction and 0.64 mgplant dry weight accumulation in 50% concentration of culture filtrate. The effect of five fungal culture filtrates on vegetative and reproductive growth of Parthenium was carried out on three different growth stages (2 weeks old, 4 weeks old and 6 weeks old plant). It was found that the culture filtrate of F. oxysporum inhibited vegetative and reproductive growth at all the three different growth stages of Parthenium as compared to control. Reduction in leaf production was 47.1% at 2 weeks old plant, 39.4% at 4 weeks old plant and 37% at 6 weeks old plant and reduction in plant height was - 85 - 61.9% at 2 weeks old plant, 54.9% at 4 weeks old plant and 46.9% at 6 weeks old plant. Reduction in flower production was 100% in plant sprayed at 2 and 4 weeks stage and 74% at 6 weeks plant respectively after 50 days of spraying. This study indicated that spraying of culture filtrate of Fusarium oxysporum at the selected growth stages of Parthenium plant can cause considerable reduction in plant growth especially in the production of leaves and flower. Flowering was severely effected by the culture filtrate of Fusarium oxysporum, hence spreading of the weed could be controlled effectively. This aspect, however, awaits further experimental proof.

5 tables, 16 ref

001298   Nawar K;Sharma O P (Botany Dep, Govt. College Bundi, (Rajasthan), Email: kapil.nawar@yahoo.com) : Medicinal plants of Banganga of Bundi (Rajasthan) and their uses. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 415-16.

The present work deals with medicinal plants of Banganga of Bundi district, South-East Rajasthan observed during December, 2010 to October 2012. Ethnomedicinal studies have been made by surey of the region during different season. This study describes 20 medicinal plant species used by tribal and folk people of the region. The plant species are used as herbal medicines for treatment of various aliment and healthcare.

11 ref

001297   Nakar R N;Jadeja B A (NO, , ) : Seed pattern, germination and viability of some tree species seeds from Girnar Reserve Forest of Gujarat. Indian J Pl Physiol 2014, 19(1), 57-64.

Study was carried out on seed - 84 - characteristics of nine different tree species of six botanical families for germination and viability during three years, 2008-2009, 2009-2010 and 2010-2011. Average germination percentages after 5, 10 and 20 days were 27.22, 55.56 and 69.44% for all nine species. Highest germination percentage was recorded in two species of bombacaceae, viz., Bombax ceiba (95%), followed by Ceiba pentandra L (30%). Rest of the species showed less than 30% germination after 5 days of incubation. After 20 days, seedling length was highest in B. ceiba, followed by Leucaena leucocphala with values of 16.20 and 16.05 cm, respectively. Average seedling vigor index (SVI) was 59.08 after 5 days, which increased regularly with values of 479.38 and 865.11 after 10 and 20 days. Highest SVI was recorded in B. ceiba, following by Sterculia urens at all the stages after 5, 10 and 20 days. Average viability was 91.22% among all species, with highest value of 94% for Albizia lebbeck. Two species, viz., C. pentandra and Delonix regia exhibited lowest viability of 80%. Root length/shoot length (RL/SL) ratio decreased with age from 9.86 at 5 days after germination to 0.75 and 0.52 at 10 and 20 days after germination, respectively. In general seeds were recalcitrant type. Knowledge on germination, pattern and viability is not only important for understanding community process but also for framing strategies for conservation of biodiversity and restoration of forests.

41 ref

001296   Muthamilarasan M;Prasad M (National Institute of Plant Genome Research, , Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, JNU Campus, New Delhi-110 067, Email: manoj_prasad@nipgr.ac.in) : Cutting-edge research on plant miRNAs. Curr Sci 2013, 104(3), 287-9.

1 illus, 12 ref

001295   Murali S;Reddy N N;Vinayaka T;Chetan T (Entomology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Bangalore-560 065, Email: dr.mmrl@rediffmail.com) : Study of insect pollinators' diversity in Cuphea hyssopifolia Kunth in GKVK, Bangalore. Envir Ecol 2013, 31(2A), 724-26.

Cuphea is a genus containing about 260 species of annual and perennial flowering plants native to warm temperate to tropical regions of the Americas. Cuphea hyssopifolia, the species adapts to a range of soils in a sunny or partially shaded situation with good drainage and this plant was highly attractive to the insects involving the purpose of pollination. Observations of the selected places of crop species were taken at three different time intervals of the day i.e., from 09:30 am, 01:30 pm and 05:30 pm by selecting block of 1 m^{2 of the C. hyssopifolia in flowering season during period 21.06.2012 to 21-07.2012. The insects visited are ceratinasp. blue and green colored, Apis florea, A. dorsata, A. ceratina, Trigona, ants, butterflies. Total number of individuals which visited was significant or higher at 01:30 pm than other times. As whole image for the insect pollinators which as observed in the current study showed that Ceratina sp. followed by Apis group has been selected to be the major pollinators and involved mainly in pollination purpose. So the activity was peak during the afternoon hours and less in morning hours, goes on decreasing towards the time passes in the day towards evening.}

3 illus, 2 ref

001294   Murali S;Dhananjaya P;Reddy G N;Vinayaka T (Entomology Dep, UAS, Bangalore-560 065, Email: dr.mmrl@rediffmail.com) : Insect pollinator's diversity in Asystasia gangetica (L.). Envir Ecol 2013, 31(2A), 804-6.

Asystasia gangetica is commonly called as creeping foxglove (Eng.), Isihobo (Zulu), comes under the family Acanthaceae and widely distributed from tropical Asia to southern Africa. This is an attractive, fast-growing, spreading, herbaceous groundcover that grows from 300 mm to 600 mm in height. The white petals of the flowers and purple blue strip on the lower petal attract the insects for pollination. Observations of the selected two places of crop species were taken at three different time intervals of the day i. e., from 9:00 am to 10:00 am, 1:00 pm to 2:00 and 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The maximum activity of insects was observed during the morning hours followed by afternoon and less number during the evening. The activity of insects were maximum in the flower is Amegilla and Ceratina sp. followed by Thyreus sp., Apis dorsata, Apis cerana, Xylocopa sp., black ants, butterflies and Anthidium sp. respectively. So the activity was more during the morning hours and goes on decreasing towards time passing in the day towards evening.

3 illus, 3 ref

001293   Mishra R;Ram R L (Botany Dep, Ranchi College, Ranchi-834 008, Email: ram_3july@ymail.com) : Endangered medicinal plants used against skin diseases by the tribals of Ranchi district. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 421-4.

Present paper deals with 37 endangered ethnomedicinal plant species belonging to 26 families along with their plant parts used, preparation and process of administration against various skin - 83 - ailments.

1 table, 14 ref

001292   Menon S;Lawrence L;Sivaram V P;Mulakal J N; Padikkala J (Amala Cancer Research Centre, , Amala Nagar P.O., Thrissur-680 555) : Attenuation of doxorubicin induced cardio-toxicity by Oroxylum indicum Vent. Amala Res Bull 2013, 33, 123-9.

The protective effect of Oroxylum indicum root bark (OIM) extract against doxorubicin induced cardiomyopathy in female Sprague Dawley rats was studied. Following a ten day long pre-treatment of the animals with aIM extract at dosages of 200 and 400 mg/kg b.w. (p.o.), cardio-toxicity was induced by intraªperitoneal injection of doxorubicin in a cumulative dose of 30 mg/kg body weight, on 4 consecutive days. Drug treatment continued up to the 14^{th day. Probucol, orally administered at a dose of 20 mg/kg b. w. was the standard used. ECG records of the extract treated animals showed normalised pattern, in comparison to that of the control where the cardiogram showed ST depression. The levels of SOD, GSH and GPx were found to be considerably elevated in the cardiac tissue homogenates of drug treated groups; MDA levels were lesser in the heart tissue, indicative of minimised lipid peroxidation. Comparative analysis of serum markers viz. CPK, LDH and SGOT among drug treated groups, standard group and extract treated groups revealed that treatment of the animals with aIM extract at 400 mg/kg b. w. dose significantly reduced the levels of the above parameters. As evident from histopathological analysis, myocardial damage imposed by doxorubicin in the untreated control animals, was not obvious in the standard or drug treated groups.}

3 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

001291   Meena K K;Shrivastava N;Jain S (Botany Microbiology Lab, P.G. Dep, Govt. College, Kota & J.D.B. Govt. College, Kota-324 005) : Evaluation of antibacterial activity of leaves of Typha angustifolia. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 385-6.

There are numerous plants which have established their reputation as antibacterial agents due to the active principles present in them. In the light of this fact present paper deals with the antibacterial activity of Typha angustifolia plant. T. angustifolia belongs to the family Typhaceae, is commonly known as elephant grass. It is mainly used in folk remedies for the treatment of tumours, as anticoagulant, astringent, sedative and tonics. In the present study, antibacterial activity of the leaf extract of T. angustifolia was evaluated. Methanol extracts of leaves of T. angustifolia were evaluated against three bacterial strains of Escherichia colt, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Methanol extract of leaves of T. angustifolia shows antibacterial activity against all bacterial strains.

1 table, 10 ref

001290   Manikandan R;Srivastava S K (Botanical Survey of India, Northern Regional Centre, Dehradun-248 195) : Habitat and life form analysis on endemism in the family - 82 - asteraceae from Karnataka state. Indian For 2013, 139(1), 49-52.

The article deals with detailed information on habit, habitat, distribution, flowering and fruiting phenology and conservation status of 39 taxa belonging to 16 genera which are endemic to India and confining their distribution in the state of Karnataka.

2 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

001289   Mal A;Sengupta D;Ghosh M;Dasgupta P;Dey P; Sudeshna;Chowdhury S;Mitra A K (Postgraduate Microbiology Dep, St. Xavier's College, Kolkata-700 016, Email: drakmitra01@rediffmail.com) : Protective algal consortium in the sporocarp of woodrotting fungus from bacterial chitinase activity. J mycopathol Res 2013, 51(1), 145-9.

The wood rotting fungi grow on the bark of any tree; usually they are pigmented because of the lignin decomposing ability of these fungi. They are degraded by the chitinase activity of different bacterial pathogens. In this investigation, fruiting bodies of Ganoderma sp. of different ages were collected from the base of a coconut trunk in Tamil Nadu off the coast of Bay of Bengal near the Golden Beach, about 25 Km from Chennai. The bacteria isolated from the surface of the fruiting body were identified on the basis of enzyme characteristics and proved to be a Gram negative coccobacillus Enterobacter sp. They were shown to be producing chitinase enzyme for degrading the fruit body. But in one such fruiting body, an algal mesh formed of Pandorina, identified on the basis of microscopic character in BG 11 medium effectively protected the basidiocarp from the enzymatic action of the bacterial chitinase. This was further proved by the growth of bacteria and algae in collateral medium showing inhibitory action of the algae on the bacteria. Thus it can be concluded that the phenomenon of hyper-parasitism on saprophytic organisms is controlled by photosynthetic algal consortium and thereby, in future, this algal consortium can be used to free the waterbody from coliform infestation.

2 tables, 5 ref

001288   Majumder S;D'Rozario A D;Bera S (Centre of Advanced Studies, Botany Dep, University of Calcutta, Kolkata-700 019, Email: berasubir@yahoo.co.in) : Occurrence of wax rodlets in the seed coat of Ginkgo biloba L. Curr Sci 2013, 104(1), 29-31.

2 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

001287   Lokhande M S;Moharekar S;Kobayashi T;Ishii H; Sumida A;Hara T (The Institute of Low Temperature Science, Hokkaido University, , Sapporo, 060-0819, Email: shubhs2000@yahoo.com) : Phenotypic plasticity and ecotypic variations in growth and flowering time of Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) under different light and temperature conditions. Indian J expl Biol 2014, 52(4), 344-51.

Four ecotypes of A. thaliana(L.) (Ct-1, Pf-0, Old-1 and Per-1) from low to high latitudes were grown under different light (300 æmol photon m^{-2s-1 and 150 μmol photon m-2s-1) and temperature (22 and 14 °C) conditions to investigate their effects on phenotypic plasticity and ecotypic variations in plant growth and first flowering time. The results suggest that in A. thaliana low temperature decreases both phenotypic plasticity and ecotypic variations in first flowering time and total dry matter at final harvest under different light intensities. Relative growth rate is the most stable parameter of A. thaliana that is hardly affected by ecotype (no effect), light (no effect) or temperature (small effect) and this may one of the reason why A. thaliana is widely distributed on earth as a result of adaptations to different environments.}

2 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

001286   Korekar G;Dwivedi S K;Singh H;Srivastava Ravi B;Stobdan T (Defence Institute of High Altitude Research, Defence Research and Deve, , Leh-Ladakh-194 101, Email: ts_mbb@yhoo.com) : Germination of Hippophae rhamnoides L. seed after 10 years of storage at ambient condition in cold arid trans-Himalayan Ladakh region. Curr Sci 2013, 104(1), 110-14.

Actinorhizal plant seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoidesL., Elaeagnaceae) is a wind-pollinated dioecious crop. In the present work we study two important aspects of germination of seabuckthorn seeds: (i) germination-related studies of aged seed stored up to 10 years under ambient condition in cold arid condition and (ii) the effect of seed pre-soaked treatment on germination-related parameters of aged seeds. Seed stored up to 6 years does not show any significant dif-ference in germination percentage. However, seeds aged 9 and 10 years showed significant reduction in germination percentage, being 65.3 and 65.67 respec-tively, compared to 100 and 99 in one- and two-year-old seeds respectively. KNO₃pre-soaking treatment showed negative effect on seed germination. Correla-tion studies showed that with advancement of age of seabuckthorn seed, the moisture content, germination percentage and seed vigour index decrease. It takes more time for seeds to germinate with ageing. Simi-larly, decrease in moisture content results in decrease in germination percentage and seed vigour index. Results showed that short-and medium-term storage of seeds could be achieved at ambient condition in cold arid region at lower cost without the limitation of space.

6 tables, 20 ref

001285   Kholia B S (Botanical Survey of India, , Sikkim Himalayan Regional Centre, Gangtok-737 103, Email: bskholia_bsi@yahoo.co.in) : Occurrence of endangered orchid Cymbidium whiteae King and Pantl. in North Sikkim. Curr Sci 2013, 104(1), 12-13.

^ssc1 illus, 11 ref

001284   Khandelwal M;Shrivastava N (Botany Dep, Govt. College, Kota-324 009, Email: khandelwal.mridula@yahoo.com) : Impact of pollutant emission of KTPS on growth performance of selected herbaceous flora of Kota district. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 469-72.

The present study was aimed to identified the herbaceous vegetation at Kota Thermal Power Station i.e., KTPS campus and to compare some eco-morphological characters of selected terrestrial perennial herbs growing in the vicinity of KTPS, Kota with non-polluted site. The selected site for the study purpose - 80 - referred as site-1 polluted area which is 1-2 km in the vicinity of KTPS, Kota ; site-2 non-polluted area (JDB College) which is 3 - 4 cm away from KTPS Kota respectively. Six most dominate herbs species were selected for comparative studies as Croton banpladianum, Chenopodium alba, Euphoriba hirta, Acyranthes aspera, Amaranthus hybridus and Tridex procombens. Different parameters were selected for the eco-morphological studies for herbs as percentage foliar damage, aggregation and association of species, fresh weight, length of plant, number of leaves, size of inflorescence, size of leaves etc. The result indicates that site-1 represents as disturbed area, because of deposition of fly ash, and pollutants directly emitted through chimneys of KTPS. Very less i.e. only 35 herbaceous plant types found near the pollution emission source, and biodiversity confined up to some common plants present in some specific patches, some plants show slight degradation of size, fresh weight, and increased foliar damage, as Croton banplandianum and Euphorbia hirta, while others showed resistance to comulative effect of fly ash deposition and other air pollutants, as Chenopodium alba, Tridex procombens, Acyranthus aspera. These results indicate that reduced quantity and biodiversity is observed at polluted site as compared to non-polluted. Because only tolerant species can survice there and the actually sensitive species disappear in that particular area due to KTPS.

3 tables, 15 ref

001283   Khandbahale D S;Saler R S;Mali M V (Botany P.G. Dep, K.T.H.M. College, Shivaji Nagar, Gangapur Road, Nashik, (M.S.), Email: dkhandbahale@gmail.com) : Effect of vehicular pollution on leaf epidermis and cuticle of some road side plants. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 615-18.

The effect of vehicular pollution on the leaf epidermis and cuticle was investigated on some common road side plants. Plants were selected for the experiment was Asperagus racemosus, Bouganvellia glabra, Azadirachta indica, Eucalyptus camalduknsis, Delonix regia and Zizipus mauritiana. Selected plants were continuously exposed to vehicular pollution at high traffic density areas and were compared with the same plants in controlled conditions. Observations and collection of plant material was done on regular intervals. Fine sections were taken by the microtome and diameter of the epidermis and cuticle was measured by micrometry method. Micro-morphological characters like cuticle, epidermis and trichomes were studied to investigate the effect of vehicular pollution, as that is first point of attack of air pollutants. Results were, epicuticuar was deposition increases in terms of cuticular thickness and epidermal cells collapsed and show decrease in their thickness. Plants from polluted sites show increase in number of trichomes but reduction in their length. Other characters such as leaf size, leaf color also show significant morphological changes. From the results we can conclude that, plants shown adaptive features to pollution stress by increasing the cuticular thickness and the reduction in the thickness of epidermal cell layer.

2 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

001282   Khan M R (Botany Dep, Poona College (Pune Univ), Pune-411 007) : Effect of pre-treatment of Sapindus lorifolius vahl. symb. seed with certain chemicals on its germination. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 657-8.

^ssc1 table, 4 ref

001281   Khan M R (Botany Dep, Poona College, (Poona Univ), Pune-411 007) : Seed dormancy in Bauhinia variegata Linn. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 489-90.

Physical limitations to moisture diffusion caused by hard and - 79 - thick seed coats are responsible for seed dormancy. The impermeability of seed coat to water most wide spread in leguminosae (Mayer and Marber, 1982). Presence of palisade layer in Seed Coat of certain legumes is assured to be casually connected with their higher degree of impermeability (Esau. 1979). During the laboratory germination testing of freshly harvested seed of Bauhinia variegata Linn. at times seeds fail to germinate this failure probably related to the state of seed dormancy. The exogeous application of harmones such as gibberellic acid (GA₃) with and treatment with thiourea 0.25, 0.50 and 0-.75% and KNO₃ 0.25, 0.50 and 0-.75% as well as hot water 24h and 48 hours has been reported to break the seed dormancy. However, the information are scanty regarding breaking of dormancy in Bauhinia variegata Linn. In the present investigation an attempt has been made to find out a suitable method of breaking the dormancy in the plant.

1 table, 8 ref

001280   Katoch R (Biochemistry Laboratory, Crop Improvement Dep, Palampur-176062, Email: rajankatoch@yahoo.com) : Nutritional evaluation, protein digestibility and profiling of different vigna species. Indian J agric Biochem 2013, 26(1), 32-5.

Present study was carried out to evaluate the biochemical composition, protein digestibility and protein profile of five important legumes of genus Vigna viz., V. umbellata (rice bean), V. unguiculata (cowpea), V. radiata (mung bean), V. mungo (urad bean) and V. angularis (adzuki bean). The protein and crude fibre content varied from 21.58 to 23.78 per cent and 3.5 to 4.6 per cent, respectively. The carbohydrate, ascorbic acid and ether extract ranged between 41.34 and 55.16 per cent, 0.062 and 0.093 per cent and 0.7 and 0.9 per cent, respectively. Total phenolics varied from 1.31 to 2.38 per cent, whereas simple phenols varied from 0.16 to 0.78 per cent. Total tannins, condensed tannins and hydrolysable tannins were in the range of 1.15 and 1.96 per cent, 0.68 and 0.98 per cent and 0.21 and 1.23 per cent, respectively. In vitro protein digestibility of different Vigna species varied from 70.53 to 73.78 per cent. The protein profile revealed different banding patterns, indicating variation in protein constitution of different Vigna species. Sequential extraction of protein fractions viz., albumins, globulins, prolamins and glutelins also showed variations among species. The results of the study indicated that nutritional composition and protein composition varied among Vigna species with V. radiata having high protein value as well as high protein digestibility whereas V. umbellata showing balance among nutritional and anti-nutritional traits.

2 tables, 27 ref

001279   Kanade A M;Bhosale R S (NO, Arts Commerce & Science College, Narayangaon Tal.-Junnar, Distt. Pune-410 504, Email: drashokkanade@gmail.com) : *Influence of VAM (Glomus fasciculatum) and Rhizobiu on vegetative and reproductive parameters of Dolichos lab-lab, Linn.. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 561-6.

Results of investigations conducted on Dolichos lablab Linn. A leguminous species to study the effect of VAM inoculation and Rhizobium on the vegetative and reproductive parameters have been described. The plants were grown in non-sterilized and sterilized soil to obtain results of inoculated VAM of Glomus fasciculatum (Tha.). Geard and Trap and Rhizobium along with native VAMs. Marked increase in vegetative as well as reproductive parameters in VAM inoculated plants supplied with recommended phosphate and Rhizobium in both sterilized and non-sterilized soil was observed. There was two to ten fold increase in plant height, no. of leaves, total leaf area per plant, total number of flowers, total dry biomass and number of fruits per plant in VAM inoculated plants supplied with recommended phosphate and Rhizobium in comparison with control set.

2 illus, 1 table, 41 ref

001278   Kanade A M (NO, Arts Commerce & Science College, Narayangaon, Junnar, Pune-410 504, Email: drashokkanade@gmail.com ) : "Influence of VAM (Glomus fasciculatum) of vegetative growth of Spinacae oleracea linn and Trigonella foenum Linn".. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 567-9.

Result of investigation conducted on Spinacae oleracea Linn. and Trigonella foenum Linn. to study the effect of VAM inoculation on vegetative parameters have been described. The plants were grown in non-sterilized and sterilized soil to obtain results of inoculated VAM, Glomus fasciculatum (Tha) Geared and Trap. Along with native VAMs, marked increase in vegetative parameters in VAM inoculated plants supplied with recommended phosphates in both sterilized and - 78 - non-sterilized soils were observed. There was three fold increase in total leaf area, total dry Biomass per plant in VAM inoculated plants supplied with recommended phosphates in comparison with controlled sets in both vegetable crops.

2 tables, 12 ref