017213   Refaat J;Desoky S Y;Ramadan M A;Kamel M S (Pharmacognosy Dep, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia Univ, 61519 Minia, Egypt, Email: Johnrefaat82@yahoo.com) : Bombacaceae between the ethnomedical uses and pharmacological evidences. Int J Pharmac 2014, 1(1), 23-8.

Bombacaceae is a small family of flowering plants containing about 28 genera and 200 species. Plants of this family are well known ornamentals, foods, and folkloric remedies with significant economic and commercial reputation worldwide. Thanks to the growing demand for natural Pharmaceuticals, Bombacaceae plants were subjected to several biological investigations due to their richness in bioactive phytoconstituents. Different extracts of these plants, in addition to their isolated compounds, exhibited wide range of biological activities with very low toxicity profiles. Besides, a large number of Bombacaceous species, extracts as well as the purified compounds are also still calling for further pharmacological screening. Therefore, this work highlights the ethnomedical uses of different Bombacaceae species in light of the results of their pharmacological and toxicological studies.

^iia1 illus, 3 tables, 98 ref

017212   Rao K S;Sringeswara A N;Deepak Kumar;Pulla S; Sukumar R (NO, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: bharadwaj@ces.iisc.ernet.in) : Digital herbarium for the flora of Karnataka. Curr Sci 2012, 102(9), 1268-71.

A herbarium-based database (virtual herbarium) is a referral system for plants that maximizes the usefulness of the collections. The information content of such a database is essentially built on the voucher specimens that the herbarium has in its care. The present article reports on the construction of a 'virtual herbarium' for the state-wide collection of flowering plants in the Herbarium JCB housed at the Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, that is expected to be launched soon. The taxonomic data on each species include all information presented on the herbarium specimen label, namely species name, author citation, sub-species if any, variety if any, family, subfamily, collection number, locations, date of collection, habitat and the collecttor's name. The data further comprise 'flora' in which the species are described. Additional information includes the nomenclature update according to 'The Plant List', a detailed description, phenology, species distribution, threat status and comments on any special features of the taxon. The live images of the species provided in the database form an information synergy on the species. This initiative is the first of its kind for herbaria in peninsular India.

2 illus, 22 ref

017211   Pathania S;Kumar P;Singh S;Khatoon S;Rawat A K S;Punetha N;Jensen D J;Lauren D R;Somvanshi R (Pathology Div, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly-243 122, Email: dr.rsomvanshi@gmail.com) : Detection of ptaquiloside and quercetin in certain Indian ferns. Curr Sci 2012, 102(12), 1683-91.

Enzootic bovine haematuria (EBH), which is known to be caused by the interaction of bracken fern toxin (ptaquiloside) and bovine papillomavirus-2 (BPV-2) is a chronic incurable neoplastic ailment of urinary bladder in cattle in certain regions of the world. The study was aimed to quantify the carcinogen, ptaquiloside (Pta) and flavonoid, quercetin in various ferns growing in certain EBH enzootic areas of two mountainous states of northern India, Himachal Pradesh (HP) and Uttarakhand, where this ailment is a major problem in hill cattle. Of the 25 studied samples of 16 species of ferns, 9 samples collected from both the states were found to contain Pta on HPLC and LCMS analyses. The concentration of Pta present in the fern samples ranged from 0.00 to 1182.84 μg/g on a dry-matter basis. Further, seven samples revealed the potential to contain Pta. Dryopteris cochleata, Hypodematium crenatum, Pseudocyclosorus canus and Pteris cretica were identified to contain Pta for the first time. Quercetin was also analysed by TLC in 32 fern samples and was detected in 17 samples with its concentration ranging from 0.0% to 0.030%. Samples from HP were found to contain a variable range of quercetin in Christella arida, Deparia japonica, Dryopteris cochleata, Dryopteris juxtaposita, H. crenatum, Polystichum squrrosum and Pteridium revolutum. Similarly, Polystichum squarrosum and Pteris cretica from Uttarakhand contained higher concentration of quercetin. The study also revealed that ferns like D. cochleata, H. crenatum, Onychium tenuifrons, Pseudocyclosorus canus, Pteridium revolutum and Pteris cretica contained both Pta and quercetin. The environmental toxin and flavonoid present in these nonbracken fern species are suspected in the causation of EBH along with BPV-2.

5 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

017210   Pande P K;Aziz M;Uniyal S;Dhiman R C (Wood Anatomy Discipline, Botany Div, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun-248 006, Email: pandep123@rediffmail.com) : Variation in wood anatomical properties and specific gravity in relation to sexual dimorphism in Populus deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh. Curr Sci 2012, 102(11), 1580-5.

This study deals with intra- and inter-ramet, and inter-clonal variation in dimensions of wood elements and specific gravity of 6-year-old Populus deltoides based on sexual dimorphism of a female clone (G48) and male clone (G3). The origin of both the clones is USA. The trial used uniform spacing (5 m x 5 m). Variance ratio (F) test revealed that both clones differ significantly in fibre length and diameter, wall thickness, vessel element length and diameter, and specific gravity. The G48 clone showed higher fibre and vessel element dimensions but lower specific gravity than G3 clone, suggesting better fibre dimensions for G48 and specific gravity for G3. It showed female dominance on wood anatomical properties. Fibre length and specific gravity increased with height. Dimensions of wood element and specific gravity also increased from pith to periphery. Non-significant intra-ramet variations for both the clones indicated that homogeneous wood properties could be achieved from the single bole. Intra-clonal variations in G48 revealed nonsignificant differences, suggesting stable wood properties in the clone.

4 tables, 33 ref

017209   Padhy S (NO, , "Anandamaya", Bhabha Nagar, 1st Lane, Berhampur-760 004, Odisha, Email: sachi_padhy@rediffmail.com) : Ethno-ecological introspection into Bhagawatgeetaa: 3. conservation and ramification of biodiversity. J hum Ecol 2014, 45(1), 41-8.

According to the Geetaa: perception and realization of one imperishable divine existence as undivided and equally present in all individual beings is the only means for the conservation of the biodiversity. The description of the Divine personality as: "He has endowed with numerous arms, hands, thighs and feet on all sides; many bellies and heads in all directions with innumerable mouths, teeth, eyes and ears all round, extended in countless forms pervading everywhere" stands as the most appropriate representation of the global biosphere as a single unit as per the modern ecological science.

16 ref

017208   Mishra N;Anil Prakash (Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Centre Dep, Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Email: mishra.nagendra@gmail.com) : Ethnoveterinary medicine of Betul district, Madhya Pradesh. Int J agric biol Res 2013, 29(1), 78-82.

1 table, 6 ref

017207   Mathipa E R;Margaret K N;Maile S (NO, Unisa College of Education, Box 392, Unisa, 0003, Pretoria, South Africa, Email: mailes@tut.ac.za) : Factors contributing to the rising HIV/AIDS infection rate among Soshanguve school girls in the FET band. J hum Ecol 2014, 45(1), 49-59.

Findings of this research study reveal that Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections are on the increase among young girls of the age cohort 15-24 who are found at secondary school level. I It is also clear from this study that increasing number of young female learners attending secondary schools are living with HIV because they were either born with it or were infected by unscrupulous older men called sugar daddies who for various reasons target young girls. Clearly too, young girls in particular are at a higher risk of infections as compared to boys because girls are susceptible to infections due to a combination of factors that encourage them to be sexually active at an early age when they are still vulnerable to resist manipulation by older men. Importantly, this research study has also pointed out to the magnitude of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Disease Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) epidemic. This calls for more studies than ever before in order to fully understand how the desease spreads and how it can be arrested. To contribute to a better understanding of this problem the present investigation used the purposive sampling method to select 18 grade 12 learners from Further Education and Training (FET) schools which are commonly known as secondary schools. Schools falling under the Further Education and Training Band are actually constituting what is referred to as secondary education. The qualitative paradigm based on the interpretivist and constructivist approach was used to collect data through research instruments such as interviews, observations, note-taking and tape-recordings. The findings reveal that young girls are at a higher risk of being infected with the HIV virus precisely because older men who are infected by HIV/AIDS belief that sleeping with young virgin cures AIDS. Finally, practical ways to mitigate the rising infections among school girls are suggested based on the findings of this research and also on a plethora of literary sources.

86 ref

017206   Manorma Kumari;Pandey V (Botany Dep, A.N. College, Patna, Bihar) : Traditional use of plants as medicine for treatment of joint pain in rural area of Jamui (Bihar). Flora Fauna 2013, 19(1), 32-4.

Reports the therapeutic use of medicinal plants for treatment of joint pain by rural people of Jamui district, Bihar. Total 15 plants belonging to 11 families were identified which were being used by people of the study area. The information about the plants for treatment of joint pain was gathered from rural people, local vaidyas, hakims efc.

1 table, 8 ref

017205   Khan T A;Chaudhari G S (Botany Dep, Iqras, H.J. Thim College of Arts and Science, Mehrun, Jalgaon-425 001) : Novelties of poaceae in Khandesh (Maharashtra), India. Flora Fauna 2013, 19(1), 41-6.

Six species of Poaceae are new records for Khandesh region (Maharashtra). Detailed descriptions are provided to facilitate easy identification.

6 illus, 9 ref

017204   Kaushal V K (Botany Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Datia, Madhya Pradesh) : Growth and sporulation of Fusarium oxysporum F sp Zingiberi from Bundelkhand region in different liquid media. Flora Fauna 2013, 19(1), 52-4.

In this study, a replicated experiment with 10 liquid media was set up. The liquid media were Richards broth medium, Glycine max broth, corn meal modified broth, Czapek's (Dox) broth, Ginger extract broth, Potato dextrose broth, Malt extract broth, Martins's broth, Sabourad's dextrose broth and Asthana & Hawker's broth. Maximum growth and sporulation were recorded in Richard's broth, whereas minimum growth and sporulation were recorded in Asthana and Hawker's broth and Sabourad's Dextrose broth.

1 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

017203   Jurry R;Gupta S;Mishra P (Zoology Dep, Govt. N.P.G. College of Science, Raipur-492 001) : Phytochemical screening of Cynodon dactylon. Asian J chem envir Res 2013, 6(1-2), 17-21.

The plants are very important for living beings. We cannot imagine life without the plants. They not only produce food for us but also create healthy environment and eco-friendly atmosphere to live. Also, plants have provided a source of chemicals that are used for the treatment of various diseases since the time immortal. Phytomedicine can be used in the case of Unani and Ayurvedic system of medicines or it can be the base for the development of the medicine. The study deals with the qualitative phytochemical analysis of Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. (Family-Poaceae), commonly known as doob. It is one of the important medicinal weed plants of Chhattisgarh state (India). The result of The study showed that the alkaloids, anthroquinone, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, terpenoids and tannins were the main constituents of the aqueous and alcoholic extract of whole plant of Cynodon dactylon.

1 table, 32 ref

017202   Jurry R;Gupta S;Mishra (Zoology Dep, Government N.P.G. College of Science, Raiur-492 010, Email: pmishra26463@gmail.com) : Preliminary phytochemical screening of Achyranthes aspera L.. Asian J chem envir Res 2013, 6(1-2), 105-110.

Some of the phyto-chemicals present in plants pose enormous medicinal properties that are useful for animal body. One of the most important medicinal weed plants is Achyranthes aspera L. being used in Ayurveda to treat the number of health problems. A study was made using this plant to evaluate the major chemical constituents of aqueous and alcoholic extract of root, stem, leaf and seeds. Results revealed that carbohydrates, tannins, alkaloids and saponins were present in both the extracts of all the plant parts under study except aqueous root extract indicated negative for alkaloids. Only aqueous extract of stem showed the presence of phenol. Cardio glycosides were present in both the extracts of seed and alcoholic extract of root and stem. Aqueous extract of seed and alcoholic extract of root and leaf did not show the presence of terpenoids while flavonoids were noticed in both the extracts of different plant parts except aqueous extract of seed and alcoholic extract of leaf. Quinones were found in alcoholic extract of all parts of plant and aqueous extract of stem.

2 tables, 32 ref

017201   Jose S;Suresh V;Prakashkumar R;Madhusoodanan P V (Botany Dep, Government Victoria College, Palakkad, Kerala) : Oxystelma esculentum R.Br. (Asclepiadaceae)- a little known medicinal plant of wetlands of Kerala, India. Flora Fauna 2013, 19(1), 29-31.

Oxystelma esculentum R. Br. (Rosy Milk Weed) which was considered to be unavailable in Kerala for the last ninety years is reported from the wet banks of Kalpathy river in Palakkad district of Kerala. This medicinal plant is a perennial thin twiner with milky latex, bearing graceful flowers and linear acuminate follicles having anti- cancer and anti-ulcer properties. The plant is rediscovered and described with its distributional status and ecology.

1 illus, 18 ref

017200   Halder S;Venu P (Botanical Survey of India, Central National Herbarium, Howrah-711 103, Email: pvenu.bsi@gmail.com) : Taxonomy and report of flowering in Lemna L. (Lemnaceae) in India. Curr Sci 2012, 102(12), 1629-32.

2 illus, 13 ref

017199   Habib I;Barkha (NO, Govt. Degree College, Avas Vikas, Near LIC Office, Etah-243 601, Email: iqbalhabib786@gmail.com) : Systematic account of chlorococcales from Etah. Int J agric biol Res 2013, 29(1), 83-91.

Deals with morphotaxonomic enumeration of 30 taxa of Chlorococcalean algae collected from different localities situated in and around Etah District of Uttar Pradesh State during 2009-2010. Notes on forms showing slightly variations in their morphological attributes have also been given. All these taxa are being recorded for the first time.

25 ref

017198   Habib I (Botany Dep, Government Degree College, Budaun-243 601, Email: iqbalhabib786786@gmail.com) : Chlorococcales from Aligarh district Uttar Pradesh state, India. Int J agric biol Res 2013, 29(1), 70-7.

Deals with orphotaxonomic enumeration of 30 taxa of Chlorococcalean algae collected from different localities situated in and around Aligarh District of Uttar Pradesh during 2009-2010. Notes on forms showing slightly variations in their morphological attributes have also been given. All these taxa are being recorded for the first time from this part of state.

31 ref

017197   Gopale K D;Zunjarrao R S (Post Graduate Research Center, Botany Dep, Modern College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Shivajinagar, Pune-411 005, Email: santoshgopale10@gmail.com) : Evaluation of genetic diversity of Jatropha curcas L using RAPD marker in Maharashtra. Int J pure appl Sci Technol 2013, 14(2), 12-24.

Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers were used to evaluate the genetic diversity in representative population of Jatropha curcas L. from four agro-climatic regions of Maharashtra. Each region was uniformly represented by 5 accessions. Ten selected markers have been used for amplification. A total of 125 DNA bands were obtained, of which 94 (74.62%) were polymorphic. The polymorphism was scored and used in band sharing analysis to identify genetic relationship. Cluster analysis based on Jaccard's similarity coefficient using UPGMA grouped all the 20 genotype in to two major groups at similarity coefficient of 0.54. Similarity indices from the 20 genotypes selected ranged from 0.14 to 0.98 with average of 0.63, indicating moderate to high genetic variability among the genotypes. The highest similarity coefficient was detected from Kokan region accessions and lowest to moderate from W. Maharashtra, Marathwada and Vidarbha. Also, the Jatropha populations from diverse agro-climatic regions were more dispersed on the principle co-ordinate plot, revealing a wide genetic base. The results of molecular diversity study revealed that J. curcas germplasm within Maharashtra constitutes a broad genetic base. From the clustering pattern and genetic relationship obtained from different clusters can be employed in their future breeding programmes. However, selection based on molecular marker is likely to be more effective as it is more closely linked to the genetic constitution of a genotype. The reported variations molecular diversity show extremely low to high range, some of the variations may explain differences in factors such as a. Difference in agro-climatic factors such as soil, rainfall pattern, altitude and latitude, humidity etc. It may be due to high level of cross-pollination nature of this species and interaction of materials from different genetic sources.

2 illus, 3 tables, 39 ref

017196   Ghorband D P;Biradar S D (Botany Dep, Dnyanopasak College, Parbhani-431 401, Email: dntaneshwarghorband@gmail.com) : Some folk medicinal observation of the tribes of Kinwat forest of Nanded district, Maharashtra, India. Flora Fauna 2013, 19(1), 23-8.

An ethnobotanical survey was undertaken to collect information from traditional healers on the use of medicinal plants in Kinwat range forest of Nanded district, Maharashtra. The indigenous knowledge of traditional healers about plants used for medicinal purposes was collected through personal interviews during field trips. The investigation revealed that, the Gond, Kolam, Andh, Pradhan and Naikede tribes of the study area were found to use 28 species of plants distributed in 28 genera belonging to 23 families to treat various diseases. The documented medicinal plants were mostly used to cure pneumonia, diabetes, typhoid, angina pectoris, rheumatism, asthma, chest pain etc. The study revealed that many people in the studied parts of Kinwat tahsil still continued to depend on medicinal plants at least for the treatment of primary healthcare. The traditional healers were dwindling in number and there was a grave danger of traditional knowledge disappearing soon since the younger generation was not interested to carry on this tradition.

2 illus, 14 ref

017195   Deore C R (Botany Dep, J.E.S.s. Arts, Science & Commerce College, Nandurbar-425 412) : Ethnobotanical studies on the certain unconventional food plant used by the tribals of Nandurbar district for sustainable food security. Asian J chem envir Res 2013, 6(1-2), 32-4.

Deals with the results of a preliminary survey of the wild edible plants used by different ethnic groups in the Dhadgaon of the Nandurbar district. Tribals of various ethnic groups dominate of this hilly region. About20 plants species used as edible by the tribes, of these, the leaves of 11 plant species are consumed as green and about 03 wild fruits are consumed raw. The rest of the plant species are used for their tubers, seeds and roots. The plant species, their families, vernacular names, parts used and their mode of usage were also reported. Wild edible plants play a major role in meeting the nutritional requirement of the tribal population in remote parts of the country in general and Bastar of Chhattisgarh in specifically. Wild edible plants not only provide food quantity but also make significant contribution to the population nutrition throughout the year. The use of wild plants as food has been formed an integral part of the culture and tradition of many indigenous communities of the world. It constitutes an essential component in the diet and food security of many tribal communities particularly people living around the forest fringe.

1 table, 4 ref

017194   Darlong L;Bhattacharyya D (Plant Taxonomy and Biosystematics Laboratory, Life Science and Bioinfo, Assam Univ, Silchar-788 011, Email: debjyoti_bsi@yahoo.co.in) : Some lianas in Tripura, India, demand urgent conservation efforts. Curr Sci 2012, 102(9), 1246.

1 illus, 2 ref

017193   Dangwal L R;Singh A;Singh A (Herbarium and Plant Systematic Laboratory, Botany Dep, H.N.B. Garhwal Univ, (A Central Univ), S.R.T. Campus, Badshahi Thaul, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, Email: drlrdangwal@gmail.com) : Conservation and cultivation possibilities of Dioscorea deltoidea (A threatened species) in village Budogi, district Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India. J Pl Dev Sci 2014, 6(1), 7-12.

The district Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand have a rich and diverse form of vegetation with medicinal as well as aromatic plants. Varying soil, geology and occurrence of different climatic and microclimatic zones of the region provide suitable conditions to grow a different diversity of medicinal and aromatic plants. But some medicinal plants are becoming threatened due to unsustainable use and overexploitation, out of these medicinal plants a very important threatened medicinal plant is Dioscorea deltoidea in the region. The study deals with conservation and cultivation possibilities of Dioscorea deltoidea from an altitudinal range 1300m to 2000m, domesticated in the village Budogi, district Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India. The preliminary data showed that in the region D. deltiodea plant properly grow and can provide baseline information of selection of suitable cultivation sites, conservation and developing agro-techniques for this species.

2 tables, 21 ref

017192   Bhattacharya A;Mukherjee A (Botany Dep, Burdwan Univ, Bardhaman, West Bengal, Email: dnarma@rediffmail.com) : Botanical documentation of Garh jungle, Durgapur, West Bengal. Flora Fauna 2013, 19(1), 9-22.

Garh jungle, near Durgapur city in West Bengal is a tropical dry deciduous lateritic sal-forest with 214 vascular plant species. All specific, generic and family levels, dicots score high percentage over monocots. Coefficient of generic diversity indicated of habitat heterogeneity. The ratio of tree, shrub, herb and vine indicated the richness of the site in arborescent diversity with dense but discontinuous canopy. Biological spectrum indiacted phanero-chamaephytic phytoclimate under moist, warm, humid tropics. But different microhabitats within and regeneration-status of the community were under stress. Regarding the spectrum, Bardhaman and North 24-Parganas were the closest to Garh while arid sites and deserts were the farthest. The study showed that at least some ecotopes within the forest preserved the original tropical dry deciduous flora which still played key role as excellent natural gene bank to nurture high level of biodiversity; so the site deserved to be included in Protected Areas Network in form of a Sanctuary or National Park.

2 illus, 4 tables, 32 ref

017191   Bansal R;Jain D K (Botany Dep, Meerut College, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh) : Toxicity effect of culture filtrates of some fungi on seed germinationo and seedling growth of Sorghum vulgare pers. J Pl Dev Sci 2014, 6(1), 95-9.

Culture filtrate of all the tested fungi, e.g. Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus flavus, A. niger. Chaetomium brasilense, Cladosporium herbarum, Colletotrichum dematium, Curvularia lunata, Fusarium oxysporum, Macrophomina phaseoli, Myrothecium roridum and Trichoderma viride adversely affected the seed germination and seedling growth. Boiled culture filtrate of M. roridum produced maximum inhibition in seed germination. Both root and shoot were reduced maximum by Myrothecium roridum followed by Fusarium oxysporum, Trichoderma viride and Curvularia lunata. Boiled filtrates were more effective than the unboiled ones. In general, roots were more susceptible to toxins.

1 table, 36 ref

017190   Arshiya M;Suryawanshi A;More D;Baig M M V (Botany and Microbiology Dep, LBS College, Dharmabad, Maharashtra, Email: mmvbaig@gmail.com) : Repetitive PCR based detection of genetic diversity in Xanthomonas axonopodis pv citri strains. J appl Biol Biotechnol 2014, 2(1), 17-22.

Xanthomonas axonopodis pv citri (Xac) is the phytopathogen responsible for citrus canker, one of the most devastating citrus diseases in the world. Fifty six strains of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv citri (Xac) were isolated from different citrus growing areas of Marathwada region of Maharashtra state and twenty representative strains of Xac were selected to study the genetic diversity. Morphological, biochemical and pathogenicity tests were carried out to identify and characterize the strains of bacteria causing citrus canker. Repetitive DNA polymerase chain reaction-based fingerprinting (rep-PCR) using repetitive extragenic palindromic (rep) and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC) and BOX primers were used to assess the genetic diversity. Cluster analysis done by combining the banding patterns of REP-PCR, ERIC-PCR and BOX-PCR clearly separated two diverse groups within species of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv citri based on the geographic region of isolation.

5 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

017189   Abiala M A;Popoola O O;Olawuyi O J;Oyelude J O;Akanmu A O;Killani A S;Osonubi O;Odebode A C (Botany Dep, Ibadan Univ, PMB 128, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria) : Harnessing the potentials of vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi to plant growth. Int J pure appl Sci Technol 2013, 14(2), 61-79.

Mycorrhizae are symbiotic associations, formed between plants and soil fungi that play an essential role in sustainable crop production and soil fertility. Interest in Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (VAM) fungi inocula propagation for agriculture is increasing due to their role in promotion of plant health, soil fertility, and soil aggregates stability in the developing economies. This review discusses the impact of VAM to plant growth, factors contributing to VAM utilization and associations to plant growth. The management and strategic applications of VAM to enhance growth of food crops most especially in Africa with an understanding of exploiting VAM benefits towards sustainable agricultural development is very important.

^iia147 ref

016178   Yang-Lei Y;Yu-Jun K;Lei Xia;Wang G X (NO, College of Science, Northwest A & E University, Yangling, 712100, China, Email: wanggaoxue@yahoo) : Growth inhibition and oxidative stress of cyanobacteria induced by sanguinarine and 6-methoxydihydrochelerythrine isolated from Macleaya microcarpa. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 211-24.

To investigate the algicidal allelochemicals from Macleaya microcarpa we used the activity-guided isolation. Five solvents (petroleum ether, chloroform, acetone, ethanol and water) were employed for the extraction of M. microcarpa. Among them,only the ethanol extract was active (7d-EC50 = 95.52 mg L^-1) and hence, was subjected to further isolation and purification using various chromatographic techniques. Two benzophenanthridine alkaloids with potent algicidal activity, sanguinarine and 6-methoxy-dihydrochelerythrine were isolated. The algicidal effects of these compounds were species-specific, both sanguinarine and 6-methoxy-dihydrochelerythrine were active against Microcystis aeruginosa with 3 d-EC50 values of 0.47 and 3.43 mg L^-1, and the 7 d-EC50 values of 0.36 and 2.87 mg L^-1, respectively. However, sanguinarine showed low inhibition on Chlorella pyrenoidosa and Scenedesmus obliquus with 3 d-EC50 values of 5.32 and 9.70 mg L^-1, respectively. 6-Methoxy-dihydrochelerythrine had little effect on C. pyrenoidosa and S. obliquus. The active compounds could cause oxidative damage in M. aeruginosa based on the observed malondialdehyde (MDA) content decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC). These results indicated that M. microcarpa extract and the isolatedallelochemicals may serve as new agents for controlling the growth of toxic M.aeruginosa in eutrophic water bodies.

5 illus, 1 table, 42 ref

016177   Won O J;Uddin M R;Park K W;Pyon J Y;Park S U (Crop Science Dep, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences Chungnam National University, 99 Daehangno, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 305-764, Korea, Email: supark@cnu.ac.kr) : Phenolic compounds in sorghum leaf extracts and their effects on weed control. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 147-56.

The allelopathic potential of shoot extract of Sorghum bicolor(L.) Moench, was evaluated for sustainable weed management in organic farming. Its 2 to 15-days-old seedlings contained more total phenolic compounds than older plants. The ethyl acetate partitioned phenolic compounds from methanol extracts of sorghum leaf were better than other organic solvents test. Among the6- physical methods of extraction used, the extract from grinding plus boiling provided good weed control, however, methanol extract of sorghum leaf proved the best. The sorghum leaf extracts may provide effective and environmentally sustainable weed control.

2 illus, 5 tables, 41 ref

016176   Wang Y;Wang Z;Wang F;Yang G;Wang L;Shengal Z; Xiaohua S (NO, Institute of Economic Botany, Jilin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Gongzhuling, 136105, China, Email: wzw6655@yahoo.cn ) : Alleopathic effects of corn and soybean root leachates on tuber sprouting and plantlet growth of potato. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 117-28.

Studied the allelopathic effects of corn and soybean root leachates on tuber germination and plantlet growth of potato. Root leachates were collected from seedlings in a specialized collection device and tested at three concentrations (100%, 50%, and 25%). The results showed that root leachates from corn and soybean promoted the potato tuber sprouting and plantlet growth, but effects differed with concentration. In corn leachates, 100% solution significantly enhanced the tuber sprouting and sprouting potential. While the soybean root leachates at 25 and 100 % concentrations significantly enhanced the sprouting. Both corn and soybean root leachates significantly increased the bud dry weight and bud length, with the greatest increase at highest concentration. Both types of root leachates also significantly increased the potato plantlet growth. The corn leachates had a greater stimulatory effect than the soybean leachates, but concentration had no significant effect. Both corn and soybean leachates significantly increased the amylase vigour in tubers 5-days after plantlet emergence, with the highest concentrations of each having the greatest effect. Higher concentrations of corn and soybean root leachates proved beneficial to potato tuber sprouting and plantlet growth. These experiments used tissue culture to isolate the allelopathic effects and increase accuracy.

2 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

016175   Wang J;Zhu J Y;Gao Y N;Liu B Y;Liu S P;He F; Wu Z B (State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China, Email: wuzb@ihb.ac.cn) : Toxicity of allelochemicals released by submerged macrophytes on phytoplankton. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 199-210.

The allelopathic mechanism of submerged macrophyteswas investigated on the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa and the green alga Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata. The effect of the allelochemicals pyrogallic acid(PA), gallic acid (GA), (+)-catechin (CA), caffeic acid (CFA), protocatechuic acid (PCA), nonanoic acid (NA) and cis-9-octadecenoic acid (COA) was evaluated by flow cytometry on esterase activity, membrane integrity, chlorophyll afluorescence, cell volume and internal cell complexity. The highest sensitivity was observed for esterase activity in both test species. NA damaged the cell membrane and severely altered the internal cell complexity of both species. PA changed the esteraseactivity of both species and significantly decreased the fluorescence of chlorophyll a in M. aeruginosacells (P<60> 0.05). Both GA and PCA inhibited the fluorescence of chlorophyll aand caused morphological changes in M. aeruginosa(P<60> 0.05). CFA inhibited the esterase activity, fluorescence of chlorophyll aand cell volume inM. aeruginosaat 50 and 100 mg L^-1 concentrations; In P. subcapitata, the fluorescence of chlorophyll aand cell volume was inhibited at 50 mg L^-1 but was stimulated at 100 mg L^-1. COA changed the esterase activity. CA at 100 mg L^-1 slightly inhibited the fluorescence of chlorophyll a in M. aeruginosaand stimulated the esterase activity in P. subcapitata. The responses observed for each parameter investigated were highly dependent on the specific inhibitory mechanism of each allelochemical. These allelochemicals act on multiple target sites.

5 illus, 36 ref

016174   Vishnu Kumar K S;Palaksha M N;Venkatesh K; Sandip Kumar Y;Nayak R R (Pharmacology Dep, Sri Sai Aditya Institute of Pharamaceutical Science & Research, Surampalem, E.G. Dist-533 437, Email: vishnukora@gmail.com) : Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of methanolic extract of Origanum majorana in CCL₄- induced liver injury in rats. Int J Pharmac 2014, 1(2), 144-52.

Present study was aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity of methanolic extract of Origanum majorana aerial parts against CCL₄ induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Wistar rats (150-200 gm) were divided into five groups each group containing six rats. Group A treated as normal control receives 1% v/v tween-80, p.o for 14 days. Group B received 0.1 ml/kg of CCL₄ i.p for 10 days which is treated as experimental control. Group C receives 100 mg/kg of silymarin for 14 days which is treated as standard. Group D and E treated as tests t₁ and t₂ which receives methanolic extract of Origanum majorana aerial parts of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg for 14 days respectively. Group C, D and E were intoxicated with CCL₄ (0.1ml/kg i.p) for 10 days 1hr before administration of silymarin and extract. Antioxidant effect of methanolic extract of Origanum majorana was also evaluated by in-vitro antioxidant parameters like Hydroxyl and Superoxide radicals scavenging activities. The hepatoprotective effect was evaluated by the assessment of biochemical parameters such as SGPT, SGOT, ALP, bilirubin and serum total protein levels and histopathological studies of liver. Results were analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's multiple comparison tests. Treatment of animals with methanolic extract of Origanum majorana in doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg significantly altered the CCL₄ induced changes in the serum and tissue enzyme levels to near normal values. It also improved the liver histopathology profile. And also the extract is having hydroxyl and superoxide radical scavenging activities and there IC₅₀ values were found to be 133.33μg/ml and 245.09μg/ml. The results of the study indicate that the methanolic extract of Origanum majorana aerial parts possesses hepatoprotective activity against CCL₄ induced hepatotoxicity in rats due to the extract is having antioxidant activity.

10 illus, 5 tables, 22 ref

016173   Vidyasagar G M;Siddalinga Murthy S M (Botany Dep, Gulbarga University, Gulbarga-585 106, Email: gmvidyasagar@rediffmail.com) : Medicinal plants used in the treatment of Diabetes mellitus in Bellary district, Karnataka. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 747-51.

An ethnobotanical survey of Bellary district, comprising seven Taluks was conducted during May 2009 to July 2011. A total of 28 species of folk drug plants belonging to 26 genera and 20 families were found to be used as a remedy for diabetes mellitus by the urban, rural and tribal people. The scientific, local and family names of these medicinal plants along with the habit, parts used and mode of their administrations are given in the present paper.

1 table, 26 ref

016172   Tholkappiyavathi K;Nadanakunjidam S (Plant Science and Biotechnology Dep, Kanchi Mamunivar Centre for Post-Graduate Studies, Lawspet, Puducherry-605 008) : Traditional medical knowledge of Nagapattinum district of Tamil Nadu, India. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 185-9.

Present study revealed the use of 116 plant species belonging to 107 genera and 55 families as herbal medicine in treatment of human ailments by the people of Nagapattinam District in Tamil Nadu, India. Ethnic groups met with are Kuravars, N arikuravars, Kurumbars and Irulars. 18 preparations from 17 plants species belonging to 17 genera are newly reported.

1 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

016171   Thakur N S A;Firake D M;Kumar D (Rodent Research Laboratory, Crop Improvement Div, , ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Umroi Road, Umiam, Meghalaya-793 103, Email: dfirake@gmail.com) : Indigenous Traps for the management of Rodent outbreak in North Eastern Hill region of India. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 730-5.

Use of rat traps is an ecologically sound and cheaper method of rodent management. Bamboo flowering and subsequent rodent outbreaks are common in North East India; hence tribal communities of the region have invented their own local devices to control rodents. Attempts were therefore made to collect the information on different indigenous traps and bait stations and also to evaluate their effectiveness at different locations in Mizoram. Four indigenous rodent traps and some bamboo made bait stations were commonly observed in the region. Amongst, traps, Vaithang and Chepthang were found to be highly efficient over conventional traps. Similarly, bamboo made bait stations were also observed to be more effective than other methods. Although, conventional traps were found less efficient but they can further be modified as per the design of efficient indigenous traps and could be commercialized for effective rodent management.

7 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

016170   Tambe S;Ansari Z (NO, S.P.H. Mahila College Malegeon Camp, Malegaon, Nasik-425 203, Email: ziya.ansari89@yahoo.com) : Ethno botanical information of some medicinal plants for treatment of various ailments used by the people of Malegaon in Nasik Dist. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 213-16.

There has been phenomenal development in the modern system of medicine in 21st century especially in synthesizing large number of active constituents of plants. This has led to the declining trend in the use of medicinal plants and crude drugs in the developing countries. However, plants occupy an important drugs used in modern medicine. Lately developed countries also realized the fact that herbal medicine are generally safe and free from side effect. Uses of plants or medicinal remedies is an integral parts of an Indian cultural life and this is unlikely to change in the years to come. An Ethno botanical observation of plants used for the treatment of various health problems was carried out Villages of Malegaon in Nasik Dist.

4 tables, 2 ref

016169   Talukdar D (Botany Dep, R.P.M. College, University of Calcutta, Uttarpara, Hooghly-712 258, Email: dibyendutalukdar9@gmail.com) : Allelopathic effects of Lantana camara L. on Lathyrus sativus L. : oxidative imbalance and cytogenetic consequences. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 71-90.

Allelopathic effects of Lantana camara L. leaf aqueous extracts were determined on Lathyrus sativus L. in Petri plate bioassay and pot experiments by studying growth parameters, antioxidant defence responses and cytological anomalies observed in root-tip mitosis and flower bud (anther) meiosis. Germination and dry weight of the legume were reduced significantly in dose-dependent way. Activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase increased, but these of ascorbate peroxidase declined at higher doses (200-300 mg/ml). Significant loss of ascorbate redox pool and decrease in ascorbate peroxidase activity in treated plants seriously impeded the scavenging of hydrogen peroxide, leading to its over-accumulation and concomitant rise in lipid peroxidation and membrane damage. At cytogenetic level, decrease in mitotic activity was indicated by low mitotic index, abnormal transition of divisional phases and even, complete halt in division. The chromotoxic effect of leaf extracts was exhibited by diverse types of chromosomal abnormalities, (stickiness and micronuclei formation in both divisions), while some phenomena like c-mitosis, anomalous nucleolous, unequal/late separation were found stage specific. This study strongly indicated the allelopathic potential of Lantanaleaf extracts, particularly at 200 mg/ml and 300 mg/ml doses, on induction of oxidative stress and cytotoxicity in L. sativus L.

8 illus, 3 tables, 80 ref

016168   Suresh D;Manorama S (PG and Research Botany Dep, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore-641 029) : Seed scarification studies in selected medicinal plants of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Western Ghats. J Ecotoxic envir Monit 2011, 21(3-4), 223-6.

Seed scarification studies in six medicinal plants namely, Anaphalis elliptica, Ceropegia pusilla, Hedyotis articularis, Heracleum rigens, Leucas vestita and Luzula campestris inhabiting the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Western Ghats have been carried out to know the germination ability. Seed germination rate has been increased in all the six species by the treatment of seeds with the growth promoter, Indole Acetic Acid at 100-150 ppm. The another growth promoter, Naphthalene Acetic Acid at 100-150 ppm also has considerable level of influence to increase the seed germination percentage of Ceropegia pusilla, Heracleum rigens, Leucas vestita and Luzula campestris. The growth hormone, Gibberellic acid at 100-150 ppm was determined to be effective for seed germination in three species viz., Hedyotis articularis, Heracleum rigens and Leucas vestita. The treatment of seeds with the growth promoters IAA, N A A and G A3 at the concentrations between 100 and 150 ppm are more effective for the germination of seeds of all select species. It is suggested that the sowing of seeds in suitable micro-sites of grasslands of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve after this standardized treatment can be used to enhance the populations considerably.

1 table, 13 ref

016167   Sun Y;Yang L;Wang Z;Fan J (School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China, Email: ylx_0813@yahoo.cn) : Temporal variations in soil juglone and soil microbial community structure under Manchurian walnut (Juglans mandshurica Maxim.) plantations. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 169-80.

The seasonal dynamics of juglone concentration and microbial community structure and the relationship between them is described. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) patterns were used to measure the juglone concentration in soil and to describe the composition of soil microbial communities in 0-10 cm rhizosphere and bulk soil of Manchurian walnut plantations of 15, 23 and 51 years age. Our results indicated that Manchurian walnut trees release a large quantity of juglone into the rhizosphere, but very little juglone reaches the bulk soil. This resulted in various impacts on the structure of soil microbial communities. Juglone therefore plays a critical allelochemical role in altering the composition of soil microbial communities.

3 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

016166   Suganya S;Neelamegam R (Botany and Research Centre Dep, St. Hindu College, Nagercoil-629 002 suganyasukumaran@yahoo.in) : Effect of Selected Plant Extracts of Rhizoctonia solani and the Incidence of Root Rot Disease of Arachis hypogaea (L). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 47-52.

Effect of crude aqueous leaf extracts of seven plants (viz, Azadiracta indica, Bambusa arudinaceae, Ervatamia caronaria, Lantana camera, Polyalthia longifolia, Santalum album and Terminalia catappa) were tested for their antifungal potential against the root rot pathogen of groundnut, R. solani. Aqueous leaf extracts of various concentrations showed inhibitory effect on the mycelial growth of Rhizoctonia solani at varying degrees of sensitivity. Among the seven plants tested, three plants -A. indica, S. album and T. catappa showed antifungal activity against R. solani at all concentrations and incubation periods. The seed treatment with leaf extract of these three plants effectively controls the root rot disease. Among the plant leaf extracts tested, the seed treatment with A. indica and T. catappa leaf extracts provide more protection to disease incidence (19.05%) and 14%, respectively) than the S. album leaf extract (61.90%). The leaf extract of these plants showed no significant allelopathic effect on ground nut seedling growth as compared to control.

1 illus, 3 tables, 5 ref

016165   Srivastava P;Chandothia S (Algal Biotechnological Laboratory, Botany Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004, Email: pushpashyam@rediffmail.com) : Additional nutrients for the growth of Spirulina-I. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 13-15.

In addition to physiological parameters, nutrients are mainly responsible for the yield of algal biomass in general and that of commerical alga Spirulina in particular. In the present investigation common salt 0.2 - 1% and soil extract 20 - 100% ere subtituted with minimal medium - Kratz and Mayer with 0.2% salt and 20% soil extract added medium, yield of Spirulina subsalsa biomass superceded that of minimal medium, reducing input cost of cultivation of the alga.

2 tables, 21 ref

016164   Srivastava P;Banerji B K (Floriculture Section, National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow-226 001, Email: prisri.aks1985@gmail.com) : Gender biasing in Arisaema - a unique and rare phenomenon. Curr Sci 2012, 102(2), 189-93.

Arisaema is flowering plant belongs to monocotyle-donous family Araceae (Arum family). The plant is known by many names due to its peculiar flowering habit and the shape of its attractive inflorescence. The plant resembles very much with insectivorous pitcher plant due to its foliar modification like a pitcher of a pitcher plant with attractive colour combination. These colours are mending for attracting the insects for pollination purpose. This unique plant has a long life of 100 years. The plant has alteration behaviour of sex pattern in response to change in ambient environment and or changes in size or age.

1 illus, 36 ref

016163   Srivastava P (Algal Biotechnological Laboratory, Botany Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004) : Impact of Biogas Slurry extract on the Growth of Spirulina. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 1-5.

Biogas slurry extract (BGSE) has been employed as an non-conventional source of minerals and trace elements as well as organic components on the growth of commercial alga Spirulina in open ponds. BGSE added to water 25-100% resulted in a very slow growth. However, with 10% BGSE added to CFTRI medium in proportion of 25 - 75%, 25% addition yielded maximum growth which superseded the growth in controlled set (CITRI medium). But further substitution BGSE in concentration of 5 - 20% in CITRI medium rendered highest biomass with improved quantity and quality of the produce. It reduced the cost input by 10 - 15%.

3 illus, 4 tables, 11 ref

016162   Soni S K;Pankaj C K (Botany Dep, Faculty of Science, Dayalbagh Educational Institute (Deemed University), Dayalbagh, Agra-282 110) : Isolation of Spirulina species from diverse water bodies of Agra and its biochemical analysis. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 7-8.

An attempt has been made to isolate different Spirulina species from the diverse water bodies at Agra. All the isolates were cultured in CITRI medium. Three Spirulina species were identified i.e. (1) Spirulina maxima (2) Spirulina platensis (3) Spirulina subsalsa. These three species were biochemically analyzed to evaluate superior one. The metabolites considered were - protein, carbohydrate, chlorophyll and carotenoids. The maximum percentage of above mentioned parameters were found in Spirulina platensis (61%, 16.5%, 1.36%, 0.29%) followed by S. maxima (58%, 15.50%, 1.32%, 0.27%) and S. subsalsa (58%, 14.35, 1.25%, 0.23%) respectively.

2 tables, 15 ref

016161   Soni R K;Dixit V;Irchhaiya R;Alok S (Pharmacognosy Dep, Bundelkhand Univ, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, Email: rajeshsoni1987@gmail.com) : Callicarpa macrophylla: a review update on its botany, ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacology. Int J Pharmac 2014, 1(2), 87-94.

Callicarpa macrophylla (Verbenaceae) has been commonly used in traditional medicine for a wide range of ailments related to the circulatory, digestive, endocrine, respiratory and skeletal systems as well as to infectious diseases. It is provide the up-to-date information that is available on the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of Callicarpa macrophylla. Additionally, to highlight the possible uses of this species to treat different diseases and to provide a basis for future research. The information was collected from scientific journals, books, theses and reports via a library and electronic search (Google Scholar, Web of Science and Science Direct). The phytochemical studies have shown the presence of many secondary metabolites belonging to terpenoids, flavonoids, carbohydrate, lignans, phenols and sterols. Crude extracts and isolated compounds from Callicarpa macrophylla show a wide spectrum of pharmacological activities, such as antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, antiarthritic, anti-pyretic & analgesic activities, as well as a usefulness help in alleviating pain in rheumatism. Callicarpa macrophylla has been widely used source of medicine for years without any adverse effects. Many studies have provided evidence for various traditional uses. However, there is a need for additional studies of the isolated compounds to validate the traditional uses in human models. The present review on the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry has provided preliminary information for further studies and commercial exploitations of the plant.

^iia2 tables, 37 ref

016160   Singh S (Botany Dep, J.S.M. College. Bermo, Bokaro-829 104, , Email: drsumanlatasingh@gmail.com) : Ethnomedicinal plants used in the treatment of menstruation problems in Bermo Sub-Division of Damodar Basin in Jharkhand. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 251-2.

A survey has been done to study the impact of biotic interference on the ethnomedicinal plants of Bermo Sub-division of Damodar basin in Jharkhand. This paper is based on information gathered from the practitioners, local knowledgeable persons, patients and villagers of the tribal sects. Information is collected concerning the use of plants as medicine regarding the parts used, mode of preparation of drug, mode of its administration and the doses. The leaf pulp of Aloe vera, juice of the plant of Cynodon dactylon, fruits power of Emblica officinalis, petals of the flower of red variety of Hibiscus rosa sinensis and the bark of the stem of Terminalia arjuna are used as medicines for different type of menstruation problems by the tribes of Bermo sub-division of Damodar basin inJharkhand. There are also a number of other herbs which have come to light in the recent years with miraculous therapeutic effects. It is hoped that some new and powerful medicines could soon be developed from the above plants used by the tribals.

2 tables, 10 ref

016159   Singh D P;Mall T P (Botany Dep, Kisan P.G. College, Bahraich-271 801, Email: drtpmall@rediffmail.com) : Two undescribed species of Pseudocercospora Speg. from India. Adv Life Sci 2013, 2(1), 81-3.

This communication deales with the descriptions and illustrations of undescribed species of fungus genus Pseudocercospora viz; P.caseariae Singh and Mall sp. nov. on Casearia tomentosa (Symadaceae) and P. zizyphii on Zizyphus sp. (Rhamnaceae) collected from North Western Tarai Forests of U.P. P. Caseariae is characterized by infection spots hypogenous, subcircular to circulare, upto 5 mm in diam in descrete patches in begning becoming effuse later on. Colonies effuse, tuftedmidto dark brown. Mycelium immersed. Stromata present, fascicles 27-37mm in diam. Conidiophores macronematous, synnematous, individual threads unbranched, generally flexuous, often narrow cylindrical adpressed near the base, somewhat towards the apex, olivaceous brown to light brown, smooth, 18-37 x 5-6 mm in diam. Conidiogenous cells integrated, terminal, often monoblastic and percurrent becoming polyblastic later on; sympodial and denticulate broad conidial denticles and no scars or thin scars. Conidia solitary, simple acrogenous on young conidiophores becoming acropleugenous later on, mostly cylindrical smooth or rugulose, straight to curved, apex obtuse, base obconico-cylindrical with numerous transverse septa, 29-68 x 3.5-5 mm in diam, hilum unthickened. P. zizyphii in characterized by infection spots amphigenous, subcircular to circular, upto 7 mm in diam; in desrete pathches in beginning becoming effuse later on. Colonies effuse, tufted mid to dark brown. Mycelium immersed. Stromata present, fascicles upto 37mm indiam. Coniodiophors macronematous, synnematous individual threads unbranched generally flexuous often narrow. Conidiogenous cells integrated, terminal often monoblastic, rarely polyblastic, sympodial scars thin. Conidia solitary, rarely catenate, simple on young acropleurogenous, mostly cylindrical, smooth, apex obtuse, base obconico-cylindrical with numerous transverse eusepta (generally) (3-9), 13-77x 3-5 mm in diam; hilum unthickened.

016158   Singh A;Santosh S;Kulshrestha M;Chand Khan; Lohani U C;Shahi N C (Post Harvest Process and Food Engineering Dep, College of Technology, G B Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar-263 145, US Nagar, UK, Email: kcphpfe@gmail.com) : Quality characteristics of Ohmic heated Aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) pulp. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 670-6.

Present investigation deals with quality characteristics of aonla pulp subjected to ohmic heating at 11, 13, 15, 17 v/cm voltage gradients. The time and temperature were the process variables which were kept fixed on the basis of preliminary experiments. The product characteristics were evaluated for vitamin C, tannin content, titrable acidity, colour and microbial counts. Results indicated that all the quality parameters were influenced by treatment and KMS addition significantly. Per cent loss for all quality parameter was found to be least in aonla pulp ohmically treated at 17 V/cm voltage gradient followed by 15, 13 and 11 V/cm while the losses were maximum in conventionally prepared aonla pulp. Ohmically heated aonla pulp at 90°C for 1 minute was observed to be sufficient for safe storage of aonla pulp with little quality losses. In terms of quality, ohmically treated aonla pulp was found to be superior than conventionally prepared one. The quality losses in terms of vitamin C, tannin, titrable acidity and colour lightness were positively correlated to each other. Within the experimental range investigated in this study, aonla pulp ohmically heated at 17V/cm voltage gradients was found to be best in terms of all the quality parameters.

2 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

016157   Shiragave P D;Ramteke A A (NO, Devchand College, Arjunnagar (Via -Nipani), Tal - Kagal, Dist - Kolhapur-591 269, Email: drpanditds@gmail.com) : Effect of micronutrients on germination and certain growth parameters in Cicer arietinum L. Adv Life Sci 2012, 1(2), 145-6.

Laboratory experiments were conducted to study the effect of micronutrients on germination and growth performance of Cicer arietinum. Micronutrients viz., ZnSO₄.2H₂O (4.0gm), MnSO₄.2H₂O(3.2gm) FeSO₄7H₂O(3.4gm), CuSO₄. 2H₂O (0.5gm) and MgSO₄.2H₂O (1.2gm) were used to treat seeds for 6 hrs, 12 hrs, 18 hrs and 24 hrs at various concentrations (5, 10, 15 ppm). The germination percentage and the plant growth parameters such as height, number of branches, number of flowers and number of pods were recorded. The results revealed the significance of micronutrient mixture on seed germination and growth parameters in C. arietinum.

016156   Shiny C T;Yadav K S;Yadav N P;Luqman S;Palni L M S (Botany and Pharmacognosy Dep, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow-226 015, Email: npyadav@gmail.com) : Comparative evaluation of Costus pictus D. Don leaf extracts against glucose challenged mice. Ann Phytomed 2013, 2(2), 57-62.

In this study authors evaluated the glucose tolerance potential of Costus pictus D. Don leaf extracted with hexane (CPH), ethyl acetate (CPEA), methanol (CPM), water (CPW), 50%methanol (CPMW) and fresh juice (CPFJ) in Swiss albino mice. The extracts of Costus pictuswere administered orally at two doses viz.,200 and 500 mg/kg body weight and the glucose lowering effect was calculated in normal healthy mice by oral glucose tolerance test. The results showed that the tolerance of glucose was increased in all treated groups. The ascending order ofglucose lowering effect of extracts was found as CPH-200 <62> CPW-200 <62> CPH-500 <62> CPFJ- 500 <62> CPMW-200 <62> CPFJ-200 <62> CPEA-200 <62> CPW-500 <62> CPM-200 <62> CPMW-500 <62> CPEA-500 <62>CPM-500. The methanolic extract at a dose of 500 mg/kg body weight showed the highest percentage of glucose lowering (72.40%), followed by ethyl acetate (67.38%) and was comparable to standard drug metformin.

2 illus, 1 table, 34 ref

016155   Sharma J;Gaur R D;Gairola S;Painuli R M; Siddiqi T O (Botany Dep, Jamia Hamdard, Hamdard Nagar, New Delhi-110 062, Email: rdgaur2009@gmail.com) : Traditional herbal medicines used for the treatment of skin disorders by the Gujjar tribe of Sub-Himalayan tract, Uttarakhand. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 736-46.

In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to explore the traditional knowledge on herbal medicines used as a remedy for skin disorders by the Gujjar tribe of Sub-Himalayan tract, Uttarakhand. The purpose of this study is to assess traditional knowledge on medicinal plants which forms a baseline data for future pharmacological and phytochemical studies, to identify the important species used for skin medicine, finding out methods for various preparations, and calculate the % informants in relation to medicinal plant use. In this study frequent field trips were made for the collection of plant specimens and information on medicinal aspects from traditional healers and women folk through questionnaire and interviews. The knowledge of herbal preparation, parts used, mode of administration and local name was also taken during the study period. The present study has resulted in the documentation of 109 medicinal plant species belonging to 57 families and 102 genera used by the Gujjars for treatment of different skin ailments, viz. allergy, blisters, boils, chilblain, cracked feet, cuts, eczema, leprosy, leucoderma, ringworms, sore and wounds. The findings of present study shows documentation of 22 plant species which are found little known or less reported in available published literature. The Gujjar tribe lives interiorly in the forest localities and Government is making policies to rehabilitate them outside of forest areas, it it is necessary to tap their rich heritable traditional knowledge on medicinal plants within time before it become vanished due to modernization. A comprehensive detailed search and report on the pattern of utilization of medicinal plants by this tribe has not evidenced in the earlier publications. Therefore, present attempt has been made to document traditional knowledge of Gujjar tribe used to treat different skin disorders by making various herbal preparations.

1 table, 32 ref

016154   Sharma C M;Khanduri V P (Forestry Dep, HNB Garhwal Univ, Srinagar Garhwal-246 174) : Pollen cone characteristics, pollen yield and pollen-mediated gene flow in Cedrus deodara. Curr Sci 2012, 102(3), 394-7.

2 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref