016153   Shankar U (Botany Dep, North-Eastern Hill Univ, Shillong-793 022, Email: arshuma@yahoo.com) : Effect of seed abortion and seed storage on germination and seedling growth in Aquilaria malaccensis Lamk. (thymelaeaceae). Curr Sci 2012, 102(4), 596-604.

The fruit of Aquilaria malaccensis is a bilocular dehiscent capsule, with each locule harbouring a single seed. If this species aborts a developing seed within a fruit, does the remaining seed benefit in terms of enhanced seed weight, and do heavier seeds confer germination and growth advantages over lighter seeds? As seeds mature in the middle of the rainy season when moisture is abundant in the soil, does desiccation in the storage of seeds reduce germination success? To test these predictions, 821 fruits were examined, including two-thirds fruits that were one-seeded and one-third fruits two-seeded. Fresh seeds varied nearly fivefold in weight, from 28.8 to 134.8 mg. However, the mean seed weight did not vary significantly between the seeds from one- and two-seeded fruits. On storage at room temperature (28 ± 2°C), the seeds lost 40 ± 1.2% moisture by the 5th day and 55 ± 1.5% by the 14th day. Yet, the difference in mean seed weight was not significant between the seeds from one- and two-seeded fruits. Germination percentage of fresh seeds increased with increase in seed weight: seeds <60> 40 mg failed to germinate, those between 40 and 80 mg resulted in 10.5% germination and those <62> 80 mg germinated vigorously (54.8%). This trend was steady when seeds stored for 5 and 14 days were sown. Germination percentage of all seeds declined drastically with storage time: from 31 for seeds without storage to 25 for 5 days of storage and only 1% for 14 days of storage. Germination was epigeous and it was completed within 40 days from sowing. Time to germination was lesser for heavier than lighter seeds. Survival of seedlings and their growth from heavier seeds was significantly greater than those from lighter seeds. The study shows that the abortion of one of the two seeds does not enhance the weight of the remaining seed. Yet greater seed weight (<62> 80 mg) is advantageous for better germination and seedling growth in A. malaccensis.

7 illus, 3 tables, 49 ref

016152   Shah U R;Shah R G;Acharya N S;Acharya S R (NO, Pioneer Pharmacy Degree College, Vadodara-390 019, Email: shahunnai_3@yahoo.com) : Comparative pharmacognostic study of leaves of Adhataoda vasica and Ailanthus excelsa. Int J Pharmac 2014, 1(2), 95-8.

Adhataoda vasica and Ailanthus excelsa are distributed throughout tropical and sub tropical parts of India. Their leaves are used as expectorant and bronchodilator. The present investigation deals with the comparative pharmacognostical study of the leaves of the two species and establishment of its quality parameters. Detailed morphological and qualitative as well as quantitative microscopic study was carried out. This was followed by phytochemical screening of the species. Leaf surface microscopy of Adhataoda vasica shows polygonal thin walled epidermal cells and diacytic stomata whereas Ailanthus excels shows penta and hexagonal epidermal cells and anomocytic stomata. The chief powder characterises of Adhataoda vasica leaf powder are 2-4 celled blunt covering trichomes, sessile glandular trichomes, acicular and prismatic calcium oxalate crystals whereas Ailanthus excelsa leaf powder shows multicellulr bent thick walled covering trichomes, multicellular head and stalk glandular trichomes, cluster and rosette calcium oxalate crystals. The present work can serve as a useful tool in the identification, authentication and standardization of the plant material and distinguishing the two species from each other. The present study can be very useful in distinguishing Adhataoda vasica and Ailanthus excelsa, standardizing their formulations as well as serving as a guide for isolating novel phytoconstituents from them.

2 illus, 4 tables, 12 ref

016151   Selvaraj K;Sevugaperumal R;Ramasubramanian V (Botany Dep, Ayya Nadar Janaki Ammal College (Autonomous), Sivakasi-626 124, Virudhunagar District, Tamilnadu, Email: ksanuvai@gmail.com) : Match industry effluent induced stress-ameliorating efficacy of Sargassum wightii on reduced morphometric, biochemical and enzymatic Characteristics of Cyamopsis tetragonoloba Taub. Adv Life Sci 2013, 2(1), 38-41.

Match industry effluent containing heavy metals that are toxic to plants, reduces the plant yield and even the soil fertility, although these toxic substances could be removed by plants and dried plant materials. The ameliorative effect of Sargassum wightii at different concentration viz., 2g, 4g and 6g/l in 60% concentrated Match industry effluent treated on Cyamopsis tetragonoloba Taub. was analyzed. Impact of effluent was understood by a steep decline in growth characters, pigment content and other biochemical characteristics. The powder of Sargassum wightii in 60% concentration of the effluent in different concentrations brought about considerable increase in germination percentage, growth and biochemical characteristics in Cyamopsis tetragonoloba Taub than when they were treated with Match industry effluent alone. Seaweed extract used in this study was found to be efficient in nullifying the toxicity of effluent on growth and biochemical characteristics of Cyamopsis tetragonoloba Taub.

016150   Saxena V;Mohan J;Mohan N (Botany Dep, D.A.V. College, Kanpur, Email: vishsaxena@rediffmail.com) : Physico-chemical characteristic of algal flora (Chlorophyceae) of Sher Shah Suri Pond, Kanpur. Adv Life Sci 2013, 2(1), 62-63.

Physico-chemical characteristics of Sher Shah Suri pond were found variable according to the season. The study of occurrence and periodicity of algal sample revealed that distribution of green algae (chlorophyceae) were 15 out of 40 total algae recorded belongs to all the group of fresh water i.e. cyanophyceae, chlorophyceae and bacillariophyceae.

016149   Saikia P;Khan M L (Environmental Science Dep, Tezpur Univ, Napaam- 784 028, Email: purabi.saikia83@gmail.com) : Aquilaria malaccensis lam., a red-listed and highly expoited tree species in the Assamese home garden. Curr Sci 2012, 102(4), 546-47.

7 ref

016148   Rayhan M M (Microbiology Dep, Stamford University of Bangladesh, , Email: Siddeshwari, Dhaka, Bangladesh) : Isolation and identification of fungal species from bio-compost. Adv Life Sci 2013, 2(1), 84-7.

Bio-compost, widely used to produce natural organic fertilizers, is a mixture of decayed organic materials. Bio-compost can be found in a warm, moist, aerobic and anaerobic environment. The proper use of bio-compost in the agricultural fields is required for beneficial growth of plants, which is needed for humans as well as environment. Previous studies demonstrated a high number of bacteria, which could be detrimental to the environment. The present study was designed to determine the fungal status. Fifteen samples from different sites were assessed. Results showed that Aspergillus sp., Saccharomyces sp., Candida. sp. and different types of yeasts and molds predominated in all samples. All the isolates were observed under light microscope and biochemical test was performed for further identification.

016147   Rabia Naz; (Plant Sciences Dep, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad Pakistan, Email: banoasghari@gmail.com ) : Effects of Calotropis procera and Citrullus colosynthis on germination and seedling growth of maize. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 105-16.

The allelopathic potential of leaf extracts (0.8, 0.1 and 1.2%) of Calotropis procera and Citrullus colosynthis, were studied in laboratory and pot in culture on germination and seedlings growth of maize. The aqueous leaf extracts of C. procera enhanced the germination, but all concentrations of C. colosynthis extracts were inhibitory. However all concentrations of C. procera and C. colosynthis extracts stimulated the seedling growth (root length, shoot length, fresh and dry weight of root and shoot) of maize. The highest concentration (1.2%) of both species C. procera and C. colosynthis increased the seedling growth of maize by stimulating their root length, shoot length, fresh and dry weight in both laboratory and pot study. Thus Zea mays can be planted in the vicinity of these naturally growing plant species due to their stimulatory effect on growth.

2 illus, 5 tables, 37 ref

016146   Qinfen L;Guangyili;Zhendi L;Deng X; (Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropic, , Haikou, Hainan Province, 571101, China, Email: qinfenli2005@163.com) : Effects of herbicides application on allelopathic potential of Eupatorium catarium. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 139-46.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of 3-herbicides (Paraquat,Glyphosate, Fluazifop-butyl) on the aqueous extract of Eupatorium catarium on seed germination of Brassica rapa L. ssp. Chinensis L. experiments. The E. catarium aqueous extract were prepared every 10-days after the herbicides application at various rates. The B. rapa L. ssp. Chinensis L. seeds were immersed in 4- concentrations (0.5,0.25, 0.125 and 0.0625 g/ml) of aqueous extract of E. catarium. The inhibitory effects of E. catarium aqueous extracts on germination were enhanced under herbicides stress.Compared to control, the 0.5g/ml aqueous extract treated with herbicides drastically reduced germination from 80-90% to 5-20%, while, aqueous extract <0.25 g/ml concentrations had no inhibit the germination. Furthermore, herbicides stress time influenced the allelopathic potential of E. catarium, the aqueous extracts at day 10 after application of paraquat (extract concentration: 0.25,0.5 g/ml) and fluazifop-butyl(extract concentration: 0.5 g/ml) caused maximum inhibition, while, for glyphosate (extract concentration: 0.25,0.5 g/ml), aqueous extracts at 30 days after application was most inhibitory. Thus, our results indicated that allelopathic activities of aqueous extracts from E. catarium varied with herbicides stress, which strongly inhibited the germination of B. rapa L. ssp. Chinensis.

3 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

016145   Pragati (Botany Dep, M.S. College, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh) : Effects of acid rain upon stomatal parameters of Zinnia elegans. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 289-91.

The effect of acid upon stomatal parameters of Zinnia elegans have been studied. Results showed a decrease in parameters like number of stomata/leaf unit area, no. of arrested cells, no. of free cells/leaf unit area, stomatal index, arrested cell index, free cell index, density and coverage area, when plants were treated with acid rain solutions.

2 tables, 10 ref

016144   Pirbalouti A G;Moalem E (Medicinal Plants Dep, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Research Center for Medicinal Plants & Ethno-, PO Box: 166, Shahrekord, Iran, Email: ghasemi@iaushk.ac.ir) : Variation in antibacterial activity of different ecotypes of Satureja khuzestanica Jamzad, as an Iranian endemic plant. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 623-9.

Satureja khuzestanica Jamzad is an endemic plant that widely distributed in South-west Iran. In the folk medicine, S. khuzestanica has been used as analgesic and antiseptic among the inhabitants of southern parts of Iran. The study determined variations of carvacrol content and antibacterial activity of essential oil (EO) from different ecotypes of S. khuzestanica. The aerial part of wild populations of S. khuzestanica at full flowering was collected from different natural habitats in South-west Iran. The EO of an ecotype was characterized using GC-MS. Carvacrol contents in the EOs, the main component in the EO of S. khuzestanica (90.8%), were determined by using HPLC. The results showed the carvacrol contents in different ecotypes ranged 42.5 - 94.8 mg/ml EO. The highest content of carvacrol in all investigated samples was obtained from Mangreh-II ecotype. The antibacterial activity of the EOs was tested against four pathogens. The inhibition zones and MIC values for bacterial strains, which were sensitive to the EOs of S. khuzestanica, were in the range of 12-32 mm and 0.019-0.312 mg/ml, respectively. The EO of Mangreh-II ecotype showed the strongest antibacterial activity. This ecotype had the highest amount of carvacrol in comparison with other ecotypes. The results may be used in ecotype selection program for cultivation and production of carvacrol with suppressing effect on pathogens in same growing conditions.

3 illus, 3 tables, 33 ref

016143   Patil V P;Bhosal A M (Botany Dep, R.B.N.B. College, Shrirampur, Tal.-Shrirampur, Dist. - Ahmednagar-413 709) : Effect of Azospirillum spp formulation on wheat growth with reference to height, tillers and leaves numbers, (Triticum aestivum L.). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 45-6.

Deals with strains of Azospirillum spp. from soil samples of 10 villages near by Shrirampur Tehsil, Distt. - Ahmednagar. From these localities total 10 different strains of Azospirillum were isolated and used for further investigation. Out of 10 six strains were proved significantly effective for the growth of wheat crop. Amongst mixture form A2+A4+A6 was a superior in their activity than individual strain.

3 tables, 10 ref

016142   Oliveira A K M;Ribeiro J W F;Fontoura F M; Matias R (Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Meio Ambiente e Desenvolvimento Regional, Universidade Anhanguera-Uniderp, Campo Grande, Rua Alexandre Herculano, 1,400, CEP 79.037-280, Brazil, Email: akmorbeck@hotmail.com) : Leaf extract effect of Vochysia divergens on lettuce and tomato. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 129-38.

In laboratory bioassays, the phytochemical activity of leaf extracts (0, 2.5, 5,10 and 20%) of Vochysia divergens Cambar  (Pohl) was investigated on germination and growth of lettuce and tomato. In all concentrations, the pH of extract was 4.3 ±0.3, electrical conductivity was 14.9 to 26.1 μScm^-1 and soluble solids concentration (expressed in degrees Brix) was 0.8. The extract concentrations did not influence the lettuce seed germination but reduced the seedlings vigour. The development of primary roots and aerial part was inhibited. The tomato seeds germination was affected at 20% concentration. The vigour of germination was greatly reduced at all concentrations and the development of primary roots and aerial part was notably impeded. Chemical analysis of extract revealed presence of phenolic compounds (FC=4.16 to 9.32 μg/g), tannins, flavonoids (F= 2.44 to 4.17 μg/g), coumarins, steroids and free triterpenes.

2 illus, 2 tables, 40 ref

016141   Ojo D O;Ogunleye R E (Zoology Dep, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, Email: entojo1@gmail.com) : Comparative effectiveness of the powders of some underutilized botanicals for the control of sitophilus Zeamais (Motschulsky) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Int J pure appl Sci Technol 2013, 16(2), 55-62.

Experiments were conducted to study the effectiveness of powders of some underutilized botanicals for the control of Sitophilus zeamais. The tested plants are: Piptadeniastrum africanum, Piper guineense, Alstonia boonei, Garcinia kola, Xylopia aethiopica, Picralima nitida and Aristolochia repens. The effects of the powders were observed at different dosage rates : 0.0g (Control), 0.5g, 1.0g, 1.5g and 2.0g per 20g of maize grains which correspond to 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10.0%w/w. Twenty (20) newly emerged adults of S. zeamais were introduced into the plastic containers and percentage mortality as well as adult emergence were determined. The results showed that among the plant powders tested, Piper guineense was the most effective in all durations which gave 90% at day two (2) in the treatment with 10.0%w/w. This was followed by A. repens, root bark of P. africanum and leaf of P. africanum which gave 97.50%, 80 % and 87.5% at day four (4) in the treatment with 10.0%w/w. The effect of the plant powders of G. kola, A. boonei, X. aethiopica and P.nitida were not significantly different (p≥0.05) from the control throughout the trial period. However, there was a progressive decrease in the number of the first filial generation of S. zeamais in all the powders tested.

1 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

016140   Nehul J N;Nikam T D (Dada Patil Rajale College, , Adinthnagar, Tal-Pathardi, Dist.-Ahmednagar-414 505, Email: jnnehul@gmail.com) : Antifungal activity of extracts from cyanobacterium Lyngbya bipunctata Lemm. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 17-19.

Lyngbya bipunctata was isolated from the collected soil samples from different locations. Identification was carried out using morphological variation and taxonomical approaches according to Desikachary (1959) and Prescott (1962). The axenic culture of Lyngbya bipunctata was obtained by using the method recommended by Bolch and Blackburn (1996). The isolated Lyngbya bipunctata was grown autotropically in BG-ll medium as described by Rippka et al., (1979) and incubated at 30± 2°C. After 25 days, biomass was harvested by filtration through double layered muslin cloth and dried using air blower. The biomass of this Lyngbya bipunctata species was used for the assessment of antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger, Trichophyton capitanum, Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium monelliforme, Helminthosphorium sp., Alternaria sp. and Candida albicans. In the light of the experimental result concerning the antifungal activity against the tested fungal organisms, the results recorded clearly showed that the methanol extracts of Lyngbya bipunctata towards the tested fungi positive results.

1 table, 23 ref

016139   Nandan S N;Pathan A (P.G. Botany Dep, S.S.V.P.S.L.K.Dr. P.R. Ghogrey Science College, Dhule-424 005, Email: ssvpprgsc@rediffmail.com) : Diversity study of cyanophyceae of Malangaon dam of Dhule of Maharashtra (India). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 9-11.

Class Cyanophyceae was mainly represented by 63 species belonging to 21 genera viz., Microcystis, Chroococcus, Gleocapsa, Gleotheceae, Aphanocapsa, Aphanothecee, Synechocystis, Merismopedia, Dactylococcopsis, Dermocarpa, Myxosarcina, Hydrococcus, Oscillatoria, Phormidium, Lyngbya, Symplocca, Cylindopspermum, Nostoc, Anabaena, Calothrix and Gleotrichia. The Oscillatoria with 19 species was recorded to be the most dominant genus of the region.

1 table, 12 ref

016138   Nagaraja T G (Botany Dep, The New College, Kolhapur-416 012, Email: tgnagaraja2010@gmail.com) : In vitro evaluation of anti microbial activity of Calophyllum inophyllum Linn. Adv Life Sci 2013, 2(1), 64-65.

An attempt was made to assess the anti microbial activity of Calophyllum inophyllum Linn in vitro condition using acetone extract of leaf and stem by Agar well diffusion method. Staphylococcus aureus, E. Coli and Micrococcus sp., were used as test bacteria for assessing anti bacterial activity. The leaf and stem extract were found to possess good anti bacterial properties.

016137   Mundhe B F;Borse R D (Padmashri Vikhe Patil College of Arts, Science & Commerce, , Pravaranagar, A/p-Loni, Tal. Rahata, Dest. Ahmednagar-413 713, Email: bfmundhe@gmail.com ) : Traditional uses of medicinal plants by tribal and rural folk from parner Taluka-Ahmednagar District (M.S.). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 195-6.

Parner taluka is rich in medicinal and economically important plants. Various plants are used by the tribal and rural folk as to cure diseases. During this recent exploration on about 15 plants were recorded. These plants were studied from ethnobotanical point of view.

1 table, 5 ref

016136   Morais E C (Faculdade de Ciˆncias Aplicadas Doutor Leao Sampaio, , Juazeiro do Norte-CE, Brasil, Email: hdmcoutinho@gmail.com) : Evaluation of Antimicrobial and Modulatory activity of the extract of Richardia brasiliensis Gomes. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 619-22.

The emergence of resistant microorganisms and also the toxicity associated with antimicrobial drugs increase the need of research for new active principles. Richardia brasiliensis, a weed used popularly as an expectorant, antiemetic, and diaphoretic. The extracts have coumarins, flavonoids, steroids, triterpenoids, alkaloids and resin, as secondary metabolites. The present study aimed to test the potential antimicrobial and modulator of the ethanolic and hexanic extracts of R. brasiliensis. The ethanolic and hexanic extracts were tested for their antimicrobial effect and in combination with aminoglycosides and antifungal against standard and multi-resistant microorganisms by the broth microdilution method with culture medium Brain Heart Infusion (BHI). It was observed that the association between antibiotics and ethanolic and hexanic extracts showed clinically relevant results on the tests with multi-resistant bacteria. The natural products from R. brasiliensis demonstrated a modulating action against the microorganisms used. These results can represent a new effort to combat antibiotic resistant bacteria.

2 table, 24 ref

016135   Mohan J;Mohan N (Paryavaran Sodh Ekai, Botany Dep, D.A-V. College, Kanpur, Email: drnmohan@rediffmail.com) : Influence of chelate DTPA on growth and yield of barley plants. Adv Life Sci 2012, 1(2), 157-8.

Barley (Hordium vulgare L. var. Jyoti) plants were raised in sand culture conditions with nil (0), 6.25, 25, 100 and 400 ppm levels of DTPA along with full nutrition solutions. Effect of DTPA on growth and tissue concentration of minerals were studied. Yield of barley plants at all the stages of growth studied showed an increase with the increase in levels of DTPA up to 25 ppm. Increase in tissue concentration of calcium, iron, manganese were found in the range of 6.25 to 25 ppm level of DTPA. However, DTPA decreased the nitrogen contents of plants.

016134   Maxia A;Meli F;Gaviano C;Picciau R;Martis B D;Kasture S;Kasture V (Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Macrosezione di Bo, Universit… di Cagliari, Italy, Email: a.maxia@unica.it) : Dye plants: natural resources from traditional botanical knowledge of Sardinia Island, Italy. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 651-6.

Now a days the use of wild plant species for colouring textile articles is very modest in Europe, mainly because of the incessant production of synthetic dyes, which are economic and easy to find. The tradition of using dye plants still persists in the Mediterranean region, but is not widely studied. In this paper, the authors, for the first time, study the natural colours and wild species used in the popular Sardinian tradition. They try to bring order and Scientific rigor of an important topic, with an emphasis on the economic value of knowledge passed down orally from generation to generation.

3 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

016133   Marwa J;Cabuy R L;Tawer A Y (Forest Management Dep, Forestry Faculty, Papua State University (UNIPA), Manokwari 98314, West Papua, Indonesia, Email: reinnardcabuy@gmail.com) : Potential and pattern of utilization of Renewable Energy sources from vegetation based on local Knowledge of Ireres tribe in Tambrauw, West Papua, Indonesia. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(3), 411-17.

This paper deals with local knowledge of Ireres tribe in utilizing vegetation for meet fuel needs. Purpose of this study was to reveal traditional knowledge for making fire by means of traditional process that handed down from generation to generation within their tribe. This study was held in the Asses village, Miyah District of Tambrauw on the mid of 2011. Information acquired through direct interviews of 10 persons who are considered to have experience in relation to the process of making such material. In addition, direct survey was also conducted to see and document the whole process. Result showed that scientifically such process quite simple, but the end result of the product was passably. This was evidenced by the calorific value that reaches 4,027 cal/gm. Such value, directly suggests that the product has great potential as a substitution material fuel wood particularly for most traditional communities in Papua.

3 illus, 22 ref

016132   Maroyi A (Biodiversity Dep, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1106 Sovenga 0727, South Africa, Email: alfred.maroyi@gmail.com) : Local knowledge and use of Marula[Sclerocarya birrea. Rich.) Hochst.] in South-central Zimbabwe. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(3), 398-403.

The aim of this study was to document indigenous knowledge related to the use of Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich.) Hochst. subsp. caffra(Sond.) Kokwaro (Marula) in South-central Zimbabwe. One hundred and sixteen participants from 4 villages were interviewed between December 2011 and January 2012. Local communities in South-central Zimbabwe derive many benefits from Marula. The main product harvested by the participants was the fruit. The ripe fruits were eaten raw (100%), kernels were eaten raw (100%) or roasted (33.6%), fruit juice fermented to produce children's beverage (22.4%) or traditional beer (35.3%), making jam (14.7%), oil processing (8.6%) and added to maize, millet and sorghum porridge (4.3%). Marula has also medicinal uses and the leaves and fruits were browsed by livestock. This study calls for large-scale cultivation of Marula not only in South-central Zimbabwe, but also in neighbouring countries where the species occurs naturally and has the potential to positively affect local peoples' livelihoods.

1 illus, 5 tables, 28 ref

016131   Majumdar K;Debnath S;Sinha R K (Botany Dep, Belonia College, Belonia, Tripura) : Effect of crude methanolic stem extract of Tinospora cordifolia and T. malabarica on root meristmetic activity in Allium cepa. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 179-83.

Studies were carried out on ethnomedicinally important plants, the Tinospora cordifolia and T. malabarica under the family Menispermaceae. Higher total soluble protein, sugar and phenolic content was recorded in T. cordifolia as compared to T. malabarica. Crude methanolic stem extracts of these two species were tested for their cytotoxicity and antimitotic activity on root meristem cells of Allium cepa. L. Prolonged duration of treatments with higher concentrations produced higher degree of mitodepression with very low mitotic indices. No clastogenetic effect and chromosomal abnormalities was recorded in the present study.

5 tables, 22 ref

016130   Mahassni S H;Al-Reemi R M (Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Email: sawsanmahassni@hotmail.com) : Cytotoxic effect of an aqueous extract of Lepidium sativum L. seeds on human breast cancer cells. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 605-14.

Easily available alternative and natural remedies for breast cancer are sought to reduce or eliminate the disadvantages of conventional treatments. Garden cress seeds (L. sativum L.) are known to contain several chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic constituents. The effect of L. sativum plant extract on cancers is generally attributed to the constituent isothiocyanates, specifically benzyl isothiocyanate, which are also present in the seeds. The current work examines, for the first time, the cytotoxic effect of the aqueous extract of L. sativum seeds on MCF-7 breast cancer cells, using the trypan blue dye exclusion and sulforhodamine B assays, compared to its effect on normal human HFS cells. The MCF-7 cell culture morphology, after exposure to the extract, was studied using light microscopy. Finally, HPLC was used to ascertain whether benzyl isothiocyanate is contained in the seeds extract. The results showed that the L. sativum seeds aqueous extract had a significant cytotoxic effect on MCF-7 cells, by causing significant time- and dose-dependent decreases in their viability. In contrast, the HFS cells were significantly more resistant to the cytotoxic effect of the extract. Therefore, the current study provides strong evidence of the L. sativum seeds extract's ability to inhibit growth of breast cancer cells.

5 illus, 2 tables, 38 ref

016129   Li Q;Zou Y;Li G;Zhang G (Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricuture Sciences, , Haikou-571 101, Hainan Province, China, Email: qinfenli2005@163,com) : Bio-degradation of precocene II by Novosphingobium capsulatum. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 225-32.

Precocene II is a major allelochemical produced by the weed Ageratum conyzoides. Its degradation is important in the recovery of A. conyzoides invaded plant communities. Using a strain of N. capsulatum isolated from the A. conyzoides invaded/infested soil; we examined the effects of various factors viz., incubation time, temperature, initial pH, and carbon and nitrogen source on the degradation of precocene II. We found that under optimal conditions with supplementation with a carbon and nitrogen source, up to 79.8% precocene II is degraded by N. capsulatum.

2 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

016128   Li L L;Li T L;Zhang G C;Zhang E P;Zang J;Wu Z C (NO, College of GHoorticulture, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China 110866, Email: enpingz@yahoo.com) : Degradation patterns of phenolic acids in soil. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 181-8.

Studied the degradation of 3- Phenolic Acids (phthalic acid, benzoic acid and cinnamic acid) in soil in laboratory incubation experiment to determine their residence time in soil. The correlations between the residual rates and some soil properties were statistically analyzed. The decomposintion rate of test phenolic acids was highest in first 5- days. The decomposition rate of benzoic acid and cinnamic acid in the soil was relatively slow. The total content of phenolic acid substance was not reduced by adding activated carbon or carbonized corncob to soil, but the content of water-soluble phenolic acid substances was reduced. Degradation of phthalic acid was primarily affected by soil pH and soil clay content, and benzoic acid was affected by soil pH, activated manganese and iron and that of cinnamic acid was influenced by soil pH, activated iron and organic matter.

2 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

016127   Kurra S R;Pathipati U R (Biology and Biotechnology Div, Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Tarnaka, Hyderanad-500 607, Email: usharanipathipati@gmail.com) : Insect herbivory induced foliar oxidative stress: changes in primary compounds, secondary metabolites and reactive oxygen species in sweet potato Ipomoea batata L. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 157-68.

Herbivore damage induces several chemical changes in the infested plants which are normally considered as plant's defense responses. Studied the effects of tobacco cutworm [Spodoptera litura(Fabricius)] feeding on primary, secondary metabolites and enzymatic constituents in leaves of sweet potato (Ipomoea batata L) plants. Quantitative and qualitative changes in biochemical and enzymatic profile of infested plants were analyzed spectrophotometrically and compared with normal intact plants. The individual phenolic acids were identified using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) by comparing with standard phenolic compounds in accordance to retention times. The quantities of proteins, amino acids and total phenol content in infested plants were enhanced, whereas, carbohydrate concentration was decreased than normal plants. An increase in the activities of peroxidase (POD), phenyl alanine ammonia lyase (PAL), super oxide dismutase (SOD) and a decrease in the levels of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) with respectto healthy plants were recorded in pest damaged I. batataplants. An elevated levels of individual phenolicsacids such as chlorogenic, caffeic and cinnamic acids were observed in S. liturainfested plants compared to normal healthy sweet potato plant leaves.

3 illus, 1 table, 53 ref

016126   Kumari P;Chahar M K;Veerapur V P;Spandana G; Thippeswamy B S;Badami S (NO, Sree Siddaganga College of Pharmacy, Tumkur-572 102, Karnataka, Email: veeresh36@gmail.com) : Spider web ointment: a traditional based approach in Cutaneous wound healing. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 657-63.

Spider web is being used in India and other countries to promote wound healing. Its ointment at 2.5 and 5% w/w concentrations was tested for wound healing activity in excision and incision wound models in rats. A significant reduction in the area of excision wound was observed for both the treatments when compared to normal healing and control ointment treatments. The period of epithelization for spider web treatments was much lower than the standard povidone iodine ointment and significant when compared to normal and control ointment treatments. In the linear incision wound model, spider web ointment at 2.5% w/w showed 30.65% increase in the tensile strength compared to normal healing. The histological evaluation revealed that the spider web ointment lowers scores in terms of scab, ulcus, polymorphonuclear cells and high scores of re-epithelization and neovascularization when compared to normal healing group. Both the concentration of spider web ointment (2.5% and 5% w/w) exhibited similar wound healing activity. Therefore, the optimum effective dose of spider web ointment is 2.5% w/w concentration. The wound healing activity may be due to increase in collagen synthesis and probably due to the presence of proteins in the web. The present study provides a scientific base for the traditional use of spider web for wound healing.

3 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

016125   Kremer R J (USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Cropping Systems & Water Quality, University of Missouri, 302 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, 65211 USA, Email: bob.kremer@ars.usda.gov) : Interactions between the plants ad microorganisms. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 51-70.

Allelopathic microorganisms comprise rhizobacteria and fungi that colonize the surfaces of plant roots and produce and release phytotoxic metabolites, similar to allelochemicals, that adversely affect the growth of their host plants. The allelopathic microorganisms are grouped separately from typical phytopathogens because they do not follow classical disease cyclesinvolving aggressive infection and colonization of plant tissues. Allelopathic microorganisms passively suppress or inhibit the plant root growth through production ofvariety of phytotoxic compounds absorbed by the plant, or they compete for limited plant nutrients in the rhizosphere. Thus it is important to understand the effects of allelopathic microorganisms on plant growth and discern these from traditional phytopathogens so that appropriate management of plant growth problems can be implemented based on this knowledge. The purpose of this paper is to provide basic information on protocol development of bioassays to identify allelopathic microorganisms associated with plants. Guidance provided by the general procedures is presented as templates for devising custom protocols to aid in eventual development of standardized bioassays for consistent detection and characterization of allelopathic microorganisms, for which little information and reliable data currently exist. The use of improved bioassays that yield reproducible results will enhance comprehension of the effects of allelopathic microorganisms on plant growth and increase the overall perspective of functional biology and ecology of the rhizosphere microbial community beyond general descriptions of interactions between plants and soilborne phytopathogens.

7 tables, 34 ref

016124   Kosalge S B;Fursule R A;Patil P O;Deshmukh P K (NO, H. R. Patel Women's College of Pharmacy, Shirpur, Distt. Dhule, Maharashtra) : Marketing of medicinal plants of Satpuda hills, Nandurbar, Maharashtra (India). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 173-5.

Ethno medicinal project was carried out in the area comprising Satpuda hill forest of Nandurbar district of Maharashtra state in India. The residents of the area use indigenous medicinal plants for curing diseases and also sell some of them in the local market for earning their live hood. A survey conducted shows that almost 90% of these medicinal plants are sold in the local market in fresh form as the collectors are poor and needy. Some species are cleaned, dried in the sun and stored in plastic bags. The percentage of losses is much higher in the storage because the collectors are unaware about the proper storage methods of these plants. The availability of medicinal plants decreased during the past 15 years. According to aged villagers, medicinal plants were abundant in" the vicinities of human settlements some 15 years back. However, the population of medicinal plants drastically decreased due to non-sustainable harvesting methods like digging of whole plant. The medicianl plants are now collected in large volumes from remote areas of Satpuda hills.

1 table, 15 ref

016123   Korekare G;Singh H;Srivastava R B;Stobdan T (Defence Institute of High altitude Research, Defence Research and Development organization, Leh Ladakh-194 101, Email: ts_mbb@yahoo.com) : Tricotyledony in Hippophae rhamnoides L. (Elaeagnaceae). Curr Sci 2012, 102(2), 159-60.

1 illus, 7 ref

016122   Kim H;Song M J (School of Alternative Medicine and Health Science, Jeonju University, 303 Cheonjam-ro Wansan-gu, Jeonju 560 759, Republic of Korea, Email: hyunk@jj.ac.kr) : Oral traditional plant-based therapeutic applications for pain relief recorded in North Jeolla province, Korea. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 573-84.

This study aims to investigate and announce orally transmitted traditional plant-based therapies for pain relief in North Jeolla Province, Korea. Data was collected with semi-structured questionnaires through the participatory rural appraisal method. This study reveals that overall 23 pain ailments have been treated with a total of 82 species of medicinal plants belonging to 74 genera in 45 families. This study also reports 313 different modes of plant-based therapeutic application of medicinal material. The informant consensus factor for pleurodynia, slipped disk and frozen shoulder is 1.00, the highest among 23 different pain ailments, followed by lumbago, chronic myofascial pain, melosalgia, sinews and joints pain, arthralgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, etc. Medicinal plants with 100% fidelity level and above three mentions among informants were 15 species. This study can help to preserve the traditional knowledge and local health traditions of North Jeolla Province amidst rapid industrialization and urbanization. The findings of this study warrant follow-up clinical research to determine the most effective traditional remedies towards development of herbal medicinal products for integration into the Korean healthcare system. These results will help to prepare the way for advanced research such as new medicines and new therapies that could be of help clinically.

2 illus, 4 tables, 31 ref

016121   Khan M R (Botany Dep, Poon College, Pune-411 007) : The Effect of Pretreatments- on Seed Germination of the Cassia auriculata Linn. and Cassia tora Linn. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 253-6.

Seeds of many species exhibit poor germination, because of hard seed coat, resulting on poor and uneven plant stand. The seed germination in such seeds can be hastened by softening the seed coat through physical and chemical treatments with sulphuric acid as well as sand paper scarification. Hot water and treatment with high-low shade conditions, mechanical scarification resulted in better germination as compared to unscarified seeds. In sulphuric acid treatment 80% seeds germinated in Cassia auriculata Linn. and 88% seeds were germinated in Cassia tora Linn. after 5 min. soaking in H₂SO₄, In another experiment seeds of both the spices were given hot water treatment 80°C for 10 min. which were found very effective to enhance the germination of seeds. The experiments were conducted on both the spices in low shade & high shade conditions and seeds germinated with soil and without soil. Germination was signifficantly higher in high shade and with soil condition after 48h of soaking the seeds at room temp. Clean seeds recorded slightly higher germination percentage as compare to unclean seeds in several species of Cassia species. The study proved that seed treatments are necessary to overcome dormancy in Cassia seeds.

4 tables, 12 ref

016120   Khan M R (Botany Dep, Poon College, Pune-411 001) : Effect of various scarification treatments on germinability of ailanthus excelsa Roxb. a medicinal plant of Western Maharashtra. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 145-8.

Effect of mechanical and chemical scarification's in reducing seed dormancy of Ailanthus excelsa Roxb., was found to be most effective method for breaking seed dormancy, followed by wet seed treatment for 5-10 minutes and treatment with dilute N/l0 and N120 H₂SO₄ for 8 - 24 h. Cold stratification Pre-treatment of seeds at S°C for 90 days shows better germination percentage. Light, temperature, and humidity also played important role in seed germination and enhanced germination percentage significantly up to 70%. The seed treatment with 70% alcohol for varying time periods gave negative results as compared with control.

4 tables, 15 ref

016119   Khan M R (Botany Dep, Poona College, University of Poona, Pune-411 001) : Effect of sulphur dioxide toxicity on seed germination of Alstonia scholaris R. Br. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 115-16.

Alstonia scholaris R. Br. is a traditionally important medicinal plant. The plant is used traditional ayurvedic, unani, Homeopathic medicine system against different ailments. In the present study, toxic effects of SO₂ on seed germination were determined. The seeds were pre soaked in distell water and treated with respective doses of SO₂ 0.25, 0.50 and 1.00 ppm because SO₂ is acidic pollutant and when it comes in contact of cotyledons it damage the enzymes and reduces the germination percentage. SO₂ is a major phytotoxic pollutant which enters in to the seeds and causes chronic injuries as well as decrease the total germination percentage. The effect of SO₂ on seed germination have been discussed by several workers. Exposure of seed SO₂ had no significant effect. However, seed germination was significantly reduced may be due to the SO₂ exposure inflicted heavy damage to proteins in the cells, which may damage the enzyme activity also. Earlier studies reported that SO₂ is responsible for destruction of proteins. Furthermore it can be concluded that reduction in protein contents in caused by SO₂ (Asada et al., 1987). In the present study the effort has been made to understand the effect of SO₂ on germination of Alstonia scholaris R. Br. seeds.

1 table, 9 ref

016118   Kaushik P;Pal P (Botany and MicrobiologyDep, Gurukul Kangri Vishwavidyalaya, Hardwar-249 404, Email: purshotam.kaushik@gmail.com) : Isolation f mycorrhizal fungi from roots of Rhynchostylis retusa blume (Orchidaceae) from Dehradun. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 137-9.

This paper describes the isolation, characterization and morphometry of m corrhizal fungus Rhizoctonia solani isolated from clinging roots of epiphytic orchid Rhynchostylis retusa Blume. The same orchid roots were also found to harbour Trichoderma viride which has been characterized and described here.

1 illus, 1 table, 27 ref

016117   Kashid J K;Kanade M B;Jelave A B;Deokule S S; Chavan S J (Post-Graduate Research Centre, Botany Dep, Tuljaram Chaturchand College, Baramati, Dist. Pune-413 102, Email: jayramkashidpatil@rediffmail.com) : Antimicrobial Screening of Hornworts (Anthocerotaceae) from Western Ghats of Maharashtra. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 53-6.

Antimicrobial screening of hornworts Folioceros khandalensis Bhardw. and Notothylas indica Kash. from Western Ghats of Maharashtra, has been reported. Extracts were prepared with organic solvents like acetone, ethanol, petroleum ether and distilled water. They were examined for inhibitory activities against each of the four of fungal and bacterial strains selected viz." Aspergillus niger (NCIM 507), Fusarium moniliformae (NCIM 1276), Fusarium oxysporum (NCIM 1072), Rhizopus stoloniftr (NCIM 1139), Bacillus substilis (NCIM 2697), Escherichia coli (NCIM 2067), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (NCIM 2200), Staphylococcus au reus (NCIM 2492). Antimicrobial activity was assessed by applying filter paper 'disc diffusion assay' method. F khandalensis Bhardw. as well as N. indica Kash. acetone extracts showed maximum antifungal activity against A. niger and antibacterial activity against S. aureus.

2 tables, 26 ref

016116   Karthick B;Williams D M (The Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: diatomist@gmail.com) : The international code for nomenclature for algae, fungi and plants-a significant rewrite of the international code of botanical nomenclature. Curr Sci 2012, 102(4), 551-2.

5 ref

016115   Karki K B;Paudel S;Joshi S D (Central Botany Dep, Tribhuvan University, Kritipur, Kathmandu, Nepal, Email: kkarki2000@gmail.com) : In vitro mass propagation of Scoparia dulcis L. through nodal segments. Adv Life Sci 2013, 2(1), 15-18.

Scopari ducis L., one of the highly medicinal plant found in tropical and subtropicalregion. Locallyitis calledas "chinijhar" or "mithajhar". An effective protocol was established for mass propagaton of Scoparia dulcis (Family: Scrophulariaceae). The main phytochemicals studied are scopadulcic acids A and B, scopadiol, scopadulciol, scopadulin, scoparic acids A, B, and C, and betulinic acid. An antidiabetic compound, `amellin' has been reported in leaf and stem of the fresh green plant. Nodal explants were used for the in vitro mass propagation of this plant and the best result for regeneration of shoot was found 8.25 in MS medium supplemented with 1mg/l BAP and so, BAP is the best phytohormone for the regeneration of shoot than the combination with auxin. Similarly, the best result for induction of roots from shoots were found 7.25 in « concentration of MS medium supplemented with 0.5mg/l IBA and 12.50 in MS medium supplemented with 0.75mg/l IBA. So, IBA alone is the best phytohormone for the regeneration of shoots then combination with NAA. 75% rooted plantlets was successfully transferred and survived in natural environment.

016114   Kar A;Choudhary B K (Satsang Herbal Research and Analytical laboratory, , Satsang, Deoghar-814 116, Email: karbkc2006@rediffmail.com) : Lipid lowering and antioxidant activities of some hypoglycaemic medicinal plants. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 221-3.

Crude ethanolic extracts of seven antidiabetic plants (Trigonela foenum-graecum, Premna integrifolia, Ficus benghalensis, Terminalia bellirica, Tragia involucrata, Nardostachys jatamansi and Sesbania aegyptiaca) at a dose of 200mg/Kg per oral showed significant lowering on serum lipids (Total cholesterol, phospholipid and triglycerides) in triton induced hyperlipemic CF Strain rats. Next screening through antioxidant effect and Radio immuno Assay (RIA) studies, a novel lead molecule, an isoxazole (S-methyl isoxazole-3 methyl carboxylate) alkaloid was isolated - which was showing hypoglycaemic, dyslipidemic and antioxidant activities. The structure of the isolated compound was confirmed through X-ray crystallography study.

2 tables, 10 ref

016113   Kanade A M;Bhosale R S (NO, Arts, Commerce adn Science College, Narayangaon, Junnar, Pune-410 504) : Ethnomedicinal useds of plants by tribes of Junnar in Maharashtra. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 177-8.

An Ethnomedical plants survey were undertaken in Junner block of Maharashtra state during the years 2005 - 2007 revealed that 23 common plants have been used by tribes of Junnar as Ethnomedicine. Name family, local name dosage and traditional formulation of various species have been enumerated in the paper. These practices are still followed by ethnic communities of Junnar taluka like Vaidu and Thakar. Still they depend on such traditional belief which is found to be far effective hence immediate documentation of traditional knowledge and conservation of these valuable plants is required to secure it for our future generation.

1 table, 11 ref

016112   Jaruhar H B;Ajay Prasad (Botany Dep, S.P.D. College, Gharhwa-822, Email: hbjaruhar@gmail.com) : Influence of different culture media on growth and sporulation of Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht. f. sp. Lentis (Vasudeva and Srinivasan) the causal organism of wilt disease of lentil (Lens esculenta Moench.). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 275-7.

The mycelial growth and sporulation pattern of Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht. f. sp. Zentis (Vasudeva and Srinivasan) grown in five different culture media namely potato - dextrose, Czapek dox, Rawlin's, Richard's and sucrose nitrate medium were observed under two and four weeks incubation at 26 ± 2°C and pH 6.0. Potato-dextrose, Rawlin's, Czapek dox and Richard's medium produced thick and compact mat of mycelium whereas sucrose - nitrate medium showed a minimum growth effect. Potato-dextrose medium was the best for fungal mycelium accumulation followed by Richard's, Czapek dox, Rawlin's medium and sucrose ªnitrate medium. The macro conidial sporulation was favoured best in potato - dextrose medium both in the two and four weeks old culture followed by Czapek dox and Richard's media. In sucrose nitrate medium the macroconida were produced much lower population than potato-dextrose medium. Microconidial production was the best under the influence of Czapek dox medium followed by potato dexrose, Rawlin's and Richard's medium. The sucrose-nitrate medium was the least effective as compared to other media. The chlamydospores sporulation was the least in potato-dextrose medium equal to that found in sucrose-nitrate medium in two weeks old culture. The best chlamydospores sporulation in two weeks old culture was occurred in Rawlin's medium followed by Czapek dox. Effect of incubation period on sporulation was observed best in potato-dextrose medium followed by Richard's medium.

1 table, 8 ref

016111   Jain D S;Nandan S N (Botany Dep, Gangamai Arts, Com. and Science College, Nagaon Dist. Dhule-424 005, Email: jaindevendras@rediffmail.com) : A systematic account of Euglena and Petalomonas species from Sonvad and Devbhane Dams of Dhule. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 169-72.

Sixteen taxa of euglenineae have been reported from Sonvad dam and Devbhane dam of Dhule district of Maharashtra. Out of 16 taxa of euglenoids 15 species of Euglena, and 01 species of Petalomonas have been reported for the first time. The species of Euglena were dominant as compared to other taxa of euglenoids.

9 ref

016110   Jagtap M D;Ghodake S D;Kashid J K;Kanade M B (Post Graduate Research Centre, Botany Dep, Tuljaram Chaturchand College, Baramati-413 102) : Antifungal properties of commonly used spices. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 37-9.

Aqueous, ethanol, methanol and acetone extracts of commonly used spices viz., Eugenia caryophyllata Lamk. (Clove), Piper nigrum 1. (Miri), Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume. (Dalchini), Zingiber officinalis 1. (Sunth) and Cuminum cyminum 1. (Shahjire) were examined for antifungal properties. For this commonly occurred fungal Oora in our area viz., Aspergillus sp., Rhizopus sp., Mucor sp., Penicillium sp. and Fusarium sp. were used. The test fungi were grown on potato dextrose agar medium and activity was checked by disc diffusion assay method. All extracts of clove showed antifungal activity against all test fungi except Mucor sp. On the other hand, extract of Cinnamomum never find any antifungal activity. In case of piper only ethanol and methanol extracts were effective against Apsergillus sp., Fusarium sp. and Penicillium sp. In general, due to very fast growth of Mucor and Rhizopusthey cannot respond the experimentation. However, the antifungal activity against Aspergillus and Fusarium is remarkable.

1 table, 12 ref

016109   Iyer M;Nagendra H;Rajani M B (NO, , D-804, Chartered Beverly Hills, Gubbalalal, Subra-manyapura Post, Uttarahalli, Bangalore-560 061, Email: meera70@gmail.com) : Using satellite imagery and historical maps to study the original contours of Lalbagh Botanical garden. Curr Sci 2012, 102(3), 507-9.

4 illus, 5 ref

016108   Ishtiaq M;Iqbal P;Hussain T (Botany Dep, Mirpur University of Science & Technology (MUST), Bhimber Campus, Bhimber Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, Email: drishtiaqajk@gmail.com) : Ethnobotanical uses of Gymnosperms of Neelam valley and Muzaffarabad of Kashmir. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(3), 404-10.

Present Ethnobotanical study was carried out during summer 2008 in spatial and temporal areas of Neelum valley and Muzaffarabad of Kashmir. Research revealed Ethnobotanical data that twelve Gymnosperm species are being employed in different ethnomedicines, food, fodder, shelter and other domestic purposes. A total of 65 people of both gender (age: 45-80 yrs) were interviewed using qustioaniaree, direct participant observation and demonstration technique method. A comprehensive Ethnobotanical profile of the plants comprised of: botanic names, vernacular names, family, distribution, occurrence, economic benefits, ethnomedicinal uses, preparation and administration modes. All information was compared with previous literature concurrently eliminating irrational reports and culminating this knowledge into plausible and applicable format. The inhabitants of the area used the plants for multi-purpose and have for a long time been dependent on surrounding plant resources for life subsistence. Pinus roxburgii Sarg., P. wallichiana A. B. Jacks., Cedrus deodara [(Roxb. ex Lamb.)G.Don], Abies pindrow [(Royle. Ex D.Don) Royle] and Taxus wallichiana Zucc. are prominent gymnosperms of Neelum valley and Muzaffarabad which are not only source of timber but also utilized as fuel wood and for medicinal purposes. Due to biotic an abiotic pressure different threats to the flora have been highlighted and suggestions for conservation of Gymnosperm taxa are formulated for implementations by relevant departments.

2 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

016107   Irangani M K L;Shiratake Y (The United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Kagoshima University, Korimoto 1-21-24, Kagoshima, 890-8580, Japan, Email: iranganimkl@yahoo.com ) : Indigenous techniques used in rice cultivation in Sri Lanka: An analysis from an agricultural history perspective. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 638-50.

This study attempted to identify indigenous techniques in rice farming with aim of understanding the sustainable principles of these techniques that can be adopted to overcome the problems in modern agriculture. The data for the analysis were obtained through interviews with farmers and key informants, focus group discussions, and field observations carried out in a historically important rice-growing area, the Padaviya Irrigation System area, from June to October 2012. The survey of farmers covered 60 farmers scattered throughout the area. The farmers were selected by employing purposive sampling method in order to capture the farmers, who have experience with indigenous techniques. The results indicated that the indigenous techniques in rice farming corresponded to the natural features of the region, including the rainfall patterns, soil conditions, temperature, and humidity. The techniques are entirely dependent on local resources, which are recognized based on the historical experiences of the local population. Cultivation based on rainfall patterns and the lunar calendar and adopted techniques in soil fertility management, seed selection, seed treatment, water management, and pest and disease control techniques provide highly sustainable method as alternatives to the modern high external input-based techniques. Indeed, decision making based on rainfall patterns and the lunar calendar avoids possible risk in rice farming. These techniques are not harmful to the environment and thus can maintain the long-term production sustainability of rice farming. This study indicates the importance of taking into account the historical experience and knowledge of the local population in the revitalization of the rice sector in Sri Lanka.

1 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

016106   Gupta U;Solanki H (Botany Dep, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Email: urvi8198gmail.com) : Herbal folk remedies used in treatment of gynecological disorders by tribals of Simalwara region, Dungarpur, Rajasthan. Int J pure appl Sci Technol 2013, 17(1), 100-7.

Ethnic communities living in formidable agro-climatic situations are well acquainted with natural resources and their sustainable management from time immemorial. The uneven topographic situation compels them to conduct a number of trial and error practices with nature and thereby the communities developed numerous locally suited the best practices and technologies. Owing to the significance of traditional knowledge and their sustainable utilization, a study was conducted during 2011-12 years in Simalwara region of Dungarpur district, Rajasthan state to investigate ethno-medicinal knowledge on the treatment of gynecological disorders. The study explored 27 species under 27 genera and 21 families which have been used as major ingredients for treatment of said ailments. The study also documented various plant ingredients being used for medication and significantly floral parts contributed the highest share with 25.71 37 where the least was recorded from twig and latex with 2.86 37 each in the total part used.

9 illus, 12 ref

016105   Gopale K D;Zunjarrao R S (Post Graduate Research Center, Botany Dep, Modern College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Shivajinagar, Pune-411 005) : In vitro culture of Jatropha curcas L: a biofuel plant. Int J pure appl Sci Technol 2013, 16(2), 46-54.

In vitro study revealed that leaf disc was the best explants for micropropagation through direct induction of adventitious shoots when cultured on Murashige and Skoog's (MS) medium supplemented with thidiazuron (TDZ) (2.27 μM), 6-benzylaminopurine (BA) (2.22 μM) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) (0.49 μM). The presence of TDZ in the induction medium has greater influence on the induction of adventitious shoot buds, whereas BA in the absence of TDZ promoted callus induction rather than shoot buds. Induced shoot buds were multiplied and elongated into shoots following transfer to the MS medium supplemented with BA (4.44 μM), kinetin (Kn) (2.33 μM), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) (1.43 μM) and gibberellic acid (GA3) (0.72 μM). Well-developed shoots were rooted on half strength MS medium supplemented with IBA (0.5 μM) after 30 days. Regenerated plants after two months of acclimatization were successfully

3 tables, 36 ref

016104   Gehlot P (Botany Dep, Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati University, Amjer-305 001) : Medicinal and nutritional value of some semi-arid and arid zone plants of Rajasthan. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 217-19.

In different regions of Ajmer (semi-arid) and Jodhpur (arid) Rajasthan, a survey of medicinal and nutritional value of plants which are used in the treatment of various diseases has been carried out. In the present paper deals the medicinal and nutritional of 15 plants used by rural of Rajasthan is discussed. The data collected is presented with binomial name, local names, plant parts used and method of administration of medical application for various diseases.

1 table, 7 ref