016103   Gehlot P (Botany Dep, Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati University, Ajmer-305 001) : Influence of base analogues on growth and enzyme activities in Vigna mungo L. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 111-13.

Interesting alteration in growth, differentiation patterns and enzymology of ten days old seedlings of Vigna mungo L. raised from seeds treated with two base analogues, hypoxanthine (HX) and 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) have been observed. Root, shoot and chlorophyll variants have been screened from the base analogues treated seedlings. Apart from morphological variations base analogues also included quantitative variables in the activities of peroxidase, amylase and nitrate reductase enzymes.

2 tables, 8 ref

016102   Gaykar B M;Suryavanshi S S;Kulkarni A A (Post Graduate Botany Dep, Ahmednagar College, Ahmednagar-414 001, Email: balasahebgaykar4@gmal.com) : Additions to flora of Ahmednagar district. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 167-8.

Some additional plant species to the flora of Ahmednagar District have been described here, Indigofera coerulea is a rare species found at one location only. Species of Ipomoea were in the wild terrestrial habitat while other six species were grown at different localities of the district. Kigelia africana was observed nearby areas of Ahmednagar city grown in gardens.

7 ref

016101   Gaikwad S P;Gore R D;Garad K U (Life Sciences Research Laboratory, Walchand College of Arts and Science, Solapur, Email: garadku@gmail.com) : Additions to the flora of Marathwada region of Maharashtra, India. J Threatened Taxa 2012, 4(4), 2515-23.

^ssc18 ref

016100   Gaikwad R;Khan S J (Botany Dep, The Institute of Science, Mumbai-32, Email: rupaligaikwad27@yahoo.co.in) : Phytoemediation of heavy metals from soil using Brassica juncea L. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 41-3.

Deals with phytoremediation of heavy metals from contaminated soils using Brassica juncea L., an easy and fast to grow hyperaccumulator of several toxic metals. In the present study it was observed that B. juncea accumulated maximum quantity of Zn (1.85 mg/ml) followed by Cu (0.76 mg/ml), Ni (0.46 mg/ml), and Cd (0.38 mg/ml) after 30 days of growth. Similar trend was observed after 15 days growth also, except for greater Cd accumulation over Ni.

4 illus, 9 ref

016099   Gaidhani S N;Singh A;Suman Kumari;Lavekar G S;Juvekar A S;Sen S;Padhi M M (Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, , 61-65, Institutional area, Opposite `D' Block, Janakpuri, New delhi, Email: sudeshgaidhani@gmail.com) : Evaluation of some plant extracts for standardization and anticancer activity. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 682-7.

Medicinal plants such as Sthauneyaka (Taxus baccata L.) and compound formulations like Triphala ghrita, Khadirarista, Madhusnuhi rasayana, Maha triphaladya ghrita, Panchatikta guggulu ghrita are indicated in the Ayurvedic texts for management of cancer/ tumour. The anti-proliferative activities of hydro-alcoholic extracts of some standardized plant materials were screened against a panel of 14 human cancer cell lines representing different tissues (lung, pancreas, colon, cervix, oral, bladder, prostate, breast, leukaemia, etc.) through Sulforhodamine-B (SRB) assay. The findings revealed that Cedrus deodara (Roxb.) ex Lamb. and Berberis aristata(Roxb.) ex DC. have maximum anticancer activity against 3 cell lines while Withania somnifera Dunal. showed activity against two cell lines. In addition to these, Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth. and Piper longum L. were found active against only one cell line. These results indicate the potential of Ayurvedic medicinal herbs as anti-neoplastic agents mentioned in the Ayurvedic texts. However, further studies are needed for evaluating their mechanism of action and to isolate the active anticancer compounds responsible for this activity.

4 tables, 18 ref

016098   Duraisamy R;Rajendran A (Botany Dep, Thiru. Vi. Ka. Govt Arts College, Tiruvarur-610 003) : Phyto veterinary medicines of Tiruvarur district, Tamil Nadu. J Ecotoxic envir Monit 2011, 21(3-4), 325-30.

The study highlights the little known therapeutic information collected on veterinary medicines in remote villages of Tiruvarur district. Forty medicinal plants were used by folk population to cure ailments of hoof rot, sour neck, dysentery, diarrhoea, wounds, 'Simla disease' and inflammation common in the domestic animals of goat, bullock, buffalo and horse. The plants Karuvaelam; Poolai poo, Karum Poola, Yerukku, Biraayan, Kadiccha kai, Indian aloe, Thazhu thaazhai etc; have been botanically identified and their ecological xerophytic status has been presented.

1 table, 16 ref

016097   Chinelo A O;Temilola A F;Abubakar T M;Jamal K M;Habibu A S (Chemistry Advanced Laboratory , Sheda Science and Technlogy Complex, , Garki, Abuja, Nigeria) : Comparative chemical constituents of some desert fruits in Northern Nigeria. Archiv appl Sci Res 2012, 4(2), 1061-4.

Aqueous extract of the fruits of Borassus aethiopum, Borassus flabellifer, Balanite aegyptiaca, Phoenix dactylifera and Tamarindus indica were subjected to preliminary screening for chemical constituents using generally accepted laboratory technique for qualitative phytochemical screening. The constituents screened for were tannins, saponins, phlobotannins, terpenoids, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides,glycosides,phenol, anthracene, free-anthraquinone, carotenoids, steroid, reducing compounds and alkaloids. The distribution of these constituents were assessed and compared. All the plant specimen were found to contain saponin, flavonoids, reducing compound, terpenoids, alkaloids and free-anthraquinone. Phlobotannin, carotenoids, anthracene and glycoside was absent in all the plant specimen. All the plant specimen seem to potential as a source of useful drugs.

10 ref

016096   Chavre Bhagwat W (Botany Dep, Maratha Vidya Prasarak Samajs, Arts, Commerce and Science College, Nan, , Email: chavrebhagwat@gmail.com ) : Traditionally used botanicals of family cucurbitaceae from Osmanabad district of Maharashtra. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 269-71.

Focuses on some traditionally used forest plants belonging to family cucurbitaceae in Osmanabad district of Mahaiashtra. The local people including villagers, forest dwellers and various communities residing in the hilly parts of the district highly depend on the local vegetation for the purpose of food, fodder and medicine. Author visited such regions of Osmanabad district and collected information of traditionally used plants belonging to family cucurbitaceae. Some important plants studied are Citrullus colocynthis, Coccinia grandis, Corallocarpus epigaeus, Cucumis callosus, Melothria maderaspatana, Momordica dioica etc. Some of the plants are found grown wildly and some are cultivated by local people. These plants are used to cure various skin diseases, antidote for snake bite and scorpion bite, fever, ulcer, asthma, jaundice etc. These plants are enumerated alphabetically each reflecting the information of botanical name, local name, Morphology, parts used and its ethnobotanicalJethnomedicinal use.

4 ref

016095   Chandraskasan L;Neelamegam R (Botany and Research Centre Dep, S.T. Hindu College, Nagercoil-629 002, Email: mmegamsthcngl@gmail.com) : GC-MS analysis on phytocomponents of Loranthus longiflorus Desr. (A Hemi-Parasite) leaf collected from two host trees. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 205-9.

In the present study, the chemical components of the ethanol extract of Loran thus longiflorus Desr., a hemi-parasite, leaf samples collected from two host trees - Casuarina equisetifolia and Ficus religiosa were investigated by using GC-MS. The GC-MS analysis revealed that L. longiflorus leaf ethanol extracts contain mainly about 67.98% and 85.80% of Propane, 1, I-diethoxy- (an ether compound) in the leaf samples collected from C. equisetifolia and F. religiosa, respectively. In addition, four compounds were identified in the leaf sample of L. longiflorus collected from C. equisetifolia while the leaf samples from F. religiosa host trees contain 5 compounds.

4 illus, 4 tables, 10 ref

016094   Borgohain M P (Botany Dep, Moran College, Moranhat-785 670, Sivasagar, Assam) : Traditional knowledge of herbal treatment among Tai Phake people of upper Assam. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 191-3.

Importance of medicinal plants for ailment of different diseases is most popular among the Tai phake people of uppar Assam. The use of medicinal plants for prevention of diseases has performed by specialised man called Mo-Ya-Tai or Chow-Mo or Moya Tai or Sara. The Tai phake people collect their required plants either from forest or from kitchen garden. This paper represents only 27 plants which are traditionally used for herbal treatment among the Phakial tribe.

1 table, 12 ref

016093   Borde M;Dudhane M;Jite P (Botany Dep, University of Pune, Pune-411 007, Email: paramjit.jite@gmail.com) : Potential role of AM fungi in protecting the bajra (Pennisetum glaucum) plants under drought stress condition. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 261-7.

The study deals with beneficial effect of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza on growth performance, antioxidant and non-antioxidant defensive mechanism system of bajra plants under drought stress condition. The study also deals with the water absorption by mycorrhizal plants and change in soil fertility under drought stress condition. Under drought stress condition Arbuscular Mycorrhiza increased the growth of bajra plants in terms of increase biomass. Total chlorophyll content was 80% and 120% increment in mycorrhizal drought stressed bajra plants after 15 days 30 days of drought period. Mycorrhizal fungi help by enhancing photosynthetic ability of bajra plants which leads to increase in growth of bajra plants under drought stress. AM fungi increase the antioxidant defense system as well as More Proline accumulation in roots of mycorrhizal plants leads to more osmotic adjustment under drought stress. Increase in phosphatase activity enhances the phosphate uptake of mycorrhizal bajra pfants under drought stress. Arbuscular Mycorrhiza secretes the glycoprotein i.e., Glomalin it increase the water holding capacity and fertility of soil under drought stress condition.

3 illus, 45 ref

016092   Bhosale A M;Patil V P (Botany Dep, P.V.P. College, Pravaranagar (Loni) Tal- Rahata, Dist.-Ahmednagar-413 713) : Effect of Azospirillum spp. Formulations on wheat productivity (Triticum aestivum L.). Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 31-3.

Bacteria of the genus Azospirillum have been isolated from soil of 10 villages of Shrirampur Tehsil, Dist. Ahmednagar. Total 10 different strains of Azospirillum were isolated from the study area 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 individually.

8 ref

016091   Bhagya Lakshmi O;Sandhya K;Karsha P V (Botany Dep, Sarojini Naidu Vanita Maha Vidyalaya, Exhibition Grounds, M.J. Road, N, , Email: bloruganti@yahoo.com) : In-vitro studies on antimicrobial activity of Piper betel Linn. leaf. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 257-60.

To assess the antimicrobial activity of Piper betelleaf extract on selective bacterial and fungal strains' under In-vitro conditions. In the present study chloroform and methanol extracts of Piper betel were screened for antimicrobial properties against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial and fungal species. The extracts of Piper betel were studied for antibacterial activity by disc diffusion method. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) was determined by double dilution method and also time killing kinetics were studied. Methanol extract showed maximum zone of inhibition of 19 mm against Klebsiella pneumoniae. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) was ranged between 0.625 mg to 5 mg/ml in both the extracts. Time course of lethal action showed effective results. In antifungal activity chloroform extract showed maximum zone of inhibition of 36.3 mm against Fusarium oxysporum.

2 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

016090   Backor M;Ivanova V;Laatsch H;Lokajova V; Backorova M (NO, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Safarik University, Faculty of Scien, Manesova 23, 04167 Kosice, Slovak Republic, Email: martbackor@yahoo.ca) : Allelopathic effects of lichen secondary metabolites on lichen photobiont Trebouxia erici. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 189-98.

Atranorin, gyrophoric acid and parietin were isolated from the lichens: Psudevernia furfuracea, Umbilicaria hirsuta and Xanthoria parietina to compare their phytotoxicity on cultures of aposymbiotically grown lichen photobiont Trebouxia erici. The cortical didepside atranorin had strong phytotoxic effects on the photobiont cells. Application of atranorin at the highest dose (0.1mg/disk) decreased the growth of photobiont cells and altered the composition of assimilation pigments (decreased chlorophyll a content, its fluorescence and increased its phaeophytinization).Atranorin also induced the formation of reactive oxygen species, hydrogen peroxide and superoxide. Atranorin as cortical lichen compound, may be in direct contact with the photobiont cells forming layer in lichens with a stratified thallus. Thus it appears that atranorin may be functioning as an allelochemical, controlling the cell division of algal partner inside the thallus and thereby regulating the balance between the symbionts. However, phytotoxicity of tridepside gyrophoric acid and anthraquinone parietin on the photobiont cells was not observed at the tested concentrations used in this study.

3 illus, 5 tables, 18 ref

016089   Awasthi S;Rishi V (Botany Dep, Brahmanand P. G College, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh) : Study on the influence of fly ash on heterotrophic activities of micro-organisms in different soils of Kanpur. Adv Life Sci 2013, 2(1), 34-7.

Study was conducted to investigate the influence of fly ash on heterotrophic activities of micro-organisms in two different soils-A sandy loam alluvial soil and an acidic soil. During this study carbon dioxide evolution was chosen as an indicator ofsoil microbial activities. It was also undertaken to evaluate the effect of fly ash incorporation to soil on soilmicroflora with special reference to fIXation and cycling of nitrogen. The incorporation of fly ash into both kind of soils (sandy loam alluvial soil and acid soil) may improves soil property. It enhances the trace metal content when soil has a poor content of such elements. It also affects the pattern of carbon dioxide evolution.

016088   Arya K R;Khatoon S;Brijesh Kumar (Botany Div, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226 001, Email: aryakr@rediffmail.com) : Development of quality control markers for Ulmus wallichiana Planchon: An Indian traditional plant for osteogenic activity. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 664-9.

Ulmus wallichiana Planchon, is an Indian folk traditional plant used for the treatment of fractured bones in folklore tradition of Uttarakhand Himalaya, India. During chemical investigations, three major compounds, Ulmoside A & B, and Naringenin-6-C-β-D glucopyranosideis for osteogenic activity have been isolated from bark of this plant species. This paper presents macro and microscopic study, physicochemical parameters and chemo-profiling of stem bark of U. wallichiana through Q TOF HRMS for development of quality control markers and identification of crude samples. Transverse section (TS) stem bark and powder microscopy shows crushed rhytidoma consisting plenty of mucilaginous canals followed by crushed cork, cells of the cork filled with dark brown content. Whereas, authenticity and quality of raw materials can be determinate with exact calculated mass value of marker compounds for osteogenic activity at 467, 451 and 435 using Q TOF HRMS technique. Ursolic acid, β-sitosterol and lupeol at Rf value 0.25, 0.36 and 0.44 has also identified as HPTLC marker for identification and authentication of crude drug samples of stem bark of U. wallichiana.

5 illus, 18 ref

016087   Aron S;Bose N;Maria Francis Jeffrey; Mehalingam P (Research Botany Dep, VHN Senthikumara Nadar College (Autonomous), Virudhunagar-626 001, Email: mehalingamp@yahoo.co.in) : Pharmacognostic evaluation of stem, leaves and roots of Merremiat ridentata (L.) Hallier f.. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 693-8.

Pharmacognostic investigation of leaf, stem and root of Merremia tridentate (L.) Hallier. f. was carried out to determine its macromorphological, micromorphological, and chemomicromorphological profiles. The anatomy of the leaf reveals that collateral vascular bundles, paracytic type of stomata, peltate type of glandular trichomes and druses calcium oxalates are seen on the epidermis of the lamina. The stem shows the presence of bicollateral vascular cylinder, it consists of a few wide, circular or angular vessels and xylem fibres. The root shows the presence of secondary phloem which is not distinct from the cortex. The phloem rays are narrow and straight. Secondary xylem includes vessels, fibres and xylem rays. Preliminary phytochemical analysis and HPTLC analysis was done along with fluorescence characteristics, extractive values, quantitative estimation of ash values, acid insoluble ash, and water soluble ash which may serve as useful indices for the correct identification of the powdered drug. Calcium oxalate crystals are abundant in the leaf and roots. This observation would be immense value in the botanical identification and standardization of the drug in the crude form. This study would be useful evidences for further investigations of this medicinal plant.

1 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

016086   Aher S K (Botany Dep, New Arts, Commerce and Science College, Parner, Dist. Ahmednagar-414 302, Email: dr.skaher@yahoo.com) : Diversity and concentration of airborne fungi in the poultry shed environment. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 33-6.

Airspora of the indoor environment of poultry shed was investigated by using volumetric continuous Tilak air sampler as well as culture plate method. Altogether 83 fungal genera were identified; of which 50 genera were representative of Deuteromycotina, 16 genera of Ascomycotina, 2 of Basidiomycotina, 8 or Zygomycotina and 1 of Myxomycotina. Deuteromycotina was the most dominant to the total airspora. It was observed that the percentage contribution of the individual fungal genera were different. Cladosporium was found the most frequent genus to the total aeromycoflora followed by Ascotricha, Claviceps, Emericella, Curvularia, Aspergillus, Mucor and Rhizopus. Aspergillus causing disease to the poultry birds and Cladosporium, Mucor, Rhizopus, Aspergillus, Alternaria allergic to workers of the poultry shed were reported. The results provide data of the diversity and concentration of airborne fungi in poultry shed to evaluate their harm on occupation. Systematic classification of airborn fungi provide scientific base for the early warning ad controlling methods of avian diseases cfaused by fungi.

1 illus, 1 table, 42 ref

016085   Agarwal Nidhi;Sharma S (Food Science and Nutrition, Banasthali University, PO - Banasthali Vidyapith-304 022, Email: agarwalnidhi86@gmail.com) : Garden cress (Lepidium sativum L.) - A non conventional traditional plant item for food product. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2013, 12(4), 699-706.

Garden cress (Lepidium sativum L.), is a traditional plant that has been relegated to the margins on account of its off-beat to pungent odour and presence of antinutrients despite a high density of nutrients and bioactive substances in its seeds and other plant parts. In the present study, garden cress seeds were quantitatively analyzed as whole (WGCSP), husk removed (HRGCSP), husk (HGCSP), roasted (RGCSP) and microwave processed (MPGCSP) forms, for proximate principles, selected minerals, and phenol content. Thereafter, a representative food product was developed in various versions incorporating each type of powders and evaluated for acceptability characteristic. The results revealed that all forms of garden cress seeds were good sources of macro (protein and fat) as well as micro (iron, calcium and phosphorous) nutrients. Processing is improved acceptability by denting anti-nutrients and off flavor components. All versions of Mathri - the product developed were found moderately to highly acceptable. The product versions developed from all types of powders made the product rich in nutrients including energy, protein, iron, calcium and phosphorous along with antioxidants making it value added to treat various diseases, including protein energy malnutrition, anemia, diabetes mellitus, hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

6 tables, 40 ref

016084   Abu-Dieyeh M H;AL-Abeid H;Qnais E Y (Biology and Biotechnology Dep, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 15049, Zarqa 13115 Jordan, Email: dandelion@hu.edu.jo) : Does allelopathy incresase the invasion of diplotaxis erucoides in distrubed arid land?. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(1), 91-104.

Diplotaxis erucoides has invaded the arid land in Zarqa, Jordan. A field study indicated a gradual and significant increase in D. erucoides accompanied with significant decrease in E. sativa and other weed species. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of D. erucoides caused significant decrease in seed germination of E. sativa, Sonchus oleraceus, Tragopogon coelesyriacus, Launea nudicaulis, Salsola baryosma and Taraxacum officinale. Laboratory experiments showed that foliage and root aqueous extracts of D. erucoides at 6 mg ml^-1 and 5 mg ml^-1 concentrations respectively decreased the seed germination of E. sativa. Similarly ethanolic extracts of D. erucoides reduced the germination of E. sativa seeds at lower concentrations of 3 mg ml^-1 and 2 mg ml^-1 of foliage and roots, respectively. Reciprocal allelopathic effects of aqueous extracts of D. erucoides and E. sativa were significant. Autotoxicity of foliage aqueous extract was also significant on the germination of D.erucoides seeds. Soil amended with full strength or 1:1 diluted solutions of leaf leachates of D. erucoides decresed the shoot growth of E. sativa seedlings. The inhibitory effects were similar in autoclaved or not autoclaved soils. These field and laboratory results indicated that D. erucoides use its allelopathic activity to shift the balance of competition in its favour and consequently it dominated the dry land habitat.

3 illus, 54 ref

016083    (Botany Dep, J.D.B. Giris, P.G. College, Kota, Rajasthan, Email: drajohri@rediffmail.com) : Epidermal characters of some ornamental plants used to traditional medicine. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(1), 153-5.

Investigation deals with a detailed account on leaf epidermal studies of seven ornamental plant types. These are Althaea rosea, Pongamia pinnata, Peltophorum pterocarpum, Basella alba, Lagerstroemia speciosa, Lawsonia inermis and Calendula officinalis. Different parts of these ornamental plants are used for medicinal purpose in Ayurvedic system of medicine. Type of stomata, size, frequancies, stomatal indices and epidermal hair on leaf surface have been determined. Stomata of Althaea rosea are mainly anisocytic, Peltophorum pterocarpum and Lagerstroemia speciosa are Anomocytic, Pongamia pinnata and Basella alba are paracytic type. Lawsonia inermis have mainly anomocytic along with staurocytic and anisocytic type and Calendula officinalis have tetracytic type of stomata. These characters have taxonomic significance and proper identification of ornamental plants.

1 table, 18 ref

015218   Thomas M;Varghese A;Rajani Rajan;Abraham Samuel K;Kurian P (NO, Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences, Velloor P.O, Kottayam-686 501, Email: doctorfunggus@rediffmail.com) : Checklist of microfungi in Kerala, India. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2011, 13(4), 651-8.

An attempt to prepare a checklist of microfungi in Kerala, India was undertaken. A total of 79 genera representing 169 species of fungi, comprising 42 families were reported from Kerala. The checklist is based on the available published literature.

1 table, 40 ref

015217   Tangjang S;Namsa N D (Botany Dep, Rajiv Gandhi Univ, Rono Hills, Doimukh, Itanagar-791 112, Email: sumpam@gmail.com) : Opium threat in the eastern Himalayan zone of Arunachal Pradesh, North East India. Curr Sci 2012, 102(7), 957-8.

^ssc1 table, 12 ref

015216   Singh R K;Diwakar P G (Botanical Survey of India, Western Regional Centre, 7, Koregaon Road, Pune-411 001) : Canscora devendrae (Gentianaceae)-a new species from Western Ghats, India. Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 249-52.

A new species, Canscora devendrae, allied to Canscora sanjappae Diwakar and R. Kr. Singh, from Western Ghats, India is described and illustrated.

2 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

015215   Singh R K (Botanical Survey of India, Western Regional Centre, 7, Koregaon Road, Pune-411 001) : Zingiber diwakarianum (Zingiberaceae)- a new species from North Western Ghats, India. Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 245-8.

A new species, Zingiber diwakarianum, allied to Z. neesanum (J. Graham) Ramamoorthy, from North Western Ghats, India is described and illustrated.

1 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

015214   Singh K P;Swarnalatha G;Singh S B (Botanical Survey of India, Cenral Regional Centre, Allahabad-211 002) : New records of Genus graphis (lichenized fungi) from India. Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 243-4.

The paper deals with 4 taxa viz. Graphis cycasicola A.W.Archer & Elix, G. farinulenta Mull.Arg., G. japonica (Mull.Arg.) A.W.Archer & Lucking and G kousyuensis (Horik. & M.Nakan.) Lucking as new records for Indian lichen flora.

2 illus, 3 ref

015213   Shubha;Pratibha K Y;Manjula A C (Botany Dep, Government First Grade College, Vijaynagar, Bangalore, Karnataka, Email: ashurajkashi@yahoo.com) : Growth, antioxidant and NOK content analysis of compost, biofertilizers treated medicinal plant, Alternanthera sessilis. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2013, 15(1), 43-6.

Alternanthera sessilis belonging to Amaranthaceae is used as a green vegetable and medicine to eye problems in South India and hence the study was focused on the qualitative and quantitative improvement of growth, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium content and antioxidant properties of the plant using biofertilizers and composts. 30 days old fifteen inches stem cuttings were treated with Azospirillum (T₁)- a free living nitrogen fixer, Bacillus megaterium (T₂) - a phosphate solubiliser, Vermicompost (T₃), Farm Yard Manure (FYM) (T₄) and a consortium of all (T₅) and compared with untreated control (C). The experiment was conducted in randomized replicate block design with 10 replicates for each treatment. At 90 days, biomass, NPK content, enzymic antioxidants like catalase and peroxidase and non-enzymic antioxidants like total carotenoids, ascorbic acid and total phenols were analysed. Statistically significant increase in the biomass and NPK content was recorded in T₄ treated plants compared to other treatments and control (C). Carotenoids, ascorbic acid content, catalase activity was also maximum in T₄ treated plants whereas T₅ treated plants recorded maximum total phenolic content and peroxidase activity. Hence, FYM is the best manure for cultivating Alternanthera sessilis which can enhance qualitative and quantitative properties of the plant.

3 tables, 14 ref

015212   Selvakumari R;Rajakumar T J S;Murugesan S; Chellaperumal N (Centre for Botanical Research, Botany Dep, St. John's College, Palayamkottai, Tirunelveli-627 002) : Endemic plants of the kudiraimozhi theri in Tuticorin district, Tamil Nadu, Southern India. Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 239-42.

The vegetation of Kudiraimozhi theri was analyzed during the years 2003- 2007. Out of 510 species 16 species were identified as endemics to South India. But only 5 plant species are given in this paper.

2 illus, 12 ref

015211   Santhosh Kumar E S;Anil John J (NO, Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute, Palode, Thiruvananthapuram-695 562) : Discovery of Pittosporum viridulum Nayar & Al. (pittosporaceae) from Kerala and a note on their undescribed flowers. Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 175-6.

Pittosporum viridulum Nayar & al., a Nigiri endemic species reported for the first time from Kerala. This species was described based on fruiting specimens collected from Kozhipalam in Nadugani forest of Tamil Nadu and their floral details are unknown yet. It is described and illustrated here based on a fresh collection to facilitate its easy identification.

1 illus, 4 ref

015210   Rekha D;Tamil Selvi S;Bharathidasan R; Panneerselvam A;Ilakkiya R;Jayapal R (PG Research Botany and Microbiology Dep, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College, Poondi, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, Email: rekhanisha25@gmail.com) : Medicinal plants used from Koothanoallur and Marakkadai, Thiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu, India. Hygeia 2013, 5(1), 164-70.

Fourty nine medicinal plant species belonging to 34 families were collected, recorded and studied. The survey aimed to identifying the plant used for the ground health of indigenous people of the study area in Koothanoallur and Marakkadai. The medicinal plants are used to treat ailments like, cough, cold, fever, headache, stomach-ache, diarrhoea, dysentery, skin diseases, poison bites, wounds, diabetes, piles and rheumatism.

015209   Rawat G S;Adhikari B S (Habitat Ecology Dep, Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand) : Saussurea hookeri C.B. Clarke (Asteraceae): a new record for Jammu and Kashmir, India. Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 189-90.

Saussurea hookeri C.B. Clarke is recorded as new to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

2 illus, 3 ref

015208   Rajani Rajan;Kurian P (NO, Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences, Vadavathoor P.O, Kottayam-686 010, Email: rajani.kuzhikandathil@1gmail.com) : PVC degrading fungi in dumping yard soil. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2011, 13(4), 609-11.

Plastics are versatile and have wide applications in every facets of human life. Among thermoplastics PVC is the most commonly used in electronics, automobile, upholstery, plumbing and flooring. Burgeoning use of plastics has now become one of the serious environmental issues as they are non-degradable. However recent attempts showed that few microorganisms like fungi have limited biodegradation potential with specific plastics in natural conditions. The diversity and load of PVC degrading fungi associated with the dumping yard soil Vadavathoor, Kottayam was evaluated using the clear-zone method. The fungal load ranges from 5.0 x102/g dry soil to 9.1 x 102/g dry soil. The predominant genera include Aspergillus, Penicillium, Chrysosporium, Cunninghamella, Mucor, Alternaria and Rhizopus. Among the isolates Aspergillus, Penicillium and Chrysosporium could readily grow on PVC powder. The ability of the fungi to produce various depolymerase enzymes such as amylase, cellulose, gelatinase, protease, ligninase and lipase were also determined. The result suggests that the biodegradation potential of the selected fungi with PVC is promising.

1 table, 21 ref

015207   Rajalakshmi S;Palanisamy M;Jayakumar V (NO, Central Agricultural Research Institute, Port Blair-744 101) : Diversity of wild legumes and associated rhizobia in the coastal regions of Andaman. Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 197-202.

The study was undertaken to uncover the diversity of root nodulating Rhizobium and associated wild legumes growing in coastal regions of Bay Islands. The exploration of coastal areas of South Andaman showed occurrence of 5 unique wild legumes and in that two viz., Vigna marina and Mucuna monosperma were found to grow in seashore areas. The earlier had abundant canopy and pods even under submergence of sea water during high tide and the second one was capable of growing in the backwater of sea. Results show that the five Rhizobum isolates associated with these wild legumes exhibit similar kind of reaction to various biochemical test with few exceptions. Among the isolates WL1 and WL12 associated with V. marina and M. monosperma, respectively showed high salt tolerance and that grew up to 1000mM NaCl in vitro, which is unique finding.

5 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

015206   Philomina N S;Pradeep Kumar S (Botany Dep, Yogi Vemana Univ, Kadapa-516 003, Email: nsphilomina@gmail.com) : Antimicrobial activity of Ixora coccinea flowers. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2011, 13(4), 605-8.

Ethanol, methanol and distilled water extracts of Ixora coccinea flowers was studied for antibacterial activities by well plate method and filter paper method. The ethanol extract was found to be more active than the methanol and distilled water extracts. The results of the study indicate that the flowers have potential antibacterial activity and are concentration dependent. The flower extract was more active against gram negative bacteria than gram positive bacteria.

2 tables, 10 ref

015205   Paul M;Radha A;Sureshkumar D (NO, Care Keralam Ltd, KINFRA Small Industries Park, Nalukettu Road, KINFRA Park P.O., Koratty-680 309, Trichur, Email: dvenu21@yahoo.com) : On the high value medicinal plant, Coleus forskohlii Briq. Hygeia 2013, 5(1), 69-78.

Gives review of literature on the medicinal value of Coleus forskohlii. Coleus forskohlii is an aromatic plant belonging to the family Lamiaceae. The roots are fasciculate, thick, succulent and contain the unique chemical forskolin. Out of the 300 species of Coleus, only Coleus forskohlii contains the diterpene forskolin. Coleus forskohlii contains abietane diterpenoids,8,13-epoxy-labd-14-en-11-one-diterpenoids,8,13-epoxy-labd -14-en-11-one-diterpene glycosides and an essential oil with bornylacetate as the major compound. Among them the most investigated compound forskolin has significant cardiovascular effects. Forskolin derivatives are used in cardiac care. Owing to the pharmaceutical value of forskolin, Coleus forskohlii is increasingly being cultivated all over India.

015204   Parast B M;Rasouli M;Manaf M;Agrawal V (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science, Malayer Univ, Malayer, Iran, Email: bmp2013@yahoo.com) : Quantification of psoralen in plant parts of Psoralea corylifolia growing in vivo and in vitro and enhancement of psoralen by organic elicitors. Analyt chem Lett 2012, 2(4), 227-34.

Psoralen were evaluated from in vivo and in vitro plant parts of Psoralea corylifolia by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The high amount of psoralen (3038 μg/g fresh weight) in in vivo condition were obtained in brown seeds. Psoralen content in plant parts growing in vitro were lower than those growing in vivo. Quantitative analysis on psoralen in callus derived from different plant parts showed that maximum psoralen (2601.8 μg/g fw) was recorded in callus derived from cotyledons. Estimation of psoralen in shoots derived from different callus were indicated high amount of psoralen (572.3 μg/g fw) in plant drivated from node callus. Identification of psoralen in the callus of Psoralea corylifolia is reported for first time. In the other section attempts were done to enhance of psoralen by some organic elicitors including; yeast extract, proline, myzo-inositol and sucrose in different medium. For the first time a comparative study of mature nodal, juvenile nodal explants and cotyledonary callus cultures were evaluated. These explants elicitated with different organic elicitor. Results revealed that maximum quantity of psoralen were present in cotyledonary callus cultures, mature and juvenile nodal cultures, respectively. Also, results indicated that there were significant variations in the psoralen content in mature nodal, juvenile nodal and cotyledonary callus cultures, when their medium supplemented with different elicitors in the wide range of concentrations. Interestingly, high amount of psoralen content (2881.9 μg/g fw.) even among all of the organic elicitors tried was found at 300 mg/l yeast extract in cotyledonary callus cultures.

2 tables, 25 ref

015203   Pangtey Y P S;Martolia G S;Tewari L M (Botany Dep, Kumaun Univ, Nainital-263 002) : On the recollection and distribution of Thelypteris tenera (Roxb. in grief.)C.V. Morton ex fraser-jenk. (family: Thelypteridaceae) in the West Himalaya. Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 217-20.

The present note reports the authentic recollection of Thelypteris tenera (Roxb. in Griff.)C.V. Morton ex Fraser-Jenk. (Family: Thelypteridaceae) from the West Himalaya after a century. A brief description is provided to facilitate its easy identification in the field along with ecological note and distribution in India and world.

1 illus, 15 ref

015202   Misra S;Nayak P K;Panda S P (NO, Regional Plant Resource Centre, Bhubaneswar-751 015) : Note on Habenaria stenopetala Lindl., an uncommon Terrestrial orchid from India. Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 181-4.

Habenaria stenopetala Lindl. (Orchidaceae) is known for its variability. Study of live materials of this species from different regions of Orissa supported this view. Morphology of this species from field observations supplemented with study of herbarium materials has been discussed in this communication.

2 illus, 13 ref

015201   Mary Kensa V;Vagitha S (Botany & Research Centre Dep, S.T. Hindu College, Nagercoli-629 002, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, Email: surejkensa@gmail.com) : Floristic study of Kadatty area, Thengamputhoor panchayat, Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu, India. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2013, 15(1), 189-93.

This article describes the floristic diversity of Kadattyarea, Thengamputhoor area, India.

4 tables, 19 ref

015200   Mary Kensa V;Melda (Botany & Research Centre Dep, S.T. Hindu College, Nagercoli-629 002, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, Email: surejkensa@gmail.com) : Weed diversity of Thirumoolanager, Azhagappapuram, Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu, India. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2013, 15(1), 165-8.

The present paper deals with the weed diversity of Thirumoolanager area.

2 tables, 19 ref

015199   Mary Kensa V;Melda (Botany & Research Centre Dep, S.T. Hindu College, Nagercoli-629 002, Email: surejkensa@gmail.com) : Weeds and its ethno-botanical aspects of Thirumoolanager, Azhagappapuram, Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2013, 15(1), 149-57.

The present paper pen down the ethno-botanical aspects of weedy species of Thirumoolanager.

4 tables, 28 ref

015198   Kore P S;Saste K H;Ghate V S (NO, Agharkar Research Institute, G.G. Agarkar Road, Pune-411 004) : Additions to the genus Phyllanthus L. (Euphorbiaceae) from Maharashtra. Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 185-8.

Phyllanthus nozeranii Rossignol and Haicour and Phyllanthus simplex van gardnerianus (Wight) Muell. Arg. (Euphorbiaceae), the two new records for state of Maharashtra are described herein. Details of morphology, phenology, ecology and distribution have been provided.

2 illus, 7 ref

015197   Kang Y X;Zhang C C;Wang D M;Pu W J;Zhou R (NO, College of Forestry, Northwest A&F Univ, Yangling, Shaanxi-712 100, China, Email: dmw_70@yahoo.cn) : Antifungal activities of Potentilla fruticosa on 12 fungi spp.. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(2), 405-14.

The antimicrobial activity of ethanol extracts of Potentilla fructicosa was examined on 12 phytopathogenic fungi. Among the 12 fungi, Rhizoctonia cerealis, Botrytis cinerea, Alternaria alternata and Bipolaris sorokiniana were strongly inhibited. The ethanol extracts was sequentially fractionated with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and water and the fractions were tested for their antifimgal activity against 4-pathogenic fungi (strongly inhibited by ethanol extract). It was found that the ethyl acetate (EAF) and n-butanol (BF) fractions inhibited the 4-fungi (Rhizoctonia cerealis. Botrytis cinerea, Alternaria alternata and Bipolaris sorokiniana) more than the other two. The EAF was further fractionated on a silica column using a petroleum ether/acetone gradient systems to obtain two compounds with strong inhibitory activity. These were identified as betulinic acid and olenolic acid by physical and spectral analysis. Furthermore, both compounds were obtained from P. fruticosa for the first time. While both these triterpenoids inhibited the B. cinerea only, while the olenolic acid inhibited the B.sorokiiana These two chemicals were also active against Eschericia coli, while Bacillus subliits was inhibited only by Betulinic acid. These results suggested that the two triterpenoids present in P. fructicosa were antifungal and had the potential for use in plant disease control.

3 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

015196   Jose F C (Botany Dep, Government Arts College, Stone House Hill P.O., Udhagamandalam-643 002, Email: fcjooty@yahoo.com) : 'Living fossil' shola plant community is under threat in upper Nilgiris. Curr Sci 2012, 102(8), 1091-2.

^ssc1 illus, 8 ref

015195   Hegab M M;Abdelgawad H;Abdelhamed M A; Hammouda O;Pandey R;Kumar V;Zinta G (Botany Dep, Faculty of Science, Beni-Sueif Univ, Beni-Sueif, Egypt, Email: momtazyehya@hotmail.com) : Effects of tricin isolated from jungle rice (Echinochloa colona L.) on amylase activity and oxidative stress in wild oat (Avena fatua L.). Allelopathy J 2013, 31(2), 345-54.

Bioactive compounds were isolated from the jungle rice (Echinochloa colona L.) and their phytotoxicity was evaluated against the weed wild oat (Avena fatua L.). Tricin (flavonoid compound) purified from E. colona was tested at 5, 25, 50 and 100 μM on wild oat growth. Tricin suppressed the germination and growth of target weed at higher concentrations (25, 50 and 100 μM). The inhibitory effects of tricin were due to the attenuation of amylase activity, which decreased the starch mobilization and also hampered the activities of antioxidant enzymes. The increase in the non-enzymatic antioxidant molecules (polyphenol, ascorbate and glutathione) was not sufficient to prevent the damage from tricin, because the level of H₂O₂ and lipid peroxidation was high. More studies are required to evaluate the use of tricin as bioherbicide to control the wild oat.

5 illus, 62 ref

015194   Dong S Q;Ma Y Q;Wu H W;Shui J F;Ye X X;An Y (NO, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F Univ, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China, Email: mayongqing@ms.iswc.ac.cn) : Allelopathic stimulatory effects of wheat differing in ploidy levels on Orobanche minor germination. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(2), 355-66.

Orobanche minor seed germinates only when germination stimulants from host plants or some non-hosts become available. Wheat is trap crop to stimulate the O. minor germination, hence, wheat of different ploidy levels were evaluated for their impacts on O. minor germination. The wheat exudates collected hydroponically induced the O. minor germination. Wheat of different ploidy levels differed in their allelopathic stimulation on O. minor germination, with the hexaploid wheat being the most stimulatory. Root exudate activity was concentration-dependent, with no activity at 1 mg/L concentration. Likewise, the stimulation of O. minor germination also depended on wheat ploidy level, the growth stage and the concentrations of aqueous or methanolic extracts. The highest germination (41.6%) was achieved with aqueous extracts from the tillering stage with hexaploid T. aestivum var. Shaan No. 253, while the lowest rate (4.2%) was from maturity stage with diploid T. boeoticum L. Plant methanolic extracts resulted in higher O. minor germination than aqueous extracts. Thus wheat accessions of differed ploidy levels differed in their allelopathic stimulation of O. minor germination and the stimulation increased from diploid to hexaploid. The wheat allelopathic activity could be used as a non-chemical option for O. minor control.

2 illus, 4 tables, 42 ref

015193   Dominic Rajkumar S;Gautam R P;Singh S K; Srivastava S K;Gond D K (Botany Dep, St. Andrew's College (PG), Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh) : Ampelopteris prolifera (Retz.) Copel. and Sphaerostephanos unitus (L.) Holttum: two new records of thelypteroid ferns from Uttar Pradesh. Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 225-8.

Ampelopteris prolifera (Retz.) Copel. and Sphaerostephanos unitus (L.) Holttum are member of the family thelypteridaceae which are collected for the first time in Uttar Pradesh.

3 illus, 3 ref

015192   Diwakar P G;Singh R K (Botanical Survey of India, Western Regional Centre, 7, Koregaon Road, Pune-411 001) : New variety of Ceropegia attenuata Hook. (Asclepiadaceae) from Mook Ambika Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka, India. Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 209-12.

A new variety of Ceropegia viz., Ceropegia attenuata Hook, van mookambikae is described and illustrated.

2 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

015191   Csiszar A;Korda M;Schmidt D;Sporcic D;Sule P; Teleki B;Tiborcz V;Zagyvai G;Bartha D (Botany and Nature Conservation Dep, West Hungary Univ, Sopron, H-9400, Hungary, Email: keresztlapu@emk.nyme.hu) : Allelopathic potential of some invasive plant species occuring in Hungary. Allelopathy J 2013, 31(2), 309-18.

This study aimed to determine the allelopathic potential of some invasive plant species occurring in Hungary. Juglone index of 14-alien woody- and 20-alien herbaceous plant species was determined to compare the effects of juglone and leachates of plant species on germination and seedling growth (shoot length, root length) of white mustard (Sinapis alba L.) used as receiver species. The leachates significantly inhibited the root length of test plant. The juglone index at higher concentration leachates of most species was near to 1 or above 1 i.e. the effect of leachates was similar to or higher than juglone. Leachates of 21-plants [Acer negundo L., Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, Ambrosia artemisiifolia L., Amorpha fruticosa L., Asclepias syriaca L., Celtis occidentalis L., Echinocystis lobata (Michx.) Torr. et Gray, Fallopia japonica (Houtt.) Ronse Decr., Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh, var. subintegerrima (Vahl) Fern., Helianthus tuberosus L., Heracleum mantegazzianum Somm. et Lev., Impatiens balfourii Hook, f., Impatiens glandulifera Royle, Impatiens parviflora DC., Juglans nigra L., Parthenocissus inserta (A. Kern) Fritsch, Phytolacca esculenta van Houtte, Primus serotina Ehrh., Ptelea trifoliata L., Rudbeckia hirta L. and Vitis riparia Michx] reduced the germination and seedling growth (shoot and root length) of S. alba L. than control.

2 illus, 2 tables, 64 ref

015190   Chakrabarty T;Diwakar P G (Botanical Survey of India, Western Regional Centre, 7 Koregaon Road, Pune-411 001) : On the status of Actinodaphne nicobarica M. Gangop. (Lauraceae). Indian J For 2011, 34(2), 215-6.

Actinodaphne nicobarica M.Gangop. is merged with A. angustifolia Nees var. latior Nees.

1 illus, 2 ref