021237   Basarkar U G;Basarkar G D (Botany Dep, H.P.T. Arts and & R.V.K. Science College, Nashik, Maharashtra, Email: basarkarg@yahoo.com) : Formulation and evaluation of rice bran wax as a topical excepient. Life Sci Bull 2011, 8(2), 279-81.

During the past few decades a number of non conventional vegetable oils have been accepted as good quality edible oils in India and in other countries. Rice bran oil is one of them. Since India is one of the principle producers of rice in the world enormous stress is laid upon the extraction of oil from rice bran. Rice bran is the brown layer between the rice and outer husk of the paddy. The bran is obtained as the by-product in rice milling. Rice bran contains around 15-20% of oil, which can be economically obtained only by solvent extraction process. Rice bran oil is now gaining importance as one of the edible oils in India because of its nutritional property. It contains vitamin E, which is not only has an antioxidant property but also has an antiferility activity. Crude rice bran wax is dark brown in color and has its own typical physical and chemical composition. The literature survey reveals that rice bran wax has been used in cosmetics and toiletries. Rice bran wax is also utilized as an ingredient for coating, candy and chewing gums. But the utilization of rice bran wax in pharmaceuticals is meager or hardly there is any report inspite of its large production. Therefore utilization of rice bran wax in pharmaceuticals is worth investigating. Keeping in view and the potential availability of rice, its contents such as oils and wax an attempt were made to utilize rice bran wax as pharmaceutical aid.

1 table, 13 ref

021236   Bachulkar M;Sant N;Jagtap D (Botany Dep, Shri Vijaysinha Yadav Arts and Science College, Peth Vadgaon, Maharashtra, Email: madhukarcholekar@gmail.com) : Recollection of a rare orchid Habenaria stenopetala Lindi. from Maharashtra. Life Sci Bull 2011, 8(2), 277-8.

The genus Habenaria Willd. is represented in Maharashtra with about 21 species. Among them, Habenaria stenopetela Lindl. is seems to be a rather very rare orchid of Maharashtra State. It was reported from Mumbai, Pune and Thane district of Maharashtra by the earlier workers. There is no recent authentic report on its occurrence from the State. In October,2010 it was collected from Koyana Wild Life Sanctuary of Satara district. Description of the species along with coloured photographs are provided.

4 illus, 3 ref

021235   Asif N (Postgraduate Dep of Botany, T.H.S. Kisan PG College, Bahraich-271 801, Uttar Pradesh, Email: asifnishat82@yahoo.com) : Foliar blight of Acorus calamus: a new record from Bahraich (Uttar Pradesh). Vegetos 2012, 25(1), 125-6.

Sweet flag Acorus calamus (L.) is a precious medicinal plant possessing abortifacient, odontalgic, aphrodisiac, carminative, diaphoretic adnodyne, emmenagogue, stimulant, sedative, febrifuge, hallucinogenic, homeopathic, vermifuge properties. Plants were found suffering from foliar blight disease. Disease starts from the tip of leaf and gradually increases to cover entire leaf. Finally leaves appear as burnt and turn brown and soon disintegrate. Isolation from disease portion yielded Fusarium oxysporum (Schl.).Pathogenicity test was done to prove Koch's postulate. Search of available literature reveals that it is the first report from Bahraich (U.P.). The infected sample was submitted in H.C.I.O, I.A.R.I., New Delhi and the assign no. is H.C.I.O.-47906 (Holotype), BRH.1609 ; NA.0102 (Isotype).

4 ref

021234   Ashok Kumar;Tripathi B;Singh G (Arid Forest Research Institute, , New Pali Road, Jodhpur-342 005) : Tree and shrub diversity in degraded hills of bar-conglomerate formation of Pali district of Rajasthan. Indian For 2012, 138(2), 107-12.

Study on vegetation diversity in degraded hills of Bar conglomerate formation in Pali district of Rajasthan reveals the occurrence of 10 trees, 7 shrubs and 4 undershrubs/herbs with an average population of 16.9 tree, 116.8 shrubs and 4.8 herbs per plot. P. juliflora showed the highest population followed by Z. mauritiana. Frequency of occurrence, density and abundance were also highest for the P. juliflora. Species richness was the highest for tree and lowest for the shrubs, but Shanon-Weiner index was highest for shrubs. Population of shrubs was relatively more even as compared to the tree or undershrub/herb species. Importance value index was highest for P. juliflora among tree and Euphorbia caducifolia among the shrubs indicating a change of forest types from Tropical Euphorbia Scrub to Tropical Prosopis juliflora scrub.

4 tables, 25 ref

021233   Amin T;Sharma N;Bhat S V (Amity Institute of Food Technology, Amity Univ, Sector-125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh-201 303, Email: tawheed.amin@gmail.com) : General overview on Rosemarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) as a medicinal plant. Med Pl 2012, 4(3), 177-81.

Rosemarinus officinalis L. is a valuable aromatic and medicinal plant which is usually grown for the production of essential oil. The essential oil is obtained by distillation and is natural and volatile fraction of rosemary which has several health benefits and potential application in food, medicinal and aroma industry. The composition of the essential oil varies depending on the environmental conditions of the area. Depending on the major constituent of essential oil three types of chemotypes exist which include 1, 8-cineole chemotype, camphor/borneol chemotype and α-pinene chemotype. Rosemary being a rich source of antioxidant constituents has the ability to treat cancer and act as a natural food additive. In this review, a brief introduction to Rosemarinus officinalis L., its propagation, health benefits and side effects are given.

1 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

021232   Alirwar J R (Botany Dep, Govt. College, Niwari Distt. Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Email: jra_niwari2008@rediffmail.com) : Influence fo storage period on viability and moisture conternt of seeds of Alangium lamarckii thwaites (Alangiaceae). Indian For 2012, 138(2), 198-9.

13 ref

021231   Ali G;Abdulla M L (Botany Dep, Kisan (P.G.) College, Simbhaoli-245 207, Email: dr.gulfamali@gmail.com) : Phyto-sociological effect of dairy effluent on weed flora in association with mustard crop (Brassica juncea L. Czern & Coss.). J Pl Dev Sci 2013, 5(1), 5-8.

Samples of dairy effluent were collected from Parag milk plant Partapur, Meerut. Three concentrations (25, 50 and 100%) were used in this experiment. Tap water served as control. Effect of dairy effluent was studied on weeds in association with Indian mustard cvs. Pusa Bold, Pro Agro 4001 and T-59, which is grown as oil crop in India and abroad. The effluent effect with different concentrations has been assessed in all the cultivars of B. juncea. It was observed that weed frequency was higher significant in cultivar T-59 whereas, Pusa Bold greatly reduced it. Phyto-sociological dominance of Cannabis sativa L. and co-dominance of Chenopodium album L. in crop have also been recorded.

2 tables, 14 ref

021230   Ajay Kumar;Kaushik P (Botany and Microbiology Dep, Gurukul Kangri Univ, Haridwar-249 404, Uttrakhand, Email: purshotam.kaushik@gmail.com) : Antibacterial effect of Adiantum lunalantum Brum. Vegetos 2012, 25(1), 41-4.

Antibacterial activity of a therapeutic pteridophyte Adiantum lunalantum against pathogenic bacterial species Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus, has been studied here. Different concentrations of diluted and undiluted extracts inhibited growth of all test organism in vitro. The summer collection of test material produce best result. The inhibitory effect of these extracts was also compared with one unit strength of antibiotic tetracycline. The inhibitory power of one unit strength tetracycline was however, slightly higher than undiluted extract.

3 tables, 18 ref

021229   Agyeman K;Apri S O (NO, , ) : Survey of browse plants used in feeding small ruminants in the Komenda- Edina-Eguafo-Abrem district (K.E.E.A) of the Central Region of Ghana. South Asian J expl Biol 2012, 2(5), 196-203.

Study was carried out to identify species used as fodder by small ruminant farmers in the selected villages in the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem district of the Central Region of Ghana. Livestock farmers in fifteen communities were interviewed using questionnaires to obtain information on the personal background and livestock feeding and management practices. The main aim of the study was first to identify existing browse species and to determine problems associated with the use of those existing browse species. Some problems identified include harboring of insects, causing of abortion as well as causing bloat. The survey showed that Ficus exasperata, Ficus umbellate, Baphia nitida, Griffonia simplifolia, Antiaris africana, Terminalia catappa, Grewia carprinifolia, Pethecellobium dulceand Leucaena leucocephala were the main browse species that were used in the district to feed small ruminants. Other feedstuffs that were used in feeding animals such as Aspillia africana and Manihot esulentus tops (leaves and peels) were also identified. The level of browse usage showed that Ficus exasperata had the highest value of 66.7% and Terminalia catappa had the lowest value of 13.3%. Farmers in the district preferred Ficus exasperata which they perceived to promote the best production response in livestock. Various reasons were assigned for the selection of a particular browse plant. Farmers in the district may have to be helped to cultivate browse plant in order to sustain the availability and usage of browse for livestock feeding due to the rateof destruction of browse (shrubs and trees) resulting from urbanization, use of stem of shrubs and trees for fuelwood and other livelihood activities and desertification arising from human related activities.

4 illus, 5 tables, 25 ref

021228   Abudurehemen B;Cheng Y;Yan W (Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Grassland Resources and Ecology & Ministry, College of Pratacultural and Environmental Science, Xinjiang Agricultu, Urumqi-830 052, China, Email: weiyan1966@163.com) : Fruit growth and seed germination characteristics of Nanophyton erinaceum: a dominant desert shrub. Vegetos 2012, 25(1), 34-40.

Nanophyton erinaceum (Chenopodiaceae) is a dominant shrub in Junggar desert of Xinjiang, China. Fruit growth and its developmental characteristics were observed and the effects of temperature and salinity were analyzed on seed germination. The peak flowering period of N. erinaceum is from July 7th to 20th and the fruits grow slowly after flowering. It's fruits begin to grow rapidly since the end of August and mature in autumn (by the end of September or by the beginning of October). The perianths growing phase is the same as the fruit's growing stage and its length is double to fruit. The perianths protect young fruits from water evaporation by packaging. Its seeds (fruits) have wider range of optimum germination temperature, the germination percentage was more than 72% at all alternating temperatures, but there were significant differences among different alternating temperatures in seed germination, the optimal temperature to seed germination was 15/2 °C (100%), the sub-optimal temperature was 5/2 °C. The seeds have salinity tolerance during germination as they can germinate in various degree if NaCl concentrations 1.2 M. Salinity showed significant inhibitory effect in seed germination of this species and the germination percentage decreased with an increase in NaCl concentration. There was a strong negative relationship between germination percentage and salt concentration. However, after their transfer to distilled water, the ungerminated seeds in salt concentration showed low germination recovery (<59%).

4 illus, 32 ref

020171   Zhang S S;Wang B;Zhang L;Yu G D;Tang J J;Chen X (College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Univ, Hangzhou-310 058, China, Email: chen-tang@zju.edu.cn) : Hormetic-like dose response relationships of allelochemicals of invasive Solidago canadensis L.. Allelopathy J 2012, 29(1), 151-60.

Understanding of the hormetic dose-response relationships of allelochemicals from invasive plants may reveal the role of allelopathy in plant invasion. Effects of Solidago canadensis L. rhizome extracts on the germination, seedling growth and physiological activities of lettuce (Lactuca tatarica Breitung) were studied. The hormetic dose-response relationships were tested with nonlinear curve fitting methods using the OriginLab software. Germination rate, biomass and physiological activities including superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) content, relative conductivity (cellular electrolyte leakage index) and chlorophyll a and b followed dose-dependent responses. The extracts were inhibitory when the concentrations were higher than 0.6% (for germination), 0.5% (for growth) and 0.067% (for physiological activities). Stimulation was observed at low concentrations followed by inhibition at higher concentrations, thus the model simulated all the data very well with high coefficient of determination (0.76561 and 0.98304).

4 illus, 32 ref

020170   Zhang J;Zhang J Y;Wang Y Z;Yang S B;Yang M Q; Jin H (Institute of Medicinal Plants, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming-650 223, China, Email: jinhang2009@126.com ) : Effects of tree species on seed germination and seedlings growth of Chinese medicinal herb Gentiana rigescens. Allelopathy J 2012, 29(2), 325-32.

Allelopathic effects of 4-tree species [Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Ktze, Eucalyptus robusta Smith, Chaenomeles sinensis (Thouin) Koehne, Alnus nepalensis D. Don] were studied on Chinese medicinal plant, Gentiana rigescens Franch. ex Hemsl.. The leaf or root aqueous extracts of all tree species reduced the germination, plumule and radicle growth of G. rigescens, but the effects were variable. The highest seed germination rate was with leaf extracts (10.0%) of Camellia sinensis. Contranly the seeds did not germinate in leaf extracts of Eucalyptus robiista and Alnus nepalensis. The longest plumule length (3.37 mm) was in leaf extracts of Camellia sinensis. Hence G. rigescens may be grown as intercrop in tea (Camellia sinensis) plantation.

^ssc2 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

020169   Yousaf Z;Umer A;Younas A;Khan F;Wang Y (Key Plant Resources Conservation and Sustainable Use, South China Botanical Garden, Guangzhou-510 650, China, Email: zubaida_yousaf@yahoo.com) : Allelopathic plants: 24. genus Allium L.. Allelopathy J 2012, 29(1), 1-12.

Allium is medicinal genus, rich in carbohydrates and organic-sulphur compounds such as Allicin (a precursor for the production of alkaloids, saponins and glycosides). Many phytochemicals have been isolated from various species of this genus, but only few (Allinase and Ajoene) are active as pesticides. Leaf extracts of garlic (A. sativum) controls 98% growth of citrus nematode (Tylenchulus semipenetrans). Allium cepa, A. sativum, A. fislulosum and A. ampeloparasum are fungicidal against the Alternaria alternata, A. brassicola and Myrothecium roridum. The phenol and sulphur based allelopathic compounds of genus Allium can be used for weeds and insects management in agricultural systems.

8 tables, 49 ref

020168   Yonzone R;Bhujel R B;Ram R L;Rai S (Taxonomy and Ethnobiology Research Laboratory, Cluny Women's College, P.O. Kalimpong, District Darjeeling, West Bengal-734 301, Email: ryonzone99@gmail.com) : Medicinal wealth of Darjeeling hills used against various ailments. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 603-7.

Use of medicinal plants is popular throughout Darjeeling district and neigbouring state Sikkim also. People live in far flung area practice to cure disease ailments by their traditional herbal healing practices. They use plant materials of their surrounding areas. This paper deals in 25 medicinal plants species frequently used by the people of Darjeeling hills of West Bengal, India.

1 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

020167   Yadav S;Arya V;Sandeep Kumar;Yadav M;Yadav J P (Genetics Dep, Maharshi Dayanand Univ, Rohtak-124 001, Email: yadav1964@rediffmail.com) : Ethnomedicinal flora of dosi hills of Mahendergarh district (Haryana), India. Ann Biol 2012, 28(2), 152-7.

The present study was carried out to document the ethnomedicinal flora of Dosi hills in Mahendergarh district of south Haryana. The information was collected from the local medicine men, Vaidyas, traditional healers and elderly people of nearby villages. A total of 52 plants belonging to 25 families with ethnomedicinal as well as other benefits have been reported. Out of 52 surveyed plants, 38% were herbs, 31% shrubs, 19% trees and 6% climbers and grasses. Some plants are confined to this area e. g. Actiniopteris radiate, Adiantum capillus veneris, Euphorbia neriifolia, Barleria prionitis, Boswellia serrata and Commiphora wighti. But, now few of them are at the verge of extinction from this area. Proper documentation will be helpful for conservation of these threat plants.

5 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

020166   Waghmare M B;Waghmare R M;Kamble S S (Botany Dep, The New College, Kolhapur-416 004, Email: waghmaremahendra@ymail.com ) : Biochemical changes in Rosa floribunda infected with carbendazim resistant and sensitive isolate of Alternaria alternata. Bioscan 2012, 7(1), 101-2.

Leaf spot of rose caused by Alternaria alternata is one of the most wide spread disease. In the present study healthy and infected leaves were used to study biochemical changes in the host plant. The infected plant showed a decrease in the quantity of total sugar, reducing sugar, DNA and RNA content. While starch, total ash and phenol content significantly increased when compared to the healthy plant.

2 tables, 15 ref

020165   Valencia-Diaz S;Flores-Palacios A; Rodriguez-Lopez V;Jimenez-Aparico A R (Instituto Politecnio Nacional (IPN), Centro de Desarrollo de Productos Bioticos (CEPROBI), Biotecnologia Dep, Carretera Yautepec-Jojutla Km 8.5, Col San Isidro, C.P. 62273 Yautepec, Morelos, Mexico, Email: alejandro.florez@uaem.mx) : Effects of Tillandsia recurvata extracts on the seed germination of Tillandsia spp.. Allelopathy J 2012, 29(1), 125-36.

Epiphytes associate intraspecifically, but it is unclear whether the dominant species exerts a negative effect on its competitors through allelopathy. Tillandsia recurvata is the dominant epiphyte in the tropical dry forest of central Mexico. It has phytotoxic properties, therefore inhibits the seed germination of other epiphytic bromeliads, which may effect its associations. Nearest neighbor (NN) distance from each bromeliad was measured and the bromeliad associations were characterized as intra or interspecific. Leachates and organic extracts from T. recurvata were used in seed germination trials of Tillandsia. All species have a conspecific as their NN, but interespecific associations indicate that T. recurvata was less frequent NN for all Tillandsia. T. recurvata leachates and organic extracts inhibited the germination of all Tillandsia species. This research demonstrates the inhibitory potential of T. recurvata on its competitors; however its association patterns were not explained. Other ecological factors may account for its dominance and associations.

2 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

020164   Thakare U;Patil N;Malpathak N (P.G. Research Centre Botany Dep, Tuljaram Chaturchand College, Baramati, Maharashtra, Email: ug.thakare@gmail.com) : Comparison of soil application of peptone and oxygenatyed peptone and oxygenated peptone induced improvement in biochemical constituents and enzyme activity in leaves of organically grown chickpea (Cicer arietinum L. cv. Vijay). Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 537-40.

Field experiments were conducted to study the effact of soil application of peptone and oxygenated peptone on organically grown chickpea (Cicer arietinum L. cv. Vijay). Soil was amended organically using peptone and oxygenated peptone under organic farming condition. Peptone treatment showed upper hand as compared to oxygenated peptone in total carbohydrates, polyphenols, proline and polyphenol oxidase activity. On the other hand, soil application of oxygenated peptone led to more enhancements in parameters like soluble proteins, total free amino acids, DNA and RNA content and activity of enzymes like catalase, peroxidase, IAA oxidase, nitrate reductase and nitrite reductase. The overall picture shows that both peptone and oxygenated peptone were useful to enhance the biochemical constituents and enzyme activity of the foliage. Oxygenated peptone is more useful in this respect.

2 tables, 28 ref

020163   Tejavathi D H;Indira M N (Botany Dep, Jnanabharathi, Bangalore Univ, Bangalore-560 056, Email: indiramn@rediffmail.com) : In vitro regeneration of multiple shoots from the nodal explant of Drymaria cordata (L.) Willd. Ex. Roem. and Schult. Bioscan 2012, 7(1), 81-4.

Drymaria cordata commonly known as West Indian chick weed is widely exploited for its medicinal properties. An efficient protocol for in vitro multiplication of Drymaria cordata using nodal explants is developed. Nodal cultures were raised on Murashige and Skoog's medium (MS) supplemented with auxins and cytokinins either alone or in combination with various auxins. Maximum number of shoots (19.51 ± 0.18) with high frequency of shooting response (76.6%) was obtained in nodal cultures on MS medium fortified with BAP (4.44μM) alone. The in vitro regenerated shoots were rooted in MS + IBA (0.49 μM). The plantlets obtained were successfully hardened and established in soil. Nearly 90% of survival was recorded.

5 illus, 2 tables, 29 ref

020162   Talreja T;Yadav L;Sharma K;Goswami A (Plant Tissue Culture and Biotechnology Lab, Botany Dep, Govt. Dungar College, Bikaner-334 003, Email: talrejatamanna@gmail.com) : Flavonoids from some medicinal plants in vivo and in vitro. Bioscan 2012, 7(1), 157-9.

Unorganized cultures of medicinally useful plants Aegle marmelos, Cocculus pendulus, Moringa oleifera and Tinospora cordifolia were established on MS medium supplemented with suitable combinations and concentrations of growth regulators, using seeds as explant in the case of A. marmelos and M. oleifera, nodal explant in C. pendulus and inflorescence explant in T. cordifolia. Plant parts as well as calli of all selected plant species were analyzed for antimicrobial principle. TLC, Spectrophotometry and infra-red spectral studies were used for qualitative and quantitative estimation of flavonoids. Presence of Kaempferol and Quercetin in all four selected plant species was confirmed with significantly higher amount in calli than plant parts in all. Crude extract of flavonoids, extracted from selected plant species and calli, were tested for their antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and fungal pathogen Candida albicans. Flavonoid extracted from calli of all plant species showed greater antimicrobial activity against microorganisms because of higher concentrations of flavonoids in them.

2 tables, 22 ref

020161   Suryavanshi S S;Gaykar B M;Kulkarni A A (P.G. Botany Dep, Ahmednagar College, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra-414 001, Email: drsudhirsuryavanshi@gmail.com) : Species diversity and monthly variation of desmids at Ahmednagar region. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 621-7.

Desmids are often considered as indicators of oligotrophic nature of fresh water bodies. Inspite of its rich biodiversity some regions of India is lacking behind in the study of this particular micro flora. An attempt has been made to study the desmids from Ahmednagar region, Maharashtra. Total taxa belongs to 8 genera, highest species were recorded from Cosmarium (17), then Closterium (10), Staurastrum (8), Euastrum (4) and single species from Cylindrocystis, Spondylosium, Desmidium, Spherozosma each. Forty-three taxa have been recorded from the seven sites from fresh water bodies at Ahmednagar region. These taxa belonging to Chlorophyceae. Work on Desmids from this region has not been done before. This has been reported first time from the given region. (Pimpalgaon malvi-talav, Kapurwadi-talav, Dongargan sacred grove stream, and Sina river origin.) This paper contains Taxonomic description, monthly variation and locality of the Desmids.

9 ref

020160   Sundar A N;Jawahar M (Botany Dep, J.J. College of Arts and Science, Pudukkotai, Tamil Nadu, Email: somajainn@yahoo.co.in) : Antibacterial screening of the stem bark and wood extracts of Carissa carandas L. an important traditional medicinal plant. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 591-4.

The present study deals with the antibacterial activity of the hexanes, dichloromethane and methanol extracts of stem bark and wood of Carissa carandas L., tested against selected bacterial species of E. coli, Bacillus substilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphalococous aureus. Agar well diffusion assay was used to evaluate their antibacterial potential. The antibacterial activities in terms of percentage relative inhibition zone diameter (RIZD) were calculated and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) was determined. In conclusion the methanol extracts of the stem bark and all the extracts of wood were found more effective against all tested bacteria. The results indicated that this plant is a potential candidate to be used as an antibacterial material. These promising results open the possibility of stem bark and wood in finding new clinically effective antibacterial compounds.

3 tables, 22 ref

020159   Sonawane V B;Sonawane M D (P.G. Botany Dep, K.T.H.M. College, Nashik-422 002, Email: vbsonawane97@gmail.com) : Ethnobotanical and ethnomedicinal survey of Jawhar, district Thane in Maharashtra. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 713-18.

The main aim of this study was to document the indigenous folk knowledge of the inhabitants of the Jawhar taluka in eastern slopes of Maharashtra, a region of the Indian subcontinent long known for its extraordinary huge beauty arid biodiversity. One important result of the survey that was conducted of the inhabitants of this rugged hill country is that, it revealed a total of 50 different plant species having ethnobotanical and ethnomedicinal uses. Taxonomically, the plants used by the villagers of this area were classified under 20 families of angiosperm. Jawhar is a tribal region and different tribes like Thakur, Mahadev koli, Varli, Katkaris arid Kokana live in this region. There tribal people use different plant parts as home remedies, for building and thatching huts, making musical instruments etc.

1 table, 6 ref

020158   Singh S;Bhargava A K (Botany Dep, M.S. College, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh) : Phytotoxic effect of endosulfan in Vigna mungo cv. P-39. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 525-7.

Three concentration of endosulfan viz, 0.01% and 0.1% were used to assess its efffect of Vigna mungo cv P. 39. Seed treatment was employed for laboratory studies on early germination and seedling growth. Plant growth and productivity was assessed after failiar spary of endosulfan 15lh, 30th and 45lh days of plantation. At 0.01% 1 not toxic effect were noticed on most of the parameters studies. At 0.1% and 1% concentration endosulfan treatment resulted in toxic effect like unequal growth resulting in coiling of radicle, inhibition of root growth, stunting of shoot and burning of tips and margin of the leaves were observed. The plant becomes dwarf. The initial deposit of endosulfan 4.00 ppm and 53.42 ppm which came down ppm to 1.72 and 21.87 ppm after 24 hours. 6.2 ppm and after 7 days and 0.41 ppm ad 1.12 ppm after 15 days on pods of plants treated with 0.1% and 1.0% concentration of endosulfan respectively. Our data suggest that 0.01% endosulfan level in spray in non-phytotoxic.

5 tables, 16 ref

020157   Singh P;Dwivedi P;Atri N (Laboratory of Plant Tissue Culture and Stress Physiology Plant Physiol, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, B.H.U., Varanasi, Email: pdwivedi25@rediffmail.com) : In vitro shoot regeneration of Stevia rebaudiana through callus and nodal segments. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2012, 5(2), 101-8.

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni of Asteraceae family, commonly known as 'madhu patra', is a valuable medicinal herb having anti-diabetic properties. Due. to the presence of secondary metabolite, stevioside, it is highly used as low calorie sweetener and has importance in the nutraceutical market. Nodal, segments of Stevia rebaudiana were cultured in Gamborg's (B₅) medium supplemented with BAP, Kn and IBA alone and in combination (0.2,0.5,1.0,1.5,2.0,3.0,4.0, and 5.0 mg/1). Almost in all the cultures, initiation of shoot primordia was observed 4-8 days after the inoculation. Overall, from the economical point of view, B₅ media with 0.2 mg/1 BAP was the best producing multiple shoot (2.00±0.00), shoot length (3.87±0.37) and number of leaves (33.50±1.50), after 30 days of inoculation. The culture after 60 days showed rooting response without any rooting hormone. The sub-culturing after 30 days in 0.5 mg/1 BAP showed the appearance of callus from leaves. Leaf derived primary Callus when transferred in fresh B5 media with 0.2 mg/1 BAP resulted in shoot and root formation (organogenesis). Moreover, 88.20 g/1 fresh weight of 8 weeks old secondary callus was obtained in 0.5 mg/1 2,4-D. Regenerated plantlets were hardened in perlite and showed survival rate of 80% after 2 months in the field. This micropropagation protocol could be effectively used for mass production of Stevia rebaudiana in vitro, besides for further investigation of medicinally active constituents of the plant through callus production.

3 illus, 8 tables, 13 ref

020156   Singh D;Abubakar A (Biological Sciences Dep, Kebbi State Science and Technology Aliero Univ, Nigeria, Email: singhdharmendra12@yahoo.com) : Phenology of selected woody species found in Kebbi state, North-Western part of Nigeria. Natn J Life Sci 2012, 9(1), 1-4.

Phenological observations were taken for 16 woody species for three years (2009-2011) in the Kebbi State, North-Western part of Nigeria, Flora of Tropical Africa. Kebbi State is located at approximate latitudes 10° N and 30° N and longitudes 3° E and 6° E. It is situated in the North Western part of the Nigeria and is bordered by the Niger and Benin Republics Countries in the North and West, while on the East and South, surrounded by Sokoto and Niger States respectively. Kebbi State has a total land area of approximately 37,698 sq. km. The phenological behavior of most of the woody species was almost similar in different years; however, drought conditions affected the various phenophases of several species. Leaf-fall in majority of woody species began in December with a peak in January and February. Leaf initiation began in February with a peak in March and April before pre-monsoon showers. Flowering activity in these species continued throughout the year with two peaks; one in March and April and second in July and August. Although the peak of fruit maturation for these species was observed in September and October, the dehiscence of fruits was completed before pre-monsoon showers in April.

2 tables, 27 ref

020155   Sil S K;Ghosh M K;Ghosh P D (NO, Berhampore Girls' College, Berhampore, West Bengal) : Biodiversity in mulberry (Morus sp.). Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 427-31.

Morus L. of the family Moraceae is a native to temperate Asia and North America. It originates at the feet of the Himalayan range and is distributed into tropical, subtropical and temperate zones, migrating over centuries. According to Watt (1873), botanists regard that certain froms of Morus L. were truly wild in India, but there is no evidence that Morus L. is indigenous to the country, but rather China stands better as the home of mulberry than that of India.

36 ref

020154   Sil S K (Botany Dep, Gour Banga Univ, Malda-732 101) : Callus induction and high frequency regeneration of Peperomia pellucida (L.)H.B.K.. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 745-7.

Peperomia pelludda is a tropical shallow rooted herb (Family: Piperaceae) growing upto 40 cm., having characteristic cordate fleshy leaves and dot like seeds attached in soft spikes. Medicinally in South America, decoction of fresh foliages is used to cure eye inflammation. Infusions and decoctions are also used in curing gouts and arthritis. BA at 2.0 mg/1 was found to be better. For shoot regeneration. Callii in those tubes, where shoot regeneration did not take place, were turned brownish and disorganized. Half strength of MS basal fortified with 0.5 mg/1 IBA was used as rooting medium. Half strength of MS basal and role of IBA in root generation was assessed.

3 tables, 11 ref

020153   Sharma A (Botany Dep, Vardhaman Mahaveer Open Univ, Kota-324 001, Email: dr.anuradha777@rediffmail.com) : Optimization of commercial grade NaHCO₃ (mitha soda) concentration for Spirulina fusiformis cultivation. Bioscan 2012, 7(2), 259-62.

As a food supplement Spirulina is gaining more and more attention. Its growing demand has led to its large scale cultivation, which had been a very costly affair and low cost nutrient are mandatory to minimize its economy. The present experiment was conducted to find out the optimum concentration of commercial grade NaHCO₃ i.e. mitha soda in CFTRI (I) medium for supporting the highest yield of Spirulina fusiformis. Algal samples with 4.5 g/L -10g/L concentration of mitha soda in CFTRI (I) medium were prepared and algal growth was recorded in terms of optical density upto the 25th day. Present experiment revealed that 6g/L concentration of mitha soda successfully proved to be better for the growth of Spirulina fusiformis. From the economy point of view, cost input for 6g/L mitha soda was 5 times cheaper than the analytical grade NaHCO₃.

1 illus, 14 ref

020152   Shanmugapriya R;Poornima S (Botany Dep, P.S.G.R. Krishnammal College for Women, Peelamedu, Coimbatore-641 004, Email: shanmugapriya.bagavathi@gmail.com) : Preliminary phytochemical analysis of Momordica tuberosa (Cong) Roxb. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 405-6.

Preliminary phytochemical analysis of fresh and dry materials of leaf, stem, fruit and tubers of Momordica tuberosa, were carried out for the detection of alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids, phytosterols, glycosides and saponins. Flavonoids were detected in the chloroform and benzene extracts of leaf, stem and fruit and ethanolic extract of tuber. Phenols are absent in all parts of the plant. Triterpenoids were detected from the ethanol and chloroform extract. Saponins gave positive results in the ethanol, chloroform and acetone extract. Phytosterols were noted in ethanol, acetone, benzene and chloroform extracts. Glycosides was noted in ethanol, chloroform and benzene extracts.

2 tables, 14 ref

020151   Shah R A;Khan S (Botany Dep, Institue of Science, 15, Madame Cama Road, Mumbai-400 032, Email: shahrehanaa@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of withaferin-A in ashwagandha leaves from different climatic regions of India. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 709-11.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) is a highly valued medicinal plant in Ayurveda, used either singly or in combination with other botanicals. Plants growing under different agro-climatic condition often show qualitative and quantitative variations in their phytoconstituents. Present investigations deals with comparison of Ashwagandha plants (WsL, WsK, WsN and WsM) obtained from various regions (Lucknow, Karnataka, Neemuch and Mumbai) of India, for their withaferin-A contents (3.02%) followed by WsL (1.9%), WsN being close behind at 1.6%. WsM showed minimum withaferin-A content at 0.8% only.

4 tables, 8 ref

020150   Sarangthem K;Haokip M J (Life Sciences Dep, Plant Physiology Section, Manipur Univ, Canchipur, Imphal-795 003, Email: kananbala_s@rediffmail) : Antioxidant activities, phenols and flavonoid contents of Curcuma longa L. and Curcuma caesia Roxb. found in Manipur. Bioscan 2012, 7(1), 91-3.

In the study, a systematic record of the relative antioxidant activity in two selected medicinal plant species extracts is carried out. Findings indicated higher levels of total phenols (220±0.060 mg/g, 60±0.03 mg/g) and flavonoid (132±0.03, 30±0.06 mg/g dry weight of the root tissue) contents in the rhizome extracts of C. longa compared to C. caesia. The percentage of inhibition increases from 10μg/mL till 60 μg/mL and beyond which there is no increased in inhibition. The extend of inhibition by quercetin which is used as standard compound is 84%, C. longa 81.6% and C. caesia 76.24% respectively.

1 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

020149   Saikia B P (Botany Dep, Moran College, Sivsagar, Assam-785 670, Email: bhanudutta@yahoo.co.in) : Morphological attributes, germination, reproductive capacity and phenology of Alternanthera sessilis growing in crude oil effected area of Moran. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 557-9.

Alternanthera sessilis is a small prostrate or diffuse glabrous, profusely branched herb, having wide medicinal values. The plant is used commonly by the people from the ancient time in different countries in various diseases like jaundice, fever, stomach troubles etc. It is common in waste places and also as a weed in cultivated area. A. sessilis completes its life cycle within 6 to 8 months, the seeds of the plant show dormancy and maximum germination were found in the month of March (96.66%). The maximum average height of the plant was found 44.09 cm in the study area. During the study period the seedlings of A. sessilis were found to appear in the month of October and continued their growth up to February. The present paper deals with the study of various morphological attributes, seed germination behaviors, seed out put, reproductive capacity (259.24) and phonological events of the plant.

3 tables, 12 ref

020148   Saharia D;Sarma T C (Botany Dep, Gauhati Univ, Guwahati-781 014, Email: tarunchandrasarma@yahoo.com) : Screening of macro-fungi responsible for post harvest decay of bamboo culms in storage. Bioscan 2012, 7(1), 95-9.

Post harvest decay of bamboo culms by fungi in storage is one of the major problems of bamboos. The present investigation is an attempt to screen the macro-fungi mainly responsible for deterioration of stored bamboo culms. The investigation was carried out in 5(five) major bamboo producing districts of Assam, India. Few macro-fungi (Auricularia auricula, Boletus sp., Clitocybe fragrans, C. infundibuliforme, Collybia conigena, Clavaria cristata, Cyathus striatus, Daedalea sp., Fomes lignosus, Ganoderma applanatum, G. lucidum, Laetiporus sulphureus, Lentinus sp, Lenzites sp., Marasmius putillus, Polystictus sp., Polyporus squamosus., Phellinus sp., Pycnoporus sanguineus, Rhizopogon sp., Schizophyllum commune, Xylaria polymorpha, Xylaria sp.) associated with post harvest decay of bamboo were documented. Excepting Xylaria sp. (Ascomycetes) rest of these macrofungi belongs to the class Basidiomycetes.

10 illus, 1 table, 42 ref

020147   Saha A;Pawar V M;Jayaraman S (AMDM, Unilever R and D, No. 64, Whitefield, Bangalore-560 066, Email: sujatha.jayaraman@unilever.com) : Characterisation of polyphenols in Terminalia arjuna bark extract. Indian J pharm Sci 2012, 74(4), 339-47.

The bark of Terminalia arjuna is known for its heart-health benefits in ayurvedic literature. This has been further supported by in vivo studies on animal and human volunteers. But there is no detailed study on identification of the active ingredients such as polyphenols. Polyphenols possesses antioxidant properties and are well-known health actives, it is important to characterise polyphenols in Terminalia arjuna. Aqueous extract of Terminalia arjuna bark was analysed for its composition and molecular weight distribution by dialysis. Compositional analysis revealed that it has 44% polyphenols and dialysis study showed that 70% of the polyphenols have molecular weight greater than 3.5 kDa. High performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of Terminalia arjuna, confirmed that it contains flavon-3-ols such as (+)-catechin, (+)-gallocatechin and (-)-epigallocatechin. Phenolic acids such as gallic acid, ellagic acid and its derivatives were also found in Terminalia arjuna extract. Ellagic acid derivatives were isolated and their spectral studies indicated that isolated compounds were 3-O-methyl-ellagic acid 4-O-(3-D-xylopyranoside, ellagic acid and 3-O-methyl ellagic acid 3-O-rhamnoside. Hydrolysis and thiolysis studies of high molecular weight polyphenols indicated that they are proanthocyanidins. Given these results, it may be possible to attribute the heart-health effects of Terminalia arjuna to these polyphenols which may be responsible for the endothelial benefit functions like tea.

4 illus, 1 table, 34 ref

020146   Ravishankar K;Udayasree A (Sri Sai Aditya Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Research, , ADB Road, Surampalem, East Godavari District, Andhrta Pradesh) : Evaluation of wound healing activity of Ficus bengalensis shoot tips extract. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2012, 9(1), 393-8.

Objective of present study is to establish the wound healing activity of Ethanolic shoot tip extract of Ficus bengalensis (Family: Moraceae). Excision model was performed to evaluate the wound healing activity in Rabbits. In excision model percentage wound contraction and period of epithelialization was determined for the extract. Povidone iodine ointment was used as Reference standard drug. From the observation of excision model, Ethanolic extract of Ficus bengalensis (400mg/kg) was found to have greater wound healing activity in terms of percentage wound contraction and period of epithelialization than that of other groups. In conclusion, our findings suggest that Ethanolic extract of Ficus bengalensis possesses better wound healing ability and may be due to the presence of phytochemicals like glycosides, tannins, flavanoids, saponins present in plant extract.

2 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

020145   Rashid I;Reshi Z A (Botany Dep, Kashmir Univ, Srinagar-190 006, Email: ecoirfan@yahoo.co.in) : Allelopathic interaction of an alien invasive specie Anthemis cotula on its neighbours Conyza canadensis and Galinsoga parviflora. Allelopathy J 2012, 29(1), 77-92.

Studied the allelopathic effects of aqueous leaf leachate of alien invasive plant Anthemis cotula L., on seed germination and seedling growth of its two co-associates : Conyza canadensis (L.) Cronq. and Galinsoga parviflora Cav. in filter paper and soil bioassays. Allelopathic inhibition of seed germination showed species-specific and dose-dependent response with highest inhibition occurring at the leachate concentration of 10,000 ppm. Inhibitory effect was more pronounced in filter paper bioassay than in soil bioassay and G. parviflora was more sensitive to allelochemical(s) than C. canadensis. Interestingly, the seed germination of A. cotula was promoted by its own leachate at low concentration and inhibited at high concentration. Contributory role of allelopathy and soil in relation to invasiveness of A. cotula is highlighted.

4 illus, 1 table, 63 ref

020144   RamakrishnaRao T;Bhatnagar S;Sahoo S;Panda S; Mohapatra A K (NO, Regional Plant Resource Centre, Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar-751 015, Email: bhasunita@gmail.com) : Antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of wild and cultivated varieties of Combretum albidum. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 595-7.

Antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of leaf and bark extracts of Combretum albidum belonging to family Combrataceae, collected from two districts namely Khurda and Baud of Orissa, were explored to understand the medicinal potential of the plant of wild versus cultivated varieties of the plant. Cytotoxic activity was assessed by using brine shrimp motility assay whereas antioxidant activity was tested using 2, 4 dichloro diphenyl assay. Basic features like moisture content and morphological features were similar but significant variations were obtained in the antioxidant and cytotoxic activity. Cytotoxic activity of the two sample varied from extract to extract as hexane extract of leaf of cultivated variety was more active as compared to wild variety, where as chloroform extract of leaf of wild variety was more active. As per the antioxidant activity, leaf extracts of Khurda district were superior as compared to Baud district with more number of antioxidant bands. In case of bark extracts it was just the reverse. Overall study indicated that cultivated variety was at par with the wildly collected variety and hence bringing species of high demand in the main stream of cultivation is highly advisable.

2 tables, 11 ref

020143   Puri S (Center of Advanced Faculty Training Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant Agric. and Tech. Univ, Pantnagar-263 145, Email: smitapatho@gmail.com) : Vegetative growth and fruiting induction of Lentinula edodes strains on different substrates. Bioscan 2012, 7(1), 9-12.

Lentinula edodes or Shiitake is an edible and medicinal mushroom, widely used for preparation of dietary supplements and other delicacies. Rich diversity of mushrooms is found in Uttarakhand state of India, besides other flora fauna. Two strains of L. edodes fungus were collected from Uttarakhand hills. To study the physiological and yield attribute, mycelial growth and yield of L. edodes isolates werecompared on different media, temperature, pH and agricultural wastes like sugarcane bagasse, paddy straw, poplar sawdust, coirpith, teak and sal sawdust alone and in combinations of 1:1. Potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium was found to be superior in terms of radial growth. The fungus showed maximum radial growth at 25°C and acidic pH. The cultivation of mycelium was successful at all the substrates tested. On the basis of morphological, cultural and yield characteristics, strain L₁ was superior to L₂.

3 illus, 3 tables, 23 ref

020142   Pradhan P;Dutta A K;Giri S;Chakraborty N;Roy A;Acharya K (Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Botany, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019, Email: krish_paper@yahoo.com) : Phallales of West Bengal, India. I. Clathraceae: Aseroe and Clathrus. Sci Cult 2012, 78(9-10), 444-7.

Three members of Clathraceae were collected from different corners of West Bengal and are reported to be grown predominantly in this state. A detailed macro and microscopic features of them were presented.

3 illus, 19 ref

020141   Phukan R;Phukan S N (Botany Dep, North Lakhimpur College, North Lakhimpur-787 031) : Certain herbs used as traditional medicine by rural women of Lakhimpur district, Assam- their commercial and economic prospects. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 599-601.

Survey was carried out on the usage of herbal medicine by rural women and house wives in the district of Lakhimpur, Assam during 2009 - 10. The survey revealed 59.14 per cent people of Assamese community prefer to go for herbal medicine for the treatment of certain diseases. Female section prefer herbal treatment to a higher extent (64.4%) than the synthetic (35.6%). This paper deals with the importance of cultivation and preservation of locally available medicinal plants and create awareness among rural women and house-wives to know the importance of common plants of medicinal importance and their preservation.

3 tables, 9 ref

020140   Pattanayak S;Dutta M K;Debnath P K; Bandyopadhyay S K;Saha B;Maity D (ARD (Microbiology), Institute of Animal Health & Veterinary Biological (R&T), Kolkata, West Bengal) : Ethno-medicinal use of some commonly available plants for wound healing and related activities in three southern districts of West Bengal, India. Explor Anim med Res 2012, 2(2), 97-110.

The information of ethno-medicinal uses as haemostatic, antiseptic wound healer and anti-dermatitic properties containing plants in human and animals were collected from three districts of southern West Bengal, India, viz. Paschim Medinipur, Purba Medinipur, and Murshidabad which are situated in different agro-climatic conditions. Presently twenty one such plants were recognized and most of them are new claim regarding the said treatments. The plants were properly identified with the help of relevant literatures, photographed and available relevant previous information about the medicinal properties or uses were also searched out from the earlier literatures and were enlisted for comparison.

30 ref

020139   Patil N N (Botany Dep, Chandmai Tarachand Bora College, Shirur, Dist. Pune-412 210, Email: nnpatilctbora@gmail.com) : Association of vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi with plants growing in arid climate. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 633-9.

Deals with the vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal species diversity from Rehakuri, Parner and Shirur of western Maharashtra. The VAM fungi isolated from rhizosphere soil of Acacia arabica Willd, Azadiracta indica Juss, Prosopis specigera L from three localities had five genera and 32 species. These included Acaulospora denticulata, A. scrobiculata, A.foveata, A, bireticulata, A. laevis, Gigaspora aurigloba, G. coralloidea, G. gigantean, Gigaspora rosea, G. decipiens, G. tricalyptra, G. alborosea, G. persica, Glomus aggregatum, G. australe, G. fasciculatum, G. intraradices, G. halon, G. microcarpum, G. boreale, G. occultum, G. geosporium, G.fulvum, G. mosanum, G. bagyarajii, G. mosseae, Sclerocystis pakistanica, S. sinuosa, Scutellispora alborosea, S. auriglobosa, S.flugida and S. nigra. The occurrence Glomus constituted maximum percentage followed by Acaulospora from all localities. The soil pH ranged from 6.3 to 8.8 and available soil P varied between 4 to 51 Kg/ha in the rhizosphere of different plant species. The existence of strongly inverse relation between soil K, Zn, Cu and Fe and spore count was in accordance with the fact the increasing K, Zn, Cu and Fe avialbility decreased VAM spore count. Enhancement in spore count with higher nitrogen and phosphorus content of rhizosphere soil was recorded during study. Indigenous AM fungal species are well adapted to changes in soil pH and hence marked effect of soil pH could be expected in natural soil.

3 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

020138   Patil A V;Rathod V S;Waghmare M B (Botany Dep, Y.C. College, Halkarni, Tal. Chandgad, Kolhapur, Maharashtra-416 507) : Ethnobotanical survey of folklore plants for treatment of kidney stone and piles in Chandgad tahsil of Kolhapur district in Maharashtra, India. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 725-7.

An ethnobotanical survey was under taken to collect information from local rural people about the use of medicinal plants in Chandgad Tahsil of Kolhapur District in Maharashtra. Kidney stone and Piles are common problems among local people at this area. Local people use certain folklore medicinal plants for treatment of kidney stone and piles. The knowledge about the medicinal plants has been transmitted orally from generation to generation. Investigation revealed that there are 21 species of plants to treat kidney stone and piles. The study thus underlines the potential of ethnobotanical research and need for the documentation of traditional ethnobotanical knowledge. Majority of the preparations are from leaves and roots and some are from bark. The scientific, vernacular and family names of these medicinal plants along with the parts used and the mode of their administration are given herewith.

9 ref

020137   Parween R;Kamini Kumar (Botany Univ, Ranchi Univ, Ranchi-834 008) : Karyotype analysis of a rare herb Chlorophytum laxum collected from Ranchi, Jharkhand. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 485-6.

The study provides a first report of the karyotype analysis of Chlorophytum laxum 2n = 4x = 28 collected from Ranchi, Jharkhand suggesting it to be a tetraploid. Secondary constriction was completely absent and the karyotype was symmetric in nature.

3 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

020136   Parween R;Kamini Kumar (Botany Dep, Ranchi Univ, Ranchi-834 008) : Assessment of genetic divergence in the genus Chlorophytum. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 455-7.

Assessment of genetic divergence has been carried out different species and varieties of Chlorophytum using Mahalanobis D² statistics. Different species and varieties of Chlorophytum could be grouped into three clusters. Clustering pattern indicated that the genetic diversity was due to genetic distance and genotypes belonging to constellation CI - CIII and may be useful in a breeding programme.

1 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

020135   Nehul J N;Nikam T D (NO, Dada Patil Rajale College, Adinathnagar, Tal-Pathardi, Dist- Ahmednagar-414 505, Email: jnnehul@gmail.com) : Influence of culture media on growth and production of carotenoids in Westiellopsis prolifica Janet.. Adv Pl Sci 2012, 25(2), 733-5.

Westiellopsis prolifica was isolated from the collected soil samples from different locations of Bhandardara region of Ahmednagar district. Identification was carried out using morphological variation and taxonomical approaches according to Desikachary (1959), Pesscot (1962). The axenic culture of Westiellopsis prolifica was obtained in the laboratory. For the biomass production, different culture media were used namely BG-11, Fogg's medium. Allen and Arnon medium, Zarrouk's medium and CFTRI medium. The biomass was harvested by filtration through double layered muslin cloth and dried using air blower. After harvesting, the biomass obtained was subjected to the growth analysis. Carotenoids were estimated by spectrophotometer method according to Gowenlock (1988). Out of the different culture media used, BG-11 medium supported the growth of Westiellopsis prolifica properly as compared to other media used. The carotenoids content was more in Westiellopsis prolifica grown in Fogg's medium followed by the BG-11 medium.

1 table, 23 ref

020134   Nath S C;Borah S M (Medicinal Aromatic and Economic Plant Div, CSIR-North East Institute of Science & Technology, Jorhat-785 006, Email: scnath2004@yahoo.co.in) : Harnessing medicinal plants through ethnobotanic approach in Northeast India. Sci Cult 2011, 77(11-12), 441-5.

Medico-ethnobotany, the branch of ethnobotanical science, owing to its relevance in discovery and development of medicinal plants and herbal drugs, has been gaining resurgence of interest in recent years. Prompted by rich flora and traditional societies, the CSIR - North East Institute of Science & Technology, Jorhat has continued with a programme of tapping, documentation and assessment of medicinal plant lore of North-East India for follow up R & D of the resources and preservation of the knowledge base. The present communication highlights some progresses achieved so far in the programme.

3 tables, 11 ref

020133   Naik R M;Venugopalan V;Kumaravelayutham P; Krishnamurthy Y L (P.G. Studies and Research in Applied Botany Dep, Kuvempu Univ, Jnana Sahyadri, Shankarghatta, Karnataka, Email: rcnaik1@gmail.com) : Nutritive value and mineral composition of edible Caralluma and Boucerosia species from the arid areas of Karnataka. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2012, 5(2), 117-25.

Plants have been very important to humans as a source of food and medicine through the ages. As nutrition science is moving from the concept of adequate nutrition to optimal nutrition, new foods and plants are being studied for improving the health status of mankind. Caralluma and Boucerosia species are xerophytic succulents belonging to the Apocynaceae family with approximately 100 species distributed world wide. It is found in India and used as a part of the traditional medicine - carminative, anthelmintic, anti-diabetic, anti-hyperglycemic, appetite suppressants etc. Certain edible species that are found in Karnataka include Caralluma adscendens var. adscendens, C. adscendens var. fimbriata, C. stalagmifera and C. umbellata. In present study, the nutritive values of some of the randomly species from a few prominent locations (mainly arid) in Karnataka - Chitradurga, Chickmagalore, Tumkur, Hassan and Davangere have been reported. The percentages of components including Ash %, Moisture %, Fat %, Fiber %, Protein % and Carbohydrate % as well as the macro- and micro nutrients (Phosphorus, Potassium, Iron, Manganese, Zinc and Copper) were estimated. Results indicated that the analyzed species of Caralluma possesses good nutritive values and are quite rich in protein and carbohydrate content.

2 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

020132   Mitrovic M;et.al. (Ecology Dep, Institute for Biological Research "Sinisa Stankovic", Belgrade Univ, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia, Email: ppavle62@yahoo.com) : Allelopathic and environmental implications of plant phenolic compounds. Allelopathy J 2012, 29(2), 177-97.

Interest in phenolic compounds has greatly developed during the past decade, hence, numerous biological, chemical and agricultural studies have been done. Thus much information has accumulated on the role of phenolic compounds in the environment. These have been investigated as allelopathic agents, plant growth regulators and for chemical defence in plant-pathogen interactions. Ecosystems degradation due to the effects of phenolic compounds has become very significant because it caused problems of natural regeneration failure, reforestation and management with serious ecological consequence. This paper reviews some recent findings, on role of phenolic compounds in plant-plant, plant-soil-microbial and plant-pathogens interactions with special- emphasis on ecosystem degradation and regeneration.

5 tables, 99 ref