006727   TRIPATHI M, SHUKLA P K, SIKARWAR R L S, TIWARI A, DWIVEDI N, TRIPATHI S (Deendayal Research Institute, Satna- 485 334, Email: trimanoj391@gmail.com) : Pharmacognostic evaluation of bilva [Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa] root bark. Indian J Tradit Know 2019, 18(4), 670-6.

Aegle marmelos L., family Rutaceae, is a sacred plant mentioned in various Hindu scriptures. It has both medicinal as well as cultural importance. In the present investigation, macroscopy, microscopy, and powder microscopy studies, physicochemical analysis, detection of heavy metals, analysis of aflatoxins, screening of microbiological parameters and High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprint profile of methanolic extract were performed. Analysis of 04 aflatoxins (A1, B1, A2, and B2) was performed and found that no aflatoxins were present, authenticated by comparing the Rf value and colour of the standards spot with sample on TLC plate. Qualitative microbiological analysis of pathogenic bacteria, i.e., Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella sp., Pseudomonasaeruginosa and Escherichia coli were done and found that no bacterial pathogens are present in the Aegle marmelos root bark extract. HPTLC chromatographic fingerprint of Aegle marmelos root bark was done by using mobile phase toluene: ethyl acetate: formic acid (7.5: 2.5: 0.4). TLC plate was derivatized by using derivatizing reagent 5 % Methanolic- sulphuric acid reagent and plate was heated at 105 °C till the bands are clearly visible. Major spots Rf values and colour were noted at 254 nm, 366 nm, after derivatization 366 nm and UV light. Therefore, established parameters may be used as a reference tool for proper recognition and confirmation of right plant material and monitoring of batch to batch consistency of finished herbal products using Aegle marmelos as an ingredient. This study may also helpful in the preparation of Aegle marmelos root bark monograph.

7 illus, 5 tables, 27 ref

006719   RASTOGI S, PANDEY M M, RAWAT A K S, KUSHWAHA V, MURTHY P K (Pharmacognosy & Ethnopharmacology Div, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow- 226 001, Email: subharastogi1@rediffmail.com) : In vitro antifilarial activity, antioxidant potential and phenolic constituents of Quisqualis indica L. Indian J Tradit Know 2019, 18(4), 648-54.

Quisqualis indica L., commonly known as ‘Rangoon-ki-bel’ or ‘Madhumalti’, has been used by the traditional healers as it is active against some of the commonly occurring diseases like boils, fevers diarrhea and helminthiasis. However, no systematic and scientifically validated studies on antifilarial activity of Q. indica are available. In the present study, we report in vitro antifilarial activity of ethanolic and hydroethanolic extracts of the leaves (QILE and QILEW) and flowers (QIFE and QIFEW) of this plant on microfilariae (mf) and female adult worms of human lymphatic filariid Brugia malayi using motility and or 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT)-reduction assays. The hydroalcoholic extract of flowers (QIFEW) was found effective as it killed adult female worms (LC100: 62.5 µg/mL) and mf (LC100: 125 µg/mL); IC50 values for the respective parasite stages were 34.50 and 31.88 µg/mL. SI values recorded with respect to motility of female parasite and mf was more than 20. The active principle(s) responsible for antifilarial activity may thus be present in QIFEW. The antioxidant activity results also indicated QIFEW to possess better antioxidant potential than the other extracts studied. HPLC analysis showed that the 02 keyphenolics present in hydroalcoholic extract of the flowers (QIFEW) were gallic acid and ellagic acid. In the different extracts, the concentration of gallic acid was found to vary from 26.9 mg/g to 2.50 mg/g while ellagic acid ranged between 11.5 mg/g to 6.77 mg/g. It was also observed that the leaves were rich in flavonoids whereas the flowers were rich in phenolics. The findings indicate that active molecule (s) of hydroalcoholic extractfrom Q. indica flowers may help in providing new leads for developing antifilarial agents. We believe that this is the first systematically studied report on the in vitro antifilarial activity of the hydroalcoholic extract of Q. indica flowers.

5 illus, 4 tables, 25 ref

006708   MUHAMMAD S, HUSSAIN M, ABBAS Z, SAQIB Z, BUSSMANN R W, SHAH G M (Botany Dep, Hazara Univ, Mansehra- 21300, Email: saidmuhammad313@gmail.com) : An ethnomedicinal appraisal of the kurram agency, tribal area, Pakistan. Indian J Tradit Know 2019, 18(4), 631-47.

The present work was conducted at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in the agency of Kurram (33° 49' 07'' N and 70° 10' 24'' E), an administrative part of the late federally administered tribal area (FATA) of Pakistan. Aim of the study was to document the medicinal flora based on local information, i.e., local classification, part used, drug preparation and dosage. Ethnomedicinal data was obtained through semi structured interviews after obtaining the respondents prior informed consent. During field visits 72 people were interviewed 150 plant species belonging to 131 genera in 86 families were documented. The documented plants were found to be effective for 64 disorders, from simple to complicated health issues. In a quantitative analysis, 31 plant species showed fidelity level ranges from 33-100 % and relative frequency of citation from 0.03 to 0.28. Conservation issues related to plant use need to be investigated.

6 illus, 6 tables, 62 ref

006680   COCK I E, SELESHO M I, VUUREN S F V (Pharmacy and Pharmacology Dep, Witwatersrand Univ, Gauteng-2193, South Africa, Email: sandy.vanvuuren@wits.ac.za) : A review of the traditional use of southern African medicinal plants for the treatment of malaria. J Ethnopharmacol 2019, 245, 112176.

Malaria is one of the most prevalent and deadly parasitic diseases globally, with over 200 million new cases and nearly 500,000 deaths reported annually. It is estimated that approximately half of the world's population lives in malaria endemic areas. Malaria is substantially less prevalent in South Africa than in other African regions and the disease is limited to some regions of the Limpopo, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. However, it still has a significant impact on the health of the populations living in those regions. Traditional medicines have long been used in South Africa by multiple ethic groups and many people continue to rely on these natural therapies for their healthcare. The usage of South African medicinal plants in several traditional healing systems to treat malaria have been documented (particularly for Zulu and Venda traditional medicine), although ethnobotanical investigations of other ethnic groups living in endemic malaria areas remains relatively neglected. To document the use of South African medicinal plants  known to be used traditionally to treat Plasmodium spp. infections. We also critically reviewed the literature on the therapeutic properties of these and other South African plants screened against Plasmodium spp. parasites with the aim of highlighting neglected studies and fostering future research in this area. Books and ethnobotanical reviews were examined for medicinal plants used specifically for fever. Exclusion criteria were studies not involving southern African medicinal plants. Furthermore, while fever is a common symptom of malaria, if not accompanied by the term “malaria” it was not considered. Databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus and Google Scholar were used to source research relevant to southern African plants and malaria. Exclusion criteria were those publications where full articles could not be accessed. Eighty South African plant species were identified as traditional therapies for malaria. The majority of these species were documented in Zulu ethnobotanical records, despite malaria occurring in only a relatively small portion of the Zulu's traditional territory. Surprisingly, far fewer species were reported to be used by Venda, Ndebele, northern Sotho, Tsonga, Tswana, and Pedi people, despite them living in endemic malaria areas. Interestingly many of the identified species have not been investigated further. This review summarises the available ethnobotanical and laboratory research in this field, with the aim of promoting and focusing research on priority areas. Although malaria remains a serious disease affecting millions of people, medicinal plants while used extensively, have not been given the attention warranted for further investigation.

1 illus, 96 ref

006715   PAUL S, SEKAR K C, SINGH G, PANDEY A, BISHT M (G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, Almora- 263 643, Email: shilpipaul77@yahoo.com) : Studies on artemisinin, morphotypic and genetic characteristics of seventeen species of artemisia growing in Indian Himalayan Region. Indian J Nat Prod Resour 2019, 10(4), 272-9.

Seventeen species of Artemisia L. growing in the Indian Himalayan region were investigated for artemisinin content, morphological and genetic characters. During the investigation, artemisinin content was found to be in the range of trace to 0.12%. The highest was in A. dracunculus (0.12%) and A. roxburghiana (0.12%). The essential oil content was found in the range of 0.03-1.5%, A. dracunculus showed 1.5% oil (w/v) followed by A. nilagirica (0.6%) and A. maritima (0.6%). The AFLP analysis revealed 25.4% (Hind-ACC & Mse-CAC) to 67.38% (Hind-ACA & Mse-CAG) polymorphism while overall it was 51%. The dendrogram generated from AFLP data classified 8 species in one cluster (I) and 9 in another (II). The important pathway genes (HMGR, ADS and CYP71AV1) showed higher expression in A. dracunculus, A. roxburghiana and A. sieversiana. Based on the chemical analysis, the presence of a high amount of essential oil and artemisinin in A. dracunculus and A. roxburghiana suggested that these could be important medicinal plants for future research.

4 illus, 2 tables, 46 ref

006730   VIJAYALAKSHMI A, PRIYANKA M, PRIYADHARSHINI S, SATHISH KUMAR S, JAYAKUMARI S (Pharmacognosy Dep, Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies, Chennai- 600 117, Email: avijibaskaran@gmail.com) : Antipsoriatic activity of Cassia auriculata L. flowers in Freund’s adjuvantformaldehyde induced animal model. Indian J Nat Prod Resour 2019, 10(4), 259-65.

The plant Cassia auriculata L. belonging to the family Caesalpiniaceae (Leguminosae) used in the Ayurvedic system of medicine for the treatment of diabetes, ulcers, leprosy, conjunctivitis, liver and skin diseases. The present study aimed to evaluate the antipsoriatic effect of the ointments 0.5 and 1.0% (w/w) containing ethanol extract of the flowers of C. auriculata using complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) and induced animal model and also evaluated for its physical parameters. Antipsoriatic effect of 0.5 and 1.0% (w/w) ointments was evaluated by the phenotypic features (redness, erythema, and scales) in terms of psoriasis severity index (PSI) and histological features (epidermal thickness and degree of orthokeratosis). Evaluation of physical parameters for the prepared ointments showed satisfactory results with an acceptable condition of consistency for application. 0.5 and 1.0% (w/w) ointments treated animals showed a significant (*P <0.05) increase in the orthokeratinocyte layer and a significant (**P <0.01) reduction in the epidermal layer of skin treated with 1.0% (w/w) ointment with a progressive reduction (**P <0.01) in the severity of psoriatic lesions (erythema, redness, and scales) from day 7 to 21st day. The present investigations revealed that the flowers of Cassia auriculata possess antipsoriatic activity, confirming their traditional use in skin disorders.

1 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

006704   MAGGIO A, LOIZZO M R, RICCOBONO L, BRUNO M, TENUTA M C, LEPORINI M, FALCO T, LETO C, TUTTOLOMONDO T, CAMMALLERI I, et al. (Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences Dep, Calabria Univ, Rende, Italy, Email: monica_rosa.loizzo@unical.it) : Comparative chemical composition and bioactivity of leaves essential oils from nine Sicilian accessions of Myrtus communis L. J Essent Oil Res 2019, 31(6), 546-5.

In this study, the essential oils obtained from the leaves of Myrtus communis L. stored in a collection orchard located at the experimental station ‘Orleans’ of the Department of Agricultural and Forest Sciences of the University of Palermo (Italy) were investigated. The essential oils, analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, revealed the presence of α-pinene, 1,8- cineole, linalool, limonene and myrtenyl acetate as dominant constituents. The neuroprotective effects of M. communis essential oils were investigated by analysing the antioxidant properties and cholinesterases (acetylcholinesterase, AChE, and butyrylcholinesterase, BChE) inhibitory activity. Essential oils from Scopello accession possessed a promising radical scavenging potential with IC₅₀ values of 71.4 and 75.9 μg/mL for EO1 and EO2, respectively. Essential oil from Monte Pellegrino (EO5) showed the highest cholinesterase inhibitory activity with IC₅₀ values of 96.0 and 87.9 μg/mL for AChE and BChE, respectively. Significant result was obtained also with EO1 against the BChE (IC₅₀ of 77.8 μg/mL). Data on essential oil together with antioxidant effects were used as variables to set a matrix for statistical analysis. Results suggest that M. communis leaves EO could be potentially used in pharmaceutical field.

5 tables, 55 ref

006686   FATUR K (Ljubljana Univ, Ljubljana, Slovenia, Email: karsten.fatur@gmail.com) : Sagas of the Solanaceae: Speculative ethnobotanical perspectives on the norse berserkers. J Ethnopharmacol 2019, 244, 112151.

The Norse berserkers were wild warriors of Scandinavia known to enter a trance-like state that allowed them to fight with increased strength and a rage that granted them immunity to many forms of harm in battle. Though many theories have been advanced as to the cause of this state, the most widely believed is that the intoxicating mushroom Amanita muscaria was used. The following article underlines the issues with this theory and provides an alternate intoxicant that fits with the reports of berserker behaviour much better: Hyoscyamus niger. Literature from a variety of disciplines pertaining to history, toxicology, pharmacology, and botany was compiled to frame and support the argument. H. niger proved to be a more likely intoxicant used to induce the berserker rage state. With its anticholinergic tropane alkaloids and symptom profile, H. niger is a much more likely cause of the berserker state than A muscaria. Though there is not enough archaeological and historical evidence to prove or disprove this theory, it provides a novel explanation that is at present the most viable means of understanding the berserkers' trance.

101 ref

006729   VENKATESWARULU T C, KRUPANIDHI S, INDIRA M, SUDHAKAR P, BANGARAIAH P, BOBBY M N, BABU D J, NARAYANA A V, REDDY A R, PEELE K A (Biotechnology Dep, Vignan’s Foundation for Science, Technology & Research, Vadlamudi- 522 213, Email: karlapudiabraham@gmail.com) : Extraction of phycocyanin from Arthrospira sp. and screening of its antimicrobial potency against the selected pathogenic strains. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2019, 13(4), 424-6.

Phycocyanin is mainly produced by Arthrospira Sp., which is cultured in openponds. Algal screening for identifying anti-infectious agents is fundamentally novel attemptin present research scenario. Arthrospira Sp.produces the bioactive molecules that are rich in protein content. In this work, we report the extraction and partial purification of Phycocyanin using ammonium sulphate precipitation and dialysis. Further, the partially purified phycocyaninis tested for the antimicrobial property against the selected pathogenic strains and found highest zone of inhibition on E. coli (22 ± 0.6 mm).

3 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

006676   BOBBY M N, KRUPANIDHI S, PEELE K A, INDIRA M, WESELY E G, REDDY A R, VENKATESWARULU T C (Biotechnology Dep, Vignan’s Foundation for Science, Technology & Research, Vadlamudi- 522 213, Email: venki_biotech327@yahoo.com) : Screening of antifungal potential of leaf extracts from Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2019, 13(4), 401-5.

The antifungal activity of Albizia lebbeck Benth. (L.) was performed against selected pathogenic fungal strains namely Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium citrinum and Rhizopus oryzae. Crude extracts from leaves of Albizia lebbeck Benth showed significant antimicrobial effect. Among different extracts, amethanolic extract of A. lebbeck showed highest zone of inhibition. The order of antifungal activity, expressed as minimum inhibitory concentration(MIC) of Methanol > Ethyl acetate > Petroleumether observed for fungal strains tested. Methanol and ethyl acetate extracts exhibited significantant microbial activity than petroleum ether extract and may be suggested for use as natural antibiotic administration for the fungal diseases.

2 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

006666   ADAM A S, NTULUME I, ADEYEMO R, AKINOLA S, ABUBAKAR I J, ALEIRO A A, ONKOBAH S, MICHENI L, NAMATOVU A (Microbiology and Immunology Dep, Kampala International Univ, Ishaka, Uganda, Email: abubakarsunusi@studwc.kiu.ac.ug) : Antibacterial activity of Carica papaya against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis isolated from wards surfaces of Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Bushenyi, Uganda. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2019, 13(4), 391-400.

This study aimed at determining the antibacterial activity of Carica papaya against Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis isolated from doorknobs, bed rails, floors and walls of Surgical, Medical, Maternity, Pediatrics, Accident and Emergency, Semiprivate and Private wards of Kampala International University Teaching Hospital. The bacteria were isolated from the wards surfaces and identified using biochemical tests, Desferroxiomine and Fosfomycin antibiotics. Disc diffusion method was used to detect methicillin resistance in S. epidermidis using Cefoxitin (30 μg) disc. Fresh leaves and seeds of C. papaya was processed and extracted using standard methods. Antibacterial activities of the methanol, acetone and aqueous crude extracts were assayed using the agar well diffusion method. Phytochemical analysis, Minimum Inhibitory and Bactericidal concentration of the crude extracts were determined using brothdilution methods. Both C. papaya leaf and seed crude extract exhibited antibacterial activity against MRSE with MICs and MBCs ranges of 250 to 31.3mg/ml and 125 to 31.3 mg/mL for leaf and seed extracts respectively. This study concludes that C. papaya leaf and seed crude extracts were effective against Methicillin resistant S. epidermidis.

6 illus, 32 ref

006723   SAXENA R, KUMAR M, JYOTI A, TOMAR R S (Amity Univ, Gwalior- 474 005, Email: mkumar@gwa.amity.edu) : Untapped potential of salicylic acid, jasmonic acid and PGPRS to develop abiotic stress resilience in crop plants. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2019, 13(4), 376-90.

Abiotic stresses are the major limiting factorfor crop productivity and food security. There are several regions in the world which have been affected by changing environmental scenario and facing a serious decline in agricultural productivity. Abiotic stresses are responsible for major crop yield loss in the field. Numerous studies suggested that plant growth and developmental processes are directly or indirectly regulated by plant growth regulators and phytohormones. These phytohormones strike balance between plant growth and adaptations in abiotic stress. The increasing number of studies in crop plants revealed a potential role of salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) in activation of abiotic stress tolerance apart from their role in biotic stress resistance. Evidently, the endogenous level of salicylic acid and jasmonic acid in plants increased during abiotic stress. The present review article is mainly focussed on the role of two phytohormones; salicylic acid and jasmonic acid in inducing tolerance against drought and salt when applied exogenously and their endogenous level in crop plants. On the other hand, the role of PGPRs in plant growth and development activities are widely accepted that holds great significance.

102 ref

006671   ARORA M, KAUR G, SINGH S, MAHAJAN A, SEMBI J K (Amar Shaheed Baba Ajit Singh Jujhar Singh Memorial Coll, Ropar, Punjab, Email: mamtaarora.2007@rediffmail.com) : Quantification of phytochemicals in the pseudobulbs of Crepidium acuminatum (D. Don) Szlach- A critically endangered medicinal plant. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2019, 13(4), 366-75.

The present investigation is aimed to quantify the phytochemicals present in the pseudobulbs of Crepidium acuminatum (D. Don)Szlach (Family-Orchidaceae). Total fat content was found to be 1.45 ± 0.13 %, where as Alkaloid content as 5±0.52 %, Resin content was observed as 0.9±0.1 %, tannin content was 9.25±0.21 %,Crude fiber content was found to be 5.1±0.69 %.Saponin content was 2±0.48 %. Phenolic content was 70.9± 0.53 (μg Gallic Acid equivalent/ml ofextract). Total flavonoid content was 34.27 ±0.61(μg Quercetin equivalents/ml of extract), where as carbohydrate content was observed as 112±1.7(μgGlucose equivalents/ml of extract) in 80% ethanol extract, Total saponin content was184±1.2 (μg saponin equivalents/ml of extract).

3 illus, 1 table, 45 ref

006717   PRIYA, KUMAR S, GUPTA S K (Pharmaceutical Technology Dep, Meerut Institute of Engineering and Technology, Meerut- 250 005, Email: priyamasand9@gmail.com) : A review on therapeutic potentials of crocetin- A carotenoid derived from saffron. Curr Res Pharmaceut Sci 2019, 9(4), 54-62.

Natural  dyes  recognized  as  carotenoids  have  found  application  in  health  care  system  due  to their  wide  biological  activities,  high  safety  margins  and  lower  cost.  Crocetin,  a  carotenoid constituent  of  saffron  has  shown  wide  range  of  pharmacological applications  due  to  its significant  antioxidant  properties.  It is  used as antifungal,  antimicrobial  and  antiallergic agent. Crocetin  has  shown  significant  potential  as  an  anti-tumor  agent  in  animal  models  and  cell culture systems. Current review has shown crocetin’s multispectrum pharmacological benefits for the treatment of various chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, parkinson’s and alzheimer’s disease. This review   focus   on   various   studies   done   on   crocetin   explaining  its  broad spectrum pharmacological  activities.  In  addition,  this  review  will  also  focus  on  the  pharmacokinetic studies  of  crocetin  on  human  and  animals.  Crocetin is a  highly  potent  molecule  because  of  its strong antioxidant properties. In the near future, increasing its bioavailability using novel drug delivery  methods  having  minimum  side effects  will  get this promising  natural  molecule to the forefront  of  therapy  for  the treatment  of  various  chronic  human  diseases like  cancer,  diabetes, parkinson’s and alzheimer’s disease.

1 illus, 4 tables, 48 ref

006684   DAS S K, AVASTHE R K, GHOSH G K, DUTTA S K (ICAR- National Organic Farming Research Institute, Sikkim- 737 102, Email: shaon.iari@gmail.com) : Pseudocereal buckwheat with potential anticancer activity. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect B 2019, 38B(2), 93-4.

Among the minor cereals buckwheat is an important crop in feeding the mankind and animals to meet the ever increasing demand of rapidly expanding population of North East India. It is an important crop of the mountain regions at elevations above 1400 m amsl for grain and green leaves. In the higher Himalayas, up to 4500 m, this is the only crop which can be grown successfully. The harvesting period is not limited in Tartary (Tithey) buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum) as compared to common (Mithey) buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum). The 'Mithey' type matures earlier than 'Tithey' type.

6 ref

006724   SINGH R (KwaZulu-Natal Univ, Durban- 4001, Email: rshnsingh1@yahoo.com) : The ascorbic acid content of cabbage (Brassica oleracea). Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect B 2019, 38B(2), 82-4.

The antioxidant potential of many plant species have been elucidated. Cabbage is a vegetable that’s widely eaten. It’s unsure whether the raw or cooked state of cabbage is required to meet the recommended daily allowance needed by patient with vitamin C deficiency. This paper discusses the ascorbic acid content of cabbage.

3 tables, 5 ref

006716   PRAKASH V, SAGAR A (Biosciences Dep, Himachal Pradesh Univ, Shimla- 171 005, Email: vedp685@gmail.com) : Alpha-Amylase and urease inhibitory activity of leaf extracts of Prunus persica (L.) Batsch. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect B 2019, 38B(2), 74-81.

The use of herbal remedies for curing diseases is on the rise in developed as well as developing countries. The current study was undertaken to investigate the leaf extracts of Prunus persica (L.) Batsch for their inhibitory activity against α-amylase and urease enzymes in three different solvents i.e. methanol, acetone and aqueous. The plant showed highest α- amylase enzyme inhibition (75.08±0.28 %) at a concentration of 1 mg/mL in methanol extract whereas acetone and aqueous extracts showed moderate inhibition against α- amylase (59.95±1.25 and 50.00±1.00 % respectively). In case of urease inhibition, methanol extract exhibited best inhibitory activity (55.08±0.28 %) followed by acetone and aqueous extracts at a concentration of 1 mg/mL. The plant extracts showed concentration dependent inhibition of both the enzymes. The inhibitory activity altogether increased with increasing concentration of each plant extract in the range of 0.2-1.0 mg/mL. Moreover, the plant was found more effective against α-amylase than urease. The results further revealed that methanol leaf extracts displayed maximum inhibitory effects than other solvent extracts which tends to show that the active metabolites of the different plant parts are better extracted with methanol than other solvents. Thus the present study provides scientific evidence to the traditional uses of this plant in the treatment of diabetes, obesity, gastric intestinal infections, ulcers, kidney stones etc. Therefore, the leaf extracts of P. persica can be selected for further investigation to discover their ultimate therapeutic potential.

2 illus, 2 tables, 33 ref

006685   DHINGRA N, SINGH D K, AGRAWAL P K (Zoology Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi- 110 007, Email: nehadhingra11989@gmail.com) : Seasonal variation in the rhizospheric microbial diversity of the weedy plants. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect A 2019, 38A(2), 82-94.

Plant-microbe interaction forms the intrinsic part of our ecosystem. This interaction is responsible for remediating contaminants, sequestration of carbon, plant disease control and plant growth promotion. Phytoremediation capabilities can be determined by thriving microbial communities and variation in their species composition. The composition of soil microbiome is affected by various factors such as environment, climate and plant genotype. In the present study, we have assessed the seasonal variation in the bacterial community structure in the rhizospheric microbiome of weedy plants, Acorus calamus, Typha latifolia, and Phragmites karka using T-RFLP. The bacterial phyla dominating the summer season belonged to Proteobacteria, Bacteriodetes, Firmicutes were seen to abundant in P.karka followed by A.calamus and T.latifolia. During the winter season the bacterial phyla that dominated belonged to the phylum Bacetriodetes, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes were found abundant in P. karka followed by A. calamus and T. latifolia. Diversity indices of the bacterial community were assessed. The result of this study shows the presence of seasonal variation in bacterial phyla which can act as the potential candidates for the remediation process.

10 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

006726   TAMBOLI R R (Microbiology Dep, Maharashtra Udayagiri Mahavidyalaya, Udgir- 413 517, Email: raju_tamboli2005@rediffmail.com) : Isolation and characterization of zinc solubilizing bacteria from rhizosphere soil of Latur District, Marathwada, India. Biosci Biotech Res Asia 2019, 16(4), 797-803.

Rhizosphere soil samples from Wheat crop were collected from the 10 different locations in Latur district of Marathwada region with the objective to isolate the zinc solubilizing bacteria, their screening and characterization. Zinc carbonate was used as insoluble zinc source. Out of 10 Zn solubilizers, 3 most outstanding isolates were maintained for further screening for mineral solubilization (Zn and K). Among these RRT19, RRT34 and RRT13 which was identified as Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis by morphological and biochemical test. These isolates showed maximum zone of solubilization with 34, 31 to 30 mmon liquid salt agar medium after 48 hrs of incubation respectively. The bacterial species isolated from the Rhizosphere soilcan be use in soils that are deficient in Zinc or where insoluble zinc is abundant. The present study concluded that the use of zinc solubilising bacteria in the zinc deficient soil will help to enhance the growth and yield of wheat crop.

2 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref

006698   KALAKATTAWI A, ATTAS S G A, EDRIS S, AZEIZ A Z A, ALGUTHAMI A F, HEGAZI A G, ALMASAUDI S B, AL-HINDI R R, BAHIELDIN A (Biological Sciences Dep, King Abdulaziz Univ, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Email: sedris@aucegypt.edu) : In vitro anti-candida activity of different Saudi honeys and honey mixed with Taifi rose oil. Biosci Biotech Res Asia 2019, 16(4), 779-87.

Candida albicans is a common human yeast that infect several epithelial tissues including vagina. The increase of drug-resisting C. albicans encouraged the researchers to find alternative treatment. Honey medical signatures such as bactericidal, antifungal and anti-candida made it a possible candidate for disease treatment. In addition, rose essential oil possesses a wide range of biochemical activities in folkloric medicine including anti-microbial activities. The present research utilizes honey alone or in conjunction with Taifi rose (Rosa damascena) oil as anti-candida agent to treat vaginal candidiasis. Three local monoforal honeys from different flower sources and/or geographic origins were tested with four concentrations (50, 80 and 95%), while two concentrations of the Taifi rose oil (1 and 2%). Anti-candida activity of honey alone or in conjunction with Taifi rose oil was determined as well as phenolic and flavonoids contents were determined. Also, GC-MS analysis of volatile oils and alkaloids were evaluated. The results of this study indicated that acidity is within the allowed range for commercialization and long-lasting storage. All honeys tested inhibited completely the C. albicans growth at concentrations 80% and 95% either incubation after 48 or 72 h. Also, only Markh and Manuka honeys were completely inhibited C.albicans growth at 50% concentration. Also, C.albicans growth inhibited completely at 2% Taifi rose oil after the incubation periods of 48 and 72 h. The phenolic compounds and flavonoids were analysed by mass spectrometry analysis which revealed the Markh honey showed the presence of gallic acid and quercetin that proved to have antifungal activity. It could be concluded that mixed Markh honey and Taifi rose oil treatment was capable to inhibit C.albicans growth completely. Further research is required to determine the anti-candida activity of the mixture of Markh honey and Taifi rose oil in the human body as a new therapeutic drug to treat vaginal candidiasis.

3 illus, 2 tables, 47 ref

006709   MUSHTAQ W, SHAKEEL A, MEHDIZADEH M , ALGHAMDI S A, HAKEEM K R (Botany Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh- 202 002, Email: kur.hakeem@gmail.com) : Impact of plant invasions on local vegetation: An Indian perspective. Biosci Biotech Res Asia 2019, 16(4), 763-71.

Invasive species are key operators of worldwide ecological change causing the loss of biodiversity, modifying structure and functioning of bio-system, and disturbing establishment of ecosystem amenities throughout the world. About 8.6% of the overall flora of India is alien. Aconsiderable rise in worldwide trade and travel is expectedto accelerate entry, spreading and eventual establishment of foreign species in India. Whereas the systematic catalogue of nonnative species incarnates the primary vital stage, however, more comprehensive investigations on description of alien species in India, study of their potential invasion environments, recognition of possible ways of invasion and their impact on local vegetation are still missing. The present study reports the incidence of 173 species of alien flora in India, their origins from different parts of the globe belonging to a diverse array of families with an emphasis on the adverse effect of important invasive species on the local vegetation so as to generate an understanding of plant invasions and develop policy framework for their management.

40 ref

006679   CHAUDHURI M, PAUL A K, PAL A (Botany Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata- 700 019, Email: arundhatipalcu@gmail.com) : Isolation and assessment of metabolic potentials of bacteria endophytic to carnivorous plants Drosera burmannii and Utricularia spp. Biosci Biotech Res Asia 2019, 16(4), 731-41.

Carnivorous plants with unique mode of nutrition and physiology have attracted the attention of the microbiologists in studying the microbial diversity inherent in their internal environment. This work is aimed to study the culturable endophytic diversity of the carnivorous plants Drosera burmannii Vahl., Utricularia stellaris L. f. and U. exoleta R. Br. collected from different districts of West Bengal, India. During the study, a total of 168 phenotypically distinct endophytic bacteria were isolated and their colonization frequency, isolation rate, ShanonWeaver, Gleason and Simpson diversity indices were analyzed. The metabolic activities of these endophytic isolates have been evaluated following standard microbiological methods. A preliminary screening have led to the selection of nineteen bacterial isolates having potent antimicrobial, antioxidant, proteolytic and plant growth promoting activities involving IAA and siderophore production as well as phosphate solubilization. Detailed phenotypic characterization followed by the determination of simple matching coefficient has tentatively assigned these potent endophytic bacterial isolates to the genera Bacillus, Acetobacterium, Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, Alcaligens and Xanthomonas. The metabolic attributes of these bacterial endophytes leading to the production of bioactive compounds therefore deserve special attention in understanding the survival and growth strategies of the carnivorous hosts in nutrient deficient environment as well as exploring their biosynthetic products in human health and hygiene.

3 illus, 3 tables, 36 ref

006692   GÜR T, KARAHAN F, DEMIR H, DEMIR C (Yüzüncü Yil Univ, Van, Turkey, Email: tugbagur80@gmail.com) : Investigation of some antioxidant enzyme activities in cherry fruit. Biosci Biotech Res Asia 2019, 16(4), 725-9.

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase enzyme (CAT) activities with strong antioxidant properties were determined in cherry fruits obtained from different regions such as Aegean, Mediterranean and Marmara. The cherry fruit extract was prepared and some antioxidant activities were determined. Cherry (prunus avium) is a fruit belonging to the family of rosaceae. Its homeland is asia minor. Many varieties are grown in Turkey. There are more than a hundred culture forms grown in north america with temperate regions of europe and asia. Its body is in the form of a flat-shell tree. Cherry is a fruit rich in vitamin C. They do not contain fat and cholesterol. It contains essential minerals such as fiber, vitamin A, iron, calcium, protein as well as abundant potassium. Red cherries also contain melatonin, which helps combat harmful toxins. Due to its antioxidant properties, it has many benefits such as prevention of some types of cancer, reduction of inflammation, prevention of gout and removal of muscle pain. For this purpose, it is aimed to determine some enzyme activities which are thought to be found in cherry fruit. In this study, antioxidant enzyme activities in cherry fruit were determined by spectrophotometric method. Additonaly the findings were analyzed by using multidimensional statistical methods and the results were discussed in a multidimensional manner. It is obtained that the highest catalase enzyme activity was determined in the Aegean region (4.330 U/L), while the highest superoxide dismutase enzyme activity was found in the Mediterranean region (7.176 U/L).

1 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

006670   ANSARI W A, ATRI N, PANDEY M, SINGH A K, SINGH B, PANDEY S (Botany Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi- 221 005, Email: neelammmv14@gmail.com) : Influence of drought stress on morphological, physiological and biochemical attributes of plants: A review. Biosci Biotech Res Asia 2019, 16(4), 697-709.

Drought poses the most significant environmental constrain that limits the growth and yield efficiency of vegetables around the world. The major challenges lies is to identify potential genetic resources and technology development that improve quality and productivity of vegetable crops under declining land, reducing natural resources and increasing environmental stresses. Varied responses of different crop species/genotypes to water-deficit condition have been studied for a long time, and several morphological, physiological and biochemical characters have been suggested to be responsible for drought tolerance. Understanding the morphological, physiological and biochemical responses to drought is essential for a holistic perception of plant resistance mechanisms to water-limited conditions and also to design screening techniques for drought tolerance that may be employed in crop breeding. Drought stress lead to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plants which inactivate enzymes and damage important cellular components. The effects of the action of free radicals on membranes include the induction of lipid peroxidation and fatty acid de-esterification. Plants possess very efficient enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense systems which work in concert to control the cascades of uncontrolled oxidation and protect plant cells from oxidative damage by scavenging of ROS. In this review the important morphological, physiological and biochemical traits that are influenced by drought stress, and may be important indices for identification/screening of drought tolerant genotypes in vegetable crops has been described.

1 illus, 1 table, 76 ref

006714   ONYEMELUKWE NGOZI F, CHIJIOKE OLIVE U, OGECHUCKWU D-N, JOHNBULL O S (Medical Laboratory Sciences Dep, Nigeria Univ, Enugu, Nigeria) : Microbiological, parasitological and lead contamination of herbal medicines consumed in Enugu, Nigeria. Biomed Res 2019, 30(6), 828-33.

Herbal medicines are made from mixtures of different plant components used by traditional medical practitioners for the treatments of various diseases in Nigeria in unhygienic conditions. The present study investigates microorganisms contaminating these concoctions and also assessing any contamination with heavy metal with limited reference to lead poison from samples consumed in Enugu, Nigeria. Eighty herbal preparations were randomly purchased from different locations and dealers in Enugu according to their therapeutic claims. The samples were analysed and examined microscopically for evidence of parasite. Serial dilutions of the preparations were aseptically prepared, while the total viable count was determined for the isolates which were identified using standard culture and biochemical techniques. The method of Association of Analytical Chemists (AOAC) was adopted for estimating the lead content of the samples. Three species of protozoan ((Entamoeba histolytica, Entameoba coli, E. coli, Giardia intestinalis), and three species of helminth parasite (Toxocara canis hookworm, Ascaris lumbricoides) were recovered with a contamination rate of 51.3 percent. A. lumbricoides was the highest recovered parasitic organism (53.7 %), Bacillus spp. (38.2 %), Staphylococcus aureus (7.3 %), Escherichia coli (18.2) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (20 %), were the commonest bacterial isolates while Salmonella spp. and Klebiella spp. yielded 3.6 % each. Fungi species were also isolated from the various samples (Aspergillus flavus (22.7 %), A. niger (10.7), Geotrichum candidum (17.3), Trichophyton mentagrophytes (10.7 %), Microsporium canis (6.7 %), Rhizopus (17.3), Mucor spp. (5.3 %), Penicllium spp. (5.3 %), Syncephalastrum racemosus ranking the least (4 %) while lead was dictated with a range of 0.027-1.081 mg/L in the positive samples. There was a huge contamination of the herbal concoctions in Enugu with microorganisms, and some with lead poison. This could be a source of many enteric and other infections that abound in the expanse, and stress the pressing need for standardization and regular tests of these provisions by appropriate agencies.

6 tables, 26 ref

006705   MAKHAFOLA M A, MIDDLETON L, OLIVIER M T, OLAOKUN O O (Chemistry Dep, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences Univ, Pretoria- 0204, Email: Olivier.mutendela@gmail.com) : Cytotoxic and antibacterial activity of selected medicinal plants used in South African traditional medicine. Asian J Chem 2019, 31(11), 2623-7.

Five plants were investigated for their antibacterial and cytotoxicity activities, namely: Lantana rugosa, Lippia javanica, Lippia wilmsii, Hilliardiella elaeagnoides and Withania somnifera. Four organisms and liver cells were used to evaluate the efficacy and the safety of the extracts from these plants. All the extracts showed antibacterial activity with the MIC ranging from 0.04 ± 0.04 mg/mL to 11.46 ± 9.66 mg/mL. The acetonic extract of L. javanica exhibited the highest antibacterial activity with MIC value of 0.04 ± 0.04 mg/mL against P. aeruginosa and 0.28 ± 0.35 mg/mL against S. aureus. Aqueous and acetonic extracts of L. wilmsii (LC₅₀ > 1000 µg/mL) and the hexane extract of L. javanica (LC₅₀ > 1000 µg/mL) were the least cytotoxic. While acetonic extract of L. javanica (0.01 ± 0.64 µg/mL) and hexane extract of L. wilmsii (0.03 ± 0.31 µg/mL) were the most cytotoxic.

3 tables, 30 ref

006707   MEHAN N, PANDURANGAN A, UPADHYAY P K, ALAM M S, BHATT S, KUMAR M, SAINI V, RISHABH (GLA Univ, Mathura- 281 406, Email: manish_singh17@rediffmail.com) : Phytopharmacology of Ficus religiosa L. and its significance as nanoparticulate carrier. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 186-93.

India is renowned for the development of health science based on Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. Ficus religiosa L. is most popular species in these indigenous system of medicines. In F. religiosa, entire plant parts like flowers, leaf, fruit, root, bark, inner part of stem, seeds are used as bioactive ingredients. Recently, some pharmacological reports presented that medicinally active molecules which are important for future medication are obtained majorly from trees. These reports also established an explanation related to antidiabetic, anticancer, antiulcer, anticonvulsant, cell reinforcement, and wound recuperating properties of various parts of F. religiosa. Different parts of F. religiosa (roots, leaves, bark, fruit and seed) contains different types of active constituents which may help to treat various diseases. Extractions of F. religiosa in solvents (Ethanolic extraction, Water extraction, Methanolic extraction, etc.) are depend on the type of disease. Particulate frameworks like nanoparticles have been utilized as a physical way to deal with adjust and improve the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics properties of different kinds of drug molecules. Nanoparticles are very small materials in the size range from 1 to 100 nm. Distinctive kind of nanomaterials are being created by utilizing copper, zinc, titanium, magnesium, gold, alginate and silver. Nanoparticles of F. religiosa improve the medicinal property on different diseases like malignant growth, arthritis and so on. In this manner, the main intention behind writing this article is to present an advanced study on phytochemistry, pharmacological properites and nanotechnology of F. religiosa.

5 tables, 78 ref

006678   CHANDRA R, BHANDARI P, SHARMA S C, EMMANUEL I, ALAM A (Plant Science Dep, Federal Univ, Nigeria, West Africa, Email: afrozalamsafvi@gmail.com) : Health benefits of cactus. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 179-85.

Xerophytes are the great fighters due to their amazing abilities to deal with extremely challenging environment. These plants are distinct from other mesophytes in having morphological, anatomical and physiological adaptations. Due to these adaptive modifications the biochemistry of these plants is also unique and they are the vital source of valuable phytochemical contents of a range of uses, especially medicinal utilization. Cactus is one of the most widely distributed plants in the xeric environment and has special characteristics. In this review an attempt is made to provide an all-encompassing account of this plant with special focus to its medicinal properties.

1 illus, 1 table, 87 ref

006689   GADADE J P, PATIL S A (Botany Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur, Email: swaroopa.ghatge@gmail.com) : Phytochemical paradigm, antioxidant status and their correlation in Rotheca serrata (L.) Steane and Mabb.. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 156-66.

Lamiaceae member Rotheca serrata (L.) Steane and Mabb. (Clerodendrum serratum) is reported as regionally “vulnerable” in northern India and “endangered” in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh regions. Being highly medicinal, it is used widely in treatment of different diseases. Locally called Bharangi, has antitussive, antioxidant, anticancerous and vasorelaxant properties. Present investigation deals with quantitative study of bioactive compounds like total phenolics and total flavonoids. Four different solvents systems (aqueous, methanol, chloroform, isoamyl alcohol) and fresh leaf and root plant parts were used for extraction. In the various solvent systems used, methanolic extract of root reported highest phenolic content (34.3 ± 0.05 mg GAE/g FW). The highest flavonoid content also has been found in methanolic extract of root (13.8 ± 0.01 mg RE/g FW). The antioxidant activities of fresh leaf and root parts of R. serrata were determined using 2,2 diphenyl-1-picrylhydazyl (DPPH), Ferrous Ion Chelating activity (FICA), Superoxide Anion Scavenging (SOAS), Phosphomolybdenum reducing power (PMo) and Ferric Reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays of R. serrata. The antioxidant activities in leaf were strongly correlated with total phenolics (PMo R² = 0.433 and FICA, R² = 0.326 both significant), those in root were also correlated with total phenolics (FICA, R² = 0.798, DPPH, R² = 0.717, FRAP, R² = 0.551, PMo, R² = 0.500 all values significant). In leaf, the antioxidant activities were correlated with total flavonoid content (PMo, R² = 0.445 significant), in roots were strongly correlated with total flavonoid content, with all values significant (DPPH, R² = 0.532, FICA, R² = 0.840, FRAP, R² = 0.571).

6 illus, 1 table, 56 ref

006699   KHAN M S, DAS K, RAJASEKHARAN P E (Plant Genetic Resources Div, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore- 560 080, Email: drkkdsd@gmail.com) : Chromatographic quantification of polyphenol in relation to potential antioxidant activity and isolation of DNA from in vitro cultivated Decalepis nervosa Wight & Arn. leaf explant. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 141-9.

The objective of the present study was to perform in vitro micropropagation as well as the growth of callus from the leaf explant of Decalepis nervosa Wight & Arn. (DN) (Family: Apocynaceae), a climber woody medicinal plant. Addition of silicon (Si) as sodium and potassium silicate in the MS media helped in fast micropropagation, callus development and organogenesis of the explant which was modified technique in plant tissue culture of the said plant. Silicon ion also helped in avoiding browning of callus. Therefore, an alternate in vitro tissue culture method was established using sodium silicate and potassium silicate using varying concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5 mg/l to overcome the challenges when compared with the normal MS media. Half strength MS medium supplemented with BAP at 0.2 mg/l and NAA at 2.5 mg/l gave callus growth in 21 days and resulted in more accumulation of gallic acid. Thereafter, direct rooting and shoots of meristem occurred with IBA and Si as sodium silicate (IBA at 2 mg/l and Na2 SiO3 at 2.5 mg/l), supplemented in half-strength MS media along with coconut water, within 18 days. Further, gallic acid in the methanol callus extract was estimated by the HPLC method and analyzed for antioxidant activity, using DPPH assay method. Finally, leaf DNA extraction was carried out (starting of genotype analysis) by CTAB (cetyl trimethylammonium bromide) method for purification of DNA and nanodrop method for quantification of the same. Finally, the results concluded that potassium silicate enhanced the production of phenolic content when analyzed by HPLC method, proved antioxidant activity as well as improved root formation in a very short time. Thereafter, single DNA pure band was identified and quantified which is essential for future research on new drug discovery.

9 illus, 4 tables, 42 ref

006731   WALI A F, HAMAD E A, KHAZANDAR A A, AL-AZZAWI A M, SARHEED O A, MENEZES G A, ALAM A (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, RAK Medical and Health Sciences Univ, Ras Al Khaimah- 11172, United Arab Emirates, Email: farooq@rakmhsu.ac.ae) : Antimicrobial and in vitro antioxidant activity of Salvia officinalis L. against various re-emergent multidrug resistance microbial pathogens. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 115-20.

Routine antimicrobial testing was evaluated by using agar disk-diffusion testing method. The total phenolic, total flavonoid content, 2, 2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) and 1, 1-diphenyl2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) antioxidant activity were also performed on the extract/fractions. The results revealed fraction II possess maximum total phenolic and flavonoids content (330 ± 9.81 mg GAE/g and 106 ± 6.23 mg NE/g, respectively). Salvia officinalis L. extract and it's all fractions (I and II) exhibited antioxidant potential, but fraction II displayed significant DPPH and ABTS antioxidant potential, having an IC50 value of 49.43 ± 6.21 µg/ml and 76.88 ± 7.42 µg/ml, respectively. The fraction II displayed substantial activity against clinical isolates for both Gram-positive bacteria (93 A, P 15 and P 9 Staphylococcus aureus), but against Gram-negative bacteria (715 Escherichia coli and ETT 10 and P 34 Klebsiella sp.). There were no inhibition in the growth of the microbes. S. officinalis extract and fractions would be useful to reduce the infectious diseases, caused by various re-emergent multidrug resistance microbial pathogens or slow the advancement of different oxidative stress related ailments. However, further study is needed to isol ation and characterization of bioactive molecu les, which ma y provide potential benefits source of na tural antioxidants and antimicrobial properties.

2 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

006677   BOUATROUS Y (Natural Sciences and Life Dep, Mohamed Khider Univ, Biskra, Algeria, Email: y.bouatrous@univ-biskra.dz) : Antibacterial activity of an essential oil and various extracts of the medicinal plant Thymus hirtus sp. algeriensis Boiss. & Reut. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 108-12.

Bacteria are most often implicated in cases of food poisoning and the extensive use of chemical, antibacterial agents in the medication leads to the selection of resistant bacterial strains. The essential oils of medicinal and aromatic plants can be used as an alternative for the treatment of infectious diseases and for the protection of food against any alteration. This study was carried out in order to examine in vitro the antibacterial activity of the essential oil of Thymus, ethanolic and aqueous extracts are tested on pathogenic bacteria: (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella entertica), responsible for the toxins food infections in Algeria. The essential oil revealed variable antibacterial activities against the bacterial strains tested except the Pseudomonas aerugionsa strain. However, the ethanolic extract shows particularly remarkable antibacterial activity on Staphylococcus aureus only with a inhibition zone of the order of (10.91 ± 0.05). The aqueous extract showed no antibacterial activity. The evaluation also of the association effect of the essential oil of an aromatic plant (Thymus algeriensis) and an antibiotic gentamycin on four bacterial strains, one gram-positive and the other three gram-negative, gives us very important results regarding the association between thyme essential oil and gentamycin which appeared more effective compared to the use of each separate compound.

1 illus, 6 tables, 41 ref

006675   BHATT P R, PANDYA K B, PATEL U D, MODI C M, PATEL H B, JAVIA B B (Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh- 362 001, Email: urvesh1981@yahoo.com) : Antidiabetic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of medicinal plants collected from nearby area of Junagadh, Gujarat. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 75-84.

The present study was planned to carry out phytochemical analysis and to evaluate in vitro antidiabetic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of different extracts of six medicinal plants collected from the nearby area of Junagadh, Gujarat, India, viz., Luffa echinata Roxb. (fruit), Operculina turpethum (L.) Silva Manso (leaf), Sphaeranthus indicus L. (fruit), Cressa cretica L. (leaf), Corchorus depressus L. (root) and Cassia absus (seed). An in vitro antidiabetic activity was evaluated by alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibition methods, antioxidant activity by DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl) assay and anti-inflammatory activity by albumin denaturation assay. Hydro-alcoholic and methanolic extracts of L.echinata, water extract of C.cretica and methanolic and hydro-alcoholic extracts of C. depressus showed significant inhibition either of alpha-amylase or alpha-glucosidase or both in vitro at various concentrations. Hydro-alcoholic and methanolic extracts of L. echinata fruit and hydroalcoholic and methanolic extracts of S. indicus fruit showed significant in vitro antioxidant effect. Water extract of O. turpethum leaf showed significant anti-inflammatory activity by preventing albumin denaturation in vitro. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of glycosides, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins and steroids in different extracts of medicinal plants which might be responsible for significant in vitro antidiabetic, antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities. Identification and isolation of active substances from such plants and in vivo efficacy evaluation will be helpful for further validation of pharmacological activities of these medicinal plants.

6 illus, 4 tables, 45 ref

006683   DAS K (Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Dep, Krupanidhi Coll of Pharmacy, Bengaluru- 56003, Karnataka, Email: drkkdsd@gmail.com) : Authentic identification and new drug discovery from natural plant based constituents through DNA bar-coding: A challenging task to the researchers. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 19-27.

Education provides thumb impression to signature whereas technology provides signature to thumb impression. Signature is copied in many cases but thumb impression never be copied. Such an important technology is DNA bar coding in plant species which a new biological tool for organismal biologists to increase their understanding of the environment especially authentication of all individual plants and phylogenetic construction. DNA bar code helps to determine the correct identification of a plant sample in a rapid, repeatable, and reliable fashion to conserve world biodiversity. Not only that, it is a powerful tool in systematics, ecology, evolutionary biology, including community assembly, species interaction networks, taxonomic discovery, and assessing priority areas for ecological and environmental protection. Furthermore, plant DNA bar codes are useful in the regulatory areas where endangered species and commercial products (viz., Foods and plant based supplements) are observed by the forensic investigators. Even though, application of genetic markers in the field of biological and commercial products by adopted genomic sequencing technologies are more efficient and cost effective workflow. Therefore, plant based DNA barcode is necessary and essential to preserve in the form of a library (through DNA amplification) which is the major challenges ahead in future, i.e., on building the global plant DNA barcode library to contribute toward the discovery of overlooked plant species around the globe.

7 illus, 40 ref

005353   ALSANOSY R M (Jazan Univ, Jazan, Saudi Arabia) : Individual and integrated effects of potential determinants of chronic use, withdrawal symptoms and reward of Catha edulis (Khat) amongst regular users. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-B, 135-40.

Abstract The current study was designed to investigate the demography, pattern of use, individual and integrated determinants of chronic use, withdrawal symptoms and reward of Khat amongst regular users in Saudi Arabia. This community-based and cross-sectional study was performed in 2016. Data were collected from 514 regular users with structured and self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive analysis, Chisquared test of association, factor analysis and logistic regression were performed using SPSS software. Variables included in the logistic regression model were marital status, residence, age of starting Khat chewing, chewing experience (Years), time of chewing session and post-session action of Khat (time in hours). Principal components analysis (PCA) with orthogonal transformation was used to check possibly correlated variables. Majority of the respondents are married, possess pre-university education, are employed, less than 42 years old and live in urban areas. The average of age of starting Khat chewing is 18.57 ± 3.09 years old. The average of Khat chewing experience is 15 ± 9.48 years and about 40% are using it on daily basis. Post-session effect of Khat was observed to last for 2.17±1.5 hours. Sense of vigor and alertness and sexual performance improvement were felt by 97.5 % and 64.4 %, respectively. 434(84.4 %) of the sample rewarded euphoria and relaxation and a sense of complacency upon use of Khat. PCA revealed the extraction of four factors which explained 69.14 % of the total variance expected in the questions regarding rewarding. It is observed that 69.3 %, 47.7 %, 42.4 %, 46.7 % and 30.7 %, experienced hostility towards others, insomnia, violence towards others, anorexia and weight loss, respectively. Factor analysis showed the extraction of four factors which explained 69.99% of the total variance expected in the questions regarding withdrawal symptoms of Khat cessation. Modeling of chronic use revealed a significant dependence on age of starting Khat chewing and chewing experience (years). This study gave new ideas regarding Khat withdrawal symptoms and reward in Saudi Arabia. It provides a significant task in depicting information to shape coherent awareness for preventive and clinical interventions.

5 tables, 32 ref

005379   HAMMAM K, AMER A, NORELDEIN T (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Dep, Horticulture Research Institute, Giza, Egypt) : Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides L.) yield and its water use efficiency affected by different plant populations under reclaimed soil conditions. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-B, 126-34.

Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides) is one of the promising plants as raw materials in perfumery industry but it has not been widely introduced in Egypt. Where irrigation and plant population density are important factors in plant growth, a field experiment was conducted at the Experimental Farm of South El-Tahrir, El- Behira governorate, Horticulture Research Institute during the two successive seasons of 2017 and 2018 to establish optimal irrigation rate and plant population densities for vetiver in sandy soils under drip irrigation system using split plot design with three replications. The treatments of three irrigation rates were I1= 1.2, I2= 1.0, and I3= 0.80 of evapotranspiration (ETo), and three plant population densities (D1= 25,000, D2= 38,000 and D3= 50,000 plants /fed), where irrigation treatments were assigned in the main plot and densities were assigned in the split plot. Results indicated that vetiver yield, yield components, and water use efficiency (WUE) increased with I2 and increasing plant population densities. Significant interaction effects between irrigation rate and plant population density were detected in both seasons for yield components, and WUE. The highest growth vegetative and yield parameters, plant height, number of tillers/plant, root length, fresh and dry weight/ plant and /fed. and WUE were obtained from plants irrigated with I1, while the highest values from root length and oil percentage were found in I2. The maximum proline value was obtained under I3. On the other hand, plant density at D2 resulted the highest value from number of tillers/plant, root length, fresh and dry weights per plant and oil percentage. High density at D3 gave the highest root length. While the highest value of proline came from D1 in both seasons.

7 tables, 69 ref

005352   ALI A M, SAEED A A M, FDHEL T A (Chemistry Dep, Aden Univ, Aden, Yemen) : Phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial screening of selected Yemeni folk medicinal plants. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-B, 108-14.

For along period of time, medicinal plants have played a vital role in the treatment of many diseases. The present study was carried out to evaluate phytochemical analysis of aqueous, methanol, ethanol, and chloroform crude extracts and antimicrobial screening of four Yemeni folk medicinal plants. The phytochemical analysis of the plant extracts revealed presence alkaloids, tannins, glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, vitamin K and vitamin C in all study plants. The antimicrobial activity of solvent extracts of Plectranthus asirensis, Plectranthus amboinicus Lavandula pubescens Decne, and Dorstenia foetida plants were inspected against the selected experimental pathogens such as K. pneumoniae, E. coli, S. epidermis, S. aureus, and C. albicans by agar well diffusion method. The results showed that extract from the investigated plants had antimicrobial activity in which ethanol and methanol extracts showed the highest values.

2 illus, 6 tables, 39 ref

005392   MANOHARAN B, CHINNAPPAN R S (Botany Dep, Vivekanandha Coll of Arts and Sciences for Women, Tiruchengode, Tamil Nadu) : A study on medicinal and commercial uses of sacred groves of Namakkal district, Tamil Nadu, India. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-B, 101-7.

Conservation of biodiversity is essential and major goal for us to protect the environment. Traditional belief with sanctified manners had a vital role in the conservation of plants and their habitat. People across the Nations had an immense belief in their spiritual habitation and sustainability. It promotes us to protect the plants and utilize them in different medicine from the sacred groves to the level of in-situ type of conservation. Indigenous people and the local communities depend on the sacred grooves for their spiritual and medicinal purpose. But in recent years the urbanisation plays an adverse impact on the loss of plant diversity and destruction rate also be increased gradually. In this present investigation, we conducted periodic field survey during the months of December 2018 to July 2019. This study was performed to expose the conservation strategy of floristic diversity of sacred groves and its associated species were recorded in the entire Taluks of Namakkal district, Tamil Nadu, India. Also the medicinal and commercial value of all the plant species were documented for future reference. We found 88 miniature Sacred Groves in our study area. Totally 77 species belongs to 37 families were documented. From this study the family Fabaceae species were found to be dominant and Azadirachta indica is keystone species, it is found in 63 groves in the study area.

1 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

005378   GHAZAL E M A A (Botany Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad, Maharashtra) : Taxonomic studies on the family asteraceae (Compositae) of Hajjah governorate, West of Yemen. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-B, 90-100.

Taxonomic investigation of the family Asteraceae (Compositae) in Hajjah governorate was taken for two consecutive seasons in the period between 2016-2018. A total of 35 species under 28 genera of the family Asteraceae were collected and identified, the dominant genera was Pulicaria which represented by three species, followed by the genera Kleinia, Senecio, Tagetes and Xanthium, which followed by two species each.

1 illus, 13 ref

005396   NISHI J F, ARMAN S, JANNAT K, RAHMATULLAH M (Pharmacy Dep, Development Alternative Univ, Dhaka- 1207) : Plants, holy book and esoteric methods: All go together in folk medicinal healing in Bangladesh. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-B, 86-9.

Although folk medicine in Bangladesh is mostly dependent on plants for treatment of diseases, such phytotherapy is occasionally augmented with incantations (reading from holy books), amulets and other esoteric practices. The objective of the present study was to document the multi-modal folk medicine (FM) practice by two folk medicinal practitioners (FMPs) of Brahmanbaria district, Bangladesh. Although they used plants as an essential ingredient for disease treatment, such treatment was augmented with readings from the holy Quran and esoteric practices like using plants from three directions, uprooting plant in one breath, and tying of plant parts to the head. Altogether, nine plant species distributed into nine families were used in their treatment methods. The efficacies of esoteric practices along with the pharmacological properties of the plants are discussed.

1 table, 43 ref

005346   ABIODUN A A, TUNJI B H (Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, Ibadan, Nigeria) : Medicinal weed diversity and ethno-medicinal weeds in Odigbo local government area, Ondo State, Nigeria. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-B, 81-5.

Quests for natural sources of medicine is on the increase due to hazardous side-effects of orthodox medicine on human health. Forests and reserve areas have been the main targets of local medicine PR actioners since the time immemorial and this continues to pose unquantifiable threats on forest resources especially trees species whose parts are relied on for local medicine preparations. This study documented 56 medicinal weeds belonging to 49 genera and 25 families commonly used in Odigbo Local Government Area Ondo State for approximately 75 ailments. The family Amaranthaceae are commonly used for kidney diseases, gonorrhoea and inflammations, Poaceae are commonly used as fevers and cough remedies, Euphorbiacae are popular for stomach troubles, while Fabaceae are prominent for diarrhoea cures. Whole plants were commonly Use for herbal preparations followed by leaves (26 %) and stem (9 %). Weeds are economical plant resources and good alternative to trees species for local medicine preparations. However, their importance due to perceived unwanted nature has undermined their values in this respect. Thus, information provided in this work will not only create awareness about medicinal importance of weed but also serve as background information for research scientists who may wish to carry out research on phytochemistry or ethnomedicinal importance of these weeds.

2 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

005350   AKTER L, SULTANA S, HOSSAIN M L (Khulna Univ, Khulna, Bangladesh) : Assessment of analgesic and neuropharmacological activity of ethanol leaves extract of Gynura procumbens (Family: Asteraceae). J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-A, 52-6.

Gynura procumbens belonging to Asteraceae family is a medicinal plant commonly found in tropical Asian countries such as Bangladesh, India, China, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Traditionally, it is widely used in many different countries for the treatment of a wide variety of health ailments such as kidney discomfort, rheumatism, diabetes mellitus, constipation, and hypertension. Based on the traditional uses of G. procumbens, it seems to possess high therapeutic potential for treatment of various diseases making it a target for pharmacological studies aiming to validate and provide scientific evidence for the traditional claims of its efficacy. As part of our ongoing research of traditional medicinal plant, this study evaluated the analgesic and neuropharmacological activity of Ethanol Extract of Gynura procumbens (EEGP) leaves. The analgesic effect of EEGP was determined by acetic acid induced writhing test, tail immersion test and hot plate test using swiss albino mice as experimental animal. Open field and hole cross test were used to determine the neuropharmacological activi.y of EEGP. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannin, flavonoids, steroids, glycoside, alkaloids and terpenoids. The present study demonstrated that EEGP showed significant analgesic (p<0.05) effect at the dose level of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight in acetic acid induced writhing test, tail immersion test and hot plate test. EEGP decreased the movement of mice significantly at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight in open field and hole cross test. The present study indicates that EEGP possess analgesic and neuropharmacological activity in a dose-dependent manner. Hence, the present work was undertaken to evaluate and co-relate the bioactivity with the traditional uses of G. procumbens. So, the plant may be further subjected to chemical investigation to isolate the bioactive compound(s) responsible for its pharmacological activity.

6 tables, 18 ref

005390   LOVELY N, SHORNA A A, RAHMATULLAH M (Pharmacy Dep, Development Alternative Univ, Dhaka, Bangladesh) : Solutions to complex diseases may be in common plants: Folk medicinal experiences in Lakshmipur district, Bangladesh. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-A, 35-8.

Only a tiny fraction of the 250,000 or more plant species of the world has been explored for their therapeutic properties. It is quite possible that the solutions to the treatment of many complex diseases may lie in plants that are very commonly seen. The objective of this study was to document the phytotherapeutic practices of a folk medicinal practitioner (FMP) of Lakshmipur district, Bangladesh who used commonly available plants to treat complex diseases. The FMP claimed to cure diseases of heart, kidney and liver with fruits of Citrullus lanatus (watermelon). Breast cancer and liver disorders were treated by him with black grapes (Vitis vinifera black variety). Plant parts from Zingiber officinale (Ginger) and Artocarpus heterophyllus (jackfruit) were used by the FMP for treatment of obesity and heart attacks, respectively. Scientific validations of the folk medicinal practices of the FMP can lead to important drug discoveries.

1 table, 41 ref

005349   AKOTO C O, ACHEAMPONG A, BOAKYE Y D, TAKYI S, GARBA R (Chemistry Dep, Science and Technology Univ, Kumasi, Ghana) : Phytochemical screening and in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the extracts of the stem-bark of Psydrax peruviana. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-A, 28-34.

The stem-bark of Psydrax peruviana is used in folkloric medicine in the treatment of gonorrhoea and syphilis. In this study, methanol and hexane extracts of P. peruviana were evaluated for antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Phytochemical screening, antimicrobial (agar and broth dilution method) and antioxidant (total antioxidant capacity (TAC), DPPH and H₂O₂ scavenging) assays were carried out on the extracts. The hexane and methanol extracts showed antimicrobial activity against test organisms with MICs ranging from 1.25 – 20 mg/mL. The IC₅₀ values for methanol and hexane extracts in the DPPH and H₂O₂ assays were 12.20 and 24.26 µg/mL and 1143.0 and 2872.0 µg/mL, respectively. The TAC (gAAE/100 g) for methanol and hexane extracts were 21.563 and 17.389 g, respectively. The phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of plant secondary metabolites such as tannins, flavonoid, glycosides, terpenoids, steroids, carotenoids and saponins. These findings provide scientific justification for the use of P. peruviana in various traditional medicines, for the treatment and management of diseases.

2 illus, 8 tables, 33 ref

005368   CHANDOLA V, NAUTIYAL A R, CHANDRA S, KUMAR R R (Garhwal Univ, Garhwal, Uttarakhand) : A review on prioritizing conservation of Himalayan medicinal plant species: Case of Trillium govanianum (Wall. ex D. Don) kunth. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-A, 23-7.

The Himalayan region harbors rich plant diversity owing to its mountainous topography, altitudinal gradient and climatic conditions. Large number of these plant species is used in healthcare. Collection of such species from nature has been in practice for long time but growing interest in herbal medicines has led to increased demand of these medicinal plants at regional as well as global level that has put this treasure under pressure. Overexploitation of such species from their natural habitats to meet the growing demand has resulted in many plant species facing varying degree of threat to their survival. Medicinal plants inhabiting the alpine and subalpine region of the Himalayas are more vulnerable to such pressure owing to their stressful habitat characteristics and unique regeneration behaviour. Trillium govanianum (Wall. ex D. Don) Kunth, locally known as Nagchhatri, is one such highly valuable herb with potent medicinal properties. In recent past the species has come under huge pressure due to its increasing illegal trading. This has been reported for Himachal Pradesh but our exploratory survey in Uttarakhand revealed that collection and trading of the herb is also in practice in the state. The herb is reportedly being traded at current price of Rs. 2500/kg, and almost 30-35 Quintals of the herb has been sold alone from Chamoli district in just three years. Similar information has surfaced from J&K too in some internet blogs. However, no published information of the illegal trading of T. govanianum from any state other than H.P. could be found. The herb has been under study in Pakistan, Japan and India for its medicinal activities, origin and genome sequencing etc. but so far no evident work on the regeneration of the herb has been done. Also, different medicinal plant species have been prioritized for conservation but mention of this species could not be found. Therefore, T. govanianum is in desperate need of conservation as its natural regeneration capacity is far behind its illegal extraction which can lead to the extinction of the species from nature very soon. Keeping this in view, a study is being undertaken by the authors to determine status of the species in its natural distribution region, reasons for recent upsurge in its demand, magnitude of its collection from nature and devising strategy for its conservation.

3 illus, 30 ref

005397   OBOUAYEBA A P, KOFFI A E, AKREWE D S T, N’GUESSAN K A, ACKAH B A A J, KOUAKOU T H, N’GUESSAN J D (Jean Lorougnon Guédé Univ, Daloa, Côte d’Ivoire) : Ethnopharmacological study of medicinal plants sold in some markets in Haut-Sassandra (Central West, Côte d’Ivoire). J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-A, 13-22.

The Haut-Sassandra region in west-central Côte d’Ivoire provides a significant share of domestic production of food and export products. The local population responsible for this production is generally treated with medicinal plants for various reasons. It became important to know the pathologies affecting this population and the plants used to treat them. Thus, an ethnopharmacological survey was conducted among 100 people in four localities (Daloa, Gonaté, Guessabo and Zoukougbeu). The procedure adopted in this study was a semi-directive interview based on a pre-elaborated questionnaire. The ethnopharmacological fact sheet consists of two main parts. The first relates to socio-demographic information about the respondent. The second part concerns the botanical and pharmacological characteristics of the plants surveyed. The majority of women herbalists (97 %) are between 41 and 50 years old. The vast majority of herbalists have no grade level (97 %) and 78 % are married. The medicinal plants used in Haut-Sassandra, the trees are mostly (76 %) and the leaves are the most used organs (51 %). The decoction is the most used method (71 %) and the drink (45 %) dominates the other routes of administration. In addition, malaria treated conditions are the most cited (24.54 %). Fifty-three (53) medicinal species were identified belonging to 35 families and that of Rubiaceae is more represented (7.40 %). 30 % of medicinal plants have various pharmacological properties in the literature. Finally, this study shows that traditional medicine really contributes to the health care of the population and deserves to be accompanied. The identified medicinal plants will guide future research into natural substances for the development of improved traditional medicines.

10 illus, 3 tables, 65 ref

005395   MUZZAFAR A, MODI S, JAVAID M, NISAR N (Botany Dep, Rabindranath Tagore Univ, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh) : Ethnobotanical studies of medicinal plants of barie/sarbal mountain range in District Anantnag of South Kashmir, J&K, India. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-A, 7-12.

The aim of this dissertation is to study the distribution of medicinal knowledge among the people of Kapran, Gwass, Nowgam Nard, and Heingpora, in particular, why some plant species are in need, collected and used by people of the area than those of less common plants. An ethno botanical study of medicinal plants was conducted in growing seasons from June 2018 to May 2019 in Braie\Sarbal mountain range of valley (Kapran) in J & K region of India. A total of 32 Informants were selected from 4 villages. A total of 50 plant species distributed across 49 genera and 24 families were identified to have medicinal importance. Population studies show that most medicinal knowledge is idiosyncratic. Plant morphology and taste are very important in individual cognitive models in recognizing the medicinal importance of plant species. Emic perception of efficiency is the variable that most accounts for the distribution of medicinal knowledge.

8 tables, 14 ref

005399   PAWAR H A, CHOUDHARY P D, KAMAT S R (Quality Assurance Dep, L. H. Hiranandani Coll of Pharmacy, Ulhasnagar, Maharashtra, Email: hapkmk@rediffmail.com) : An overview of traditionally used herb, Colocasia esculenta, as a phytomedicine. Med Aromat Plants 2019, 7(4), 317.

Colocasia esculenta (C. esculenta) is a widely cultivated plant for consumption of both leaves and tubers. Taro, a common name for the corms and tubers of several genera of the family Araceae, is a source of edible corms of C. esculenta. It is majorly cultivated in Southeast Asia by several common names like Arbi, Arvi and Eddoe. From this species, a wide range of chemical compounds have been isolated for example, flavanoids, β-sitosterol, steroids, etc. Various parts of C. esculenta are used traditionally to treat number of diseases. Extracts from this plant have been found to possess various pharmacological activities. The leaves of this plant have been studied to possess antihelminthic, anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory actions. There have also been reports proving hypoglycemic efficacy of C. esculenta due to the presence of cyanoglucoside. The present review tries to cover all the information available on research work of this plant in yesteryears in a nutshell with the intention to serve as a literature platform for further researches on this plant.

1 illus, 3 tables, 36 ref

005375   ELUSIYAN C A, OLAWUNI I, OLUGBADE T A, ORAFIDIYA O, MCDONALD A (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, Obafemi Awolowo Univ, Osun-State, Nigeria, Email: tolugba@oauife.edu.ng) : Acetylcholinesterase inhibitory effect and characterization of the essential oil of Plectranthus aegyptiacus (Forssk.) C. Chr. growing in Nigeria. Med Aromat Plants 2019, 7(4), 316.

Essential oil of fresh leaves of Plectranthus aegyptiacus (Forssk.) C. Chr. collected in Nigeria was analyzed to determine its chemotype. A total of 30 compounds were identified. Constituents identified were mainly mono and sesquiterpenoids with the major components, accounting for about 76 % of the components, being α-terpinene (6.9 %), p-cymene (14.2 %), γ-terpinene (5.5 %), carvacrol (10.0 %), α-copaene (5.3 %), α-caryophyllene (5.8 %), germacrene-D (11.6 %), δ-cadinene (8.4 %) and α-cadinol (8.4 %). The essential oil showed anticholinesterase inhibitory activity with an IC50 of 8.29 ± 0.67 mg/ml.

1 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

005362   BIAN H, ZHANG L, CHEN L, WANG W, JI H, DONG H (Plant Pathology Dep, Nanjing Agricultural Univ, Nanjing- 210 095, Email: 6020160135@jsnu.edu.cn) : Real-time monitoring of translocation of selected type-III effectors from Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae into rice cells. J Biosci 2019, 44(4), 82.

Type-III (T3) effectors PthXo1 and AvrXa10 of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae are translocated into rice cells to induce virulence and avirulence on susceptible- and resistant-rice varieties Nipponbare and IRBB10, respectively. The translocation needs the bacterial T3 translocator Hpa1 and rice Oryza sativa plasma membrane protein OsPIP1;3. Here, we employed the b-lactamase (BlaM) reporter system to observe PthXo1 and AvrXa10 translocation. The system was established to monitor effectors of animal-pathogenic bacteria by quantifying the BlaM hydrolysis product [P] and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) of the substrate. The feasibility of the BlaM reporter in rice protoplasts was evaluated by three criteria. The first criterion indicated differences between both [P] and FRET levels among wild types and OsPIP1;3-overexpressing and OsPIP1;3-silenced lines of both Nipponbare and IRBB10. The second criterion indicated differences between [P] and FRET levels in the presence and absence of Hpa1. The last criterion elucidated the coincidence of PthXo1 translocation with induced expression of the PthXo1 target gene in protoplasts of Nipponbare and the coincidence of AvrXa10 translocation with induced expression of the AvrXa10 target gene in protoplasts of IRBB10. These results provide an experimental avenue for real-time monitoring of bacterial T3 effector translocation into plant cells with a pathological consequence.

7 illus, 40 ref