005371   CHHABRA R, SHABNAM, SINGH T (Botany Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana, Email: rohit-bot@pau.edu) : Seed aging, storage and deterioration: An irresistible physiological phenomenon. Agric Rev 2019, 40(3), 234-8.

The need for increased seed quality has become a priority necessary to face the current demand for high standards in the agricultural market. The various factors which contribute to the loss in seed quality, viability and vigour which can be either physical or physiological. Seed deterioration and ageing are considered as a force to reckon the depletion in food reserve, increased fat acidity, increased enzyme activity and membrane permeability. Quality and viability of seed during storage processes chiefly depends upon the initial status of the seed health and the manner in which it is stored. Achieving appropriate techniques can help to curtail the current agricultural crisis leading to expose of healthy plantlets in farming sector. This research review attempts to summarize and enlighten the various aspects of seed related features such as viability, ageing and deterioration.

35 ref

005358   BARUA U, DAS R P, GOGOI B, BARUAH S R (ICAR RC, Meghalaya - 793 103, Email: ubarua08@gmail.com) : Underutilized fruits of Assam for livelihood and nutritional security. Agric Rev 2019, 40(3), 175-84.

India is endowed with a rich genetic diversity of fruits. The Hindustani centre represents 344 species of fruits. Northeast India, meeting ground of Indo-Malayan and Indo-Chinese bio-geographical areas is one of the 18 mega-biodiversity centers of the World, has contributed the fruit genera like Citrus, Musa, Mangifera, Docynia, Elaeocarpus, Myrica, Morus, Artocarpus, etc. There are a quite large number of indigenous and underutilized fruit crops, which are being used by the local inhabitants in rural areas. These underutilized fruits are fairly rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidant properties and are serving as protective food. Because of their curative properties, different parts of these fruit and plants have been used in ethno-medicines. Apart from their nutritive and medicinal values quite a few of these underutilized fruits have good flavor, colour and juice content and can be used for value additions. Several underutilized fruit species which have potential for commercial exploitation are yet to be utilized to their potential. These fruit crops have not undergone any conscious phase of domestication and selection. Their cultivation is very restricted and they grow in wild and semi wild condition and adapted to local climatic conditions. Hence they can thrive even under most adverse situation. Their adoption on a commercial scale, with crop improvement, standardization of cultural practices and popularization in diverse farming systems and value additions are warranted to achieve stability in farm production and food security. Many underutilized species, well adapted to marginal lands and with low cost inputs, may thus be of great benefit for the survival of poor communities, employment generation and sustainability of agricultural ecosystems.

14 tables, 34 ref

004237   SINGH V, SINGH S P, SAKLANI S, PATWAL P (Pharmacology & Toxicology Dep, G. B. Pant Univ of Ag & Technology, Pantnagar- 263 145, Email: vaibhavsingh450@gmail.com) : Phytochemical analysis of Rhododendron arboreum leaf extracts. J Vet Pharmacol Toxicol 2019, 18(1), 74-5.

This study was undertaken for qualitative phytochemical analysis of hydroethanolic, hydromethanolic, acetone and aqueous extracts of Rhododendron arboreum leaves. Plant leaves were collected from the hilly area of Uttarakhand and various extracts were prepared. On phytochemical analysis, different extracts showed the presence of phytochemical groups such as flavonoids, anthraquinones, tannins, sterols, reducing sugars, resins, and proteins. Hydroethanolic extract was found to have the wide range of phytochemical groups in comparison to hydromethanolic, acetone and aques extracts. Aqueous extract contained the least number of phytochemical groups.

1 table, 6 ref

004236   SINGH V, SINGH S P, SAKLANI S, PATWAL P (Pharmacology & Toxicology Dep, G. B. Pant Univ of Ag & Technology, Pantnagar- 263 145, Email: vaibhavsingh450@gmail.com) : In vitro antioxidant potential of Rhododendron arboreum leaf extracts. J Vet Pharmacol Toxicol 2019, 18(1), 66-8.

The study was carried out to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant potential of hydroethanolic and hydromethanolic extract of Rhododendron arboreum. Hydroethanolic extract showed 90.55 % and hydromethanolic extract 84.14 % DPPH scavenging activity at 250 μg/ml concentrations, respectively. The IC₅₀ values of hydroethanolic and hydromethanolic extracts were 65.47 μg/ml and 65.40 μg/ml, respectively. ABTS scavenging activity of R. arboreum showed a significant (P< 0.05) increase in antioxidant activity viz., 83.61 % whereas hydromethanolic extract showed 78.41 % at 250 μg/ml. The IC₅₀ values of hydroethanolic and hydromethanolic extracts were 70.81 μg/ml, 70.94 μg/ml, respectively. On assay of nitric oxide synthetase activity, the maximum activity was observed in hydroethanolic extract followed by hydromethanolic extracts of Rhododendron arboreum viz., 81.22 % and 77.28 %, respectively, at 500 μg/ml. The IC₅₀ values for hydroethanolic and hydromethanolic extracts of Rhododendron arboreum were 144.13 μg/ml and 154.34 μg/ml, respectively, which showed potent antioxidant potential. Thus, both the extract showed potent antioxidant potential, however, hydroethanolic extract showed more potent antioxidant activity than hydromethanolic extract.

3 tables, 12 ref

004213   KEWAT R R, SHARMA R K, GAUTAM V, SOMAN S (Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, NDVSU, Madhya Pradesh- 482 001, Email: rituraj.kewat@gmail.com) : In vitro antibacterial activity of endophytic bacteria isolated from Moringa oleifera leaves. J Vet Pharmacol Toxicol 2019, 18(1), 60-5.

The present study was conducted to isolate and identify endophytic bacteria from leaves of Moringa oleifera (Munga) and in vitro antibacterial activity was observed on Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. Twenty leaves samples from Moringa oleifera were taken. The leaves were sterilized and incubated into King’s B agar medium and then again sub-cultured into blood agar and then transferred into BHI broth. The morphological and biochemical characteristics of endophytic bacteria isolated from Moringa oleifera were studied. Antibacterial activity was studied by the disc diffusion method with known antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CIP) as standard. Twenty bacterial isolates from leaves of Moringa oleifera were isolated. The microscopic examination of endophytic bacteria showed that isolates from leaves of Moringa oleifera were gram negative rods. The biochemical characterization of endophytic bacterial isolates from Moringa oleifera showed positive reaction to catalase and oxidase, and negative reaction to coagulase test. All the isolates had shown negative reaction to various enzymic activity tests. Endophytic bacteria from leaves of Moringa oleifera had shown antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella Typhimurium.

1 illus, 9 tables, 17 ref

004214   KOUR H, RAINA R, VERMA P K, PANKAJ N K, SINGH S P (Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, CVSc, Pant Nagar, Uttrakhand, Email: drpawankv@yahoo.co.in) : Phytochemical ingredients and pharmacological properties of Bergenia ciliata. J Vet Pharmacol Toxicol 2019, 18(1), 1-10.

Bergenia ciliata belongs to the family Saxifragaceae, commonly called as Pashaanbheda or Zakham-e-hayat. Traditionally, Bergenia ciliata is mainly used to treat kidney stones for a long time. The plant contains very high amount of bergenin in addition to other phytochemical constituents like afzelechin, catechin, beta-sitosterol, gallic acid, tannic acid, (-)-3-0-galloylepicatechin, (-)-3-0galloylcatechin, gallicin, etc. It has number of pharmacological properties such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-tussive, anti-diabetic, anti-lithotriptic, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, etc. Hence, there is an urgent need for documentation of such tribal species and help to find innovative ways to tap its efficiency used for human welfare in future. Although, some herbal formulations containing B. ciliata are available for therapeutic applications.

1 table, 73 ref

004218   MATHEW S,TEENAMOL P T (Botany Dep, Vimala Coll, Thrissur- 680 009, Email: silvymathew110@gmail.com) : Comparative analysis of heavy metal contamination in some common tubers and vegetables of Kerala. Indian J Agric Res 2019, 53(4), 417-22.

Leafy vegetables and tubers contaminated by heavy metals will cause potential health risk to human beings. An analysis was carried out to study the heavy metal contamination in tubers and leafy vegetables at Kottayam district, Kerala. The results indicated that higher levels of lead were recorded in all of the samples analyzed when compared to the WHO permissible limits (0.1 mg/kg) for tubers and leafy vegetables, except in Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott., collected from Erattupetta market. Cadmium content was higher in both the tubers and leafy vegetables collected from Changanacherry market. Therefore, regular assessment of the accumulation of heavy metals in leafy vegetables and tubers is the need of the era. 

6 illus, 1 table, 27 ref

004200   BADGUJAR N V, MISTRY K N, RANK D N, JOSHI C G (ARIBAS, affiliated to Sardar Patel Univ, Gujarat- 388 120, Email: kinnarimistry@aribas.edu.in) : Cytotoxic effect of methanolic extracts and partially purified fractions of some medicinal plants used in traditional medication. Indian J Nat Prod Resour 2019, 10(2), 119-26.

In this study, the cytotoxic activity of methanolic extracts different parts of seven plant species was checked on NRK52E (Rat renal proximal tubular cells) using MTT assay. Based on their cytotoxic activities, methanol extract of Vitex negundo (V. negundo) was selected and their partition in hexane, chloroform, ethylacetate, butanol and water was done. Among all fractions, chloroform fraction was most active on NRK-52E cells as determined by MTT assay. In NRK-52E cells induction of apoptosis was checked by analyzing DNA fragmentation by agarose gel electrophoresis. To study the molecular mechanism of apoptosis, expression levels of different genes BCL-2, BCL-Xl, SOD, TGF, Foxo and BAX were assessed using quantitative real-time PCR. Chloroform fraction of Vitex negundo (VnCE) was found to be highly antiproliferative and also showed DNA fragmentation in NRK-52E cells. VnCE showed up regulation of BCL-2, BCL-Xl, SOD, Foxo and BAX genes and down regulation of TGF gene.

4 illus, 5 tables, 44 ref

004206   CHHETRI A, POKHREL Y, SHAHI N, LAMA D, CHHETRI D R (Botany Dep, Sikkim Univ, Gangtok- 737 102, Email: drchhetri@cus.ac.in) : Antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of Isaria amoenerosea Henn.: An entomopathogenic fungus from Darjeeling Hills, Eastern Himalaya. Indian J Nat Prod Resour 2019, 10(2), 111-8.

Isaria amoenerosea Henn., an entomopathogenic fungus parasitizing on the beetle adult was collected from the subtropical forest of Darjeeling, India. Axenic culture of the mycelia for metabolite extraction was carried out through submerged fermentation. The methanolic mycellial extract was evaluated for its antioxidant as well as cytotoxic activities. Through a series of the in-vitro antioxidant assay, it was found that the methanolic extract scavenged DPPH and ABTS radicals up to the extent of 56.17 and 83.35% respectively at the tested concentrations. The 10 mg/mL extract chelated 73.82 % of ferrous ions and it also showed an appreciable capacity to reduce ferric ions to ferrous ions. Cell viability was assessed by the MTT assay on the three human carcinoma cells: HeLa (cervical cancer), PC3 (prostate cancer) and HepG2 (hepato carcinoma). Among them, HeLa was recorded to be most susceptible exhibiting 53.48% inhibition at 100 µg/mL. The total phenol and flavonoid content of the extract was 11.58 ± 0.12 and 9 ± 2.1 µg/mg of gallic acid equivalent respectively. The evidence presented herein suggests that the mycelial methanolic extract indicates a correlation between the presence of varied functional groups (FTIR spectrum) and antioxidative as well as cytotoxic activities. No direct test of the hypothesis has been made which demands further investigations.

7 illus, 33 ref

004234   SINGH N, SINGH S, MAURYA P, ARYA M, KHAN F, DWIVEDI D H, SARAF S A (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Univ, Lucknow- 226 025, Email: shubhini.saraf@gmail.com) : An updated review on Physalis peruviana fruit: Cultivational, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical aspects. Indian J Nat Prod Resour 2019, 10(2), 97-110.

Plants have always been rich sources of medicinally active constituents in the quest for curing numerous diseases. Among those, Physalis peruviana has been utilized traditionally as a therapeutic (antispasmodic, diuretic, antiseptic, sedative, and analgesic) and nutraceutical herb. It contains numerous active components like essential minerals, α-linolenic acid, iron, vitamins, carbohydrates, phytosterols etc. Its potential as a multifunctional agent in beverages, foods and nutraceutical industries makes it an important crop for consideration. From the agricultural point of view, this fruit is a profitable commercial crop for arid regions also and does not require much effort and investment for cultivation. It easily grows in wild and arid regions. Despite being a nutraceutical and a medicinally important crop, its utilization is not up to the mark. Thus the objective of the present review was to explore and emphasize the nutraceutical and therapeutic potential of Physalis peruviana. It provides exhaustive insight into the origin, distribution, cultivation, harvesting, active constituents and its prospective utility in food, nutrition and pharmaceutical industries.

3 illus, 111 ref

004239   TAVAKOLI S A, MIRZAEI S, RAHIMI M, TAVASSOLIAN I (Biotechnology Dep, Graduate Univ of Advanced Technology, Kerman- 76315-117, Iran, Email: s.mirzaei@kgut.ac.ir) : Assessment of peppermint, clove, cumin essential oils and silver nano particles on biochemical and shelf life of Citrus limon (L.). Indian J Biochem Biophys 2019, 56(4), 269-75.

Natural and chemical compounds are used to increase the biochemical and shelf life of citrus fruits. The effect of nano silver particles and three essential oils: peppermint, carnation, cumin, were investigated on morphological, biochemical and shelf life of the lemon fruit. The first factor consisted of 13 different substances and the second factor was three the level of storage periods (zero, one, and two months after harvest). The results showed that the treatments significantly affected the fruit weight, diameter, length, decay percentage, total soluble solids, vitamin C, electrolyte leakage and titratable acidity. Peppermint essential oil showed a 70% reduction of decay percentage compared to with the control. Five percent of nano silver and 500 µL/L of clove essential oil maintained better fruit quality than control. Although the effects of silver nano-particle were significant, considering the environmental concerns we recommend using plant essential oils to prolong the postharvest shelf life of lemon fruits.

3 tables, 43 ref

004223   RAJENDRAN C, PRAVEENA M, MALLESHA, RASHMI V, ANILAKUMAR K R (DRDO-Defence Food Research Laboratory, Mysore- 570 011, Email: chellairajendran1@gmail.com) : Macro-micronutrients and antioxidant potentials of plants and fungal-based food from Tawang area, Arunachal Pradesh, India. Def Life Sci J 2019, 4(3), 182-9.

Certain variety of plants such as vegetables, spices and seaweed are abundantly being grown in high altitude area of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, India. Therefore, four different vegetables, spices and seaweed were taken from that particular cold region viz., finger millet, nori seaweed, pepper corn, bean along with edible higher fungi, mushroom  have  been  selected  based  on  the  higher  consumption  of  people  of  Northeast  India  for  the  proximate analysis, mineral, antioxidant and its potentials and vitamin contents. The nutritional studies conducted on the plant foods  and  fungi,  mushroom  in  Northeast  is  spares  with  very  few  reports  are  available.  For  this  reason,  this  study was undertaken to determine the macro and micro nutrients and antioxidant potential of these plant foods. Common bean showed higher percentage of protein with 35.09 per cent and fat percentage of the finger millet is higher (9.20 %) as compared to other varieties from other regions (1-1.5 %). Higher crude fibre was assessed in mushroom with 47.77 per cent followed with pepper corn (38.42 %), bean with 30.98 per cent, and finger millet (5.14 %). Calcium was higher in finger millet with 225.0 mg per 100 g whereas iron content was higher in mushroom with 652.0 mg followed  with  beans  (543.0  mg),  pepper  corn  (408.0  mg  per  100  g).  Higher  amount  of  polyphenols  observed  in finger millet with 8.71 μg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/mg and highest total flavonoids in pepper corn with 48.19 μg rutin (RU) equivalent per gram of dried extract. Likewise, highest FRAP in finger millet noticed with 72.0 μg of FeSO₄ equivalent/mg and reducing power (ascorbic acid equivalent/mg) in mushroom (244.0) and pepper corn (242.0). All samples had higher metal chelating activity at IC₅₀ between 86.65- 83.38. Similarly, higher amount of vit  B₆ was noted in pepper corn with 197.0 mg while lowest in seaweed with 1.76 mg/100 gm, respectively.

1 illus, 5 tables, 45 ref

004230   SAXENA C, RAWAT G (Pharmaceutics Dep, Swami Vivekanand Subharti Univ, Meerut- 250 005, Email: charusaxena18@gmail.com) : Tinospora cordifolia (Giloy) - therapeutic uses and importance: A review. Curr Res Pharm Sci 2019, 9(3), 42-5.

Natural products having medicinal value are gaining more importance in clinical research now days due to their better pharmacological response and no side effects as compared to allopathic drugs. Tinospora cordifolia common name is “Guduchi” or “Giloy” is known for its application in the treatment of various diseases in the traditional ayurvedic literature. Active components obtained from the plant and their biological function in disease control has led to active interest in the plant. This review contains venicular name of plant, various components, their uses in targeting diseases .Giloy is an very important plant for treatment of various diseases.

1 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

004232   SHARMA N, SINGH P, GUPTA S K (Pharmaceutical Technology Dep, Meerut Institute of Engineering and Technology, Meerut- 250 005, Uttar Pradesh, Email: nidhi1212sharma@gmail.com) : A review on role of various medicinal plants in cosmetics and cure health. Curr Res Pharm Sci 2019, 9(3), 37-41.

According to W.H.O, about 80 % of the world population rely mainly on herbal remedies. Traditional use of herbs for cosmetic purposes mainly based on perfuming and skin care in the form of infusions, poultices etc. It is reported that herbal sources are mostly rich with vitamins, antioxidants, oils (essential) hydrocolloids, proteins, terpenoids and other bioactive compounds which are active in the scope of cosmetics such as anti-aging, anti-oxidant, anti-septic, antiinflammatory emollient effect etc. The natural content in the herbs does not have any side effects on the human body as compared to synthetic product. Herbal extracts are processed for curing several remedies and serve other health prospective. Cosmetics alone are not sufficient to take care of skin and other body parts, it requires association of active constituents to check the damage and ageing of the skin. Herbal formulations are useful as therapeutic and cosmetic applications for the treatment of various skin disorders and also for beautifying and attractiveness of skin, hair, lips, face, eyes etc.

2 tables, 9 ref

004231   SHARIFI M, BIPINRAJ N K (Bharati Vidyapeeth, Pune, Maharashtra, Email: k.bipinraj@bharatividyapeeth.edu) : Isolation and identification of actinomycetes with anticandida activity from mangrove soil. Biosci Biotech Res Asia 2019, 16(3), 611-5.

Candida albicans, a common human commensal, is the leading cause of nosocomial infections due to the emergence of drug resistance. The present study reports the isolation and identification of actinomycetes from mangrove soil and characterization of its antagonistic activity against drug resistant Candida species. Mangrove soils from Khargar, Navi Mumbai were screened for actinomycetes with anti-candida activity. In total, 20 actinomycetes culture were isolated from mangrove soil sample, amongst the culture designated as MB was found to inhibit all tested pathogenic Candida cultures. The isolate MB was identified using biochemical tests and 16S rRNA sequencing as Streptomyces viridocromogenes. MB culture showed maximum activity after incubation period of 48 to 72 h, pH of 6.2 and temperature of 30!. Activity of the crude extract was found to be inactivated by heat treatment but resisted proteinase K, indicating the compound can be an antibiotic in nature. The study highlights the isolation of Streptomyces viridocromogenes with antagonistic activity against multidrug resistant Candida from mangrove soil. This culture is an ideal candidate for further characterization studies for anti-candida molecules.

4 illus, 13 ref

004235   SINGH R (Research Media SR, Durban- 4001, South Africa, Email: rshnsingh1@yahoo.com) : Specialised features of the red speckle bean, Phaseolus vulgaris. Bio-Sci Res Bull 2019, 35(2), 70-1.

Phaseolus vulgaris is known as the common bean. This species is common in Africa and Asian countries, since it’s easy to grow. One of the specialised features of this bean is that it is grown in moist and well-aerated soils, as well as the fact that these seeds can easily be dispersed and germinated. A lot of research has been performed in Phaseolus vulgaris, and very little is not known about plant belonging to this genus. Classroom experiments in Phaseolus vulgaris are thus trustworthy and are well-discussed examples of the earlier work performed on the red speckle bean. This paper emphasises on the specialised features prevalent in beans of Phaseolus vulgaris.

6 ref

004233   SHEOKAND N, SHARMA I, SINGH R, KAMBOJ P (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be Univ), Mullana-Ambala- 133 207 , Haryana, Email: endusharma@gmail.com) : Antimicrobial activity and phytochemical analysis of Catharanthus roseus (L). Bio-Sci Res Bull 2019, 35(2), 53-7.

Catharanthus roseus (L) a popular ornamental plant found in garden, home across the worldwhich is recognized in Ayurveda. Catharanthus is well known due to antitumor, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant and anti-mutagenic effects. It produces alkaloids, vincristine vinblastine, ajmalicine, reserpine, serpentine, catharanthaine, lochherin, lochnericine, vinorelbin extract from these plants used in disease treatment. Application of Catharanthus roseus it used treatment of asthma, blood pressure, manstruation cycle, malaria etc. Plants have proved to be significant natural resources for effective chemotherapeutic agents and offering a broad spectrum of activity with greater emphasis on preventive action. The antimicrobial activity has been checked against microorganisms like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Rhizopusarrhizus, Aspergillus sydowi, and Aspergillus fumigatus. The strongest inhibition activity of the leaf extract was observed against B. subtilis, (20 mm zone) by Aspergillus sydowi, which is 21 mm zone of inhibition. Qualitative analysis of phytochemical screening reveals the presence of terpenoids, carbohydrate alkaloids, phenol, glycoside are present.

3 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

004225   RANDIVE S D, JAGTAP M N (Botany Dep, D.B.F. Dayanand Coll of Arts & Science, Solapur- 413 002, Maharashtra, Email: sonali_dream1@rediffmail.com) : Phytochemical analysis and applications of Cynodon (L.) and Ficus bengalensis (L.) as an herbal medicine. Bio-Sci Res Bull 2019, 35(2), 48-52.

The present work was carried out to investigate the quantitative determination of their crude phytochemicals, protein contents and folic acid contain in Cynodon dactylon and Ficus bengalensis there use of as a herbal medicine. The quantitative determination of crude phytochemicals. Which including alkaloids, total phenols, flavonoids and saponins were determined quantitatively using literature methods? In present study, Leaf extract of cynodon and Ficus bengalensis Bud extract is found to be very rich source of folic acid, along with rich in phytochemicals they are being as a source of folic acid it is found to be good tonic for anaemic and pregnant ladies. Consumption of this extract or herbal medicines prepared from Cynodon leaves and Ficus buds at the time of pregnancy will reduces anaemia and increases the foetus growth. As it is an easily available everywhere and being as a herbal medicine it does not have any side effects. So in present study it is found that cynodon leaf extract and Ficus bengalensis Buds are boon for anaemic patient’s, pregnant ladies and is also used as an tonic.

2 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

004212   KALITA G, SINGHA D N, SARMA S K (Botany Dep, Nalbari Coll, Nalbari, Assam, Email: gunajit_kal@rediffmail.com) : Exotic and invasive plants (aquatic and ecotone) of Nalbari District of Assam. Int J Pharm Biol Sci 2019, 9(3), 954-65.

The exotic aquatic invasive plant species degrades wetlands and initiates succession that causes slow death and gradual loss of productive life of the wetlands. The gregarious growth of aquatic macrophytes during rainy season and subsequent accumulation of organic debris during winter season in wetlands significantly changes the characteristics of the water bodies and reduces the water spread area of the wetlands. Their luxuriant growth and subsequent death and decay, and deposition make the wetland shallow which consequently promotes succession by terrestrial species. The management of aquatic invasive weeds is very important in the wetland conservation strategy. The invasion by aquatic weeds of feeder channels of the wetlands not only clogs the drainage systems but also alters the hydrology of the wetlands. The alteration in the hydrological regime makes the water body shallower in due course of time and this in turn invites more invasions by aquatic as well as terrestrial plant species. Thus once resourceful wetland becomes hydrocere in due course of time due to invasion and subsequent succession. In this context, ecological investigations have been carried out in some of the wetlands, low-lying water logged areas, rice fields etc of Nalbari district of Assam to document the aquatic and ecotone invasive plant species. The menace of invasion by aquatic macrophytes was observed in the above mentioned places. In a typical scenario during investigation it was observed that a floodplain wetland of Pagladia river is completely invaded by aquatic weeds and practically changed its wetland characteristics into that of a marshy land. A large number of aquatic macrophytes were recorded from those wetlands, of which some of the invasive species that grows gregariously are Eichhornia crassipes, Hygroryza aristata, Cyclosorus gongyloides, Alpinia galanga, Echinochloa colonum, Ipomoea fistulosa, Ipomoea aquatica etc. Most of these aquatic weeds were present throughout the year in the wetlands of Nalbari district of Assam. Their phenological characters shows interesting features like flowering stages of some species can be observed two to three times in a year. This indicates their resilience and potential to invade and destroy the water bodies in a very short span of time.

4 illus, 3 tables, 31 ref

004219   NANDIKONDA D S, SADHU S R R (Botany Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad- 500 007, Email: ssrrao2002@rediffmail.com) : Alleviation of lead toxicity stress in mustard (Brassica juncea L.) cultivars by 24-epibrassinolide. Int J Pharm Biol Sci 2019, 9(3), 948-53.

Lead toxicity stress substantially reduced the seedling growth of three cultivars of mustard (Brassica juncea L) viz, Maya, NRCDR-2 and NRCHB-101. However exogenous application of 24- Epibrassinolide (24-EBL) in a dose dependent manner reduced the impact of lead toxicity on the seedling growth of mustard cultivars. The toxicity alleviation impact of 24-EBL was found to be more on NRCDR-2 and minimal in case of NRCHB-101 cultivars. Supplementation of 24- EBL lowered the MDA content in the seedlings of all the three mustard cultivars indicating reduced membrane peroxidation. The negative of impact of lead toxicity on protein content in mustard seedling was found reduced by 24-EBL application. Further, the toxicity amelioration by 24-EBL was reflected in elevated free proline (osmoprotectant) content. Lead toxicity reduced the activity of catalase and increased the activity of peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. 24-EBL feeding caused steep rise in the activities of all the antioxidative enzymes in mustard seedlings growing under toxic levels of lead. The present study clearly demonstrated that 24-EBL remarkably mitigated lead toxicity stress in case of three mustard cultivars by activating antioxidative enzyme activity.

3 tables, 34 ref

004238   SUNANDA C, BINDU PRASUNA A, RANGANAYAKULU G S (Botany Dep, Rayalaseema Univ, Kurnool- 518 007, Email: gsranganaayakulu@gmail.com) : Effect of NaCl stress on antioxidant metabolism in black gram (Vigna mungo L.) seedlings. Int J Pharm Biol Sci 2019, 9(3), 941-7.

The effects of salt stress on seedling growth (percent seedling survival rate, shoot and root length) and the activity of antioxidative enzymes were investigated in two important black gram cultivars (Maruthi and LBG-752) during salt stress period. Seeds were grown at different concentrations of NaCl stress [(0.0 (control), 50, 100 and 150 mM] for six days. Salt stress resulted reduced seedling growth in both cultivars. Nevertheless, the rate of decrease in seedling growth (percent seedling survival rate, shoot and root length) was significantly more in cultivar LBG-752 than cultivar Maruthi. Salt stress resulted a gradually significant increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD: EC 1.15.1.1), peroxidase (POX: 1.11.1.7), catalase (CAT: 1.11.1.6) and glutathione reductase (GR: EC 1.6.4.2) activities in both cultivars with increase in stress levels. However, a significant increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD: EC 1.15.1.1), peroxidase (POX: 1.11.1.7), catalase (CAT: 1.11.1.6) and glutathione reductase (GR: EC 1.6.4.2) enzyme activities in both cultivars with increase in stress levels. These results possibly suggest that the cultivar Maruthi showed a better protection mechanism against oxidative damage by maintaining higher constitutive and induced activities of antioxidant enzymes than the cultivar LBG-752.

4 illus, 40 ref

004229   SARASWATHI V S (Chemistry Dep, VIT Univ, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, Email: sainaturevit@gmail.com) : A mini-review on the highly important effective medicinal plants possessing insulin mimetic activity in ethnobotanical evidence of India. Int J Pharm Biol Sci 2019, 9(3), 895-906.

The vast ethnobotanical survey is found in India since the past. The values of ethnobotany have been realized over the centuries, which support the indigenous system of medicine in the healthcare sector. There are several methods of ethnobotanical research, which gives the relevant information about the medicinal plants based on the literature, herbarium, and field studies. Some plants have been reported for its active principle responsible for the treatment of disease. The detailed studies on the ethnobotanical aspects in India provide the number of ways to promote the traditional herbal medicinal plants for the benefit of the public. Diabetes mellitus is an endocrine disorder, which affects the majority of the population around the globe. Modern therapeutics are utilized to cure Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetic Mellitus, like dietary modification, oral hypoglycaemic agents, and insulin, which have their own limitations. As an exemplary source of medicine, plants have been used since ancient times. In last few decades, some of the plants have been used for the anti-diabetic activity. This review paper, Insulin mimetic, ethno-botany, Medicinal Plants, and traditional medicine were used as key words to search in Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO and EMBASE to select the relevant articles. Hence the findings emphasis on the ethnobotanical studies on various antidiabetic medicinal plants found in India and its biodiversity conservation approaches have been highlighted.

1 table, 104 ref

004221   PATI C K (Botany Dep, Saldiha Coll, Saldiha-722 173, Email: cpbotany@yahoo.co.in) : Viability extension of a grass pea seed species under ambient storage using selected chemicals. Int J Pharm Biol Sci 2019, 9(3), 886-8.

An investigation was carried out on maintenance of storage potentiation of a grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) seed species by using ascorbic acid and NaDK. Seeds pre-soaked with the ascorbic acid and NaDK (100 μg ml^-1 each) for 2 hours and stored for 180 days under ambient storage significantly arrested profuse leakage of free amino acids from seeds. Concomitantly, the reduction of percentage germination, protein level as well as activity of catalase enzyme of seed kernels during ambient storage period was ameliorated to a significant extent in the chemicalpretreated seeds. The promising effect of the experimental chemicals on seed invigouration of the grass pea species under ambient storage is apparent in this investigation.

2 tables, 17 ref

004198   ANEESH S, THOPPIL J E (Botany Dep, Calicut Univ, Kerala- 673 635, Email: aneeshswaminath@gmail.com) : Study on cytotoxicity and chemical profiling of Hexagonia tenuis (Hook.) fr., a potential bracket fungus (Polyporaceae). Int J Pharm Biol Sci 2019, 9(3), 822-31.

Biodiversity richness forms a stepping stone to medicinal researches leading to drug development. Number of plants, bacteria and fungi play an important role in traditional medicine. Hexagonia tenuis (Hook.) Fr., is a bracket fungus that belongs to the family Polyporaceae. Among the 16 species of Hexagonia, H. tenuis is mainly used for the purification, characterisation and synthesis of a thermostable enzyme called laccase. The present study aims to reveal the potential biochemical components present in H. tenuis using GC-MS analysis and to study the cytotoxic efficacy using Allium cepa root tip assay. Due to the presence of some potential chemicals such as sterols, terpenoids etc. that shows antitumor and antioxidant properties, H. tenuis has been tested for cytotoxicity using Allium cepa root tip assay. Cytotoxicity screening revealed the existence of different types of chromosomal aberrations which may form a key to further studies in animal assays also.

2 illus, 2 tables, 49 ref

004211   IYANUOLUWA A K, KAYODE J (Plant Science and Biotechnology Dep, Ekiti State Univ, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, Email: joshua.kayode@eksu.edu.ng) : Diversity of oil palm epiphytes in rainforest and guinea savanna locations in Nigeria. Bio-Sci Res Bull 2019, 35(2), 38-44.

This study investigates the diversity of oil palm epiphytes in rainforest (Ifaki-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria) and guinea savanna locations (Anyigba, Kogi State, Nigeria). Sampling of epiphytes associated with Oil Palm trees were carried out in each of the two locations. In each location, Five Oil Palm plantations were visited and sampling plot of 50 m by 50 m was laid out in each plantation. Epiphytes found growing on Oil Palm trees were observed, collected and identified. A total of 14 epiphytes belonging to 11 families were sampled in the two locations. While 5 epiphytes were obtained in Anyigba, the guinea savanna location, 11 were obtained in Ifaki-Ekiti, the rainforest location. 2 of the identified epiphytes were bryophytes and 3 were pteridophytes while 9 were angiosperms. Two of the identified pteridophytes in this study were common to the two locations thus an IS value of 0.25 was obtained in this study. The epiphytic species density and diversity of the rainforest location were higher than those of the derived guinea savanna location. Nephrolepis bisserata was the most common oil palm epiphyte in both the derived savanna and rainforest locations. The species has a relative frequency of 32.3% and 27.6% respectively. While the results obtained from the savanna location revealed the presence of some vascular plants of Ficus spp., A. conyzoides and C. odorata were the prominent epiphytic vascular plants sampled in the rainforest location. Features responsible for the ecological success of these epiphytes were discussed.

4 tables, 34 ref

004216   KUMAR G, CHANDER H (Bio-Sciences Dep, Career Point Univ, Himachal Pradesh- 176 041, Email: sharmagulshan1980@gmail.com) : Traditional usage of ethno-medicinal plants of Sikandra Hill range in Mandi District of Himachal Pradesh, India. Asian J Adv Basic Sci 2019, 7(2), 42-9.

The present paper deals with the documentation of field observations on traditional use of medicinal and aromatic plants by the inhabitants of area of Sikandra Hill range of Mandi districts of Himachal Pradesh in North-Western Himalaya. These hills range are inhabited by different ethnic groups. A large number of plants of local flora are used to cure various ailments of human and livestock. First hand information about 88 plants belonging to 41 families was recorded by conducting extensive field surveys during 2018-2019. The highest number of ethno-medicinal plants was recorded from the family Brassicaceae (8 species) followed by Cucerbitaceae (8 species), Leguminosae (6 species) Rosaceae (5 species) and Rutaceae (5 species). This study documents valuable information for traditional remedies and contributes to the usage of medicinal plants in the study area.

1 illus, 1 table, 39 ref

004210   IRSHAD K S, SIMON S, LAL A A, KHAN K Z (Plant Pathology Dep, Sam Higginbottom Univ of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj– 211 007, Uttar Pradesh) : Identification of Trichoderma species based on morphological characters and bio-efficacy against Fusarium oxysporum, Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotium sclerotianum. Ann Plant Prot Sci 2019, 27(2), 237-40.

In vitro study was carried during 2017-18 to evaluate the efficacy of Trichoderma isolates against important soil borne fungal pathogens. Under in vitro condition, the results revealed that Trichoderma sp. (isolate 5) effectively inhibited the radial mycelial growth of the pathogens viz., Fusarium oxysporum (83.0%), Sclerotium sclerotianum (68.0%) and Rhizoctonia solani. Trichoderma asperellum (isolate 6) effectively inhibited growth of R. solani (88.6%).

2 tables, 11 ref

004241   VAISH S, GARG N, AHMAD I Z (ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow- 226 101) : Enzymatic and siderophore production behavior of fungal isolates from various biodynamic preparations. J Eco-friendly Agric 2019, 14(2), 72-4.

Biodynamic farming refers to working with energies which create and maintain life. Basically there are two types of biodynamic preparations: biodynamic field spray (BD 500 – BD 501) and biodynamic compost preparations (BD 502 – BD 507). The BD sets are used in cow pat pit, BD compost, biodynamic liquid manure and biodynamic liquid pesticides. Enormous literature and supportive material justify the use of these farming systems to combat soil pollution created by use of various chemicals. However, when it comes to scientific explanation, the work is scanty. The present work reports the enzymatic and siderophore production potential of fungal isolates of these biodynamic preparations. Out of 25 fungal isolates from biodynamic preparations, high pectinase activity was exhibited by isolate no. BD 0-7 (0.939 µ mole ml^-1 min^-1) followed by BD 0-2 (0.894 µ mole ml^-1 min^-1) and BD 0-8 (0.852 µ mole ml^-1 min^-1) all these fungus isolates are from BD 500 biodynamic preparations. High cellulase activity was exhibited by isolate no. BD 6-1 (0.1107 µ mole ml^-1 min^-1) followed by BD 0-5 (0.1053 µ mole ml^-1 min^-1) and BD 5-4 (0.1044 µ mole ml^-1 min^-1) from BD 506, BD 500 and BD 504 biodynamic preparations, respectively. High amylase activity was exhibited by isolate no. BD 3-4 (0.1284 µ mole ml^-1 min^-1) followed by BD 3-3 (0.1092 µ mole ml^-1 min^-1) and BD 4-1 (0.1053 µ mole ml^-1 min^-1) from BD 503 and BD 504, respectively. High siderophore production efficiency (%) were exhibited by isolate no. BD 4-5 (285.71 %) followed by BD 0-2 (200.00%) and BD 6-1 (190.0 %) from BD 504, BD 500 and BD 506. High enzyme activity shown by various isolates from different BD preparations explains the degradative powers associated with these preparations. The siderophore production indicates the iron chelating activity which is an indication of plant growth promoting power.

23 ref

004224   RAM R A, AHMAD I, KUMAR A (ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow- 226 101) : Isolation and characterization of PGPRs from organic preparations. J Eco-friendly Agric 2019, 14(2), 18-22.

Rhizobacteria have been described as plant growth promoting as they offer their plant hosts an additional fortification against pathogen by expression of multiple activities that directly and indirectly inhibit pathogens. Most microbial diversity of the soil ecosystem is confined to the rhizosphere. These rhizospheric microbes have the potential to stimulate plant growth and manage soil and plant health. Nowadays, management of the rhizosphere bacterial population has advanced toward the concept of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) owing to emergence of fungicide-resistant pathogens and health concerns for the producers and consumers. Using PGPR as bio-fertilizer is an efficient approach to replace chemical fertilizers and pesticides for sustainable cultivation. In the present study bacteria isolated from Amritpani and Panchagavya were analysed for their biochemical characters and molecular confirmation using molecular tool. The substrate utilization pattern showed that the characteristics of the majority of the tested strains share a similar pattern. However, few isolates displayed varied patterns. Identification of these isolates showed that most of them belong to genus Bacillus and Alcaligenes spp. This was further confirmed with sequencing of the 16s rDNA gene of the bacteria. The present study has resulted in the isolation of PGPRs Bacillus pumilus (CISH-PGPR96), Bacillus subtilis (CISH-PGPR102) and Alcaligenes faecalis (CISH-PGPR104) isolates that can be utilised for sustainable agriculture production.

1 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

004215   KPÈTÈHOTO H W, AMOUSSA A M O, JOHNSON R C, HOUÉTO E E M, MIGNANWANDÉ F M Z, YÉDOMONHAN H, LOKO F, BANKOLÉ H, LAGNIKA L (Abomey-Calavi Univ, Cotonou, Benin, Email: rochjohnson@yahoo.fr) : Phytochemical analysis and antioxidant potential of Ocimum gratissimum Linn (Lamiaceae) commonly consumed in the Republic of Benin. J Appl Biol Biotechnol 2019, 7(4), 75-83.

In the Benin pharmacopoeia, the use of Ocimum gratissimum Linn (Lamiaceae) based on the empirical knowledge is widespread. The objective of this work is the matching of the virtues attributed to this plant in folk medicine with the biomolecules present through a thorough phytochemical exploration. Standard screening is based on the differential reactions of precipitation and staining. Phenolic compounds, total flavonoids, and condensed tannins were quantified by colorimetric Folin–Ciocalteu, AlCl₃, and acid vanillin methods, respectively. Phenolic acids were investigated by the HPLC Ultimate 3000 chain and the antioxidant capacity evaluated by the ferric reducing antioxidant power method coupled with that of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl. Standard screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, anthracene derivatives, steroids, and terpenoids. The total contents of phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins were 56.59 mg gallic acid equivalent /100 mg, 13.71 mgEQ/100 mg, and 8.6 mgEC/100 mg, respectively. For specific assays, three flavonoids (chrysin, isorhamnetin, and quercetin) and six phenolic acids (tannic, ellargic, ferrulic, syringic, chlorogenic, and caffeic) have been identified. The antioxidant activity ranges from 78.92 to 106.25 mmol. Ascorbic acid equivalent /g extract with free radical inhibition ranging from 5.24 % to 76.59 %. The 50 % inhibitory concentration giving a value of 6.175 mg ml⁻¹ is greater than that of the pure molecule. The presence of these phytocompounds endowed with antiradical power testifies to the medicinal potentialities of O. gratissimum. These results confirm the empirical use of O. gratissimum in this study area.

2 illus, 4 tables, 60 ref

004209   HEMLATA B, PORNIMA G, TUKARAM K, PANKAJ B (Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada Univ, Nanded, Maharashtra, Email: bhoslehemlata@gmail.com) : In vitro anti-amylase activity of some Indian dietary spices. J Appl Biol Biotechnol 2019, 7(4), 70-4.

Pancreatic alpha amylase (PAA) inhibitory activity of cinnamon, cumin was evaluated in vitro to search new anti-diabetic agents as alternatives to synthetic medicines. Bark of cinnamon, seeds of cumin, fenugreek, nutmeg, fennel, and buds of clove were extracted with hot water, methanol, chloroform, benzene, and ethyl acetate and 30 extracts were tested for the presence of PAA inhibitory activity using qualitative and quantitative methods and their modes of inhibition were determined. Presence of alpha amylase inhibitors was identified in 18 extracts in quantitative assay. Benzene extracts of cinnamon, clove, fenugreek, and nutmeg and chloroform extract of cumin showed highest anti-amylase potential. The IC₅₀ values of these potential extracts ranged between 2.09 ± 0.12 mg/ml and 2.89 ± 0.079 mg/ml with lowest IC₅₀ value noted for benzene extract of cinnamon and highest IC₅₀ value was noted for benzene extract of fenugreek. Based on the values of Vmax and Km compared to control, it was found that all these extracts display non-competitive mode of inhibition on amylase activity. In conclusion, active constituents of these five extracts possess anti-amylase properties and can be used in management of diabetes mediated complications.

1 illus, 5 tables, 22 ref

004205   BOUGUERRA A, HADJADJ M, DEKMOUCHE M, RAHMANI Z, DENDOUGUI H (Ouargla Univ, Ouargla, Algeria, Email: amina.bouga25@gmail.com) : Determination of phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of Launaea resedifolia from Algerian Sahara. J Appl Biol Biotechnol 2019, 7(4), 63-9.

The present inquiry attempts to determine the antioxidant capacity of Launaea resedifolia’s hydroalcoholic extract which is obtained from Algerian Sahara. The antioxidant capacities of various extracts of aerial parts of L. resedifolia were estimated by using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging capacity, ferric reducing power (FRP), and total antioxidant capacity. In addition, the total phenols, flavonoids, and tannins contents of various extracts were measured by using colorimetric methods, the greater content of phenols and flavonoids was registered in crude extract (6.642 ± 0.262 mg gallic acid equivalent/g DW and 0.929 ± 0.018 mg quercetin equivalent/g DW, respectively), while the tannins was found in water fraction (1.246 ± 0.153 mg RE/g DW). Both capacities of DPPH scavenging and FRP were found best in ethyl acetate fraction (IC₅₀ = 403.551 µg/ml and AEAC = 0.151 mM, respectively). For total antioxidant capacity, the superior capacity was observed in water fraction (EEAC = 0.149 Mm).

4 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

004222   PRASAD K N, KUMAR G K, RAM M R (Botany and Microbiology Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, Email: mraghuram2002@gmail.com) : Antioxidant activity and production of secondary metabolites of adult plant and in vitro calli of Anodendron paniculatum. J Appl Nat Sci 2019, 11(3), 632-5.

The members of the family Apocynaceae are the rich in alkaloids, terpinoids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds and hydrocarbons. Anodendron paniculatum Roxb. is an woody climber, the roots of which have been used to control vomiting and cough. In the present study, adult plant and tissue culture plant extracts of A. paniculatum collected from Eastern Ghats, Araku, Andhra Pradesh were used for the production of their secondary metabolites and antioxidant activity. Methanol extracts of calli showed high contents of total phenol and alkaloid with 25.53 and 25.98 mg/g respectively. Methanol extract of tissue culture plant at higher concentrations showed better antioxidant activity with reference to standard ascorbic acid. For this study different concentrations (12.5, 25, 50, 100 and 200 μg/ml) of extracts were prepared by using four different solvents. Tissue culture extracts from methanol showed maximum scavenging activity with 231.9 ± 1.39 % at 200 μg/ml of concentration, while that of adult plant extracts showed the scavenging activity of 189.1 ± 0.74 % only. These results on high antioxidant activity of the methanol extract of A. paniculatum calli can be attributed to the presence of high phenolic and alkaloid contents in calli when compared to that of adult plant extract.

2 tables, 15 ref

004201   BAJPAI O, MOHAN N, MOHAN J, GUPTA R K (Plant and Environmental Research Institute, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Email: omeshbajpai@gmail.com) : An annual algal diversity of Lakhna, Etawah, Uttar Pradesh, India. J Appl Nat Sci 2019, 11(3), 619-23.

The nature of an ecosystem can be easily assumed by the presence of planktonic diversi-ty, as they have a major role in oxygen amelioration, binding and removal of toxic substances from water body. The present enumeration deals with the annual algal diversity from the Lakhna town of Etawah, Uttar Pradesh. During this one year period, total fifty-four species of Algae recorded viz. Achnanthes minutissima, Amphora ovalis, Anabaena oscillarioides, A. oryzae, Ankistrodesmus falcatus, Aphanocapsa littoralis, Aphanothece microscopica, Arthrospira sp., Calothrix gloeocola, Chlorella vulgaris, Chlorococcum humicola, Chroococcus minor, C. minutes, Cladophora glomerata, Closterium venus, Coelosphaerium kuetzingianum, Cyclotella meneghiniana, Cylindrospermum minutissi-mum, Euglena minuta, Fragilaria crotonensis, Gloeocapsa magma, Gloeotrichia pisum, Gomphonema parvulum, Hydrodictyon reticulatum, Lyngbya contorta, L. epiphytica, L. majuscula, Merismopedia glauca, M. tenuissima, Microcystis aeruginosa, M. flos-aquae, M. robusta, Mougeotia calcarea, Navicula ambigua, N. brebissonii, N. lata, Nostoc com-mune, N. punctiforme, Oscillatoria formosa, O. subuliformis, O. princeps, Pediastrum boryanum, Phormidium ambiguum, P. fragile, P. lucidum, Rivularia aquatica, Scenedes-mus bijuga, S. obliquus, Spirogyra affinis, S. submaxima, Spirulina gigantea, S. major, Ulothrix zonata, Zygnema collinsianum. This information can be used as baseline data and may be further used to assess any change in algal diversity of Gangetic plain after a sufficient gap to understand the impact of changing climate on it.

1 table, 45 ref

004196   ABDELATY N A, ATTIA E Z, HAMED A N E, DESOUKEY S Y (Pharmacognosy Dep, Minia Univ, Minia, Egypt) : Morphoanatomy studies of the leaves of Moluccella laevis L. Family: Lamiaceae (Labiatae), cultivated in Egypt. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(4), 332-7.

Moluccella laevis L. belonging to family Lamiaceae. It is an annual herb, flowering from March to April, bearing dense spikes of small 2-lipped white fragrant flowers with large, bell-shaped calyxes, known as ''Bells of Ireland'' or ''Shell flower''. It is cultivated as an ornamental plant. By reviewing the literature few studies had been done on this plant, which encouraged us to investigate both macro and micro morphological examinations of M. laevis L. leaves, which could help the researchers in the identification and authentication of this plant leaves in both entire and powdered forms

10 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

004208   EVANGELIN M P, PUVVALA S, DIVYA V, KUMAR L G C , REDDY S, MADALA P (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, Southern Institute of Medical Sciencestur, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh) : Evaluation of antimicrobial and antioxidant property of Kalmi: Dalchini. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(4), 283-6.

Evaluation of antimicrobial and antioxidant property of kalmi dalchini precisely called as cinnamon zeylanicum. The cinnamon extract be collected and phyto cemical tests are conducted. Evaluation of antimicrobial and antioxidant property done by in vitro process. The essential oil be carried out by using the soxhlet extraction. Its properties are identified by the various methods such as agar streak dilution method, serial dilution method, agar diffusion and by turbidimetric methods. Antioxidant studies as analysed by hydrogen peroxide scavenging test. Generally ciprofloxacin effects on gram positive bacteria. The extract sample compared by standard ciprofloxacin, as the concentration of ciprofloxacin increases zone of inhibition increases. Cinnamon zeylanicum is a traditional medicine. The most important constituent cinnamic acid and cinnamaldeydes present in the bark are responsible for its antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant activity is due to the presence of ascorbic acid.

4 tables, 15 ref

004240   TINE D, FALL A D, DIENG S I M, SARR A, DIATTA K, DIATTA W, BASSENE E (Pharmacognosy and Botany Dep, Cheikh Anta Diop Univ, Dakar, Senegal) : Total polyphenols content and the antiradical activity leaves extracts of Combretum micranthum G. don harvested from different regions of Senegal (Diass, Sandiara and Essyl). J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(4), 280-2.

This study examines the total polyphenol content and the antiradical properties of extract from Combretum micranthum leaves harvested in Diass, Sandiara in west-central Senegal and in Essyl in the south, during the rainy season versus the after-rainy season. The total polyphenol content expressed in tannic acid equivalent per 100 g of dry matter during the rainy season and the after-rainy season are respectively: Sandiara: 8.5 ± 1.31 % vs 10.44 ± 2.19 %; Essyl: 10.53 ± 4.6 % vs 17.17 ± 0.73 %; Diass: 13.57 ± 1.7 % vs 16.37 ± 0.69 %. The IC₅₀ of Diass, Sandiara and Essyl leaf extracts are in rainy versus after-season periods respectively 117.83 ± 8.93 μg / ml vs 59.5 ± 4.13 μg / ml; 155 ± 4.6 μg / ml vs 119.9 ± 10.78 μl / ml; 150.5 ± 3.36 μg/ml vs 136.17 ± 6.54 μg / ml. The antiradical power is in favor of the after-rain season.

2 illus, 7 ref

004202   BAJPAY A, NAINWAL R C, SINGH D (C.S.I.R- National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh) : Coptis teeta: A potential endemic and endangered medicinal plant of Eastern Himalayas. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(4), 245-8.

Coptis teeta, is a non-timber forest product (NTFP) that grows in northwest Yunnan (China), Bhutan and northeast India, specially in temperate regions of Arunachal Pradesh. Rhizome of this plant is very famous in traditional medication in North East India and China, for prevention and treatment of a number of human diseases. Destructive commercial harvesting for centuries and deforestation, this species has entered into the Chinese Red Data Book, due to its high market demand, commercial harvesting pressure on wild populations that were already dwindling as a result of deforestation and population reach at risk of extinction. On the basis of the various reports and studies Coptis teeta contains many alkaloids such as berberine, palmatine, jatrorrhizine, coptisine, columbamine, and epiberberine and various secondary metabolites, lignans, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, saccharides and steroids are also present in Coptis teeta. Thus, the qualitative and quantitative analysis of several high-content constituents in Coptis extracts will help us for better evaluation and regulation of drug quality. Due to its versatile nature and many pharmacological benefits the cultivation and propagation of Coptis teeta should be done with proper care and patience. 

2 tables, 28 ref

004227   RAVINDRANATH REDDY P (BT Coll, Madanapalle, Andhra Pradesh) : Studies on the effect of plant hormones on flowering behavior of Gaillardia (Gaillardia pulchella L.). J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(4), 221-3.

Blanket flower (Gaillardia spp. Foug.), also known as fire-wheel or Indian blanket, is a native plant that has found its way into the realm of cultivation and extensive production. It’s gorgeously coloured flowers are best arranged in copper bowls or simple plain-coloured vases. The successful commercial cultivation of the crop depends on several factors like, genetic, environment and management factors. In recent years, scientists have given due attention to the idea of regulating plant growth, yield and quality with the application of plant growth regulators in various ways. The experiment was conducted at Horticulture farm of B.T. College, Madanapalle, Andhra Pradesh during 2016 The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications with two plant growth promoting hormones viz; NAA @ 50, 75 and 100 ppm and GA3 @ 50, 75 and 100 ppm, and two plant growth retardants viz., CCC @ 500, 1000 and 1500 ppm abd PBZ @150, 200 and 250 ppm with a Control. The Spraying with different growth regulators was done thrice i.e. 30, 45 and 60 days after transplanting. The observations on flowering attributes and yield were recorded on randomly selected five plants. From the present findings, it is concluded that the gibberellic acid treatments were having profound effect of all the growth and flowering characters of gaillardia. The treatment T6 i.e. GA3 200 ppm spray was found best with respect to minimum days required for flower initiation, number of flowers per plant, flower yield per plant.

1 table, 11 ref

004217   MASIH D, SINGH N, SINGH A (Food Process Engineering Dep, Vaugh Institute Of Agriculture Engineering And Technology, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Red beetroot: A source of natural colourant and antioxidants: A review. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(4), 162-6.

Beetroot (Beta vulgaris) is a root vegetable also known as red beet, garden beet, table beet, or just beet. It is rich in essential nutrients as fibre, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. It is widely used as additives in the food industry because of its natural and harmless pigments and colorant properties and absence of toxicity. It is important from the medicinal point of view also due to its antiviral, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Beetroot is associated with numerous health benefits, including healthy blood pressure, improved athletic performance, digestive health, brain health, fights inflammation and also contains anti-cancer properties. The present paper reviews the potential application of Beetroot as an antioxidant and natural colorant in food products.

1 illus, 64 ref

004204   BHUIYAN F R, HASAN M, IMRAN A S, AHMED S R, SHANZANA P, MARUFATUZZAHAN (Pharmaceuticals and Industrial Biotechnology Dep, Sylhet Agricultural Univ, Sylhet, Bangladesh) : Antimicrobial activity screening for three Citrus pulp extracts and phytochemical constituency profiling. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(4), 157-61.

Selective utilization of plant extracts as potential source of pharmaceutical agents has been increasing in recent years. Many of the plant extracts possess bio-active components which inhibit the growth of some of the Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial pathogens. Three different species of Citrus (Citrus limon, Citrus aurantifolia and Citrus macroptera) fruits pulp extracts were allowed to antimicrobial screening against pathogenic bacteria viz., Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella sp., Pseudomonas sp. and Salmonella sp. Ethanol extract of Citrus macroptera showed highest zone of inhibition (14 ± 0.25 mm) against Klebsiella sp. and methanol extract of Citrus aurantifolia showed highest zone of inhibition (8 ± 0.56 mm) against Salmonella Sp. Ethanol extract and methanol extracts of Citrus fruits are more effective against pathogenic bacteria. Among different extraction methods, water bath method showed better result than soaking method. So it could be assumed that Citrus fruit may release more bioactive compound in water bath method rather than soaking method. Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of various active phytoconstituents in the ethanolic extract of three Citrus species.

2 illus, 3 tables, 41 ref

004220   PATEL S K, CHANDRA R, DHAKAD P K (Mycology and Plant Pathology Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh) : Comparative study on growth parameters and yield potential of five species of oyster mushroom. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(4), 152-6.

Oyster mushroom is the second most largely growing mushrooms and has the good demand in the market and world trade too. An experiment was carried out with five Pleurotus species viz. P. sajor-caju, P. florida, P. flabellatus, P. eryngii and P. ostreatus for growth behavior, sporophores parameter and yield potential. Minimum spawn run periods was observed from P. florida i.e. 16 days. Pin head initiation was also early in P. florida and took 20.33 days. The harvesting of 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th flushes was completed early on P. florida (27.33, 35.67, 4.67 and 55.33 days respectively). In growth parameters maximum number of fruiting body was observed highest in P. florida (101.33). Maximum weight of fruiting body was found in P. florida i.e. 25 g. Minimum weight was observed in P. ostreatus (4.53 g). In P. eryngii average length and average width of stalk was found highest (6.43 cm) and (2.40 cm). Average diameter of cap and total length were found maximum in P. florida (7.67 cm) and (12.02 cm) respectively. The studies of yield potential of five Pleurotus species were evaluated and P. florida was in better performance. Highest average yield of 1st, 2nd and 3rd flush was obtained from P. florida (408.67 g, 301.33 g and 211.67 g) but the yield of 4th flush was higher in P. ostreatus (64.67 g) while the total yield was also maximum for P. florida (982.33 g). Biological efficiency was highest in P. florida (98.23 %) followed by P. sajor-caju. This experiment will help to mushroom growers for selection of best oyster species for obtaining better growth behaviour and yield potential.

3 tables, 17 ref

004228   SAHOO T, VERMA M K, KALURAM (ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Delhi- 110 012) : Estimation of DPPH antioxidant activity in some of the grape genotypes. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(4), 46-8.

Today, there is a high demand for foods rich in antioxidants. ‘Grape’ is regarded as a versatile crop with wide range of bioactive compounds naturally present in it. These bioactive compounds attribute to the antioxidant properties. In the present study, the antioxidant activity in terms of DPPH was determined for 11 grape hybrids along with their 9 parents. The highest antioxidant activity was exhibited by the genotype ‘Cardinal’ followed by ‘Banqui Abyad’. Henceforth, the potent antioxidant rich hybrids could be utilized to manufacture various nutraceutical products and also in improvement of grape germplasm.

2 tables, 11 ref

004199   ANUPAMA R, SUNILKUMAR T (Botany Dep, S.D. Coll, Alappuzha, Kerala) : Phytochemical analysis and nutraceutical studies on aril of Blighia sapida K.D Koenig. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(4), 34-40.

The ripe arils of Blighia sapida K.D Koenig (Family Sapindacea), was made to analyse the phytochemical components and thereby its nutraceutical value. The result revealed the presence of carbohydrate, protein, fat, reducing sugar, ascorbic acid, flavonoid, phenolic compound, alkaloid, amino acid, calcium magnesium& phosphorous in the aril.

3 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

004203   BHAGAT V C, KONDAWAR M S (Birnale Coll of Pharmacy, Sangli, Maharashtra) : A comprehensive review on phytochemistry and pharmacological use of Tridax procumbens Linn. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(4), 1-10.

The medicinal plants are the rich sources of natural remedies to treat the pathogenic and other diseases. Plant Tridax procumbens belongs to family Asteraceae one off. Plant is native of tropical America and naturalized in tropical Africa, Asia, and Australia. Local people known it as “Ghamara”, in English popularly called ‘coat buttons’ and is dispensed for “Bhringraj” by some of the practitioners of Ayurveda. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, carotenoids, flavonoids (catechin and flavones), fumeric acid, fl-sitosterol, saponins and tannins. It is richly endowed with carotenoids, saponins, oleanolic acid and ions like calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium and selenium. Luteolin, glucoluteolin, quercetin and isoquercetin have been reported from its flowers. Tridax procumbens pharmacologically well known for its antiviral, antioxidant, hepatoprotective antibiotic efficacies, wound healing, insecticidal, wound healing, antidiabetic activity, hypotensive effect, immunomodulating property, bronchial catarrh, dysentery, diarrhoea and to prevent falling of hair promotes the growth of hair, and antimicrobial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory activity and antitubercular. This review is attempts to present phytochemical & pharmacologically use, significance of Tridax procumbens for development of new lead molecule to cure the acute & chronic diseases.

3 illus, 56 ref

004197   ALDOSSARY S, KHALIL H E (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, King Faisal Univ, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia, Email: saldossary@kfu.edu.sa) : Antihyperglycemic activity of Carthamus oxyacantha growing in Saudi Arabia; An in vitro and in vivo study. Indian J Pharm Sci 2019, 81(4), 785-90.

The main objective of the current study was to investigate the in vitro and in vivo antidiabetic activity of methanol extracts Carthamus oxyacantha leaves and corollas. In vitro antidiabetic assays such as inhibition of α-amylase enzyme, non-enzymatic glycosylation of hemoglobin and glucose uptake in yeast cells were carried out. The results of α-amylase inhibition assay revealed that the IC₅₀ of methanol extracts of leaf and corolla were almost same (58.5 and 57.1 µg/ml, respectively) when compared with positive control acarbose (45.3 µg/ml). Glycosylation of hemoglobin was inhibited and the methanol extract of corolla showed an IC₅₀ value of 61.7 µg/ml, while methanol extract of the leaf showed 93.9 µg/ml when compared to the positive control, α-tocopherol (35.4 µg/ml). On the other hand, the percent glucose uptake in yeast cells caused by methanol extracts of leaf and corolla was distinctly greater when compared to that of metformin. In vivo antidiabetic study revealed that the two methanol extracts at a dose of 200 mg/kg reduced the fasting plasma glucose level (94.6 ± 4.4 and 102.1 ± 5.5 mg/dl, respectively) when compared to that of glibenclamide (79.4 ± 3.4 mg/dl, p<0.001). The results from this study indicated that Carthamus oxyacantha leaf and corolla methanol extracts exhibited considerable in vitro and in vivo antidiabetic activities, which would make Carthamus oxyacantha a potential antidiabetic agent.

4 tables, 28 ref

004207   DEUSCHLE V C K N, CRUZ R D, FLORES V C, DENARDI L B, DEUSCHLE R A N, ROSSI G G, ALVES S H, CAMPOS M M A, VIANA C (Industrial Pharmacy Dep, Santa Maria Federal Univ, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil, Email: vivianenunes1@yahoo.com.br) : Persea americana: Phenolic profile, antioxidant potential, antimicrobial activity and in silico prediction of pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties. Indian J Pharm Sci 2019, 81(4), 766-75.

The objective of this study was to carry out a phytochemical evaluation of the hydroethanol extract and chloroform, ethyl acetate and butanol fractions of the leaves of Persea americana and correlate with its antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, in order to verify which phytoconstituent is responsible for these activities. In addition, an in silico study of the active constituents identified was carried out to evaluate pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties. The butanol fraction yielded high content of phenolic compounds, total flavonoids, vitamin C and a very high content of rutin (20.6 ± 0.5 mg/g) and quercetin (6.1 ± 0.1 mg/g). The hydroethanol extract demonstrated IC₅₀ of 6.7 ± 1.7 in the 2,2-diphenyl 1-picrylhydrazyl method, ethyl acetate fraction demonstrated greater ability to scavenge H₂O₂ (28.5 ± 0.1) and butanol fraction to reduce Fe³⁺ to Fe²⁺ (55.1 ± 0.1). Significant antifungal activity was found in the hydroethanol extract and the ethyl acetate and butanol fractions (MIC of 32 µg/ml against Candida glabrata and Candida glabrata fluconazole resistant). The ethyl acetate fraction showed antimycobacterial activity with an MIC of 156.25 µg/ml for all species tested. The phytoconstituents identified have no carcinogenic potential but rutin and quercetin might be mutagenic and inhibit cytochrome P450 isozymes, CYP1A2 and CYP3A4. The results provided a good understanding of the constituents present in the leaves of the plant and their potential for pharmaceutical, food and cosmetics application.

2 illus, 6 tables, 54 ref

004226   RANGRA N K, SAMANTA S, PRADHAN K K (Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technology Dep, Birla Institute of Technology, Ranchi, Jharkhand - 835 215, Email: nareshrangra@gmail.com) : In vivo antiinflammatory potential of leaf extracts of Acacia auriculiformis Benth. Indian J Pharm Sci 2019, 81(4), 709-19.

The prime objective of the present study was to evaluate the probable in vivo antiinflammatory potential of various extracts of the leaves of Acacia auriculiformis Benth. using carrageenan and formalin-induced inflammation in the rats. Thereafter gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the bioactive extract was performed to identify the compounds responsible for the antiinflammatory activity. The in vitro antioxidant potential was determined through 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging assay, hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay and reducing power assay. Overall butanol and methanol leaf extracts showed significant antioxidant free radical scavenging activity. The methanol and petroleum ether leaf extracts at a dose of 400 mg/kg showed the highest percent inhibition of 84.88 and 82.12, respectively in the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model, whereas, in formalin-induced rat paw edema model the chloroform and methanol leaf extracts showed the highest percent inhibition of 65.68 and 63.34 at a dose of 400 mg/kg, respectively. In both the antiinflammatory models, indomethacin (standard, 40 mg/kg) was used for comparison with test extracts. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of bioactive butanol and methanol extracts showed the presence of compounds like sterols (stigmasterol, β-sitosterol and γ-sitosterol) and phenolic compounds (phenol, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl),2,4-ditert-butylphenol), which could be responsible for the pharmacological activities observed. These in vitro and in vivo studies indicated that the antiinflammatory and antioxidant potential of the methanol leaf extract of Acacia auriculiformis Benth. could due to the presence of high phenolic and sterol content.

4 illus, 4 tables, 39 ref

002921   MALIK B, PIRZADAH T B, TAHIR I, REHMAN R U (Bioresources Dep, Kashmir Univ, Srinagar- 190 006, Jammu and Kashmir) : Growth and physiological responses in chicory towards mercury induced in vitro oxidative stress. Plant Physiol Rep 2019, 24(2), 236-48.

Plants experience oxidative stress upon exposure to heavy metals that leads to cellular damage. Plants accumulate metal ions that disturb cellular ionic homeostasis. Currently the main interest in metal accumulators lies in the field of phytoremediation when plants are used to “clean up” metal contaminants from the soil. The present study was conducted to evaluate the oxidative stress in chicory plants when subjected to different concentrations of Hg (0, 25, 50 and 75 µM). In order to study oxidative stress and Hg accumulation in chicory various morphological, biochemical and enzymatic parameters at two different stages (23 and 46 days old) were studied. The root and shoot growth, biomass accumulation declined significantly at highest Hg concentration (75 µM) and Hg accumulation was higher in roots than in shoots as indicated by translocation factor < 1. Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances content increased with increasing concentration of Hg treatments. The change in H₂O₂ was also revealed by in vivo histochemical detection. The osmolytes and photosynthetic pigment increased significantly up to 50 µMHg, while as decreasing slightly at higher dose (75 µM). The activities of defense enzymes viz. superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, guaiacol peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione S-transferase were found to be positively correlated with Hg-concentration. In conclusion, the chicory plants were found to possess Hg-detoxification capacity which can be recommended for remediating Hg contaminated soils.

77 ref

002908   HASHEMI A, SHAHANI A (Applied Science and Technology Univ, Mazandaran, Iran) : Effects of salt stress on the morphological characteristics, total phenol and total anthocyanin contents of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.). Plant Physiol Rep 2019, 24(2), 210-4.

Salinity is an abiotic stress which affects the morphological and physiological characteristics of plants. In order to evaluate the effects of different concentrations (0, 40, 80, 120 and 160 mM) of NaCl on some morphological and physiological parameters in Roselle, an experiment was conducted using a simple randomized design with three replications. The results showed that salt stress decreased plant height, number of leaves and shoot fresh weight. In addition, there were no differences between treatments in the fresh and dry weight of flowers, significantly, but the number of flowers decreased in the treatments of 120 and 160 mM NaCl. The total phenolic content showed a significant reduction between the control and other concentrations except for 40 mM NaCl, but the total anthocyanin content showed a significant increase in 40 mM NaCl. The results of this study indicated the possible effect of the low saline concentration on the increase of anthocyanin content, with no change on flower yield.

3 tables, 39 ref