016716   Sigidi M;Traore A N;Tshisikhawe M P;Potgieter N (Microbiology Dep, Venda Univ, PO Box X5050, Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province, Email: tshisip@univen.ac.za) : Ethnobotanical evaluation of selected medicinal plants used in treatment of diseases around venda region: A literature review. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2017, 16(3), 370-7.

The importance of traditional medicine has been recorded throughout the world. It has also been practiced throughout Africa by more than 80 % of rural communities. Traditional medicine has since been imbedded in the culture of many rural communities. People of the world continues to use traditional medicine because of their accessibility and affordability. The use of medicinal plants around the Venda region is vast, yet the published data on the various plants is scanty. The review aims to bring forth the knowledge of the most widely used plants among the Vhavenda population. The data was compiled from peer reviewed and non-peer reviewed journals, textbooks, thesis and also by interviews conducted with the traditional healers. The review revealed that there are a number of traditional medicines that are being preferred by traditional healers in their practice, the use of the selected plants in literature has never reported to be used in curing HIV/AIDS and its related illnesses. Most of the plants recorded were found to have active compounds in most of their organs. Plants are great sources for the discovery of new medicines. Natural products and their synthetics can be utilized in the development of highly useful drugs through chemical procedures and isolation followed by analog synthesis through modern medicinal mechanisms. The knowledge and understanding of each utilized medicinal plant is of great importance for it is through the discovery of newer potential drugs that the emerging life threatening infections can be effectively combated. With the increasing rate of people migrating from either rural - urban or vice versa, the natural habitats for such herbal plants is in the process of being completely destroyed without preservation of the naturally important plant species. The fear is of losing such important plant from the local communities thus losing valuable and future vital drugs.

1 table, 60 ref

016715   Sabannavar S J;Chitra A S (Botany Dep, Mount Carmel College (Autonomous), Bangalore, Karnataka, Email: shwetsab@gmail.com) : Pharmacognostic analysis and phytochemical analysis of the medicinal plant Canthium parviflorum Lam.. Int J Pharmac 2017, 4(3), 92-8.

The crude extract from leaf of Canthium parviflorum Lam. in different solvents were subjected to physico-chemical, fluorescence analysis, phytochemical and antimicrobial study. The microscopic analysis - 124 - revealed that in C. parviflorum there is presence of starch grains. The ash value was 5.81% in C. parviflorum. The fluorescent analysis at 366 nm of C. parviflorum powder extracted with alcohol showed orange coloured fluorescence with other it was no fluorescence. The extraction value with different solvents exhibited that C. parviflorum had maximum extractive value with chloroform followed by benzene, ethanol and petroleum ether. The phytochemical screening of the various extract of C. parviflorum revealed that, the benzene extract showed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins and steroids. The chloroform extracts of the leaf showed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins and steroids. Anti-bacterial screening in C. parviflorum using stem revealed that the ethanol solvent showed maximum inhibition against gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) and chloroform solvent showed maximum inhibition in case of gram-negative bacteria (Serratia marcescence).

3 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

016714   Rudra S G;Sethi S;Jha S K;Rajeev Kumar (Food Science & POstHarvest Technology Dep, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: gaurshalini@gmail.com) : Physio-chemical and functional properties of cowpea protein isolate as affected by the dehydration technique. Legume Res 2016, 39(3), 370-8.

Cowpea protein isolate (CPI) was extracted through salt assisted extraction technique and dehydrated by freeze drying, spray drying and vacuum drying. The effect of dehydration technique for preparation of cowpea protein isolate powder on the nutritive and functional properties was investigated. The x-ray crystallography, phase transition analysis and surface morphology established the variation in the agglomerates and nature of the particles formed upon dehydration. Freeze-dried and spray dried powders displayed least gelation capacity at 8% compared to 12% for vacuum dried isolates besides higher gel strength. The crossover point of storage and loss modulus for freeze-dried CPI was observed much earlier than for the spray and vacuum dried CPI. The emulsion capacity and creaming stability indices for freeze dried CPI were higher. Vacuum dried samples however showed highest emulsion activity index (94.88 m²/g) and good foaming ability (88.89%). Thus depending on the functional attribute intended for end-use, the most economic drying method can be considered as reasonable option for converting the protein isolates into powders.

5 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

016713   Rethinam P;Sundararaj P (NO, , APCC &Former Chairman, Coconut Development Board, Government of India, Email: palms02@hotmail.com) : Annona muricata L., soursop (graviola)-nature's gift to manking with amazing medicinal benefits. Int J Innovative Hort 2016, 5(2), 73-80.

Annona muricata L., popularly known as Graviola, Soursop, Guanabana, Mundla etc., has been used by the people in African and South American countries to treat infections with viruses or parasites, rheumatism, arthritis, depression, and sickness. In many countries, people use the bark, leaves, root, and fruits of this tree for traditional remedies. The soursop originated in the lowlands of Central America and is grown - 123 - primarily at altitudes lower than 900 m above sea level, it is grown in many tropical countries like Angola, Brazil, Columbia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Jamaica, India, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Porto Rico and Venezuela. It grows in a wide variety of soils, from sandy to clay loams, but prefers deep soils with good aeration. It is usually grown from seeds. The fruit is heart-shaped to oval, ranging in size from a few inches to over one foot in length. This plant has great benefits for human life which is full with nutrition. In the food industry soursop can be processed into jam, fruit juice, syrup. The leaves contain flavonoid, tannin, alkaloid, saponin, calcium, phosphor, carbohydrate, vitamin a, b and c, phytosterol and calcium oxalate. It also has potassium, calcium, zinc, phosphorous and magnesium. The stem, bark and leaves are rich in antioxidants particularly coenzyme q10 to fight inflammation, eliminate free radicals, and ensure that the body functions properly. Soursop leaf can kill malignant cells of 12 types of cancer, including colon, breast, prostate, lung and pancreatic cancer. Soursop is 10, 000 times stronger in slowing the growth of cancer cells compared to adriamycin and chemotherapy. Soursop leaves is very effective for on prostate, pancreas and lung cancer and attacks cancer cells effectively but it does not harm healthy cells. This article gives the glimpses about the various uses of soursop in the food industries and its pharmaceutical properties in curing many diseases including cancer.

^iia38 ref

016712   Ratna Manjula R;Seetharami Reddi T V V (Botany Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: reddytvvs@rediffmail.com) : Ethnomedicinal practices for tooth problems by the tribals of Khammam district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Indian J nat Prod Resour 2017, 8(1), 94-8.

The paper deals with 46 species of plants, covering 44 genera and 31 families used for curing tooth ailments by the tribes of Khammam district in Andhra Pradesh. Fabaceae is the dominant family with 5 species followed by Myrtaceae and Solanaceae (each 3 species) and others. Habit-wise analysis showed the dominance of trees (19 spp) followed by shrubs (15 spp), herbs (11 spp) and a lone climber. Root is used in 10 practices followed by leaf (8 practices), whole plant and stem (6 practices each), stem bark (5 practices), seed (4 practices) and others. The use of Capparis brevispina, Leucas aspera, and Plumbago auriculata and 20 practices were found to be new. There is a need for scientific validation of these practices and their efficiency, credibility, and applicability need to be established through phytochemical, pharmacological, and clinical screenings.

^ssc1 table, 14 ref

016711   Ratan N;Singh U N (Botany Dep, D.V. Postgraduate College, Orai-285 001) : Population dynamics and regeneration of seedlings and saplings in Anogeissus forest of Bundelkhand region (U.P.) India. Ecol Envir Conserv 2017, 23(1), 302-4.

Population density of seedlings and sapling has been studied in the two forest stands situated along the border of Jhansi district (U.P.) adjacent to Datia district of Madhya Pradesh, India. The seedling density varied from 146.58 100^-2 (Winter season) to 297.65 100^-2 (rainy season) in stand 1 and it ranged from 258.00 100^-2 (Winter season) to 403.96 100^-2 (rainy season) in stand II. The sapling densities were recorded 56.9 100m^-2 for stand I and II respectively.

2 tables, 9 ref

016710   Ranjeet Kour;Sharma B C;Anil Kumar;Paramjeet Kour;Nandan B (Agronomy Dep, Sher-E-Kashmir Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Jammu-911 211, Email: ranjeet1661@yahoo.com) : Study of physiological growth indices of chickpea in chickpea (Cicer arietinum) + mustard (Brassica juncea) intercropping system under different weed management practices. Legume Res 2016, 39(3), 453-8.

The field experiments were carried out during rabi season of 2009-10 and 2010-11 at the Research Farm of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, Chatha to assess the physiological growth indices in chickpea+mustard intercropping system under different weed management practices. The significant superiority of replacement - 122 - series treatment for leaf area index of chickpea over additive series treatment was noticed. The crop of sole chickpea was followed by replacement and additive series treatments in recording highest dry matter, crop growth rate and net assimilation rate values. Sole stand of chickpea recorded numerically higher relative growth rate (RGR) followed by replacement and additive series treatments. Weed free treatment recorded numerically the highest crop growth rate (CGR) and net assimilation rate (NAR) of chickpea at all the stages of observation. Sole chickpea produced higher yield as compared to chickpea+mustard when grown in additive and replacement series in the respective order.

2 tables, 11 ref

016709   Polat R;Guner B;Babacan E Y;Cakilcioglu U (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Dep, Bingol Univ, Genc Vocational School, Genc, Bingol 12500, Turkey, Email: ucakilcioglu@yahoo.com) : Survey of wild food plants for human consumption in Bingol (Turkey). Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2017, 16(3), 378-84.

The study focused on the wild plants traditionally used for human consumption in Bingol and its aim is to present data about the folk botanical knowledge and to give about their development in relation to plant resources and traditionally food culture. The information about the use of wild edible plants was collected from 6 different open-air-markets and 13 villages in the city during two-year period (2012-2013), through unstructured interviews. In this study, a total of 61 wild food plant taxa belonging to 25 families were established and also plant parts used, ethnographic data related to vernacular names, traditional use were recorded. Family Rosaceae is represented by the highest number of taxa (9), followed by Lamiaceae (8), Astaraceae (7), Apiaceae (6), Fabaceae (4) and Polygonaceae (3). The study showed that the plants used are either eaten raw, cooked by boiling in water, frying in oil or baked to be served as dishes such as stew, salad as hot drink. During this ethnobotanical research, it was verified that wild edible plants play an important role in diet in Bingol. Furthermore, during our study Heracleum pastinacifolium C. Koch, Origanum acutidens (Hand.-Mazz.). Letsw, Prunus kurdica Fenzl ex Fritsch, Quercus petraea subsp. pinnatiloba (K. Koch) Menitsky has been recorded as endemic wild food plant taxa from Bingol.

2 illus, 1 table, 36 ref

016708   Navjyot Kaur;Jhanji S (Botany Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: shalini_jhanji@yahoo.com) : Effect of soil cadmium on growth, photosynthesis and quality of Raphanus sativus and Lactuca sativa. J envir Biol 2016, 37(5), 993-7.

Cadmium (Cd) raises serious concerns as its accumulation in the plant not only affect the growth and quality of plant but also threaten the health of consumers. In this research, two vegetables, i.e., radish (Raphanus sativus L.) and lettuce (Lactuca sativa L), were planted in pots having soil treated with Cd as Cd (NO₃)₂ at different doses (25, 50, 100 and 200 mg Cd kg^-1 soil ) to investigate the influence of cadmium on their growth, photosynthetic attributes and quality. Cadmium retarded plant growth as dry weight of radish roots decline by 87% and leaves by 83% following 200 mg Cd kg^-1 - 121 - soil application and the corresponding values for lettuce were 64 and 69% respectively. Significant reductions in various photosynthetic parameters viz., leaf area per plant, total chlorophyll, Chl a and Chl b content were also recorded with Cd applications. The Cd treatments resulted in loss of membrane integrity as revealed by significant increase in electrolyte leakage in leaves of both vegetables. There was significant increase in Cd accumulation in radish and lettuce with all applications but no visual symptoms of Cd toxicity were noticed with 25 and 50 mg Cd kg^-1 soil application except for yield differences, illustrating that Cd accumulate in this crop without visual evidence of its presence. However, toxicity symptoms in the form of interveinal chlorosis of the leaf lamina, followed by necrosis and leaf rolling, were clearly evident with 100 and 200 mg Cd kg^-1 soil application. Apparently, Cd causes harm due to its phytotoxic effects and high accumulation in edible parts of radish and lettuce without any visible symptoms that constitutes a substantial hazard to human health.

1 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

016707   Mishra R P (Botany Dep, Govt. PG Science College Rewa, Madhya Pradesh) : Ethnobiology and ecological of Sidhi disctrict (M.P.). Int J Pharm Life Sci 2017, 8(2), 5473-6.

Madhya Pradesh the heart of India comes under central zone of Tribals areas (Sharna 1984). Besides M.P. which has heights population of Tribals i.e. 11.98 millions the other Tribal zones with their Tribal populations are West Bengal (3.07 Million), Orissa (5.91 million), Bihar (5.8 million), Rajasthan (4.18 million), Maharashtra (5.77 million), and Gujrat (4.85 million), in the general Tribes of central zone speak dialects of either Austic of Dravidian family of language. Physical features of these Tribes is mostly Protoaustraloid. These tribal people are very rich in their culture, tradition and faith on natural resource and nature. These aboriginals have gathered knowledge through long experiences of interaction among their surrounding flora and fauna of the respected.As the present study was confined to the ethnobilogy of the Sidhi districts the observation automatically Restricted to the flora, Faunagd and forest resources used by Tribes. So for the clear understanding of the work observation are divided in to three major paris. Flora of Tribal uses, Fauna of Tribal Uses and Forest dependence of the Tribes. Flora is a group which includes numerous plant all over the world. These Tribal communities of Sidhi district collect and utilized a large number of plant in many ways, Flora is utilized as seeds, words, leaves, tuber's, roots, gums, and Resins of many wild and cultivated plant by Tribal communities, the Tribal communities are growing plant species in forest for food, fodder, fuel, cordage-medicine, oil, gum, resin, fishpoision, housing, music instruments, agricultural implements, social and religious ceremonies etc. Fauna is a group of non vertebrates and vertebrate animals all over the world the Tribals communities use this group for medicine, food, music, religious, significance etc. it has an enormous range of wild animals. The Indian sub continent represents the greatest emporia of the Ethnobilogical wealth. A large number of Tribal Communities who live in remote and accessible part of the country depend on this group for their fundamental needs and livelihood. Human culture has been influenced direct or indirectly. It has been changed by animal kingdom since pre-historic times. Tribal communities of Sidhi district collect and utilized a large number of animals. Product in many ways, Fauna is utilized as horn, skin, hair, bones, flash, urine, feather, blood, and scale of many wild and domestic animals by Tribal communities.

1 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

016706   Masrahi Y S;Remesh M;Sayed O H (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia, Email: ymasrahi@gmail.com) : Emueration of the flora of Wadi Lajab, Saudi Arabia. Ecol Envir Conserv 2017, 23(1), 98-105.

Work presented in this paper provides the first overarching compendium of the flora of Wadi Lajab at Al-Raith Governorate in Jazan Region southwest of Saudi Arabia. Increased touristic and recreational interests pose serious threats to plant diversity in the area and are currently a matter of serious concern. The inventory of plant species provided represents an important starting point for conservation in the area. Plant species collected at Wadi Lajab includes a total of 189 plant species in 149 genera belonging to 62 families. Recorded families include one nonvascular plant family, and 61 vascular plant families of which 2 are Pteridophytes, 52 Dicotyledons and 7 monocotyledons. Among recorded plants 20 species - 120 - are rare and 29 species are of ethnobotanical importance.

2 tables, 25 ref

016705   Maroyi A;Cheikhyoussef A (Botany Dep, Fort Hare Univ, Private Bag X1314, Alice 5700, South Africa, Email: amaroyi@ufh.az.za) : Traditional knowledge of wild edible fruits in southern Africa: A comparative use patterns in Namibia and Zimbabwe. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2017, 16(3), 385-92.

A large proportion of resource poor rural households in southern African communal areas are dependent on wild edible fruits to meet part of their daily nutritional needs. For many people and ethnic groups, the use of wild edible fruits is a source of cultural identity, reflecting a deep and important body of knowledge about the environment, survival, harvesting, preservation and other forms of management. This study was aimed at documenting the role of wild edible fruits in the livelihoods of people in Namibia and Zimbabwe. Sixty five and 83 randomly selected participants were interviewed in Namibia and Zimbabwe respectively, between October 2011 and January 2013. Sixty fruit plants were recorded in both countries. Higher species numbers (50) were recorded in Zimbabwe compared to 19 species in Namibia. Apart from fruit production, five other major use categories were identified in this study, which included herbal medicines, timber, firewood, fruit juice and plant products sold to generate income. It is vital that more research is conducted on potentially important wild edible fruit plants as millions of people throughout the world make extensive use of this category of plant resources to fulfill their livelihood needs.

2 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

016704   Lakshmi M;Nair B R (Botany Dep, Kerala Univ, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram-695 581, Email: vlekshmim@yahoo.co.in) : GC-MS analysis of the chloroform extract of bark of Terminalia travancorensis Wight & Arn. (combretaceae). Int J pharm Sci Res 2017, 8(2), 794-8.

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) studies play an important role in isolation and identification of phytocompounds. Since, the chemical composition of the plants usually determines its biological activity, phytochemicals of possible pharmaceutical importance can be subjected to a detailed analysis. The present study is concerned with the GC-MS analysis of chloroform extract of the bark of Terminalia travancorensis, an evergreen tree, endemic to the Western Ghats. Reports on the benefits and or medicinal properties of T. travancorensis are rare or even - 119 - absent. In this context, the present study was carried out to determine the chemical constituents of the bark by GC-MS analysis. Twenty two components were identified by GC-MS analysis in the chloroform extract. The major components detected were Friedelan-3-one (15.93%), gamma-sitosterol (10.48%), alpha -octadecene (8.54%), n-Tetracosanol-1 (8.21%), Phenol, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl) (7.77%), 1-Nonadecene (7.49%), Heptacosanol (6.16%), 1-Heptadecene (5.25%) and stigmast-4-en-3-one (5.46%). Friedelan-3-one, the major compound is a triterpenoid possessing antifeedant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial and anticandidal activities. The second major compound, gamma-sitosterol plays a vital role in the structure and dynamics of membranes, also involved in the embryonic growth of plants. The remaining compounds are also reported to have various biological activities.

22 ref

016703   Kuldeep Kumar;Ashok Kumar (Botany Dep, C. C. S. Univ, Campus Meerut-250 004) : Effect of fly ash on some biochemical properties of Vigna mungo L.. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2017, 6(2), 1-13.

Study was conducted on the effect of fly ash on the biochemical properties of Vigna mungo L. Results obtained reveal that the increasing proportion of fly ash in soil and plants considerably increases the value and certain characteristics. Effect of these changes show positive changes on protein, nitrogen, proline, leghaemoglobin, chlorophyll, and other biochemical properties of Vigna mungo L. All these were found to be favourably affected by fly ash induced changes in biochemical characters of the plant. Hence, through the present study one can conclude that fly ash in moderate percentage can be a boon for sustainable agriculture.

5 illus, 19 ref

016702   Kotukhov Y A;Danilova A N;Anufrieva O A (NO, RSE Altay Botanical Garden Ridder, Ermakova Str, 1, 071300, Kazakhstan, Email: aydars@list.ru) : Ecological, biolotical, and phytocenotic characteristics of Artemisia kotuchovii Kupr. in the republic of Kazakhstan. Ecol Envir Conserv 2017, 23(1), 529-33.

The article presents the ecological and biological, and phytocenotic characteristics of Artemisia kotuchovii coeno populations from the classical habitats in the Karakaba basin in the foothills of the Southern Altai Tarbagatai Ridge. The following coenopopulations of phytocenoses were isolated during the studies of the Karakabacoenopopulation: couch grass -sagebrush-feather (Stipabaicalensis Rochev., Artemisia kotuchovii Kupr., Elytrigiarepens (L.) Nevski), sagebrush-feather (Stipakarakabinica Kotuch., Artemisia kotuchovii Kupr., A. sericea Web.), sagebrush-sedge-bluegrass -couch grass (Elytrigiarepens (L.) Nevski, Poaangustifolia L., Carexhumilis Leyss., Artemisia kotuchovii Kupr.), bedstraw-bluegrass -sedge-fescue-sagebrush (Artemisia kotuchovii Kupr., Festucavalesiaca Gaudin, Carexhumilis Leyss., Poaangustifolia L., Galiumverum L.). The results of ecological and biological, and phytocenotic research of Artemisia kotuchovii Kupr. from classical habitats in the Karakaba basin in the foothills of the Southern Altai Tarbagatai Ridge have shown that the coenopopulations are the progressive and normal-type ones, with active self-renewal with seeds capable to capture and retain the areas. Xerophytes, xeromesophyte, and xeropetrophytes dominate in the flora of the coenopopulation. Herbaceous perennials are the leaders by the nature of life forms.

13 ref

016701   Khan B A;Shah M A;Reshi Z A (Botany Dep, University of Kashmir, Srinagar-190 006, Email: mashah75@yahoo.com) : Dispersan syndromes of alien invasive and alien non-invasive plants of the Kashmir Valley, India. Ecol Envir Conserv 2017, 23(1), 228-47.

Comprehensive understanding of the role of dispersal syndromes in determining species invasiveness remains elusive despite some investigations in this direction. In view of importance of the dispersal characteristics in invasion success, comparative analysis of alien invasive vs. alien non-invasive species for such traits attains key significance. Hence, we compared dispersal traits of 96 invasive alien species in the Kashmir valley, India with 72 non-invasive alien species. We specifically focused on dispersal related traits such as size, volume and number of fruits and seeds vis-…-vis duration of reproductive and dispersal phase of the species. Our results revealed that the dispersal related traits significantly influence invasion success. We conclude that invasive alien species exhibit better strategies and the related better understanding of such traits could be factored into the models predicting future plant invasions to add to their - 118 - precision.

15 illus, 7 tables, 58 ref

016700   Kehie M;Kehie P;Pfoze N L (Environmental Science Post Graduate Dep, Patkai Christian College (Autonomous), Chumukedima, Seithekema, Dimapur-797 103, Email: kehie10@gmail.com) : Phytochemical and ethnopharmacological overview of endangered Homalomeana aromatica Schott: An aromatic medicinal herb of Northeast India. Indian J nat Prod Resour 2017, 8(1), 18-31.

Northeast India falls under the Indo-Burma mega biodiversity hotspot and is considered one of the richest repositories of aromatic and medicinal plants in the World. The region is also known for its rich ethnic diversity comprising about 130 major tribes and 300 sub-tribes or groups. Each ethnic tribal community utilizes wide varieties of plant species as food and medicine. However, of late, this rich plant diversity of the region has been threatened mainly due to ever increasing pressure of anthropogenic interferences including large scale jhuming and unsustainable collection of forest resources from its natural habitats. Homalomena aromatica Schott.is one such aromatic medicinal herb found in this region. The rhizomes are known to possess medicinal properties like antiinflammatory, analgesic, antidepressant, antiseptic, sedative, antispasmodic, treating joint pain, and skin infections. The rhizomes contain an essential oil having mainly sesquiterpenoids group that is used for blending of most oriental perfume. It has a high demand in perfumery and cosmetic industries. The spent material after oil extraction is largely used in Dhup manufacturing. However, despite its importance, conservation of this herb is one of the major challenges confronting the region. Large-scale indiscriminate collection directly from its natural habitat has endangered this species. This review presents a comprehensive overview of ethnomedicinal uses and phytochemical composition of the essential oil of H. aromatica. It also highlights the economic potential and future research directions towards conservation and utilization of H. aromatica.

2 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

016699   Jadhav N M;Thergaonkar R S;Deodhar M A (Botany Dep, Kelkar Education Trust's V. G. Vaze College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Mithagar Road, Mulund (E) Mumbai-400 081, Email: drmadeodhar@gmail.com) : Extraction of essential oil from flowers of Mesua ferrea Linn. GC-MS analysis and incorporation in cosmetic product. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(12), 5106-10.

Mesua ferrea Linn. is a flowering tree found in Western Ghats of India, belonging to family Clusiaceae. Extraction process was standardized by cold maceration method with n-hexane. Essential oil extracted from different parts of the flower was also subjected to GC/MS and headspace analysis. The GC/MS analysis of essential oils from whole flowers of M. ferrea shows following components. Alpha-Copaene (13.52%), Trans-Alpha-Bergamotene (09.12%), Benzoate Geranyle-1 (09.82%), and Dioctyl Phtalate (20.21%), where as essential oil extracted from the petals of M. ferrea contained Alpha-Copaene (22.72%), Trans-Alpha-Bergamotene (17.42%), and Dicotyl Terephthalate (13.90%). The major components identified in stamens of the flowers by headspace technology were Alpha Copaene (28.49%), Beta caryophyllene (5.98%), Trans-Beta-Farnesene (9.24%), Trans-Alpha-Bargamotene (30.91%), and Alpha Bisabolene (5.15%) where as in petal of the flowers were Alpha Copaene (27.40%), Beta Selinene (5.18%), - 117 - Trans-Alpha-Bargamotene (31.56%), Alpha Bisabolene (6.06%). The essential oils extracted from M. ferrea were also subjected to olfactory evaluation and was incorporated in cosmetic products (Hair oil, Massage oil and Body cream).

6 ref

016698   Husain A;Kaushik A;Awasthi H;Singh D P;Khan R;Mani D ((HMPD) Herbal Medicinal Products Dep, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Lucknow-226 015, Email: drdnmani@gmail.com) : Immunomodulatory and antioxidant activities of fresh juice extracts of Brahmi and Guduchi. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2017, 16(3), 498-505.

Medicinal plants mentioned in Ayurveda can be used as food or medicine due to their impact on human health and disease prevention. For example, Guduchi has been used as an immunomodulator for its ability to enhance the immune response. In the present study, fresh juice extracts of Brahmi and Guduchi was evaluated for its immunomodulatory and antioxidant activity. Fresh juice of Brahmi and Guduchi was prepared and lyophilized. The antioxidant activity of the same was evaluated against free radicals whereas immunomodulatory activity was carried out in cyclophosphamide induced immune-suppressed Swiss albino mice. Haemagglutination test was used to assess their effects on humoral response. Both these extracts showed in vitro antioxidant activities. Brahmi exhibited higher TAC (22.39±1.39), phenolic content (24.93±1.27) and hydroxyl radical scavenging effect (83.79 ± 0.88). Similar effects were observed with both extracts in total antioxidant activity against DPPH radical, reducing power and NO radical. Both the plants stimulated the humoral immune response. Increased haemagglutination inhibition was observed with Brahmi (6.40±0.24) in comparison to Guduchi (6.20±0.37). The results suggest that Brahmi and Guduchi both can be considered as promising immunomodulatory agents.

2 illus, 3 tables, 35 ref

016697   Girish Kumar E;Sajeera P;Sivadasan K K (Botany P.G. Dep, Mahatma Gandhi Govt. Arts College, Mahe, U.T. of Puducherry) : Quantitative study on the selected phytochemicals of six indigenous medicinal plants of Mahe, U.T. of Puducherry, India. Int J herb Med 2017, 5(4), 1-4.

A quantitative study was conducted to estimate the chlorophyll, carotenoids, lycopene, protein, and percentage of H₂O₂ scavenging capacity of six selected medicinal plants of Mahe region. The plants selected were Cardiospermum halicacabum of family Sapindaceae, Desmodium triflorum of Fabaceae, Piper longum of Piperaceae, Scoparia dulcis of Scrophulariaceae, Tabernaemontana divaricata of Apocynaceae and Thespesia populnea of Malvaceae. The study showed that Thespesia populnea showed maximum chlorophyll content per gram of the leaf, Piper longum showed the minimum of the same. Tabernaemontana divaricata showed the maximum of carotenoids and Piper longum showed the minimum. Thespesia populnea showed the maximum of lycopene and Desmodium triflorum showed the minimum. - 116 - Percentage of H₂O₂ scavenging capacity was maximum in Piper longum and minimum in Desmodium triflorum. Total protein content was maximum in Scoparia dulcis and minimum in Desmodium triflorum. The present study is a useful prelude for further investigations in this line.

4 illus, 37 ref

016696   Gandipilli G;Ratnakumar P K (Botany Dep, Centre of Advanced Study (UGC-SAP-CAS-I), College of Science & Techno, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: mycology.au@gmail.com) : In vitro screening of a foliar pathogen for biological control of horse purslane weed. Indian J expl Biol 2017, 55(6), 389-95.

Trianthema portulacastrum L. (Horse Purslane), is a common noxious weed of crop fields viz. pulses, cotton, sugarcane, rice, maize, etc., and chemical pesticides used to control this weed affect the environmental adversely. Here, we conducted a systematic field study for screening natural enemies of the weed as biocontrol agents. A foliar fungal pathogen Gibbago trianthemae Simmons was isolated from parasitized leaves and characterised by means of taxonomic features. The virulence and host specificity of the isolate were tested in vitro and the mycoherbicidal potential against Horse Purslane was recorded. The deleterious effects of G. trianthemae by means of spore inoculum were examined on host weed which leads to the development of leaf spot disease. The huge number of green house plants was controlled (98% at 50 days after spore treatment) by the infection and spread of leaf spot disease caused by G. trianthemae. Results of this study recommend the fungal species G. trianthemae as a potential mycoherbicidal candidate for the management of Horse Purslane.

3 illus, 2 tables, 36 ref

016695   Dabanovic V;Soskic M;Durovic D;Mugosa B (NO, Pharmacy Institution of Montenegro "Montefarm" Ljubljanska bb, 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro, Email: vera.dabanovic@montefarm.co.me) : Investigation of heavy metals content in selected tea brands marketed in Podgorica, Montenegro. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(12), 4798-804.

Medicinal plants are sources of different chemical substances with different biological activities in living organism. Some of the chemical compounds so-called "heavy metals", can be dangerous because they tend to bioaccumulate and transported in all biota via the food chain. The aim of our study was to investigate the concentration of heavy metals in commercially available tea samples purchased in markets in Podgorica, Montenegro state. The samples preparation has been performed using microwave digestion. The content of metals concentrations was determined by ICP-OES, while the mercury content is determined by DMA 80 and Perkin-Elmer Analyst 300. Results - 115 - obtained in the present study showed that analysed samples of the investigated medicinal plants contain heavy metals namely copper, cobalt, chromium, iron, manganese, nickel, and zinc that are considered essential elements; and arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury which are classified as highly toxic metals. The concentration (mg kg^-1) of heavy metals in all the tea samples was found to be as follows: arsenic (0.0107 to 0.2495), cadmium (0.001 to 0.01), copper (9.18 to 38.44), cobalt (0.005 to 0.032), chromium (0.007 to 0.089), iron (69.36 to 741.55), manganese (20.08 to 1521.15), mercury (0.0035 to 0.0177), nickel (1.32 to 10.68), lead (0.22 to 2.24) and zinc (16.44 to 30.04). Significant variation exists in the concentration of heavy metals in tea samples. Overall, the results of this study give current insights into the metal levels in analysed samples of teas which are commonly consumed in Podgorica. The variations in metals concentrations of the commercially available samples were attributed to several factors.

37 ref

016694   Coimbra M C;Chagas R C R;Duarte-Almeida J M; Castro A H F (Laboratory of Botany and Medicinal Plants, Universidade Federal de Sao Joao del-Rei, Divinopolis-Minas Gerais, 35501-296, Brazil, Email: acastro@ufsj.edu.br) : Influence of plant growth regulators and light on callus induction and bioactive phenolic compounds production in Pyrostegia venusta (Bignoniaceae). Indian J expl Biol 2017, 55(8), 584-90.

Callus culture allows production of bioactive compounds in a short time when there is limited availability of natural sources. In this work, we analyzed the influence of plant growth regulators and light on callus induction and the phenolic compounds contents in the calli of Pyrostegia venusta. Leaf explants were placed on MS medium containing 2,4-dichlorophenoxiacetic acid and 6-benzylaminopurine in the presence and absence of light. Callus induction was observed in media with plant growth regulators. The calli's colour and consistency ranged from green and compact to yellow and friable, respectively in the presence and absence of light. The interaction between 4.52 μM 2,4-D and 8.88 μM BAP in the absence of light provided the best friable calli, with total phenol and flavonoid contents at 0.25 ± 0.01 μg ATE mg^-1 DW and 0.15 ± 0.02 μg RE mg^-1 DW, respectively. Calli presented higher flavonoid contents than those in the initial explants. HPLC-DAD analyses showed bioactive phenolic compounds as gallic, caffeic and benzoic acid derivatives in hydromethanolic extracts of calli.

1 illus, 1 table, 37 ref

016693   Chowlu K;Mahar K S;Das A K (NO, Centre for Orchid Gene Conservation of Eastern Himalayan Region (COGCE, KVK-Sylvan Campus,Hengbung, Manipur-795 129, Email: ksmahar@gmail.com) : Ethnobotanical studies on orchids among the Khamti community of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Indian J nat Prod Resour 2017, 8(1), 89-93.

Other than the aesthetic values, orchids, the largest and most diverse group of flowering plants has a broad range of ethnobotanical applications. However, little work has been done on ethnobotanical studies of orchids used by the Khamti community of the North-East India. The present report is an account of the ethnobotanical uses of 4 medicinal orchids, viz., Cymbidiun aloifolium (Linn.) Sw., Cymbidium bicolor Lindl., Eria pannea Lindl., and Dendrobium fimbriatum Hook. among the Khamti community of the Lohit District of Arunachal Pradesh.

^ssc1 illus, 19 ref

016692   Blanco L;Thiagarajan T (Faculty of Science and Technology, Belize Univ, Belmopan, Belize) : Ethno-botanical study of medicinal plants used by the tucatec maya in the Northern district of Belize. Int J herb Med 2017, 5(4), 33-42.

The knowledge of plants used in traditional medicine by the indigenous communities is fast disappearing due to various reasons. This study made an effort to document the herbal knowledge that exists in the family circles of the Yucatec Maya communities of Northern Belize. Research was carried out in four villages in the Corozal and Orange Walk Districts during 12 weeks of fieldwork. A total of 59 plant species, grouped within 57 genera and 35 families that are used in traditional medical practices were identified and studied. Plants belonging to Rutaceae, Lamiaceae and Euphorbiaceae were the most commonly used species. The growth habits of plants reported include herbs (37%), trees (25%), shrubs (15%), trees/shrubs (plants having characteristics of both trees and shrubs) (14%), and vines (9%). The most common plant part used was leaves (66%), followed by bark, whole plant and flower (each with 7%). Of the total number of medicinal plants, 20 species were used to treat infections, 16 for digestive system disorders, 9 for skin/subcutaneous cellular tissue disorders, 7 for respiratory system disorders, 6 for endocrine system disorders, 6 for culture-bound syndromes, 5 for genitourinary system disorders, 4 for musculoskeletal system disorders, 4 for circulatory system disorders, 2 for injuries and 1 for sensory system disorders. Species cited more frequently by the most herbalists are regarded to be of greater ethnobotanical importance than those cited only by a few herbalists.

4 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref

016691   Anokwuru C P;Sigidi M T;Zininga T;Tshisikhawe M P;Shonhai A;Ramaite I D I;Traore A N;Potgieter N (Chemistry Dep, School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Venda Univ, Private Bag X5050; 0950 Thohoyandou, South Africa, Email: afsatou.traore@univen.ac.za) : Phenolic contents, antioxidant activity and spectroscopic characteristics of Pterocarpus angolensis DC. stem bark fractions. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 0000, 16(3), 400-6.

Oxidative stress has been implicated in the damage of biological molecules resulting in aging and diseases such as Alzheimer, cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders. The study aimed at determining the phenolic contents and antioxidant activities of Pterocarpus angolensis crude extract and fractions. The crude extract and fractions of P. angolensis were evaluated for their phenolic contents using Follin-Ciocalteu reagent. The antioxidant activities were evaluated using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and reducing power assays. Ultraviolet-Visible and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used to assess the spectroscopic characteristics. We obtained 7 fractions from the crude extracts after column chromatography on silica gel 60. The results showed that fraction two (PaF2a) displayed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity (18.7 μg/ml) but had the lowest phenolic content while fraction three (PaF2b) exhibited the highest reducing power activity (44.28 μg/ml) with high phenolic content. Spectroscopic details showed that PaF2a had maximum absorbance at 287.1 nm while PaF2b displayed maximum absorbance at 288.2 nm. The infra-red spectroscopy presented four main characteristic fingerprinting at 1606, 1518, 1444 and 1064 cm^-1 as fingerprints for P. angolensis. There was a difference in the wave number at C==C and C-O vibrations between PaF2a and PaF2b. In conclusion, this study has shown that PaF2a and PaF2b are the antioxidant rich fractions of P. angolensis stem bark and exhibited different spectroscopic characteristics.

1 illus, 3 tables, 35 ref

016690   Alam P;Abdin M Z;Ahmad N;Baig M S; Sharaf-Eldin M A;Elkholy S F (Biology Dep, College of Science and Humanities, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz Univ (P, 11942 Alkharj, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Email: alamprez@gmail.com) : Functional characterization of cytochrome p450 variant (CYP71) isolated from Artemisia annua L. plants. Int J pharm Res Allied Sci 2017, 6(1), 22-46.

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenase isolated from anti-malarial Artemisia annua L. plants belongs to the family Asteraceae is involved in artemisinin biosynthesis considered as a vigorous anti-malarial drug. To understand the structural and functional features of amorpha-4,11-dienemonooxygenase, a variant of cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP71) may help in the up-regulation of artemisinin. In this context, biocomputational approaches were used to study the amorpha-4,11-diene monooxygenase catalytic features related to other biosynthetic enzymes targeted from artemisinin biosynthesis. The full-length gene was cloned from a high yielding artemisinin strain of the A. annua L. plant with size of (2054 bp) and encodes for the CYP71 protein (495aa) protein residues with different conserved domains/motifs. The molecular weight <126>55.73kDa and isoelectric point 9.13 of CYP were observed through in silico analysis. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that cyp71 gene of A. annua was evolutionary conserved with other plant species of cytochrome family. The Modelled 3D structure of CYP71 protein has shown the catalytic relationship between the three different ligand molecules such as farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP), omega 4,11-diene (AD) and artemisinic alcohol (AA). The in silico information showed a key role of binding of these molecules for up-regulation of artemisinin biosynthesis and its accumulation.

6 illus, 5 table, 35 ref

016689   Alaila A K;Hamad H M E;Ali R F M;Hasan H M A (Botany Dep, Faculty of Science, Omar El-Muktar Univ, Libya, Email: drhamadmhasan85@yahoo.com) : Phytochemical screening of some herbal plants (Menthe, origanum and salvia) growing at al-gabal al-akhdar region-libya. Int J Pharm Life Sci 2017, 8(4), 5500-3.

Herbal plants have bioactive compounds which are used for curing of various human diseases and also play an important role in healing. The present study involves three different herbal plants (menthe, origanum and salvia). Which locally available at al-gabal al-akhder region of Libya. The leaves and steams of the selected herbal plants were washed, air dried and then powdered. The aqueous extract of leaf and steam samples were used for the phytochemical analysis to find out the constituents in the plants. The main objective of the research work was to check the presence or absence of the phytochemical constituents in all the selected herbal plants. The results of the phytochemical analysis of these herbal plants showed that the Tannins, saponins, carbohydrate, glycosids were found in both of steams and leaves of the selected plants. On the side the (Sterols, Flvonides and coumarins) were recorded in some plants and absent in the other ones.

1 table, 18 ref

015806   Zaman K;Chetia D;Ali M (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, Dibrugarh Univ, Dibrugrah-786 004, Email: z_kamar2003@yahoo.com) : Isolation of two new cheilanthane-type tricarbocyclic sesterterpenoids from leaves of Caesalpinia crista Linn.: A traditionally used antimalarial plant of Assam, India. Asian J Chem 2017, 29(3), 485-8.

Caesalpinia crista L. (family Caesalpiniaceae) is a large scandent prickly evergreen shrub widely distributed in south-eastern Asia, Nigeria and Pacific region. The leaves are useful to cure skin infections, sore throat, intestinal worms, hepatic disorders, malaria and leprosy. Phytochemical investigation of a methanolic extract of the leaves of C. crista afforded two new cheilanthane-type tricarbocyclic sesterterpenoids characterized as 4α,4β,8β,13<98> -tetramethyl-14-(17-methyl-pent-14-enyl)-perhydrophenanthrene-11 <97>-ol-22-oic acid (1, cristasesterterpenoic acid) and 4α,4β,8β,10<98>,13β- pentamethyl-14-(-17-methylpent-14-enyl)-perhydrophenanthrene-3<9 8>-olyl-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (2, cristasesterterpinol glucoside). The structures of these compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectral data analysis and chemical reactions.

21 ref

015805   Yonzone R (Taxonomy and Ethnobiology Research Laboratory, Cluny Women's College, P.O. Kalimpong, district Darjeeling, West Bengal, Email: ryonzone99@gmail.com) : Exact distributional record of medicinal orchid species Dendrobium chrysanthum wall.ex lindl. in Darjeeling Himalaya of West Bengal, India. Life Sci Bull 2016, 13(2), 143-4.

While working on Orchid Flora of Darjeeling Himalaya (2007-2016), the author came across some interesting specimens of Dendrobium Orchid species. After critical examination and comparison with other authenticated specimens and literatures (King & Pantling, 1898; Pearce & Cribb, 2002; Yonzone et al., 2012 and Yonzone, 2015), it was identified as Dendrobhim chrysanthum Wall. ex Lindl. Voucher specimen was deposited in the Herbarium of Cluny Women's College, Kalimpong. A detailed taxonomic account of the species based on the fresh specimens along with exact distributional record, medicinal - 134 - uses, availability status, altitudinal range, specimen examined and geographical distribution is provided in the present paper.

1 illus, 10 ref

015804   Yonzone R (Taxonomy and Ethnobiology Research Laboratory, Cluny Women's College, P.O. Kalimpong, Districtm Darjeeling (W.B.)) : Present distributional record and availability status of Piper longum L. (Piperaceae) a useful ethnomedicinal plant of Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. Life Sci Bull 2016, 13(2), 141-2.

Piper longum L. (Piperaceae) is locally known as 'Pipla or Pipala' in Nepali, 'Kautin' in Lepcha and 'Long Pepper' in English. Plant perennial aromatic crepper with slender puberulous stem. Leaves ovate-cordate, 4-10x3-8 cm, bluntly acuminate, upper narrower, sessile, base cordate-auriculate, 5-7 nerved; petioles 1-5 cm. Inflorescence spike, flowers dioecious. Male spike yellow, slender 4-8 cm; peduncles 2-4 cm; bracts stalked, peltate. Stamens 2. Female spikes cylindric, 1.5-2.5 cm; peduncles 1 -2.5 cm; stigma 3-4. Ovary one celled; ovule solitary; style short. Fruiting spikes 2-3 cm, fleshy. Fruits drupes densely coherent, globose, one seeded berry. Seeds globose, teesta thin.

8 ref

015803   Vinod Kumari;Gehlot R K (Botany Dep, Government Dungar College, Bikaner, Rajasthan, Email: kumari.vinor13@gmail.com) : Balanites aegyptiaca (Linn.) delile - an ethnomedicinally important taxa in arid region of Rajasthan. Life Sci Bull 2016, 13(2), 109-14.

Balanites aegyptiaca (Linn.) Delile is a xerophytic plant of arid region of Rajasthan. It is a small spiny tree with gregarious habit. It offers food, fodder, medicinal product and fuel wood for subsistence living in desert areas where other options are few. Leaves and fleshy pulp are often used as famine food because they are good source of protein. Present review highlights the ethnomedicinal importance of this taxa. It is used in Ayurvedic and other folk medicines for treatment of various diseases. It is a good source of saponins and steroidal sapogenins and has been reported to contain diosgenin. Therefore it can be utilized as alternate source of Dioscorea deltavadia. Besides its anti-pathogenic activities in several diseases it has great potential to become a source of biodiesel. Seeing the importance of this taxa, its plantation should be promoted in desert region.

^iia1 illus, 53 ref

015802   Tcheghebe O T;Seukep A J;Tatong F N (Inorganic Chemistry Dep, Univ of Yaounde I, Cameroon,) : Ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical and pharmacological profiles, and toxicity of Sida acuta Burm.f.. Pharma Innovation 2017, 6(6), 1-6.

For thousands of years, plants and herbs have been a tremendous source of food and medicine. Various parts of Sida acuta have been reported in many studies to be used by indigenous people from tropical countries to manage some health problems: rheumatic affections, azoospermia, oligospermia and spermatorrhea, leucorrhoea, wounds, sciatica, nervous and heart diseases, cold, cough, asthma, tuberculosis and respiratory diseases, disorders of the blood, bile and liver, elephantiasis, hemorrhoids, ulcers, gastric disorders and abdominal pain, headache, fever and malaria, skin diseases, worms, diarrhea and dysentery, venereal diseases, renal inflammation, toothache and snake bites. Sida acuta has been scientifically studied for its numerous pharmacological profiles such as: antioxidant, antimicrobial and antibacterial, antimalarial, cardiovascular, antiulcer, analgesic and anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, insecticidal and anticancer. Moreover, it has been proved that there was no mortality in rats administered with this plant extract up to a dose level of 2000mg/Kg body weight. Bioactive constituents such as alkaloids, saponins, coumarins, steroids, tannins, phenolic compounds, cardiac glycosides, sesquiterpene and flavonoids, significantly present in the plant extract, account for its multiple properties and uses in - 133 - traditional medicine. This review study is an attempt to give a detailed survey of the literature on the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical and pharmacological profiles, as well as the toxicity of Sida acuta.

^iia55 ref

015801   Singh R (Botany Dep, Govt. P.G. Autonomous College, Satna, Madhya Pradesh, Email: rashmi2013.rs@gmail.com) : Bacillariophytes of Satna city of Madhya Pradesh. Life Sci Bull 2016, 13(2), 153-4.

Wetlands of Satna district of Madhya Pradesh forms a potential risk for the environment due to human load by continuous recreation and tourism activities. Taste and odour of water of these wetlands linked with the presence of algal blooms. Some Bacillariophytes in wetlands of Satna city were observed and found that six genera were belonging to ten species. These species forming more eutrophk condition of wetlands.

5 ref

015800   Santosh;Malii M C;Barupal G K (Botany Dep, Government Dungar College, Bikaner, Rajasthan, Email: gkbarupal@yahoo.com ) : Freshwater chlorophycean diversity of Kodamdesar and Kalyan Sagar ponds of Bikaner region, Rajasthan. Life Sci Bull 2016, 13(2), 129-34.

The present investigation deals with the floristic study of 34 taxa of Chlorophyceae belonging to 16 genera from Kodamdesar and Kalyan Sagar ponds of Bikaner region. Present investigation was carried out for the period of one year from July, 2012 to June, 2013. The maximum species were noted of Scenedesmaceae and Desmidiaceae (9) followed by Hydrodictyaceae (6), Selenastraceae (4), Coelastraceae (2) Cholorococcaceae (1), Botryococcaceae (1), Characiaceae (1) and Zygnemaceae (1). Scenedesmus were designated as major taxa showing maximum variation in species diversity.

1 table, 18 ref

015799   Ramana M V;Venu P;Sanjappa M (Botany Dep, Nizam College, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 001, Email: pvenu.bsi@gmail.com ) : Implications of mistaken identities in conservation of wild mangoes. Curr Sci 2017, 112(6), 1107-8.

1 illus, 10 ref

015798   Neeraja PV;Margaret E (Botany Dep, Ann's College for Women, Mehdipatnam, Hyderabad-500 028) : Therapeutic properties of Jatipal Myristica fragrance Houtt. Int J pharm chem biol Sci 2016, 6(4), 385-94.

Myristica fragrans Houtt, traditionally known as Jatiphal and Javitri in India, belongs to the family Myristicaceae is known for its flavour and therapeutic action since 18th centaury in alternative medicinal systems. It is a good body detoxifier, stimulates the brain. Ethanol extract shows antifungal, spasmolytic, carminative, hepatoprotective, antiviral, anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, antimicrobial properties. Nutritionally, nutmeg is rich in energy, carbohydrates, proteins and dietary fibre. Seed is a rich source of vitamins. It also contains electrolytes minerals and phytonutrients including carotene-B and crypo-xanthin. Myristica fragrans has a lot of industrial applications in liqueurs, soap production and cosmetics. This review article elucidates the information regarding the phytochemistry and pharmacological activity of the plant which provides the basis for further research.

69 ref

015797   Mhaiskar MN (Botany Dep, R.S. Bidkar College, Hinganghat, dist-Wardha, Maharastra-442 301) : Assessment of nativity and acclimatization of cultivated plant species in Hinganghat taluk of Wardha district (MS). Int J pharm chem biol Sci 2016, 6(4), 443-6.

In the present paper 93 plant species belonging to 43 families of cultivated plant species have been recorded from Hinganghat taluka of Wardha district. These families include Fabaceae with dominant with 22 species followed by Poaceae and Cucurbitaceae (7), Umbellifeare (5), Solanaceae (5), Rutaceae (4), Liliaceae (4), Brassicaceae (3), Apocyanaceae (2), Zingiberaceae (2), Chenopodiaceae (2), Malvaceae (2), Anacardiaceae (2), Nyctaginaceae (2) Convolulaceae (1), Amaranthaceae (1), Pedaliaceae (1), Vitaceae (1), Annonaceae (1), Myrtaceae (1), Rhamanaeceae (1), Cariaceae (1), Puniaceae (1), Sapotaceae (4), Acanthaceae (1), Labiatae (1), Verbenaceae (1), Lythraceae (1), Asteraceae (1), Moraceae (1), Nymphaceae (1). Rosaceae (1), Moringaceae (1), Casurinaceae (1), Tiliaceae (1), Linaceae (1), Portulacaceae (1) and Arecaceae (1). Plant species are herbs, shrubs, trees and climbers. People depend on plants for food, clothes, shelter and medicine. These species are very useful for human welfare and hence monitors and controlling is necessary. The non-native plant species acclimatize in Indian environment. The process of acclimatization of cultivated plants to the soil environment has fully been survived.

1 table, 7 ref

015796   Indira K;Srinivasan M (Microbiology Dep, Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan College of Arts and Science for Women, Perambalur-621 212, Email: microind03@yahoo.co.in) : Diversity and ecological distribution of endophytic fungi associated with salt marsh plants. Indian J Geomar Sci 2017, 46(3), 612-23.

Suaeda species are annual halophytes growing in soils with high salinity. Healthy Suaeda maritima and S. monoica were collected from the Vellar estuary during March 2010 - - 131 - February 2011 at seasonal intervals for isolating endophytic fungal communities associated with stems and leaves. Totally 1200 segments were screened for isolating the endophytic fungi. Nine species were dominant and obtained from all season in both plants. The colonization rate was higher in S. maritima. In pre-monsoon season the isolation frequency of fungus was high in leaves of both plants. In leaf, the species diversity index, richness was higher in all the seasons. Cluster analysis and MDS in S. maritima, 78% in leaf, 65% in stem similarity occurred in the pre-monsoon and summer seasons. In S. monoica, 85% similarity occurred in the pre-monsoon and summer seasons in the leaf and 50% similarity was obtained in the stem during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.

9 illus, 5 tables, 67 ref

015795   Darzuli NP;Vronska LV;Groshovyi TA;Beley NM (Pharmacognosy with Medical Botany Dep, Ternopil State Medical Univ, Ruska 36, Ternopil, Ukraine) : Developement of methods of standardization of medicinal plants- Pyrola rotundifolia leaf. Pharma Innovation 2017, 6(8), 17-21.

The study object was medicinal herb - Pyrola rotundifolia leaf. To identify biologically active substances in medicinal plants, they used the thin-layer chromatography (TLC). TLC studies used a chromatographic plate Silica Gel 60 F254 (Mersk, Germany), a chromatographic chamber CAMAG, a samples applicator Linomat 5 (CAMAG, Switzerland), a UV lamp to view chromatograms CAMAG, and standard examples of flavonoids and phenolcarbonic acids (Sigma-Aldrich). Accurately weighed quantities of standard identification samples were dissolved in appropriate volumes of methanol and rutin - to quantify in ethanol (70% (v / v)). For quantitative determination of flavonoids, they used the differential spectrophotometry method with a spectrophotometer Cary-50. Content of flavonoids was converted in rutin. Applying modern approaches to standardization of medicinal plants, they processed methods of identification and quantification of flavonoids in Pyrola rotundifolia leaf. An identification criterion to be incorporated into the quality control technique applicable to medicinal plants is TLC determined flavonoids. They substantiated and experimentally proved that a quantitative indicator of Pyrola rotundifolia leaf is flavonoid content, a quantitative criterion of which still to be determined through analysis of more samples. Based on modern approaches to standardization of herbal medicines, they have processed methods for identification and quantification of flavonoids in medicinal plants - Pyrola rotundifolia leaf. They offered incorporating the TLC-based flavonoids identification method into the quality control procedures applicable to Pyrola rotundifolia leaf; identification markers shall be availability of four flavonoids, including hyperoside and luteolin-7-O-glucoside, and three phenol-glycosides, which may be arbutin derivatives. Methods to control quality of medical plant shall include quantitative determination of flavonoids by the spectrofluorimetric method. However, to establish quantitative criterion, further research is required using more samples of Pyrola rotundifolia leaf from different vegetation regions.

3 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

015794   Chandra S;Rawat D S (Biological Sciences Dep, College of Basic Sciences and Humanities, G.B Pant Univ of Agricultura, Patnagar-263 145, Email: drds_rawat@yahoo.com ) : Arenaria thangoensis W.W.Sm. (Caryophyllaceae), a threatened species hitherto considered endemic to Sikkim rediscovered from the Western Himalaya, India. Curr Sci 2017, 112(4), 693-5.

1 illus, 19 ref

015793   Ansari T;Saini V (Botany Dep, N.E.S. Science College, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Email: tabassumansarijbp@gmail.com) : Some less known ethnomedicinal plants used by traditional healers in Jabalpur region. Life Sci Bull 2016, 13(2), 149-52.

The present communication deals with thirty Angiosperm plant species of ethno medicinal plant used by the traditional Healers Jabalpur region. Through a survey during 2010-2011 first hand information on ethnomedicinal preparation dosage and their mode of administration was gathered, from herbal practitioners of local people. In this work ethnomedicinal information on 30 plant species belonging to 15 families and 15 genera was documented by interrogating the local traditional practitioners concerned scientific names along with their - 130 - family, vernacular names, part used and disease, cured by these plants have been discussed in this paper.

2 illus, 1 table, 33 ref

014750   Vijay C P;Thriveni M C;Shivamurthy G R (NO, Maharani's Science College for Women, JLB Road, Mysuru-570 009, Email: thrivenimc@gmail.com) : Seed surface micro morphological features of the holoparasitic angiosperm Aeginetia spp. (Orobanchaceae) in South India. Proc Indian Natn Sci Acad 2017, 83(1), 197-201.

The seed surface features of three Indian species of the genus Aeginetia (Orobanchaceae) was studied with the help of light microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy to understand the comparative morphology of the seed coat surface, and its utilization as a source of taxonomic evidence at the species level. The seeds of the three taxa show marked differences in their size, shape and surface ornamentation. Although Aeginetia pedunculata and A. sessilis show resemblances in their morphological and floral characters but differ in their seed coat sculpture. In A. indica the cells of the seed coat are alveolar and look like empty bunch of baskets with ribbed to scalariform thickenings on their lateral walls. In A. pedunculata outer tangential walls are retained but for a central ovoid depression or pore. In A. sessilis, however, the cells of the seed coat surface have a shallow depression. The micropylar end of the seed is smooth surfaced without any ornamentation. The comparative morphology of the seed coat surface in these three species of Aeginetia is discussed and its use as a source of taxonomic evidence is presented.

1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

014749   Tiwari S;Misra P C (Botany Dep, B.S Mehta Degree College, Bharwari, Kausambi, Uttar Pradesh) : Epidermal features of lindsaea cultrata. Indian J Life Sci 2017, 6(1), 13-17.

The occurrence of (willd)Swartz species belonging to the family Lindsaeaceae is reported from Darjeeling, West Bengal, India. The present paper deals with the anatomical details like structure of pinnae, structure of stomata, guard cells, other epidermal cells etc.Although several workers has reported about the pteridophytic plants from Darjeeling but it is the first time to work about the epidermal details of Darjeeling fern.

12 illus, 7 ref

014748   Thakur S;Ritika Kumari;Shukla L N;Srivastava D K (Botany Dep, B.R. Ambedkar Bihar Univ, Muzzaffarpur, Bihar) : Tissue culture study of Ocimum sanctum for initation of microshoot on nodal explants. Indian J Life Sci 2017, 6(1), 1-5.

Tissue culture study for initiation of microshoots from the nodal explants of L, an important medicinal herb has been carried out. Nodal explants were cultured on MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of 6- Benzyl amino purine (BAP) alone or with NAA, and Kinetin at (0.5 3.5 mg/l) concentrations. Maximum percentage of response for the induction of microshoots was obtained in MS + 1.5 mg/l BAP + 0.5 mg/l NAA (96.28), where as the number of microshoots at this concentration was 5.78 with average length of shoots 4.5 cm. BAP alone at 1.5 mg/l in MS medium could induce microshoots in 90.86% of the explants where the mean number of microshoots was 4.58 and mean length 3.42 cm, while at the same concentration kinetin in MS medium induced microshoots in 80% of the explants with mean number of microshoots 4.16 and the mean length 3.14 respectively. Here the highest response was 82.36 % the mean number of shoots 4.42 and mean length of shoots 3.24 cm in MS + 2.0 mg/l KN. Shoots with fully expanded leaves were used for rooting in MS medium supplemented with (0.5 2.5 mg/l) concentrations of NAA and IBA separately. Maximum response for rooting was found in MS + 1.5 mg/l IBA (78.36%) and the mean number of roots was 3.48.At the similar concentration of NAA the response was poor that is 26.24% only.

3 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

014747   Taylor E L S;Ferreira R L;Cardoso P G;de Resende Stoianoff M A (Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciencias Biologicas - Universidade Federal de Minas Gera, Av. - 92 - Antonio Carlos, 6627 - Pampulha - C.P. 486 - CEP 31270-901-Belo Horizon, Email: taylor.els@gmail.com) : Cave entrance dependent spore dispersion of filamentous fungi isolated from various sediments of iron ore cave in Brazil: a colloquy on human threats while caving. Ambient Sci 2014, 1(1), 16-28.

Caves are stable environments with characteristics favoring the development of fungi. The fungal community present in a cave also includes pathogenic and opportunistic species out of which some are also served as energy sources in such energy stared ecosystems. Studies on microbial diversity and their role on such energy starved ecosystem are scarce. The present study was aimed to identify the cultivable filamentous fungi present in the various sediment of an iron ore cave and to recognize them as pathogenic and/or opportunistic species. Further the impact of cave entrance on the spore depositions on various distances dependent sediments were analyzed. The results suggest a diverse microbial community inhabiting the cave and an influence of cave entrance over spore deposition on various sediments. We counted a total of 4,549 filamentous fungi that included 34 species of 12 genera: Acremonium, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Geotrichum, Paecilomyces, Purpureocillium, Penicillium, Torula, Trichoderma, Mucor and Rhizopus. A positive significant relation was observed between spore deposition and distance from cave entrance (p= 0.001). Areas of potential mycoses risks were recognized. This is the first study on microbiological community of an iron ore cave in the country.

4 illus, 1 table, 59 ref

014746   Sunil Kumar;Aara R;Chowdhary N (Zoology Dep, D.A.V. (P.G) College, Dehradun, Uttarkhand) : Monitoring of occupational and solar terrestrial ultraviolet radiation in Uttarkhand. Indian J Life Sci 2017, 6(1), 19-25.

The study regarding solar ultraviolet radiations has gained huge attention during recent years, because of its increasing effects at the Earth's surface due to ozone depletion. It affects many biological and photochemical processes, being quite harmful to individual organisms. Long- term exposure of humans to UV radiation is a big health hazard, inducing skin cancer, cataracts and immunosuppression. Scientists have thoroughly studied for many decades that the stratospheric ozone layer screens harmful ultraviolet radiation (UV-B) wave length 280-312 nm from the Earth's surface and protects against adverse effects on humans, the biosphere and physical degradation of materials. UV radiation is involved in different chemical, biological processes and affects human health, damages aquatic life, affects conservation and durability of materials, in addition to impacting global energy balance and climate change. Gases and particles due to absorption and scattering process affect UV transmittance across the Earth's atmosphere. Workers are occupationally exposed to UV-B and UV-A radiation during the welding process as UV rays are emitted which are harmful to workers. Monitoring of solar UV-B radiations was performed by measuring the intensities of solar UV radiations using Cole- Parmer radiometer having Vilber Laurmat France calibrated UV-B sensors with spectral sensitivity 312 nm. Four sites were selected for measurement of solar terrestrial UV-B radiation.Altitudinal, monthly and diurnal variations were observed and ASPUV and AWPUV were calculated. Natural solar UV-B level was minimum in December, January and February and maximum in months of June, July, August and September. Intensity of UV-B increases with increase in altitude. Results on monitoring of solar UV-B show diurnal, seasonal and altitudinal variations. Occupational exposure of UV-B was more in welders than annual average natural solar UV-B radiation. Solar UV radiation was found lower than Tibet. Cloud cover, air mass, dust, soot, pollution, climate, season, latitude, altitude and sun position affect the solar terrestrial UV radiations.

3 illus, 4 tables, 25 ref

014745   Sinha M K (NO, K.R.Technical College, Sarguja Univ, Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh) : Ethnomedicinal plants used in tribes of Bharatpur block (Koriya district) C.G. J med Pl Stud 2017, 5(4), 17-21.

Present communication brings to knowledge the traditional methods of treating human diseases and disorders using plant-based drugs recorded from tribal and rural folks in Koriya district (C.G.). The present paper is a study of the traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and its use by local people of Koriya district. it has rich variety of plant - 91 - species. Medicinal plants are the principal health care resources among the most of people in India. Local people of this region are basically depends upon medicinal plants for their primary health care system. Their primary cure of diseases is based upon deep observation of nature and their understanding of traditional knowledge of medical practices. Local people in this region, especially tribal people and women heavily use these traditionally available medicinal plants for health and believe that these are easily available, less expensive and have no side effects as compare to modern medicine. A total of 42 plant species belonging to 32 families of angiosperms are employed by the inhabitants in the form of infusion, decoction, oil, paste, latex, etc. either as a sole drug or in combination to treat various ailments. and method of administration are given along with botanical name, family, plant's part/form of recipe used and local plant names. The folk herbal formulations however, require further testing.

25 ref

014744   Singh R;Tiwari T;Chaturvedi P (Biological Science Dep, CBSH, G.B Pant Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar. Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarkhand) : Rheum emodi wall ex. meissn (Indian Rhubarb): highly endangered medicinal herb. J med Pl Stud 2017, 5(4), 13-16.

Rheum emodi or Indian rhubarb is one of the important medicinal herb used in Chinese herbal medicine since 2700 BC and now days it is used in large number of pharmaceutical industries because of its highly valuable medicinal properties viz., anti-cancerous, anti-microbial, anti-ulcer as well as anti-fungal. It is also used as one of the important ingredient in ayurvedic medicines such as chinimco tablets, kankayanvati, arjin tablets etc. Roots and rhizomes are the main parts for uprooting that possesses various secondary metabolites viz., anthraquinone (emodin, aleo-emodin, rhein, chrysophanol, physcion), stilbene (piceatannol, resvertrol) which are used in treating various type of cancers and other ailments like jaundice, headache, migraine, paralysis, sciatica, asthma, diarrhoea and liver disorders etc.

1 illus, 41 ref

014743   Singh R K;Mishra P K (Botany Dep, Vinoba Bhave Univ, Hazaribagh, Jharkhand) : Advances in micropropagation of teak (Tectona grandis L.f).. Indian J Life Sci 2016, 5(2), 11-16.

A successful - 90 - procedure has been developed for the In vitro propagation of Teak. The explants were collected in the month of March. Sterilization of the explants was done with the use of both 10% Sodium Hypochlorite & 1% solution of Mercuric Chloride. After the proper sterilization, the explants were trimmed & inoculated in the establishment medium (MS Basal medium + Adso4 10mg/l + Citric Acid 40 mg/l + activated charcoal 0.1% + Sugar 30 g + ph -5.7). After successful cultures establishment, the cultures were transferred to the various trails of shoot multiplication medium. Among the various trials the trail code T3 (1/2 MS medium + BAP 1.5 mg/l + IAA 0.05 mg/l + Kinetin 0.5 mg/l + Sucrose 30 g/l+ Agar 5.7 g + ph 5.8) showed the excellent result with 4.6 mean no of shoots with mean height of 5.8 cm in four week time. The shoots were healthy, leaves were properly opened, and no sign of vitrification was noticed. For root induction various trails were conducted, among the trail code RT4 (1/2 MS basal medium +1mg/l NAA + Sucrose 30g/l + Agar 5.8g/l + ph 5.8) showed the best result, with 98% rooting in four week time. Well elongated & rooted cultures were selected for the acclimatization. For proper hardening two steps method of hardening was conducted. In primary hardening the plants were transplanted in pro-tray filled with coco-peat & sand. Plants were kept in 90% humidity. After 1.5 month the when the plants were primarily hardened, then again plants were transferred to the secondary hardening medium (Coco peat+ Red soil+ coco peat) in the ratio of 1:1:1.). After 1.5 months the plants were properly hardened & developed for the field plantation. This method was found very satisfactory for the quality mass production of teak planting materials in short period of time with excellent morphology.

17 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref