004307   Jain U;Bhansali S (Botany Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004) : Effect of certain heavy metals on pigment contents of seedlings of Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub. CV. RGC 936. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 127-30.

Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub. is known as "guar". Total chlorophylls and carotenoids were calculated from seedlings treated with five heavy metals. It was observed that Cd and Pb in comparison to Zn, Cu and Ni drastically reduced the total chlorophyll content at 1000 ppm concentration. The relative toxicity of heavy metals could be expressed as Cd> Pb> Ni> Zn> Cu.

2 tables, 20 ref

004306   Gopal Reddy P (NO, Padmashri Vikhe Patil College, Pravaranagar-Loni. Dist: Ahmadnagar, Maharashtra) : In vitro efficacy of Vitex negundo leaf extract on the growth of Alternaria solani. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 321-2.

The antifungal activity of Vitex negundo leaf extract was tested in vitro on Alternaria soloni inhibition of mycelial growth varied with the concentration. The percentage of inhibition increased with increase in the concentration of extract. This demonstrates the presence of antifungal compounds in the Plant.

1 table, 17 ref

004305   Dwivedi M;Agrawal K;Agrawal M (P.G. Botany Dep, Agrawal P.G. College, Jaipur-302 003, Email: agrawalkailash@gmail.com) : Fungi associated with fennel seeds grown in Rajasthan and their phytopathological effects. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 95-100.

Studies 127 seed samples of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) belonging to 21 districts of Rajasthan, state revealed asymptomatic seeds (29-100%), moderately discolored seeds (0.25-51.25%) and heavily discolored seeds (0.25-19.75%) in 127, 91 and 53 samples respectively in dry seed examination. The discolorations included light brown- black spots to general browning of seeds. 76 seed samples showed microsclerotia and black tip of Cercospora foeniculi (0.25-48.25%). 88 fungal species of 36 genera were recorded in incubation tests of which Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus spp., Curvularia spp., Drechslera tetramera and Fusarium spp. were dominant and pathogenic. These caused loss in seed germination, seedling symptoms and mortality of seedlings.

2 tables, 21 ref

004304   Dey V N;Yadav A S (Botany Dep, R R (Autonomous) College, Alwar-301 001, Email: Vishwa_5977@rediffmail.com) : Seed dynamics of Indigofera trita L. in a partially disturbed tropical dry deciduous forest. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 301-5.

Seed dynamics of Indigofera trita was studied by evaluating its production and the rate of buried seed under two depths in the soil over a two-year period m R R College campus, Alwar m north-east Rajasthan. The seed production was estimated in four study sites. Indigofera trita produced about 1707 seeds per m^{2 even in the highly disturbed Hajipur forest area, however, the seed production doubled in the partially disturbed RR college campus (3421) and tripled in the protected areas in R R college (4955) and the Bala-fort forest area (5751). Although it produces enormous seeds, about 740 seedsperm2 were collected only from the depth of 2.5 cm soil in RR College campus. The recovery of buried seeds declined constantly at 0.5 cm soil depth with 65 percent at the end of first year, however, it decreased rapidly to 27 percent in the second year of the study. On the contrary, the recovery of buried seeds was almost unchanged at 2.5 cm soil depth with. 83 percent recovery at the end of two-year study period. The survivorship of viable seeds decreased constantly to 22 percent at 0.5 cm soil depth whereas it remained 87.33 percent under 2.5 cm soil depth at the end of two year of study. A large fraction of the viable seeds of Indigofera trita entered into enforced dormancy after their burial in the soil while a small action acquired induced dormancy. The fraction of buried seeds that acquired induced dormancy was higher at 2.5 cm soil depth as compared to those buried at O.5 cm soil depth.}

4 illus, 3 tables, 23 ref

004303   Deora G S;Bhati D (Bryology Laboratory, Botany Dep, B.N. (P.O.) College, Udaipur-313 001) : Evaluation of antibacterialactivity of alcoholic crude extract of Anthoceros longii - a bryophyte on Xanthomas citri. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 281-3.

In vitro study was conducted to find out the anti phytopathogenic property of Anthoceros longii (Steph.) methanolic extract against Xanthmonas citri. The number of colonies and inhibition zone of this bacterium enriched with nutrient agar medium were examined after 24 and 48 hours. Biomass and optical density of this bacterium under the influence of various concentrations of methanolic extract in Broth were also evaluated to find out antimicrobial property of this plant. Number of colonies and biomass - decreased with increased concentrations of extract whereas inhibition zone increased respectively.

4 illus, 6 ref

004302   Deepa Rao H R;Goswami A (Botany Dep, Dunger College, Bikaner-334 001, Email: ashagoswami@hotmail.com) : Endogenosus ascorbic acid from some medicinal plants - in vivo and in vitro. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 297-9.

Four medicinal plants viz Adhatoda zeylanica, Barleria prionitis, Cassia angustlfolia, and Allanthus excelsa, were selected for in vivo and in vitro comparative estimation of endogenous ascorbic acid. Plants of nearly same age were selected from three local areas and various plant Parts were collected in flowering and fruiting season. Using seeds as explants unorganized cultures (calli) were initiated on MS medium supplemented with suitable concentrations of growth regulators for each plant species. Separated plant parts as well as calli harvested at maximum growth index (GI) were. analyzed for endogenous ascorbic acid. Calli (in vitro) of all plant species have shown higher amount of ascorbic acid as compared to plant parts (in vivo); the highest amount was observed in A. excelsa fruit (sin vivo) and calli (in vitro).

2 tables, 13 ref

004301   Das Guru S (Botany Dep, Ranchi Women's College, Ranchi-834 001) : Distribution and biodiversity of chlorococcalean flora in the phytoseston of a freshwater lake. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 149-50.

The occurrence, periodicity and biodiversity of Chloro coccalean flora of a freshwater lake have been described. This group of micro-algae exhibit two peaks (April-May, Sept-Oct) during the year. The population consists of 28 species belonging to 17 genera, with Scenedesmus as the predominant genus. In this lake their intensified occurrence is linked more with temperature than dissolved oxygen. The author concludes that their periodicity of appearance is closely associated with the availability of the preferential nutrients and their inherent physiological plasticity. It is suggested that survival strategies of Chlorococcales differ in lentic and lotic waterbodies.

1 table, 14 ref

004300   Chowdhury S;Datta A k (Botany Dep, Geneties and Plant Breeding Section, Kalyani University, Kalyani-741 235, Email: dattaanimesh@gmail.com) : Radiation induced macromutation in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 181-5.

Twenty viable namely chloroxantha, narrow leaf, elongated leaf, thick leaf, ovate leaf, ternate, long petiole, fasciated stem, thick stem, lax branching, bushy, unbranched stem, dwarf, early flowering, late flowering, white flower, small flower, round fruit and black seed were isolated at M₂ following gamma ( 50, 100,200 and 300Gyre ) and X-ray (50, 100,200 and 300Gyre) irradiations to dry seeds ( moisture content: 9.56% ) of sesame (Sesamum indicum L. var.B-67; family: Pedaliaceae). Over the M₂ population the mutants occurred in the following order: narrow leaf> thick leaf> early flowering> late flowering> dwarf> fasciated stem> black seed> elongated leaf = lax branching > small flower = white flower = thick stem> pigmented flower = unbranched stem > ternate = bushy = roundfruit > long petiole = chloroxantha = ovate leaf Mutation frequency was noted to be higher in X-irradiation (10.71%) than gamma irradiation (6.56%). Estimated total mutation frequency over M₂ population was 8.37%. Maximum frequency of mutation was recorded following 300Gy X-ray treatment. Spectrum of mutation varied among the doses of irradiations (gamma rays: 19, range: 2-14; X-rays: 15, range: 2-12).

9 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

004299   Chowdhury S;Datta A (Botany Dep, Genetics and Plant Breeding Section, Kalyani-741 235, Email: daltaanimesh@gmail.com ) : X-ray induced male sterility with phenotypic marker trait in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 273-5.

A male sterile mutant (100 Gy - X- ray; mutation frequency 0.032%) with stem fasciation was identified in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) at M₂ Male sterility was characterized due to the formation of 100.0 % sterile pollen grains and the pollens were smaller (compared to fertile pollen grains of normal plants) and variable in sizes. Meiosis was normal (2n = 26 ) in the mutant 13II at MI and 13: 13 separation at AI always ). Male sterility seems to be controlled by single pair of alleles. Pleiotropic nature of the male sterile gene has been predicted.

4 illus, 8 ref

004298   Chauhan D S (Botany Dep, Har Sahai PG College, Kanpur-208 012) : Aquatic and marshy plants of Auraiya and Etawah districts (U.P.) India. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 123-6.

Auraiya and Etawah districts of Kanpur division (U.P.) India are a rich source of natural water system like rivers; tributaries, lakes, pond and irrigation canals. The districts have more than 140 aquatic and marshy plants explored during the research. The systematic description of these plants is given with family of each taxon.

2 ref

004297   Chaturvedi S (Anugrah 18, Nagnechiji Schene, Bikaner, Rajasthan, , , Email: chaturvedi_sangeeta@hotmail.com) : Algal biofouling on ceramic surface. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 325-6.

Attempts were made to collect Algal samples in different months of the year. During the month of August algae found were Gleothece linearis, Ulothrixtennerima, Chlorella vulgaris, Closteridium lunula, Navicula gracilis, Stauroneis anceps var. hyaline, Scenedesmus dimorphs, Cyclotella menenghiana, Diatoma vulgare, Nitzschia palea, Chlorococcum humicola, Stauroneis Phoenicen.tronvar. crumenifera. It has been found that use of ceramic tile is safer as compared to other surfaces because Of less growth of alga.

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

004296   Bhogaonkar P Y;Marathe V R (NO, Govt Vidarbha Institute of Science ad Humanities, Amravati-444 604) : Begonia crenata dryand, (Begoniaceae) - a wild edible medicinal herb of Melghat, Maharashtra. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 327-8.

Tribals, forest dwellers and rural folk living in interior area still depend on their traditional knowledge to fulfill daily needs. About 3900 plant species are known to be used as subsidiary food/vegetables by tribals. However, scanty information is available regarding their nutritional status . Deals with nutritional as well as nutraceutical status of B crenata Dryaod, which is favored beautiful wild edible as well as medicinal herb used by Korkus of Melghat.

3 tables, 19 ref

004295   Bhalla R;Ajay Kumar (Floriculture and Landscaping Dep, College of Horticulture, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horti, Nauni, Solan-173 230, Email: rajeshmallika@rediffmail.com) : Response of plant bio-regulators on dormancy breaking in gladiolus. J ornamental Hort 2008, 11(1), 1-8.

Deals with "Response of different plant bio-regulators on dormancy breaking in gladiolus cv. White Prosperity", were undertaken at two locations i.e. Nauni-Solan and Bhota-Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh, during February 2003 and September 2003. In this experiment, plant bio-regulators used were gibberellic acid (GA₃), ethrel and thiourea and the corms were planted in February 2003 at Nauni, whereas, at Bhota planting was done in September 2003. Ethrel 1500 ppm was the most effective in causing earlier sprouting and earlier flowering in both the plantings. Tallest plants with more number of leaves were produced when the corms were treated with GA₃ 300 ppm and planted in February 2003 and September 2003. Longest spikes with maximum number of florets per spike were produced when the corms were treated with GA₃ 300 ppm and planted in February 2003 and September 2003. GA₃ 300 ppm resulted in increasing the number, size and weight of corms on both the planting dates. This treatment was also effective in producing more number of heavier cormels.

4 tables, 13 ref

004294   Betty K P;Thoppil J E (Genetics & Plant Breeding Div, Botany Dep, University of Calicut-673 635, , Email: jethoppil@gmail.com) : Structural features of the glandular trichomes and elemental analysis of Plectranthus zeylanicus Benth. (Lamiaceae). J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 115-18.

Studies phological investigations of the secretory hairs on the leaves of Plectranthus zeylanicus Benth. (Lamiaceae) were made with the help of Scanning Electron Microscopy and identification of different elements associated with the leaves were carried out by Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy used in correlation with SEM in both in vivo and in vitro plants. Two types of glandular trichomes were found - peltate glands characterized by a short stalk with a large 4-8 celled head and long stalked capitate glands. The glandular distribution and morphology were almost similar and there is no significant difference in elemental composition in the comparative study of the parent plant and micropropagated plants.

8 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

004293   Bandyopadhyay S;Sasmal D;Ghosh M;Bora M; Biswas T K;Mihir Sarkar (NO, , NRC-Yak, Lohit, Arunachal Pradesh-792 104) : Antibacterial efficacy of neem (Azadirachta indica) against Moraxella bovis and Neisseria. Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(10), 1105-7.

Antibacterial efficacy of neem (Azadirachta of indica) against Moraxella bovis and Neisseria, was studied. N-MeoH decreased the bacterial growth in a dose-dependent manner. However, there was a distinct variability between the resistant strains and sensitive strains in their response to N-MeoH, which was more apparent in M. bovis isolates.

1 illus, 7 ref

004292   Baiswar P;Satish Chandra;Rajiv Kumar (Pathology Div, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam-793 103, Email: pbaiswar@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of different bio-control agents against Botrytis gladiolorum and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. gladioli of gladiolus under in vitro conditions. J ornamental Hort 2008, 11(1), 79-80.

^ssc1 table, 6 ref

004291   Anand V K;Shah N H (Botany Dep, University of Jammu, Jammu) : Ethno-medico-botany of some important aquatic plants of Jammu province (J&K) India. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 269-72.

The result of ethno-medico-botanical surveys among the inhabitants of the Jammu province is presented. The ancient knowledge of aquatic herbal use, still put into practice by tribals, locals and rural people of Jammu province have been recorded. 20 plant species belonging to 15 families are listed here with their 10caVcommon names and ethno medicinal uses to cure different ailments like fever, stomachache, diarrhea, headache, cough, rheumatism etc.

1 table, 11 ref

004290   Acharia S S;Rahman A;Jabbeen M (Botany Dep, R.D. & D. J. College, Munger-811 201, Email: fai_636@sify.com) : Allelopathic potential of Vicia spp. on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 285-8.

Allelopathic effects of aqueous extracts from shoot and root of Vicia spp. were studied on the seed germination, seedling length and dry weight of wheat. The four aqueous extracts (5%, 10%, 15% and 20% of Vicia spp. reduced all the test parameters in 7 days old wheat plants. The Vicia extracts reduced the germination arid seedling growth of wheat. The degree of inhibition was dependent on the concentration of extracts. Shoot extract was more inhibitory than root extract. This showed that better growth of these weeds occurred during initial stage of growth in rabi fields.

3 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

003270   Verma P K;Srivastava S C (Botany Dep, Lucknow Univ, Lucknow-226 007, Email: sri_scs@rediffmail.com) : Diversity and distribution of epiphytic liverworts (Hepatica) in Nilgiri hills (Tamil Nadu). Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt III), 253-64.

Work provides the floristic diversity of epiphytic liverworts (Hepaticae) of Nilgiri hills - an area that is considered as one of the 'hot spots' of biodiversity in this country (India), supplemented with their substrate specificity, life form and distributional pattern. The epiphytic bryophytes especially the liverworts show important morpho-forms of the hepatic vegetation of these hills.

1 illus, 1 table, 39 ref

003269   Umbare R P;Giram G B;Ganjiwale R O;Yeole P G (NO, A.S.P.M.'s K.T. Patil College of Pharmacy, Siddharth Nagar, Barshi Road, Osmanabad-413 501) : Quality evaluation of Euphorbia hirta leaves for antidiabetic activity. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2009, 3(3), 137-42.

Ethanol extract, total aqueous extract, aqueous extract and acetone extract of leaves of Euphorbia hirta at dose (300mg/kg, p. o.) were evaluated for anti-diabetic activity against Alloxan-induced diabetes in rats. These extracts of leaves of Euphorbia hirta upon phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of flavonoids, glycosides, tannins, saponins, alkaloids and proteins. The ethanol extract of leaves of Euphorbia hirta exhibited significant (p<0.01) hypoglycemic activity as well as significant (p<0.01) decrease in body weight at dose 300mg/ kg, p. o. on 21st day which was compared with standard drug glibenclamide (10 mg/kg, p. o.).

2 tables, 10 ref

003268   Sujatha B;Priyadarshini B (Botany Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: sujathaau@yahoo.co.in) : Ultrastructural changes in the root cells of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh] induced by low levels of cadmium in the medium. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(2), 107-10.

The studies on the ultrastructure of the root cells of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh] exposed to 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5mM Cd (cadmium as CdCl₂) for 6 days were made. The electronmicroscopic pictures revealed that Cd increased the vacuolation, damaged the subcellular structures like membranes, organelles and cytosol. Furthermore, electron dense globules of different sizes were noticed indicating that heavy metals like Cd get compartmentalized thus perhaps providing a mechanism to prevent further damages to the root cells.

1 illus, 12 ref

003267   Srivastav M;Tripathi S C (Post Graduate Studies & Research in Botany, Kisan P.G. College, Bahraich-271 801, Email: manjulla_srivastava@yahoo.co.in) : Ethnomedicinal flora of fabacea used for dermatological problems in district Bahrich of Uttar Pradesh. J Nat Conserv 2008, 20(1), 141-4.

Fabaceae is a significant family of angiospertns having cosmopolitan in distribution. Deals with 17 genera and 11 species of family growing frequently in this terai district of U.P. Rich phytogenetic diversity and "Thara" tribal population characterise this district. "Thara" tribes are endowed with vast knowledge of medicinal plants and have strong belief in magicotherapeutic properties of plants for treatment of various ailments. An attempt has been made to document the ethnophytotherapeuties and folk claims.

7 ref

003266   Singh M;Singh O P;Singh M P (Botany Dep, T.D. College, Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh) : Chemical changes in wetland margin soils. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt III), 219-26.

Deals with river Sai corridor at Jaunpur for changes in soil chemical properties of an abandoned land (site I) and winter cultivated land (site II) at bimonthly intervals, in different zones and depths. The pH of soil varied narrowly on alkaline side from 7.4 to 8.9 at site I and 7.3 to 8.7 at site II. It was distinctly higher during post-rainy and winter seasons. Organic carbon contents (site I, 1.000 to 5.417mg g^{-1 and site II, 1.020 to 5.580 mg g-1) were slightly higher at site II than site I, and were more in the surface soil and decreased down the depth in all the months of the two zones at both the study sites. Total soil nitrogen contents varied at different months and depths in the two zones on both the sites (site I, 0.176 to 0.500 mg g-1 and site II, 2.663 to 18.614 mg g-1). Its content was always high during the month of October and was more in the surface soil at both the sites. C/N ratio varied from 3.180 to 15.179 at site 1 and 2.663 to 18.614 at site II, and was extremely high in the month of October at both the sites. It fluctuated with respect to seasonality and site conditions. The available phosphorus in soil varied from 5.37 to 69.50 mg g-1 at site I, and 10.00 to 61.00 mg g-1 at site II. The lowest was in summer season and highest in flooded lower zone after the recession of flood-water in October. The amount of organic carbon (site I, 116.0 and site II, 125.8 ton/ha), total nitrogen (site 1, 15.9 and site II, 19.7 ton/ha) and available phosphorus (site I, 1.35 and site II, 1.64 ton/ha) varied distinctly during different seasons. Analysis of variance for nutrients showed significant variations for pH (significant for months), organic carbon (significant for depths and months), total nitrogen (significant for depths and months) and available phosphorus (significant for depths) at p<0.01 and p<0.001.}

5 illus, 25 ref

003265   Singh B;Singh H B (P.G. Dep of Botany K.S.S. (P.G.) College, , Aydohya-224 123) : Phytoplankton population of holy Bharat Kund waterbody of Faizabad district (U.P.). J Nat Conserv 2008, 20(1), 157-60.

In the qualitative studies of phytoplankton undertaken in the Bharat Kund reservoir showed a seasonal variation with distinct summer and winter peaks. Winter months were found to be less favourable to phytoplankton dynamics in the kund water.

1 table, 7 ref

003264   Rubesh Kumar S;Duganath N;Rao K N V;David Banji (Pharmaceutical Analysis Dep, Nalanda College of Pharmacy, Nalgonda-508 001) : Evaluation of anthelminthic activity of the flowers of some traditionally used medicinal plants. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2009, 3(3), 21-4.

Flowers of Lantana camara (family Verbenaceae), Punica granatum (family Lythraceae), Ixora coccinea (family Rubiaceae) and Tecoma stans (family Bignoniaceae) were collected during winter season and extracted using methanol. The anthelminthic bioassay was carried out against Indian earthworm Pheretima posthuma for all the crude methanolic flower extracts in various concentrations (0.1, 0.5, and 1 %w/v). Time of paralysis and time of death of the worms were considered as the parameters to assess the anthelminthic action. Albendazole and 5% DMF in normal saline were used as standard and control respectively. The results suggests that paralysis and death of worms found to be more at higher concentration of the crude methanolic flower extracts when compared to standard reference compound. Among them the methanolic extracts of Lantana camara showed greater anthelminthic activity when compared with the reference compound.

4 tables, 24 ref

003263   Ray A;Saha P K (Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, Agri-Horticultural Society of India, 1 Alipur Road, Kolkata-700 027) : Development of low glucosinolate containing genotype in Brassica juncea (L.) Czerniak.. J Bot Soc Bengal 2008, 62(2), 49-52.

Glucosinolate and its hydrolyzed products present in the seed meal of Brassica juncea (L.) Czerniak. after oil extraction produce harmful effects in animals when they are fed on it. A wild exotic strain of B. juncea was somatically hybridized with a high yielding local cultivar. Thirteen plants (SH₁) were transferred to field containing negligible amount of glucosinolate. The progenies of these plants (SH₂) exhibited a wide range of glucosinolate in their seed meal.

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

003262   Ravinder Kumar;Pandit A K (Aquatic Ecology Laboratory, Centre of Research for Development, Kashmir Univ, Srinagar-190 006) : Effect of water level fluctuations on distribution of emergent vegetation in Hokersar wetland, Kashmir. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt III), 227-33.

Highlights the species composition, community architecture and species diversity of emergent vegetation in a highly protected wetland, Hokersar of Kashmir Himalaya. The study revealed significant variations in species composition, frequency, density, abundance and Importance Value Index (IVI) of emergent community in the wetland. In all 30 species belonging to 18 families were collected. The highest number of species was recorded during late summer and autumn as against the lowest obtained during the period of greater water levels in spring, implying that varied species contribution arises under changing water regime. Water depth plays an important role in the presence, distribution and species diversity of vegetation especially the emergents. A few species contributed much towards the IVI while the majority of species appeared rare to the wetland. The presence of some eutrophication indicator species in the wetland, pointing towards their polymorphism, has also been highlighted in the study.

5 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

003261   Ramkrishna K (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, SKN College of Agriculture, (Rajasthan Agricultural Univ), Jobner-303 329) : Symbiotic studies on mothbean (Vigna aconitifolia Jacq. Marechal). J Arid Legume 2008, 5(1), 15-20.

^iia39 ref

003260   Patil N;Chitale R;Dhumal K N (NO, Post Graduate Research Centre in Botany, Tuljaram Chaurchand College, Baramati-413 102, Email: neelampatil_123@yahoo.co.in) : Role of oxygenated peptone in enhancing germination of tomato, bringal and chilli. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(2), 137-42.

Germination studies were carried out in seeds of solanaceous fruit vegetables viz. tomato, brinjal and chilli by giving pre-soaking treatment for 8 hrs with oxygenated peptone (1). The treatment caused stimulation of germination percentage, root and shoot length, fresh weight, vigour index, mobilization efficiency, emergence index, speed of germination and coefficient of velocity of germination. The biochemical constituents like proteins, total carbohydrates, DNA and RNA showed increase as compared to non-treated. The activities of enzymes like amylase, protease and catalase have significant increase. The overall results indicate that pre-soaking treatment of oxygenated peptone induced enhancement in germination process in test crops.

3 tables, 18 ref

003259   Nicky Singh;Samajpati N;Paul A K (Botany Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Development of salt tolerant rhizobia for Lathyrus sativus L. cultivation in coastal West Bengal. J Bot Soc Bengal 2008, 62(2), 63-6.

Survey of Rhizobia from root nodules of five different cultivars of Lathyrus sativus L. growing in coastal saline areas of West Bengal has resulted in the isolation of 45 isolates. These isolates showed different degrees of tolerance to NaCl in yeast-extract mannital medium and only 8 of them were able to tolerate 2% (w/v) NaCl. When tested for streptomycin resistance, 50% of them tolerated up to 400 mg/ml. Streptomycin resistant isolates showed 75-76% root infection comparable to wild type strains. One of the isolates, CON 35 showed high degree of survivality and recovery in both sterile and non-sterile soils and appeared to be an ideal candidate for field application in cultivating L. sativus L. in saline soils of West Bengal.

3 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

003258   Muralidhar K;Chaudhary R (Hormone Research Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi-7, Email: kambadurmurali2001@rediffmail.com) : Assessment of current protocols for the production of therapeutic gonadotropins. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt III), 189-210.

Gonadotropins are in demand because of their therapeutic potential in assisted reproductive technologies. Purification from urine, blood and pituitaries has been the preferred method till now. Extraction, bulk fractionation followed by fine separation has been the general approach. Micro-heterogeneity has been a bane for endocrinologists involved in purification of these hormones. Charge isoforms and size isoforms have been the major micro-heterogeneous forms of gonadotropins. In some cases i.e. human and farm animal gonadotropins differential charge based micro-heterogeneity has been ascribed to differential degree of sulfation or sialylation. Charge isoforms have been separated and purified in bulk by appropriate ion exchange chromatography. Differential glycosylation has also been observed to result in micro-heterogeneity. Lectin based affinity chromatography can separate many such isoforms. Other micro-heterogeneous forms like free subunits and their aggregates, oligomers of the native heterodimer hormones and peptide bond nicked hormones have also been observed. One possible reason for low yield of gonadotropin could be that, isoforms were getting differentially distributed in different side fractions. Group reactive affinity methods have been employed in obtaining enriched preparations containing all the isoforms. Special down stream processing techniques have to be developed for purification of recombinant gonadotropins. Synthetic superactive gonadotropin analogues have also been produced and purified. All the different forms of gonadotropins, natural and synthetic are extremely useful however, for structure-function relationship studies even though they pose technical challenge for purification.

4 illus, 183 ref

003257   Mishra A C;Negi K S;Shukla H Y;Sharma A K (NO, National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR), Regional Station, Bhowali 263 132, Niglat, District-Nainital, Uttarakhand, Email: officerinchargebhowali@yahoo.com) : Effect of spacing on the performance of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis Linn.) blue flowered genotype (NIC-23416) in mid hills of Uttarakhand under rainfed conditions. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(5), 528-31.

Study was conducted under rainfed field conditions at Bhowali, Uttarakhand. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis Linn.) was planted at three spacings, viz. 30x20cm, 40x30cm and 60x30cm between row to row. The results indicated that widest spacing of 60x30cm was the most favourable for plant height, plant spread, number of branches, stem diameter and herbage yield per plant in first, year whereas 40x30cm spacing was the best for these traits except herbage yield per plant in second year. But, spacing of 20 x30 cm was the best for herbage yield and essential oil yield per hectare. On the basis of analysis of essential oil at 12 and 14 months after planting it was concluded that optimum harvesting time of the crop lies in between these periods.

003256   Meena K L;Yadav B L (Botany Dep, MLV Government College, Bhilwara-311 001, Email: drblyadav@yahoo.com) : Senna uniflora (Mill.) Irwin & Barneby (Caesalpiniaceae)-A new record for Rajasthan. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(5), 525-7.

Senna uniflora (Mill.) Irwin & Barneby belonging to the family Caesalpiniaceae has been recorded for the first time from Mangrol and Laxmipura villages, 24km away in the South East of Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. The specimens were found growing along road sides intermingled with Senna tora (Linn.) Roxb. Morphological features, time of flowering-fruiting, ecological notes and key characters of this species have been reported.

003255   Mantri V A;Chaugule B B (Botany Dep, Pune Univ, Ganeshkhind, Pune-411 007, Email: vaibhav@csmcri.org) : In-situ and ex-situ evaluation of seaweed liquid fertilizers on seed germination, early growth and chlorophyll content of Trigonella foenum graecum Linn.. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt II), 158-63.

Effects of seaweed liquid fertilizers (SLFs) prepared from Sargassum tenerrimum J. Ag., Hypnea valentiae Turn. and Solieria robusta (Grev.) Kylin on seed germination, early growth and chlorophyll content of Trigone/la foenum graecum Linn. were evaluated in-situ and ex-situ. Among different seaweed concentrations tested in-situ viz. 10%, 30%, 50%, 70% and 100%; 10% extract of all the seaweeds studied was found to promote germination, hypocotyl and root elongation. SLFs prepared from dried seaweeds were more effective than fresh seaweeds at all the concentrations tested. Under ex-situ conditions 10% Hypnea valentiae extract showed one to two fold increase in root length, shoot length and leaf area and two fold increase in total chlorophyll content.

1 illus, 2 tables, 41 ref

003254   Mandal P;Misra T K;Sarkar A;Ghosh A;Sircar P K (Botany Dep, North Bengal Raja Rammohunpur Univ, Darjeeling, West Bengal-734 013, Email: nbubotanypalash@rediffmail.com) : Dynamic peptide profiles of germinating mungbean: in relation to their nature and separation pattern. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(2), 111-17.

Low molecular weight peptides (3 KDa to 0.5 KDa) from different germinating phases of mung bean [Vigna radiata (L) Wilczek. cv. Sonali B1] were purified through ion exchange, ultrafiltration and sephadex gel permeation chromatography. The peptides were subjected to paper chromatographic and capillary electrophoretic separation, for the determination of dynamic and temporal manifestation of their occurrence. Analysis of peptides revealed mainly two groups, one of which is constitutive throughout while the other mainly appeared after 24 hrs and disappeared at 5 days of post germination phases. Amino acid analysis of these peptides indicated adequate similarities with legume storage protein. Lack of cysteine and methionine in peptide pool indicated that they are active in all different shapes suitable for transport and absorption.

2 illus, 33 ref

003253   Kumar R N;Chakraborty S;Nirmal Kumar J I (Biosciences & Environmental Sciences Dep, N.V. Patel College of Pure & Applied Sciences, Vallabh Vidyanagar-388 120, Email: nvpas2003@yahoo.com ) : Biochemical constituents under different light intensities in Andrographis paniculata. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(2), 208-10.

An attempt has been made to study the effect of different light intensities on the concentration of total proteins, amino acids, carbohydrates and total chlorophyll in different parts of Andrographis paniculata. Increase in concentration of total proteins, amino acids and carbohydrates was observed in the plants grown in higher light intensity (1.44x10^{3- 2.24x103 μmol m2 s-1). The leaves of these plants showed increased amount of these metabolites compared to other parts. However, the total chlorophyll was found higher in the leaves of the plants grown in less light intensity (0.24x103-0.96x103 μmol m-2 s-1). The results suggest that less light intensity hinders the production of total proteins, amino acids and total carbohydrates, while it has promoting effect on the synthesis of total chlorophyll.}

^ssc1 illus, 13 ref

003252   Jana T K;Ghosh S N (Mycology and Plant Pathology Research Laboratory, Post Graduate Dep of, Presidency College, Kolkata-700 073) : New variety of Meliola mammeae Hansf. from Darjeeling district of West Benagl. J Bot Soc Bengal 2008, 62(2), 43-4.

One new variety of Meloila mammeae Hansf. collected from Darjeeling district of West Bengal (India), viz. M. mammeae Hansf. var macrosporae var. nov. causing leaf spot on Garcinia xanthochymus Hook. f. is described and illustrated in this paper. The type specimen has been despostied in the Herbarium, CAB, International Mycological Institute (IMI 215567), U.K.

1 illus, 13 ref

003251   Jadhav N A;Gavimath C C;Kundargi R;Raghuveer (Botany Dep, Bhaurao Kakatkar College, Belgaum-590 001) : Antibacterial potentials of essential oils from seeds of Hydrocotyle javanica, Pinda concanensis and Carum copticum. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2009, 3(3), 167-9.

Essential oils from seeds of Hydrocotyle javanica Thunb. Pinda concanensis Mukh. and Carum copticum Linn, were obtained by hydro distillation using Clevenger apparatus and screened for antibacterial activity using both Gram's positive and Gram's negative bacteria by disc diffusion technique. The diameter of zone of inhibition obtained for these essential oils were compared with standard antibiotic streptomycin. The results of antibacterial activity revealed that essential oils of Hydrocotyle javanica exhibited highly significant antibacterial activity. The study suggests that these plants are promising for the development of phytomedicine for bacterial infections.

1 table, 12 ref

003250   Ghosh A C;Basu P S (Botany Dep, Burdwan Univ, Golapbag, Burdwan-713 104) : Growth behaviour, indole acetic acid production, its metabolism and extracellular polysaccharide production by a Rhizobium sp. from a leguminous tree Dalbergia lanceolaria linn. f.. J Bot Soc Bengal 2008, 62(2), 53-8.

High amount (7.4 mg/g fresh mass) present in the nodules might serve as a source of IAA production. Presence of IAA metabolising enzymes, IAA oxidase and peroxidase, revealed the metabolism of IAA in the nodules. The Rhizobium sp. isolated from the root nodules of D. lanceolaria produced high amount (22.3 mg/ml) of IAA from L-tryptophan supplemented basal medium. IAA production by the Rhizobium sp. was increased by 270% over control when the medium was suitably supplemented with mannitol, SDS, L-asparagine and biotin. Large amounts (112 rng/ml) of extracellular polysaccharides (EPSs) were also produced by this bacterium in cultural conditions. The EPS production by the Rhizobium sp. was increased by 1562% over control when the medium was suitably supplemented with mannitol, thiamine-HCl and potassium nitrate. Possible roles of IAA and EPS production in l3egume-Rhizobium symbiosis are discussed.

2 illus, 4 tables, 36 ref

003249   Ganguly G;Mukhopadhyay R (Pteridology Laboratory, Botany Dep, The Univ of Burdwan, Burdwan-713 104, Email: rnm13351@yahoo.com) : Diversity and pattern of vertical distribution of some epiphytic pteridophytes on their host plants of southern Sikkim, India. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt II), 147-57.

Objectives of the present work were to determine the epiphytic pteridophyte composition, pattern of vertical distribution and diversity of epiphytic pteridophytes on the host trees of Sikkim area as well as to demarcate the 'specialist species' (species having restricted vertical distribution). The occurrence of epiphytic pteridophytes in relation to the type of forest, altitude and environmental factors like rainfall, relative humidity and temperature have also been determined. It was found that the upper hill forest zone harbours the highest diversity of epiphytic pteridophytes. The richness of epiphytic pteridophytes was maximum in the upper foot of the host plants, while it was minimum in the tree top region. Pyrrosia lanceolata (L.) Farwell, Oleandra wallichii (Hook.) Pr., Polypodioides lachnopus (Wall. ex Hook.) Ching and Arthromeris walttchiana (Spreng.) Ching were found to have wide vertical distributions. While, Pseudodrynaria coronans (Wall. ex Hook.) Ching Microsorum punctatum (L.) Copel., Nephrolepis cordifolia (L.) Pr., Lepisorous ussuriensis (Regel et Maack) Ching, Polypodiastrum argutum (Wall. ex Hook.) Ching, Pyrrosia manii (Gies.) Ching, Selaginella involvens (Sw.) Spring and Ctenopteris subfalcata Blume ex Kunze have restricted vertical distribution on the host plants. Specialist species vary with the altitude, except two ferns and the generalist species were more or less common in different altitudinal zones.

2 illus, 29 ref

003248   Gadgile D P;Chavan A M (Botany Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad-431 004) : Effect of antibiotics, vitamins and fungicides on extra cellular pectinase enzyme activity of post-harvest fungi isolated from mango fruits. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2009, 3(3), 115-18.

Deals with the study of cellulase enzyme activity of post - harvest fungi of mango fruits under the influence of antibiotics, vitamins and fungicides. It was found that fungicide and antibiotics significantly inhibit pectinase activity of post- harvest fungi. However, all vitamins significantly induce pectinase activity of the same, except pyridoxine, which decreases pectinase activity of Rhizopus stolonifer and Aspergillus niger. Antibiotics increased pectinase activity of some post - harvest fungi of mango fruits.

3 tables, 6 ref

003247   Fatima B I;Iqbal S;Ali A;Arman M; Mahmood-Ul-Hassan (Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Laboratories Compelx arachi, Sharah-e-Dr. Salimuzzaman Siddiqui, Off. Univ Road, Karachi-75280, Pakistan, Email: fatima_bi220@hotmail.cm) : Induction of secondary metabolites in chickpea, pea, carrot and potato tisues in response to elicitor of Hypnea musciformis. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(2), 101-6.

Secondary metabolites were induced in chickpea, pea, carrot and potato tissues on treatment with high molecular weight crude elicitor preparations (HMWCEP) of red algal plant, Hypnea musciformis of Karachi coast. These metabolites were quantified with time and dose response of elicitor by using UV-visible spectrophotometer. The results indicated that chickpea, carrots and potatoes responded positively to the elicitor while no significant response was observed in pea tissues. The optimum elicitor doses for the maximum induction of induced secondary metabolites (ISMs) were 5 μg for pea tissues and 100 μg for remaining three plants. Similarly 24 and 48 h incubation periods were the optimum timing for the production of ISMs in these plants. High level of metabolites induction suggest that the seaweed polysaccharides, especially from red algal plant H. musciformis, can be used as potent plant protectant. The UV spectrophotometric method employed is less time consuming and technique is successfully used for the semiquantitative ISM analysis.

1 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

003246   Dubey P C;Sikarwar R L S;Khanna K K;Tiwari A P (NO, Conservator of Forest, Research and Extension Circle, Rewa-486 001, Email: rlssikarwar@rediffmail.com) : Ethnobotany of Dillenia pentagyna Roxb. in Vindhya region of Madhya Pradesh, India. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(5), 546-8.

Ethnobotanical study among the various tribal and folk communities of Vindhya region of Madhya Pradesh was carried out during the year 2004-2007. Detailed first hand information on ethnobotanical uses of Dillenia pentagyna Roxb., an endangered tree species, was collected, which accounts for many ethnical uses in the study area. The tribal and folk communities use the various parts of it for the treatment of their different ailments and diseases, viz. delivery (bark), bone fracture (leaf), body pain (root), piles (leaf), diabetes (bark), diarrhoea and dysentery (bark), etc.

003245   Devi S;Angrish R;Datta K S;Kumar B (Botany and Plant Physiology Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: profdatta@hau.ernet.in) : Antioxidant defence system in wheat seedlings under sodium chloride stress: an inductive role of hydrogen peroxide. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(2), 118-24.

The effect of exogenously supplied hydrogen peroxide on the enzymes involved in antioxidant defense and other related processes in wheat seedlings under NaCl stress was examined. Treatment with hydrogen peroxide activates the antioxidants especially cataJase, ascorbate peroxidase and glutathione reductase, however no such activation was observed in case of superoxide dismutase. Treatment with hydrogen peroxide lowers the endogenous level of hydrogen peroxide which is indicative of the activation of reactive oxygen species scavenging system in concomitant with improved growth of wheat seedlings leading to prevention of damage to membranes. However, hydrogen peroxide does not affect the osmotic potential and contents of mineral ions like K, Na and Cl. This clearly indicates that improved growth of wheat seedlings by hydrogen peroxide treatment does not involve osmotic adjustment. These results substantiate the contention that under salt stress conditions an " inductive pulse" of hydrogen peroxide treatment could partially alleviate the salt stress effects on plants.

3 illus, 43 ref

003244   Choudhury S;Rahaman C H;Mandal S (Botany Dep, Visva-Bharati, Santiniketan-731 235, Email: smandalbot@gmail.com) : Leaf epidermal micromorphology and wood element of four medicinally important species of Cassia L.. J Bot Soc Bengal 2008, 62(2), 67-80.

This investigation deals with the comparative studies of leaf epidermal micromorphology and wood element characters of the four medicinally important members of Cassia alata L., Cassia occidentalis L., Cassia sophera L. and Cassia tora L. In each case, the epidermal cells are irregular in shape and the outline of the cells varies from straight to wavy. Stomata are amphistomatic in all cases and mainly of paracytic types. Sometimes mixed types (e.g. anisocytic and anomocytic) are also found except in Cassia tora, Trichomes are mainly non-glandular, unicellular, straight to curved and simple type. The range of the stomatal index varies from 18.63 to 23.00. Palisade ratio of the four investigated taxa ranges from 7.24 to 11.07. The vessel element length ranges from 205.68 mm to 235.68 mm and the diameter varies from 38.57 mm to 64.28 mm. Perforation plate is simple in nature and transverse or obliquely placed. The fibres are typical libriform types, length varies from 171.4 mm to 214.25 mm and diameter ranges from 4.28 mm to 12.86 mm. In every case, tracheids are long with spiral to condensed spiral sidewall thickening and diameter is from 34.28 mm to 59.99 mm.

7 illus, 4 tables, 31 ref

003243   Chhajed M R;Tomar G S;Gautam S P;Hariharan A G (NO, Shri Gujarati Samaj College of Pharmacy, Near Bombay Hospital, Indore-452 010, Email: mahavirchhajed@rediffmail.com) : Phytochemical investigation and evaluation of In-vitro free radical scavenging activity of Flickingeria nodosa Lindl.. Indian J pharm Educ Res 2008, 42(4), 379-82.

Studies to evaluate the in-vitro free radical scavenging activity of aerial stems and pseudohulbs of Flickingeria nodosa Lindl. acetone and ethanolic extracts of aerial stems and pseudobulbs of Flickingeria nodosa Lindl. was prepared, with successive extraction in soxhlet apparatus. Each extract was selected to study the free radical scavenging activity by DPPH assay method. It was found that acetone extract contained carbohydrate, glycosides, proteins and amino acids, phenolic compounds and flavonoids; ethanolic extract contained carbohydrate, glycosides, alkaloids, saponins, phenolic compounds and flavonoids. TLC revealed that glycosides, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds are present in stem and pseudobulbs of Flickingeria nodosa Lindl. Acetone extract of Flickingeria nodosa Lindl had showed 47.24% inhibition of DPPH radical, which is 49.09% Free radical scavenging activity compared to standard, ascorbic, acid. Ethanolic extract also showed almost similar activity (46.92% compared to standard), while other extracts showed poor inhibition of DPPH radical. Studies reveal the free radical scavenging activity of the extracts of Flickingeria nodosa Lindl. this may be due to the presence of phytochemical constituents such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds.

1 table, 14 ref

003242   Bhattacharya S;Saha A K (Botany Dep, M.B.B. College, Agartala, Tripura) : Comparative analysis of mitotic abnormalities in Allium cepa L. induced by fungicide bavistin and dithane M45. J Bot Soc Bengal 2008, 62(2), 17-21.

The investigation provides a comparative analysis of cytotoxic effects induced by systemic fungicide Bavistin (Carbendazim 50% w/p) and non-systemic fungicide Dithane M45 (Mancozeb 75% w/p) in Allium cepa root tip cells. Experimental results revealed a dose dependent decrease of mitotic index and increased percentage of chromosomal abnormalities. Tested chemicals produced differential pattern of abnormalities in cytological parameters. Dithane M45 induced more pronounced cytotoxic effect as compared to Bavistin. Most common types of abnormalities were fragments in prophase, metaphase, anaphase, clumping in metaphase, and anaphasic bridge. Other types of abnormalities are recorded like stickiness in anaphase induced by Bavistin and ring, and multiple grouping in metaphase induced by Dithane M45. Statistical test revealed highly significant variation induced by various concentration levels of two fungicides and significant variation induced by two different fungicides on Ml.

13 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

003241   Bhat S R (Biological Oceanography Div, National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula, Goa-403 004, Email: bhat@nio.org) : Reflections on the discovery of toxic species of marine micro-algae known to form harmful blooms. Curr Sci 2008, 95(10), 1397-9.

2 tables, 3 ref

003240   Bharath B G;Lokesh S (Studies in Applied Botany Dep, Seed Pathology and Biotechnology, Mysore Univ, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: boramma@rediffmail.com) : Effect of light on the growth and sporulation of Myrothecium roridum and M. verrucaria. Seed Res 2008, 36(1), 93-4.

^ssc2 illus, 1 ref

003239   Bhanumathi A;Ravishankar Rai V (Studies in Applied Botany and Biotechnology Dep, Mysore Univ, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: rrai33@hotmail.com) : Seed mycoflora of some important forest tree species. Seed Res 2008, 36(1), 95-8.

1 table, 15 ref