002261   Kesha Vkant S;Sukhdev T;Srinivasarao C H; Naithani S C (School of Life Sciences, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla Univ, Raipur-492 010, Email: skeshavkant@gmail.com) : Antioxidant activities, phenols and flavonoid contents of Withania somnifera and Raunolfia serpentina. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(4), 394-9.

Oxidative damage caused by free radicals to lipids, proteins and nucleic acids can trigger various chronic diseases such as coronary heart diseases, atherosclerosis, cancer, AIDS and ageing. In treatment of these diseases, antioxidant therapy has gained an immense importance. Current research is now directed towards finding naturally occurring antioxidants of plant origin. In the present study, we carried out a systematic record of the relative antioxidant activity in two selected medicinal plant species extracts. Our findings clearly indicated higher levels of both flavonoid (160.88mg g^{-1 dry weight of leaf) and phenolic (mono di and total, 196.32, 65.25 and 268.61mg g-1 dry weight of leaves, respectively) contents in the extracts of Withania somnifera compared to Rauwolfia serpentina (flavonoid 127.7 mg, monophenol 170.58mg, diphenol 43.13mg and total phenol 223.32mg g-1 dry weight of leaf, respectively). Similar results (W. somnifera: 47.34 and R serpentina: 35.54 % inhibition g-1 dry weight) were also obtained for in-vitro superoxide anion scavenging capacity.}

^ssc1 table, 29 rf

002260   Kavale T R;Patil M S (Botany Dep, Ajara Mahavidyalaya, Ajara, Kolhapur-416 505) : Coleosporium plumeirae Lev., a rust new to the Maharashtra state. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(4), 368-70.

Rust belonging to the genus Coleosporium Leveille viz. C. plumeirae Pat. is illustrated and described which was collected on Plumeria acutifolia Poir. (Fam.: Apocynaceae). Both mature and young leaves were found to be equally susceptible to the pathogen. Severe infection often resulted in early leaf abscission. The hyperparasite viz. Cladosporium cladosporioides (Fres.) de Vries is also found associated with uredinia on some leaves. This rust is reported for the first time in Maharashtra state.

6 illus, 20 ref

002259   Kansagra M;Pawar V;Bhatt K;Chaudasana Thaker A (NO, , ) : Role of cationic and anionric peroxide in browning of multiple shoots of learnation (Dianthus caryophylus L.) in vitro. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(3), 317-19.

002258   Kadam R M;Nagpurne V S;Allapure R B;Kamble R A;Jadhav B S (Botany Dep, Mahatma Gandhi Mahavidyalaya, Ahmedpur-413 515, Email: mk76@rediffmail.com) : Hypodermella cajanii-new ascomycetes from Maharashtra. J Nat Conserv 2008, 20(2), 309-10.

The Ascomycetes is the largest group of fungi which are highly diverse and versatile organisms adopted to all kinds of environment. In the present paper the genus Hypoderme/la cajanii sp. novo recorded on Cajanus cajan Linn. from Udgir region. Distt. Latur (M.S.) on critical morphological studies. Hypoderme/la cajanii has been found on new host and new to science. Also it constitutes the first generic record from Maharashtra.

3 illus, 8 ref

002257   Kadam R M;Nagpurne V S;Allapure R B;Kamble R A;Jadhav B S (Botany Dep, Mahatma Gandhi Mahavidyalaya, Ahmedpur-413 515, Email: rmk76@rediffmail.com) : (NULL). J Nat Conserv 2008, 20(2), 173-5.

Spores are both the end and the beginning of the development of fungi. It was found that most of the nutrients showed different effects with their different nutrients concentration and also show temperature influences the amount of spore germination in Ascospore. Earlier, Hansford (1961) has attempted to germinate the Ascospore of several pecies of Meliola both in the laboratory in different media and on th ir h sts in the natural condition. Later on Thite (1925) also tried to germinate the Ascospore Meliola jasminicola both in laboratory indifferent media and Natural condition. We have studied mode of Ascospore germination of genus Hyslerium annonae sp.nov. on different media for 24 hours at 25 to 30°C temperature observe the germ tube growth and percentage of their germination.

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

002256   Kadam R M;Kamble R A;Nagpurne V S;Allapure (Botany Dep, Mahatma Gandhi Mahavidyalaya, Ahmedpur-413 515, Email: rmk76@rediffmail.com) : Genus dothideovalsa speg from India. J Nat Conserv 2008, 20(2), 341-2.

The genus Dothideovalsa speg. recorded on Lantana camara L. from Ramling forest Yedsi, Dist. Osmanabad (M.S.). On the basis of morphological characters, the present collection has been described as new to science. Also it constitutes first generic record from India.

4 illus, 8 ref

002255   Jha K M;Sharma N D (NO, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur-482 004) : Factors affecting Rhizoctonia bataticols VIII. fungal culture filtrate. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 185-93.

The culture filtrates of fourteen fungi namely, Altemaria alternata (Fr.) Kriessler, Curvularia pallescens Boedijn, Drechslera specifera (Bainier) Boedijn, Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht from gram, Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht from barnyard millet, Aspergillus nidulans (Eidam) Winter, Penicillium sp., Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn, Sporotrichum sp. and five Trichoderma viride strains (Tv-1, Tv-2, Tv-3, Tv-4 and TV-5) were screened in vitro against isolates of Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn, Sporotrichum sp. and five Trichoderma viride strains (Tv-1, Tv-2, Tv-3, Tv-4 and Tv-5) were screened in vitro against isolates of Rhizoctonia bataticola (Rb 1, Rb 2, Rb 3, Rb 4, Rb 5, Rb 6 and Rb 7). The culture filtrates of all the fungi significantly inhibited the mycelial growth except of A. alternata, Sporotrichum sp.. Tv-4, Tv-2 and Tv-3 strains of T. viride. Sclerotia with variously reduced size, poorly produced and coalesced were observed in affected isolates.

6 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

002254   Jha K M;Sharma N D (Plant Pathology Dep, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur-482 004) : Factors affecting Rhizoctonia bataticola. VLL. plant extract. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 41-5.

Aqueous autoclaved leaf extracts of eighty three plant species were screened in vitro for their fungicidal activity against isolates of Rhizoctonia bataticola. Paper disc diffusion assay technique revealed that only a few plant extracts viz., Rannunculus scleratus, Xanthium strumarium, Ipomoea carnea, Ocimurn basilicum and Eclipta alba showed varied antifungal activities. The extract of R. scleretus was highly effective in inhibiting both the mycelial growth and sclerotia. In poisoned food technique only, growth inhibition at 30% concentration of 0. basilicum was observed among X. strumarium, O. basilicum and L. carnea, although all the three extracts had their effects on sclerotia.

2 tables, 6 ref

002253   Jana T K;Das A K;Ghosh S N (Mycology and Plant Pathology Research Laboratory, Post Graduate Dep of Botany, Presidency College, Kolkata-700 073) : Four folicolous hyphomycetes from Nagaland. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 101-3.

Four foliicolous hyphomycetous fungi viz. Cercospora adinae. T. S & K. Ramakrishnan, C. argyreiae Gobindu & Tnirumalachar C. cocciniae Munjal, Lall & Chona and C. wrightiae Thirumalachar & Chupp were collected from Nagaland. These are described and illustrated in this paper. These are reported for the first time from Nagaland.

4 illus, 17 ref

002252   Jamadar A M;Salunkhe C B (Post Graduate Dep of Botany, Krishna Mahavidyalaya, Shivnagar, Rethare-415 108) : Grasses of Sagareshwar wildlife sanctuary of Maharashtra state. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(4), 317-19.

1 ref

002251   Jain S C;Singh R;Jain R (Medicinal Plants and Biotechnology Research Laboratory, Botany Dep, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004, Email: jainnatpro3@rediffmail.com) : Biopotentialities of Verbesina encelioides cell cultures. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(3), 224-30.

Verbesina encelioides (Cav.) Benth. & Hook, fil ex Gray is regarded as ornamental garden plant and there are many reports of its use in folk medicine as analgesic, emetic, febrifuge, insecticide and anti-inflammatory. It is even used to treat cancer, gastrointestinal disturbance, skin ailments, and snake bite. The aim of present investigation is to evaluate the biosynthetic and bioefficacy potentials of the cell cultures of V. encelioides. For this purpose, cell cultures were established from seeds on MS basal medium in the absence or presence of IAA, NAA, Kn and BAP singly or in various combinations. Initiation of callus was observed after 20 days of inoculation and callus was successfully established on MS medium supplemented with 10 mg/L NAA and 0.4 mg/L Kn. The callus was whitish brown in colour and friable in nature. Various compounds viz. friedelin, epifriedelin, lupeol, α-, β- amyrin, stigmasterol, betulin and β-sitosterol have been isolated and identified using spectral studies. Different bioefficacies like antibacterial, antifungal followed by disc diffusion method and antioxidant using 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) were studied and compared with in vivo system.

5 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

002250   Iyer D;Uma Devi P;Pathak A K (Shri Ram Institute of Technology, Near I.T.I., Madhotal, Jabalpur-482 002, Email: deepa2183@yahoo.com) : Role of Piper betel (L.) leaf in the inhibition of In vitro generated hydroxyl radicals by fenton reaction. J pharm Res 2008, 7(3), 199-200.

The Piper betel (L) leaf extract has shown good in vitro free radical scavenging activity. The free radicals were generated with the help of Fenton reaction. The Fenton reaction was used to generate hydroxyl radicals in a test system and the free radical scavenging activity was determined by the degradation of deoxyribose. Fe⁺⁺⁺ - ascorbate - EDTA - H₂O₂ system produces hydroxyl radicals which react with deoxyribose and set off a series of reactions that result in the generation of Thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TEARS). The measurement of Thiobarbituric acid, reactive substance thus gives an index of free radical activity. The drug extract showed significant inhibitory effect on generation of Thiobarbituric acid reactive substance.

^ssc1 table, 5 ref

002249   Harsh Deep;Lokendra;Yadav P K (Botany Dep, Agra College, Agra-22 002, Email: yadav.harshdeep@gmail.com) : Effect of varying acquisition and test feeds on the transmission of the chilli mottle virus by Aphis gossypii in Capsicum annuum L.. Ecotech 2009, 1(1), 19-20.

A virus disease showing symptoms like dark green mottling adjacent to main leaf veins, reduction in leaf area and distortion was characterized from chilli. The infected plants show very important symptoms in the cells which are specific host virus combination. In capsium annuwn L. virus transmitted by mechanical inoculation; transmitted by grafting, not transmitted by seeds and also transmitted by an insects (Aphids). Aphid species like Aphis gossypii, Aphis craccivora, Aphis spiraecola, Myzus persicae, Toxoptera citricidus, Hystemneura setarieae and Rhopalosiphum maidis transmitted the virus, Chilli mottle virus disease was readly transmitted by Aphis gossypii (Glove). It was observed that with the increase of acquisition and test feed time, the number of infected plants increased regularly. An acquisition feed of 30 minutes even after a test feed of 20 minutes gave only 25% infection while an acuisition feed of 60 minutes after a test feed of 20 minutes gave 50% infection. Further increase in test feed gave total infection which could be obtained after 60 minutes of acquisition feed followed by a test feed 60 minutes. The virus remained active with in the body to the vector upon 10 days, and indicating that it is of persistant type.

1 table, 8 ref

002248   Hait G N (Botany Dep, City College, Kolkatta-700 009) : Host sensitization by phytoalexin inducers : I. induction of resistance in barley seedling against Helminthosporium sativum by seed treatment with reducing agents. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 69-72.

Out of five reducing agents tested at 10^{-3 M to 10-5 M for seed treatment, chemicals at their effective concentration induced appreciable resistance in barley seedling to Helminthosporium sativum and caused 30 to 70 per cent reduction in disease incidence when inoculated at the age of 3 weeks. Stronger effects were recorded with thioglycollic acid, cysteine and cysteine-HCL at 10-3 M concentration. All the chemicals at their effective concentration reduced the number of lesions and some of them inhibited lesion expansion also. The effect of treatment also persisted at a decline mode when the seedlings were inoculated at the age of 38 days. In vitro toxicity of the chemicals did not seem to be related with the induction of resistance.}

4 tables, 17 ref

002247   Gupta S M;Srivastava S;Gupta S;Ahmed Z (Plant Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering Lab, Defence Agricultural Research Laboratory, DROD, Goraparao, PO-Arjunpur, Haldwani-(UK)-263139, Email: smg555@rediffmail.com) : Genetic manipulation of fruit ripening : using antisense mRNA strategies. J appl Biosci 2008, 34(2), 115-23.

Fruit ripening is a highly coordinated and complex developmental process brought about through differential expression of hundreds of genes that can be utilized for genetic manipulation by using their antisense-oligonucleotides (AS-ONs). Different antisense mRNA strategies are available to inhibit the expression of a target gene in a sequence-specific manner, and may be used for functional genomics. The review is concerned with the basic concepts and practical uses of these technologies for improving fruit quality and shelf life.

^iia2 illus, 1 table, 83 ref

002246   Gupta D (Botany Dep, Raja N.L. Khan Women's College, Gope Place, Medinipur-721 102) : Survey of VAM association in common crops grown in the red lateritic soil of West Bengal. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 251-4.

A survey was conducted on regular crops grown in the area season wise. Collection of rhizospheric soil and roots were made from the crops like jute (Corchorus olitorius), groundnut (Arachis hypogaea), ladies finger (Abelmoschus esculentus) and sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) during summer ; paddy (Oryza sativa) and maize (Zea mays) during wet season and wheat (Triticum aestivum), mustard (Brassica campestris), tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) during winter. Depth considered was 0 to 25 cm. The rhizospheric soils were collected for VAMF spore count (wet sieve and decantation method) before sowing and at 15 days after sowing (d.a.s.) 45 d.a.s. and 75 d.a.s. Roots were collected at 7, 15, 30, 45, 60 and 75 d.a.s. for per cent infection study (root clearing and staining method). The crops varied as regard the extent of VAM infection and also initiation of VAM colonization. The initial spore population in the rhizosphere of the summer crops was higher (averaging 62.5 per 100 g. soil) than that of the wet season or winter crops (averaging 42.4 per 100 g. of soil). In general the spore count decreased in the initial stages of plant growth and increased as the crops attained maturity. Highest spore count was observed in the rhizosphere of T. aestivum (84 per 100 g soil) and the least in B. campestris (12 per 100 g soil) at the end of the crop growing period. 2 mays and T. aestivum were colonized as early as 7 d.a.s. ; the others except B. campestris at 125 d.a.s. Maximum colonization was observed in Z mays (45%) and the least in B. campestris (4%) at 75 d.a.s. The decreasing order of spore count in different crop rhizosphere (at 75 d.a.s.) was T. aestivum > Z. mays > L esculentum > I. batatas > C. olitorius > O. sativa > Abelmoscus esculentus > Arachis hypogaea > B. campestris. The decreasing order of VAM per cent colonization in different crops at 75 d.a.s. was Z. mays > T. aestivum > I. batatas > Abelmoschus esculentus > C. olitorius > Arachis hypogaea > L. esculentum > O. sativa > B. campestis.

1 table, 20 ref

002245   Guharoy S (Post Graduate of Dep of Botany, Ramananda College, Bankura722 122, Email: sanjoy.guharoy@gmail.com) : Progress in research on Phytophthora : identification, species diversity and population diversity. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 163-83.

Discusses the various recent molecular methods used in the Phytophthora species, their limitations and the current revised picture of species diversity emerging worldwide as a result of the use of these techniques. The phenotypic and genotypic diversity of these phytopathiggen worldwide have been inferred with the use of both molecular and morphological markers.

269 ref

002244   Gholamian F;Gholamian F (NO, Research Centre of Natural Resource and Agriculture of Bushehr Provinc, Bushehr, Iran, Email: shirazfgh@yahoo.com) : Effects of HMX and TNT contaminations on biochemical constituents in Triticum sativum L. and Raphanus sativus L. plants. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(3), 211-16.

Dose-response experiments formed the basis for evaluating the toxic effects using 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and hexahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-l,3,5,7-tetrazine (HMX) spiked artificial soils. These stresses to Raphanus sativus L. resulted in a reduction in chlorophyll, increase in carotenoid and xanthophylls, reduction in leaf, tuber and root protein, a significant accumulation of free proline in leaves and tuber. HMX decreased proline in root and TNT increased it. HMX stress to Triticum sativum L. resulted in an increase in chlorophyll, decrease in carotenoid and xanthophylls, reduction in leaf protein, and increase in tuber and root protein, a reduction in leaf proline, increase in root proline. TNT resulted an increase in leaf and root proline but there are curved behavior to accumulation of free proline in ear. The magnitude of increase in free proline accumulation was higher in the more tolerant plant. Results indicate Triticum sativum L. is more tolerant to TNT and HMX than Raphanus sativus L.

5 illus, 32 ref

002243   Geeta;Dutta A (Botany Dep, Jamshedpur Women's College, Jamshedpur-831 001) : Germination of seeds of Lens under the influence of cow's urine (Gomutra). J Nat Conserv 2008, 20(2), 189-99.

Present studies were carried out to observe the impact of various concentrations of cow's urine (Gomutra), viz 1% to 10% and 15%,20% and 25% in comparison to control on seed gennination of Lens. In lower concentration, Gomutra had growth promoting effect. At higher concentration of Gomutra delay in germination of seeds was noted. As the concentration was further increased, germination was totally inhibited. In diluted urine, germination of Lens was significantly better than control. Germination percentage decreased from lower to higher concentration of urine. Seed coat colour changed from brown to blackish brown at higher concentration of urine. Seed coat became hard & rough.

24 illus, 3 table, 20 ref

002242   Gayen S;Ghosh U (Food Technology and Bio Chemical Engg Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032, Email: Ughoshftbe@yahoo.co.in) : Utilization of agricultural westes for production of pectinmethylesterase. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 245-9.

Utilization of agricultural wastes is important not only to reduce the cost of production, but also to provide useful economic products to solve disposal problem as well as to minimize the environmental pollution hazards. The production of pectinmethylesterase by filamentous fungi were made by utilizing agricultural wastes. Studies were made to optimize fermentation conditions to improve yield of enzyme. Pectinase enzyme production was carried out by wheat bran alone and in combination with orange peel under SSF condition. The maximum production of pectinmethylesterase was obtained at 30°C, for 120 hr fermentation under static condition using wheat bran and orange peel in the ratio of (1:1 w/w) with hydration (1:1 w/v) using Penicillium notatum.

6 illus, 14 ref

002241   Dutta U K;Bhattacharya P M (Plant Pathology Dep, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Coochbehar, West Bangal-736 165) : Mycorrhizal association in mungbean (Vigna radiata) and its impact on disease resistance. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 65-8.

The pulse crops mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek], commonly known as green gram, has been cultivated in India since time immemorial ift almost all the states and occupies about 3.08 mha with an annual production of 1.31 mt and productivity of 4.25 q/ ha. In India this crop is grown all around the year in three crop seasons ; Pre-kharif, Kharif and Post-kharif and is known for high rhizosphere microbial activity. A set of 27 mungbean germplasms were screened for their mycorrhizal association under Terai agro-climatic region of West Bengal and an attempt was taken to relate their ability to form mycorrhiza with biochemical parameters and disease incidence. The genotypes were divided into four different mycorrhizal categories depending on their per cent root length infection. Phenolic concentration was found lower in plants with high mycorrhizal association, whereas peroxidase activity and protein level were found to be higher in the same plants at an early stage. Per cent disease index (PDI) for Cercospora-leaf spot was correlated with different parameters and it was found that degree of mycorrhizal association was inversely related with PDI in all the resistance categories of the genotypes studied. Phenolics in plants with high mycorrhizal association imparting high level of resistance was found lower than that in plants with lower mycorrhizal association having moderate resistance indicating a different mechanism of resistance in mycorrhizal plants. However, protein concentration increased with mycorrhizal infection and was found to be higher in plants with lower PDI.

4 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

002240   Dutta S;Roy M;Roy S (Plant Pathology Dep, AICRP on Vegetable Crops, Directorate of Research, Bidhan Chandra Kri, Kalyani-741 235, Email: subrata_mithu@yahoo.co.in ) : Effect of some locally available substrates on mass production of native Trichoderma spp.. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 263-6.

Biological control of plant disease is gaining momentum in recent years and assumes special significance in being eco-friendly cost effective strategy, which can be used in integration with other disease management systems to afford greater levels of protection and sustain crop yield. Trichoderma spp. is one of the most promising fungal bio-control agents and has created a new milestone in non-chemical disease management system and organic agriculture in particular. Variations in the bio-control potentiality of antagonistic mycoflora are bound to occur in different agro-climatic regions. Thus, in The investigation emphasis was given for isolation and regional evaluation of native Trichoderma isolates along with their mass multiplication in locally available substrates. Tri Pun2 followed by Tri Pun inhibited maximum mean growth of soil-borne plant pathogens during dual culture method. In mass multiplication experiment, paddy grain and paddy husk was found to be the best locally available substrate for mass multiplication of native Tri Pun2 isolate. 81% spore viability was observed after 137 days at normal temperature in paddy grain substrate.

5 tables, 9 ref

002239   Dubey A;Mishra M K;Singh P K;Deepak Vyas (Laboratory Microbial Technology and Plant Pathology, Botany Dep, Dr. H.S. Gour Univ, Sagar-470 003, Email: dvyas64@yahoo.co.in) : Occurrence of AM fungi at varying stages of growth of growth of rice plants. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(PtI), 51-5.

Occurrence of AM fungi on rice plants at varying stages of growth was observed. At the seedling stage (40 DAS) 15 AMF species, 60% root colonization and arbuscules in good amount were observed. But at maturation stage (80 DAS) when plants were submerged in water, not only species of AMF reduced but also per cent of root colonization decreased and no arbuscules were seen. At harvesting stage (120 DAS), AM fungal species and percent root colonization increased. Vesicles were formed at this stage. 22 AMF species were recorded, and 8 AMF species were found common at all stages. Species of Gigaspora were found at seedling stage and 8 AMF were recorded only at harvesting stage. From the result it can be deduced that Glomus species was dominant in rhizosphere of rice plants followed by Acualospora, Gigaspora and Scutellospora which were poorly distributed.

1 table, 34 ref

002238   Dhawan R S;Singh R;Dhawan A K;Dhindsa J P S (Agronomy Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: rupadhawan@hotmail.com) : Isoproturon induced changes in peroxidase and catalase enzymes in susceptible and resistant biotypes of Phalaris minor RETZ.. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(3), 217-23.

Peroxidase and catalase activity was studied in isoproturon susceptible and resistant populations of F.minor with a view to observe differences in innate capacity of different populations under herbicide stress. Resistant populations differed from susceptible populations in exhibiting higher acitivity of these enzymes at the seedling stage. Isoproturon spray caused increase in peroxidase acivity in the susceptible biotypes 5 days after spray. Catalase activity remained low in the sprayed susceptible biotypes. Unsprayed susceptible and resistant biotypes did not differ in isoenzyme pattern of these enzymes. Sprayed resistant plants differ from sprayed susceptible plants in continued presence of isoperoxidases at Rfs 0.32 and 0.36 at 5 days of sampling and at Rfs 0.28, 0.30 and 0.58 at 10 days of sampling.

4 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

002237   Dhangrah V K;Mandal J;Pramanik K (Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Srinketan-731 236) : Chlorophyll content in vegetable amaranth. J Asian Hort 2007, 3(3-4), 284-7.

2 tables, 16 ref

002236   Debnath M;Srivastava R C (Plant Physiology and Biochemistry Research Laboratory, Botany Dep, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar-799 130, Email: rcsrivastavatu@yahoo.co.in) : Phytotoxicity of sodium arsenate in relation to nodulation, nitrogenase activity and total nitrogen in root nodules of Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek. J appl Biosci 2008, 34(2), 194-8.

Foliar spray of different concentrations (viz., 0,1, 5 and 10 μM) of sodium arsenate on 15-days-old green-gram [Vigna radiata (L.)Wilczek] plant caused in vivo inhibition/reduction in nitrogenase activity, total nitrogen in detached root nodules and the nodulation parameters, such as, nodule number and its fresh and dry weight per plant. Its 1 μM exposure significantly inhibited the nodulation after parameters 7, 14 and 21 days of foliar spray.

4 tables, 23 ref

002235   Deb S B (NO, , 215, Nagendra Nath Road) : forest notes and observations coppicing in Acacia auriculiformis plants. Indian For 2008, 134(11), 1548-51.

3 illus

002234   De A B (Botny Dep, Burdwan Raj College, Burdwan-713 104) : Genus Hymenochaete lev. in West Bengal. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 1-11.

Uptil 2005 six species of Hymenochaete Lev. were recorded from West Bengal. These are : Hymenochaete cacao (Berk.) Berk., Hymenochaete rheicolor (Mont.) Lev., Hymenochaete rubiginosa (Dicks. : Fr.) Lev., Hymenochaete sphaericola L. loyd, Hymenochaete tabacina (Sow. Fr.) Lev. and Hymenochaete villosa (Lev.) Bres. Of them H. sphaericola and H. tabacina were found to grow only at higher altitudes (Darjeeling and Kalimpong) but the others were collected from higher altitudes as well as from the plains. All of these species caused white rot. Morphological, anatomical and cultural characters of these species along with the results of oxidase tests were studied. All of these species were found to give positive results in oxidase tests. A key to the identification of these species occurring in West Bengal was presented.

7 illus, 7 ref

002233   Das A B;Samal S;Mallick L;Behera B;Mohanty P (Cytogenetics Laboratory, , Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar-751 015, Email: a_b_das@hotmail.com) : Short-term effect of high amount of NaCl to hydroponically maintained true tree mangrove Bruguiera gymnorrhiza: changes in photosynhetic pigments, proteins, metabolic components and anatomical features in roots and stems. J Pl Biol 2008, 35(2), 99-106.

Response to short-term exposure of high (500 mM) NaCl stress was studied on selected physiological and anatomical features in hydroponically grown Bruguiera gymnorrhiza - a true tree mangrove. Changes due to high salt shock in chlorophyll and carotenoid contents, total soluble sugar, polyphenol, leaf and root protein profiles were monitored. An upper tolerance limit found for B. gymnorrhiza plants was 500 mM of NaCI in which plant can be kept for 7 days. A short 7-day high salt exposure to B. gymnorrhiza caused minor but perceptible anatomical perturbations in root and stem transverse sections as viewed microscopically. Analysis of photosynthetic pigments suggested loss of chlorophyll content, changes of carotene and proteins with increasing duration of salt exposure. Total chlorophyll content and soluble leaf and root protein decreased upon exposure to NaCI, whereas carbohydrate and polyphenol content increased significantly. Protein content of both roots and leaves decreased by ~ 60% during salt exposure and recovered significantly (~ 40%) upon return to non-saline condition for 7 days. Protein profile analysis exhibited changes in intensity of protein bands possibly due to NaCI induced oxidative stress. Polyphenols increased by salt exposure but continued to increase even after transfer to normal condition. Polyphenols seemed to play a key role in the plant's defense mechanism against stress.

3 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

002232   Dambal R;Doddabasawa;Hulamani N C (Horticulture Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Dharwad-580 005) : Effect of age of rootstocks on graft take in softwood grafting of sapota [Manilkara achras (Mill.) Fosberg]. J Asian Hort 2007, 3(3-4), 288-9.

1 table, 5 ref

002231   Dalvi S;Rakh R R;Bodke S S (Botany and Microbiology Dep, S G B College, Purna (Jn), Maharashtra) : Ethnomedicinal studies of some rare plants used in local unani system of Nanded district. J Nat Conserv 2008, 20(2), 365-8.

Present paper deals with morphotaxonomic studies of medicinal plants used by local Hakims of Nanded District. Morphotaxonomic description and medicinal uses of plant species viz. Anisomelous indica (L.) O. Ketz (L.), Bombax ceiba L., Capparis zeylanica L., Cardiospermum helicacabum L., Ficus hispida L., Mucuna pruriens (L.) D C and Santalum album L., are discussed here. Many Hakims practice the Unani system of medicines. Information regarding medicinal plant is collected through observations and discussions with the Hakims. The information would be helpful to review the Unani folk medicine, which is losing its charm in modern world.

12 ref

002230   Dajic Stevanovic Z P;Nastovski T L;Ristic M S;Radanovic D S (NO, Faculty of Agriculture, Belgrade, Nemanjina 6, 11080, Belgrade, Serbia) : Variability of essential oil composition of cultivated feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium (L.) Schultz Bip.) populations. J essential Oil Res 2009, 21(4), 292-4.

The differences in essential oil composition, based upon GC and GC/MS analysis, were studied in four cultivated populations of Feverfew (Tanacetum purtheniurn (L.) Schulz Bip.). The yield of oil ranged from 0.23% to 0.36%; the major components were camphor (46.4-47.2%), trans-chrysanthenyl acetate (22.4-27.3%) and camphene (10,9-12.7%). Statistically significant differences among tested populations were mostly related to the content of trans-chrysanthenyl acetate and borneol.

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002229   Chowdhury A K;Mukherjee S;Bandyopadhyay S;Das J;Mondal N C (Plant Pathology Dep, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Coochbehar-736 165) : Resistance to helminthosporium leaf blight and biochemical responses of wheat genotypes of diverse origins. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 59-63.

Helminthosporium leaf blight (HLB) is one of the most serious disease constraints to wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in the Gangetic plains of India, particularly in rice-wheat system. The disease occurs as a complex of spot blotch (Bipolaris sorokiniana), leaf blight (Altemaria triticina), zonate eye spot (Drechslera gigantea) and tan spot (Pyrenophora tritici-repentis); of which spot blotch causes significant yield losses. Yield losses up to 43% were recorded in the terai zone of West Bengal. The relative dominance of B. sorokiniana, A. triticina and D. gigantea was studied at different growth stages of wheat. It was observed that Altemaria was dominant pathogen in the early growth stages whereas Bipolaris and Drechslera appered after flag leaf sheath opening stage of wheat and caused significant yield losses. A field study was conducted using 300 genotypes of Indian and CIMMYT origin during 2003-04 and 2004-05 crop seasons for their resistance to HLB disease. The biochemical parameters associated with disease resistance i.e., phenolics, proteins, polyphenoloxidase and peroxidase activities were measured in two resistant wheat genotypes (Nepal 1 and RWP 40) and two susceptible cultivars (Sonalika and HUW 234). The resistant genotypes always had higher levels of phenol and OD-phenol and enhanced PRO and PO enzyme activities than the susceptible genotypes, Due to complexity of the disease, a holistic approach, using varietal resistance, induced resistance by plant growth promoting rhizobacteria, bio-control agents and chemical control, was attempted. An Integrated Disease Management (IDM) had been formulated for the terai zone of West Bengal.

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002228   Chinara N;Das S N;Mishra B D;Sahoo S (NO, Regional Research Laboratory, Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa) : Efficacy of some plants and animal byproducts against some fungal plant pathogens. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 287-8.

Among four test compounds prepared from different plant and animal products, aqueous solution of Neem oil, Pungam oil, Amla oil and Mustard oil in sodium layryl sulphate (TC₁₁) could significantly inhibit the growth of Fusarium solani, Rhizoctonia solani, Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotium rolfsii.

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002227   Chhetry G K N;Maniton E (Life Sciences Dep, Manipur Univ, Canchipur-795 003) : Spatial dispersion statistics and sequential sampling plan for frog eye leaf spot disease caused by Cercospora capsici in chilli. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 105-7.

Iwao's patchiness regression technique was used to study the spatial distribution of Cercospora capsici infecting chilli leaves in its five growth stages viz., nursery, vegetative, flowering, podding and fruit ripening stages. The dispersion statistics indicated that the basic components of the disease lesion population aggregates and they were contagiously distributed in chilli leaves at all growth stages. Botanical extracts spray did not alter the basic distribution pattern of disease. The dispersion statistics obtained from pooled data enabled to arrive at sequential sampling plan that requires a maximum of 58 leaves sample for assessing the threshold level of diseases in order to initiate control measures. A preliminary economic threshold of one lesion per leaf was used to prepare the sequential sampling plan for timing the initiation of plant extract to control the disease. It is a cost effective ecofriendly quantitative method in plant disease management.

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002226   Chavan S Y;Waghire H B;Bhuktar A S;Sardesai M M (NO, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad-431 004) : Further additions to the flora of Marathwada. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(4), 311-13.

Deals with addition of five taxa of flowering plants to the flora of Marathwada, Updated nomenclature, name of the family, locality and description are given for each species.

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002225   Chauhan S;Sharma S B;Chauhan S V S (Botany Dep, School of Life Sciences, Dr.B.R. Ambedkar Univ, Agra-282 002, Email: svs250@rediffmail.com) : Reproductive biology of Parkinsonia aculeata L. (Caesalpinaceae). Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(PtI), 45-50.

Parkinsonia aculeata L. (Caesalpinaceae), a small xerophytic tree species, flowers twice a year, during March-April and August-September with profuse flowering in the former period. The flowers, arranged in lax axillary racemes are yellow, hermaphrodite, hypogynous, zygomorphic and complete. They open daily during 5.00-6.30 am followed by anther dehiscence at 6.00-7.30 am. There are 10 stamens (4 long, 4 medium and 2 small staminodes) and each flower produces 65040 ±1201 pollen grains. Temperature and relative humidity have direct effect on pollen viability, which is low during March-April and high during August-September. The flowers offer both pollen and nectar for the visitors, which include honeybees, butterflies, wasps and ants. Fruiting in this species is through autogamy, geitonogamy and xenogamy, however, it has predominantly facultative xenogamous breeding system. This system helps it to be adaptive for colonization.

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002224   Chauhan S;Sharma S B;Chauhan S V S (Botany Dep, School of Life Sciences, Dr B R Ambedkar University, Agra (Uttar Pradesh)) : Reproductive biology of Terminalia Arjuna (Roxb.) Wt. & Arn. Indian For 2008, 134(11), 1468-78.

Terminalia arjuna, a valuable medicinal tree. The bark of the tree is not only used to lower blood pressure but is extremely useful in cardio-vascular diseases. It, flowers during April-July. The flowers are hermaphrodite, actinormorphic, and epigynous and each has one whorl of gamotepalous perianth. They are borne on pendulous terminal and axillary spikes. Flowers open daily during 0500-0630 h and offer both pollen and nectar as floral rewards. Foragers include honeybees, butterflies, wasps, flies, ants and sunbirds. The fruiting behaviour indicates that this species shows facultative xenogamy, but mostly eliminates growing fruits from self-pollinated flowers. The facultative breeding system is considered to be adaptive for orjuna for colonization as it facilitates fruit-set through self-pollination. Natural fruit-set 48%. The winged and woody fruits are dispersed by wind and birds.

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002223   Chatterjee J (NO, , ) : Zinc stress distnibuted the physiology the french beam. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(3), 320-4.

002222   Chakraborty T K;Chaudhuri S D (Botany Dep, Balurghat college, P.O. Balurghat, Distt Dakshin Dinajpur (West Bengal)) : Occurrence of vivipary in papaya plant (Carica papayal L). Indian For 2008, 134(11), 1543-4.

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002221   Bose B;Sweta Kumari;Anaytullah;Srivastava A K;Kuril S K;Singh P K (Plant Physiology Dep, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: bandana_bose2000@yahoo.com) : Effect of mercuric chloride on seed germination seedling growth and enzyme activities in maize (Zea Mays L.). Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(3), 284-90.

Phytotoxic effect of mercuric chloride on seed germination and seedling growth of maize (var. Jaunpuri) was studied by seed soaking treatment with different concentrations of mercuric chloride (0 to 3.0 mM). Different physico-chemical parameters were studied, viz., seed germination, length of plumule and radicle, absolute water uptake (AWU%), relative water uptake (RWU%), amylase activity (endosperm) and proline content (seedling). Increase in concentration of mercuric chloride from 0.5 to 3.0 mM decreased seed germination significantly when compared with control. Similar trend was noticed in other parameters like radicle and plumule length, AWC%, RWU% and amylase activity. However, seedling proline content increased with increase in HgCl₂ concentration. In another experiment seed treatment for 48 h with mercuric chloride (0.5 to I mM), inhibited the no. of leaves, root length, shoot length, no. of adventitious root, leaf area, fresh weight of roots and shoot, chlorophyll and nitrogen contents and nitrate reductase activity while superoxide dismutase activity as well as membrane injury enhanced in 8 and 12 days old seedlings, respectively. However, values of no. of leaves, root length, shoot length and fresh weight of roots were not significant. Similarly, maize leaves collected from 12 days old control seedling when floated over mercuric chloride solution (0.5 to 1 mM) for 24 h a constant decline was noted in nitrate reductase activity whereas accelerations were recorded in superoxide dismutase activity and membrane injury. The finding suggested that the mercury has direct impact on membrane structure of the tissue and on the enzymatic activity of the plant system.

2 illus, 4 tables, 30 ref

002220   Bhar J;Kanp U K;Bhattacharjee A;De U K;Saha P K (School of Environmental Studies, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032, Email: alokebc@yahoo.co.in) : Influence of sodium dikegulac on growth, metabolism and yield of safed musli. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(4), 400-4.

Foliar application of a plant growth retardant sodium dikegulac (NaDK) at 100, 200 and 300 ug ml^{-1 on 16-days-old safed musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum Sant. et Fernand.) enhanced potential status of the plants. This was measured in terms of shoot length, leaf length, leaf width, total number of leaves and leaf area per plant at 3 different stages (30, 60 and 90 days) of plant growth. NaDK deferred senescence of the contributory leaves as evidenced from the chemical-induced alleviation of the loss of chlorophyll, protein, DNA and RNA contents as well as catalase activity in leaves. NaDK also averted the deleterious effect of the increase of amylase activity and significantly extended the days to maturity of plants. These changes were associated with enhancement of length and thickness of fleshy roots, as well as total number and yield of tuberous roots per plant. NaDK 200 μg ml-1 exerted the best response for coveted modulation of growth, metabolism and crop yield. The importance of NaDK as promising chemical for manipulation of growth and productivity of safed musli is discussed.}

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002219   Basu S;Basu M (Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Biological control of Parthenium hysterophorus by insect. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 53-7.

Study is concerned to know the extent of damage caused to the weed by the insect at the different growth stages. The insects were introduced to the pot plants at healthy vegetative stages when the plants were 4 cm in height with an average of 5 leaves. After one month, it was detected that the maximum impact was on the leaves which were devoured completely by insect expect the mid rib. Also the plant height, shoot length and plant biomass were affected i.e. 65,11%, 56.18% and 71.63% as compared to control ones. The impact on root length, and stem diameter were not significant. Another interesting point was that the plants did not reach the flowering stage. Therefore, it is concluded that the present insect opens a new dimension for the control of this dangerous weed.

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002218   Banerjee S N;Roy K;Ray S;Ray M (Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science Dep, Tennessee Univ, Knoxville, Tennessee-37996-4531, USA, Email: bcmr@mahendra.iacs.res.in) : Retardation of senescence of detached leaves by methylglyoxal. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(3), 300-6.

Effect of methylglyoxal on detached leaf senescence of six plant species, viz. carrot, solanum, papaya, basil, ribbed gourd and rice was investigated. When the detached leaves were kept for a fixed time period, the methylglyoxal treated leaves could significantly arrest senescence in all the plant species tested, which was evident by the retention of structural integrity as well as of chlorophyll and protein contents. However, pyruvate had a very mild effect though it has structural similarity with methylglyoxal. Comparis6n of activity profiles of peroxidase, glyoxalase I and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in freshly excised, senesced and methylglyoxal treated leaves showed that the enzyme activities of methylglyoxal treated leaves closely resembled that of the freshly excised leaves.

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002217   Azooz M M (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science, King Faisal Univ, P.O. Box 280, Al-Hassa 31982, Saudi Arabia, Email: azzozm@yahoo.com) : Ameliorating effects of exogenously applied ascorbic acid on seawater irrigation - induced oxidation stress in Roselle seedlings. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(4), 325-33.

Objective of this work was to evaluate the ameliorating effects of ascorbic acid (AsA) to stress imposed by seawater irrigation on roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L. with red sepals variety) seedlings. Irrigation of seedlings with seawater caused a reduction of growth and water content. On the other hand, ion leakage, lipid peroxidation, activities of some antioxidant enzymes, endogenous AsA, total free amino acids and proline were enhanced. Exogenously application of 200 ppm AsA through seeds presoaking ameliorating the inhibitory effects of seawater stress, which were accompanied by increase of soluble carbohydrates and proteins and antioxidant enzymes. However, seawater stress induced accumulation of proline, total free amino acids, ion leakage and lipid peroxidation was lesser in ASA treated as compared with AsA untreated seedlings. The results suggested that, application of AsA may help in improving the tolerance of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. seedlings to seawater stress by neutralizing the excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS).

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002216   Awaley M G (Botany Dep, Govt. Institute of Science, Aurangabad-431 001) : Effect of weedicides on pollen mother cells of Ocimum basilicum Linn.. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(4), 314-16.

Ocimum basilicum L. were sprayed with different concentrations of aqueous solution of weedicides i.e. 2, 4-D (2,4-Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid), Roundup (Isopropylamine salt of glyphosate) and Butachlor (N-butoxymethyl-a-chloro-2' 6' - diethylacetanilide), at flowering stage. All weedicides induced abnormalities in pollen mother cells of flower bud in the form of precocious movement of chromosomes at metaphase and anaphase, grouping, binucleate cells, trinucleate cells, multinucleate cells and sticky metaphase. More number of aberrant cells were recorded with Roundup.

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002215   Atluri J B;Ramana S P V;Subba Reddi C (Botany Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Eventide blooming, insect pollination, low fruiting and seeding in the strychnine tree, Strychnos nux-vomica Linn.. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(PtI), 66-71.

Natural populations of Strychnos nux-vomica Linn. in Eastern Ghats region produce heavy bloom during February - April. The flowers open in the evening hours during 1500h- 2000h, with a peak at 1600h - 1800 h. A syrphid fly Sphaerophoria Indiana and three bee species Xylocopa latipes (juveniles), Apis cerana indica and Trigona iridipennis are the pollinators. S. nux-vomica seems to have adapted a mixed mating system with cryptic self-incompatibility. Fruits mature over a 10-11 month period and mature fruit set is very low i.e. 3.6%. There is heavy damage to flowers mostly by sooty mould Capnodium sp. and also by aphid infestation and egg-laying by syrphid fly. Only 3-4 seeds develop out of the 12-13 ovules in the ovary. The limited seediness of fruit might be of ecological advantage to S. nux-vomica since its fruit gets dispersed through water.

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002214   Akowuah G A;Mariam A;Chin J H (School of Pharmacy, Univ College Sedaya Internation, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Email: wuahmy@yahoo.com) : Effect of extraction temperature on total phenols and antioxidant activity of Gynura procumbens leaf. Pharmacog Mag 2008, 15(4), 81-5.

The effect of extraction temperature on total phenolic contents and free radical scavenging activity of Gynura procumbens leaf extract was investigated. The content of total phenolic were not significantly different (P <62 0.5) at the extraction temperature of 40 °C and 50 °c. However, decrease in total phenolic content was observed from extraction temperature of 60 °C and above. The extracts obtained at lower temperature exhibited significant free radical-scavenging activity compared to extraction at higher temperatures.

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001437   Ujjwal K;Singh A;Pandey D D (Botany Dep, Bokaro Steel City College, Bokaro, Jharkhand) : Effect of grazing on phytosociological studies of grasslands of Bokaro, Jharkhand. Modern J Life Sci 2007, 6-7(1-2), 35-42.

The study area was confined to Bokaro Steel City, Bokaro, Jharkhand to study the effect of grazing on phytosociological studies of grasslands. The total number of grassland species were recorded to be 8, 7 and 5 on protected and 21,14 and 9 on grazed grasslands in rainy, winter and summer seasons, respectively. Thero-hemicryptophytic life-form was comparatively higher on both types of grasslands. Biological spectrum of protected and grazed grasslands species were compared with that of Raunkiaer's normal spectrum and it was found that percentage of therophyte was higher on both grasslands than other life-form classes. The importance value index of Heteropogon contortus was recorded maximum as compared to other grassland species present on both types of grasslands in rainy, winter and summer seasons.

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001436   Sinha K R;Binod Kumar;Gupta A K;Vinod Prasad; Sinha A K (P.G. Centre of Botany, Gaya College, Gaya-823 001) : Medicinal values of weeds. Modern J Life Sci 2007, 6-7(1-2), 43-8.

Fifteen weeds from Chotanagpur region have been studied from medicinal point of view. It has been reported that all the weeds have tremendous medicinal value and the tribal people of that belt use them for the cure of various diseases. In this light, weeds should not always be treated as 'plants out of place' as said by earlier workers.

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