009088   Sanjappa M;Venu P;Albertson W D (Botanical Survey of India, , Kolkata-700 064) : Materials for developing databases in taxonomic research. Proc Indian Acad Sci 2008, 74(1), 27-38.

The essentiality of databases in taxonomic research and in taxonomists' perspective is emphasized. Specimens, illustrations and little known catalogues, besides consolidated floras are considered subjects for databases in taxonomic research. The present communication analyses the holdings in Indian herbaria, the problems that confront them and suggests ways for their greater exposition. It is felt that a consortium is to be evolved linking them to pool up the holdings and to facilitate greater accessibility of specimens. Images though not entirely substitute specimens, expedite in tracing specimens in specific herbaria, their prompt borrowing for study thereby taking appropriate taxonomic decisions and updating of nomenclature. This centralization accelerates revisionary studies and makes Indian taxonomists less dependent on European herbaria. Illustrations and less known catalogues, which too are crucially linked to literature, should find a place in databases. Images of live collections with names authenticated empower forestry personnel to collect locality specific information of various species in monitoring exercises. Problems associated with names and their inherent dynamism due to the flexibility given in the provisions of the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature in databases on consolidated floras of a state/ region are also addressed. The paper reviews the efforts put in by various institutions towards digitalization. It is suggested that the database on consolidated National Flora should be carefully phased initially building fully referenced species checklists for various families followed by appending additional data sets for value addition. This gives the needed stability to the developed database. Our approach should be gradual and graded and involving taxonomists as they are principle data generators. As the old databases are customized in configuration and utility and day by day the new ones getting added, this review cannot be claimed exhaustive. But it gives a broader perception with reference to the diverse resources on hand to be digitized and emphasizes how effective a database could be built upon. A thematic proposal is presented as a guideline with a submission for consideration/debate.

^iia1 illus, 43 ref

009087   Sahney M;Chaurasia S (Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad, Email: manjusahney@rediffmail.com) : Qualitative survey of airborne pollen grains at Allahabad during 2002-2004. Indian J Aerobiol 2008, 21(1), 1-12.

Aeropalynological survey was carried out at Allahabad for two consecutive years from December 2002 to November 2004 using aeroscope. Altogether 107 pollen morphotypes were identified. Pollen grains of Holoptelea integrifolia formed the major component of airborne pollen spectrum followed by Poaceae, Caryota urens, Pinus roxburghii, Ricinus communis, Ailanthus excelsa, Madhuca longifolia, Parthenium hysterophorus, Tinospora cordifolia, Amaranthaceae/Chenopodiaceae, Thuja occidentalis, Roystonea regia, Syzygium cumini, Toona ciliata and Azadirachta indica. February to May and September to November were recorded to be the two main pollen seasons. Seasonal and annual variations in the concentration of pollen grains have been studied and correlated with the meteorological parameters.

5 illus, 2 tables, 61 ref

009086   Sahay R;Parvataneni S;Barnes R;Aguirre F; Wozniak A;Singh A B;Gasana J (Environmental Diagnostics Laboratory, Pure Air Control Services, 4911-C Creek side Dr., Clearwater, FL 33760 USA, Email: rsahay@pureaircontrols.com) : Assessment of surficial mould in indoor environments. Indian J Aerobiol 2008, 21(1), 13-23.

Surficial samples were collected on Bio-Scan 400^TM for mold evaluation in buildings and homes. Bio-Scan 400^TM is a sample collection device for environmental surface sampling. Over six thousand five hundred Bio-Scan 400^TM samples were collected over a period of five years (2004-2008) from both residential and commercial facilities across the United States to find out the types and abundance of mold growing on indoor surfaces such as dry-wall, insulation liner, carpet and other building materials. This study establishes a reliable reference including numerical value in terms of counts/cm² for evaluating mold in a building. Findings suggest that numerically 50 counts/cm² should be adapted as a cutoff value for determining normal background mold levels in buildings; although mold population dynamics vary greatly with the nature and composition of the surface.

5 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

009085   Sabu T;AnilKumar C;Sham A;Salim N;Louis Jesudass L;Mohanan N;Krishnan P N (NO, Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute, Pacha-Palode, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala) : Seed maturity, germination and storage studies on an endemic tree - Humboldtia decurrens Bedd. ex Oliver. Indian For 2008, 134(2), 203-11.

Seed studies of an endemic and vulnerable tree species, Humboldtia decurrens from Southern Western Ghats, were conducted to develop methods for propagation and germplasm conservation. Influence of ecological factors in the development of seeds were experimentally studied and found that those seeds of lower altitudes usually excels. Recalcitrant nature of the seeds was revealed by sensitiveness of seeds to loss of 10% moisture content and to chilling temperatures of 10 °C. Reduction of initial moisture content from 42% to 30% and subsequent storage in closed polycarbonate bottles at controlled conditions (20°C/20% RH) could prolong the viability of the seeds up to 4 months compared to few weeks in natural conditions. Germination trials at nursery level indicated the preference of seeds to mist chamber where maximum germination percentage and germination index of 68 and 1.9 respectively, were registered.

3 tables, 13 ref

009084   Reddy N J M;Kadam R M (Aerobiology Research Center, Mahatma Gandhi Mahavidyalaya, Ahmedpur Dist. Latur, Maharashtra, Email: rmk76@rediffmail.com) : Atmospheric concentration of air borne ascospores at Ahmedpur. Indian J Aerobiol 2008, 21(1), 57-9.

The investigation deals with the incidence and atmospheric concentration of air borne ascospores, recorded from aerobiological experiments over Bajra a Kharif crop. Occurrence and variations of air borne ascospores at two different seasons, I (05/07/2005 to 09/10/2005) and II season (20/06/2006 to 22/09/2006) have been observed over Bajra crop. The investigation was carried out with the help of Tilak air sampler.' From the present investigation, it was evident that, the maximum concentration of ascospores (90440/m³ of air) were recorded during the rainy season. It also becomes very clear that, there is a close relation between rainfall and release of ascospores. which is evident from the lowest concentration of ascospores during dry weather conditions. The maximum numbers of ascospores were found more during the night hours than day hours. The meteorological data was maintained throughout the seasons of the crop to find out the corelation with airborne ascospores in the atmosphere.

^ssc1 table, 11 ref

009083   Rangaswamy B E (Biotechnology Dep, Bapuji Institute & Technology, Davangere, Email: swamyber@hotmail.com) : Occurrence of airborne fungal spores in honeys of Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka, India. Indian J Aerobiol 2008, 21(1), 24-7.

One hundred honey samples collected from erstwhile Dakshina Kannada were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively to analyze the pollen grains. Of these 10 samples were selected for studying fungal spores contained in them. Using a Lietz microscope with photomicrography attachment we could identify 14 different types of fungal spores, which included Alternaria, Cladosporium, Aspergillus and some Basidiospores. Perhaps the above mentioned airborne fungal spores find their way in honey samples either from air directly or through honeydew as contaminant.

2 tables, 22 ref

009082   Raja Sekhar Reddy A;Naidu C V (Botany Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh) : Callus induction and regeneration in Azadirachta Indica (A. Juss) In-vitro. Indian For 2008, 134(2), 226-32.

Azadirachta indica is a typical tropical/sub-tropical plant were used for micropropagation and generation of plantlets from callus cultures. Induction of somaclonal variability in the existing germplasm was another aim. Callus was initiated from young leaves on MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of BA (2 mg/1) and 2,4-D (0.5 mg/1). Organogenesis was achieved by transferring callus on MS medium supplemented with TDZ (3.0 mg/1) and adenine (1.0 mg/1) getting a very high frequency of shoot regeneration 81.3 per cent. Well-grown shoots rooted easily on MS-half supplemented with IBA +IAA (2.0+0.5 mg/1) and 80-90% rooting was achieved. Plantlets got hardened by keeping them in hardening unit for few days. Hardened plants established very well in the nursery. Though originated from callus, these plants did not show any morphological variations and were similar to their parent donar plant. Histological study revealed that regeneration took place through denovo merestemoid formation.

1 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

009081   Praveen Kumar Singh;Awadhesh Kumar Singh (Botany Dep, M.L.K.P.G. College, Balrampur-271 201) : Effect of temperature and soil texture on the survival ability of rice sheath blight pathogen (Rhizoctonia solani). Flora Fauna 2008, 14(1), 55-6.

There was corresponding reduction in the survivability of the fungus with an increase in the length of incubation period. An initial recovery of 100% at the beginning of the experiment in the sample incubated at 40°C was dropped down to 33.3% after five months.

2 tables, 8 ref

009080   Pawar B R;Pawar D B (Agricultural Economics Dep, Marathwada Agricultural Univ, Parbhani, Maharashtra) : Resource productivity, resource use efficiency and optimum resource allocation in jasmine flower production. Int J agric Sci 2008, 4(1), 1-4.

Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) is mostly cultivated on commercial scale in Nanded district of Maharashtra and it is popularly known as mogra. Investigation was carried out during the year 2004-05 to study resource productivity and resource use efficiency in jasmine flower production in the district. In all sixty mogra gardens were selected for the investigation. Cross sectional data were collected from sixty mogra growers by personal interview method with the help of pretested schedule. The results revealed that the value of R² was 0.861 which indicated 86.10 per cent of variation in mogra flower production due to variation in six explanatory variables in estimating Cobb-Douglas production function. If use of area of mogra garden, human labour, nitrogen, phosphorus and manure were increased by 1 per cent each, that will lead to increase in the mogra flower production by 0.313, 0.288, 0.022, 0.040 and 0.090 per cent, respectively. The existing size of mogra garden was 0.39 hectare while optimum size of it was found to be 0.73 hectare. When other resources remained constants, the optimum use of human labour, nitrogen, phosphorus and manure was 287.37 man days, 107.60 kg, 106.43 kg and 74.83 q, respectively. On the contrary, production elasticity of potash input was found to be positive but non-significant.

1 table, 7 ref

009079   Pavithra N;Paarakh P M (NO, The Oxford College of Pharmacy, Banglore-60078, Email: padmaparas@hotmail.com) : Screening of antibacterial activity of Thevetia neriifolia Juss. and Nerium odorum Soland. Biomed 2008, 2(4), 404-7.

Extracts of Thevetia neriifolia Juss. and Nerium odorum Soland were screened for their antibacterial activity in comparison with standard antibiotic Penicillin. The in-vitro antibacterial activity of petroleum ether, benzene, chloroform, metlianol and aqueous extracts of the plants were studied by disc diffusion method using Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes and Serratia marcescens as test organisms. Zone of inhibition ranged from 12 mm to 16 mm against standard zone of inhibition 24 mm. Petroleum ether extract of Nerium odorum was found to be more effective against S. aureus when compared to petroleum ether, benzene and chloroform extracts of both plants. None of the extract was effective against E. coli. Only methanol and water extract of Nerium odorum were effective against L. moncytogenes. Chloroform and methanol extract of Thevetia neriifolia were only effective against S. marcescens.

1 table, 6 ref

009078   Patel S I (Botany Dep, Arts, Science & Commerce College Ozar (Mig), Nashik-422 206, Email: shaikhamarpatel@hotmail.com) : Air borne Albugo accidentalis Wilson spores causing 'white rust disease' on spinach at Nashik, India.. Flora Fauna 2008, 14(1), 51-3.

Aeromycological studies over leafy vegetable spinach-Spinhacea oleraceae L was undertaken during both rabi and kharif seasons by using Tilak's air sampler at Nashik (M.S.). The air borne spores of Albugo were recorded inboth seasons of investigation. Highest concentration of spores, recorded (574 m³ of air) during high humid and rainy month of August and in March was due to harvesting activity. High temperature and low humidity during April reduced spore concentration and disease incidence. Disease development (white rust) was more rapid at about 22°C temperature and high relative humidity 85% to 95% during the rainy months.

2 illus, 7 ref

009077   Nilesh Kumar;MueenAhmed K K;Dang R;Sultana R (Pharmacognosy Dep, Al-Ameen college of Pharmacy, Hosur Road, Banglore-560 027, Email: makky@rediffmail.com) : Antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of propolis from Gujarat zone, India. Biomed 2008, 2(4), 390-5.

Propolis is an age old product used in traditional medicines. The anti microbial properties and anti-axidant properties of propolis are investigated and reported. The beehive propolis was subject to methanolic (40 and 100%) and ethanolic (100%) fractionation. It was found that among 40 or 100% methanolic extracts, both had similar antimicrobial effect. Among the two extracts, ethanolic extract had better effect than methanolic extracts. Ethanolic extract had the maximum effect on Bacillus subtilis with a zone of inhibitons of 16.0 mm. The DPPH radicle scavenging activity was found to be the highest in ethanolic extract at 100/mg/ml.

1 illus, 2 tables, 6 ref

009076   Nagrare V S;Pal R (NRC for Orchids, , Pakyong-737 106) : Cultivating potted orchids fetches more. Indian Hort 2008, 53(2), 24-6.

Potted orchids last far longer than cut flowers, their shelf-life being three weeks to four months, depending on variety. They have immense scope in India owing to their increasing popularity as profitable crops. Though the bulk of potted orchids sold are Phalaenopsis as it can be flowered year round and are available in numerous colours, other orchids like Oncidium, Paphiopedilum, Dendrobium, Cattleya, Aseoeenda, Yanda, Cycnoches, Encyclia, Peristeria, Brassia, Miltoniea, Epidendrum and some Indian species can be cultivated commercially for reaping profit.

009075   Misra S;Misra R L (Floriculture Dep, Birsa Agricultural University, Kanke, Ranchi) : Ornamental gardening during May-June. Indian Hort 2008, 53(2), 36.

009074   Mishra K N;Singh D B;Kumar A (NO, , 148-Kanhipur (Wazidpur)P.O. Jaunpur Kachehary, Distt Jaunpur-222 002, Email: mishraknjnp@rediffmail.com) : Fungal spore content in the atmosphere of different sites of Obra-Sonebhadra, (U.P.). Indian J Aerobiol 2008, 21(1), 42-7.

The investigation of airborne fungus was carried out at Obra, Sonebhadra situated in south eastern part of U.P. India. The culture plate method was used to determine airborne fungi from four different sites during the period of January to December 2005.A total of 13 fungal genera were identified; the most prevalent spore type was Aspergillus (25.64%) followed by Cladosporium (21.61%) Penicillum (18.06%) and Alternaria (15.00%) etc. Highest number of fungal colony observed from sites 11 (KVMS) 28.88% followed by site III (ORCS) 24.82%. Seasonality of aerofungi was recorded, two peak periods in autumn and spring seasons and very low frequency in summer seasons. The results provide to be helpful to allergologist and clinician in treatment of fungal related disease.

3 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

009073   Mesta R K;Benagi V I;Basavarajappa M P (Agricultural Research Station, , Devihosur, Haveri-584 101) : Management of seed-borne infection of alternaria in sunflower. Ann Biol 2008, 24(2), 153-7.

The study fungi viz., Alternaria alternata, Alternaria helianthi, Aspergillus spp., Curvularia spp., Fusarium spp., Mucor spp., Penicillum spp. and Rhizopus spp. were detected in infected seeds. However, except Alternaria spp., others were eliminated by surface sterilization. Among the seed dressing fungicides iprodione+carbendazim alongwith captan (both at concentration of 0.3 and 0.2) were found superior as they recorded lower per cent infection and higher germination percentage and vigour index.

2 tables, 12 ref

009072   Maruthi Rao A [et al.] (Genetics Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderbad-500 007, Email: pbkavi@yahoo.com) : High frequency plant regeneration from callus cultures of two finger millet (Eleusine coracana) cultivars. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2009, 3(1), 85-9.

Genotypic differences for callus induction, per cent frequency of plantlet regeneration and mean number of plants formed per 200 mg callus were observed in finger millet (Eleusine coracana). BAP was better, but kinetin is effective in finger millet for plant regeneration. High frequency plant regeneration was noticed upto 165 to 180 days which would pave the way for genetic transformation of finger millet.

1 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

009071   Mali R G;Mehta A A (Pharmacology Dep, L.M. College of Pharmacy, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad-380 009, Email: dranitalmcp@rediffmail.com) : Review on anthelmintic plants. Nat Prod Radiance 2008, 7(5), 466-75.

Modern synthetic medicines are very effective in curing diseases but also cause a number of side effects. Crude drugs are less efficient with respect to cure of diseases but are relatively free from side effects. Parasites have been of concern to the medical field for centuries and the helminths considered causing considerable problems for human beings and animals. A large number of medicinal plants are claimed to possess anthelmintic property in traditional systems of medicine and are also utilized by ethnic groups worldwide. Following the folk claims, several medicinal plants have been scrutinized for this activity using various in vitro and in vivo methods. Review summarizes some important pharmacological and preliminary studies on medicinal plants, products thereof and isolated principles from them, which can be investigated further to achieve lead molecules in the search of novel herbal drugs.

79 ref

009070   Khare H N;Saxena O P;Soni K K (P. G. Dep of Zoology, Govt. Maharaja College, Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh) : Culinary herbs used as antiinflammatory medicines in rural areas of Chhatarpur (M.P.). Flora Fauna 2008, 14(1), 111-14.

A vast majority of population particularly those living in villages depend largely on herbal medicines. A folklore information based survey of culinary herbs used as anti-inflammatory medicines was carried out during the year 2007 in rural areas of Chhatarpur district. These herbs are used in various diseases and ailments related to inflammatory activities. This study deals with 20 plant species belonging to 10 Families, which have been used as traditional anti-inflammatory medicines by the villagers and tribal peoples of Chhatarpur district of (M.P.).

1 table, 13 ref

009069   Kar A;Borthakur S K (NO, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), Northeastern Regional Centre VIP Road, Chachal, Guwahati-781 036, Email: ashishvision10@rediffmail.com) : Wild vegetables of Karbi - Anglong district, Assam. Nat Prod Radiance 2008, 7(5), 448-60.

Deals with 57 species of wild plants used as vegetable by the Karbi tribe of Karbi - Anglong district, Assam. The scientific names of the plants, method of use, regeneration, demand and form of use of these vegetables are included. Hghlighted the medicinal value, market price and shelf-life of the vegetables after harvest. The conservation of the indigenous plant wealth through cultivation and further follow up investigation on these plants for chemical analysis has also been emphasized.

4 tables, 36 ref

009068   Joshi M G;Kamat D V;Kamat S D (Mithibai College, S S Road No.1, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai-400 056, Email: kamats2@hotmail.com) : Evalution of herbal handwash formulation. Nat Prod Radiance 2008, 7(5), 413-15.

Herbal handwash was prepared using extracts of leaves of Terminalia catappa Linn., Couroupita guianensis Aubl. and rinds of Garcinia indica Choisy. The antibiotic sensitivity test of the prepared herbal handwash against skin pathogens was checked using Disc diffusion method and results were compared with the commercially available antiseptic soap. The results showed that the herbal handwash gave larger inhibition zone than the commercial antiseptic soap against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The efficacy of the herbal handwash was evaluated using Glove Juice method which revealed that the herbal hand-wash is efficient in reducing higher number of organisms from the hands than the commercial antiseptic soap. Hence, due to the higher antimicrobial activjly these plant materials can be used in the preparation of herbal handwash on commercial scale.

2 tables, 17 ref

009067   Hazarika S;Bujarbaruah D;Sarma G C (Botany Dep, Gauhati Univ, Guwahati-781 014) : Air borne fungal spores in a paper mill complex at Jagiroad, Assam. Indian J Aerobiol 2008, 21(1), 28-35.

Systematic aeromycological survey was carried out over the Hindustan Paper Mill area for a period of two years from October, 2003 to September, 2005 by using Burkard Personal Air Sampler. During the study a large number of fungal spores were observed over the Paper Mill area. The most commonly occurring fungal species are Cladosporiun sp. (24.62%), Curvularia sp. (11.35%), Mucor sp. (8.27%), Fusarium sp. (5.58%), Nigrospora sp. (4.81%), Alternaria sp. (4.04%). and Toruta sp. (3.65%). Maximum concentration of fungal spores was observed in bamboo- storage sampling site among the five sampling spots, and minimum was observed in Guest House. Maximum number of fungal spores were observed during the month of July 2004 (1480/m³) and minimum during the month of April 2005 (180/m³).

5 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

009066   Gupta H K;Singh V;Das R;Katoch V M;Chauhan S V S (Botany Dep, School of Life Sciences, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Univ, Agra-282 002, Email: svs250@rediffmail.com) : Morphological and molecular studies in azetidine 3-carboxilate (A3C) induced male sterile plants of Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss. Brassica 2008, 10(1-2), 29-35.

Light and transmission electronic microscopic studies in azetidine 3-carboxilate (A3C) treated Brassica juncea plants exhibiting 100% pollen sterility revealed that pollen abortion was associated with abnormal behavior of tapetum. The cells in tapetum failed to degenerate and remained intact till anthesis. Development of characteristic fibrous thickenings on the radial walls of endothecial cells in such anthers was partially or completely inhibited. The densely stained tapetal protoplast was clear indication of their nonfunctional state. Their cell organelles were seen in highly disorganized manner. It was interesting to note that at microspore tetrad stage, the number of mitochondria increased. These were of various shapes and smaller in size and their cristae were highly disorganized. At late microspore or early vacuolated pollen grain stage, these mitochondria degenerated. The sterile pollen grains in such anthers possessed single degenerated nucleus and highly degenerated cytoplasm. The molecular studies based on RT-PCR and Real Time PCR revealed that the fertility related anther specific gene Bcpl was over expressed to cause sterility.

3 illus, 35 ref

009065   Govindwar R B;Perumal P (J.K.K. Nataraja College of Pharmacy, , Komarapalayam-638 183, Email: rahulgovindwar@gmail.com) : Anti-tussive effect of methanolic extract of Euphorbia heterophylia Linn. Biomed 2008, 2(4), 396-9.

Effect of methonolic extract of Euphorbia helerophylla was studied inmice. Results suggested that the methanolic extract of E. heterophylla had significant anti-tussive effect on the mice. The anti-tussive effect was monitored at 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes after the administration of the drug. It was found that the anti-tussive effect was noticed after 30 minutes and continued upto 120 minutes.

1 table, 10 ref

009064   Giradkar P G;Yeragi S G (NO, K.J. Somaiya College of Science & Commerce, Vidyavihar, Mumbai, Maharashtra) : Flora of tadoba national park. Indian For 2008, 134(2), 263-9.

Enumerative account of 141 species belonging to 58 botanical families found in Tadoba National Park, Maharashtra, which consist of trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses along with their local names, type of vegetation and family has been given. Most of the plants are Angiosperms. The inventory includes all native and non-native plant species in the park that are growing without cultivation. Three species i.e. Hyptis suaveolens, Lantana camera and Parthenium kysterophorus are found as invasive weed species.

1 table, 5 ref

009063   Gilhotra N;Dhingra D (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar-125 001, Email: din_dhingra@rediffmail.com) : Review on antianxiety plants. Nat Prod Radiance 2008, 7(5), 476-83.

Anxiety is a psychological disorder characterized by a persistent and disproportionate fear unrelated to any genuine risk. Apart from very few chemical remedies available like benzodi-azepines and serotonin modulators, not much treatment options are at hand that could safely and effectively alleviate anxiety. The paper discusses anti-anxiety potential of 56 plants with emphasis on their pre-clinical and clinical reports. Majority of these plants have been found to be acting through modulation of serotonin and γ-amino butyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitters.

^iia68 ref

009062   Ghosh S N;Banik B C (Fruits & Orchard Management Dep, Faculty of Horticulture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741 252) : Effect of season on success of air layering in acid lime grown in red laterite zone of West Bengal. Envir Ecol 2008, 26(3), 1204-5.

Experiment was conducted in the farmer's field at Jhargram to find out the best time for air layering in acid lime cv Patio Results from the two years of investigation revealed that air layering during rainy season (June to September) resulted in cent percent rooting success with 80 to 90% field establishment.

^ssc1 table, 2 ref

009061   Ghosh N;Barua B (Botany Dep, T.D.B. College Raniganj, Burdwan-713 347) : Inventory of macrophytes in coalmine pitfalls in Raniganj, dist. Burdwan, West Bengal. Flora Fauna 2008, 14(1), 29-31.

Macrophytes in form of 29, 3, 2 and 1 species of angiosperms, Pteriodophytes, bryophytes and algae respectively were recorded from 10 pitfalls in the Mahabir Colliery, Raniganj as a step to assess the successive naturalization of these water bodies into wetlands.

2 tables, 5 ref

009060   Ghosh A (NO, , C/O Tushar Dutta, 1/E - 5, Mitra Compound, P.O. & District-Pachim Medinipur-721 101) : Ethnomedicinal plants used in west Rarrh region of West Bengal. Nat Prod Radiance 2008, 7(5), 461-5.

Deals with the traditional methods of treating human diseases and disorders using plant-based drugs recorded from tribal and rural folks in West Rarrh region of West Bengal. A total of 46 plant species belonging to 30 families of angiosperms are employed by the inhabitants in the form of infusion, decoction, oil, paste, latex, etc. either as a sole drug or in combination to treat various ailments. The dose/s, duration and method of administration are given along with botanical name, family, plant's part/ form of recipe used and local plant names. The folk herbal formulations however, require further testing.

1 table, 7 ref

009059   Elumalai S;Raaman N (Centre for Advanced Studies in Botany, University of Madras, Guindy Campus, Chennai-600 025) : In vitro synthesis of Frankia and mycorrhiza with Casuarina equisetifolia and ultrastructure of root system. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(4), 289-97.

Casuarina equisetifolia is one of the ecologically and economically important tropical coastal trees nodulated by nitrogen-fixing actinomycete Frankia and forming symbiotic associations with both ecto- and endomycorrhizal fungi. The present study aims at the ultrastructural study of interactions between C. equisetifolia, Frankia, and mycorrhiza. C. equisetifolia seeds were sterilised and germinated under in vitro condition. The seedlings were transferred to conical flasks containing vermiculite and saw dust with Hoagland's solution. After 30 days, the inoculum of AM fungus - Glomus fasciculatum (A), ectomycorrhizal fungus_Pisolithus tinctorius (E) and actinorhizal Frankia (F) were inoculated individually and in various combinations, (A+E), (A+F), E+F) and (A+E+F). After 90 days, the experimental plant roots and nodules were harvested for assessment of growth characters of mycorrhizal and actinorhizal association by light and scanning electron microscope methods. C. equisetifolia roots were infected with arbuscles and vesicles of G. fasciculatum; P. tinctorius formed fungal sheath but no Hartig net. Large number of cortical cells were seen infected with Frankia, hyphae of Frankia were frequently seen penetrating from cell to cell directly through cell walls and Frankia occupied majority of the cell volume.

009058   Deore S I;Khadabadi S S;Bhagure L;Ghorpade D S (NO, Govt. College of Pharmacy, Kathora Naka, Amravati-444 604, Email: khadabadi@yahoo.com) : In vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant studies on Enicostemma axillare (Lam.) raynal. leaves. Nat Prod Radiance 2008, 7(5), 409-12.

Enicostemma axillare (Lam.) Raynal. syn. E. littorale Blume (Family- Gentianaceae) is a perennial herb found throughout the greater part of India. Locally it is known as chota chirayita and used in indigenous medicines in the treatment of fevers and as bitter tonic and forms one of ingredients of many hypoglycemic marketed formulations. In the study in vitro antimicrobial activity (Well diffusion method) of aqueous, hydro alcoholic, methanolic, chloroform and ethyl acetate extract of leaves of this plant has been evaluated. Six bacterial species and two fungal strains used for study are: Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Proteus vulgaris, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Shigella sonni, Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans. It was observed that chloroform, ethyl acetate and hydroalcoholic extract showed prominent antimicrobial activity against all microorganisms. In vitro antioxidant activity of each extract except ethyl acetate and the possible mechanism involved was investigated by using two different model covering nitric oxide and DPPH method. The result indicated efficacy of extracts for antioxidant activity in following sequence: methanol > hydro alcoholioaqueous > chloroform.

2 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

009057   Das K;Sahu B (Botany Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Bina, Sagar, Madhya Pradesh) : Pteridophytic diversity of Vidisha district, Madhya Pradesh, India. Flora Fauna 2008, 14(1), 57-8.

A survey of pteridophytes distributed naturally and cultivated in Vidisha district, was conducted during the period 2006 - 2007. A total of 14 species under 13 families and 13 genera were collected.

1 table, 14 ref

009056   Bhardwaj S K;Laura J S (Bio-Sciences Dep, M.D. University, Rohtak-124 001, Email: skhmdu66@gmail.com) : Antifungal activity of some plant-extracts against Curvularia lunata. Int J Trop Agric 2008, 26(1-2), 99-102.

Aqueous extracts from twenty plants were screened for their antifungal activity against Curvularia lunata inciting discolouration of rice seed. Test results showed a differential activity of the plant extracts against the mycelium growth. The marvelous inhibitory effect was shown by leaf extracts of Camellia sinensis and bark extracts of Acacia arabicae. The root extracts of Asparagus racemosus, stem extracts of Aloevera and fruit extracts of Aegle marmelos showed appreciable strong inhibitory effect against the test fungi. Other plants viz. Azadirachta indica> Callistemon lanceolatus> Albizia lebbeck> Achyrnnthes asper> Anthocephalus cadamba> Acacia fernesiana showed inhibitory activity in that order.

26 ref

009055   Asghar Nawab (NO, , World Wide Fund for Nature India Secretariat 172B, Lodi Estate, New Delhi-110 003, Email: anawab@wwfindia.net) : Enumeration of medicinal plants of Hastinapur wildlife sancturay, Uttar Pradesh, India. Flora Fauna 2008, 14(1), 125-9.

Highlights the occurrence and distribution of medicinal flora hitherto unreported from Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, U.P. Out of 193 species collected, 40 species find use in linterature on Indian medicinal plants. Brief description and medicinal use(s) of these plants are given and conservation measures have been suggested.

1 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

009054   Anitha S;Abdul Rehman;Manjunath P M;Divakar Goli (Pharmacology Dep, Acharya and B.M. Reddy College of Pharmacy, Banglore-560 090) : Evalution of anti-inflammatory activity of ethanolic extract of Axalypha indica linn. Biomed 2008, 2(4), 363-6.

Acalypha indica was collected from the region of Hessaraghatta and was authenticated by the Department of Botany Gnanabharathi, Bangalore. The fresh leaf of Acalypha indica was air dried and ground into fine powder. The finely powdered leaf was extracted with ethanol. The ethanolic extract was used for the evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity. 1% yeast suspension was used to induce inflammation in rat paw. The subcutaneous injection of 1% yeast induced inflammation in rats. The inflammation produced was measured plethysmometrically at the time intervals of 0. 1. 3 and 24 hrs. The ethanolic extract was administered orally for the evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity. The significant activity was observed at the dose of 200mg/kg body weight after 24 hrs. The percentage inhibition of paw oedema at 200 mg/kg body weight was found to be 71.42%.

1 table, 9 ref

009053   Anitha Devi U;Singaracharya M A (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Diversity of bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes in lentic (lower manair dam) and lotic (Kakatiya canal) systems, Karimnagar, Andhra Pradesh. Flora Fauna 2008, 14(1), 140-8.

Enumeration of bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes was made in Lower Manair Dam and Kakatiya Canal of Karimnagar, Andhra Pradesh. Bacterial, Fungal and Actinomycetes populations varied with the seasonal fluctuations. Large population of these microorganisms were recorded during rainy and winter seasons and less in summer season. Mean value of microbial population was recorded more in Lower Manair Dam than Kakatiya Canal with regard to fungi and bacteria and higher mean values for actinomycetes were recorded in Kakatiya Canal.

6 tables, 42 ref

009052   Ambujakshi H R;Shivananda B G;Khanam S (NO, Acharya and B.M. Reddy College of Pharmacy, Soledevanahalli Post, Banglore-560 090, Email: hrambujakshi_ramesh@yahoo.co.in) : Isolation of colosolic acid from the leaves of Lagerstroemia speciosa (L) pers.. Biomed 0000, 2(4), 355-8.

Toluene and methanolic extract of leaves of Lagerstroemia speciosa were subjected to column chromatography. Triterpenoid, colosolic acid were isolated. The analytical data, IR, ¹HNMR of the isolated compound clearly established the identity of the compound.

2 illus, 4 ref

008376   Vikas;Yadav S R (NO, University of Delhi, Botany Dep, Email: vikasbhardwaj@mail.com) : Check-list of flowering plants of proposed Yamuna biodiversity park (Delhi). J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(4), 925-41.

Flowering plants in proposed Yamuna Biodiversity Park area at Delhi have been enumerated.

15 ref

008375   Verma S K;Jain V;Katewa S S (Indigenous Drug Research Cntre, Medicine Dep, RNT Medical College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, Email: drskverma@medscape.com) : Urgent need for conservation of silk cotton tree (Bombax ceiba) - a plant of ethnomedicinal importance. Bull Bio Sci 2006, 4(1), 81-4.

Bombax ceiba L., a plant of ubiquitous distribution has very high reputation as ethnomedicinal plant in literature. It has been reported to be useful in gastrointestinal disorders, skin diseases, gynecological problems, bladder disorders, debility, diabetes and impotence. Recent Research has documented its hypotensive, antioxidant, hepato-protective, anti H. pylori activity and anticancer property. People have started cutting the tree for Holika-Dahan and for wood carvings on large scale. It has started becoming rare now a days due to commercial over-exploitation. Newer conservation techniques should be urgently employed for preserving this important plant of immense medicinal value.

17 ref

008374   Verma A P;Vidyarthi S K;Gara S K (Plant Pathology & Biochemistry Laboratory, Post Graduate of Botany, Magadh Univ, A.N. College, Patna) : Effect of industrial effluents on chlorophyll content of Vigna Radiata. Bioved 2008, 19(1-2), 37-40.

The chlorophyll content of plants treated with 25% concentration of tannery effluent was more than the control plant The content of chlorophyll was almost similar t control plant in rest of the two effluents i.e. Mahua and plastic effluents.

1 table, 18 ref

008373   Smrithi A N;Parvathi S (H.O. Dep of Botany, Avinashilingam Univ for Women, Coimbatore-43) : Antifungal activity of certain plants on wet clothes. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 577-9.

During rainy season, when clothes are not properly dried they develop spots. In clothes the spots appear as black or greenish black in colour and these spots or mildews were cultured and microscopically examined. It was identified fungi, viz. Aspergillus niger, Penicillium sp and Mucor sp. Antifungal activity of Azadimchta indica, Eucalyptus globulus and Nicotiana tabaccum were screened. The antifungal activity was graded based on the zone of inhibition. Among the plants selected petroleum ether extract of A. indica exhibited the maximum growth inhibition, followed by E. globulus and N. tatbacum.

1 table, 3 ref

008372   Sivaraj N;Sunil N;Kamala V;Pandravada S R (National Bureau of Plant Genetic Genetic Resources, , Regional Station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030) : Weed flora in the groundnut field - an ecological study. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(4), 901-6.

Ecological study of the weed flora of groundnut field in Medak district of Andhra Pradesh, India had been conducted. The floristic composition, frequency percentage, relative frequency, density, relative density and abundance values of families and individual weed species of community structure had been worked out using standard procedures. The floristic composition of the weeds indicated the dominance of dicot taxa over monocots with a ratio of 2.3:1.0. Twenty-five weed species belonging to nine families were recorded, of which 8 species represented two monocot families. Poaceae weeds are more predominant. Cynodon dactylon, Portulaca oleracea and Fuirena ciliaris are most frequently occurring weed species with high relative density values. The present study fulfilled the Raunkiaer's law of frequency class.

3 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

008371   Singh S M;Husain T (Taxonomy & Biodiversity Div, National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow-226 001, Email: drsmsingh@yahoo.com) : Sem study of the leaf epidermis in Indian species of the family berberidaceae. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(4), 818-38.

Work is an enumeration of the systematic value of epidermal characters in family Berberidaceae. The study is based on 26 species of Berberis L. and one species of Mahonia Nutt. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) studies indicate that all the species and even varieties are hypostomatic, i.e. stomata situated exclusively on the abaxial leaf surface with guard cells slightly raised above the subsidiary cells in most cases and stomata are situated at the same level as other epidermal cells. Trichomes are completely absent. Cell boundaries (clear or not clear) and cuticular ornamentations are of significance at the species level, and rarely at higher categories in some cases.

2 tables, 22 ref

008370   Singh J N;Chaturvedi S P;Selvam A B D (Botanical Survey of India, , Howrah-711 103) : Medicinal plant species - their hydro-edaphic properties in woodland habitat of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Kerala. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(4), 975-89.

Deals with eighteen major taxa of medicinal plant species, their habit, distribution, chief uses and principal associates along with their hydro-edaphic properties in the woodland habitat of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve - Kerala. It is held from the results that soils irrespective of their location of elevation possess a high pool of energy content in their reserve, but, it is a declined status in comparison to 1982 values. Besides energy content, their other relevant properties such as soils proteins, available phosphorus, cation exchange capacity, water holding capacity, porosity etc are quite conducive for the proper growth and development of these plant species, and as such these taxa are found in very healthy state on one hand, and on other, the soils are quite balanced at present. Results further illustrate that habitats other potent agent i.e. their water regimes are quite bereft of charge carrying particles in their respective per unit volume irrespective of their sources and location, but they are free of all alkali hazards. The hydro-edaphic chemistry of the region appears to be complementary to each other.

5 tables, 35 ref

008369   Remashree A B;Varghese T T;Salim N;Nandakumar S;Neelakandan N (Botany Dep, Biomass Research Project, University of Calicut-673 635, , Email: remashree@rediffmail.com) : Anatomical adaptations of certain fuel wood tree species to waterlogging stress. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(4), 915-20.

Tree species Terminalia catappa, T. cuneata, Syzygium cumini and Pongamia pinnata were grown under waterlogged conditions for a period of 3-12 months. Anatomical studies of these plants were carried out to understand the acclimatization mechanisms compared to control plants. All the four tree species under waterlogged conditions showed survival and varying adaptations in their anatomy, including stem hypertrophy, development of shizogenous and lysigenous cavities in cortex as well as pith and formation of periderm. Variations in anatomical changes in roots include additional layers of aerenchymatous tissues around the outer epidermis and aerenchyma formation during secondary growth the S. cumini and T. catappa. Aerenchyma formation in secondary tissues under stress conditions indicate high adaptive features of these tree species compared to Pongamia pinnata and Terminalia cuneata.

1 illus, 13 ref

008368   Rawat R S (Ecology & Biodiversity Conservation Division, Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Conifer Campus, Shimla (HP)) : Potential ligneous flora of Himalayan cold desert with reference to Spiti valley of north west Himalayas. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(4), 942-7.

Ligneous plants play a vital role directly as well indirectly in the day-to-day life of local habitants of the cold desert. They're low in occurrence and sparsely found and are under threat due to over exploitation by the locals for meeting their fuel and fodder requirements. Keeping in view, several surveys were conducted in Spiti valley of North-West Himalayas and collected 32 potential ligneous plant species, which are described here with recent botanical names, distribution and uses in cold desert areas of Spiti valley (Himachal Pradesh). Documentation of ligneous plant species provides the base line information which will be helpful for planners, policy makers, researchers and foresters for devising suitable strategies for afforestation of low laying areas including riparian ecosystems of the Spiti valley.

5 ref

008367   Ramesh Kumar R;Singh S P (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow-226 001) : Taxonomical description of India specific Cuphea species - a potential oil seed crop. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(4), 888-900.

Seventeen species of Cuphea Moench, a potential oil seed crop, that were able to reproduce in the climatic conditions prevalent in northern India and a novel mutant (C. procumben) developed through gamma irradiation, were investigated for stem, leaf and flower characteristics to assign descriptive characters for species identification. Enormous variations between and within species were observed for these characters, of which floral morphology was found of taxonomical significance. Of 17 species, four promising species, viz. C. procumbens, C. lanceolata, C. viscosissima and C. wrightii var. wrightii were studied in more detail. C. wrightii was relatively more uniform among accessions for the traits studied, followed by C. procumbens, C. viscossima and C. lanceolata. C. calophylla and C. micrantha of section Brachyandra showed similarity for most of the traits observed and C. hookeriana showed distinct morphology for flora characters. The mutants possess novel (white) petal colour and almost morphologically similar to wild parents except for minor colour variation in other parts also.

2 illus, 4 tables, 13 ref

008366   Rai B B;Jaiswal A;Pandey R P;Shukla D N (Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad-211 002) : Fungi isolated from Phyllanthus emblica L. in and around Pratapgarh district of U.P. (India). Bioved 2008, 19(1-2), 163-4.

A comprehensive survey of various fields of Pratapgarh, district of UP. (India) and its adjacent regions were made and samples of different part of Aonla i.e. fruit, tree and soil around tree were collected. Soil plates method were used for isolation of Fungi species. Fungi were isolated on modified Czapek's medium. Morphological studies were carried out and identification were made. Twenty Genus of fungi namely Botryodiplodia theobromae, Pestalotia varricolar, Phoma putaminum, Cladosporium oxysporum, Cytospora spp., Fusarium solani, Fusarium semitectum, Aspergillus niger, Curvularia lunata, Attemaria altemata, Phoma emblica, Hendersonula toruloidea, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Fusarium spp., Aspergillus flavus', Aspergillus stolonifer, Fusarium equiseti, Penicillium spp., Phoma glomerata, Helminthosporium sativum were isolated from Phyllanthus emblica L. at Pratapgarh District.

1 table, 7 ref

008365   Rahman H (Botany Dep, J.N.College, Boko, Kamrup, Assam) : Diversity of Rattans canes in Assam and their conservation. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(4), 907-12.

Rattans or canes are the commercially important non-timber forest produce (NTFP). About 60 species under 5 genera, viz. Calamus, Daemonorops, Korthalsia, Plectocomia and Zalacca have been reported, out of which North East India alone accounts for 4 genera and 25 species. This paper presents results of recent survey done on rattans in different districts of Assam and reviews the distribution of different species in the entire North Eastern region of India. Altogether 14 species under 4 genera, namely Calamus, Daemonorops, Plectocomia and Zalacca have been recorded. The present status of Rattans in the State is also recorded basing on the IUCN Red List Criteria Review 1999 and 2000 (Species Survival Committee Provisional Report). Three species of Rattans reported during earlier survey (C.khasianus, P. bractealis & P. himalayana), could not be located in Assam. Conservation strategies for Rattans in the region have been suggested.

3 tables, 20 ref

008364   Panwar S;Vashistha B D (Botany Dep, Kurukshetra Univ, Kurukshetra-136 119) : Effect of some auxins on regenerative potential of various parts of Crataeva nurvala Buch.-Ham.. Ann agric biol Res 2008, 13(2), 103-13.

Effects of some auxins (IAA, IBA, NAA and 2, 4-D) have been studied on the regenerative potential of different explants in Crataeva nurvala under in vitro conditions. No callusing was observed on 0.5 and 1.0 mg/l IAA in any of the explants, while on 2.0 mg/l IAA shoot tip and internode formed little callus. At 3.0 mg/l IAA only internode formed small amount of callus. No differentiation of shoot buds was observed in any of the explants at any concentration of IAA tried. IBA (0.5-3.0 mg/l) failed to induce callus and regeneration in shoot tip, nodal, internodal segments, leaf and petiole. Except leaf all the other explants formed callus to varying extent on MS medium containing NAA. Internodal explant showed maximum callusing at NAA 2.0 mg/l, while petiole explant showed least callusing (10%) at NAA 0.5 mg/l. Formation of roots directly from leaf lamina and midrib region was observed on NAA (1.0-3.0 mg/l). Profuse callusing was observed in all explants on 2, 4-D supplemented MS media. At 2.0 mg/l 2, 4-D the response was 100%. The internode explant exhibited 100% callusing at all the concentrations of 2, 4-D tried. No differentiation of shoot buds was observed in any of the explants at any of the concentrations.

5 illus, 4 tables, 29 ref