Fresh Tender Research Articles

PHARMACEUTICAL STUDY OF ERANDA TAILA EXTRACTED FROM ERANDA BEEJA WITH AND WITHOUT SHODHANA

Eranda Taila (castor oil) is a widely used drug in Ayurveda. The classical texts Yogaratnakara and Rasatarangini have mentioned the shodhana process (purificatory procedure) of Eranda beeja (Ricinus communis Linn. seeds). Shodhana aims to nullify or reduce toxins and improve the therapeutic efficacy and potency of a drug. The shodhana of Eranda beeja (castor seeds) was performed as per the classics, using the method of swedana, which involves heating a pottali (cloth pouch) containing decorticated Eranda beeja immersed in narikelodaka (fresh tender coconut water) for 3 hours. Eranda Taila was extracted from shodhita (purified) and ashodhita (unpurified) Eranda beeja using the traditional method of castor oil extraction. The obtained shodhita Eranda Taila was light brown, had the characteristic odour of coconut and castor, was less nauseating, and was yielded in higher quantity than ashodhita Eranda Taila. The ashodhita Eranda Taila was creamish yellow and exhibited the characteristic odour of castor.

Key Account Management as a Differentiator in Trade-offs: The Case of Universal Heater Industries

The case narrates a typical business-to-business scenario wherein the customer (Bodha Constructions) calls for a fresh tender for the water heater supply. Universal Heater Industries (UHI), the current vendor, has won the price agreement for three years in the past, and seemingly has done a terrific job. UHI is surprised by the turn of events on the fresh tender, as their previous price agreement gave them an entitlement to a 15% price hike after three years. The new development of a fresh tender with a minor specification change put UHI’s plans in a quandary. The case depicts the tactics played by a large customer in pushing a vendor to align to new expectations despite a pre-agreed price hike.

Quantification of enzymatic antioxidants (catalase and peroxidase) and non-enzymatic antioxidants (ascorbic acid and chlorogenic acid) in the tender shoots of seven bamboo species and their products, found in Arunachal Pradesh, India

This study was undertaken to understand the anti-oxidative properties of products of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic origin derived from bamboo shoots of seven species, namely Dendrocalamus hamiltonii, Phyllostachys bambusoides, Bambusa tulda, Dendrocalamus giganteus, Bambusa pallida, Bambusa balcooa, and Gigantochola macrostachya, as well as three processed bamboo shoot products, namely Hidung (roasted and partially fermented shoot) Eup (moist fermented shoot), and Ekung (dried fermented shoot). The latter three products are widely consumed by the tribal people of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Catalase enzyme activities (CAT) among the shoots were significantly different (F = 18.574, P < 0.001) with the highest values being in B. balcooa and P. bambusoides (2.7 units/g sample) and the lowest in G. macrostachya (0.9 units/g sample), respectively. Peroxidase GPX activity among the shoots and processed products was also significantly different (F= 17.996, P < 0.001 and F= 8.75, P < 0.05, respectively) with a range of between 125.6 and 239.6 GPX units/g for fresh and 170.7–180.3 GPX units/g for processed products. Ascorbic acid contents in the tender shoots of all the species and processed products ranged from 2.35 to 6.1 mg/100 g for fresh tender shoots and 2.23–5.61 mg/100 g for processed products. Chlorogenic acid (CGA) content was estimated to be 0.22–1.16 mg/100 g for fresh material and 0.24–0.26 mg/100 g for processed products. Fresh tender shoots had higher antioxidative properties of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic origin than fermented and processed forms. Higher antioxidant levels were observed in partially fermented Hidung than in the other two processed forms. Bamboo shoots and their processed forms have an adequate level of antioxidant characteristics, making them a nutritious meal that may be included in a healthy diet plan.

Combined metabolomics and transcriptomics analysis reveals the mechanism underlying blue light-mediated promotion of flavones and flavonols accumulation in Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. microgreens.

Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. (Chuanxiong) is an important Chinese medicinal herb, whose rhizomes are widely used as raw materials for treating various diseases caused by blood stasis. The fresh tender stems and leaves of Chuanxiong are also consumed and have the potential as microgreens. Here, we investigated the effect of light spectra on yield and total flavonoid content of Chuanxiong microgreens by treatment with LED-based white light (WL), red light (RL), blue light (BL), and continuous darkness (DD). The results showed that WL and BL reduced biomass accumulation but significantly increased total flavonoid content compared to RL or DD treatments. Widely targeted metabolomics analysis confirmed that BL promoted the accumulation of flavones and flavonols in Chuanxiong microgreens. Further integration of transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis revealed the mechanism by which BL induces the up-regulation of transcription factors such as HY5 and MYBs, promotes the expression of key genes targeted for flavonoid biosynthesis, and ultimately leads to the accumulation of flavones and flavonols. This study suggests that blue light is a proper light spectra to improve the quality of Chuanxiong microgreens, and the research results lay a foundation for guiding the de-etiolation of Chuanxiong microgreens to obtain both yield and quality in production practice.

Essential Amino Acids and Nutrients Found in Tender Bamboo Shoots and Products Available in Arunachal Pradesh, India

Bamboo is a versatile grass with multiple applications and yielding edible tender shoots. Juvenile shoots are a delicacy for many ethnic communities all over the globe and are rich in essential nutrients for human health. A study was conducted to identify the concentrations of essential amino acids viz. Lysine, Methionine, and Tryptophan with Crude protein, Crude fiber, and Carbohydrates in both fresh and processed tender shoots of seven commercial bamboo species available in Arunachal Pradesh, India. Concentrations of all nutritional parameters considered for this study are comparable with conventional foods and some values were higher in processed bamboo shoot products than those of fresh tender shoots. Findings of this study revealed that bamboo shoots and their processed products are highly nutritious which can provide opportunities in both nutritional as well as economic aspects to the people of the country in general and the state in particular. It may provide opportunities to combat poverty and hunger by opting for new readily available food sources and may also provide scope to overcome malnutrition, especially in the areas where it is widely prevalent.

Nutritive value of tender shoots of different bamboo species in relation to harvesting height in mid-hills of north-western Himalayas

Recognizing the importance of bamboos in human life and the knowledge gap concerning the nutritional value of tender bamboo shoots harvested at different heights; the current study was carried out by taking seven bamboo species (Dendrocalamus asper, D. hamiltonii, D. giganteus, Melocanna baccifera, Bambusa balcooa, Phyllostachys bambusoides and P. pubescens) at four harvesting heights (15±2, 20±2, 25±2 and 30±2 cm) in the mid-hills of north-western Himalayas. The findings revealed that the physical, nutritional, and anti-nutritional attributes of fresh tender shoots of bamboo species varied markedly with harvesting height. The maximum moisture content (92.66%), potassium (K) (526.62 mg 100 g−1) and calcium (Ca) (17.88 mg 100 g−1) were recorded in D. hamiltonii, while low in ascorbic acid (2.35 mg 100 g−1) and hydrogen cyanide (HCN) (44.78 mg 100 g−1) content. Similarly, the highest fat (0.46%) and ash (1.24%) recorded in M. baccifera while protein (3.16%), edible per cent (49.95%) and shoot weight (669.35 g) in P. pubescens, D. asper and D. giganteus, respectively. P. bambusoides had the maximum carbohydrate (4.74%) but lowest in antioxidant activity (41.99%). Similarly, D. asper had the maximum phosphorus (P) content (39.91 mg 100 g−1) while low in total phenols (1.23 mg 100 g−1). Overall, the level of nutritional traits viz., protein, ash, antioxidant, ascorbic acid, P, and Ca decreases with increasing harvesting height, whereas carbohydrates, K, HCN, and total phenol content increases. For edible use, the bamboo species should be chosen based on the need for a specific nutritional trait, preferably at 15±2 cm in height.

Soil Fertility, Growth, Yield and Root Quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management Practices

ABSTRACT Radish is a popular root vegetable grown worldwide and young fresh tender tuberous roots can be cooked or eaten raw in salads. The haphazard use of inorganic fertilizers for long period deteriorates fertility and productivity of soil. Therefore, this study was proposed for an extensive evaluation of different combinations of organic manure, bio fertilizer with inorganic fertilizers and influence on growth, yield, quality, and soil health. This study was carried out on radish cv. Japanese white with 13 treatment combinations in randomized block design with three replications. Soil quality was increased in terms of availability of N(Nitrogen), P (Phosphorus) and K (Potassium) to the tune of 15.17, 18.66 and 13.0%, respectively by integrated module 90% RDF (Recommended dose of fertilizers) + 10% SMC (Spent Mushroom Compost) + FYM (Farm Yard Manure) + AZB (Azotobacter) + PSB (Phosphate Solubilising Bacteria). Application of 90% Recommended dose of Fertilizers +10% Spent Mushroom Compost + Farm Yard Manure + Azotobacter + Phosphate Solubilising Bacteriarecorded maximum number of leaves (15.68), leaf size (21.01 x 9.88 cm), root size (18.80 x 2.86 cm), root weight (130.42 g), root yield (341.68q/ha) while, 60% Recommended dose of fertilizers +40% Spent Mushroom Compost+ Farm Yard Manure + Azotobacter + Phosphate Solubilising Bacteria proved best for quality attributes. Increase in yield under T6 was to the tune 11.44% over standard practices. Our findings of integrated nutrient management approaches may effectively address the present notion of “farming for health” to maintain soil health for sustainable crop production.

Isolation and Identification of Secondary Metabolites Produced by Phytopathogenic Fungus Corynespora cassiicola from Hevea brasiliensis

The secondary metabolites of the phytopathogenic fungus Corynespora cassiicola CC01 from Hevea brasiliensis were investigated. As a result, two new compounds, 5-acetyl-7-hydroxy-6- methoxybenzofuran-2(3H)-one (1) and (S)-2-(2,3-dihydrofuro [3,2-c]pyridin-2-yl)propan-2-ol (2), together with seven known compounds, 4,6,8-trihydroxy-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one (3), 3,6,8-trihydroxy-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one (4), curvulin acid (5), 2-methyl-5-carboxymethyl- 7-hydroxychromone (6), tyrosol (7), p-hydroxybenzoic acid (8) and cerevisterol (9), were isolated from the fermentation extract by comprehensive silica gel, reverse phase silica gel, Sephadex-LH20 column chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The structures of these compounds were identified by using high-resolution electrospray mass spectrometry (HRESIMS), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), optical rotation, ultraviolet and infrared spectroscopy techniques and a comparison of NMR data with those reported in the literature. Compounds 1 and 2 were new compounds, and compounds 3-9 were discovered from this phytopathogenic fungus for the first time. Compounds 1-9 were tested for phytotoxicity against the fresh tender leaf of Hevea brasiliensis, and the results show that none of them were phytotoxic. Additionally, these compounds were subjected to an antimicrobial assay against three bacteria (E. coli, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus luteus), but they showed no activity.

Evaluation of Fracture Resistance of Reattached Fractured Tooth Fragment Stored in Different Storage Media: An In Vitro Study

To evaluate the fracture resistance of coronal fractured tooth fragments stored in five different storage media when reattached with nanohybrid flowable composite. The crown portion of 50 extracted human permanent maxillary central incisors were divided into three equal parts (incisal third, middle third and cervical third) and then marked incisal third were cut with the diamond disk. These were divided into five equal groups according to the type of storage media used i.e. dry storage, fresh tender coconut water, HBSS, milk, and propolis for 2 hours. Coronal fractured part with their respective apical parts were then reattached with flowable composite (G-aenial Universal Flo, GC India), then after thermocycling process samples were subjected to universal testing machine for testing fracture resistance. The collected data were subjected to statistical analysis using one way ANOVA and Post-hoc Tukey test. The obtained results revealed that large amount of force is required to fracture the reattached teeth which were stored in milk and fresh tender coconut water as compared to those which were stored in dry environment, HBSS and propolis. In this study, maximum fracture resistance was seen in teeth stored in milk and fresh tender coconut water. Therefore, these two were considered as better storage media. Due to increased interest towards the use of tooth colored restoration, recently, fractured teeth reattachment treatment procedure gaining attention by preserving life like translucency of treated tooth.

Unravelling the comparative metabolite fingerprints and therapeutic effects of diverse teas

The comparative metabolite fingerprinting and bioactivity of different teas viz. green tea, oolong tea, white tea, orthodox black tea, and Cut/crush, Tear and Curl (CTC) black tea as compared to unprocessed tea leaves (GTL) were elucidated. The fresh tender tea shoots collected from single location were processed into different tea forms and brewed homogenously. The mass fingerprinting analysis using ultra high performance liquid chromatography ion mobility quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-IMS) revealed substantial variability of key metabolites among different tea brews. Statistical analysis (Venn-diagram, Heatmap and PCA) has revealed significant variation in metabolites content among different teas. Catechins and caffeine were identified and quantified in all infusions using high-pressure liquid chromatography analysis. 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay, 2,2′-azino-bis (3 ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) radical cation decolourisation assay and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay unveiled significant antioxidant potential by all the infusions. The results of α-glucosidase inhibition by different teas showed positive effects in management of postprandial hyperglycemia. The tea samples also unveiled significant results for nitric oxide inhibition in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages and cytotoxicity against A-549 and CT26.CL25 cancer cells. Hence, it has established that tea processing has substantial role on key metabolite composition and therapeutic potential of different tea infusions.

Assessment of chemical contaminants in fresh and packaged tender coconut (Cocos nucifera) water

Pesticide residues and heavy metals were analysed in both fresh tender coconut water (FTCW) (n = 161) and packaged tender coconut water (PTCW) (n = 126) samples collected from three southern states of India [Andhra Pradesh (AP), Kerala (KL), and Tamil Nadu (TN)]. A method validated in the laboratory using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used for pesticide residues, while heavy metals were analysed using a validated method of inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Significant differences in heavy metal concentrations were assessed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc test (between different varieties collected 'within' and 'among' states). FTCW samples [n = 9 (6%)] collected from TN showed Monocrotophos and Malathion residues in the range of 1.0 µg L&lt;sup&gt;–1&lt;/sup&gt; to 51.6 µg L&lt;sup&gt;–1&lt;/sup&gt; and 0.5 µg L&lt;sup&gt;–1&lt;/sup&gt; to 0.6 µg L&lt;sup&gt;–1&lt;/sup&gt;, respectively, while they were detected in n = 5 (4%) of the PTCW samples at a range of 0.90 µg L&lt;sup&gt;–1&lt;/sup&gt; and 0.82 µg L&lt;sup&gt;–1&lt;/sup&gt; to 1.56 µg L&lt;sup&gt;–1&lt;/sup&gt;. Heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), and stannum (Sn) were detected in different varieties collected from all three states. Some of the PTCW samples also contained traces of Cd, Cr, cobalt (Co), and Pb. Arsenic (As) was found in one sample from KL, while none of the samples was contaminated with mercury (Hg). The present study accentuates the need for fixing standards for the pesticide residues in coconut water.

Phytochemistry and Antimicrobial Activities of Crude and Diluted Leaves and Roots Extracts of Uvaria chamae on Selected Bacteria

Plant metabolites are antibacterial. Antibacterial properties of aqueous, methanolic and n-hexane extracts of crude and diluted leaves and roots extracts of Uvaria chamae were studied to demonstrate its potential as achemotherapeutic agent. Test organisms include: Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella typhi and Proteus vulgaris. Fresh tender leaves and roots of Uvaria charmae were collected, air- dried, grounded and soaked in methanol, n-hexane and aqueous solvents. Phytochemistry was done using standard procedures, antimicrobial activity was determined using agar-well diffusion method (punch hole) and MIC determined. Qualitative phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, terpernoids, glycosides, saponins and flavonoids. Antimicrobial analysis of the plant parts using disc-diffusion method showed ten (10mg/ml) MIC concentration for aqueous extract of the leaves showed no activity, while root decoction inhibited only Salmonella typhi (14.00+0.47mm). Methanolic crude extracts of the leaves (UMLc) (400µg) exhibited antibacterial effects on all tested organisms, higher for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (23.67+ 0.27mm) than gentamycin(10µg) control (21.33+ 0.72) mm, while its 10-1 (40mg) dilution was active against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Only crude n-hexane leaf extract (UNLc) was active for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (13.00 + 0.47mm). Crude methanolic extract of the roots UMRc(400µg) was active against all tested bacteria and clearance for Proteus vulgaris (23.33±0.54mm) was greater than that in both controls (ciprofloxacin (5 µg) (22.33±0.72 mm) and (gentamycin 10µg) (16.67±0.72mm).UNRchad activity against S. aureus, B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa(25.00 0.47 mm, 22.00 mm, and 12.67 0.27mm), while its 10-¹ dilution (40mg) had effects on Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus (11.00 0.82mm, 13 0.47mm) only. The 10-2 (4µg) dilutions of (UMR and UNR) had no activity. Comparison of inhibition size between UML (20.33+ 0.27mm) and UMR (23.33+ 0.54mm)against Proteus vulgaris was significantly greater than inhibition size of gentamycin(10µg) (16.67+ 0.72) p&lt;0.05.Activity of UML against Pseudomonas aeruginosa(23.67+ 0.27mm) was comparable to both ciprofloxacin (25.33+ 1.15mm) and gentamycin (21.33+ 0.72mm) p&gt;0.05.Aqueous extracts of Uvaria chamae roots could be modified and harnessed for eradicating Salmonella typhi, UMLc and UMR for Proteus vulgaris and UML for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Uvaria chamae crude and diluted extracts of both parts are potential future antibiotics.

Genetic Variability and Molecular Diversity Analysis in Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.)

Background: Turmeric is an age old herbaceous plant belonging to the family Zingiberaceae growing in Tropical Africa and India with huge national and international demands. Conventionally, turmeric accessions are characterized using morphological and agronomical traits but less work is done in molecular characterization which is needed for thorough trait identification. Methods: The investigation was carried out during Kharif 2016-17 and comprised of thirty diverse genotypes of turmeric analyzed for genetic variability and molecular diversity which were evaluated in randomized block design with two replications. Fresh tender leaves were used to isolate DNA and PCR was performed with 9 SSR markers. Result: The values of phenotypic coefficient of variation were slightly higher than genotypic coefficient of variation. Highest heritability was observed for days to maturity, genetic advance was observed highest for green rhizome yield. Out of 9 SSR markers, primer pair 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 were reported to exhibit 100% polymorphism, whereas; in terms of PIC, primer pairs 6 and 9 were found to be highly efficient ones. The similarity coefficient ranged from 0.44 to 1.00 and dendogram categorized the 30 genotypes into two main clusters.

GENETIC BARCODING AND BOTANICAL STUDIES ON POTHOS SCANDENS L. LEAVES-AN EXTRA-PHARMACOPOEIAL DRUG OF AYURVEDA

Objective: This study was undertaken to carry out genetic barcoding, pharmacognostical and phytochemical studies on leaves of Pothos scandens L. belonging to the family Araceae. Methods: P. scandens, was collected from Cochin, Kerala, during the month of August 2019. Its leaves were examined for pharmacognostical characters and physicochemical, qualitative analysis and HPTLC studies was carried out following standard protocols recommended by the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Genetic barcoding of the fresh tender leaves samples was carried out through following standard methods. Results: Leaves are simple, alternate, broadly winged petiole. Transverse section through winged petiole portion showed U-shaped, epidermal cell along with cluster crystals. Transverse section through midrib boat-shaped structure, mesophyll undifferentiated, consist parenchyma cell, epidermis with thick cuticle along with waxy coating. Leaves powder shows green in color and microscopy reveals the presence of prismatic crystals, raphides, fibres, acicular crystals and monocot type 1 stomata. The plant is identified as Pothos scandens based on sequence homology and phylogenic analysis. Qualitative results show the presence of carbohydrates, protein, alkaloids and tannins. HPTLC profile shows 7 spots at both short UV and long UV and ferulic acid and kaempferol were identified through quantitative HPTLC. Conclusion: Pothos scandens is a climber with simple, alternate leaves. Acicular crystals and raphides, mucilaginous cavities, undifferentiated mesophyll are key characters of the identification of its leaf. DNA Barcoding results helps in correct identification of Pothos scandens. The results obtained from the phytochemical study will be helpful in the determination of the strength of purity and also for further standardization of the plant.

Genetic Variability for Pod Yield and Component Traits in Sugar Snaps (Pisum sativum var. saccharatum)

Background: Edible podded pea is an oriental vegetable crop which shares the cultivation pattern with the garden pea. Fresh tender pods lacking parchment layer are consumed whole like beans. It is a newly introduced crop in India and therefore, it would be imperative to identify the most promising genotypes vis-à-vis traits of interest, those contributing towards maximization of yield. The present investigation was, therefore, planned to assess the genetic parameters of variability for pod yield and related horticultural traits in order to identify the most promising edible pod pea genotypesMethods: Thirty six genotypes comprising of 29 F7 advanced breeding lines and nine lines from different institutes including three checks namely, ‘Arka Apoorva’, ‘Arka Sampoorna’ and ‘Mithi Phali’ were evaluated in randomized complete block design over three replications during winters 2016-2017 at C.S.K. Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur for pod yield and related horticultural traits.Result: Sufficient genetic variability was observed for all morphological and yield contributing attributes. The magnitude of phenotypic (PCV) and genotypic (GCV) coefficients of variation were high for pod yield while branches per plant, internodal length, harvest duration and pods per plant showed high PCV and moderate GCV. High heritability along with high genetic advance was observed for internodal length, plant height, average pod weight and pod yield per plant indicating the importance of additive gene action. Pod yield per plant revealed positive correlation at both phenotypic and genotypic levels with pods per plant, average pod weight, pod length and pod breadth. Pods per plant and average pod weight at both phenotypic and genotypic levels had maximum positive direct and indirect effects to the total association of component traits suggesting the importance of these traits towards pod yield.

PHARMACOGNOSTICAL GENETIC BARCODING AND PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS ON LEAVES OF DALBERGIA VOLUBILIS ROXB.–AN EXTRA PHARMACOPOEIAL DRUG

Objective: The leaves of Biraskala have been reported for its ethnomedicinal claims for the management of aphthae, heart pain, menorrhagia and post-partum problem. Botanically it has been identified as Dalbergia volubilis Roxb. This research article overcomes the lacuna and explores the anatomical, Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) barcoding and preliminary phytochemical analysis including High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC).Methods: After proper authentication, leaves were exposed to macroscopy, microscopy and micrometric analysis and physicochemical, qualitative, quantitative and HPTLC study as per of Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API). DNA barcoding of the fresh tender leaves samples were carried out following standard methods.Results: Macroscopically leaves are compound, unipinnate, imparipinnate, rachis base pulvinus, leaflets 11-13. Microscopy of T. S. of rachis resembles anatomical structure of stem. Schematic outline of T. S. of petiolule is circular in shape with single layer epidermis is followed by ground tissue and centrally located vascular bundle. Schematic outline of T. S. of leaflet is bulged in the center and the extending arms of lamina are linear. Surface study reveals stomatal index to be 33.33. The genetic barcoding confirms the species D. volubilis. Loss on drying was found to be 8.78±0.57. HPTLC results shows 6 peaks and 7 peaks at 254 and 366 nm.Conclusion: D. volubilis, is a woody climbing unarmed inland shrub with stipules modified into hook and imparipinnately unipinnate compound leaves, are the key field identification character of the plant. Typical microscopical characteristic are presence of solitary crystal mostly embedded in sheath surrounding the vascular bundle and paracyctic type of stomata.

Development of Region Specific Hybrid Goat and their Performance Evaluation under High Altitude Condition

&lt;p&gt;Goat meat (chevon) comprises an important source of protein to provide essential amino acids in addition to other meat and plant sources of proteins. Therefore, demands for chevon are huge from civil and defence sector in this region. However, there is limited availability of fresh tender chevon in Ladakh region round the year. Hence, there was a need of augmenting local availability of fresh goat meat by developing animal technology for fast growing region-specific crossbred goat for meat purpose that can efficiently perform under adverse climatic conditions prevailing in this region. The present crossbred goat was developed by using mixing genes of adaptive and meat traits through cross breeding between local goats (Changthangi and Gaddi breeds of goats) and Sirohi/Black Bengal goats. To develop this technology, we introduced Black Bengal and Sirohi from plain areas and native breed of goats viz. Gaddi and Changthangi goats for further adaptation and growth performance studies at Leh-Ladakh. After initial studies goats were divided into high altitude resistant/adapted and susceptible groups. High altitude resistant/adapted goats were taken for further cross breeding and pure breeding. All the kids produced out of this breeding were studied for physiological responses, growth performance, and blood biochemical parameters to know their adaptive and growth performance at high altitude. Crossbred kids of Sirohi ♂/Black Bengal ♂ X Changthangi ♀ had significantly (P&amp;lt;0.05) higher weight gain, adaptive physiological responses and blood biochemicals level as compared to exotic pure bred and other cross bred kids. These crossbred kids attained market weight faster than local as well as breeds from plain areas (Sirohi and Black Bengal goats). Average meat yield is 7-10 kg per adult crossbred goat if slaughtered at 9-12 month age. These cross bred (broiler goat) may be reared at Leh-Ladakh for meat purpose. Hence, this animal technology may help in increasing of fresh goat meat (chevon) supply to meet army’s and civil requirements in Leh-Ladakh.&lt;/p&gt;

Effect of methanol, n-hexane and aqueous extract of &lt;i&gt;Irvingia gabonensis&lt;/i&gt; leaf on castor oil-induced diarrhoea in albino rats

Bush mango leaf (Irvingia gabonensis) is commonly used locally to treat diarrhoea. The present study evaluated the anti-diarrhoea effect of this plant extract on albino rats induced with castor oil. Fresh tender leaf of this plant was collected, air-dried, powdered and percolated in n-hexane, methanol and aqueous solvents. Diarrhoea was induced with castor oil on albino rats using standard procedures. The extract (100, 250 and 500 mg/kg) in a dose dependent manner, significantly protected the rat against diarrhoea induced experimentally with castor oil in terms of nature and number of stool droppings within 3 hrs of administration of extract, there was no significant difference when compared with the control drug (Loperamide) (P &gt; 0.05). The study justifies the ethno pharmacological uses of this medicinal plant for treatment of diarrhoeal disease.© 2017 International Formulae Group. All rights reserved.Keywords: Diarrhoea, castor oil, Irvingia gabonensis

Anti-diarrhoeal effects of three Nigerian medicinal plant extracts on &lt;i&gt;E.coli-induced&lt;/i&gt; diarrhea

Pawpaw root (Carica papaya), Guava leaf (Psidium guajava) and Bush Mango leaf (Irvingia gabonensis) are commonly used locally to treat diarrhoea. The present study evaluated the anti-diarrhoeal effects of these plant extracts on E. coli - induced diarrhoea in albino rats. Fresh tender roots and leaves of these plants were collected, air dried, powdered and percolated in n-hexane, Methanol and aqueous solvents. Qualitative phytochemical analysis was done using different standard methods. Diarrhoea was induced with Ecoli in albino rats using standard procedures. Qualitative phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of various phytochemicals like saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, tannins, phytates, oxalates and phenols. The extracts, in a dose dependent manner, significantly protected the rats against diarrhoea induced experimentally by E. coli in terms of the nature of stool passage; there was no significant difference whencompared with the control drug (loperamide) (P&gt; 0.05). Generally, methanol extract of Irvingia gabonensis was more effective at low (100 ml/kg) and high (200 ml/kg) doses. The study justifies the ethno pharmacological uses of these medicinal plants for treatments of diarrhoeal disease.Keywords: Diarrhoea, E. coli, Carica papaya, Psidium guajava, Irvingia gabonensis.

Effect of Ohmic Heating on Polyphenol Oxidase Activity, Electrical and Physicochemical Properties of Fresh Tender Coconut Water

Abstract Effect of ohmic heating on polyphenoloxidase (PPO) enzyme activity and the possible influence on the heating rate,electrical conductivity and physicochemical properties of tender coconut water was investigated in this study. Fresh tender coconut water was ohmically heated at voltage gradients of 15 and 20 V/cm, heating temperatures of 80, 90 and 100 °C and holding times of 0, 1.5 and 3 min. No significant changes were observed in pH, titrable acidity and color values of tender coconut water after ohmic heating. Increasing the voltage gradient from 15 to 20 V/cm and holding time from 0 to 3 min decreased the PPO activity significantly (p≤0.01) in tender coconut water. Tender coconut water heated at 80 °C at 20 V/cm for the holding time of 3 min showed the minimum residual PPO activity of 30.55±0.92 % and pink discoloration was retarded up to 7 days when stored at room temperature.