Pongamia Research Articles

Thermal, Physical, and Electrical Characterization of Millettia Pinnata Leaf Powder, Alumina, Glass Sheet, Boron Nitride Reinforced Epoxybased Hybrid Composites: An Experimental Scrutiny

Aims and objectives:: The aim of this study was to fabricate epoxy resin-based hybrid composites reinforced with biodegradable Millettia pinnata leaf powder in conjunction with glass sheets, boron nitride, and alumina for the production of printed circuit boards. Method:: For this application, various thermal, physical, and electrical tests were conducted by the authors. The thermal test results showed that the alumina-based epoxy hybrid composite has more thermal stability than the neat epoxy. Moreover, upon adding BN/Alumina, the flame retarding properties of the epoxy hybrid composites improved. We also observed that with the increase in the content of BN and alumina, the thermal conductivity of the hybrid composite was enhanced. From the water absorption tests, the hybrid composite with 6g BN showed the least amount of water consumption. Particularly, adding BN and leaf powder from 2 to 6 g gave better results for the decrease in water absorption, as compared to adding alumina in the epoxy-based hybrid composite. Result:: Lastly, from the electric tests, we observed that with the increase in frequencies, the dielectric constant of the hybrid composite decreases. At a lower frequency range, the hybrid composite having 2g of BN and millettia pinnata leaf powder shows the lowest dielectric constant, whereas, at a higher frequency range, 2g of alumina and millettia pinnata leaf powder shows the lowest dielectric constant. Conclusion:: We predict that the results reported in this investigation will aid in accelerating the engineering applications of epoxy resin-based hybrid composite materials and help patent the material compositions for specific purposes.

Investigation of waste LDPE with Pongamia pinnata seed for sustainable resource recovery: Thermodynamics, Kinetics and artificial neural network modeling for co-pyrolysis potential

Pyrolysis conversion offers the advantages of significant waste reduction and potential energy recovery. This work examined the potential of combining plastic and agricultural wastes as pyrolysis feedstocks. The mixture of waste low-density polyethylene and Pongamia pinnata seeds was analysed using differential and thermogravimetric methods. In addition to the Coats-Redfern (CR) method, Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS), Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO), Friedman (FRM), and Kissinger (KN) model-free methods were also applied to calculate the kinetic parameters. The apparent activation energy (Ea) calculation demonstrated that the co-pyrolysis conversion required Ea values of 125–154 kJ mol−1. The artificial neural network (ANN) model was considered to validate thermogravimetric data. The R2 values were near unity in training, validation, and testing conditions, with the minimum possible value for mean square error obtained for the considered heating rates. The Pongamia pinnata seeds and waste plastic mixture could surely be utilized to lessen environmental degradation, add value to leftover seeds and waste low-density polyethylene by extracting fuel for transportation and other commercial activities, and produce industrial chemicals, as found through the kinetic modelling, thermodynamic parameters, and ANN modelling.

A Review of the Medicinal Value and Chemical Composition of Flavonoids from Pongamia Pinnata: Recent Work in Drug Advancement and Therapeutics

Abstract: Traditional medicine in many countries, including those where Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierreis grown, uses the plant for a wide variety of purposes, including the treatment of piles, skin problems, and wounds. The objective of the present study was to discuss the medicinal value and chemical composition of flavonoids obtained from P. pinnata. All parts of the plant contain several phytoconstituents responsible for biological activity. These compounds include numerous types of flavonoid derivatives, such as flavones and flavans, as well as terpenes, steroids, and fatty acids. The information required about the plant and advancement in therapeutics was gathered from Pubmed, ScienceDirect and Cochrane Library. Many different types of biological activity, including antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic properties, have been observed in plant products from this species in pharmacological research. However, more research into the plant's phytochemical profile and the complicated pharmacological effects is required. This is because our current understanding of the plant's chemical ingredients and the methods by which they exhibit certain biological activities is limited. Thus, information regarding active constituents is required to develop novel therapeutics and additional research on the toxicity of the other chemicals identified from this plant is necessary.

Efficient ROS Scavenging Improves the Growth and Yield in Black Gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) after Seed Priming and Treatment using Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles with Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre Leaf Extract

Efficient ROS Scavenging Improves the Growth and Yield in Black Gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) after Seed Priming and Treatment using Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles with Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre Leaf Extract

Folk Knowledge and Perceptions about the Use of Wild Fruits and Vegetables-Cross-Cultural Knowledge in the Pipli Pahar Reserved Forest of Okara, Pakistan.

Wild fruits and vegetables (WFVs) have been vital to local communities for centuries and make an important contribution to daily life and income. However, traditional knowledge of the use of wild fruits is at risk of being lost due to inadequate documentation. This study aimed to secure this knowledge through intermittent field visits and a semi-structured questionnaire. Using various ethnobotanical data analysis tools and SPSS (IBM 25), this study identified 65 WFV species (52 genera and 29 families). These species, mostly consumed as vegetables (49%) or fruits (43%), were predominantly herbaceous (48%) in wild and semi-wild habitats (67%). 20 WFVs were known to local communities (highest RFC), Phoenix sylvestris stood out as the most utilized species (highest UV). Surprisingly, only 23% of the WFVs were sold at markets. The survey identified 21 unique WFVs that are rarely documented for human consumption in Pakistan (e.g., Ehretia obtusifolia, Euploca strigosa, Brassica juncea, Cleome brachycarpa, Gymnosporia royleana, Cucumis maderaspatanus, Croton bonplandianus, Euphorbia prostrata, Vachellia nilotica, Pongamia pinnata, Grewia asiatica, Malvastrum coromandelianum, Morus serrata, Argemone mexicana, Bambusa vulgaris, Echinochloa colonum, Solanum virginianum, Physalis angulata, Withania somnifera, Zygophyllum creticum, and Peganum harmala), as well as 14 novel uses and five novel edible parts. Despite their ecological importance, the use of WFVs has declined because local people are unaware of their cultural and economic value. Preservation of traditional knowledge through education on conservation and utilization could boost economies and livelihoods in this and similar areas worldwide.

Palatability of Cuscus (Spilocuscus maculatus) to the Combinations of Pellet Feed Based on Organic Value

Cuscus (Spilocuscus maculatus) in captivity that were given a dominant fruit diet needed additional feed from their natural habitat because of the higher nutritional potential and fiber components. This study aims to determine the palatability of cuscus to the feed based on organic value. An experimental method was used, consisting of 4 treatment groups: 100% banana (Musa paradisiaca) as control, 70% banana mixed with 30% matoa (Pometia pinnata) leaves, 70% banana mixed with 30% ironwood (Pongamia pinnata) leaves, and 70% banana mixed with 30% crickets (Gryllus bimaculatus). The results showed that banana was the most preferred feed ingredient, either alone or as a supplementary feed mixture. In terms of quantity, its mixture with matoa leaves had a higher consumption level than ironwood leaves and crickets. The consumption level of organic matter was higher in the treatment with 100% banana than in other treatments. This information will help support ex-situ and in-situ conservation programs formulated by the government and other parties, including the community. Keywords: cuscus, feed, organic matter, palatability, Spilocuscus maculatus

Comparative Bioactivity Analysis of Green-Synthesized Metal (Cobalt, Copper, and Selenium) Nanoparticles.

Aim This study involves synthesizing metal nanoparticles (NPs) via the green synthesis method using Millettia pinnata leaf, Acacia auriculiformis bark, and Citrus sinensis peel and comparatively evaluating their antibacterial activity in vitro through the analysis of cobalt oxide NPs (CoNPs), copper NPs (CuNPs), and selenium NPs (SeNPs). This research contributes to eco-friendly approaches for producing functional nanomaterials with potential applications in medicine and environmental remediation. Materials and methods The metal NPs were synthesized using M. pinnata leaf, A. auriculiformis bark, and C. sinensis peel. These leaf extracts act as self-reducing and stabilizing agents. The antibacterial activity was assessed by the well diffusion method. Cultures of pathogenic bacteria species such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were prepared. NPs were applied to the culture, and zones of inhibition (ZOIs) were measured. The data were statistically analyzed to compare the antibacterial efficacy of the different NPs. Results The successfully synthesized CoNPs, CuNPs, and SeNPs showed distinctive phytochemical properties. CoNPs exhibited the highest ZOI against most bacterial strains, with CuNPs and SeNPs following. CoNPs consistently showed superior performance compared to CuNPs and SeNPs. Conclusion Our study analyzed the bioactivity of metal NPs produced using green synthesis with plant extracts. CoNPs have shown superior antibacterial effectiveness against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria when compared to CuNPs and SeNPs. This may be due to their larger surface area, smaller size, unique electrical, magnetic, and catalytic properties, as well as their improved contact with the bacterial cell wall and membrane.

Variation among family of Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre for oil content and seedling growth

Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre is a multipurpose tree species that produces non-edible seeds. Pongamia oil has been recognized as a viable source of oil for the burgeoning biofuel industry. The economic feasibility of Pongamia depends on the oil content of the seed. Meanwhile, information on variation among families (parent tree) of seedlings grown is also necessary to increase plant productivity besides the oil content. This study aims to determine the variation among families of Pongamia oil content and seedling growth (generative and vegetative propagation). The seeds were analysed using 48 families for oil content analysis by solvent extraction, 50 families for seedling growth analysis (generative), and 19 families for vegetative. The result showed a significant variation in crude oil content among the families. Oil production varied from 26.61 to 44.68%. Variations among families were also found in seedling growth performance for both generative and vegetative propagation, with an average survival rate up to 75%. The information is essential for the tree improvement program to produce genetically improved seeds of Pongamia for biofuel and land restoration in Indonesia.

Karanjin, A Promising Bioactive Compound Possessing Anti-cancer Activity against Experimental Model of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Cells.

The aim of this study is to isolate the Millettia pinnata (Karanj) leaf extract for pure compound with anticancer properties and to study the molecular target of the isolates in non-small cell lung cancer cell lines. In our earlier research Millettia pinnata leaf extract has demonstrated potential anticancer activities. Thus, in pursuit of the bioactive compounds, the most potential active extract from our previous study was purified. Furthermore, the anticancer properties of the isolated compound karanjin was studied and aimed for apoptosis and restraining growth. A novel method was developed through column chromatography for isolation and purification of the compound karanjin from leaf chloroform extract. The purified component was then characterised using FTIR, mass spectrometry, and NMR. An MTT-based cytotoxicity assay was used to analyse cell cytotoxicity, whereas fluorescence staining was used for apoptosis and reactive oxygen species inhibition quantification. Furthermore, the real-time PCR assay was used to determine the molecular mechanism of action in cells causing cytotoxicity induced by karanjin dosing. The anticancer activity of karanjin in A549 cell line exhibited prominent activity revealing IC50 value of 4.85 μM. Conferring the predicted molecular pathway study, karanjin restrains the proliferation of cancer cells through apoptosis, which is controlled by extrinsic pathway proteins FAS/FADD/Caspases 8/3/9. Downregulation of KRAS and dependent gene expression also stopped cell proliferation. Karanjin has been identified as a compound with potential effect in non-small cell lung cancer cells. Molecular mechanism for apoptosis and inhibition of reactive oxygen species induced through H2O2 were observed, concluding karanjin have medicinal and antioxidant properties.

Optimal Enzyme-Assisted Extraction of Phenolics from Leaves of Pongamia pinnata via Response Surface Methodology and Artificial Neural Networking.

This research work seeks to evaluate the impact of selected enzyme complexes on the optimised release of phenolics from leaves of Pongamia pinnata. After preliminary solvent extraction, the P. pinnata leaf extract was subjected to enzymatic treatment, using enzyme cocktails such as kemzyme dry-plus, natuzyme, and zympex-014. It was noticed that zympex-014 had a greater extract yield (28.0%) than kemzyme dry-plus (17.0%) and natuzyme (18.0%). Based on the better outcomes, zympex-014-based extract values were subsequently applied to several RSM parameters. The selected model is suggested to be significant by the F value (12.50) and R2 value (0.9669). The applicability of the ANN model was shown by how closely the projected values from the ANN were to the experimental values. In terms of total phenolic contents (18.61 mg GAE/g), total flavonoid contents (12.56 mg CE/g), and DPPH test (IC50) (6.5 g/mL), antioxidant activities also shown significant findings. SEM analysis also revealed that the cell walls were damaged during enzymatic hydrolysis, as opposed to non-hydrolysed material. Using GC-MS, five potent phenolic compounds were identified in P. pinnata extract. According to the findings of this study, the recovery of phenolic bioactives and subsequent increase in the antioxidant capacity of P. pinnata leaf extract were both positively impacted by the optimisation approaches suggested, including the use of zympex-014.

Unveiling coastal diversity: An inventory and conservation report of beach forest flora of Surigao del Sur, Philippines

Abstract. Ramos GB, Panduyos JB, Caray RE, Bacquial LS. 2024. Unveiling coastal diversity: An inventory and conservation report of beach forest flora of Surigao del Sur, Philippines. Biodiversitas 25: 421-430. Coastal greenbelts, comprise mangroves and beach forest trees, are pivotal in disaster mitigation and climate change resilience. Despite the evident importance of these coastal ecosystems, they are often overlooked in research due to a lack of comprehensive data on species community structure and their broader ecological importance. Hence, this present study was conducted to document beach forests composition and conservation status in selected coastal municipalities of Surigao del Sur, Philippines. The study was conducted in five sampling locations, namely, La Paz, Bil-at, Balibadon, Poblacion Cagwait and Arangasa Island. At each sampling location, a 2 km transect line, parallel to the beach’s shoreline, was established having a 100 square meter sampling plots spaced 50m apart. Beach species frequency counts, percentages, and diversity indices were quantified. The study documented 27 beach forest species belonging to 21 families and 25 genera with the dominant species being Crinum asiaticum, Cocos nucifera, Millettia pinnata, Timonius compressicaulis, and Terminalia catappa. Both Arangasa Island and La Paz beach forests have the highest species diversity (H’ = 2.04); however, Cagwait has the highest species richness (Margalef = 2.34). This study has potential to significantly contribute in addressing existing data gap regarding beach forest species in the Philippines. With the looming threat of extinction due to infrastructural development and anthropogenic activities, the study's outcomes stand as an urgent call to action; thus, a collaborative endeavor of Local Government Units, academicians, and community for conservation and protection before these species succumb to the threat of extinction.

Nature Based Solutions: Carbon Sequestration by Standing Trees in Urban Parks and Gardens of Katni City in Madhya Pradesh, India

Aims: This study aims at estimating contribution of urban Parks and gardens by carbon sequestration and suggests suitable strategies that can be helpful in reducing climate change impacts in urban centres. The challenges of climate change can be efficiently overcome by the storage of carbon in terrestrial carbon sinks viz. plants, plant products and soils for longer periods. Selection of appropriate trees can help mitigate climate impact.
 Study Design: Non-destructive sampling method of biomass estimation was used to measure to GBH of individual trees.
 Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Katni city, Madhya Pradesh in 2020.
 Methodology: The parks and gardens in Katni were categorized into three groups based on their sizes: (A) large parks/gardens, (B) medium parks/gardens, and (C) small parks/gardens. The height of the trees was estimated using a relascope, while the girth classes of the trees were measured at different heights, including the basal area at Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) and at a 2-meter height.
 Results: 26 parks were systematically selected from a total of 62, encompassing small, medium, and large-sized areas, representing 42% of the city's green cover. The sampled parks sequestered 340 tons of carbon, projecting an annual sequestration of 414 tons by all parks combined. Among the planted trees in these spaces were (Hyophorbe lagenicaulis), Fishtailed palm (Carota urens) Ashok (Polyalthia longifolia), Neem (Azardirachta indica), Amaltas (Cassia fistula), Champa (Magnolia champaca), Saptaparni (Alstonia scholaris), etc. Furthermore, the study identified ten suitable tree species—Bargad (Ficus benghalensis), Gulmohar (Delonix regia), Karanj (Millettia pinnata), Kassod (Cassia siamea), Mahaneem (Ailanthus excelsa), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Umar (Ficus racemosa), Peepal (Ficus religiosa), Peltaforum (Peltophorum pterocarpum) and Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo) ideal for planting in parks for climate mitigation. The study advocates for widespread planting of these identified indigenous species in urban areas to enhance environmental quality and contribute significantly to climate improvement efforts.
 Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the nature of carbon sequestration in urban green spaces, stressing the need for selection of tree species based on multiple criteria discussed in the paper. Holistic approaches in environmental management and conservation will help mitigate climate impact.

Phytochemical Analysis and Antimicrobial Activity of Pongamia Pinnata: A Comprehensive Study

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health challenge, exacerbated by the misuse of antimicrobial agents. With the rising prevalence of AMR in various plant and animal pathogens, there is an urgent need to explore alternative therapeutic options. Plant extracts, historically utilized for disease treatment, offer a promising avenue. Pongamia pinnata, also known as Indian Karanja, is notable for its rich phytochemical content and has been the subject of recent scientific interest. Objective: The primary aim of this study is to investigate the antimicrobial efficacy of P. pinnata extracts, prepared using the Ultrasonic Assisted Extraction (UAE) method, against a range of bacterial and fungal species known to exhibit AMR. Methods: In this study, an experimental laboratory design was utilized to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of Pongamia pinnata. Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of P. pinnata were prepared and subjected to biochemical analysis to identify the spectrum of phytochemicals present. The antimicrobial activity of these extracts was then assessed using the well-diffusion method against selected bacterial and fungal pathogens. Results: Both aqueous and alcoholic extracts of P. pinnata demonstrated significant antimicrobial effects against the tested microbial species. The study highlights the potent antimicrobial properties of P. pinnata, attributed to its diverse phytochemical composition. Conclusion: The findings of this study underscore P. pinnata as a valuable source of natural antimicrobial agents. Its efficacy against AMR pathogens suggests its potential application in the development of new treatments for infectious diseases. P. pinnata holds promise for medicinal use, particularly in contexts where conventional antibiotics are ineffective.

Evaluation of tree species using Air Pollution Tolerance Index for urban landscaping in Delhi

Air pollution which negatively impacts both human health and the environment is a mountainous challenge before policymakers and city planners in urban areas. Urban landscaping with effective pollution-combating tree species is one of the soundest strategies to mitigate pollution adversaries. However, not all tree species are equally suitable for urban environments due to varying levels of tolerance to air pollution. This study has been designed to evaluate the physiological and biochemical responses of seven commonly occurring tree species in the Talkatora garden (TG) and Income Tax Office (ITO) representing non-polluted and polluted locations in Delhi, respectively applying Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI). The current research study was carried out during 2021–22 at the Division of Floriculture and Landscaping, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. In tree species understudy, it was recorded that the pH of leaf extract, total chlorophyll, and relative water content was lower in the winter season than summer season except for the ascorbic acid. Ficus religiosa with the highest APTI value (23.23) followed by Pongamia pinnata (20.85) were found most tolerant tree species to air pollution in Delhi during the winter season at the polluted (ITO) and non-polluted (TG) location respectively with a reverse trend for the summer season. Polyalthia longifolia was found most sensitive (bioindicator plant) to air pollution among the seven trees under study owing to the lowest APTI values (11.14 and 12.58) across the seasons at non-polluted (TG) and polluted (ITO) locations respectively. Furthermore, Ficus religiosa with the highest APTI across the locations and seasons was assessed as the best performer, hence, could be the most efficient option for landscaping in polluted and non-polluted areas.

Case Report: Management of Dadru Kushtha (Tinea Corporis) by Shamana Chikits

Background Skin disorders are often seen as a result of a change in lifestyle, a lack of physical activity, and inadequate nutrition. Hygiene, emotional stress, and poor eating habits are also factors to consider. Kushta is the term used in Ayurveda to describe all skin disorders which is classified as Mahakushtha (major skin disorders) and Kshudrakushtha (minor skin disorders). Dadrukushta is a type of kshudrakushta that is commonly seen in clinical practice. In Ayurveda, the signs of dadrukushta are same as those of Tinea corporis, which is explained in modern science. Tinea corporis has a wide range of clinical symptoms that are mostly dependent on the infective organisms. By treating the condition with Ayurveda’s treatment therapy produces long term Outcomes. Aim & Objectives Aim of this contemporary study was to assess how Ayurvedic modality shamana chikitsa works on Dadrukushta. Case A 27 year old male patient approached to Kayachikitsa OPD with complaints of blackish lesions with raised borders and itching over the chest and back (upper) region for 15 days having disturbed sleep which undergone treatment of shamanachikitsa (palliative care). Dadrukushta (Tinea corporis) can be dealt with shamana karma (palliative care) using internally Gandhakrasayan (Moringa ovalifolia prepared from sulphur), Panchtiktaghrita (Pancha means five, Tikta means bitter in taste. Tikta Rasapradhan Dravyas are collectively called as Panchatikta Dravyas. The five Dravyas are Azadirachta indica (Neem), Trichosanthes dioica (Patola), Solanum xanthocarpum (Kantakari), Tinofpora cordifolia (Guduchi) and Adhatoda vasica (Adulsa), fungiwin cream, Karanjataila (Pongamia pinnata oil tree), S-kin powder for local application for 45 days. Results The Gradation Score was 8 before treatment, after 45 days it was 0. The patient in this case study experienced relief in the symptoms. Conclusions The patient obtained better results by Shamanachikitsa.

Investigating the phenology and interactions of competitive plant species co-occurring with invasive Lantana camara in Indian Himalayan Region

Invasive plant species are considered one of the significant drivers of habitat loss, leading to biodiversity loss. They have also been observed to alter the local ecology, resulting in a decline of native flora. The management of invasive species is widely recognised as one of the most severe challenges to biodiversity conservation. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) considers Lantana camara, as one of the ten worst weeds. Over time, native and indigenous species may evolve to co-exist or compete with invasive species, reducing invader fitness. It is observed that species competition fluctuates throughout environmental gradients, life phases, and abundances. Hence, competition outcome is very context-dependent. To address this challenge, we conducted a comprehensive study in three phases: we identified native species coexisting with Lantana in their natural habitats in the Doon Valley (Phase I) and documented the phenotypic traits of selected coexisting species using the Landmark BBCH (Biologische Bun-desantalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie) scale, revealing the phenological growth patterns of selected co-existing species (Phase II). This was followed by conducting pot (Phase IIIa) and field (Phase IIIb) experiments to study the interactions between them. Notably, Justicia adhatoda, Broussonetia papyrifera, Pongamia pinnata, Urtica dioica and Bauhinia variegata demonstrated promising results in both pot and field conditions. Furthermore, after the mechanical removal of Lantana and prior to the plantation in the field experiments, four native grass species were introduced using the seed ball method. Among these, Pennisetum pedicellatum and Sorghum halpense exhibited prompt regeneration and effectively colonised the field, densely covering the cleared area. The study provides a comprehensive management plan for the restoration of Lantana affected areas through competition using native species. This study utilizes phenological assessment for native plant selection using reclamation from native grasses and proposes a management plan for combating invasive Lantana.

Characterization and in-vitro plant-based control of hindgut bacteria isolated from Odontotermes obesus Rambur (Termitidae) and Heterotermes indicola Wasmann (Rhinotermitidae).

Termites cause a serious menace to wooden structures all over the world. They rely mostly on entozoic fauna residing in their hindgut for the digestion of cellulosic and hemicellulosic materials. One of the ways to control termites is through their gut symbionts. The present study was designed to characterize the hindgut bacteria isolated from Odontotermes obesus and Heterotermes indicola. Furthermore, the growth inhibitory effect of eight tropical plant extracts was investigated to find out potential control agents for these bacterial isolates. The characterization of bacteria was carried out based on their morphology, Gram staining, biochemical and amplification of 16SrRNA gene. Amplified products were sequenced to confirm their relationship with bacterial isolates from termites of other regions. The growth inhibitory effect of ethanolic leaf extracts of eight plants was evaluated in an invitro agar well diffusion method. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis of the most effective plant was carried out to learn about bioactive agents. The results confirmed the presence of five bacteria from each termite species. The Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, and Lysinibacillus fusiformis were common to both termites whereas Lysinibacillus xylanilyticus and Lysinibacillus macrolides were found in O. obesus only and H. indicola harbor Bacillus subtilis and Shigella sonnei in addition to common three ones. Among the plant extracts of Carica papaya, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Osmium basilicum, Grevillea robusta, Eucalyptus globulus, Pongamia pinnata, Mentha longifolia, and Melia azedarach, the G. robusta > E. camaldulensis > O. basilicum were found to have growth inhibitory effects with increasing concentrations from 100 to 2000 µg/mL. The biodiversity of the bacterial fauna is important for the biological control of termites. Leaf extracts of these medicinal plants can be used to control termite infestation in an environment-friendly manner to save huge economic loss.

Protective Effect of Mucoadhesive Gel of Phytosterol of Pongamia glabra Against Arecoline-Induced OSMF Rats

Objective Isolation and interpretation of phytosterol from stem bark of Pongamia glabra P. pinnata Vent. to develop and characterize mucoadhesive gel of the isolated phytosterol and histopathological studies of extract and mucoadhesive gel on arecoline induced oral submucosa fibrosis OSMF in rats.Methods Petroleum ether extract of stem bark was used for phytochemical investigation and the isolated phytosterol was characterized spectroscopically. Mucoadhesive gel of the isolated phytosterol PGS was developed and evaluated for physicochemical properties. Histopathological studies of arecoline induced OSMF rats at the end of four months induction and four months treatment with the extract and the gel of PGS were carried out and the resultant changes in body weight were noted during the induction and the treatment. Results Spectroscopic studies of the isolated phytosterol PGS identified it as ldquostigmasterolrdquo. The formulated gel exhibited good homogeneity with no grittiness good extrudability and mucoadhesive strength optimum pH uniform drug content low viscosity and 86-88 cumulative drug release property. Histopathological study of arecoline HBr induced OSMF rats at the end of 4th month induction exhibited white patches on buccal submucosa fibrosis and significant P lt0.0001 reduction in body weight. At the end of 4th month treatment with extract of Pongaia glabra and the mucoadhesive gel of PGS epithelium regaining normal thickness and body weight was observed.Conclusion Formulated mucoadhesive gel of PGS with good physicochemical pharmaceutical properties was found to reduce arecoline induced oral submucosa fibrosis by dissolving 90 of collagen deposition at the end of four months treatment.

Evaluation of air quality through various bioparameters near Valankulam lake, Coimbatore

Road and bridge construction close to lakes generates a lot of dust, which pollutes the air in that area. This is about the negative effects of vegetation activities. Some have the tolerance capacity, while others do not, leading to adverse effects. The study focuses on the air pollution tolerance index (APTI) of trees near Valankulam Lake in Coimbatore. Physiological and biochemical factors were employed to determine the APTI. The leaves of 19 trees were collected for the study and tested for ascorbic acid, total chlorophyll concentration, leaf pH, and relative water content. Albizzia lebbeck was found to have the highest tolerance value (88.81), followed by Ficus religiosa, Bougainvillaea spectabilis, Nerium oleander, Ricinus communis, Thevetia peruviana, Azadirachta indica and Tamarindus indica.  Tectona grandis (8.01) is the most vulnerable to pollution, followed by Pongamia pinnata, Vitex negundo and Tecoma stans. According to the findings, the tolerant species can serve as a source, while the sensitive plants serve as a signal of pollution.

Vegetation Dynamics of Coastal Mangrove Forest

In the man-made coastal forest, the vegetation dynamics of protected and unprotected coastal forests have been identified. This study examined and quantified the impacts of grazing on coastal vegetation. The investigation was conducted between January 2013 and December 2020. In a transect line, fifty-two distinct tree, herb, and shrub species were found in unprotected coastal areas, and 36 were found in protected areas. After eight years, the number of saplings (p=0.031), poles (p=0.030), and total (p=0.026) (seedling, sapling, and pole) regeneration were substantially different between protected and unprotected areas. The current study found no significant differences in regeneration and tree density after one and five years of establishing the protected zones. The greatest number of natural poles were found in protected and unprotected areas from 2017 to 2020. The changes in tree density were considerable (p=0.03) after eight years. From 2014 to 2017, the highest rate of seedling recruitment was 36622 to 43439 individuals observed in protected and unprotected areas. In protected areas, Excoecaria agallocha L. and Avicinnia officinalis L. had the most extensive regeneration coverage, and nine species of seedlings, saplings, and poles were seen in 2013 protected areas. After 8 years, E. agallocha had a 47.01% while Phoenix paludosa Roxb. had a 30.81% success rate. In 2020, seedlings of Pongamia pinnata L. (6.6%), Herietiera fomes Buch.-Ham. (5.5%), A. officnalis (5.30%) and the remaining six species were also seen. The species E. agallocha comprised 69.11% of the trees at Soner Char tree density, followed by Sonneratia apetala Buch.-Ham. (23.30%), P. paludosa (8.82%), H. fomes (3.43%), and the remaining two species in 2020. After eight years, the species S. apetala declined by 43.64% and 23.90% in protected and unprotected areas, respectively. The species Phoenix paludosa, H. fomes, A. officinalis, and Dolichandrone spathacea (L.F) Baill. Ex K. Schum. was found to replace S. apetala in protected areas. Grazing affects the natural recruitment stage of saplings and poles and tree stem density in unprotected areas. The observations assume that S. apetala will diminish due to climatic conditions, and E. agallocha will become the main dominating species in coastal areas. J. Asiat. Soc. Bangladesh, Sci. 49(2): 203-224, December 2023