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The article discusses the taxonomic classification and nomenclature of the genus Soda (Dumort.) Fourr. within the family Chenopodiaceae s.str. / Amaranthaceae s.l. The article highlights the debate surrounding the typification of the genus name Salsola and the need for proper taxonomic application. The authors propose conserving the name Soda against the name Sevada, as the former is applicable to a distinct clade within the genus. The article emphasizes the importance of maintaining nomenclatural stability and suggests that the acceptance of their proposal will not eliminate the name Sevada from the nomenclature. [Extracted from the article]

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is a pseudocereal crop, and has been widely cultivated in China with excellent sources of nutrients, amino acids, and vitamins. During the inflorescence emergence stage to the grain-filling stage, Neocamarosporium betae leaf spot and stem necrosis of quinoa (NLSQ) as a new emerging disease was observed in Shanxi Province of China. NLSQ usually infected the leaves and then gradually spread towards to the stems. Typical symptoms included tan to brown lesions and with many black pycnidia, leading to lodging, leaf abscission, and grain unfilling. Based on morphological characteristics, phylogenetic analyses, and pathogenicity tests, the pathogen was identified as N. betae. The morphological characterizations of N. betae from quinoa were pycnidial conidiomata, hyaline conidiogenous cell, and smooth hyaline aseptate conidia. At 2–6 days postinoculation, the typical symptoms induced by inoculations of N. betae on leaves and stems of quinoa. To our knowledge, this study firstly reported that N. betae was the pathogen of NLSQ in China. The findings of this current study will contribute to developing the disease diagnosis and management. • NLSQ was extensively observed in quinoa plantations of Shanxi Province, China. • N. betae isolated from leaf and stem of quinoa, was found to be the novel causal agent of NLSQ. • The pathogen was identified based on microscopic features, multilocus phylogenetic analysis and pathogenicity tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the issue of similar-sounding generic names in the plant taxonomy field. Specifically, it focuses on the names Blackiella Aellen, Blakiella Cuatrec., and Blakella (L.D. Pryor & L.A.S. Johnson ex Brooker) Crisp & L.G. Cook. The authors argue that the names Blackiella and Blakiella are easily confused due to their phonetic similarity, and they propose the need for a new generic name for the South American taxon currently known as Blakiella Cuatrec. Additionally, they suggest that a new generic name should be considered for the group of eucalypts recently segregated as the genus Blakella. The authors request binding decisions from the Nomenclature Committees to address these naming issues. [Extracted from the article]

After a rather turbulent taxonomic history, Dysphanieae (Chenopodioideae, Amaranthaceae) were established to contain five genera, four of which are monospecific (Cycloloma, Neomonolepis, Suckleya, Teloxys) and geographically restricted, and the fifth genus, Dysphania, having a nearly worldwide distribution and comprising ca. 50 species. This study investigates the phylogeny, biogeography and taxonomy of Dysphanieae. We studied specimens from 32 herbaria to infer morphological differences and distribution areas of the species and sampled 121 accessions representing 39 accepted species of the tribe for molecular phylogenetic analyses. The molecular phylogeny tested generic relationships of the tribe and infrageneric relationships of Dysphania on the basis of two plastid DNA markers (atpB‐rbcL spacer, rpl16 intron) and two nuclear ribosomal markers (ETS, ITS) and was also used for an ancestral area reconstruction with BioGeoBEARS. Three of the monospecific genera (Neomonolepis, Suckleya, Teloxys) form a basal grade and appear to be relictual lineages of the tribe, while Cycloloma is nested within Dysphania. The ancestral area reconstruction favors a widespread ancestry for Dysphanieae, and the relictual lineages in Asia (Teloxys) and North America (Neomonolepis, Suckleya) might be explained by a wide distribution across Beringia during the Late Oligocene/Early Miocene. Dysphania likely originated in North America; however, the simultaneous diversification into three major clades, an Asian/African, an American and an Australian/African clade, indicates a widespread ancestor at the crown node of Dysphania. Our taxonomic revision results in four accepted genera in Dysphanieae, Dysphania, Neomonolepis, Suckleya and Teloxys. The sectional subdivision for Dysphania is revised. We subdivide the genus into five sections, D. sect. Adenois (13 spp.), D. sect. Botryoides (10 spp.), D. sect. Dysphania (17 spp.), D. sect. Incisa (2 spp.) and D. sect. Margaritaria (4 spp.); three strongly deviating species remain unplaced and need further attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • β-ecdysone was obtained from an in vitro cultured of Pfaffia glomerata. • The roller bottle system was favourable to the adventitious root of P. glomerata. • Presence of β-ecdysone in culture of P. glomerata means adaptation to the system. • Highest accumulation of β-ecdysone occurred after 8 weeks in a roller bottle system. β-ecdysone is the main compound of commercial interest produced by the roots of Pfaffia glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen, and is used in herbal medicines and dietary supplements. In-vitro root culture facilitates the continuous production of high-quality compounds, and uses sustainable production techniques. Adventitious roots of P. glomerata were cultivated in a roller bottle system and an orbital gyratory system, both in the absence of light. The quantification of β-ecdysone by Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry/Mass Spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) revealed that the highest accumulation of metabolites occurred after 8 weeks in the roller bottle culture system, wherein 1.81 μg of β-ecdysone was recovered from 30 mg of dry root. These results suggest that adventitious root culture in-vitro may be an alternative strategy for β-ecdysone production, and demonstrates the potential use of bioreactors for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de la Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales is the property of Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Fisicas y Naturales and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The purpose of write this paper is to study the genetic variability between and within different Halosylon salicornicum populations in different regions of Saudi arabia Kingdom, using the determination of genetic fingerprint method by Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR). Because this plant highly vulnerable to depletion by humans in all places of existence, it is an economically valuable plant where raft is an important pastoral resource in central and northern Arabia. It also has multiple medical uses. It is a plant that can withstand abiotic stresses such as drought and high temperature, making it suitable for cultivation in marginal lands in arid areas. All of the above was a catalyst for plant characterization using a number of Haloxylon salicornicum samples, collected from different regions of Saudi Arabia to find out the genetic variation of species, genetic diversity in knowing the plant community is an essential step towards the design of programs for plant breeding as well as preserved from extinction. This was done using the Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR). The results showed there were significant differences and molecular differences between plant samples. The average polymorphism between the genetic inputs of the studied Haloxylon salicornicum samples was 53.7%, and this percentage of genetic variability is significant for progress in growth and plant regeneration in the face of unfair practices against it, in addition to adverse environmental conditions in most years. As evidenced by the percentage of matrix similarity. The ISSR results indicate that the genotype between five different regions genotypes ranged from 0.365 to 0.527, indicating that Haloxylon salicornicum is a local plant capable of surviving and adapting to the environmental conditions in Saudi Arabia through the positive change in the genetic makeup of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The two latter species are perennial subshrubs and have hairy leaves, while I C. annua i and I C. songorica i are annuals; all have a 4-lobed perianth. 2013), Linnaeus's concept cannot be associated with any of the currently known species of I Camphorosma i L. Four taxa are accepted in this genus (see Kadereit & Freitag, l.c.): I C. annua i Pall., I C. songorica i Bunge, I C. monspeliaca i L., and I C. lessingii i Litv. This latter name was placed by Linnaeus (l.c. 1753) as synonym of I C. monspeliaca i , which is a perennial subshrub according to the type (lectotype: Herb. [Extracted from the article]

With ca. 300 species of herbs, shrubs and subshrubs adapted to saline or alkaline soils, the evolution of the genus Atriplex is key to understand the development of semi‐arid environments worldwide. Previous phylogenetic analyses of Atriplex, including only a few species from South America, especially in comparison with North American species represented, proposed a North American origin for the South American Atriplex, through more than one dispersal event. Since South America is one of the four centres of Atriplex diversity, with a high number of endemic species, a wider and more representative sampling of this region is essential to understand the origin and evolution of the genus Atriplex in the Americas. We performed a phylogenetic analysis with estimated clade ages and an ancestral range estimation focused on the American species of Atriplex, to identify South American lineages, their relationships with other lineages of the genus (and particularly with North American ones), and to unravel their biogeographical history in the Americas. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted with sequence data from ITS, ETS and atpB‐rbcL spacer markers, using maximum parsimony, Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood approaches. The DEC+J model implemented in BioGeoBEARS was applied in order to infer ancestral ranges. The Americas were colonized by Atriplex in two independent dispersal events: (1) the C4Atriplex from Eurasia or Australia, and (2) the C3Atriplex (represented only by the extant A. chilensis) from Eurasia. The C4 American lineage of Atriplex originated roughly 10.4 Ma (95% HPD = 13.31–7.62 Myr) in South America, where two lineages underwent in situ diversification and evolved sympatrically. North America was colonized by Atriplex from South America; later, one lineage moved from North America to South America. Most of the extant species have arisen in the last 3–4 Myr, in Pliocene–Pleistocene. We detected some South American taxa differing in position between both nuclear and atpB‐rbcL spacer partitions, which could be explained by chloroplast capture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The informally named "aervoid clade" in Amaranthaceae includes ~134 species in five genera: Ptilotus (~120 spp.), Aerva (11 spp.) and the monotypic Nothosaerva, Omegandra, and Kelita. The relationships of the small aervoid genera to the large genus Ptilotus, and relationships between major clades within Ptilotus, are poorly resolved. The aims of this study were to: (1) elucidate relationships between genera and within Ptilotus using a phylogenomic approach; (2) identify morphological characters within each genus to help delimit generic boundaries; and (3) provide an updated taxonomic framework for the aervoids. A well‐supported coding DNA sequence (CDS) phylogeny was constructed for 36 aervoid and 5 outgroup species based on 69 gene sequences derived from assembled whole‐plastid genomes. The CDS tree was used to constrain relationships on a larger phylogeny based on Sanger‐sequenced ITS and matK for 135 taxa, comprising near‐comprehensive sampling within the aervoids. Both datasets were analysed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference. Morphological characters were assessed from herbarium specimens. Our study demonstrates that Aerva is polyphyletic; this is resolved by reinstating Ouret and erecting a new genus, Paraerva. Kelita is found to be deeply nested within Ptilotus and is formally synonymised. The well‐resolved phylogeny of Ptilotus presented here will inform future studies in biogeography and character evolution. A taxonomic treatment is provided for all aervoid genera, and new combinations are made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Triterpene saponins from leaves of red beet were profiled using ESI-MS/MS. • 11 derivatives of oleanolic acid were detected in the leaves of red beet. • Two saponins were detected in red beet for the first time. • Quantification of saponins was performed using UPLC-ESI/MS/MS. • Roots and leaves of red beet differ in total and individual content of saponins. Abstract Triterpene saponins from the leaves of red beet (Beta vulgaris L.) were qualitatively profiled using electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS). Results indicated that red beet leaves contain 11 saponins, including oleanolic acid aglycone and a varying number of sugars plus acetyl or methyl groups. We identified and studied two additional saponins other than the nine reported previously from red beets. Relative quantification was undertaken of saponins in leaves, compared to those in the roots of four cultivars (Egyptian, Forono, Red Sphere, and Round Dark Red). Saponins were quantitated using ultra-performance reverse-phase liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled with ESI-MS/MS. Leaves of Egyptian and Round Dark Red contained higher total amount of saponins than the roots, whereas relatively higher levels of saponins were observed in roots in cultivars Red Sphere and Forono. The differential accumulation of specific triterpene saponins is indicative of spatially differentiated biosynthesis and/or biological function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Amaranth is presently an underutilized crop despite its high content of micronutrients/bioactive phytochemicals and its capacity to thrive in harsh environmental condition. The present study aimed at determining the health benefits of Amaranthus cruentus L. in terms of protection against DNA damage induced by the mycotoxin aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and oxidative stress using comet assay. The antioxidant potential was further investigated using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR) and an ARE/Nrf2 reporter gene assay in vitro in a human liver model using the HepG2 cell line. Ethanolic extracts from fresh leaves grown under controlled conditions were used and additionally analyzed for their phytochemical content using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The extracts inhibited both AFB1- and oxidative stress-induced DNA damage in a concentration dependent way with a maximum effect of 57% and 81%, respectively. Oxidative stress triggered using ferrous sulfate was blocked by up to 38% (EPR); the potential to induce antioxidant enzymes using ARE/Nrf2-mediated gene expression was also confirmed. Based on these in vitro findings, further studies on the health-protecting effects of A. cruentus are encouraged to fully explore its health promoting potential and provide the scientific basis for encouraging its cultivation and consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iresine is a neotropical genus of the Amaranthaceae with most of the species diversity in Mexico and Mesoamerica. It has suffered a complex classification history with considerably diverging views on the genus concept. We have carried out a phylogenetic analysis of Iresine and allied genera using sequence data of combined plastid introns (including the matK CDS) and spacers as well as ITS, and a dense sampling of species. Trees depict a clade of Iresine with Irenella and Woehleria deeply nested. This clade is sister to the remainder of Gomphrenoideae including Hebanthe and Trommsdorffia (= Pedersenia). One of two maximally supported subclades of Iresine comprises mostly species restricted to the Mexican highlands and adjacent areas, whereas the other subclade is composed of more widespread Mexican-Mesoamerican taxa. Pollen grains of Iresine and relatives were examined using high-resolution SEM, which yielded a matrix of 15 pollen characters. Ancestral character state reconstruction shows dodecahedral grains (in I. angustifolia and I. nigra) to have evolved within the Iresine clade, not involving the complete suite of character shifts associated with metareticulate pollen but just an increase of aperture diameter and a slight decrease of mesoporia width. To the contrary, four character state transformations occurred in the common ancestor of core Gomphrenoideae that led to metareticulate pollen (shifts to a distal orientation of punctae and microspines, to a sunken position of apertures relative to the distal part of mesoporia resulting in narrow mesoporia higher then wide, and a reduction in the diameter of mesoporia). The Iresine clade is characterized by pollen with well-separated ektexinous aperture membrane bodies, rounded or triangular, and gradually tapering into a single spine. For the monophyletic genus Iresine, 35 species are currently accepted. We provide a taxonomic backbone (including one new combination, one new name and several lectotypifications) that also comments on the current understanding of species delimitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Pesquisa Veterinaria Brasileira is the property of Colegio Brasileiro de Patologia Animal - CBPA and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Acceptance of this proposal would neutralise the threat posed by I Salsola coquimbana i to the well-established and unequivocal name I Salicornia neei i and its derivatives, and avoid negative nomenclatural changes. 1782) was described from the coast of Coquimbo (Chile) by a brief diagnosis ("Salsola ( I Coquimbana i ) fruticosa, caul. aphyllis, cal. succulentis diaphanis") with observations on the use of the plant by Chilean natives. Rejection of this proposal would mean that I Salsola coquimbana i , an uncertain and forgotten name, could replace I Salicornia neei i , a widely used name for a South American species. [Extracted from the article]

Linnaeus had a broad concept of Illecebrum and, based on the current circumscription wherein the genus is considered monotypic, only one out of the seventeen names Linnaeus treated in combination with Illecebrum -- I. verticillatum -- remains in the genus. The other sixteen names are now referred to other genera of both Caryophyllaceae (Chaetonychia, Paronychia, Polycarpon), and Amaranthaceae (Achyranthes, Aerva, Althernanthera, Blutaparon, Nothosaerva). Two of the species referred to Illecebrum by Linnaeus have remained to be investigated from a nomenclatural point of view, I. bengalense and I. javanicum. Illecebrum bengalense is here lectotypified with a specimen preserved at LINN and is placed in synonymy with Nothosaerva brachiata. Illecebrum javanicum, based on Iresine javanica, is lectotypified with a Burman illustration. The name Aerva tomentosa is placed in synonymy of Iresine javanica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the whole plant aqueous extract of Aerva lanata (AL) and evaluated their effect on wound associated bacteria. The phytochemical analysis of the AL extract has confirmed the presence of flavonoids (rutin, quercetin and kaempferol), polyphenols (gallic acid and ellagic acid) and saponins. The appearance of brown color and absorption at 430 nm have inferred the formation of AL-AgNPs. The reduced levels of phytochemicals and Ag + ion in the reaction mixture were further confirmed the bio-reducing efficiency of AL. The AL-AgNPs appeared as a spherical shaped particle with a size of 50 nm and also showed the surface roughness (10.3157 nm), zeta potential (−27.1 mV) and face centered cubic crystalline nature under the advanced microscopic and spectral analyses. The FT-IR and EDAX studies revealed that the involvement of functional groups (C O, C O, OH and C N) of AL phytochemicals in the reduction (Ag + to Ag 0 ) and capping of nanoparticles. The AL-AgNPs displayed a remarkable in vitro biocompatibility and a prominent antibacterial activity against wound associated bacteria. The findings of the present study suggest that the AL-AgNPs could be a pharmaceutically useful nano-based formulation to eradicate the bacterial infection in wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was designed to investigate the chemical constituents of the roots of Cyathula officinalis. Compounds were isolated by silica gel, Sephadex LH-20, ODS column chromatography, and preparative HPLC. Their structures were determined on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR techniques, mass spectrometry, and chemical methods. One new oleanane-type triterpenoid saponin, 28- O -[ α -L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→3)- β -D-glucuronopyranosyl-(1→3)- β -D-glucopyranosyl] hederagenin (1), was isolated from the roots of Cyathula officinalis . The anti-inflammatory activities of the isolates were evaluated for their inhibitory effects against LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW 264.7 macrophages cells. Compounds 2, 4, and 6 exhibited moderate anti-inflammatory activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salicornioideae (Amaranthaceae/Chenopodiaceae) comprise 11 genera and ca. 100 species of succulent halophytes distributed worldwide in coastal and inland saline habitats. Most species have peculiar articulated, seemingly leafless stems and spike-like sessile thyrses with highly reduced flowers hidden by fleshy bracts. We analysed sequence data of four markers (ETS, ITS, atpB-rbcL, matK-trnK) from 57 species, 9 subspecies, 1 variety and 2 hybrids representing all curently accepted genera using maximum likelihood, Bayesian analysis, fossil-calibrated molecular dating and ancestral area analysis. All molecular markers gave similar phylogenet ic signals. Salicornioideae probably or iginated in Eurasia during the late Eocene--early Oligocene. The divergence of the early main clades took place in the middle Oligocene with the separation of Allenrolfea/Heterostachys, Halocnemum/Halopeplis/Halostachys/Kalidium and Arthrocnemum/Microcnemum/Tecticornia/Salicornia/ Sarcocornia lineages. The latter lineage diversified most and comprises 3/4 of the species of the subfamily. The Arthrocnemum macrostachyum/Microcnemum lineage diverged at the turn of the Oligocene/ Miocene -- while the Arthrocnemum subterminale, Tecticornia and Salicornia/Sarcocornia lineages were all present by the middle Miocene. Long-distance dispersal has taken place several t imes to the Amer icas (Allenrolfea/Heterostachys, Arthrocnemum subterminale, Salicornia/Sarcocornia), South Africa (Halopeplis, Salicornia/Sarcocornia) and Australia (Tecticornia, Salicornia/Sarcocornia). Most currently accepted genera were resolved as monophyletic. However, Sarcocornia is paraphyletic in relation to Salicornia, and Arthrocnemum proved to be polyphyletic. In addition, the name Arthrocnemum is a nomenclatural synonym of Salicornia. As a consequence, we propose the merging of Sarcocornia under Salicornia and provide 19 new nomenclatural combinations and one replacement name. For Salicornia (incl. Sarcocornia) we propose a new infrageneric classification to accommodate the four phylogenetically and geographically well-supported sublineages of the genus. We also propose abandoning the name Arthrocnemum in its current use, and describe two new genera, Arthrocaulon (Eurasia, Africa) and Arthroceras (North America), and provide three new nomenclatural combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhizoctonia solani is a soilborne pathogen with a broad host range. An anastomosis group (AG) system based on hyphal fusions has been established to distinguish between different R. solani subgroups in this species complex. Members of the AG2-2IIIB subgroup can cause serious problems in sugar beet production, resulting in Rhizoctonia root and crown rot. In this review, we summarize the current molecular advances in the R. solani sugar beet pathosystem. The draft genome of R. solani AG2-2IIIB has an estimated size of 56.02 Mb, larger than any of the R. solani AGs sequenced to date. The genome of AG2-2IIIB has been predicted to harbor 11,897 protein-encoding genes, including a high number of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes). The highest number of CAZymes was observed for polysaccharide lyase family 1 (PL-1), glycoside hydrolase family 43 (GH-43), and carbohydrate esterase family 12 (CE-12). Eleven single-effector candidates were predicted based on AG2-2IIIB genome data. The RsLysM, RsRlpA, and RsCRP1 genes were highly induced upon early-stage infection of sugar beet seedlings, and heterologous expression in Cercospora beticola and model plant species demonstrated their involvement in virulence. However, despite the progress achieved thus far on the molecular interactions in this pathosystem, many aspects remain to be elucidated, including the development of efficient transformation systems, important for functional studies, and the silencing of undesirable traits in the sugar beet crop. • Rhizoctonia solan i is a notorious soilborne pathogen with broad host range. • AG2-2IIIB isolates mainly infects sugar beets. • High number of secreted proteins have been identified in the AG2-2IIIB genome. • Effectors from AG2-2IIIB with variable functions have been characterized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To study the antioxidative and protective properties of aqueous extract of Hammada scoparia ( H. scoparia ) against the effects of sub-chronic aluminium (Al) intoxication on mnemonic process and some neurochemical markers. Methods Al was administered intraperitoneally (50 mg/kg body weight, three times a week), and H. scoparia and malic acid were given orally by gavage at a daily dose (100 mg/kg body weight) to rats for 90 days. Results Al caused significant short-term and long-term memory disturbances, a decrease in locomotor activity, a significant inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity in brain and a significant depletion of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase) and glutathione. It significantly increased lipid peroxidation levels in cerebrum and cerebellum. However, treatment with H. scoparia extract protected efficiently the neurological functions of intoxicated rats by considerably increasing antioxidants levels and decreasing production of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances by 4.26% compared to untreated group. We noted some controversial results with malic acid. It showed some positive results but it was not as efficient as H. scoparia extract. Current results were consistent with histopathological observations including neurodegeneration and vacuolated cytoplasm (spongiosis) in Al treated sections when H. scoparia and malic acid treated sections showed marked neuroprotection signs. Conclusions This study strongly suggested that H. scoparia extract could possibly restore the altered neurological capacities and antioxidant power in rats, and it could even be a good alternative to chelating agents or other chemical medicines against Al-induced neurotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study quantification of phenolic components of Achyranthes aspera and Aerva javanica leaves was made using LC-ESI-MS/MS. Antioxidant and antimutagenic activities of both plant leaves' extracts probably associated with their phenolic constituents were also monitored. Extracts were prepared using different concentrations of aqueous and acidified methanol. Extract yields and total phenols varied 5.4–58.8% (w/w) and 111.2 ± 1.2 to 325.5 ± 2.9 mg g − 1 of extract, respectively. Achyranthes aspera having lesser cytotoxicity (2.95 ± 0.14% at 0.5 mg mL − 1 ) than that of Aerva javanica (12.2 ± 0.85% at 0.5 mg mL − 1 ) provided relatively good protection against oxidative damage to pBR322 DNA plasmid. LC-ESI-MS/MS profiling exposed sixteen phenolics including kaempferol, catechin, syringic, quinic, sinapic, caffeic, chlorogenic acids in Achyranthes aspera ; and six compounds including p-coumaric, gallic acid, myricetin in Aerva javanica . Aside from quinic acid, the two species did not share any phenolic compound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Ekoloji Dergisi is the property of Ekoloji Dergisi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Halophytes accumulate large amounts of salt in their tissues, and thus are susceptible to colonization by halotolerant and halophilic microorganisms that might be relevant for the growth and development of the plant. Here, the study of 814 cultured strains and 14,189 sequences obtained by 454 pyrosequencing were combined in order to evaluate the presence, abundance and diversity of halophilic, endophytic and epiphytic microorganisms in the phytosphere of leaves of members of the subfamily Salicornioideae from five locations in Spain and Chile. Cultures were screened by the tandem approach of MALDI-TOF/MS and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. In addition, differential centrifugation was used to enrich endophytes for further DNA isolation, 16S rRNA gene amplification and 454 pyrosequencing. Culturable and non-culturable data showed strong agreement with a predominance of Proteobacteria , Firmicutes and Actinobacteria . The most abundant isolates corresponded to close relatives of the species Chromohalobacter canadensis and Salinicola halophilus that comprised nearly 60% of all isolates and were present in all plants. Up to 66% of the diversity retrieved by pyrosequencing could be brought into pure cultures and the community structures were highly dependent on the compartment where the microorganisms thrived (plant surface or internal tissues). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ptilotus (Amaranthaceae) is an Australian genus with over 100 species, most of which occur in arid Western Australia. Ptilotus has been a taxonomically difficult genus; despite rigorous morphological studies into the genus over many years, previous workers have found it difficult to delimit infrageneric groups due to inconsistent morphological variation. With the goal to establish a phylogenetic framework for the genus, 100 taxa were sampled, including 87 Ptilotus spp., and the ITS nrDNA and matK cpDNA were sequenced. The phylogeny was reconstructed using Bayesian, maximum likelihood and maximum parsimony analyses on separate and concatenated datasets. Morphological characters were assessed and compared to clades on the phylogeny to identify synapomorphies and aid in the construction of an infrageneric classification. A diversification rate analysis was used to identify rate shifts in speciation across the phylogeny. Four major clades of the monophyletic Ptilotus were resolved, three small clades together comprising 27% of sampled taxa and a large, diverse clade comprising the remaining 73%. Four floral synapomorphies were identified as uniquely occurring within the latter, although none were common to all taxa in the clade. The diversification rate analysis identified a probable rate shift at the base of Ptilotus, indicating that the genus may have undergone a rapid diversification early in its evolution. This rapid diversification provides a plausible explanation for the lack of consistent variation in morphology among the major clades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ptilotus (Amaranthaceae) is an Australian genus with over 100 species, most of which occur in arid Western Australia. Ptilotus has been a taxonomically difficult genus; despite rigorous morphological studies into the genus over many years, previous workers have found it difficult to delimit infrageneric groups due to inconsistent morphological variation. With the goal to establish a phylogenetic framework for the genus, 100 taxa were sampled, including 87 Ptilotus spp, and the ITS nrDNA and matK cpDNA were sequenced. The phylogeny was reconstructed using Bayesian, maximum likelihood and maximum parsimony analyses on separate and concatenated datasets. Morphological characters were assessed and compared to clades on the phylogeny to identify synapomorphies and aid in the construction of an infrageneric classification. A diversification rate analysis was used to identify rate shifts in speciation across the phylogeny. Four major clades of the monophyletic Ptilotus were resolved, three small clades together comprising 27% of sampled taxa and a large, diverse clade comprising the remaining 73%. Four floral synapomorphies were identified as uniquely occurring within the latter, although none were common to all taxa in the clade. The diversification rate analysis identified a probable rate shift at the base of Ptilotus, indicating that the genus may have undergone a rapid diversification early in its evolution. This rapid diversification provides a plausible explanation for the lack of consistent variation in morphology among the major clades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Brazil, several pharmaceutical industries produce phytomedicines from the roots of Pfaffia glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen. In this work, callus cultures of P. glomerata were established in order to study whether in v/fro-cultured tissue could produce β-Ecdysone. To induce calli, nodal segments were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium with various levels of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP; 1.0, 5.0, or 10.0 µM), α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA; 0.5, 1.0, 5.0, or 10.0 µM) or 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic (2,4-D; 0.5, 1.0, 5.0, or 10.0 µM). β-Ecdysone concentrations [on a (w/w) dry weight (DW) basis] in in vitro-cultured and field-grown tissues were measured by high performance liquid chromatography. The level of β-ecdysone was related to the friability and shoot regeneration capacity of the different calli. Organogenic, friable calli grown on media supplemented with 10.0 µM BAP, plus either 5.0 µM NAA or 0.5 µM 2,4-D. resulted in the highest β-ecdysone concentrations [0.282% (w/w) and 0.211% (w/w), respectively]. In contrast, the β-ecdysone concentrations in field-grown plants were 0.194% (w/w) in roots and 0.333% (w/w) in the aerial parts. Low levels of β-ecdysone [0.007% (w/w)] were detected in plantlets cultured on hormone-free MS medium, indicating the importance of culture conditions for the in vitro production of β-ecdysone. This is the first report on the presence of ecdysteroids in calli of P. glomerata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PPO (polyphenol oxidase) is a plastid, nuclear-encoded enzyme widely distributed in the plants species. In green plants the PPO genes involved in pigment formation. PPO is one of the main enzymes involved in biosynthesis of betalain pigments. Celosia is a member of Amaranthaceae that produces betalain pigment (red-violet betacyanins and yellow-orange betaxanthins). Various colour of Celosia inflorescences/flowers in East Java led to the idea to investigate the genetic diversity based on PPO genes. By using PCR-RFLP methods the DNA sequences all Celosia variants showed high genetic diversity. Phylogeny analysis classified the variants into two clusters based on latitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The present study was undertaken to isolate the bioactive flavonoid compound from the seeds of Achyranthes aspera and establish its molecular interaction towards monoamine oxidase-A enzyme. Materials and methods The structure of the isolated flavonoid was ascertained by UV, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, DEPT 90, DEPT 135 and ESI-MS. Molecular level interaction was studied through molecular docking simulation carried out with AutoDock 4.2 in the catalytic portion of MAO-A. Results 5, 7-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-6-(3-methylbut-2-en-1-yl)-4H-chromen-4-one was isolated by chromatographic techniques. The docking study revealed that the structure of the isolated flavonoid showed to be a potent monoamine oxidase-A inhibitor with a docking score of −8.06 and calculated inhibition constant of about 1.23μM. Conclusion On the basis of molecular docking study, we propose that isolated flavonoid can successfully dock into the inhibitor-binding pocket of human monoamine oxidase-A isoform with appreciable predicted affinity. The results therefore suggest that 6-prenyl apigenin can be a promising lead for developing novel monoamine oxidase-A inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The origin of the generic names Salsola L. and Kali Mill is discussed. The latter is a legitimate name, published independently from Salsola, even though the original generic boundaries are by and large the same. The type of Salsola is S. soda L, the earliest to have been designated in a non-supersedable way. The type of Kali is S. kali L. (K. soda Moench non (L.) Scop.; = K. turgidum (Dumort.) Guterm.). The current nomenclatural situation is satisfactory and need not be changed by any conservation proposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The typification of the names Amaranthus flavus L, A. mangostanus L, A. polygamus L, A. sanguineus L. and A. tristis L. (Amaranthaceae) are discussed as well as their current recognition. Specimens from the Linnaean Herbarium (LINN) are designated as lectotypes for these four names. Amaranthus mangostanus, A. polygamus and A. tristis are treated as synonyms of A. tricolor L, while A. flavus and A. sanguineus are synonyms of A. cruentus L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study callus induction from different explants (internode, leaf, root) and in vitro plantlets propagation from medicinally important plant Achyranthes aspera L. Methods: Sterilized explants were prepared by using 0.1% HgCl2 and 0.5% Bavistin and callus was obtained when cultured onto Murashige Skoog's (MS) medium by using different concentrations and combination of 2,4-D, NAA, BAP, IAA, IBA with 3% sucrose and 0.8% agar. Induced callus was immediately transferred to MS medium containing at different concentrations of phytohormones for shootlets and rootlets induction respectively. Results: Sterilization treatment of 0.1% HgCl2 for 2–3 min and Bavistin 0.5% for 10–12 min showed the highest percentage of asepsis and survival rate. Maximum induction of callus was obtained from a combination of 2.0 mg/L 2,4-D and 0.5 mg/L NAA from leaf. Highest shootlets number (4.83±0.17) and length (3.8±0.16) cm were observed on full strength MS medium when fortified with BAP 4.0 mg/L and KIN 0.5 mg/L. Concerted efforts of BAP 2.0 mg/L and NAA 0.5 mg/L on full strength MS medium showed highest leaf number (6.77±0.94). In vitro raised shoots were allowed to root on different strengths of MS medium fortified with IAA and IBA at different concentrations. Experimentally, 3.0 mg/L IBA was enabled to induce maximum rootlets number (10.0±9.82) on full strength MS medium. Afterwards, regenerated shoots with well developed roots were successfully subjected to hardening process and were acclimatized. The survived plantlets showed 66.67% survival frequency without any morphological abnormality. Conclusions: The results demonstrated that different explants were good source of callus induction, morphology analysis as well as indirect plantlets regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Linnaeus's (l.c. 1754) description of I Bosea i agrees with the morphology of the Canarian endemic and does not apply to I Phyllanthus nutans i . Despite the discrepancies between Iamonico's lectotype and Linnaeus's description in I Genera plantarum i , this designated lectotype is in accord with the rules on lectotype selection (Art. Linnaeus's description is similar to that provided by Ludwig (l.c.), but it has a few differences, as for instance Linnaeus referred to plants with leaves that are "lanceolatis, concavis, erectis, margine tenuioribus" (vs. "oblongis cuspidatis" in " I Yervamora i "). After comparing the Sloane (l.c. 1725) and Walther (l.c.) illustrations mentioned in the protologue, Iamonico remarked that because the Sloane image is more complete "we are designating it as lectotype of this name". [Extracted from the article]

(in Sukhorukov & Kushunina, l.c. 2015: 288) was coined to be applied to that species of I Atriplex i , while the species of I Chenopodium i was described as I C. harae i Sukhor. After considering all nomenclatural I pros i and I contras i (see above, and also arguments presented in Mosyakin & McNeill, l.c. and Mosyakin & Mandák, l.c.), we think that the best escape from that nomenclaturally confusing situation would be to reject the long-forgotten and only recently resurrected name I C. pallidum i . Moreover, all original specimens of I Chenopodium pallidum i in P (all belonging to an I Atriplex i ) are not completely mature ("gathered in vegetative or early blooming stage": Sukhorukov & Kushunina, l.c. 2015: 288), and thus there remain some doubts regarding their actual species identity. [Extracted from the article]

Background. Ultraviolet (UV-B) radiation affects the immune system of fish. Dietary supplementation of natural immunostimulants may enhance the immunity of fish. The presently reported investigation evaluates the UV-B protective property of Achyranthes aspera seed in larvae of rohu, Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822). Materials and methods. Larvae (1.19 ± 0.03 g) were fed four formulas of diet containing 0.0% (control), 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1.0% Achyranthes aspera seeds. After 51 days, larvae of each feeding treatment were divided into two groups. One groups was exposed to UV-B radiation (80 µW · cm-2) and the other one remained unexposed. Results. Average weight of fish was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in fish fed 0.5%-seed-supplemented diet (compared to other treatments). UV-B radiation affected the growth of fish fed 0.1%-seed-supplemented- and control diets; other two treatments remained unaffected. Total serum protein-, albumin-, and globulin levels were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in exposed fish compared to the unexposed ones. Among the exposed groups, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase levels were minimum in fish fed 1.0%-seed-supplemented diet, whereas the highest levels of myeloperoxidase, hemagglutination titre, and white blood cells were found in fish fed 0.5%-seed-supplemented diet. Conclusion. Dietary supplementation of A. aspera seed at 0.5% level enhanced the growth and immunity of UV-B exposed fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aerva javanica (Burm.f.) Juss. ex Schult. seed essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation (HD) and dry steam distillation (SD) extracting methods and analyzed by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS). Twenty and eighteen components representing 90.5% and 95.6% of the seed essential oil were identified, using hydrodistillation and dry steam distillation, respectively. The major constituent identified from seed essential oil obtained by HD were heptacosane (25.4%), 3-allyl-6-methoxyphenol (14.1%), pentacosane (12.1%), 6,10,14-trimethyl-2-pentadecanone (7.9%), nonacosane (7.1%), tricosane (3.6%), α-farnesene (3.5%), dodecanal (2.7%) and octacosane (2.1%). Whereas the major constituent identified from seed essential oil obtained by SD were heptacosane (41.4%), pentacosane (21.2%), nonacosane (14.8%), tricosane (6.3%), octacosane (4.2%) and tetracosane (3.0%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: To analyze the phytochemical composition and in vitro antioxidant properties of aqueous extract of Aerva lanata (A. lanata) stem. Methods: During the preliminary phytochemical analysis, the aqueous extract of A. lanata was screened for the presence of carbohydrates, proteins, phenolic compounds, oil and fats, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins and phytosterols. Antioxidant activity of the extract was determined by 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity, metal chelating activity, reducing power activity and DNA damage inhibition activity. Analysis of phenolic compounds was performed by Folin-Ciocalteau reagent method and gradient high performance liquid chromatography technique. Results: Preliminary phytochemical analysis exhibited the presence of phenolic compounds, saponins, flavonoids, tannins and phytosterols as major phytochemical groups. The extract exhibited high 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity (IC50= 110.74 μg/mL), metal chelating activity (IC50= 758.17 μg/mL), reducing power activity and DNA damage inhibition efficiency. The extract was reported to possess a high amount of total phenolic content and some of them were identified as gallic acid (3,4,5-OH), apigenin-7-O-glucoside (apigetrin), quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (rutin) and myricetin (3,5,7,3,4,5-OH) by high performance liquid chromatography analysis. The extract was found non toxic towards human erythrocytes in the hemolytic assay (IC50 = 24.89 mg/mL). Conclusions: These results conclud that A. lanata stem possesses high antioxidant activity and can be used for the development of natural and safe antioxidant compounds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Polycnemoideae is a poorly studied subfamily of the Amaranthaceae/Chenopodiaceae alliance which contains ca. 13 rare species in three disjunctly distributed genera. We present the results of a dated molecular phylogeny and a survey of morphology, micromorphology and stem anatomy revealing the phylogenetic relationships and historical biogeography of the subfamily as well as its morphological evolution. The results are converted into a new classification of the group. The diver-gence of Polycnemoideae from Amaranthaceae s.str. dates back to the Eocene and the oldest split in the subfamily separated a Northern Hemisphere lineage (Polycnemum) and a predominantly Southern Hemisphere lineage (Nitrophila, Hemichroa, Surreya gen. nov.) around the Eocene/Oligocene boundary. There is some evidence for a southern connection via Antarctica in the ancestor of the Nitrophila!Hemichroa!Surreya clade. The amphitropical genus Nitrophila likely originated in South America and reached North America via long-distance dispersal. Genera of Polycnemoideae diversified during the Miocene and Pliocene. They are species-poor and appear relictual. The morphological and micromorphological survey revealed a number of useful diagnostic characters which permit a clear definition of all four genera and 13 species recognized here. Hemichroa in its traditional circumscription lacks diagnostic characters. Hemichroa pentandra is much more similar to Nitrophila and shares a number of symplesiomorphies with it, while H. diandra and H. mesembryanthema, which form a highly supported clade, show several clear synapomorphic characters. Therefore the latter two species are here described within a new genus, Surreya R. Masson & G. Kadereit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effect of hydro-ethanolic extract of Stephania hernandifolia leaves and Achyranthes aspera roots in composite manner at the ratio of 1 : 3 on testicular activity in male rats. Methods: Rats were divided into 4 groups with 8 animals in each group. The control (group A) received 0.5 ml of olive oil/100 g body weight orally, other three groups were treated with said extract orally at a dose of 0.4 mg/g (group B) or 0.8 mg/g (group C) or 1.6 mg/g body weight (group D) respectively for 28 d. On 29th day of experiment, the animals were sacrificed. Sperm concentrations in cauda epididymis and biochemical markers like testicular cholesterol, androgenic key enzyme activity, plasma testosterone level, seminal fructose level, glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) and glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT) activities and serum triglyceride levels were measured following standard methods. Results: Extract treated animals in all doses resulted in a significant (P<0.05) decrease in sperm concentration, testicular androgenic key enzyme activity, plasma testosterone and seminal vesicle fructose levels along with an increase in testicular cholesterol level. Animals treated at a dose of 0.8 mg/g body weight showed more promising result without causing any metabolic toxicity compared with other doses. Histological study also supported the biochemical results. The minimum but most effective dose i.e. 0.8 mg/g body weight had an inhibitory effect on implantation focused here by mating experiment. Conclusion: The composite extract of S. hernandifolia and A. aspera has a potent efficacy as male contraceptive that may provide clues to the pharmaceutical industries for male contraceptive development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The present study evaluated the antinociceptive and antihyperglycemic effects of crude methanol extract of whole plants of Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb. (Amaranthaceae) in Swiss albino mice. Antinociceptive activity was evaluated by attenuation of the number of constrictions in acetic acid-induced gastric pain, while antihyperglycemic activity was evaluated through oral glucose tolerance tests in glucose-loaded mice. Dose-dependent and significant inhibitions in the number of constrictions were seen in mice administered with extract at doses of 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg per kg body weight. At these concentrations, the numbers of constrictions were reduced, respectively, by 31.0, 32.7, 37.9 and 44.8%. In comparison, a standard antinociceptive drug, aspirin reduced the number of constrictions by 37.9 and 67.2%, when administered at doses, respectively, of 200 and 400 mg per kg body weight. The extract also exhibited dose-dependent and significant antihyperglycemic activity when administered to mice at the aforementioned four doses. Serum glucose concentrations were reduced, respectively, by 36.3, 58.6, 65.0 and 65.6% at the four doses administered. The results compare favorably with a standard antihyperglycemic drug, glibenclamide, which when administered at a dose of 10 mg per kg body weight reduced serum glucose level by 42.7%. Taken together, the results obtained indicate that the extract merit further scientific studies towards discovery of components, which may prove beneficial in ameliorating pain, as well as high sugar levels of diabetic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seeds of seabeach amaranth (Amaranthus pumilus Raf.), a species federally listed as 'threatened,' were stratified (moist-chilled) for 90 days at 4C (39F) of treated with a solution of the potassium (K) salt (K-sal0 of gibberellin A3 (K-GA3) at 1000 mg·liter-1 (ppm) for 24 hr. After treatment, both groups of seeds were sown in containers of two volumes, 139 or 635 cm³ (9 of 39 in³) with a substrate of peat:pine bark (1:1, v/v) amended with one of two rates of pulverized dolomitic lime [2.24 or 4.48 kg·m-3 (3.8 or 7.6 lb·yd-3)]. Containers were maintained in a greenhouse. After seedling emergence, seedlings were fertilized with a 20N-4.4P- 16.6K (20N-10P205- 20K20) acidic, water soluble fertilizer or a 15N-2.2P-12.5K (15N-5P205-15K20) basic, water soluble fertilizer applied thrice weekly at nitrogen (N) application rates (NARs) of 75, 150, 225, or 300 mg·liter-1. The study was terminated 8 weeks after seeds were sown and data recorded. Regardless of fertilizer, acidic of basic, top dry weight and leaf area of seabeach amaranth increased linearly with increasing NAR. Maximum top dry weight and leaf area occurred with N at 300 mg·liter-1, whereas root dry weight was unaffected by NAR. Both fertilizers increased electrical conductivity.(EC) linearly with increasing NAR, and EC values of 1.15 to 1.18 dS·m-1 were adequate for maximum top growth of leaf area. Substrate pH decreased linearly with increasing NAR 21, 43, and 57 days after initiation. Top and root dry weights and leaf area were greatest for seedlings derived from seeds treated with K-GA3. Large containers yielded top and root dry weights and leaf area 61, 33, and 57% greater, respectively, than smaller containers. Top N concentration increased linearly with increasing NAR for acidic and basic fertilizers with N concentrations of 58.4 and 50.4 mg·g-1, respectively, at maximum top dry weight. Although top nutrient content of N increased linearly with NAR, top N content was unaffected by either rate of lime of type of fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The present study evaluated the tolerance and accumulation potential in the salt-marsh shrub Halimione portulacoides under moderate and high external Cu levels. A greenhouse experiment was conducted in order to investigate the effects of a range of external Cu concentrations (0 to 60mmoll−1) on growth and photosynthetic performance by measuring gas exchange, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and photosynthetic pigments. We also determined total copper, nitrogen, phosphorus and sulfur concentrations in the plant tissues. H. portulacoides survived with external Cu concentrations of up to 35mmolCul−1, although the excess of metal resulted in a biomass reduction of 48%. The effects of Cu on growth were linked to a drastic reduction in net photosynthesis. However, H. portulacoides tolerated Cu levels of up to 15mmolCul−1 without suffering adverse physiological effects. Our results indicate that this species could play an important role in the restoration of Cu-contaminated soils. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The ethanol extract of the roots of Aerva persica (Burm f) Merrill (Amaranthaceae) was investigated to determine its antiulcer and in vivo antioxidant activities in albino Wistar rats. Ulcers were induced by ethanol and pylorus ligation. The extract was administered at the dose of 200mg/kg orally, p.o. for 15 consecutive days. The ulcer index of the ethanol extract was found to be significantly reduced compared with control animals. The effect was also assessed by determining the free acidity, pepsin activity, total carbohydrate (TC), and protein content (PK) in control, standard, and test group animals. The in vivo antioxidant activity was evaluated by determining the reduced glutathione level (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the tissue homogenates. The results reveal the significant reduction in the level of malondialdehyde and the increase in the level of reduced glutathione in the rats that received the ethanolic extract. Furthermore, histopathological studies have shown that pretreatment with the ethanolic extract of the roots of A persica reduces (100%) ethanol- and pylorus ligation-induced hemorrhagic necrosis in rats. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objective: The study was aimed at evaluating the antiulcer activity of ethanolic extract of Achyranthes aspera (EEAA) leaf. Methods: The anti-ulcer assays were performed on pylorus ligation and chronic ethanol induced ulcer model. The effects of the EEAA on gastric content volume, pH, free acidity, total acidity and ulcer index were evaluated. Results: The percentage of ulcer protection (59.55% and 35.58%) was significantly (P < 0.001) higher in the groups treated with the high dose of EEAA (600 mg/kg), it also reduced the volume of gastric juice and total acidity whereas, gastric pH was increased significantly. Conclusions: The results of this study show significant gastroprotective activity of EEAA may be due to presence of phyto-constituents like flavanoids, saponins and tannins. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Haloxylon ammodendron and H. persicum are two closely related species in genus Haloxylon of Amaranthaceae. Saxoul trees, designated the King of psammophytic plants, have been playing an important role in sand fixation, wind control and water conservation in the deserts. In recent decades, artificial and natural Haloxylon populations have been threatened in China due to environmental degradation. Genetic evaluation on Haloxylon germplasm resources has been in urgent need in China. However, the lack of morphological and molecular markers has severely limited the related researches. In this study, a SSR primer pair named QCA58 was found to be transferable and informative for distinguishing the two Haloxylon species. Primer QCA58 previously reported by Maughan et al. (2004) produced a DNA fragment of 183bp in length containing a stretch of (TG)16 in Chenopodium quinoa Willd. (genus Chenopodium, Amaranthaceae). Surprisingly, a stretch of a compound repeat motif TCTTCAGGGTC(T/C)TCTTCAGGGTC was detected in the PCR product (≈ 970bp in length) of Haloxylon species with primer QCA58. Development of SSR markers commonly involve in tandem repeats of short (2–6 bp) DNA sequences. Our results indicated that the longer or compound repeat and its relationship with SSRs are noteworthy for the potential in basic evolutionary applications, such as identification at genus and species levels. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objective: To develop the reproducible in vitro propagation protocols for the medicinally important plants viz., Achyranthes aspera (A. aspera) L. and Achyranthes bidentata (A. bidentata) Blume using nodal segments as explants. Methods: Young shoots of A. aspera and A. bidentata were harvested and washed with running tap water and treated with 0.1% bavistin and rinsed twice with distilled water. Then the explants were surface sterilized with 0.1% (w/v) HgCl2 solutions for 1 min. After rinsing with sterile distilled water for 3-4 times, nodal segments were cut into smaller segments (1 cm) and used as the explants. The explants were placed horizontally as well as vertically on solid basal Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 3% sucrose, 0.6% (w/v) agar (Hi-Media, Mumbai) and different concentration and combination of 6-benzyl amino purine (BAP), kinetin (Kin), naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and indole acetic acid (IAA) for direct regeneration. Results: Adventitious proliferation was obtained from A. aspera and A. bidentata nodal segments inoculated on MS basal medium with 3% sucrose and augmented with BAP and Kin with varied frequency. MS medium augmented with 3.0 mg/L of BAP showed the highest percentage (93.60±0.71) of shootlets formation for A. aspera and (94.70±0.53) percentages for A. bidentata. Maximum number of shoots/explants (10.60±0.36) for A. aspera and (9.50±0.56) for A. bidentata was observed in MS medium fortified with 5.0 mg/L of BAP. For A. aspera, maximum mean length (5.50±0.34) of shootlets was obtained in MS medium augmented with 3.0 mg/L of Kin and for A. bidentata (5.40±0.61) was observed in the very same concentration. The highest percentage, maximum number of rootlets/shootlet and mean length of rootlets were observed in 1/2 MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/L of IBA. Seventy percentages of plants were successfully established in polycups. Sixty eight percentages of plants were well established in the green house condition. Sixty five percentages of plants were established in the field. Conclusions: The results have shown that use of nodal buds is an alternative reproducible and dependable method for clonal propagation of A. aspera and A. bidentata. The high rate of direct shoot-root multiplication and their high rate of post-hardening survival indicate that this protocol can be easily adopted for commercial large scale cultivation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]