Unexploited potential of some biotechnological techniques for biofertilizer production and formulation

The massive application of chemical fertilizers to support crop production has resulted in soil, water, and air pollution at a global scale. In the same time, this situation escalated consumers' concerns regarding quality and safety of food production which, due to increase of fertilizer prices, have provoked corresponding price increase of food products. It is widely accepted that the only solution is to boost exploitation of plant-beneficial microorganisms which in conditions of undisturbed soils play a key role in increasing the availability of minerals that otherwise are inaccessible to plants. This review paper is focused on the employment of microbial inoculants and their production and formulation. Special attention is given to biotechniques that are not fully exploited as tools for biofertilizer manufacturing such as microbial co-cultivation and co-immobilization. Another emerging area includes biotechnological production and combined usage of microorganisms/active natural compounds (biostimulants) such as plant extracts and exudates, compost extracts, and products like strigolactones, which improve not only plant growth and development but also plant-microbial interactions. The most important potential and novel strategies in this field are presented as well as the tendencies that will be developed in the near future.

A contribution to set a legal framework for biofertilisers

The extensive research, production and use of microorganisms to improve plant nutrition have resulted in an inconsistent definition of the term "biofertiliser" which, in some cases, is due to the different microbial mechanisms involved. The rationale for adopting the term biofertiliser is that it derives from "biological fertiliser", that, in turn, implies the use of living microorganisms. Here, we propose a definition for this kind of products which is distinguishing them from biostimulants or other inorganic and organic fertilisers. Special emphasis is given to microorganism(s) with multifunctional properties and biofertilisers containing more than one microorganism. This definition could be included in legal provisions regulating registration and marketing requirements. A set of rules is also proposed which could guarantee the quality of biofertilisers present on the market and thus foster their use by farmers.

Synthesis of 4-Aminocoumarin Derivatives with N-Substitutents Containing Hydroxy or Amino Groups

Reactions of 4-hydroxycoumarin (1a) and 4-chlorocoumarin-3-carbaldehyde (1b) with amino alcohols or alkylene diamines led to the formation of the corresponding N-substituted 4-aminocoumarins 3, 5 and 6. However, 4-hydroxycoumarin-3-carbaldehyde (8) reacted with 2-aminoethanol and ethylenediamine to give N-substituted 3-(aminomethylene)-chromane-2,4-diones 9a, b. The structure and the E-configuration of compound 6 were proven by X-ray crystal structure analysis. Products 9a, b displayed signals of both E- and Z-isomers in their NMR spectra. All novel products have been characterized by means of spectral (IR, NMR, MS) data and elemental analyses

[Secondary non-Hodgkin lymphoma of female genital tract]

Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas (NHL) are a separate group of blood diseases, which includes all types of lymphomas, without Hodgkin lymphomas. The incidence of NHL in the female genital system is 0.5% of all the NHL. They develop in the female genital organs primary or affect them secondary. Secondary development of the genital non-Hodgkin's lymphoma we have when the biopsy of a lymph node that precedes the diagnosis of the disease is before the development of a genital tumor or we can find a genital tumor--along with simultaneous involvement of the lymph nodes or extra genital authority. We present a clinical case of 56 years patient with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with secondary genital involvement. From ultrasonography, computed axial tomography and Tu markers that were maiden we have suspicion for ovarian tumor with mechanical pressure over pyelocalix system due to left hidroureter and left hydronephrosis II degree. That was the only reason for urgent surgical treatment with intraoperative histologic diagnosis of NHL. The postoperative chemotherapy in combination with surgical treatment in our case had a good and long-lasting disease survivor effect. One year after the operation and the chemotherapy in the patient, there is no evidence of relapse.

Biochar of animal origin: a sustainable solution to the global problem of high-grade rock phosphate scarcity?

Phosphorus (P) is an essential element for all living organisms. However, in soil-plant systems, this nutrient is the most limiting, leading to frequent applications of soluble P fertilisers. Their excessive use provokes alterations in the natural P cycle, soil biodiversity and ecological equilibrium and is the main reason for the eutrophication of water, with consequences on food safety. Biotechnology offers a number of sustainable solutions that can mitigate these problems by using various waste materials as a source of P and, on the other hand, their solubilisation by selected micro-organisms. This review present results on the solubilisation of animal bone char with high phosphate content by micro-organisms to produce organic acids such as lactic acid, citric acid and itaconic acid. All experiments were performed under conditions of liquid submerged and solid state fermentation processes. Freely suspended and immobilised cells of the corresponding microbial cultures were employed using substrates characterised by low cost and abundance. Other alternative technologies are discussed as well in order to stimulate further studies in this field, bearing in mind the progressive increase in P fertiliser prices based on high global P consumption and the scarcity of rock phosphate reserves.

[Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: an attempt to propose rules for good medical practice]

The authors emphasize the advantages of the term "cervical intraepithelial neoplasia" (CIN) over "dysplasia" and "carcinoma-in-situ". The rules for good medical practice in treating CIN are based on several starting points, namely: proven role of the human papillomavirus (HPV) in the development of CIN; current possibilities to diagnose and to prevent HPV infections; morphological stigmata of CIN within the epithelium; possibilities to treat CIN and lack of possibilities to treat HPV infection; assessment of the patient 's reproductive potential. In recent cases of CIN1 the history of anti-HPV vaccination is an important factor in choosing the best treatment protocol. In cases of persistent CIN1 treatment protocols are influenced by the presence/absence of high-risk types of HPV. In recent cases of CIN2 treatment protocols vary according to the extent of the lesion, as well as its penetration within the cervical canal. The latter sign is of foremost importance in recent cases of CIN3. Treatment protocols for all the above mentioned conditions, for persistent CIN2 and CIN3,as well as for post-treatment recurrences are presented in flow chart form. Patients' age and reproductive potential should be taken into consideration in selected cases of CIN2+. CIN in pregnant patients deserves a more conservative approach.

Animal bones char solubilization by gel-entrapped Yarrowia lipolytica on glycerol-based media

Citric acid was produced with free and k-carrageenan-entrapped cells of the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica in single and repeated batch-shake-flask fermentations on glycerol-based media. Simultaneous solubilization of hydroxyapatite of animal bone origin (HABO) was tested in all experiments. The highest citric acid production by free yeast cells of 20.4 g/L and 18.7 g/L was reached after 96 h of fermentation in the absence and presence of 3 g/L HABO, respectively. The maximum values for the same parameter achieved by gel-entrapped cells in conditions of single batch and repeated-batch fermentation processes were 18.7 g/L and 28.1 g/L registered after 96 h and the 3d batch cycle, respectively. The highest citric acid productivity of 0.58 g L⁻¹ h⁻¹ was obtained with immobilized cells in repeated batch mode of fermentation when the added hydroxyapatite of 3 g/L was solubilized to 399 mg/L whereas the maximum efficiency of 89.0% was obtained with 1 g/L of HABO.

Synthesis, antitrichinnellosis and antiprotozoal activity of some novel thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(3H)-ones containing benzimidazole ring

Some novel thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(3H)-ones containing benzimidazol-2-yl-thioethyl- and benzimidazol-2-yl-methanethioethyl moiety in second position of the pyrimidine ring were synthesized in order to determine their antitrichinellosis and antiprotozoal effects. The structures of the compounds were confirmed by IR, (1)H NMR and elemental analysis. The antiparasitic screening showed that the benzimidazole derivatives of thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(3H)-ones exhibited higher activity against Trichinella spiralis in vitro in comparison albendazole. The most active compound, 2-[2-(5-nitro-1H-benzimidazol-1-yl)ethyl]-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro[1]benzothieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(3H)-one 22 revealed 95% activity at a dosage of 5 mg/kg mw after 24 h, while compounds 8 and 10 applied at the same dose showed efficacy of 90% after 48 h. The compound 2-{2-[(5(6)-nitro-1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)thio]ethyl}-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro[1]-benzothieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(3H)-one 11 exhibited 90% efficacy after 24 h. The pharmaco-therapeutic study in vivo on invaded with Lamblia muris white mice showed 100% effectiveness of the compounds 8, 10, 11, 13-15 and 22, 23 after five-days-treatment course.

Multifunctional properties of phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms grown on agro-industrial wastes in fermentation and soil conditions

One of the most studied approaches in solubilization of insoluble phosphates is the biological treatment of rock phosphates. In recent years, various techniques for rock phosphate solubilization have been proposed, with increasing emphasis on application of P-solubilizing microorganisms. The P-solubilizing activity is determined by the microbial biochemical ability to produce and release metabolites with metal-chelating functions. In a number of studies, we have shown that agro-industrial wastes can be efficiently used as substrates in solubilization of phosphate rocks. These processes were carried out employing various technologies including solid-state and submerged fermentations including immobilized cells. The review paper deals critically with several novel trends in exploring various properties of the above microbial/agro-wastes/rock phosphate systems. The major idea is to describe how a single P-solubilizing microorganism manifests wide range of metabolic abilities in different environments. In fermentation conditions, P-solubilizing microorganisms were found to produce various enzymes, siderophores, and plant hormones. Further introduction of the resulting biotechnological products into soil-plant systems resulted in significantly higher plant growth, enhanced soil properties, and biological (including biocontrol) activity. Application of these bio-products in bioremediation of disturbed (heavy metal contaminated and desertified) soils is based on another important part of their multifunctional properties.

Multifunctional properties of phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms grown on agro-industrial wastes in fermentation and soil conditions

One of the most studied approaches in solubilization of insoluble phosphates is the biological treatment of rock phosphates. In recent years, various techniques for rock phosphate solubilization have been proposed, with increasing emphasis on application of P-solubilizing microorganisms. The P-solubilizing activity is determined by the microbial biochemical ability to produce and release metabolites with metal-chelating functions. In a number of studies, we have shown that agro-industrial wastes can be efficiently used as substrates in solubilization of phosphate rocks. These processes were carried out employing various technologies including solid-state and submerged fermentations including immobilized cells. The review paper deals critically with several novel trends in exploring various properties of the above microbial/agro-wastes/rock phosphate systems. The major idea is to describe how a single P-solubilizing microorganism manifests wide range of metabolic abilities in different environments. In fermentation conditions, P-solubilizing microorganisms were found to produce various enzymes, siderophores, and plant hormones. Further introduction of the resulting biotechnological products into soil-plant systems resulted in significantly higher plant growth, enhanced soil properties, and biological (including biocontrol) activity. Application of these bio-products in bioremediation of disturbed (heavy metal contaminated and desertified) soils is based on another important part of their multifunctional properties.

Investigation of the dynamic stereochemistry of dimesityl-2,4,6-trimethoxyphenylmethane by complete lineshape analysis and 2D EXSY NMR spectroscopy

The static and dynamic stereochemistry of dimesityl-2,4,6-trimethoxyphenylmethane in solution was investigated by lineshape analysis of 1D NMR spectra and cross-peak amplitude processing in 2D EXSY spectra, recorded at variable temperatures. Previous studies on this propeller-shaped chiral compound show that the stereomer threshold interconversion is associated with helicity reversal and occurs through [1,2]- and [1,3]-two ring flips of one mesityl and the 2,4,6-trimethoxyphenyl rings. In the present study, the experimental rate constants of the [1,2]- and [1,3]-two ring flips, which are identical, were determined at various temperatures by combining quantitative 2D EXSY spectra processing and complete lineshape analysis (CLSA) of 1D NMR spectra. The latter were subjected to reference deconvolution and linear prediction in order to eliminate the lineshape distortions due to magnetic field inhomogeneity. The activation parameters of these ring flips were determined by an Eyring equation analysis of the temperature dependence of the rate constant. The experimentally determined activation enthalpy and entropy for the two-ring flips, and those obtained from theoretical ab initio calculations at different levels of theory and basis sets, were found to be in good agreement.

Sensitivität, Spezifität und Genauigkeit der transrektalen sonographischen Frühträchtigkeitsdiagnostik beim Schaf

Gegenstand und Ziel: Überprüfung der Sensitivität, Spezifität und Genauigkeit der transrektalen sonographischen Frühträchtigkeitsuntersuchung beim Schaf. Material und Methode: Die Untersuchung erfolgte an 126 Schafen der Rasse Pleven Black Head. Die in drei Untersuchungsgruppen (je n = 42) eingeteilten Tiere wurden mittels gestagenhaltiger Vaginalspangen und Gabe von 500 IE eCG zyklussynchronisiert. Es folgte eine laparoskopische Besamung mit aufgetautem Tiefgefriersperma 54–56 Stunden nach Entfernung der Vaginalspangen. Die transrektale sonographische Trächtigkeitsdiagnose (5 MHz) wurde 20 Tage (Gruppe 1), 25 Tage (Gruppe 2) bzw. 30 Tage (Gruppe 3) später durchgeführt. Die Resultate der sonographischen Trächtigkeitsdiagnostik wurden mit den Ablammergebnissen verglichen. Ergebnisse: Genauigkeit, Sensitivität und Spezifität ergaben sich wie folgt: Gruppe 1: 76,2%, 93,3% und 33,3%; Gruppe 2: 80,9%, 90,6% und 50%; Gruppe 3: 87,8%, 94,4% und 40%. Schlussfolgerung: Die transrektale Sonographie zur frühen Graviditätsdiagnose sollte beim Schaf am 30. Tag der Trächtigkeit durchgeführt werden.

Simultaneous P-solubilizing and biocontrol activity of microorganisms: potentials and future trends

Phosphate (P)-solubilizing microorganisms as a group form an important part of the microorganisms, which benefit plant growth and development. Growth promotion and increased uptake of phosphate are not the only mechanisms by which these microorganisms exert a positive effect on plants. Microbially mediated solubilization of insoluble phosphates through release of organic acids is often combined with production of other metabolites, which take part in biological control against soilborne phytopathogens. In vitro studies show the potential of P-solubilizing microorganisms for the simultaneous synthesis and release of pathogen-suppressing metabolites, mainly siderophores, phytohormones, and lytic enzymes. Further trends in this field are discussed, suggesting a number of biotechnological approaches through physiological and biochemical studies using various microorganisms.

Application of Aspergillus niger-treated agrowaste residue and Glomus mosseae for improving growth and nutrition of Trifolium repens in a Cd-contaminated soil

The microbial transformation of sugar beet (SB) agrowaste with or without rock-phosphate (RP) has utility for the improvement of plant growth in a Cd (5 microg g-1) artificially contaminated soil, particularly when the soil is co-inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungus Glomus mosseae isolated from a Cd-polluted area. Under such Cd-polluted conditions, the limited growth, mineral nutrition, symbiotic developments (nodulation and AM-colonization) and soil enzymatic activities were stimulated using SB or SB+RP as soil amendments and G. mosseae as inoculant. G. mosseae enhanced plant establishment in a higher extent in amended soil; it is probably due to the interactive effect increasing the potential fertility of such compounds and its ability for decreasing Cd transfer from soil to plant. The amount of Cd transferred from soil solution to biomass of AM-colonized plants ranged from 0.09 microg Cd g-1 (in SB+RP-amended soil) to 0.6 microg Cd g-1 (in non-amended soil). Nodule formation was more sensitive to Cd than AM-colonization, and both symbioses were stimulated in amended soils. Not only AM-colonization but also amendments were critical for plant growth and nutrition in Cd-polluted soil. The high effectiveness of AM inoculum increasing nutrients and decreasing Cd in amended soil indicated the positive interaction of these treatments in increasing plant tolerance to Cd contamination.