Biotechnological synthesis of 1,3-propanediol using Clostridium ssp.

1,3-Propanediol (PD) is an important chemical product which can be used for synthesis reactions, in particular, as a monomer for polycondensations to produce polyesters, polyethers and polyurethanes. It is produced by two methods, chemical synthesis and microbial conversion. Recently, the increasing interest in microbial conversion was observed. Glycerol is used as a substrate in this process and it may be fermented to 1,3-PD by, among others, Citrobacter ssp., Klebsiella ssp., Lactobacillus ssp., Enterobacter ssp. and Clostridium ssp. strains. The process of microbiological bioconversion pathway of glycerol to 1,3-PD is well known for a long time but microorganisms taking part in this fermentation are pathogenic. Thus, natural producers of 1,3-PD that are non-pathogenic and efficient enough, are still sought. This review deals with the case of 1,3-PD production and microbial formation of 1,3-PD, especially by Clostridium ssp. Moreover, it presents genetic engineering methods used in increasing microorganisms’ efficiency in the glycerol to 1,3 PD fermentation.Key words: 1,3-Propanediol, Clostridium ssp., fermentation, glycerol

Droplet size classification of air induction flat fan nozzles

Measurements were made of the droplet size for a series of air induction flat fan nozzles produced by Marian Mikołajczak Agro Technology (MMAT) and Coorstek. The MMAT nozzles, according to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard sizes, are typical single jet (long body, 37 mm) with 025, 03, and 04 orifice sizes; (short body, 21 mm) with 02, 025, 03 and 04 orifice sizes; and twin jet (short body, 21 mm) with 03 and 04 orifice sizes. Ceramic air induction flat fan nozzles of the Albuz AVI series (Coorstek, France) with the orifice size 01, 02 and 03 were tested. The sprays were described using the following droplet size parameters: D, D , D, relative span (RS), spray volume (%) in size fractions < 100 μm and 100÷200 μm. The sprays were also classified according to American Society of Agricultural Engineers (ASAE) standard S572.1 (ASAE 2009)

Application of Electrochemical Methods in Biosensing Technologies

Introducing biochemical factor to electronic devices have created a new branch of science. Recent development in biosensing technology enabled progress in pathogens detection. Currently, wide range of biomarkers (enzymes, peptides, DNA, microorganisms, etc. )recognize various target analytes, starting from basic metabolism changes to serious infections caused by pathogens. Improved sensitivity, selectivity and response time of sensors have instantly replaced traditional techniques. Easy handling, low production costs and miniaturization have met therapeutics need. Biosensing technologies are very strong point in telemedicine in public healthcare. This chapter will focus on electrochemical techniques for pathogens detection and show trending applications in biosensing technologies

Spider chitin: An Ultrafast Microwave-Assisted Method for Chitin Isolation from Caribena versicolor Spider Molt Cuticle

Chitin, as a fundamental polysaccharide in invertebrate skeletons, continues to be actively investigated, especially with respect to new sources and the development of effective methods for its extraction. Recent attention has been focused on marine crustaceans and sponges; however, the potential of spiders (order Araneae) as an alternative source of tubular chitin has been overlooked. In this work, we focused our attention on chitin from up to 12 cm-large Theraphosidae spiders, popularly known as tarantulas or bird-eating spiders. These organisms “lose” large quantities of cuticles during their molting cycle. Here, we present for the first time a highly effective method for the isolation of chitin from Caribena versicolor spider molt cuticle, as well as its identification and characterization using modern analytical methods. We suggest that the tube-like molt cuticle of this spider can serve as a naturally prefabricated and renewable source of tubular chitin with high potential for application in technology and biomedicine. © 2019 by the authors