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The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus plantarum as silage additives and their combinations on the physico-chemical and microbiological quality of Pennisetum purpureum cv. Mott silage and assess fermentation characteristics, digestibility, and in vitro gas production. The experiment used a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 5 replications. The treatments are: T0= dwarf elephant grass silage + 3% molasses, T1= T0 + S. cerevisiae, T2= T0 + L. plantarum, and T3= T0 + S. cerevisiae + L. plantarum. Variables measured were organoleptic, physical, microbial, nutrient composition, in vitro fermentation characteristics and nutrient digestibility, as well as total gas and methane productions. The result showed that all silages had good physical quality, low pH (<3.8) and NH3 content, and high fleigh point. Inoculants decreased the percentage of dry matter, crude protein, ether extract (p<0.05), increased crude fiber, and decreased the composition of nitrogen-free extract and non-fiber carbohydrate (p<0.05) but it was able to increase Ca and P. Total gas production of T0 was the highest among treatments, while the T3 had the lowest total gas and methane productions (p<0.05). The supplementation of S. cerevisiae and L. plantarum as a silage improved organoleptic, physical, and microbiological qualities. Although the nutrient composition did not increase significantly, the combination of 2 (two) inoculants was able to improve fermentation activity in the rumen, increase total volatile fatty acid (VFA), dry matter and organic matter digestibility, reduce total gas production and the ratio of methane gas production to VFA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-symbiotic N2-fixation would greatly increase the versatility of N-biofertilizers for sustainable agriculture. Genetic modification of diazotrophic bacteria has successfully enhanced NH4+ release. In this study, we compared the competitive fitness of A. vinelandii mutant strains, which allowed us to analyze the burden of NH4+ release under a broad dynamic range. Long-term competition assays under regular culture conditions confirmed a large burden for NH4+ release, exclusion by the wt strain, phenotypic instability, and loss of the ability to release NH4+. In contrast, co-inoculation in mild autoclaved soil showed a much longer co-existence with the wt strain and a stable NH4+ release phenotype. All genetically modified strains increased the N content and changed its chemical speciation in the soil. This study contributes one step forward towards bridging a knowledge gap between molecular biology laboratory research and the incorporation of N from the air into the soil in a molecular species suitable for plant nutrition, a crucial requirement for developing improved bacterial inoculants for economic and environmentally sustainable agriculture. Key points: • Genetic engineering for NH4+ excretion imposes a fitness burden on the culture medium • Large phenotypic instability for NH4+-excreting bacteria in culture medium • Lower fitness burden and phenotypic instability for NH4+-excreting bacteria in soil [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effects of biological silage additives with and without chemical salts on the fermentation parameters of whole plant corn silage. The experiment consisted of five treatments: two with lactic acid bacteria (LAB without chemical salts), two with combined additives (LAB + chemical salts), and a control. Firstly, control (C) and subsequently facultatively heterofermentative (A) and obligately heterofermentative (B) LAB (LAB1: L. plantarumA, L. brevisB, E. faeciumA; LAB2: L. plantarumA, L. buchneriB, P. pentosaceusA) were examined. After that, LABCHSE inclusive of obligately homofermentative (C) and facultatively heterofermentative (A) LAB (L. plantarumA, L. salivariusC, E. faeciumA, P. acidilacticiC) + chemical salts (sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate) + enzymes (cellulase, hemicellulase, pentosanase, amylase) were evaluated. The last variant LABCHS with LAB (L. plantarumA, E. faeciumA, P. acidilacticiC) + chemical salt (potassium sorbate) was consisted. After six weeks of storage, the results confirmed that the application of additives can affect the quality of the fermentation process by decreasing lactic acid as a result of heterofermentative bacteria fermentation, the most strongly marked additive based on L. buchneri. The addition of all additives increased the titratable acidity and acetic content, which manifested in a narrowed lactic/acetic acid ratio and an increased pH value because of heterofermentative bacteria fermentation. The addition of additives containing chemical salts affected the fermentation process more favourably compared to the addition of additives without chemical salts, particularly by inhibiting alcohol content.

The study aimed to develop a solid biofertilizer using Bacillus pumilus, focusing on auxin production to enhance plant drought tolerance. Methods involved immobilising B. pumilus in alginate-starch beads, focusing on microbial concentration, biopolymer types, and environmental conditions. The optimal formulation showed a diameter of 3.58 mm ± 0.18, a uniform size distribution after 15 h of drying at 30 °C, a stable bacterial concentration (1.99 × 109 CFU g−1 ± 1.03 × 109 over 180 days at room temperature), a high auxin production (748.8 µg g−1 ± 10.3 of IAA in 7 days), and a water retention capacity of 37% ± 4.07. In conclusion, this new formulation of alginate + starch + L-tryptophan + B. pumilus has the potential for use in crops due to its compelling water retention, high viability in storage at room temperature, and high auxin production, which provides commercial advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency and agronomic practicality of pre-inoculating soybean seeds with Bradyrhizobium elkanii (Lalfix Nitro) and a cell protector (Add-it) under field conditions. The trials were conducted in different Brazilian soil and climate regions (Brotas-SP, Caibaté-RS, Lavras-MG and Unaí-MG). The experimental design was randomized blocks, with six treatments and 10 replications. The treatments consisted of different inoculation times of the liquid inoculant Lalfix Nitro (4 mL kg-1 of seeds) + cell bioprotector Add-it (2 mL kg-1 of seeds): on the day of planting (LNT0), 25 days (LNT25) and 30 days (LNT30) before planting. In addition, a standard control was used consisting of a peat inoculant (Brasiliec TS IN BOX®; 60 g per 50 kg of seeds) (PI); an N-mineral control, with the recommended nitrogen fertilizer for the crop (NI+N); and a treatment with no fertilizer added and no inoculation (Control). In general, the pre-inoculation of LN + Add bioprotector up to 30 days before planting promoted a significant increase in nodulation. In addition, pre-inoculation ensured yield equal to or greater than peat inoculant and mineral N application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This editorial published in the journal Frontiers in Agronomy discusses the importance of maximizing nitrogen fixation in legumes for sustainable agriculture intensification. It addresses the challenges faced by agricultural systems in providing food for a growing population while maintaining soil and water quality and mitigating climate change. The editorial explores the potential of biological nitrogen fixation in legumes as an alternative strategy to increase nitrogen availability and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers. It also presents various research topics related to the symbiotic relationship between legumes and rhizobia and its application in sustainable agricultural systems. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of inoculating legumes with efficient rhizobia strains in areas where inefficient strains are likely to be present. The authors also discuss the use of elite microorganisms to improve the growth of alfalfa crops in acid soils and suggest that more research is needed to fully understand plant-microbe interactions and develop effective strategies for replacing synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. [Extracted from the article]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus plantarum as silage additives and their combinations on the physico-chemical and microbiological quality of Pennisetum purpureum cv. Mott silage and assess fermentation characteristics, digestibility, and in vitro gas production. The experiment used a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 5 replications. The treatments are: T0= dwarf elephant grass silage + 3% molasses, T1= T0 + S. cerevisiae, T2= T0 + L. plantarum, and T3= T0 + S. cerevisiae + L. plantarum. Variables measured were organoleptic, physical, microbial, nutrient composition, in vitro fermentation characteristics and nutrient digestibility, as well as total gas and methane productions. The result showed that all silages had good physical quality, low pH (

Edamame is a special soybean ( Glycine max (L.) Merr .) harvested as a vegetable when the seeds are immature (R6 and R7 stage) and have expanded to fill 80 to 90 percent of the pod width. The study was conducted in the experimental field of Federal Scientific Vegetable Center in the Moscow Region in 2020-2022 and Agro-biotechnological department, Agrarian and Technological Institute, RUDN University. The object of research was 3 accessions of soybean ( Glycine max L.): accession A, accession F, Hidaka and Lira. Before sowing, soybean seeds were inoculated with Optimays 400 ( Bradyrhizobium japonicum ) and Biobesta ( Sinorhizobium fredii ). In the field experiment, 10 soybean samples were taken from each plot at the stage of biological ripeness to determine plant height (cm), number of pods per plant, number of stems per plant, stem width (mm), average number of seeds per plant, weight of 1000 seeds (g) and yield (t/ha). The experiment was designed in a complete random block with a factorial arrangement. Thus, we had 4 accessions and 3 treatments (C - control, V1 - Bradyrhizobium japonicum and V2 - Sinorhizobium fredii ) with 3 replacations. The study showed that accession A had the highest average yield per hectare (2.70 t/ha) and weight of 1000 seeds (159 g). Under conditions of the Moscow region, variant V2 ( Sinorhizobium fredii ) had the highest average yield (2.57 t/ha) and weight of 1000 seeds (100.25 g). Therefore, more than 90 % of the results obtained for these two indicators are associated with the use of V2 treatment. For the rest of the studied indicators, no significant differences were found, and they did not affect the efficiency indicators. The combination of accession A and treatment V2 led to the highest average yield (2.99 t/ha). The product based on Sinorhizobium fredii showed the best indicators for all the studied samples.

Simple Summary: Soil salinity is increasing worldwide and is a major environmental issue that affects soil fertility and agricultural productivity. In this study, we show that the early events of the Mesorhizobium-chickpea symbiosis are negatively affected by salinity due to substantial changes in the composition of phenolic compounds of chickpea root exudates, which in turn affect the perception and response of its microsymbiont. In addition, the use of non-rhizobial nodule endophytes from legumes native to arid regions proved to be a promising strategy to improve legume growth and to enhance Mesorhizobium-chickpea symbiosis under salinity. In conclusion, this study helps to extend our knowledge on the detrimental effects of salinity on legume-rhizobium symbiosis and highlights the potential use of beneficial nodule bacteria as biological tools to maintain a healthier rhizobium–legume symbiosis, thus enhancing the growth of salt-sensitive legumes under salinity conditions. Symbiotic nitrogen fixation is a major contributor of N in agricultural ecosystems, but the establishment of legume–rhizobium symbiosis is highly affected by soil salinity. Our interest is focused on the use of non-rhizobial endophytes to assist the symbiosis between chickpea and its microsymbiont under salinity to avoid loss of production and fertility. Our aims were (1) to investigate the impact of salinity on both symbiotic partners; including on early events of the Mesorhizobium-chickpea symbiosis, and (2) to evaluate the potential of four non-rhizobial endophytes isolated from legumes native to arid regions (Phyllobacterium salinisoli, P. ifriqiyense, Xanthomonas translucens, and Cupriavidus respiraculi) to promote chickpea growth and nodulation under salinity. Our results show a significant reduction in chickpea seed germination rate and in the microsymbiont Mesorhizobium ciceri LMS-1 growth under different levels of salinity. The composition of phenolic compounds in chickpea root exudates significantly changed when the plants were subjected to salinity, which in turn affected the nod genes expression in LMS-1. Furthermore, the LMS-1 response to root exudate stimuli was suppressed by the presence of salinity (250 mM NaCl). On the contrary, a significant upregulation of exoY and otsA genes, which are involved in exopolysaccharide and trehalose biosynthesis, respectively, was registered in salt-stressed LMS-1 cells. In addition, chickpea co-inoculation with LMS-1 along with the consortium containing two non-rhizobial bacterial endophytes, P. salinisoli and X. translucens, resulted in significant improvement of the chickpea growth and the symbiotic performance of LMS-1 under salinity. These results indicate that this non-rhizobial endophytic consortium may be an appropriate ecological and safe tool to improve chickpea growth and its adaptation to salt-degraded soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-microbe interactions in the rhizosphere are determinants of plant health, productivity, and soil fertility. Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) are bacteria that can improve plant growth and protect plants from diseases and abiotic stresses through a wide variety of mechanisms; those that establish close associations with plants, such as endophytes, may be more successful in promoting plant growth. Several important bacterial traits, such as biological nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, ACC deaminase activity, and production of siderophores and phytohormones, can be evaluated as plant growth promoting (PGP) traits. Bacterial inoculants can contribute to increasing agronomic efficiency by reducing production costs and environmental pollution, since the use of chemical fertilizers can be reduced or eliminated if the inoculants are efficient. For bacterial inoculants to be successful in improving plant growth and productivity, several processes involved can influence the efficiency of inoculation, such as plant root exudation, bacterial colonization in the roots, and soil health. This review presents an overview of the importance of soil-plant-microbe interactions for the development of efficient inoculants, since PGPB are widely studied microorganisms, which represent a very diverse group of easily accessible beneficial bacteria. Interactions between plants and bacteria occur through symbiotic, endophytic or associative processes with varying degrees of proximity to the roots and surrounding soil. Endophytic PGPBs are good candidates for inoculants because they colonize roots and create a favorable environment for their development and function. Non-symbiotic endophytic relationships occur within the intercellular spaces of plant tissues, which contain high levels of carbohydrates, amino acids and inorganic nutrients (Bacon and Hinton, 2006). The success and efficiency of PGPBs as inoculants for agricultural crops is influenced by several factors, including the ability of these bacteria to colonize plant roots, plant root exudation, and soil health. PGPB root colonization efficiency is closely associated with microbial competition and survival in soil, as well as modulation of the expression of several genes and cell-cell communication through quorum sensing (Danhorn and Fuqua, 2007; Meneses et al., 2011; Alquéres et al., 2013; Plant roots react to different environmental conditions by secreting a wide range of compounds that interfere with the plant-bacteria interaction, being considered an important factor in the efficiency of inoculants (Bais et al., 2006; Cai et al., 2009, 2012; Carvalhais et al., 2013). Soil health is another important factor that affects inoculation efficiency, due to several characteristics such as type. of soil, nutrient pool and toxic metal concentrations, soil moisture, microbial diversity and soil alterations caused by management practices. In research developed by AGROSAVIA, different microorganisms were evaluated, with contrasting results: Bacillus amyloliquefaciens demonstrated a completely different pattern to Pseudomonas fluorescens. Its colonization was external to the root, generating bacterial clusters, clusters or agglomerates through a matrix or biofilm. Something important to highlight in Bacillus amyloliquefaciens is that in the first post-inoculation times (T0 and T1) the bacterial concentration and signal was higher, contrasting with the final post-inoculation times (T2, T3 and T4) of this study, where very reduced concentrations and signals were evident. The absolute control without microbial inoculum did not show a signal at any of the times evaluated. In our study it was confirmed that the colonization pattern of Pseudomonas fluorescens is endophytic, that is, it can colonize the interior of the roots (Pseudomonas fluorescens) showed few signs and colonization in the roots in the early times T0 and T1 in contrast to from time T2 (96 h) the bacteria began endophytic colonization of the root. It is important to highlight that the longer the time, the greater the concentration and signal of the bacteria within the root, after 15 days post inoculation. Without microbial inoculum, no signal was evident at any of the times evaluated. The contrasting results in the colonization patterns of the two bacteria studied here raise many questions. Bacillus amyloliquefaciens colonizes externally and begins with very copious growth but decreases in the final evaluation times. Otherwise, Pseudomonas starts very timidly, but its interaction is more subtle and certain, because it manages to enter the plant and increases the number of bacteria in the intermediate and final sampling times. Some microbial species may disappear or be drastically reduced while others become more abundant. We suggest that somehow the interaction and exchange of nutrients in the case of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (external to the root) could be exhausted and that they have a limited temporality. But in the case of Pseudomonas fluorescens, this bacterium manages to enter the plant and probably uses the entire energy, enzymatic and nutrient battery of its host, given that it is already inside the plant. The bacterial cell surface plays a key role in bacterial aggregation, which in turn promotes bacterial dispersal, survival, and the ability to adhere to plant surfaces. It is well documented that bacterial auto aggregation, biofilm development, endophytic colonization and the relationship of these processes with plant colonization depend on both surface bacterial factors and extracellular factors. However, the two rhizobacteria with such contrasting colonization patterns in banana possibly support individual advantages, each in its own establishment style. These rhizobacteria significantly increased growth parameters such as height, pseudostem thickness, leaf area, fresh weight and dry weight in banana seedlings cv. Williams, compared to the absolute control (without microorganisms). Additionally, the bacteria were able to colonize banana roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract Introduction Inoculation of plants with beneficial microorganisms may improve plant performance yet suffers from efficacy variability. A solution might be the combined application of different inoculants as consortium. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of single or combined inoculation of Trichoderma harzianum, strain TGFG411, and a consortium of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on plant growth, and native microbial communities (here bacteria/archaea, fungi and AMF) in root‐associated soil (RAS) and rhizosphere (RH), that is, soil loosely or tightly attached to the roots, respectively. Materials and Methods A greenhouse experiment was carried out with non‐sterile agricultural soil and the model crop maize, which was single inoculated with either TGFG411 or AMF or received a combined inoculation of TGFG411 + AMF. Control plants received only water. Seven weeks after the second AMF inoculation, the plant growth promotion capacity of the inoculants was measured based on shoot and root parameters. Furthermore, RAS and RH microbiota (fungi including AMF, bacteria and archaea) were assessed via a combination of different cultivation‐dependent, microscopic and DNA‐based methods. Results After 7 weeks of maize growth, both single and combined inoculation of AMF and TGFG411 enhanced shoot dry weight and led to a significant reduction in root biomass. The TGFG411 strain successfully established in the soil. However, no definite evidence for the establishment of the inoculated AMF was found. Single or combined inoculation of TGFG411 and AMF modified the composition of total bacterial in the RH, whereas modulated total fungal communities in the RAS. Conclusion The combined inoculation did not result in a significant improvement of plant performance compared with single inoculation likely due to optimal nutrient supply. However, samples receiving the combined inoculation exhibited a distinct modulation of the native RAS/RH microbiota, which may influence the inoculant efficacy under less favourable conditions.

At present, the use of biofertilizers and protein plants in the nutrition of pastures and forage has increased. The investigation was carried out in the University Center of the municipality of Cumanayagua, county of Cienfuegos, Cuba with the objective of evaluating the response of Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) De Wit to the inoculation of different arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) strains. The experiment was carried out in polyethylene bags. The experiment used a random blocks design with three replicates and the following treatments: #1. Soil (Control treatment, without inoculation and NPK application), #2. Soil + inoculation with the AMF strain F. mosseae/INCAM-2, #3. Soil + inoculation with the AMF strain G. cubense/INCAM-4) and #4. Soil + NPK fertilization at plant establishment application of NPK (25, 40 y 120 kg ha-1 de N, P2O5 y K20) + N at each cut at 70% of the initial dose. The inoculation with AMF was simultaneous for all treatments. A establishment cut and five successive cuts were performed, with 51.33 average days between them. The biomass production, the content of gross protein of L. leucocephala in each harvest and the cumulative total, as well as mycorrhizal effectiveness, were quantified. L. leucocephala positively responded to F. mosseae/INCAM-2 inoculation. Biomass production for cut increased between 31,50 % (Treatment #2) y 19,40 % (Treatment #3) with respect to control treatment. Inoculation with F. mosseae/INCAM-2 showed higher mycorrhizal effectiveness. The highest value in gross protein was obtained in the variant with mineral fertilization and the inoculated variants overcame the control treatment, with better performance than treatment # 2 ( Soil+ Funneliformis mosseae/INCAM-2).

Brewers' spent grain (BSG) is primarily recycled as livestock feed due to its high fiber content, undegradable protein, and water-soluble vitamins. However, BSG composting represents a possible alternative to organic waste management. Adding a microbial consortium further enhances the agronomical properties of the compost intended for fertilizing applications. Microbial-based fertilizers (plant growth-promoting microorganisms, PGPM) are a means to mitigate the adverse environmental impacts of excessive or improper chemical fertilizer use, enhance the direct or indirect uptake of nutrients by plants, and add value to food waste. In a short-term pot experiment on iceberg lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), this study assessed the effects of compost and pelletized compost from brewers' spent grain, both enriched with a microbial consortium. In a randomized block experiment, this study compared four organic BSG fertilizers to chemical fertilizer (NPK) and an unfertilized control treatment. The investigation indicates that BSG compost and BSG pelleted compost, with and without bio-inoculum, in general, are comparable to mineral fertilizer treatment; lettuce fresh weight was higher in pots amended with bioprocessed BSG, associated with more significant growth of soil LAB, fungi, and actinomycetes. The investigation outcomes support composting as an alternative recycling process for producing PGM for agricultural applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing interest in using rhizobia as inoculants in sustainable agricultural systems has prompted the screening of rhizobia species for beneficial traits that enhance nodulation and nitrogen fixation under abiotic stressed conditions. This study reports phenotypic and phylogenetic characterization of rhizobia strains previously isolated from the root nodules of several indigenous and exotic legumes growing in South Africa and other countries. The Rhizobia strains were screened for their ability to tolerate various abiotic stresses (temperature 16, 28, and 36 °C; acidity/alkalinity pH 5, 7, and 9; heavy metals 50, 100, and 150 mM AlCl3.6H2O; and salinity 50, 100, and 150 mM NaCl). Phylogenetic characterization of the isolates was determined using multilocus sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA, recA, acdS, exoR, nodA , and nodC genes. The analysis indicated that the isolates are phylogenetically related to Sinorhizobium, Bradyrhizobium, Rhizobium, Mesorhizobium , and Aminobacter genera and exhibited significant variations in their tolerance to abiotic stresses. Amid the increasing threats of the global stresses, these current results provide baseline information in the selection of rhizobia for use as inoculants under extreme temperatures, acidity/alkalinity, and salinity stress conditions in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background With its high nutritional value and productivity, Italian ryegrass as a biomass feedstock constantly supplies rumen degradable nitrogen and digestible fiber to ruminants. However, biofuel production is easily reduced during ensiling due to the high-moisture content of Italian ryegrass, leading to economic losses. Lactic acid bacteria inoculants could improve lignocellulosic degradation and fermentation quality and decrease dry matter loss during the bioprocessing of silage. Therefore, this study analyzed the effects of Lactobacillus buchneri TSy1-3 (HE), Lactobacillus rhamnosus BDy3-10 (HO), and the combination of HE and HO (M) on fermentation quality, bacterial community and metabolome in high-moisture Italian ryegrass silage during ensiling. Results The results showed that the pH value was significantly lower in the HO groups than in the other treatments at the end of ensiling, and the dry matter and acetic acid contents were significantly higher in the HO group than in the other inoculated groups. All inoculants decreased the diversity of the bacterial community and significantly increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus. Inoculation with HO significantly improved the concentrations of organic acids, dipeptides, ferulic acid, apigenin, and laricitrin. Compared with Lactobacillus buchneri TSy1-3 (HE), HO significantly upregulated the flavonoid compounds in the flavone and flavonol biosynthesis pathway. Conclusions Overall, these findings suggest that inoculation with HO was beneficial for the development of Italian ryegrass as a biomass feedstock, improving fermentation quality, accelerating changes in bacterial community composition and increasing biofunctional metabolites in high-moisture Italian ryegrass silage.

The aluminium composites have gained greater attention, especially in wear resistant applications. However, reinforcing the ceramic particulates in the aluminium matrix is a major factor influencing the tribological characteristics. In this regard, the influence of Fly Ash inoculants on the uniform distribution of reinforcements and the subsequent tribological characteristics are studied. The composite specimens are produced by reinforcing different wt.% (in the range of 3 to 9 wt%) of Tungsten Carbide (WC) and the Fly Ash (FA) in Aluminium AA 5083 matrix by ultrasonic assisted stir casting in a controlled environment. The wt.% of the reinforcements are chosen based on initial trials and related literature reviews. The stir cast aluminium composites are machined in accordance with the specimen standards to accomplish the pin on disc - adhesive wear following the ASTM G99 standards. The results of the wear test clearly depicts that the increase in the wt.% of fly ash upto a threshold limit (6 wt%) improves the wear behaviour of the composites. This is majorly due to the homogeneity brought about by the fly ash inoculants in dispersing the ceramic reinforcements of WC uniformly in the matrix phase. The experimental findings are also ascertained by the statistical validations and correlated. The results of the experiments and the statistical validations and the outcomes of the optimization will be a base for the use of the composites for wear resistant applications, since the wear of the aluminium composite castings are of prime concern for advanced industrial uses. Further, Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Machine Learning (ML) models are evolved to predict the tribological characteristics of the composite specimens. The predictions of these models are found to be in clore correlation to the experimental outcomes.

Despite the numerous benefits plants receive from probiotics, maintaining consistent results across applications is still a challenge. Cultivationindependent methods associated with reduced sequencing costs have considerably improved the overall understanding of microbial ecology in the plant environment. As a result, now, it is possible to engineer a consortium of microbes aiming for improved plant health. Such synthetic microbial communities (SynComs) contain carefully chosen microbial species to produce the desired microbiome function. Microbial biofilm formation, production of secondary metabolites, and ability to induce plant resistance are some of the microbial traits to consider when designing SynComs. Plant-associated microbial communities are not assembled randomly. Ecological theories suggest that these communities have a defined phylogenetic organization structured by general community assembly rules. Using machine learning, we can study these rules and target microbial functions that generate desired plant phenotypes. Well-structured assemblages are more likely to lead to a stable SynCom that thrives under environmental stressors as compared with the classical selection of single microbial activities or taxonomy. However, ensuring microbial colonization and long-term plant phenotype stability is still one of the challenges to overcome with SynComs, as the synthetic community may change over time with microbial horizontal gene transfer and retained mutations. Here, we explored the advances made in SynCom research regarding plant health, focusing on bacteria, as they are the most dominant microbial form compared with other members of the microbiome and the most commonly found in SynCom studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, the use of biofertilizers and protein plants in the nutrition of pastures and forage has increased. The investigation was carried out in the University Center of the municipality of Cumanayagua, county of Cienfuegos, Cuba with the objective of evaluating the response of Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) De Wit to the inoculation of different arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) strains. The experiment was carried out in polyethylene bags. The experiment used a random blocks design with three replicates and the following treatments: #1. Soil (Control treatment, without inoculation and NPK application), #2. Soil + inoculation with the AMF strain F. mosseae/INCAM-2, #3. Soil + inoculation with the AMF strain G. cubense/INCAM-4) and #4. Soil + NPK fertilization at plant establishment application of NPK (25, 40 y 120 kg ha-1 de N, P2O5 y K20) + N at each cut at 70% of the initial dose. The inoculation with AMF was simultaneous for all treatments. A establishment cut and five successive cuts were performed, with 51.33 average days between them. The biomass production, the content of gross protein of L. leucocephala in each harvest and the cumulative total, as well as mycorrhizal effectiveness, were quantified. L. leucocephala positively responded to F. mosseae/INCAM-2 inoculation. Biomass production for cut increased between 31,50 % (Treatment #2) y 19,40 % (Treatment #3) with respect to control treatment. Inoculation with F. mosseae/INCAM-2 showed higher mycorrhizal effectiveness. The highest value in gross protein was obtained in the variant with mineral fertilization and the inoculated variants overcame the control treatment, with better performance than treatment # 2 (Soil+ Funneliformis mosseae/INCAM-2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alfalfa silage fermentation quality, metabolome, bacterial interactions, and successions as well as their predicted metabolic pathways were explored under different dry matter contents (DM) and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) inoculations. Silages were prepared from alfalfa with DM contents of 304 (LDM) and 433 (HDM) g/kg fresh weight and inoculated with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum, LP), Pediococcus pentosaceus (P. pentosaceus, PP), or sterile water (control). The silages were stored at a simulated hot climate condition (35°C) and sampled at 0, 7, 14, 30, and 60 days of fermentation. The results revealed that HDM significantly improved the alfalfa silage quality and altered microbial community composition. The GC-TOF-MS analysis discovered 200 metabolites in both LDM and HDM alfalfa silage, mainly consisting of amino acids, carbohydrates, fatty acids, and alcohols. Compared with LP and control, PP-inoculated silages had increased concentrations of lactic acid (P < 0.05) and essential amino acids (threonine and tryptophan) as well as decreased pH, putrescine content, and amino acid metabolism. However, alfalfa silage inoculated with LP had higher proteolytic activities than control and PP-inoculated silage, as revealed by a higher concentration of ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and also upregulated amino acid and energy metabolism. HDM content and P. pentosaceus inoculation significantly altered the composition of alfalfa silage microbiota from 7 to 60 days of ensiling. Conclusively, these results indicated that inoculation with PP exhibited great potential in enhancing the fermentation of silage with LDM and HDM via altering the microbiome and metabolome of the ensiled alfalfa, which could help in understanding and improving the ensiling practices under hot climate conditions. Key points: • HDM improved fermentation quality and declined putrescine content of alfalfa silage • P. pentosaceus inoculation enhanced the fermentation quality of alfalfa silage • P. pentosaceus is an ideal inoculant for alfalfa silage under high temperature [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With its high nutritional value and productivity, Italian ryegrass as a biomass feedstock constantly supplies rumen degradable nitrogen and digestible fiber to ruminants. However, biofuel production is easily reduced during ensiling due to the high-moisture content of Italian ryegrass, leading to economic losses. Lactic acid bacteria inoculants could improve lignocellulosic degradation and fermentation quality and decrease dry matter loss during the bioprocessing of silage. Therefore, this study analyzed the effects of Lactobacillus buchneri TSy1-3 (HE), Lactobacillus rhamnosus BDy3-10 (HO), and the combination of HE and HO (M) on fermentation quality, bacterial community and metabolome in high-moisture Italian ryegrass silage during ensiling. Results: The results showed that the pH value was significantly lower in the HO groups than in the other treatments at the end of ensiling, and the dry matter and acetic acid contents were significantly higher in the HO group than in the other inoculated groups. All inoculants decreased the diversity of the bacterial community and significantly increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus. Inoculation with HO significantly improved the concentrations of organic acids, dipeptides, ferulic acid, apigenin, and laricitrin. Compared with Lactobacillus buchneri TSy1-3 (HE), HO significantly upregulated the flavonoid compounds in the flavone and flavonol biosynthesis pathway. Conclusions: Overall, these findings suggest that inoculation with HO was beneficial for the development of Italian ryegrass as a biomass feedstock, improving fermentation quality, accelerating changes in bacterial community composition and increasing biofunctional metabolites in high-moisture Italian ryegrass silage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the effect of an inoculation, Lelliottia sp., on the corn straw compost's physico-chemical properties, composition, and the succession of bacterial community structure. The compost community composition and succession changed after Lelliottia sp. inoculation. Inoculation increased the bacterial community diversity and abundance in the compost to promote composting. The inoculated group entered the thermophilic stage on the first day, lasting 8 days. Judging the pile maturity based on the carbon:nitrogen ratio and germination index values, the inoculated group reached the maturity standard, which was 6 days faster than the control group. The relationship between environmental factors and bacterial communities was comprehensively analyzed using redundancy analysis. Temperature and carbon:nitrogen ratio were the main environmental factors driving the succession of bacterial communities, to provide basic information on the changes of physicochemical indexes and bacterial community succession in Lelliottia sp. inoculated maize straw composting, providing assistance for practical composting applications of this strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a review on the influence of dispersed refractory compounds inoculation into the weld pool on weld metal microstructure formation in low-alloyed high-strength steels. Primary structure formation process features are considered in the refractory nonmetallic inclusions presence in the liquid metal, as well as on the interface of 5-dendrites and y-phase. of The inoculant influence possibilities on the bainite transformations temperature range, microstructural components formation with higher brittle fracture resistance, and weld metal toughness values improvement are shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a review on the influence of dispersed refractory compounds inoculation into the weld pool on weld metal microstructure formation in low-alloyed high-strength steels. Primary structure formation process features are considered in the refractory nonmetallic inclusions presence in the liquid metal, as well as on the interface of δ-dendrites and γ-phase. of The inoculant influence possibilities on the bainite transformations temperature range, microstructural components formation with higher brittle fracture resistance, and weld metal toughness values improvement are shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bellucia imperialis is one of the most abundant pioneer tree species in anthropized areas of the Central Amazon, and has ecological importance for the environmental resilience of phosphorus (P)-depleted areas. Thus, we investigated whether B. imperialis depends on symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) to grow and establish under the edaphic stresses of low nutrient content and low surface moisture retention capacity of the substrate. We tried three AMF inoculation treatments: (1) CON—no mycorrhizae; (2) MIX—with AMF from pure collection cultures, and (3) NAT—with native AMF, combined with five doses of P via a nutrient solution. All CON treatment seedlings died without AMF, showing the high mycorrhizal dependence of B. imperialis. Increasing P doses significantly decreased the leaf area and shoot and root biomass growth for both the NAT and MIX treatments. Increasing P doses did not affect spore number or mycorrhizal colonization, but decreased the diversity of AMF communities. Some species of the AMF community showed plasticity, enabling them to withstand shortages of and excess P. B. imperialis was shown to be sensitive to excess P, promiscuous, dependent on AMF, and tolerant of scarce nutritional resources, highlighting the need to inoculate seedlings to reforest impacted areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifarious plant growth-promoting Bacillus strains recovered from rhizospheric soils of the Indo Gangetic plains (IGPs) were identified as Bacillus licheniformis MNNITSR2 and Bacillus velezensis MNNITSR18 based on their biochemical characteristics and 16S rDNA gene analysis. Both strains exhibited the ability to produce IAA, siderophores, ammonia, lytic enzymes, HCN production, and phosphate solubilization capability and strongly inhibited the growth of phytopathogens such as Rhizoctonia solani and Fusariun oxysporum in vitro. In addition, these strains are also able to grow at a high temperature of 50 °C and tolerate up to 10–15% NaCl and 25% PEG 6000. The results of the pot experiment showed that individual seed inoculation and the coinoculation of multifarious plant growth promoting (PGP) Bacillus strains (SR2 and SR18) in rice fields significantly enhanced plant height, root length volume, tiller numbers, dry weight, and yield compared to the untreated control. This indicates that these strains are potential candidates for use as PGP inoculants/biofertilizers to increase rice productivity under field conditions for IGPs in Uttar Pradesh, India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of inoculants added to precursor powder is a method of influencing grain growth during fabrication. Niobium carbide (NbC) particles have been added to IN718 gas atomised powder for additive manufacturing via laser-blown-powder directed-energy-deposition (LBP-DED). The collected data in this study reveals the effects of the NbC particles on the grain structure, texture and elastic properties, and oxidative properties of LBP-DED IN718 in the As-DED and heat-treated conditions. The microstructure was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Resonant ultrasound spectroscopy (RUS) was used to measure the elastic properties and phase transitions during standard heat treatments. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is used to probe the oxidative properties at 650°C.

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation is a major contributor of N in agricultural ecosystems, but the establishment of legume–rhizobium symbiosis is highly affected by soil salinity. Our interest is focused on the use of non-rhizobial endophytes to assist the symbiosis between chickpea and its microsymbiont under salinity to avoid loss of production and fertility. Our aims were (1) to investigate the impact of salinity on both symbiotic partners; including on early events of the Mesorhizobium-chickpea symbiosis, and (2) to evaluate the potential of four non-rhizobial endophytes isolated from legumes native to arid regions (Phyllobacterium salinisoli, P. ifriqiyense, Xanthomonas translucens, and Cupriavidus respiraculi) to promote chickpea growth and nodulation under salinity. Our results show a significant reduction in chickpea seed germination rate and in the microsymbiont Mesorhizobium ciceri LMS-1 growth under different levels of salinity. The composition of phenolic compounds in chickpea root exudates significantly changed when the plants were subjected to salinity, which in turn affected the nod genes expression in LMS-1. Furthermore, the LMS-1 response to root exudate stimuli was suppressed by the presence of salinity (250 mM NaCl). On the contrary, a significant upregulation of exoY and otsA genes, which are involved in exopolysaccharide and trehalose biosynthesis, respectively, was registered in salt-stressed LMS-1 cells. In addition, chickpea co-inoculation with LMS-1 along with the consortium containing two non-rhizobial bacterial endophytes, P. salinisoli and X. translucens, resulted in significant improvement of the chickpea growth and the symbiotic performance of LMS-1 under salinity. These results indicate that this non-rhizobial endophytic consortium may be an appropriate ecological and safe tool to improve chickpea growth and its adaptation to salt-degraded soils.

ABSTRACT: Silage inoculants are commonly used as a tool to improve the fermentation and aerobic stability of corn silage fed to dairy cows. However, their effectiveness can be inconsistent. Our objective was to determine the effect of the dry matter (DM) content of freshly chopped whole-plant corn on its microbial community as affected by an inoculant containing Lentilactobacillus hilgardii, Lentilactobacillus buchneri, and Pediococcus pentosaceus on improving the aerobic stability of silage. Whole-plant corn was harvested at low (31.80%, LDM), medium (33.32%, MDM), or high (39.44%, HDM) DM content and treated with nothing (CTR) or an inoculant (INO) containing L. hilgardii CNCM I-4785 at 150,000 cfu/g fresh forage, L. buchneri NCIMB 40788 at 150,000 cfu/g fresh forage, P. pentosaceus NCIMB12455 at 100,000 cfu/g of fresh forage, β-glucanase (5,750 IU/g), and xylanase (30,000 IU/g) and ensiled for 20 and 60 d. Data were analyzed as a completely randomized design in a 3-by-2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Fresh LDM forage had a higher concentration of reducing sugars, a less rich, diverse, and even bacterial community, and greater relative abundance of Saccharomycetales than MDM and HDM forages. Silages at 20 and 60 d, inoculated LDM had a more modest proliferation of culturable lactic acid bacteria than inoculated MDM. At 20 d, regardless of treatment, LDM had greater concentrations of lactic and acetic acids. Also at 20 d, LDM had lower numbers of culturable yeasts but greater relative abundance of Enterobacteriaceae than MDM and HDM. For silage at 20 d, HDM silage was more aerobically stable than LDM and MDM and inoculation improved aerobic stability 1.8-fold compared with CTR. For silage at 60 d, there was an interaction between DM content and inoculation. The improvements in stability by inoculation, compared with CTR, were greater in MDM (261 vs. 41 h) and HDM (320 vs. 66 h) silages than in LDM (85 vs. 46 h). The lower DM content and possible slower pH decline in LDM might have facilitated the development of undesirable bacteria and coupled with its greater concentration of reducing sugars and lactic and acetic acids, which are substrates for aerobic microorganisms, might explain the more modest improvements in aerobic stability from inoculation in LDM compared with MDM and HDM. Our findings suggest that the DM content of whole-plant corn affected its epiphytic microbial community and the effectiveness of the inoculant, which improved aerobic stability at all DM but to a greater extent in HDM and MDM than in LDM, especially after 60 d of ensiling.

Simple Summary: Partially efficient and inefficient rhizobia strains can decrease biological nitrogen fixation in legumes, especially when not inoculated. This work shows the high nodulation competitiveness in Trifolium repens of two strains with intermediate nitrogen fixation capacity. The genome sequence of one of them resulted in the first identification of Rhizobium redzepovicii as a T. repens symbiont. The analysis of symbiotic genes of different Rhizobium sp. capable of nodulating T. repens evidences the horizontal transfer of genes from efficient to inefficient strains, leading to a strain with intermediate efficiency. For the first time, sequencing, and analysis of the genome of the rhizobium used as clover inoculant in Uruguay confirmed that it is a strain belonging to R. leguminosarum phylogenetically close to bv. viciae. The search for hrrP-like genes in different Rhizobium species shows their presence in the chromosome and plasmids. This is interesting because hrrP encodes a metallopeptidase of the M16A family whose activity is involved in symbiotic efficiency. Our results highlight the need for farmers to make an effort in seed inoculation to improve clover yields and mitigate the effect of parasitic and low-efficiency strains present in soils. In Uruguayan soils, populations of native and naturalized rhizobia nodulate white clover. These populations include efficient rhizobia but also parasitic strains, which compete for nodule occupancy and hinder optimal nitrogen fixation by the grassland. Nodulation competitiveness assays using gusA-tagged strains proved a high nodule occupancy by the inoculant strain U204, but this was lower than the strains with intermediate efficiencies, U268 and U1116. Clover biomass production only decreased when the parasitic strain UP3 was in a 99:1 ratio with U204, but not when UP3 was at equal or lower numbers than U204. Based on phylogenetic analyses, strains with different efficiencies did not cluster together, and U1116 grouped with the parasitic strains. Our results suggest symbiotic gene transfer from an effective strain to U1116, thereby improving its symbiotic efficiency. Genome sequencing of U268 and U204 strains allowed us to assign them to species Rhizobium redzepovicii, the first report of this species nodulating clover, and Rhizobium leguminosarun, respectively. We also report the presence of hrrP- and sapA-like genes in the genomes of WSM597, U204, and U268 strains, which are related to symbiotic efficiency in rhizobia. Interestingly, we report here chromosomally located hrrP-like genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Winter cereal silages are becoming a crucial component of dairy nutrition for Mediterranean countries, partially replacing maize silage even in high-producing cows. Concerns regarding the definition of their final quality and the potential for aerobic deterioration, leading to loss of dry matter, feed intake, and milk yield, need to be investigated. We evaluate the effect of different ensiling conditions, including the use of inoculants and freshly harvested plant composition, on the final silage quality, and the most relevant risk factors associated with the silage's aerobic deterioration. The dry matter at harvest affected the entire final silage quality, and acetic acid varies between the control (pure water) and the hetero-/homofermentative. The aerobic stability for all samples was 59.2 ± 23.6 h without statistical differences within the thesis, ensuring a sufficient time for a convenient silo unload rate. Winter cereal silages can suffer from an inadequate fermentative path which can lead to aerobic instability. We evaluate the pre-ensiled conditions influencing the final fermentative quality and its aerobic stability. We studied the use of hetero/homofermentative inoculants on two early-harvest wheat samples (312 and 348 g/kg of dry matter—DM levels) undergoing three ensiling delays. The fermentative profiles were evaluated during the first ten d of ensiling, at 60 d and after 7 and 14 d of aerobic exposure. Aerobic stability was recorded during fourteen d after the silo opening. Significant (p < 0.05) differences of the final fermentative profile were related mainly to DM levels at harvest, while the use of the inoculant affected only the acetic acid significantly. Finally, the sealing delay did not significantly affect the silage fermentative profile. The overall aerobic stability was 59.2 ± 23.6 h, and cumulative temperatures were lower than 438 for seven d of aerobic exposure and higher than 1526 for 14 d. Although the homofermentative inoculants reduced the counts of yeasts in the final silage for the earlier harvested wheat, the other samples showed yeasts counts of ~4.9 Log10 colony-forming units/g, with the presence of spoilage fungi (Pichia and Geotricum). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is growing interest in using plant-beneficial microorganisms to partially replace chemicals and help reduce the environmental impact of agriculture. Formulated microbial products or inoculants for agriculture contain single strains or a consortium of live microbes, well characterized and biosafe, which can contribute to the growth, health, and development of a plant host. This concept conforms to the definition of probiotics. However, some plant-growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) have been considered a category of biostimulants since some years ago, despite the traditional concept of biostimulants involves substances or materials with no fertilizer value, which in minute amounts promote plant growth. The inclusion of PGPMs together with substances has also involved a significant distortion of the classical concept of biostimulants. Regulations such as the recent EU Fertilizing Products Regulation (EU No. 2019/1009) have incorporated the new definition of biostimulants and included microbials as a subcategory of biostimulants. We discuss that this regulation and the forthcoming European harmonized standards disregard some key features of microbial products, such as the live, true biological nature of their active principles. The factors that determine the complex functional compatibility of plant–microbe associations, and important biosafety issues that concern the intentional release of microbes into the environment, seem to be also ignored. We anticipate that by equating microbials to chemicals, the biological nature of microbial products and their specific requirements will be underestimated, with pernicious consequences for their future development and success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current work focuses on the manufacturing of aluminium AA 6061 composites and its tribological characterization. This is achieved by reinforcing the matrix with red mud. However, the uniform dispersion of red mud requires ultrasonic assisted stir casting and the use of optimum wt.% of TiO2 inoculants. In this regard, the composition of red mud is fixed at 2 wt.%, since the addition of red mud beyond 2 wt.% results in the agglomeration, while the wt.% of TiO2 inoculants is varied from 2 wt.% to 6 wt.%. The wear tests are conducted as per the L9- Orthogonal Array (OA) for a load range of 10 N to 30 N, sliding distance of 500 m to 2500 m, disk rotation speed of 200 RPM to 600 RPM. The regression coefficients are more than 0.9 and close to unity and the error between the experimental outcomes and statistical values are within the tolerance band. The SWR and COF is minimized for 2 wt.% of red mud, 4 wt.% of TiO2, beyond which there is a slight increase in the wear of the composites attributed to the agglomeration of the reinforcments in certain localized regions and the presence of voids in other regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In a first study, the capacity of lactic bacteria to accumulate biomass in different culture media and temperatures was tested and the biosynthesis parameters were established. In the second study, the strains producing the highest quantity of biomass and determining the most rapid pH drop in culture medium were conditioned in solid supports. The obtained solid products containing lactic bacteria were used to inoculate different types of forages. Ensilage was carried out in laboratory silos made from O2-impermeable plastic flasks, vacuumed using a vacuum pump. The experiment was 2 x 2 factorial with two types of forage (alfalfa and sorghum), each of them inoculated and not inoculated with lactic bacteria. The evolution of lactic bacteria, pH value, and the concentration in volatile acids was verified. In the third experiment, lactic bacteria were used to inoculate silages in farm conditions. The obtained results recommend the tested strain for the improvement of preserving conditions and nutritive value in ensiled forages.

The present study aimed to compare the competitive advantage of two chickpea nodulating rhizobia strains (an indigenous strain Mesorhizobium muleiense CCBAU 83963T and an introduced strain Mesorhizobium ciceri USDA 3378) in different soils originated from new chickpea cultivation areas of China. The results showed that USDA 3378 had a significant competitive advantage in nodulation, with nodulation occupation rates ranging from 84·6% to 100% in all the sampled soils. According to the efficiency of symbiosis under single inoculation, chickpea plants inoculated with USDA 3378 showed better symbiotic performance based on the plant dry weight, leaf chlorophyll content and nodule numbers. The chickpea plants inoculated with USDA 3378 formed nodules about 2 days earlier than those inoculated with CCBAU 83963T. The higher growth in media and the stronger adsorption on chickpea roots of USDA 3378 when mixed with CCBAU 83963T may explain why USDA 3378 shows a competitive advantage. The results from this study will contribute towards the development of effective chickpea rhizobial inoculants for soil conditioning and more environmentally friendly production of chickpeas in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To characterize the fermentation process and bacterial diversity of sorghum silage inoculated with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LpAv, Pediococcus pentosaceus PpM and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei LcAv. Methods and Results: Chopped sorghum was ensiled using the selected strains. Physicochemical parameters (Ammonia Nitrogen/Total Nitrogen, Dry Matter, Crude Protein, Acid Detergent Fibre, Neutral Detergent Fibre, Acid Detergent Lignin, Ether Extract and Ashes), bacterial counts, cell cytometry and 16sRNA sequencing were performed to characterize the ensiling process and an animal trial (BALB/c mice) was conducted in order to preliminary explore the potential of sorghum silage to promote animal gut health. After 30 days of ensiling, the genus Lactobacillus comprised 68.4 ± 2.3% and 73.5 ± 1.8% of relative abundance, in control and inoculated silages respectively. Richness (Chao1 index) in inoculated samples, but not in control silages, diminished along ensiling, suggesting the domination of fermentation by the inoculated LAB. A trend in conferring enhanced protection against Salmonella infection was observed in the mouse model used to explore the potential to promote gut health of sorghum silage. Conclusions: The LAB strains used in this study were able to dominate sorghum fermentation. Significance and Impact of the Study: This is the first report using metaprofiling of 16sRNA to characterize sorghum silage, showing a microbiological insight where resident and inoculated LAB strains overwhelmed the epiphytic microbiota, inhibiting potential pathogens of the genus Klebsiella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, the production of biofuels as an alternative energy source from renewable raw materials to complement energy needs has become of utmost importance. The goal of this study was to compare bioethanol production from pineapple and white cassava peels utilizing inoculants such as Neurospora crassa, Aspergillus oryzae and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The cassava and pineapple peels were obtained from the white cassava and abacaxi pineapple, respectively. The fungal isolates: Neurospora crassa, Aspergillus oryzae, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were isolated from burnt wood, steamed rice, and fresh palm wine (from oil palm) at 37°C. Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) at pH 5.6 was used to grow the fungal isolates, and morphological observations were used to confirm the isolates. The substrates were fermented with different inoculant combinations, distilled on days 4 and 8, and the physicochemical parameters were determined. The results showed that Aspergillus oryzae and Saccharomyces cerevisiae in combination gave the highest bioethanol yield of 48.67±5.7 ml with the pineapple peels at day 8; whereas Aspergillus oryzae and Neurospora crassa in combination gave the highest bioethanol yield of 38.33±2.03 ml with the cassava peels at day 4. This observation was statistically significant (p<0.05). The findings led to the conclusion that pineapple peels have a higher bioethanol yield than cassava peels. The inoculants utilized in this research work indicate the best prospects for bioethanol production from abacaxi pineapple and white cassava. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a comprehensive approach to optimising the structure and properties of chromium cast iron that is intended for use in the production of castings that operate under abrasive-wear conditions. In the study, chromium cast iron was inoculated to reduce the grain size in the solidification structure. The finer-grained structure of the casting has a positive effect on its mechanical properties. A number of inoculants have been used that allow the elimination of many types of casting defects: hot cracks and porosities that often occur during the production of chromium cast iron castings. Another advantage of the developed inoculation procedure is the resulting increase in the toughness of chromium cast iron. It should be emphasised that this cast iron does not have a high impact strength in its as-cast condition due to the formation of chromium carbides in the structure. This work also proposes a specially designed heat treatment for inoculated cast iron. The parameters of the applied heat treatment were determined on the basis of dilatometric tests. The visible deviation on a dilatogram at a temperature of about 600 °C is the result of a partial martensitic transformation in the area of grain boundaries. Therefore, the increase in abrasion resistance chromium cast iron is mainly due to the appearance of martensite. The microstructure of the investigated cast iron is particularly desirable in the case of alloys that work with lubrication. The microcavities that are formed by the abrasion of the softer phase constitute natural grease, which reduces abrasive wear. Under the influence of heat treatment, only a part of austenite located near the carbides is destabilized and transformed into martensite. Therefore, this phase of composition formation provided much greater resistance to abrasive wear and hardness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a review of studies on the influence of inoculation of dispersed refractory compounds into the weld pool on formation of weld metal microstructure in low-alloyed high-strength steels. Features of the process of primary structure formation are considered in the presence of refractory nonmetallic inclusions in the liquid metal, as well as on the interface of δ-dendrites and γ-phase. Possibilities of inoculant influence on the temperature range of bainite transformations, possibilities of formation of microstructural components with higher brittle fracture resistance, and improvement of weld metal toughness values are shown. 18 Ref., 5 Fig. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a review of studies on the influence of inoculation of dispersed refractory compounds into the weld pool on formation of weld metal microstructure in low-alloyed high-strength steels. features of the process of primary structure formation are considered in the presence of refractory nonmetallic inclusions in the liquid metal, as well as on the interface of d-dendrites and γ-phase. Possibilities of inoculant influence on the temperature range of bainite transformations, formation of microstructural components with higher brittle fracture resistance, and improvement of weld metal toughness values are shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composting is considered to be one of the best methods for handling organic waste. It is a natural process and takes months to give quality mature compost. Characteristics of initial wastes and process conditions are the compost maturity deciding factors. Some biological inoculants, e.g., bacteria and fungi, can reduce the compost time and improve its quality. This research is based on the hypothesis that using fungus consortia on rice straw will boost the activities of microbes and, as a result, the rate of composting. The hypothesis was tested by preparing compost using rice straw residue with and without the applications of fungal consortia. Fungal consortia of Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Aspergillus terreus cellulose-degrading strains along with Pusa-1121 rice variety were used for the study. Different C/N ratios were achieved by varying rice straw, green leaves, poultry droppings, and fungal inoculant proportions. During various stages of composting, changes in total nitrogen, organic carbon, C/N ratios, and other parameters were calculated. The germination index of Mung beans (Vigna radiata) was used to measure the quality of the completed compost extract. Statistical analysis with the help of a two-tailed independent t-test at the confidence level of 95% was applied to determine the statistical difference between the treatments and control. It has been found that the Seed Germination index of treatment C/N 30 was 91.5% and that of C/N 26 was 79.1% which were significantly (p<0.01) different from the 54% GI of control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Organic wastes are considered the most significant components of urban solid waste, negatively affecting the environment. It is essential to use renewable resources to minimize environmental risks. Composting is one of the most sustainable methods for managing organic waste and involves transforming organic matter into a stable and nutrient-enriched biofertilizer, through the succession of microbial populations into a stabilized product. This work aimed to evaluate the efficiency of the new type of composter and the microbial and physiochemical dynamics during composting aiming to accelerate the degradation of organic waste and produce high-quality compost. Two inoculants were evaluated: (1) efficient microorganisms (EM); (2) commercial inoculum (CI), which were compared to a control treatment, without inoculation. Composting was performed by mixing organic waste from gardening with residues from the University's Restaurant (C/N ratio 30:1). The composting process was carried out in a 1 m3 composter with controlled temperature and aeration. The thermophilic phase for all treatments was reached on the second day. Mature compost was obtained after an average of 120 days, and composting in all treatments showed an increase in the availability of P and micronutrients. The new composter helped to accelerate the decomposition of residues, through the maintenance of adequate oxygen content and temperature control inside the cells, providing high metabolic activity of microorganisms, contributing to an increase in physicochemical characteristics, also reducing the composting time in both treatments. During composting, the bacteria and actinobacteria populations were higher than yeasts and filamentous fungi. The inoculated treatments presented advantages showing more significant mineralization of P-available and micronutrients such as Mn and Zn in terms of the quality of the final product in comparison to the control treatment. Finally, the new composter and the addition of inoculants contributed significantly to the efficiency of the process of composting organic waste.

Soil bacterial and fungal communities are suitable soil ecosystem health indicators due to their sensitivity to management practices and their role in soil ecosystem processes. Here, information on composition and functions of bacterial and fungal communities were evaluated at two phenological stages of sugarcane (six and twelve months, equivalent to the most intensive vegetative stage and to final maturation, respectively) when organomineral fertilizer, combined with phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB), was added into the soil. Organic compost enriched with apatite (C + A) or phosphorite (C + P) and compost without phosphate enrichment (C) were used in the presence or absence of PSB. In addition, we used a control fertilized with soluble triple superphosphate. The differences were more related to the sampling period than to the type of organomineral fertilizer, being observed higher available phosphorus at six months than at twelve months. Only in the C treatment we observed the presence of Bacillaceae and Planococcaceae, while Pseudomonadaceae were only prevalent in inoculated C + A. As for fungi, the genera Chaetomium and Achroiostachys were only present in inoculated C + P, while the genus Naganishia was most evident in inoculated C + A and in uninoculated C + P. Soliccocozyma represented 75% of the total fungal abundance in uninoculated C while in inoculated C, it represented 45%. The bacterial community was more related to the degradation of easily decomposable organic compounds, while the fungal community was more related to degradation of complex organic compounds. Although the microbial community showed a resilient trait, subtle changes were detected in microbial community composition and function, and this may be related to the increase in yield observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estimates are that land area occupied by grass pasture far exceeds that of other crops; at least half are at some stage of degradation. The use of elite plant-growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPM) as inoculants represents an important strategy to achieve qualitative and quantitative improvements in forage biomass, increasing the productivity and sustainability of livestock production. Several studies have reported the benefits of PGPM in grass pastures, with an emphasis on bacteria of the genera Azospirillum, Pseudomonas, Bacillus, rhizobia, and on arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF). The main grasses studied are Urocholoa (syn. Brachiaria), Megathyrsus (syn. Panicum), Paspalum, Cynodon, and Agropyron. Several microbial processes associated with improvements in root and shoot growth, nutrient content in biomass, and other benefits have been described. Promotion of plant growth has been associated with the synthesis of phytohormones and enzymes regulating several steps of plant development, nutrient mineralization by release of microbial molecules, biological nitrogen fixation, nutrient uptake facilitation by means of molecules such as exopolysaccharides, amongst others. Outstanding benefits of increased root growth, resulting in higher uptake of water and nutrients, either by phytohormones released by bacteria or by expanding root surface by AMF, have been reported. Biocontrol is another important property of PGPM, by a variety of mechanisms, including the synthesis of antimicrobial molecules, lytic enzymes, siderophores, and the release of specific inhibitory compounds such as hydrogen cyanide. Although improvements in forage management can enhance microbial performance, as shown for AMF, in general, inoculation with elite strains positively impacts growth parameters. Globally, the use of microbial inoculants has significantly increased in the past few years, but their application is still modest on grass pastures, which are generally degraded and would need special use of microbial inoculants for reclamation. Efforts towards increasing the use of PGPM in pastures can have deep positive environmental, economic, and social impacts worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silage inoculants are commonly used as a tool to improve the fermentation and aerobic stability of corn silage fed to dairy cows. However, their effectiveness can be inconsistent. Our objective was to determine the effect of the dry matter (DM) content of freshly chopped whole-plant corn on its microbial community as affected by an inoculant containing Lentilactobacillus hilgardii , Lentilactobacillus buchneri , and Pediococcus pentosaceus on improving the aerobic stability of silage. Whole-plant corn was harvested at low (31.80%, LDM), medium (33.32%, MDM), or high (39.44%, HDM) DM content and treated with nothing (CTR) or an inoculant (INO) containing L. hilgardii CNCM I-4785 at 150,000 cfu/g fresh forage, L. buchneri NCIMB 40788 at 150,000 cfu/g fresh forage, P. pentosaceus NCIMB12455 at 100,000 cfu/g of fresh forage, β-glucanase (5,750 IU/g), and xylanase (30,000 IU/g) and ensiled for 20 and 60 d. Data were analyzed as a completely randomized design in a 3-by-2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Fresh LDM forage had a higher concentration of reducing sugars, a less rich, diverse, and even bacterial community, and greater relative abundance of Saccharomycetales than MDM and HDM forages. Silages at 20 and 60 d, inoculated LDM had a more modest proliferation of culturable lactic acid bacteria than inoculated MDM. At 20 d, regardless of treatment, LDM had greater concentrations of lactic and acetic acids. Also at 20 d, LDM had lower numbers of culturable yeasts but greater relative abundance of Enterobacteriaceae than MDM and HDM. For silage at 20 d, HDM silage was more aerobically stable than LDM and MDM and inoculation improved aerobic stability 1.8-fold compared with CTR. For silage at 60 d, there was an interaction between DM content and inoculation. The improvements in stability by inoculation, compared with CTR, were greater in MDM (261 vs. 41 h) and HDM (320 vs. 66 h) silages than in LDM (85 vs. 46 h). The lower DM content and possible slower pH decline in LDM might have facilitated the development of undesirable bacteria and coupled with its greater concentration of reducing sugars and lactic and acetic acids, which are substrates for aerobic microorganisms, might explain the more modest improvements in aerobic stability from inoculation in LDM compared with MDM and HDM. Our findings suggest that the DM content of whole-plant corn affected its epiphytic microbial community and the effectiveness of the inoculant, which improved aerobic stability at all DM but to a greater extent in HDM and MDM than in LDM, especially after 60 d of ensiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]