THE INFLUENCE OF LOW INTENSITY MILLIMETER WAVES ON THE MULTIPLICATION
AND BIOSYNTHETIC ACTIVITY OF Saccharomyces carlsbergensis CNMN-Y-15 YEAST

Agafia USATÎI, Elena MOLODOI, Anatol ROTARU, Taisia MOLDOVEANU

Abstract: The study of the influence of low intensity millimeter waves effects on the multiplication and biosynthetic activity of oleogene components of yeast strain Saccharomyces carlsbergensis CNMN-Y-15 has been effectuated. It was established that the biological effect of millimeter wave regime depends on the mode, duration of treatment, phase of formation of population, which can serve as one of the factor regulating the multiplication and the biosynthesis of bioactive principles of yeasts.

Keywords: Saccharomyces carlsbergensis, millimeter waves, biological effect, multiplication, lipids, sterols

CHLOROPHYLL AND CAROTENOIDS PIGMENTS FROM
MISTLETOE (Viscum album) LEAVES USING DIFFERENT SOLVENTS

Simona Ioana VICAŞ, Vasile LASLO, Stelian PANTEA, Gheorghe Emil BANDICI

Abstract: European mistletoe (Viscum album L., family Santalaceae) is native from Europe and is an evergreen, perennial, hemiparasitic shrub that lives on a wide range of woody plants species. In the first part of this study we present the area, length and width of the leaves of five varieties of Viscum album subsp. album that are growing on five different host trees (Acer campestre, Mallus domestica, Fraxinus excelsior, Populus nigra and Robinia pseudoacacia), in order to observe if there are vegetative morphology changes within the same specie (V. album) due to host plant. In the second part, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and the total amounts of carotenoids in mistletoe extracts, that was harvesting on February were determined. The buffered aqueous 80% acetone, DMF and methanol were used as solvents. The contribution of these solvents to the extraction of assimilatory pigments and the time of extraction (24, 48 and 72 hours) was examined comparatively. We find, also, the difference between the mistletoe that are growing on different host trees. The highest level of total chlorophyll (a + b), after 48 hours of extraction, were observed in the case of VaM extract, in all the solvents used (21.92 mg/g fresh leaves, in the case of methanol; 20.45 mg/g fresh leaves, in the case of acetone and 16.00 mg/g fresh leaves in the case of DMF). The low concentration of pigments were recorded in the case of VaP extract (15.23 mg/g fresh leaves in methanol extract). It was observed that methanol is the best solvent for chlorophyll, while acetone is a better solvent for the carotenoids.

Keywords: chlorophyll a and b, carotene, spectrophotometric method, solvents, Viscum album

ANATOMICAL STRUCTURE OF AFRICAN VIOLET (Saintpaulia ionantha L.)
VITRO- AND EXVITROPLANTLETS

Adriana PETRUŞ-VANCEA, Angela Monica ŞIPOŞ

Abstract. In this article we study the histo-anatomical structure of vegetative organs of African violet (Saintpaulia ionantha L.) vitro- and exvitroplantlets in comparison with similar aspects at the same organs of the greenhouse plants (control lot). The phytoinoculs vitroculture period was 120 days, the ex vitro acclimatization for the exvitroplantlets needed 30 days, and the greenhouse cultivar was 2 years old. Finally, we found that only rootlets of the vitroplantlets had a primary structure because at stemlets level has been identified the cambium presence still the vitroculture period. The cortical parenchyma cells at vitro- and exvitroplantlets was larger and less compact in comparison with those of control lot. Also, in the vitroplantlet rootles and stemlets the report cortex:central cylinder was much higher and vascular bundle was very poorly represented that at exvitroplantlets, but especially in comparison with these aspects in the plants grown in natural conditions. The spongy parenchyma at leaflets from in vitro culture was composed of fewer cell layers which was larger and less compact in comparison with those of exvitroplantlet leaf homologous layers and with the same layers from the leaf of greenhouse plants. At in vitro leaflets the peryphloemic protective mechanical tissue was at an early forming stage. However, we consider these differences as being due to the plants normal ontogenetic development.

Keywords: vitroculture, acclimatization, Saintpaulia, anatomical structure

THE SIZE AND GERMINATION OF EGGPLANT SEED IN RELATION TO FRUIT
MATURITY AT HARVEST, AFTER-RIPENING AND ETHYLENE APPLICATION

Harold Christopher PASSAM, Despoina MAKROGIANNI, Foteini GREGORIOU, Ioannis Christou KARAPANOS

Abstract. In eggplant cultivars Black Beauty, Emi, Long Negro and Tsakoniki cultivated for seed, flower induction and flower weight decreased in the presence of developing fruit on the plant. Harvesting prior to maturity (25-35 days after anthesis), aimed at increasing flower induction and fruit set, resulted in small seeds that failed to germinate or germinated poorly. When these fruit were stored for 20 days at 25±30C before seed extraction, seed size and germination increased indicating seed filling and maturation (‘after-ripening’) within the harvested fruit. In year 1, a single application of ethylene before storage increased the germination of Black Beauty and Long Negro harvested 25-35 days after anthesis, but reduced that of Emi and Tsakoniki. In year 2, ethylene application once before the storage of fruits harvested 35 days after anthesis promoted the germination of Tsakoniki and Emi, and when ethylene was applied three times germination was increased further. The possible applications of early harvest, fruit storage prior to seed extraction and ethylene treatment to eggplant seed production are discussed.

Keywords: aubergine, Solanum melongena L., non-climacteric fruit

USING RAPD TECHNIQUES TO CHECK THE GENETIC STABILITY OF
Erigeron nanus SCHUR REGENERANTS IN THE EX SITU CONSERVATION CONTEXT

Rodica CATANĂ, Matilda CIUCĂ, Irina HOLOBIUC

Abstract. In this study we intended to check the genetic stability of micropropagated shoots obtained through indirect organogenesis of a rare, Carpathian endemic Erigeron nanus Schur plant species using the RAPD techniques.
Our study is joining to the Convention on Biological Diversity’s 2010 target, which consists in the reduction of the current rate of biodiversity loss, trying to check the genetic stability of micropropagated plants at Erigeron nanus Schur for the conservative purpose.
An in vitro propagation protocol through indirect organogenesis has been developed for multiplication of Erigeron nanus Schur and has been used continuously as an initial step for the production and maintenance of shoot cultures.
Reproducible RAPD patterns were obtained using 4 primers which showed monomorphic bands in the all samples tested.
Despite of the pre-request conditions for somaclonal variation (indirect micropropagation pathway - via calli), duration of in vitro culture (more than 12 months), in vitro stress due to unnatural conditions, the tested primers showed any differences in the RAPD pattern of the regenerants.

Keywords: Erigeron nanus Schur, RAPD pattern, in vitro culture, indirect organogenesis

IN VITRO PROPAGATION OF Campanula polymorpha Witas. – AN ENDEMIC
PLANT OF CARPATHIAN MOUNTAINS

Anca PAUNESCU

Abstract. Campanula polymorpha is an endemic plant of Carpathian Mountains, included in the Carpathian List of Endangered Species.
An efficient micropropagation system was developed for regeneration and in vitro conservation of C. polymorpha. Single-node aerial stem segments from mature flowering plants collected from natural growing populations was sterile inoculated on regeneration media. For an efficient regeneration a range of 12 variant of basal MS (Murashige - Skoog) media formulation was tested, with different growth regulators combinations. Histological investigation shows that axillary bud dormancy was broken after 5 days of culture. The best rate of shoot production (average 14.8 shoot/explant) was achieved after 5 weeks of culture on media supplemented with 0.1 mg/l NAA (1-naphthylacetic acid) and 1 mg/l BAP (6-benzylaminopurine). Shoots of about 4-5 cm high, developed roots after 3-4 weeks on media without growth regulators. The
established protocols offer a valuable micropropagation method that could be useful as a starting point for in vitro conservation of this endemic plant, or for mass propagation of other Campanula species of horticultural importance.

Keywords: Campanula polymorpha Witas., in vitro conservation

RESEARCHES REGARDING GLYPHOSATE EFFECTIVENESS ON THE DEGREE OF
WEED CONTROL IN GRAPE PLANTATION

Monica NEGREA, Gheorghe CARCIU, Ersilia ALEXA, Aurel LAZUREANU, Andreea SFETCU

Abstract. In this paper was determined the control degree of weeds in grape plantation, Burgund variety, when is using chemical treatments with herbicides and agro-technique measures. Herbicide used was Roundup 3 l/ha and 4l/ha (glyphosate isopropyl amine salt 360 g/l) applied in 4 experimental variants. It was determined the weed presence degree, the type of weeds destroyed and the degree of their participation. Predominant weed species in studied grape plantation, were: Agropyron repens (20.15%), Geranium dissectum (17.91%), Capsella bursa pastoris (15.67%) and Avena fatua (13.43%). Ephemeral weeds Veronica hederifolia and Stellaria media had a participation rate of 8.96%. Perennial weeds represented 40.30% while annual weeds are 59.70% . The herbicide Roundup provides most effective control in a dose of 3 or 4 l/ha, combined with mechanical weeding + 1 manual weeding, control rates being over 90%.

Keywords: glyphosate, grape plantation, weed control degree

APPLICATION OF MOLECULAR TECHNIQUES TO THE STUDY OF
Pseudomonas aeruginosa CLINICAL ISOLATE IN CLUJ-NAPOCA, ROMANIA

Cornelia CRĂCIUNAŞ, Anca BUTIUC-KEUL, Mirela FLONTA, Andreea BRAD, Marta SIGARTEU

Abstract. The goal of this study was to determine the presence of the genes implicated in resistance to agents used for chemotherapy of infectious diseases caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Twenty seven P. aeruginosa isolates from the Clinical Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, were analyzed. The bacteria were isolated over two years period, in 2008 and 2009 and serotyped at the Clinical Hospital of Infectious Disease, Cluj-Napoca. The isolates were recovered from patients with multiple types of infections, mostly respiratory tract, urinary tract and postoperative wound infections. In order to identify the genes implicated in antimicrobial resistance mechanisms, we used a direct PCR technique. DNA extraction was skipped and the bacterial cell wall denaturated in the first step of the reaction. We did not identify the presence of blaVIM or blaIMP family genes at any of the tested isolates of P. aeruginosa. We determined instead the PstS gene and from the ESBL group, we detected the presence of OXA type genes, namely OXA-50 and OXA-2. The presence of blaOXA-50 is important in order to identify and track the spread of multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa clones since that blaOXA-50may be another potential clonality marker. This study is the first report of presence of PstS and blaOXA type genes in P. aeruginosa isolates, in Romania.

Keywords: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, molecular techniques, PCR

DEVELOPMENT OF A PCR ASSAY FOR IDENTIFICATION OF ANTIBIOTIC
RESISTANCE DETERMINANTS AT Staphylococcus aureus

Cornelia CRĂCIUNAŞ, Anca BUTIUC-KEUL, Mirela FLONTA, Ariana ALMAŞ, Andreea BRAD, Marta SIGARTEU

Abstract. The aim of the present study was to develop a PCR assay for identification of antibiotic resistance genes at Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates. Thirty five isolates from the Emergency County Hospital and Clinical Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, were analyzed. The bacteria were isolated over two years period, in 2007 and 2009 and serotyped at the Clinical Hospital of Infectious Disease, Cluj-Napoca. In order to develop a PCR assay for identification of antibiotic resistance genes at S. aureus clinical isolates, the bacterial strains were tested for the presence of the tst, sea, mecA, femA, ermC and ermA genes using the polymerase chain reaction and gene-specific primers. We succeeded in amplifying mecA gene to all isolates that exhibit methicillin resistance. Our result concord 100% with standard culture method but they were obtained in 5 hours instead of four days. In order to increase the efficiency of PCR typing and reduce reagent costs, multiple sets of primers were included in a single reaction tube in a multiplex PCR. We succeeded in elaborating a multiplex PCR for mecA and femA genes.

Keywords: Staphylococcus aureus, antibiotic resistance, PCR

STUDIES REGARDING THE EFFECTS OF Rosmarinus officinalis OIL TREATMENTS IN
HEALTHY AND POTATO VIRUS Y (PVY) INFECTED PLANTS Solanum tuberosum L.

Carmen Liliana BĂDĂRĂU, Angela MĂRCULESCU, Nicoleta CHIRU, Florentina DAMŞA, Andreea NISTOR

Abstract. The potato virus Y cause loss in yield and quality of tubers. Hydrogen peroxide, ascorbic acid and antioxidants such as rosmarinic acid present in oils extracted from Rosmarinus officinalis plants are implicated in signaling against stress. The effects of these chemicals on tuber yield and pigments content were evaluated in plants testing positive after virus mechanical infection. Without chemical treatment, positive plants showed significant reductions in leaf pigments content and tuber weights compared to uninfected controls. Hydrogen peroxide, ascorbic acid and oil treatments of PVY infected plants significantly reduced the number of minitubers, enhancing their weights, while leaf pigment content also increased. This research demonstrates potential benefits of treatments with oils extracted from Rosmarinus officinalis plants and hydrogen peroxide or ascorbic acid in enhancing the yield and quality of tubers.

Keywords: Rosmarinus officinalis oil, potato virus Y, carotenoides, chlorophyll
Abbreviations. AA ascorbic acid, DHA dehydroascorbate, ROS reactive oxygen species, RA rosmarinic acid, RO Rosmarinus officinalis, PVY potato virus Y, SD standard deviation

CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE KNOWLEDGE OF FLORA AND VEGETATION OF PEAT
BOG FROM BIHORULUI MOUNTAINS (NW ROMANIA)

Petru BURESCU, George TOGOR

Abstract. The oligotrophic peat bog of Bihorului Mountains are quartered in the valleys with northern exposure, of siliceous substrate, forming habitats with high conservation value, which are home to over 10 rare relict species. The phytocoenoses of the associations Sphagnetum magellanici, Sphagno cuspidati – Rhynchosporetum albae, Caricetum limosae were analyzed by us in terms of floristic composition, ecological spectra of the type of life forms and floristic elements, in terms of chart ecological factors: moisture, soil temperature and chemical reaction.

Keywords: phytocoenoses, association, peat bog, life forms, floristic elements, glacial relicts, Bihorului Mountains

SOME ASPECTS REGARDING THE MIGRATORY DYNAMICS OF THE WHITE
STORK (Ciconia ciconia) IN THE DOAMNEI RIVER HYDROGRAPHICAL BASIN
(ARGEŞ COUNTY, ROMANIA)

Adrian MESTECĂNEANU, Florin MESTECĂNEANU

Abstract. The authors show a part of their researches regarding the presence and the behaviour in passage of the white stork (Ciconia ciconia) in the Doamnei River hydrographical basin, which covers some aspects concerning the migratory dynamics. The maximum of the passage was in April (in spring) and in August (in autumn). In some years, the spring passage was belated until in July. The spring migration was more intense than the autumn migration. Other considerations about the number of individuals of the flocks, direction of the displacement, and the daily dynamics according to the lapse of time were done.

Keywords: white stork (Ciconia ciconia), migration, Doamnei River hydrographical basin, Romania.

EFFECT OF HEAVY METAL TREATMENTS ON METALLOTHIONEIN EXPRESSION
PROFILES IN WHITE POPLAR (Populus alba L.) CELL SUSPENSION CULTURES

Anca MACOVEI, Lorenzo VENTURA, Mattia DONÀ, Matteo FAÈ, Alma BALESTRAZZI, Daniela CARBONERA

Abstract. Populus species and hybrids are intensively cultivated as sources of woody biomass and are good candidates for phytoremediation because of their rapid growth rate, extensive root system and ease of propagation and transformation. To date, the molecular mechanisms that regulate heavy metal tolerance have not been fully investigated. In the present work, white poplar (Populus alba L.) cell suspension cultures were used as model system to investigate the response to heavy metal treatments. The VFMT2 cDNA, encoding a type 2 metallothionein from P. alba, was isolated by RT-PCR approach. The expression profiles of the VFMT2 gene were then investigated by Quantitative Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (QRT-PCR) under oxidative stress conditions. The latter were induced by exposing the cell suspension cultures to different doses of cadmium (75 and 150 μM CdSO4), copper (50 and 100 μM CuCl2) and zinc (1 and 2 mM ZnSO4). Cell death was evidenced by Evans blue staining. The VFMT2 gene was up-regulated in response to heavy metal treatments and the highest mRNA level (up to 5-fold) was observed 4 h following exposure to100 μM CuCl2.

Keywords: Populus alba L., cell suspension cultures, metallothionein, heavy metal stress, QRT-PCR

STUDIES ON GENETIC DIVERSITY IN Amaranthus SPECIES USING THE RAPD MARKERS

Gabriela POPA, Calina Petruţa CORNEA, Matilda CIUCA, Narcisa BABEANU, Ovidiu POPA, Doru MARIN

Abstract. Here in this work we studied the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships among six popular species of Amaranthus: A.cruentus (Alegria) V1-R1, A.cruentus (Amont) V3-R1, A.hypocondriacus V2-R1, Amaranthus sp. 13, A.cruentus (MT3) V11-R1 and A.chlorostachys (powellii) from different geographic regions using the RAPD markers. Molecular methods used to characterize the amaranths plants showed that among the studied species there is a slightly intra- and inter-species polymorphism.
Using ITS primers type that amplified characteristic fragments from rDNA region (relevant area for 5.8 S rRNA gene) after amplification a single product was obtained for all Amaranthus samples. Introns of tubulin genes are also useful tools for genotyping plant species and varieties, for parental assessment and for assisting breeding programs. Introns of plant tubulin genes are important regulatory elements for supporting gene expression. In our experiments applying the TBP (tubulin-based polymorphism) method revealed an intraspecific polymorphism in A. cruentus (Alegria) V1-R1, while no polymorphism was detected among the other studied species. From the RAPD data, an UPGMA dendrogram illustrating a difference between wild species of Amaranthus (A. chlorostacys powellii) and the other two species examined. In addition, between A. hyponchondriacus and A. cruentus there is a relationship, the genetic distance between them being ~18-20%.

Keywords: A. cruentus, A. hypocondriacus, A. chlorostachys (powellii), genetic diversity, RAPD analysis, plant β-tubulin
genes.

THE BREEDING BIRD SPECIES FROM THE MIDDLE HYDROGRAPHICAL BASIN OF
THE ARGEŞ RIVER (ROMANIA) AND THEIR PROTECTION STATUS

Denisa CONETE

Abstract. The author made ornithological observations during 2003 - 2010 in the middle basin of the river Argeş, and observed 122 breeding species that are included in 13 orders, 38 families and 83 genera. 96 of them are certainly breeding species and 26 are probably breeding species. The results of the researches were cumulated with the data from the Atlas of the Romanian breeding species. By reference to the Atlas data, it is noticeable that 95 of the 106 breeding species cited in the Atlas were again recorded. 27 new breeding species were identified. Regarding the occupied habitat, most of the breeding species (72%) live in the terrestrial habitat. The summer visitor species and the sedentary species are preponderant; they are followed by the partially migrant species. 22 breeding species are listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive.

Keywords: bird species, breeding, Argeş River, Romania.

RESISTANCE OF ALLOPLASMIC WHEATS TO BROWN LEAF RUST

Alexander Lvovivh SECHNYAK, Alexei Anatolievich VASILIEV, Tatiana Andreevna MANDRYCHENKO, Julia Victorovna GOLUB

Abstract. The reaction of alloplasmic and euplasmic lines of wheat on brown leaf rust was studied in the condition of field infectious nursery in 2002, 2004, 2006 and 2007. The influence of cytoplasmic genome on resistance of the investigated lines varied for years and probably was mainly specific to race. However the positive effect of alloplasm from Aegilops squarrosa var. typica on resistance to pathogene was stable and universal.

Keywords: brown leaf rust, resistance, alloplasmic wheat, euplasmic wheat, Aegilops sp., Triticum sp.

Sisymbrium volgense (BRASSICACEAE) IN THE FLORA OF ROMANIA

Adrian OPREA, Culiţă SÎRBU

Abstract. Sisymbrium volgense M. Bieb. ex E. Fourn., native from South-Western Russia, is reported in the flora of Romania. This species was found in the area of the Socola railway station, in the East of Iasi city (North-Western Romania). The description and general distribution of the species, as well as some data relating to its biology, ecology and phytosociology are given in the paper. An identification key for this species and other related taxa from the flora of Romania is provided.

Keywords: alien plant species, Sisymbrium, flora of Romania, identification key

STRUCTURAL CHANGES IN SILVER FIR NEEDLES IN RESPONSE TO AIR POLLUTION

Irina GOSTIN

Abstract. In this paper the structure of the two years old silver fir leaves from polluted and clean sites was comparatively investigated. Under the action of heavy metals (especially Pb, Cu and Zn), important accumulations of tannin and polyphenolic compounds were noticed in epidermis and hypodermis cells and in assimilatory tissues. The transfusion parenchyma was severely affected in some needles of plants growing in polluted areas. With some exceptions, the epidermis preserves its integrity. The conductive tissues, especially the phloem, are affected by the pollutants. These features suggest a massive translocation of heavy metals through the vascular bundles. The micromorphological investigations show different degrees of degradation of wax tubules from the epistomatal ring. The amorphous wax could be observed on the needles from polluted sites.

Keywords: anatomy, heavy metals, leaf, pollution, Abies alba Mill.

THE EFFECTS OF SOME COMPOUNDS OF Mn(II) AND Zn(II) ON THE MULTIPLICATION
OF WINE YEAST AND BIOSYNTHESIS OF CARBOHYDRATES IN THE BIOMASS

Agafia USATÎI, Oleg CHISELITA, Valeriu RUDIC, Natalia CHISELITA, Elena MOLODOI,
Nadejda EFREMOVA, Aurelian GULEA, Constantin TURTA, Vasile LOZAN

Abstract. The aim of investigation was to establish the influence of sulphates, acetates and coordination compounds of Mn(II) and Zn(II) as stimulators of the multiplication and growth of wine yeasts strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae CNMN-Y-20 and inducers of carbohydrate biosynthesis in biomass with the following elaboration of new procedures for directed carbohydrate biosynthesis. The study has been revealed that compounds MnSO₄•4H₂O, [Mn₂Ac(2PyTCH)-1,5-Bis(piridin)tiocarbohidraziddimanganese-acetate] and ZnLP-2 in optimal concentrations can be recommended as effective regulators of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae CNMN-Y-20 multiplications, as well as compounds [Mn(Gly)₂]Cl₂, (CH₃COO)₂Zn and ZnLP-2 in established concentrations - of the carbohydrates biosynthesis in the biomass of studied wine yeast strain. Stimulatory properties of studied compounds of Mn²⁺ and Zn²⁺ on carbohydrate biosynthesis in biomass of Saccharomyces cerevisiae CNMN-Y-20 can be explained both by the action of metal and by the nature of the ligand. The obtained biomass of wine yeast strain with high content of carbohydrates can be utilized for the obtaining of new bioproducts with the following application in the field of medicine and cosmetology.

Keywords: Saccharomyces cerevisiae, multiplication, carbohydrates, compounds of Mn (II) and Zn (II).

THEORETICAL METHODOLOGY FOR ASSESSING THE STATUS OF
CONSERVATION OF CROP LANDRACES IN ROMANIA

Maria-Mihaela ANTOFIE, Dana CONSTANTINOVICI, Mihai Radu POP,
Pompilica IAGARU, Camelia SAND, Gligor CIROTEA

Abstract: On farm conservation of crop landraces or old traditional crops is essential for further supporting food security and new policies in relation with biodiversity conservation and climate change responses such as adaptation and mitigation. In order to improve the genetic resources knowledge regarding crop landraces’ germplasm diversity a new methodology for assessing their
status of conservation thorough a landscape approach by also taking into account the climate change vulnerability of certain ecosystems compared to others and specific environment requirements is proposed. Developing new policies in applying dynamic action plans in agriculture, according to environmental factors, climate change impact and tolerance degree of crop landraces, may originate from these types of integrated studies. Based on the above mentioned rationale this proposed methodology will be further used for developing a Red List for crops in Romania.

Keywords: crop landraces, red list, on farm conservation

IN VITRO PROPAGATION OF CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES
Scilla autumnalis L. – BIOCHEMICAL ANALYSES OF THE REGENERANTS

Cristian BANCIU, Monica MITOI, Florenta HELEPCIUC, Florentina ALDEA

Abstract. The present study belongs to the international efforts for plant conservation from the areas threatened by human activities. The saline soils areas are restricting for agriculture and in some cases for fishery facilities and the plant species are extinct from those areas. Scilla autumnalis L. is one of the threatened plants (rare on the national red list of vascular plants from Romania) that grows in the Natural Park Comana, Giurgiu County, South Romania.
Seeds from plants grown in the natural habitat have been used for in vitro plant regeneration and multiplication. After successfully rooting and acclimatization of the regenerated plantlets from germinated seeds, biochemical studies have been performed in order to compare the regenerants from in vitro cultures with native plants from genetically point of view. Peroxydase
and esterase’s spectra were the biochemical markers used.
The results indicated that this plant species can be multiplicated, rooted and acclimatized on synthetic medium (MS supplemented with NAA, IBA, IAA, kinetin and BAP) with a good efficiency and the regenerants had no genetic alterations determinated by culture conditions.

Keywords: Scilla autumnalis L., in vitro culture, biochemical markers

INITIATION OF Begonia erythrophylla L. VITROCULTURE FROM AXILLARY BUDS

Julieta - Emilia ROMOCEA, Liviu POP, István GERGELY

Abstract. In our aim was to establish a short-term in vitro culture of Begonia erythrophylla L., different culture media compositions were tested: complex variants added with growth regulators and simplified modified media with Heller microelements and MS macroelements. Adventitious shoots elongating over 13 mm in length were efficiently obtained from axillary bud segments of the strain of begonia Begonia erythrophylla L. on MS basic mineral medium culture containing different concentration of growth regulators, in order to identify optimal culture conditions, which would facilitate the achievement of a vitroculture, allowing the in vitro culture of this studied species. On complex regeneration variant V1 – mineral basic medium culture MB - MS supplemented with 1 mg/l BA, the rooting process was absent, but according to this carried out research, plantlets were obtained by rooting the elongated shoots on Murashige-Skoog (1962) basic mineral media containing 1 mg/l IBA, respectively a basic mineral medium culture without growth regulators, producing a much better organogenesis, where the phenomenon was greater in rooting process.

Keywords: Begonia erythrophylla L., cytokine, auxine, micropropagation.

CHARACTERS WITH MULTIPLE USAGES- PHENOTYPIC VARIABILITY ANALYSIS
AT Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench SPECIES

Mihai Radu POP

Abstract. Merging aesthetics with utility, some medicinal plants can benefit both of a high production and decoration potential.
This calls for diversification of improvement directions of the species. Through this article we suggest one of these species, Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench. This is considered to be important at this time, acquisition of new biological forms - varieties in this species, which show multiple attributes utility based on key biological characteristics, agronomic, physiological, biochemical and agrochemical (medicinal, decorative, culinary etc.). To achieve this goal, studies were undertaken, given in this article, which is the starting point for selecting characters representative for our targets.
The results presented in this study reveal a pronounced genetic polymorphism showing the selection operation can use the original material for a quantitative and qualitative differentiation of valuable genotypes that could be approved.

Keywords: Echinacea purpurea, variability coefficient, leaf, inflorescence, multiple usage

STUDIES CONCERNING THE PRODUCTION OF VOLATILE OIL, RHIZOMES AND
ROOTS, TO DIFFERENT GENOTYPES OF Valeriana officinalis L.

Mihai Radu POP, Camelia SAND, Dana BOBIŢ, Mihaela ANTOFIE, Horea BARBU,
Petronela Bianca PAVEL, Leon MUNTEAN, Mircea SAVATTI

Abstract. Valeriana officinalis L. is considered to pertain to European species, with great ecologic plasticity, which allows its adaptation to climate conditions characteristics to plain areas and also to mountain areas up to an altitude of 2400 meters. The species is a well-known curative plant, with a long history and multiple uses. Essential oils deriving from this species revealed the interest of researchers in food industry, cosmetics and officinal industry, furthermore being used as additives too.
The raw material from which essential oils are being extracted is represented mainly by rhizomes and roots. This study has the purpose to emphasize the differences of essential oils production registered based upon the genotypes diversity. Thus, 11 experimental variants have been used, with biologic material of different origin, from Romania, Poland, Germany and Russia; they have been measured in relation to their production of rhizomes, roots and volatile oil, in the ecological conditions of Brasov, Romania.
The results proved the superiority of the variants was used Romanian variety M-100, but have also revealed a negative correlation between capacity and essential oil biosynthesis.

Keywords: Valeriana officinalis L., genotypes, production of roots, analysis of variety.

STATE OF BREAM POPULATIONS IN RECONSTRUCTED WATER BODIES OF MOLDOVA

Adrian USATYI, Marin USATYI, Oleg CREPIS, Mihail SHATUNOVSKII, Alexandr BOBYREV, Aurel CEBANU

Abstract. Bream, Abramis brama L., is a key species in fish communities of Moldovian Rivers and a main component of bottom food chains of river and lake ecosystems. With the reconstruction of water bodies, mainly for hydroelectric power stations needs, the ecological conditions changed substantially, which results in modifications in population state of biota. The negative effects of water bodies’ reconstruction upon population status of bream in several Moldovian Rivers and reservoirs were studied.
These effects manifest in detrimental changes in bream growth, age composition and reproductive success. The conclusion is made that the economical gain after the regulation of large and middle-size rivers is opposed by the negative impact upon fish community as a whole, as well as upon the ecology of individual species as applied to the indicator species Abramis brama.

Keywords: bream, Abramis brama, population structure, growth rate, reproduction, reservoir forming, reconstructed water
bodies

THE STUDY OF ASSOCIATION PHYLLITIDI-FAGETUM IN CODRU-MOMA
MOUNTAINS (NORTH-WESTERN ROMANIA)

Călin-Gheorghe PĂŞCUŢ, Petru BURESCU

Abstract. In the present study we aimed to analyse the phytocoenoses that take part in the association Phyllitidi-Fagetum Vida (1959) 1963, in the area of the Codru-Moma Mountains.
The phytocoenoses of association Phyllitidi-Fagetum Vida (1959) 1963 were analyzed from the point of view of floristic diversity, of the life forms spectrum, of the floristic elements spectrum and the diagram of the ecological indices.
The presence of this association in Codru-Moma Mountains was signaled following 10 phytocoenological relevées done during the period 2008-2010.

Keywords: association, phytocoenoses, life forms, floristic elements, ecological indices, Codru-Moma Mountains.

USE OF CROP WATER STRESS INDEX FOR MONITORING WATER STRESS IN
SOME SINANTHROPIC PLANT SPECIES

Marinela Roxana ROŞESCU, Emil CHIŢU

Abstract. The water stress indicator (crop water stress index, CWSI) is a measure of the transpiration rate of a plant, influenced by the leaf and air temperature difference from the plant’s vicinity and the air pressure deficit of the water vapors from the atmosphere. The experiments were realized in July-August 2008 and 2009 for six species in the cities Pitesti, Mioveni and Maracineni: Cichorium intybus L., Conyza canadensis (L.) Cronq., Erigeron annuus L. (Pers.), Lactuca serriola Torn., Polygonum aviculare L. and Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) Beauv. For those species we calculated the CWSI to estimate the water stress on the selected plants in the urban environment conditions. The analyzed species were exposed to a less accentuated water stress while vegetating in the soil and to a more intense one they were grown in the asphalt cracks. Cichorium intybus had the smallest CWSI value (0.26) while Lactuca serriola the highest one (0.44).

Keywords: ambient stress, anthropic conditions, diagnosis possibilities

BIOSYNTHESIS OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS AND WATER SOLUBLE VITAMINS IN CULANTRO (Eryngium foetidum L.) PLANTLETS AS AFFECTED BY LOW DOSES OF GAMMA IRRADIATION

Amina Abd El-Hamid ALY

Abstract. Explants obtained from in-vitro propagated plantlets of Culantro (Eryngium foetidum L.) were exposed to four dose levels of γ-irradiation (0.0, 10.0, 20.0 and 40.0 Gy) to investigate the biosynthesis of phenolic compounds and water soluble vitamins in Culantro fresh plantlets. Among six identified phenolic compounds, the content of p-cumaric acid was the highest in the
extracts, followed by caffeic acid, coumarin, benzoic acid, salicylic acid and apigenin. Significant increases were observed at dose 40.0 Gy (61.66 mg/g d.w. for flavonoids, 18.02 mg/g d.w, for flavonone and 5.06 mg/g d.w for anthocyanin) compared to control.
On the other hand, the flavonols were decreased by increasing the irradiation dose. Vitamin C was increased in irradiated samples and this increase was in correlation with irradiation dose level. Thiamin, riboflavin and nicotinic acid were enhanced by the applied dose level 10 Gy. In addition, folic acid was enhanced by the dose levels 20 and 40 Gy and not detected for the control and 10 Gy treatments. Meanwhile, pyridoxine was decreased by increasing the irradiation dose level. The results obtained suggested that both low doses of γ-irradiation and tissue culture technique could be used to produce plantlets with high amount of phenolic compounds and water soluble vitamins.

Keywords: Eryngium foetidum L., gamma irradiation, phenolic compounds, water soluble vitamins.