@article{2-s2.0-85207674867,

title = {Correction to: An Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Nanocomposite as a Potential New Biological Agent (Nanomaterials, (2020), 10, 12, (2551), 10.3390/nano10122551)},

author = { M. Dulski and K. Malarz and M. Kuczak and K. Dudek and K. Matus and S. Sułowicz and A. Mrozek-Wilczkiewicz and A. Nowak},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85207674867&doi=10.3390%2fnano14201626&partnerID=40&md5=87fdb2076c18f18db5f6a1fc7c88aee9},

doi = {10.3390/nano14201626},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-01-01},

journal = {Nanomaterials},

volume = {14},

number = {20},

publisher = {Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)},

abstract = {In the original publication [1], there was a mistake in Figure 9, as published. The authors identified an error in the incorrect description of the y-axes’ titles. Specifically, in the lower panel of Figure 9b, the axis title “Cell cycle stage [%]” was corrected to “Cellular subpopulations [%]”. Similarly, in Figure 9c, the title “Cell cycle stage [%]” was corrected to “ROS level [%]”. The corrected Figure 9 appears below. The authors state that the scientific conclusions are unaffected. This correction was approved by the Academic Editor. The original publication has also been updated. Impact of the tested nanocomposites at a 30 mg/L concentration on regulating the cell cycle (a) and inducing apoptosis (b) in the PANC-1 cells. Effect of the tested Ag/SiO2@CMC nanocomposite on the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the PANC-1 cells. Data normalized to the untreated cells (control) (c). Impact of Ag/SiO2@CMC on the expression of the p53, cyclin E1, and HO-1 proteins in the PANC-1 cells. The densitometric analysis of these proteins was normalized to GADPH (d). The results from all experiments are shown as the mean ± standard deviation (SD) of three independent measurements. Any statistical differences from the cell cycle, apoptosis, and immunoblotting experiments were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni’s post-hoc test. Data from ROS measurements were analyzed using the Student’s t-test. Statistical significance: * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001 compared to the control group. © 2024 by the authors.},

note = {0},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85185689642,

title = {Multifaceted Assessment of Porous Silica Nanocomposites: Unraveling Physical, Structural, and Biological Transformations Induced by Microwave Field Modification},

author = { A. Strach and M. Dulski and D. Wasilkowski and K. Matus and K. Dudek and J. Podwórny and P. Rawicka and V. Grebņevs and N. Waloszczyk and A. Nowak and P. Poloczek and S. Golba},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85185689642&doi=10.3390%2fnano14040337&partnerID=40&md5=a78a3ae8adcd364073d866b2c597305e},

doi = {10.3390/nano14040337},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-01-01},

journal = {Nanomaterials},

volume = {14},

number = {4},

publisher = {Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)},

abstract = {In response to the persistent challenge of heavy and noble metal environmental contamination, our research explores a new idea to capture silver through porous spherical silica nanostructures. The aim was realized using microwave radiation at varying power (P = 150 or 800 W) and exposure times (t = 60 or 150 s). It led to the development of a silica surface with enhanced metal-capture capacity. The microwave-assisted silica surface modification influences the notable changes within the carrier but also enforces the crystallization process of silver nanoparticles with different morphology, structure, and chemical composition. Microwave treatment can also stimulate the formation of core–shell bioactive Ag/Ag2CO3 heterojunctions. Due to the silver nanoparticles’ sphericity and silver carbonate’s presence, the modified nanocomposites exhibited heightened toxicity against common microorganisms, such as E. coli and S. epidermidis. Toxicological assessments, including minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) determinations, underscored the efficacy of the nanocomposites. This research represents a significant stride in addressing pollution challenges. It shows the potential of microwave-modified silicas in the fight against environmental contamination. Microwave engineering underscores a sophisticated approach to pollution remediation and emphasizes the pivotal role of nanotechnology in shaping sustainable solutions for environmental stewardship. © 2024 by the authors.},

note = {0},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85184913863,

title = {Decomposition of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs by activated sludge supported by biopreparation in sequencing batch reactor},

author = { A. Dzionek and A. Nowak and D. Wojcieszyńska and I.W. Potocka and W. Smułek and U. Guzik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85184913863&doi=10.1016%2fj.biortech.2024.130328&partnerID=40&md5=39d790eda0f9fbd9643a4146cbc5c18d},

doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2024.130328},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-01-01},

journal = {Bioresource Technology},

volume = {395},

publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},

abstract = {The presence of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in wastewater from sewage treatment plants indicates that they are not completely biodegradable. The designed biopreparation based on immobilized bacteria enables the degradation of paracetamol, ibuprofen, naproxen and diclofenac at a rate of 0.50 mg/L*day, 0.14 mg/L*day, 0.16 mg/L*day and 0.04 mg/L*day, respectively. Lower degradation of drugs in the mixture than in monosubstrate systems indicates their additive, antagonistic effect, limiting the degradative capacity of microorganisms. The biopreparation is stable for at least 6 weeks in bioreactor conditions. Biochemical parameters of activated sludge functioning showed increased oxygen demand, which was related to increased ammonia concentration caused by long-term exposure of activated sludge to drugs. Reduced metabolic activity was also observed. The preparation enables decomposing drugs and their metabolites, restoring the activated sludge's functionality. The tested biopreparation can support activated sludge in sewage treatment plants in degrading non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and phenolic compounds. © 2024 Elsevier Ltd},

note = {1},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85164671680,

title = {Nanopesticide risk assessment based on microbiome profiling – Community structure and functional potential as biomarkers in captan@ZnO35–45 nm and captan@SiO220–30 nm treated orchard soil},

author = { S. Sułowicz and S. Borymski and M. Dulski and A. Nowak and K. Bondarczuk and A. Markowicz},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85164671680&doi=10.1016%2fj.jhazmat.2023.131948&partnerID=40&md5=775ca2f5e1913e2a86016ad201e0f52a},

doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131948},

issn = {03043894},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Hazardous Materials},

volume = {458},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {Nanoformulation should minimise the usage of pesticides and limit their environmental footprint. The risk assessment of two nanopesticides with fungicide captan as an active organic substance and ZnO35–45 nm or SiO220–30 nm as nanocarriers was evaluated using the non-target soil microorganisms as biomarkers. The first time for that kind of nanopesticides next-generation sequencing (NGS) of bacterial 16 S rRNA and fungal ITS region and metagenomics functional predictions (PICRUST2) was made to study structural and functional biodiversity. During a 100-day microcosm study in soil with pesticide application history, the effect of nanopesticides was compared to pure captan and both nanocarriers. Nanoagrochemicals affected microbial composition, especially Acidobacteria-6 class, and alpha diversity, but the observed effect was generally more substantial for pure captan. As for beta diversity, the negative impact was detected only in response to captan and still observed on day 100. Fungal community in the orchard soil showed only a decrease in phylogenetic diversity in captan set-up since day 30. PICRUST2 analysis confirmed several times lower impact of nanopesticides considering the abundance of functional pathways and genes encoding enzymes. Furthermore, the overall data indicated that using SiO220–30 nm as a nanocarrier speeds up a recovery process compared to ZnO35–45 nm. © 2023 Elsevier B.V.},

note = {1},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85161623278,

title = {Copper-oxide nanoparticles exert persistent changes in the structural and functional microbial diversity: A 60-day mesocosm study of zinc-oxide and copper-oxide nanoparticles in the soil-microorganism-nanoparticle system},

author = { S. Borymski and A. Markowicz and A. Nowak and K. Matus and M. Dulski and S. Sułowicz},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85161623278&doi=10.1016%2fj.micres.2023.127395&partnerID=40&md5=05bde6f84916a21ee1cb12f314fd63eb},

doi = {10.1016/j.micres.2023.127395},

issn = {09445013},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {Microbiological Research},

volume = {274},

publisher = {Elsevier GmbH},

abstract = {Recent advances in nanotechnology and development of nanoformulation methods, has enabled the emergence of precision farming – a novel farming method that involves nanopesticides and nanoferilizers. Zinc-oxide nanoparticles serve as a Zn source for plants, but they are also used as nanocarriers for other agents, whereas copper-oxide nanoparticles possess antifungal activity, but in some cases may also serve as a micronutrient providing Cu ions. Excessive application of metal-containing agents leads to their accumulation in soil, where they pose a threat to non-target soil organisms. In this study, soils obtained from the environment were amended with commercial zinc-oxide nanoparticles: Zn-OxNPs(10−30), and newly-synthesized copper-oxide nanoparticles: Cu-OxNPs(1−10). Nanoparticles (NPs) in 100 and 1000 mg kg-1 concentrations were added in separate set-ups, representing a soil-microorganism-nanoparticle system in a 60-day laboratory mesocosm experiment. To track environmental footprint of NPs on soil microorganisms, a Phospholipd Fatty Acid biomarker analysis was employed to study microbial community structure, whereas Community-Level Physiological Profiles of bacterial and fungal fractions were measured with Biolog Eco and FF microplates, respectively. The results revealed a prominent and persistent effects exerted by copper-containing nanoparticles on non-target microbial communities. A severe loss of Gram-positive bacteria was observed in conjunction with disturbances in bacterial and fungal CLPPs. These effects persisted till the end of a 60-day experiment, demonstrating detrimental rearrangements in microbial community structure and functions. The effects imposed by zinc-oxide NPs were less pronounced. As persistent changes were observed for newly synthesized Cu-containing NPs, this work stresses the need for obligatory testing of nanoparticle interactions with non-target microbial communities in long-term experiments, especially during the approval procedures of novel nano-substances. It also underlines the role of in-depth physical and chemical studies of NP-containing agents, which may be tweaked to mitigate the unwanted behavior of such substances in the environment and preselect their beneficial characteristics. © 2023 Elsevier GmbH},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85160978208,

title = {Co-interaction of nitrofuran antibiotics and the saponin-rich extract on gram-negative bacteria and colon epithelial cells},

author = { A. Grzywaczyk and W. Smułek and A.M. Olejnik and U. Guzik and A. Nowak and E. Kaczorek},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85160978208&doi=10.1007%2fs11274-023-03669-2&partnerID=40&md5=131e0472b18b287a953f50261bfecad4},

doi = {10.1007/s11274-023-03669-2},

issn = {09593993},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology},

volume = {39},

number = {8},

publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media B.V.},

abstract = {Large-scale use of nitrofurans is associated with a number of risks related to a growing resistance to these compounds and the toxic effects following from their increasing presence in wastewater and the environment. The aim of the study was to investigate an impact of natural surfactant, saponins from Sapindus mukorossi, on antimicrobial properties of nitrofuran antibiotics. Measurements of bacterial metabolic activity indicated a synergistic bactericidal effect in samples with nitrofurantoin or furazolidone, to which saponins were added. Their addition led to more than 50% greater reduction in viable cells than in the samples without saponins. On the other hand, no toxic effect against human colon epithelial cell was observed. It was found that exposure to antibiotics and surfactants caused the cell membranes to be dominated by branched fatty acids. Moreover, the presence of saponins reduced the hydrophobicity of the cell surface making them almost completely hydrophilic. The results have confirmed a high affinity of saponins to the cells of Pseudomonas strains. Their beneficial synergistic effect on the action of antibiotics from the nitrofuran group was also demonstrated. This result opens promising prospects for the use of saponins from S. mukorossi as an adjuvant to reduce the emission of antibiotics into the environment. © 2023, The Author(s).},

note = {1},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85165181270,

title = {Application of Immobilized Biocatalysts in the Biotransformation of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs},

author = { A. Nowak and A. Dzionek and D. Wojcieszyńska and U. Guzik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85165181270&doi=10.3390%2fapp13137789&partnerID=40&md5=d7c404aacc43dd4a75ef48ee72f2f9f7},

doi = {10.3390/app13137789},

issn = {20763417},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {Applied Sciences (Switzerland)},

volume = {13},

number = {13},

publisher = {Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)},

abstract = {Featured Application: Given the new EU Water Directive, wastewater treatment plants are interested in increasing the efficiency of wastewater treatment in terms of pharmaceuticals. Diclofenac is one of the most common pollutants indicated in the above directive. In connection with the above, the developed preparation, after passing tests on a semi-technical scale, can be used as a factor supporting the work of the sewage treatment plant to remove non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Among the micropollutants identified in the environment, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) dominate more and more often. This is due to both the high consumption and low efficiency of biological wastewater treatment plants, where the initial transformation of NSAIDs most often takes place. The solution to the problem may be using preparations supporting activated sludge in sewage treatment plants in the biodegradation of NSAIDs. Therefore, the research aimed to develop a biopreparation stimulating the activated sludge of the sewage treatment plant to decompose paracetamol and selected NSAIDs. This biopreparation is based on strains of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia KB2, Planococcus sp. S5, Bacillus thuringiensis B1(2015b), and Pseudomonas moorei KB4 immobilized on a plant sponge. As a result of the tests, it was shown that the optimal species composition of the proposed preparation includes all tested strains immobilized on a carrier with a mass of 1.2 g/L. The system optimization showed that the optimal amount of strains on the carrier was 17 mg/g of the carrier, 15 mg/g of the carrier, 18 mg/g of the carrier, and 20 mg/g of the carrier for KB4, B1(2015b), KB2, and S5, respectively. The presence of phenol stimulated the degradation of the tested drugs, and this effect deepened with increasing phenol concentration. At the same time, the degradation rate of the mixture of NSAIDs in the presence of phenol did not depend on the amount of biomass. The lack of inhibition in the presence of an additional co-contaminant, i.e., phenol, indicates that the preparation constructed in this way has a chance of being used in sewage treatment plant systems, where introduced strains are exposed to various aromatic compounds. © 2023 by the authors.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85152690727,

title = {Microwave Irradiation vs. Structural, Physicochemical, and Biological Features of Porous Environmentally Active Silver–Silica Nanocomposites},

author = { A. Strach and M. Dulski and D. Wasilkowski and O. Metryka and A. Nowak and K. Matus and K. Dudek and P. Rawicka and J. Kubacki and N. Waloszczyk and A. Mrozik and S. Golba},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85152690727&doi=10.3390%2fijms24076632&partnerID=40&md5=fdca2399678d249de12b1118dc262558},

doi = {10.3390/ijms24076632},

issn = {16616596},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {International Journal of Molecular Sciences},

volume = {24},

number = {7},

publisher = {Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)},

abstract = {Heavy metals and other organic pollutants burden the environment, and their removal or neutralization is still inadequate. The great potential for development in this area includes porous, spherical silica nanostructures with a well-developed active surface and open porosity. In this context, we modified the surface of silica spheres using a microwave field (variable power and exposure time) to increase the metal uptake potential and build stable bioactive Ag2O/Ag2CO3 heterojunctions. The results showed that the power of the microwave field (P = 150 or 700 W) had a more negligible effect on carrier modification than time (t = 60 or 150 s). The surface-activated and silver-loaded silica carrier features like morphology, structure, and chemical composition correlate with microbial and antioxidant enzyme activity. We demonstrated that the increased sphericity of silver nanoparticles enormously increased toxicity against E. coli, B. cereus, and S. epidermidis. Furthermore, such structures negatively affected the antioxidant defense system of E. coli, B. cereus, and S. epidermidis through the induction of oxidative stress, leading to cell death. The most robust effects were found for nanocomposites in which the carrier was treated for an extended period in a microwave field. © 2023 by the authors.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85144772712,

title = {Assessment of the ecotoxicological impact of captan@ZnO35–45nm and captan@SiO2 20–30nm nanopesticide on non-target soil microorganisms – A 100-day case study},

author = { S. Sułowicz and A. Markowicz and M. Dulski and A. Nowak and D. Środek and S. Borymski},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85144772712&doi=10.1016%2fj.apsoil.2022.104789&partnerID=40&md5=cb952021744fa42dc32a497a08648add},

doi = {10.1016/j.apsoil.2022.104789},

issn = {09291393},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {Applied Soil Ecology},

volume = {184},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {Nanopesticide application should enable efficient pest management with smaller doses of an active ingredient. Nevertheless, the environmental risk assessment of nanopesticides is currently in its initial stages due to limited access to nanopesticides. Therefore, we synthesised nanofungicides with captan as an organic active ingredient and ZnO35–45nm or SiO2 20–30nm as nanocarriers (captan@ ZnO35–45nm and captan@ SiO2 20–30nm) and evaluated their environmental risk by testing different microbial parameters as its potential biomarkers. First, physicochemical analysis (SEM-EDS; XPS; and FTIR) confirmed the presence of captan in nanofungicides, and they maintained 43–61 % antifungal efficiency against pathogen fungi compared to captan. Second, a laboratory toxicity assay (spot test) showed that nanofungicides generally revealed 10–100-fold lower growth inhibition of non-target microbial strains compared to captan. Next, the effect of nanofungicides on the abundance, structure and function of non-target soil microorganisms was evaluated during the 100-day microcosm using orchard soil and compared to control, captan, and nanocarriers. The changes in the total number of bacteria, ammonia-oxidising bacteria (AOB) and fungi were enumerated using the copy number of the qPCR approach based on the copy number of 16S rRNA, amoA and ITS genes. The functional potential and microbial structure were estimated based on Community Level Physiological Profiles (CLPPs) and Phospholipid Fatty Acids (PLFAs) profiles. Generally, results indicated that nanofungicides affected soil microorganisms by changing, in different scale, various microbial parameters, but their negative effect was generally lower than pesticide. Although qPCR results revealed the harmful effect of all tested compounds on total bacteria number (16S rRNA) on day 42, and captan@ZnO35–45nm and nanocarrier SiO2 20–30nm still affected amoA gene copy number on day 100, but the total fungal abundance in orchard soil was not affected. Furthermore, the analyses of functional and structural microbial diversity indicated the recovery process that was the fastest for captan@SiO2 20–30nm nanofungicide. On the contrary, ZnO35–45nm increased and prolonged the negative effect of captan in synthesised nanofungicide and generally exerted a more profound and/or longer effect than SiO2 20–30nm nanocarrier. Therefore we conclude that SiO2 20–30nm has better potential to be used as a nanocarrier compared to ZnO35–45nm. More studies are needed but soil microorganisms as sensitive biomarkers should be used for environmental risk assessment of nanopesticides. © 2022 The Authors},

note = {4},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85136709506,

title = {In situ lysimeter experiment of leaching pollutants from municipal waste with physicochemical status and microbiome condition},

author = { D. Dąbrowska and A. Nowak and M. Sołtysiak and P. Biniecka and V. Nourani and D. Wasilkowski},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85136709506&doi=10.1016%2fj.jhydrol.2022.128309&partnerID=40&md5=86b0fd0a3fdccec0f1355a3f60e2397a},

doi = {10.1016/j.jhydrol.2022.128309},

issn = {00221694},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Hydrology},

volume = {613},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {Lysimeter tests are an ideal supplement to monitoring tests performed in the area of landfills. This article presents an interdisciplinary lysimeter experiment that used hydrogeological, biochemical, and microbiological studies to evaluate the process of leaching pollutants from waste. The obtained results of leachate tests indicate that the EC value was as high as 31 mS/cm which corresponds to poor water quality. Additionally, high concentrations of chlorides (up to 5095 mg/L) and sulphates (up to 10107 mg/L) were observed. The results of microbiological tests confirm the seasonality. The statistically significant (p < 0.05) difference in the number of heterotrophic bacteria was denoted between autumn (1.6·107 CFU cm-3) and winter (1.5·105 CFU cm-3.The analysis of the ability to utilize nitrogen and phosphorus sources showed seasonal differences in the use of substrates containing these biogenic elements. It was observed that nitrogen-containing compounds were most intensively used in winter and the least in spring while phosphorus compounds were the most intensively oxidized in summer. Presented results confirm that lysimeter studies can play a valuable role in the construction of landfills for the best method of waste isolation and limiting the growth of microorganisms. © 2022 The Author(s)},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85138722785,

title = {Implications of Bacterial Adaptation to Phenol Degradation under Suboptimal Culture Conditions Involving Stenotrophomonas maltophilia KB2 and Pseudomonas moorei KB4},

author = { A. Nowak and D. Wasilkowski and A. Mrozik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85138722785&doi=10.3390%2fw14182845&partnerID=40&md5=daa789b3d033592a759ae582024d5b73},

doi = {10.3390/w14182845},

issn = {20734441},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Water (Switzerland)},

volume = {14},

number = {18},

publisher = {MDPI},

abstract = {Despite the well-described abundance of phenol-degrading bacteria, knowledge concerning their degradation abilities under suboptimal conditions is still very limited and needs to be expanded. Therefore, this work aimed to study the growth and degradation potential of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia KB2 and Pseudomonas moorei KB4 strains toward phenol under suboptimal temperatures, pH, and salinity in connection with the activity of catechol dioxygenases, fatty acid profiling, and membrane permeability. The methodology used included: batch culture of bacteria in minimal medium supplemented with phenol (300 mg/L), isolating and measuring the activity of catechol 1,2- and 2,3-dioxygenases, calculating kinetic parameters, chromatographic analysis of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) and determining the membrane permeability. It was established that the time of phenol utilisation by both strains under high temperatures (39 and 40 °C) proceeded 10 h; however, at the lowest temperature (10 °C), it was extended to 72 h. P. moorei KB4 was more sensitive to pH (6.5 and 8.5) than S. maltophilia KB2 and degraded phenol 5–6 h longer. Salinity also influenced the time of phenol removal. S. maltophilia KB2 degraded phenol in the presence of 2.5% NaCl within 28 h, while P. moorei KB4 during 72 h. The ability of bacteria to degrade phenol in suboptimal conditions was coupled with a relatively high activity of catechol 1,2- and/or 2,3-dioxygenases. FAME profiling and membrane permeability measurements indicated crucial alterations in bacterial membrane properties during phenol degradation leading predominantly to an increase in fatty acid saturation and membrane permeability. The obtained results offer hope for the potential use of both strains in environmental microbiology and biotechnology applications. © 2022 by the authors.},

note = {3},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85133266871,

title = {Modeling of Nitrification Kinetics in a Respirometric Biosensor under Suboptimal Conditions},

author = { A. Woźnica and J. Karczewski and C. Kliś and J. Długosz and P. Ziemski and A. Nowak and T. Bernaś},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85133266871&doi=10.3390%2fw14132031&partnerID=40&md5=1e4f5a74cdc187870d4cd664f6a7e521},

doi = {10.3390/w14132031},

issn = {20734441},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Water (Switzerland)},

volume = {14},

number = {13},

publisher = {MDPI},

abstract = {Sensitive detection with cell biosensors requires optimization of their working conditions and standardization of the response in variable physicochemical conditions. The introduction of an analyte to a sensor, which contributes to this variability, may account for the modeling of microbial metabolism. We constructed a multiparameter model of a water toxicity sensor of Automatic Biodetector for Water Toxicity (ABTOW), developed by our group and based on nitrifying bacteria. The model describes the kinetics of nitrification as a function of four orthogonal parameters: temperature, pH, oxygen and ammonium concentration. Furthermore, we characterized the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the ABTOW readout as a function of these parameters. Thus, a region of parameter space corresponding to optimal ABTOW operation is identified and its sensitivity quantified. We applied the model to describe the ABTOW performance in non-equilibrium conditions produced by rapid changes in pH and temperature. In sum, the model based on four physicochemical parameters describes changes in the biosensor's activity, the biological element of which are nitrifying bacteria characterized by simple chemolithoautotrophic metabolism. The description of reaction kinetics through multiparameter modeling in combination with stability analysis can find application in process control in biotechnology, biodetection and environmental research. © 2022 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85108074393,

title = {Adaptation of phenol-degrading Pseudomonas putida KB3 to suboptimal growth condition: A focus on degradative rate, membrane properties and expression of xylE and cfaB genes},

author = { A. Nowak and J. Żur-Pińska and A. Piński and G. Pacek and A. Mrozik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85108074393&doi=10.1016%2fj.ecoenv.2021.112431&partnerID=40&md5=3d172fd5f8869aa2b2590496396fd4b3},

doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.112431},

issn = {01476513},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety},

volume = {221},

publisher = {Academic Press},

abstract = {Detailed characterization of new Pseudomonas strains that degrade toxic pollutants is required and utterly necessary before their potential use in environmental microbiology and biotechnology applications. Therefore, phenol degradation by Pseudomonas putida KB3 under suboptimal temperatures, pH, and salinity was examined in this study. Parallelly, adaptive mechanisms of bacteria to stressful growth conditions concerning changes in cell membrane properties during phenol exposure as well as the expression level of genes encoding catechol 2,3-dioxygenase (xylE) and cyclopropane fatty acid synthase (cfaB) were determined. It was found that high salinity and the low temperature had the most significant effect on the growth of bacteria and the rate of phenol utilization. Degradation of phenol (300 mg L−1) proceeded 12-fold and seven-fold longer at 10 °C and 5% NaCl compared to the optimal conditions. The ability of bacteria to degrade phenol was coupled with a relatively high activity of catechol 2,3-dioxygenase. The only factor that inhibited enzyme activity by approximately 80% compared to the control sample was salinity. Fatty acid methyl ester (FAMEs) profiling, membrane permeability measurements, and hydrophobicity tests indicated severe alterations in bacteria membrane properties during phenol degradation in suboptimal growth conditions. The highest values of pH, salinity, and temperature led to a decrease in membrane permeability. FAME analysis showed fatty acid saturation indices and cyclopropane fatty acid participation at high temperature and salinity. Genetic data showed that suboptimal growth conditions primarily resulted in down-regulation of xylE and cfaB gene expression. © 2021 The Authors},

note = {4},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85098179321,

title = {An organic–inorganic hybrid nanocomposite as a potential new biological agent},

author = { M. Dulski and K. Malarz and M. Kuczak and K. Dudek and K. Matus and S. Sułowicz and A. Mrozek-Wilczkiewicz and A. Nowak},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85098179321&doi=10.3390%2fnano10122551&partnerID=40&md5=34e2e6fb4c91b48611ee5bafa93ede2a},

doi = {10.3390/nano10122551},

issn = {20794991},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Nanomaterials},

volume = {10},

number = {12},

pages = {1-25},

publisher = {MDPI AG},

abstract = {To solve the problem of human diseases caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors or by microorganisms, intense research to find completely new materials is required. One of the promising systems in this area is the silver-silica nanocomposites and their derivatives. Hence, silver and silver oxide nanoparticles that were homogeneously distributed within a silica carrier were fabricated. Their average size was d = (7.8 ± 0.3) nm. The organic polymers (carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and sodium alginate (AS)) were added to improve the biological features of the nanocomposite. The first system was prepared as a silver chlorine salt combination that was immersed on a silica carrier with coagulated particles whose size was d = (44.1 ± 2.3) nm, which coexisted with metallic silver. The second system obtained was synergistically interacted metallic and oxidized silver nanoparticles that were distributed on a structurally defective silica network. Their average size was d = (6.6 ± 0.7) nm. Physicochemical and biological experiments showed that the tiny silver nanoparticles in Ag/SiO2 and Ag/SiO2@AS inhibited E. coli, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and L. plantarum's cell growth as well as caused a high anticancer effect. On the other hand, the massive silver nanoparticles of Ag/SiO2@CMC had a weaker antimicrobial effect, although they highly interacted against PANC-1. They also generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as the induction of apoptosis via the p53-independent mechanism. © 2020 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.},

note = {3},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85097069721,

title = {Autophagy: a necessary defense against extreme cadmium intoxication in a multigenerational 2D experiment},

author = { A. Babczyńska and A. Nowak and A. Kafel and B. Łozowski and M.M. Rost-Roszkowska and M. Tarnawska and M. Augustyniak and M.K. Sawadro and A.E. Molenda},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85097069721&doi=10.1038%2fs41598-020-78316-z&partnerID=40&md5=7ec842d0f44a16b6784907a0728b2823},

doi = {10.1038/s41598-020-78316-z},

issn = {20452322},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Scientific Reports},

volume = {10},

number = {1},

publisher = {Nature Research},

abstract = {Autophagy is a natural process that aims to eliminate malfunctioning cell parts, organelles or molecules under physiological conditions. It is also induced in response to infection, starvation or oxidative stress to provide energy in case of an energy deficit. The aim of this 2-dimensional study was to test if, and if so, how, this process depends on the concentration of cadmium in food (with Cd concentrations from 0 to 352 μg of Cd per g of food (dry weight)—D1 dimension) and the history of selection pressure (160 vs 20 generations of exposure to Cd—D2 dimension). For the study, the 5th instar larvae of a unique strain of the moth Spodoptera exigua that was selected for cadmium tolerance for 160 generations (44 μg of Cd per g of food (dry weight)), as well as 20-generation (11; 22 and 44 μg of Cd per g of food (dry weight)) and control strains, were used. Autophagy intensity was measured by means of flow cytometry and compared with life history parameters: survivability and duration of the 3rd larval stage. The highest values of autophagy markers were found in the groups exposed to the highest Cd concentration and corresponded (with a significant correlation coefficient) to an increased development duration or decreased survivorship in the respective groups. In conclusion, autophagy is probably initiated only if any other defense mechanisms, e.g., antioxidative mechanisms, are not efficient. Moreover, in individuals from pre-exposed populations, the intensity of autophagy is lower. © 2020, The Author(s).},

note = {2},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85096968667,

title = {Impact of an engineered copper-titanium dioxide nanocomposite and parent substrates on the bacteria viability, antioxidant enzymes and fatty acid profiling},

author = { O. Metryka and D. Wasilkowski and A. Nowak and M. Adamczyk-Habrajska and A. Mrozik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85096968667&doi=10.3390%2fijms21239089&partnerID=40&md5=36171fe46e3445942970f5d07bc27ce5},

doi = {10.3390/ijms21239089},

issn = {16616596},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {International Journal of Molecular Sciences},

volume = {21},

number = {23},

pages = {1-18},

publisher = {MDPI AG},

abstract = {Due to the systematic increase in the production of nanomaterials (NMs) and their applications in many areas of life, issues associated with their toxicity are inevitable. In particular, the performance of heterogeneous NMs, such as nanocomposites (NCs), is unpredictable as they may inherit the properties of their individual components. Therefore, the purpose of this work was to assess the biological activity of newly synthesized Cu/TiO2-NC and the parent nanoparticle substrates Cu-NPs and TiO2-NPs on the bacterial viability, antioxidant potential and fatty acid composition of the reference Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis strains. Based on the toxicological parameters, it was found that B. subtilis was more sensitive to NMs than E. coli. Furthermore, Cu/TiO2-NC and Cu-NPs had an opposite effect on both strains, while TiO2-NPs had a comparable mode of action. Simultaneously, the tested strains exhibited varied responses of the antioxidant enzymes after exposure to the NMs, with Cu-NPs having the strongest impact on their activity. The most considerable alternations in the fatty acid profiles were found after the bacteria were exposed to Cu/TiO2-NC and Cu-NPs. Microscopic images indicated distinct interactions of the NMs with the bacterial outer layers, especially in regard to B. subtilis. Cu/TiO2-NC generally proved to have less distinctive antimicrobial properties on B. subtilis than E. coli compared to its parent components. Presumably, the biocidal effects of the tested NMs can be attributed to the induction of oxidative stress, the release of metal ions and specific electrochemical interactions with the bacterial cells. © 2020 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.},

note = {1},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85088957700,

title = {The impact of the functionalization of silica mesopores on the structural and biological features of SBA-15},

author = { M. Dulski and M. Laskowska and S. Sułowicz and T. Krzykawski and O. Pastukh and P.M. Zieliński and P. Pawlik and A. Nowak and Ł. Laskowski},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85088957700&doi=10.1016%2fj.micromeso.2020.110453&partnerID=40&md5=00caca3ae7d7fdaad27d70ad73001b6a},

doi = {10.1016/j.micromeso.2020.110453},

issn = {13871811},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Microporous and Mesoporous Materials},

volume = {306},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {Hydrophobic and hydrophilic silver-functionalized SBA-15 silica nanocomposites were prepared via direct synthesis using the so-called BOTTOM-UP approach to nanotechnology. This process enables silica-based nanocomposites with a controlled metal content to be fabricated. XRD, XPS, Raman, SEM-EDX and TEM methods were used to describe the physicochemical properties of these systems. The surface atomic content of silver (XPS) was estimated at approximately 0.03 at.% and 0.04 at.% compared to the bulk signal (SEM-EDX), which was determined to be about 0.33 at.% and 0.48 at.%, respectively for the non-silylated and silylated systems. The XPS studies that were carried out for these two structures revealed the presence of elemental and/or oxidized silver on the surfaces. However, in the more volumetric XRD studies, there was no clear signal that corresponded to this metal, which suggests the presence of an ionic form of silver. Calcination was used to obtain the silver-decorated porous silica ceramic composites, for which the calcination temperature was determined from TGA/DTG studies. The calcination resulted in the compensation of the surface and bulk atomic content of silver at approximately 0.1 at.% (on both the surface and the bulk). The wettability measurements classified silylated specimens as well as silylated and calcined systems as being hydrophilic and hydrophobic, respectively. Low-angle diffraction confirmed the mesoporous character of the silica with hexagonal pore channels regardless of the degree of functionalization or calcination. The Raman data illustrated the impact of the silver on the propyl-carbonate chains and silica structure. Finally, the most vigorous bactericidal activity was found against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli for a hydrophilic system with a low silver content and a calcined sample with a slightly higher silver concentration. © 2020 Elsevier Inc.},

note = {10},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85085262275,

title = {Transformation and ecotoxicological effects of iodinated X-ray contrast media},

author = { A. Nowak and G. Pacek and A. Mrozik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85085262275&doi=10.1007%2fs11157-020-09534-0&partnerID=40&md5=862877c51bbc69c02b1ddf61385c4840},

doi = {10.1007/s11157-020-09534-0},

issn = {15691705},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Reviews in Environmental Science and Biotechnology},

volume = {19},

number = {2},

pages = {337-354},

publisher = {Springer},

abstract = {Iodinated X-ray contrast media (ICM) such as diatrizoate, iohexol, iomeprol, iopamidol, and iopromide are commonly used in medical imaging for radiological visualization of a variety of anatomic structures. Because of their highly persistent nature and poor removal by conventional wastewater treatment, ICM can often remain unchanged after entering the environment or they are transformed into many different by-products in complex physical, chemical, and biological processes. Large amounts of ICM and their by-products are found in natural waters, groundwater, drinking water (up to 100 µg/L), and even in soil, where they can be a potential threat to the inhabitants of these environments. Because knowledge about the fate of ICM in various environments is dispersed and it concerns specific areas, the main purpose of this review is to summarize the available information about their occurrence, chemical and biological transformation/degradation, and toxicity to living organisms. The topics discussed particularly focus on mechanisms of ICM degradation/transformation in water using advanced oxidation processes and the biotransformation/biodegradation of ICM by microorganisms under different conditions, as well as the toxicity of ICM and their transformation by-products to humans and other organisms. Although environmental risk is not expected from the parent compounds of ICM, their continuous input to the water and the formation of toxic by-products may constitute a long-term potential risk for living organisms. Therefore, monitoring the transport and fate of ICM in various environments seems necessary. © 2020, The Author(s).},

note = {13},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85084456097,

title = {Effects of low concentration of selected analgesics and successive bioaugmentation of the activated sludge on its activity and metabolic diversity},

author = { J. Żur and J. Michalska and A. Piński and A. Mrozik and A. Nowak},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85084456097&doi=10.3390%2fW12041133&partnerID=40&md5=90f5b4c6b8ccf903e458fdb6e230e0c4},

doi = {10.3390/W12041133},

issn = {20734441},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Water (Switzerland)},

volume = {12},

number = {4},

publisher = {MDPI AG},

abstract = {In this study, we evaluated the impact of the successive bioaugmentation of the activated sludge (AS) with the defined bacterial consortium on the activity and functional capacity of the AS microorganisms. In parallel, the removal of low concentrations of the selected non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen; naproxen; diclofenac) and analgesic paracetamol was studied. We found that the addition of the bacterial consortium consisting of three pharmaceuticals-degrading strains Bacillus thuringiensis B1 (2015b), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia KB2, and Pseudomonas moorei KB4 into the AS did not cause any significant changes in the biomass abundance and metabolic activity of the AS microorganisms. Although, the successive bioaugmentation of the AS caused a slight increase in the metabolic diversity, the intensity of carbohydrates usage, and metabolic richness. Microorganisms in the bioaugmented and non-bioaugmented AS were able to degrade the mixture of the analyzed drugs with similar efficiency, however, diclofenac was removed more effectively in the bioaugmented AS. Several metabolites were identified and efficiently utilized, with the exception of 4-OH diclofenac. Two new diclofenac-degrading strains assigned as Serratia proteamaculans AS4 and Rahnella bruchi AS7 were isolated from the diclofenac-treated AS. © 2020 by the authors.},

note = {6},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85079226601,

title = {A whole-cell immobilization system on bacterial cellulose for the paracetamol-degrading Pseudomonas moorei KB4 strain},

author = { J. Żur and A. Piński and J. Michalska and K.T. Hupert-Kocurek and A. Nowak and D. Wojcieszyńska and U. Guzik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85079226601&doi=10.1016%2fj.ibiod.2020.104919&partnerID=40&md5=83d05c44cb2a78963ef96e3d769f2088},

doi = {10.1016/j.ibiod.2020.104919},

issn = {09648305},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {International Biodeterioration and Biodegradation},

volume = {149},

publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},

abstract = {Microorganisms with a high natural ability to degrade xenobiotics, which are usually characterized by a diverse metabolism and unique features, can be used as natural biocatalysts in wastewater treatment or bioaugmentation processes. The immobilization of such strains greatly increases their stability and degradation properties. The most critical issues in designing whole-cell immobilization systems are selecting the suitable carrier and determining the bacterial features that will promote effective immobilization. In this study, we immobilized the paracetamol-degrading Pseudomonas moorei KB4 strain on the bacterial cellulose disks that were produced by Komagataeibacter xylinus E-89370. The KB4 strain immobilized on the cellulose degraded 150 mg L−1 of paracetamol in three series of 50 mg L−1 in each cycle. The average protein concentration and dehydrogenase activity increased after the degradation of each dose. The specific activity (U mg−1 of protein) of the main enzymes involved in the degradation pathway was 0.22 for deaminase, 5.1 for acylamidohydrolase and 3.49 for ring-cleavage hydroquinone 1,2-dioxygenase. The relative expression level of the genes encoding deaminases and acylamidohydrolases increased in the presence of paracetamol, though more prominently in the immobilized than in the free cells. © 2020 Elsevier Ltd},

note = {19},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85074128230,

title = {Impact of temperature on the physicochemical, structural and biological features of copper-silica nanocomposites},

author = { M. Dulski and K. Dudek and J. Podwórny and S. Sułowicz and Z. Piotrowska-Seget and K. Malarz and A. Mrozek-Wilczkiewicz and K. Wolnica and K. Matus and J. Peszke and A. Nowak},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85074128230&doi=10.1016%2fj.msec.2019.110274&partnerID=40&md5=4ca0bcc3c03e0a4eaa660bc1dbe57b03},

doi = {10.1016/j.msec.2019.110274},

issn = {09284931},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Materials Science and Engineering C},

volume = {107},

publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},

abstract = {Classical wet chemical synthesis was used to fabricate a hybrid composite that contained copper nanoparticles (average size ∼1 nm), which were embedded into a silicon oxide carrier. The structural and chemical alternations in the copper-functionalized silica were investigated in systems that were sintered at 573 K, 873 K, 1173 K, and 1473 K. A general trend, which was associated with the transformation of metallic copper with a cubic structure into copper(II) oxide with a monoclinic structure in the heat-treated systems, was found. XPS and FTIR spectroscopies also revealed the presence of copper(I) oxide, which formed a shell around the CuO. SEM and TEM showed gradual densification of the hybrid system at ever higher sintering temperatures, which corresponded with the gradual copper agglomeration. A temperature of 873 K was determined to be the temperature at which amorphous silica was transformed into cristoballite and tridymite, as well as the formation of a bulk-like copper structure. In relation to the physicochemical and structural data, high antimicrobial features that had a relatively low toxicity effect on the normal human fibroblasts (NHDF) below 250 mg/L was found for the initial copper-silica composite and the samples that were sintered at 573 K. In turn, a significant decrease in the biological impact was observed in the samples that were sintered at temperatures above 573 K. As a result, the paper discusses the model of structural modifications in copper-silica nanocomposite concerning their biological impact that was developed. © 2019 Elsevier B.V.},

note = {1},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85070880282,

title = {Ecological restoration of heavy metal-contaminated soil using Na-bentonite and green compost coupled with the cultivation of the grass Festuca arundinacea},

author = { D. Wasilkowski and A. Nowak and J. Michalska and A. Mrozik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85070880282&doi=10.1016%2fj.ecoleng.2019.08.004&partnerID=40&md5=1f8a31274756683d8b80903a831e8773},

doi = {10.1016/j.ecoleng.2019.08.004},

issn = {09258574},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Ecological Engineering},

volume = {138},

pages = {420-433},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {Chemophytostabilization is a valuable alternative to many traditional methods of reducing the concentration of heavy metals in soil affected by industrial activity. In this study two soil additives – Na-bentonite and green compost were used separately and as a mixture combined with Festuca arundinacea to reclaim soil highly contaminated with Cd, Zn and Pb. It was found that a decrease in heavy metal concentrations (57–87% for Cd; 48–91% for Zn and 30–82% for Pb) in the amended soils was connected with the application of soil additives rather than with plant vegetation. Both of the soil additives contributed to achieving a higher biomass of F. arundinacea (1.5- to 9.5-fold) than in the non-amended soil. The accumulation of Cd, Zn and Pb in the plant organs was generally higher in the roots than in the shoots. Both soil additives positively influenced the soil enzymes activity and microbial functional capacity. Moreover, they altered the structure of microbial communities in the chemophytostabilized soils. The calculated soil quality indices confirmed that the combined amendments with grass vegetation were most effective in the soil reclamation than other treatments. The obtained results clearly indicate that the chemophytostabilization creates new opportunities for using bentonite and green compost as well as tall fescue grass to limit the transfer of toxic metals from polluted soils to the trophic levels of ecosystems. © 2019},

note = {9},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85069683622,

title = {Application of hydrogeological and biological research for the lysimeter experiment performance under simulated municipal landfill condition},

author = { D. Dąbrowska and M. Sołtysiak and Pa. Biniecka and J. Michalska and D. Wasilkowski and A. Nowak and V. Nourani},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85069683622&doi=10.1007%2fs10163-019-00900-x&partnerID=40&md5=4fda55bd7f247d1b3d90dd15e96628f9},

doi = {10.1007/s10163-019-00900-x},

issn = {14384957},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Material Cycles and Waste Management},

volume = {21},

number = {6},

pages = {1477-1487},

publisher = {Springer Tokyo},

abstract = {The size and chemical composition of leachates migrating into the aquifer are dependent on the parameters of the waste and the storage conditions. Lysimeter studies allow us to determine the size and chemical composition of leachates as well as the leachate water balance. Lysimeter studies were conducted on a 230-L municipal waste sample for 6 months. During the tests, the specific electrolyte conductivity, pH, Eh, and temperature, as well as the chemical composition, microbiological analysis, and profiling of physiological population level using EcoPlate™ microarrays were measured in collected leachate samples. During the entire experiment, the amounts of inflow and outflow from lysimeters were measured. To assess the existence of significant differences in the chemical component concentrations in leachates, use of Principal Component Analysis was taken into account. The maximum EC value from leachate from the lysimeter was 33 mS/cm. High concentrations of ammonium ion (up to approx. 1400 mg dm−3), chlorides (up to approx. 6800 mg dm−3), and iron (up to approx. 31 mg dm−3) were observed in the effluents. The number of enterococci in May reached 53,000 cells/100 ml. By contrast, the number of these microorganisms was about 15,000 and 16,000 CFU/100 ml in January and April, respectively. Community-level physiological profiling indicates that the activity and functional diversity of microorganisms were higher in the leachate samples obtained in winter compared to effluents collected from lysimeters in spring. © 2019, The Author(s).},

note = {6},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85066952395,

title = {Physicochemical and structural features of heat treated silver-silica nanocomposite and their impact on biological properties},

author = { M. Dulski and J. Peszke and J. Włodarczyk and S. Sułowicz and Z. Piotrowska-Seget and K. Dudek and J. Podwórny and K. Malarz and A. Mrozek-Wilczkiewicz and M. Zubko and A. Nowak},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85066952395&doi=10.1016%2fj.msec.2019.109790&partnerID=40&md5=fff97a32db51f403cd8ec9a6905fae62},

doi = {10.1016/j.msec.2019.109790},

issn = {09284931},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Materials Science and Engineering C},

volume = {103},

publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},

abstract = {In the last few decades, many nanostructures with varying properties and possible applications have been developed. These materials have been intended to work in various environmental temperature conditions. In this context, the main challenge has been to comprehend the impact of synergic interaction between individual elements included in non-annealed materials in relation to systems subjected to temperature impact. Another problem has corresponded to the impact of thermal modification on organisms such as bacteria and human cells. Such problems can be solved by the fabrication of a nanocomposite with mono-dispersed 8 nm silver (Ag0 or Ag+) embedded into a silica carrier, followed by the analysis of the impact of heat treatment under various temperature conditions on its physicochemical features. Therefore, methodical studies reported in this text have shown an increase of silver particle size up to 170 nm, a decrease of its concentration, as well as the formation of sub-nanometer Ag+ and/or Ag2+ clusters as the temperature rises to 1173 K. In turn, the structurally disordered silica carrier had been entirely transformed to cristobalite and tridymite only at 1473 K as well as partial reduction of Ag2+ to Ag+. Simultaneously, inhibition of growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as an increase in cytotoxicity towards human cells was observed as the temperature rose. As a final point, for the first time, a “pseudo” phase diagram of the structural alterations in the Ag/SiO2 nanocomposite has been created, as well as a model of silver-silica transformation to biological systems has been developed. © 2019 Elsevier B.V.},

note = {7},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85072842358,

title = {Toward the Development of an Innovative Implant: NiTi Alloy Functionalized by Multifunctional β-TCP+Ag/SiO2 Coatings},

author = { M. Dulski and K. Dudek and D. Chalon and J. Kubacki and S. Sułowicz and Z. Piotrowska-Seget and A. Mrozek-Wilczkiewicz and R. Gawecki and A. Nowak},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85072842358&doi=10.1021%2facsabm.8b00510&partnerID=40&md5=785458b6b09dd22d299d70bb052dd9ea},

doi = {10.1021/acsabm.8b00510},

issn = {25766422},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

journal = {ACS Applied Bio Materials},

volume = {2},

number = {3},

pages = {987-998},

publisher = {American Chemical Society},

abstract = {In recent years, one of the more important and costly problems of modern medicine is the need to replace or supplement organs in order to improve the quality of human life. In this field, promising solutions seem to have been implants which are based on NiTi alloys with shape memory effects. Unfortunately, this material is susceptible to the corrosion and release of toxic nickel to the human organism. Hence, its application as a long-term material is strongly limited. Therefore, this paper presents a new solution which should help to improve the functionality of the NiTi alloy and elongate its medical stability to use. The idea was focused on functionalization of the implant surface by a biocompatible, multifunctional coating without any impact on the features of the substrate, i.e., the martensitic transformation responsible for shape memory effects. For this purpose, we prepared a colloidal suspension, composed of β-TCP (particle size ∼450 nm) and the Ag/SiO2 nanocomposite which due to the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) led to the formation of structurally atypical calcium phosphosilicate coating. Those biomaterials formed a crack-free coating, adhering well to the NiTi surface when distributed over the entire surface, with low concentration of metallic and oxide silver (<3 at. %). At the same time, the coat-forming materials had resulted in the growth of a Gram-negative bacterial biofilm. Additionally, the additive of the silver-silica composite enhances cell proliferation, effectively a few times higher than commonly used coat-forming materials (e.g.; pure β-TCP). © 2019 American Chemical Society.},

note = {4},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85044113528,

title = {Degradation of 4-chlorophenol and microbial diversity in soil inoculated with single Pseudomonas sp. CF600 and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia KB2},

author = { A. Nowak and A. Mrozik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85044113528&doi=10.1016%2fj.jenvman.2018.03.052&partnerID=40&md5=0cde375a30bef144ff850ed8014c7ed3},

doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2018.03.052},

issn = {03014797},

year  = {2018},

date = {2018-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Environmental Management},

volume = {215},

pages = {216-229},

publisher = {Academic Press},

abstract = {Soil contamination with chlorophenols is a serious problem all over the world due to their common use in different branches of industry and agriculture. The objective of this study was to determine whether bioaugmenting soil with single Pseudomonas sp. CF600 and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia KB2 and additional carbon sources such as phenol (P) and sodium benzoate (SB) could enhance the degradation of 4-chlorophenol (4-CP). During the degradation experiment, the number of bacteria as well as the structural and functional diversity of the soil microbial communities were determined. It was found that the most effective degradation of 4-CP in the soil was observed after it was inoculated with CF600 and the addition of SB. The biodegradation of five doses of 4-CP in this soil proceeded within 100 days. At the same time, the rate of the disappearance of 4-CP in the soil that had been bioaugmented with CF600 and contaminated with 4-CP and P was 5–6.5 times lower compared to its rate of disappearance in the soil that had been contaminated with 4-CP. The biodegradation of 4-CP in all of the treated and untreated soils was accompanied by a systematic decrease in the number of heterotrophic bacteria (THB) ranging between 13 and 40%. It was also proven that the tested aromatic compounds affected the soil microbial community structure through an increase in the marker fatty acids for Gram-negative bacteria (BG-) and fungi (F). The essential changes in the patterns of the fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) for the polluted soil included an increase in the fatty acid saturation and hydroxy fatty acid abundance. The obtained results also indicated that the introduction of CF600 into the soil contaminated with 4-CP and SB or P caused an increase in the functional diversity of the soil microorganisms. In contrast, in the soil that had been inoculated with KB2 and in the non-inoculated soil, the addition of 4-CP and P decreased the microbial activity. In conclusion, the inoculation of both strains into contaminated soil with aromatic compounds caused irreversible changes in the functional and structural diversity of the soil microbial communities. © 2018 Elsevier Ltd},

note = {24},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85025604129,

title = {Impact of potent bioremediation enhancing plant extracts on Raoultella ornithinolytica properties},

author = { A. Zdarta and B. Dudzińska-Bajorek and A. Nowak and U. Guzik and E. Kaczorek},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85025604129&doi=10.1016%2fj.ecoenv.2017.07.044&partnerID=40&md5=3bfc8986439755f04f244541e829187b},

doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2017.07.044},

issn = {01476513},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety},

volume = {145},

pages = {274-282},

publisher = {Academic Press},

abstract = {Long-term contact of microorganisms with different compounds in the environment can cause significant changes in cell metabolism. Surfactants adsorption on cell surface or incorporation in the cell membrane, lead to their modification, which helps microorganisms adopt to the conditions of metabolic stress. The main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of three saponin-reach plant extracts from Hedera helix, Saponaria officinalis and Sapindus mucorossi on growth and adaptation of Raoultella ornithinolytica to high concentrations of these substances. For this purpose we investigated cell surface properties, membrane fatty acids and genetic changes of the microorganisms. The results revealed that prolonged exposure of the microorganisms to high concentrations of these surfactants can induce genetic changes of their genes. Moreover, the adaptation to contact with high concentrations of saponins was also associated with changes in composition of fatty acids responsible for the stabilisation of membrane structure and the increase in membrane permeability. The changes affected also the outer layer of cells. A significant increase (p < 0.05) in the cell surface hydrophobicity of tested strain was also observed. The cells after long-term contact with S. officinalis and S. mucorossi acquire properties that may be favourable in hydrophobic substances bioremediation. © 2017 Elsevier Inc.},

note = {4},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85010723117,

title = {Toxicity and biodegradation of ibuprofen by Bacillus thuringiensis B1(2015b)},

author = { A. Marchlewicz and U. Guzik and K.T. Hupert-Kocurek and A. Nowak and S. Wilczyńska and D. Wojcieszyńska},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85010723117&doi=10.1007%2fs11356-017-8372-3&partnerID=40&md5=f8a6724832ad5bb834800f9207067ea7},

doi = {10.1007/s11356-017-8372-3},

issn = {09441344},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Environmental Science and Pollution Research},

volume = {24},

number = {8},

pages = {7572-7584},

publisher = {Springer Verlag},

abstract = {In recent years, the increased intake of ibuprofen has resulted in the presence of the drug in the environment. This work presents results of a study on degradation of ibuprofen at 25 mg L−1 in the presence of glucose, as an additional carbon source by Bacillus thuringiensis B1(2015b). In the cometabolic system, the maximum specific growth rate of the bacterial strain was 0.07 ± 0.01 mg mL−1 h−1 and Ksμ 0.27 ± 0.15 mg L−1. The maximum specific ibuprofen removal rate and the value of the half-saturation constant were qmax = 0.24 ± 0.02 mg mL−1 h−1 and Ks = 2.12 ± 0.56 mg L−1, respectively. It has been suggested that monooxygenase and catechol 1,2-dioxygenase are involved in ibuprofen degradation by B. thuringiensis B1(2015b). Toxicity studies showed that B. thuringiensis B1(2015b) is more resistant to ibuprofen than other tested organisms. The EC50 of ibuprofen on the B1 strain is 809.3 mg L−1, and it is 1.5 times higher than the value of the microbial toxic concentration (MTCavg). The obtained results indicate that B. thuringiensis B1(2015b) could be a useful tool in biodegradation/bioremediation processes. © 2017, The Author(s).},

note = {37},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85021678961,

title = {Unique properties of silver and copper silica-based nanocomposites as antimicrobial agents},

author = { J. Peszke and M. Dulski and A. Nowak and K. Balin and M. Zubko and S. Sułowicz and B. Nowak and Z. Piotrowska-Seget and E. Talik and M. Wojtyniak and A. Mrozek-Wilczkiewicz and K. Malarz and J. Szade},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85021678961&doi=10.1039%2fc7ra00720e&partnerID=40&md5=6c05b26f09aa8376a25c5d4cf449157d},

doi = {10.1039/c7ra00720e},

issn = {20462069},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {RSC Advances},

volume = {7},

number = {45},

pages = {28092-28104},

publisher = {Royal Society of Chemistry},

abstract = {The paper reports a new route for the fabrication and determination of physicochemical properties and biological activity, of metallic silica-based nanostructure (Ag/SiO2; Cu/SiO2). A research studies shows mono-dispersed nanoparticles in silica matrix with an average size of 12 nm for silver, as well as 12 nm and 4 nm, respectively for copper in hydrophobic and hydrophilic silica composites. The chemical analysis highlights metallic silver and copper ions heterogeneously distributed in the composite as well as metallic oxides such as Ag2O, Cu2O and CuO in hydrophobic system, and CuO in hydrophilic one. Structural research evidences the presence of amorphous, stoichiometric and non-stoichiometric crystalline phase of silica. Biological studies reveal potentially inhibition of growth gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria as well as microscopic fungi. The size of metal nanoparticles and level of silica hydrophobicity show the highest inhibition bacterial growth for hydrophilic system with embedding inside them, 4 nm in size copper nanoparticles. Finally, cytotoxic interaction against human cells with respect to silver and copper silica-based nanocomposites was not found. © 2017 The Royal Society of Chemistry.},

note = {32},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85009089857,

title = {Effects of pulp and Na-bentonite amendments on the mobility of trace elements, soil enzymes activity and microbial parameters under ex situ aided phytostabilization},

author = { D. Wasilkowski and A. Nowak and G.A. Płaza and A. Mrozik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85009089857&doi=10.1371%2fjournal.pone.0169688&partnerID=40&md5=efbbab3650069d908a3bb697b4ceda32},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0169688},

issn = {19326203},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {PLoS ONE},

volume = {12},

number = {1},

publisher = {Public Library of Science},

abstract = {The objective of this study was to explore the potential use of pulp (by-product) from coffee processing and Na-bentonite (commercial product) for minimizing the environmental risk of Zn, Pb and Cd in soil collected from a former mine and zinc-lead smelter. The effects of soil amendments on the physicochemical properties of soil, the structural and functional diversity of the soil microbiome as well as soil enzymes were investigated. Moreover, biomass of Festuca arundinacea Schreb. (cultivar Asterix) and the uptake of trace elements in plant tissues were studied. The outdoor pot set contained the following soils: control soil (initial), untreated soil (without additives) with grass cultivation and soils treated (with additives) with and without plant development. All of the selected parameters were measured at the beginning of the experiment (t0), after 2 months of chemical stabilization (t2) and at the end of the aided phytostabilization process (t14). The obtained results indicated that both amendments efficiently immobilized the bioavailable fractions of Zn (87-91%) and Cd (70-83%) at t14; however, they were characterized by a lower ability to bind Pb (33-50%). Pulp and Na-bentonite drastically increased the activity of dehydrogenase (70- and 12-fold; respectively) at t14, while the activities of urease, acid and alkaline phosphatases differed significantly depending on the type of material that was added into the soil. Generally, the activities of these enzymes increased; however, the increase was greater for pulp (3.5-6-fold) than for the Na-bentonite treatment (1.3-2.2-fold) as compared to the control. Soil additives significantly influenced the composition and dynamics of the soil microbial biomass over the experiment. At the end, the contribution of microbial groups could be ordered as follows: gram negative bacteria, fungi, gram positive bacteria, actinomycetes regardless of the type of soil enrichment. Conversely, the shift in the functional diversity of the microorganisms in the treated soils mainly resulted from plant cultivation. Meanwhile, the highest biomass of plants at t14 was collected from the soil with Na-bentonite (6.7 g dw-1), while it was much lower in a case of pulp treatment (1.43-1.57 g dw-1). Moreover, the measurements of the heavy metal concentrations in the plant roots and shoots clearly indicated that the plants mainly accumulated metals in the roots but that the accumulation of individual metals depended on the soil additives. The efficiency of the accumulation of Pb, Cd and Zn by the roots was determined to be 124, 100 and 26% higher in the soil that was enriched with Nabentonite in comparison with the soil that was amended with pulp, respectively. The values of the soil indices (soil fertility; soil quality and soil alteration) confirmed the better improvement of soil functioning after its enrichment with the pulp than in the presence of Na-bentonite. © 2017 Wasilkowski et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.},

note = {8},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84991728168,

title = {Changes in fatty acid composition of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia KB2 during co-metabolic degradation of monochlorophenols},

author = { A. Nowak and I. Greń and A. Mrozik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84991728168&doi=10.1007%2fs11274-016-2160-y&partnerID=40&md5=423eff60428251d50b8451cb15fb20c0},

doi = {10.1007/s11274-016-2160-y},

issn = {09593993},

year  = {2016},

date = {2016-01-01},

journal = {World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology},

volume = {32},

number = {12},

publisher = {Springer Netherlands},

abstract = {The changes in the cellular fatty acid composition of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia KB2 during co-metabolic degradation of monochlorophenols in the presence of phenol as well as its adaptive mechanisms to these compounds were studied. It was found that bacteria were capable of degrading 4-chlorophenol (4-CP) completely in the presence of phenol, while 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) and 3-chlorophenol (3-CP) they degraded partially. The analysis of the fatty acid profiles indicated that adaptive mechanisms of bacteria depended on earlier exposure to phenol, which isomer they degraded, and on incubation time. In bacteria unexposed to phenol the permeability and structure of their membranes could be modified through the increase of hydroxylated and cyclopropane fatty acids, and straight-chain and hydroxylated fatty acids under 2-CP, 3-CP and 4-CP exposure, respectively. In the exposed cells, regardless of the isomer they degraded, the most important changes were connected with the increase of the contribution of branched fatty acid on day 4 and the content of hydroxylated fatty acids on day 7. The changes, particularly in the proportion of branched fatty acids, could be a good indicator for assessing the progress of the degradation of monochlorophenols by S. maltophilia KB2. In comparison, in phenol-degrading cells the increase of cyclopropane and straight-chain fatty acid content was established. These findings indicated the degradative potential of the tested strain towards the co-metabolic degradation of persistent chlorophenols, and extended the current knowledge about the adaptive mechanisms of these bacteria to such chemicals. © 2016, The Author(s).},

note = {12},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84966710974,

title = {Physicochemical and antibacterial characterization of ionocity Ag/Cu powder nanoparticles},

author = { A. Nowak and J. Szade and E. Talik and M. Zubko and D. Wasilkowski and M. Dulski and K. Balin and A. Mrozik and J. Peszke},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84966710974&doi=10.1016%2fj.matchar.2016.04.013&partnerID=40&md5=d90b94a6c2c0df2f772f2a0d0e5d58ff},

doi = {10.1016/j.matchar.2016.04.013},

issn = {10445803},

year  = {2016},

date = {2016-01-01},

journal = {Materials Characterization},

volume = {117},

pages = {9-16},

publisher = {Elsevier Inc.},

abstract = {Metal ion in bimetallic nanoparticles has shown vast potential in a variety of applications. In this paper we show the results of physical and chemical investigations of powder Ag/Cu nanoparticles obtained by chemical synthesis. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) experiment indicated the presence of bimetallic nanoparticles in the agglomerated form. The average size of silver and copper nanoparticles is 17.1(4) nm (Ag) and 28.9(2) nm (Cu) basing on the X-ray diffraction (XRD) data. X-ray photoelectron (XPS) and Raman spectroscopies revealed the existence of metallic silver and copper as well as Cu2O and CuO being a part of the nanoparticles. Moreover, UV-Vis spectroscopy showed surface alloy of Ag and Cu while Time of Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy (ToF-SIMS) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) showed heterogeneously distributed Ag structures placed on spherical Cu nanoparticles. The tests of antibacterial activity show promising killing/inhibiting growth behaviour for Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.},

note = {30},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84958191678,

title = {Facilitation of Co-Metabolic Transformation and Degradation of Monochlorophenols by Pseudomonas sp. CF600 and Changes in Its Fatty Acid Composition},

author = { A. Nowak and A. Mrozik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84958191678&doi=10.1007%2fs11270-016-2775-5&partnerID=40&md5=81a5f5e1872845cbabde76e07375186a},

doi = {10.1007/s11270-016-2775-5},

issn = {00496979},

year  = {2016},

date = {2016-01-01},

journal = {Water, Air, and Soil Pollution},

volume = {227},

number = {3},

publisher = {Springer International Publishing},

abstract = {In this study, co-metabolic degradation of monochlorophenols (2-CP; 3-CP; and 4-CP) by the Pseudomonas sp. CF600 strain in the presence of phenol, sodium benzoate, and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid as an additional carbon source as well as the survival of bacteria were investigated. Moreover, the changes in cellular fatty acid profiles of bacteria depending on co-metabolic conditions were analyzed. It was found that bacteria were capable of degrading 4-CP completely in the presence of phenol, and in the presence of all substrates, they degraded 2-CP and 3-CP partially. The highest 2-CP and 3-CP removal was observed in the presence of sodium benzoate. Bacteria exhibited three various dioxygenases depending on the type of growth substrate. It was also demonstrated that bacteria exposed to aromatic growth substrates earlier degraded monochlorophenols more effectively than unexposed cells. The analysis of fatty acid profiles of bacteria indicated the essential changes in their composition, involving alterations in fatty acid saturation, hydroxylation, and cyclopropane ring formation. The most significant change in bacteria exposed to sodium benzoate and degrading monochlophenols was the appearance of branched fatty acids. The knowledge from this study indicates that Pseudomonas sp. CF600 could be a suitable candidate for the bioaugmentation of environments contaminated with phenolic compounds. © 2016 The Author(s).},

note = {16},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84963854366,

title = {Microbial degradation of chlorophenols in soil [Mikrobiologiczny rozkład chlorofenoli w glebie]},

author = { A. Nowak and I. Greń and A. Mrozik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84963854366&partnerID=40&md5=f645ddbe6db7494bfc427571d4fe931e},

issn = {00794252},

year  = {2016},

date = {2016-01-01},

journal = {Postepy Mikrobiologii},

volume = {55},

number = {1},

pages = {79-90},

publisher = {Polish Society of Microbiologists},

abstract = {Chlorophenols are widely used in different branches of industry and agriculture as components of pesticides, disinfectants and wood treatment agents. They are hardly degradable and, therefore, can accumulate in the environment. One of the environment friendly methods of their removal from contaminated soil is microbial degradation. The efficiency of this process is determined by many abiotic and biotic factors. The first include the chemical structure of contaminants, their content and bioavailability as well as temperature, pH, soil texture, water content and oxygen concentration. In turn, biotic factors include the structure of microbial communities, stability and enzymatic activity of cells, their biomass, ability to chemotaxis and interactions between microorganisms. Several strategies have been developed to enhance the removal of chlorophenols from contaminated soil. The most effective in detoxifying these compounds are bioaugmentation, biostimulation and the use of "activated soil". In this review, the influence of different factors on microbial degradation of chlorophenols in soil are described and the applicability of selected methods in their removal are discussed.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84947907332,

title = {Rondorfite-type structure - XPS and UV-vis study},

author = { M. Dulski and K. Bilewska and M. Wojtyniak and J. Szade and J. Kusz and A. Nowak and R. Wrzalik and J. Kubacki and E.V. Galuskin},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84947907332&doi=10.1016%2fj.materresbull.2015.06.029&partnerID=40&md5=c82a7fba77439cff6aaa927d1c98203e},

doi = {10.1016/j.materresbull.2015.06.029},

issn = {00255408},

year  = {2015},

date = {2015-01-01},

journal = {Materials Research Bulletin},

volume = {70},

pages = {920-927},

publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},

abstract = {This paper focuses on X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron and UV-vis spectroscopy of two different (green; orange) rondorfite samples. The differences in the sample color originate from various O/Cl ratios. The orange color was found to be related either to the isomorphic substitution of Fe3+/Al3+ for Mg2+, the presence of atypical [MgO4] tetrahedrons in crystal structure or electronegativity of the sample. The tetrahedron is known to be very prone to accumulation of impurities and substitute atoms. Moreover, the XPS data showed tetrahedrally coordinated Mg2+ and isomorphic substitution of Al3+/Fe3+ for Mg2+, which influences local disordering and the point defects density and distribution. Non-equilibrium chlorine positions inside the crystal cages as well as Ca-Cl bonds have also been found. The XPS measurements as a function of temperature indicate occurrence of a structural transformation at about 770 K which is accompanied by a rotation of silicate tetrahedra within magnesiosilicate pentamer and luminescence disappearance. © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.},

note = {2},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84902385351,

title = {Microbial diversity in waters, sediments and microbial mats evaluated using fatty acid-based methods},

author = { A. Mrozik and A. Nowak and Z. Piotrowska-Seget},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84902385351&doi=10.1007%2fs13762-013-0449-z&partnerID=40&md5=b6b64e15d99cba8ebb6301231b950f3d},

doi = {10.1007/s13762-013-0449-z},

issn = {17351472},

year  = {2014},

date = {2014-01-01},

journal = {International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology},

volume = {11},

number = {5},

pages = {1487-1496},

publisher = {Center for Environmental and Energy Research and Studies},

abstract = {The review summarises recent advances towards a greater comprehensive assessment of microbial diversity in aquatic environments using the fatty acid methyl esters and phospholipid fatty acids approaches. These methods are commonly used in microbial ecology because they do not require the culturing of micro-organisms, are quantitative and reproducible and provide valuable information regarding the structure of entire microbial communities. Because some fatty acids are associated with taxonomic and functional groups of micro-organisms, they allow particular groups of micro-organisms to be distinguished. The integration of fatty acid-based methods with stable isotopes, RNA and DNA analyses enhances our knowledge of the role of micro-organisms in global nutrient cycles, functional activity and phylogenetic lineages within microbial communities. Additionally, the analysis of fatty acid profiles enables the shifts in the microbial diversity in pristine and contaminated environments to be monitored. The main objective of this review is to present the use of lipid-based approaches for the characterisation of microbial communities in water columns, sediments and biomats. © 2013 The Author(s).},

note = {18},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84872239075,

title = {Stimulatory Effect of Xenobiotics on Oxidative Electron Transport of Chemolithotrophic Nitrifying Bacteria Used as Biosensing Element},

author = { A. Woźnica and A. Nowak and P. Ziemski and M. Kwaśniewski and T. Bernaś},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84872239075&doi=10.1371%2fjournal.pone.0053484&partnerID=40&md5=02b3ae1029cc57b8d38913093924c259},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0053484},

issn = {19326203},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {PLoS ONE},

volume = {8},

number = {1},

abstract = {Electron transport chain (ETCh) of ammonium (AOB) and nitrite oxidizing bacteria (NOB) participates in oxidation of ammonium to nitrate (nitrification). Operation of ETCh may be perturbed by a range of water-soluble xenobiotics. Therefore, consortia of nitrifying bacteria may be used as a biosensor to detect water contamination. A surprising feature of this system is an increase of oxygen consumption, detected in the presence of certain inhibitors of ETCh. Thus, to shed light on the mechanism of this effect (and other differences between inhibitors) we monitored separately respiration of the bacteria of the first (AOB - Nitrosomonas) and second (NOB -Nitrobacter) stages of nitrification. Furthermore, we measured plasma membrane potential and the level of reduction of NAD(P)H. We propose a novel model of ETCh in NOB to explain the role of reverse electron transport in the stimulation of oxygen consumption (previously attributed to hormesis). © 2013 Woznica et al.},

note = {5},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84857440067,

title = {The localisation of HSP70 and oxidative stress indices in heads of Spodoptera exigua larvae in a cadmium-exposed population},

author = { A. Kafel and A. Nowak and J. Bembenek and J. Szczygieł and M. Nakonieczny and R. Świergosz-Kowalewska},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84857440067&doi=10.1016%2fj.ecoenv.2011.10.024&partnerID=40&md5=3bc04f13cdef21578e60fc5462187bf1},

doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2011.10.024},

issn = {01476513},

year  = {2012},

date = {2012-01-01},

journal = {Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety},

volume = {78},

pages = {22-27},

abstract = {The effects of cadmium toxicity may vary between animals with different history of metal exposure. The aim of our study was to examine HSP70, protein carbonyl levels, catalase activity and total antioxidant capacity in the heads of Spodoptera exigua (Hübner) larvae originated from undergoing 1- and 44-generational cadmium treatment and in control (those that were not exposed to cadmium). We also measured the cadmium concentration and DNA damage level in the larvae.We observed higher level of heat shock proteins (HSPs) in the heads of larvae derived from multi-generational metal treatment than in the heads of those from one-generational treatment (derived from the control rearing). Analysis of HSP localisation in the larval brain suggests that these changes could be important for protecting the neural function of larval mushroom bodies for animals selected during multigenerational metal exposure. Animals from one-generational treatment had, in turn, higher total antioxidant capacity than animals from multigenerational treatment. Anyway, animals from one- and 44-generational metal treatments did not differ in metal accumulation in the heads and the whole larval bodies, catalase activity or DNA damage level. All these measurements were higher than for control larvae and cadmium accumulation in the heads was much lower than in the whole bodies. © 2011 .},

note = {32},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84860400082,

title = {Application of lyophilization to prepare the nitrifying bacterial biofilm for imaging with scanning electron microscopy},

author = { J. Karcz and T. Bernaś and A. Nowak and E. Talik and A. Woźnica},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84860400082&doi=10.1002%2fsca.20275&partnerID=40&md5=bd7759b33a3bb5d23d784ce4f1a8e42a},

doi = {10.1002/sca.20275},

issn = {01610457},

year  = {2012},

date = {2012-01-01},

journal = {Scanning},

volume = {34},

number = {1},

pages = {26-36},

abstract = {Structure of bacterial biofilms may be investigated using several variants of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). We apply lyophilization to prepare nitrifying bacterial biofilm for conventional SEM imaging in high-vacuum mode (CSEM). We therefore replace standard biofilm fixation in glutaraldehyde cross-linking, ethanol dehydration, and critical-point drying (CPD) with less-invasive low-temperature drying by sublimation in vacuum. We compare this approach with: (1) standard preparation with glutaraldehyde fixation, ethanol dehydration, and CPD before CSEM, (2) cryo-sputter preparation of rapidly frozen biofilm in hydrated state (cryo-SEM), and (3) in situ observation without any sample pretreatment in environmental SEM. Combined imaging with these modalities revealed two distinct immobilization patterns on the polyurethane foam: (1) large irregular aggregates (flocs) of bacterial biofilm that exist as irregular biofilm fragments, rope-like structures, or biofilm layers on the foam surface; (2) biofilm threads adherent to the surface of polyurethane foam. Our results indicate that lyophilization was suitable for preservation of bacterial cells and many forms of structure of extracellular matrix. The lyophilized material could be imaged with high resolution (using CSEM) to generate structural information complementary to that obtained with other SEM techniques. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.},

note = {34},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-79451475692,

title = {Spatial architecture of nitrifying bacteria biofilm immobilized on polyurethane foam in an automatic biodetector for water toxicity},

author = { A. Woźnica and J. Karcz and A. Nowak and A. Gmur and T. Bernaś},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-79451475692&doi=10.1017%2fS1431927610093815&partnerID=40&md5=603a0cfce59326febfa6b79789f382c7},

doi = {10.1017/S1431927610093815},

issn = {14319276},

year  = {2010},

date = {2010-01-01},

journal = {Microscopy and Microanalysis},

volume = {16},

number = {5},

pages = {550-560},

abstract = {We describe the architecture of nitrifying bacteria biofilms immobilized on a three-dimensional (3D) polyurethane foam that permits efficient water flow through a bioreactor. The 3D spatial organization of immobilized bacterial colonies is characterized on three resolution levels with X-ray tomography, light confocal microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Using these techniques we demonstrate biofilm distribution in the foam and the existence of several modes of binding of bacteria to the foam. Computed X-ray tomography permits observation of the distribution of the biofilm in the whole open cellular polyurethane material volume and estimation of biofilm volume. SEM and confocal laser scanning microscopy techniques permit 3D visualization of biofilm structure. Three distinct immobilization patterns could be observed in the open cellular polyurethane material: (1) large irregular aggregates of bacterial biofilm that exist as irregular biofilm fragments, rope-like structures, or biofilm layers on the foam surface; (2) spherical (pom-pom) aggregates of bacteria localized on the external surface of biofilm; and (3) biofilm threads adherent to the surface of polyurethane foam. Finally, we demonstrate that immobilized bacteria exhibit metabolic activity and growth. © Microscopy Society of America 2010.},

note = {8},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-77957239169,

title = {Automatic biodetector of water toxicity (ABTOW) as a tool for examination of phenol and cyanide contaminated water},

author = { A. Woźnica and A. Nowak and J. Karczewski and C. Kliś and T. Bernaś},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-77957239169&doi=10.1016%2fj.chemosphere.2010.07.011&partnerID=40&md5=46fe6a643fb051511c387cd40d5e4a5a},

doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2010.07.011},

issn = {00456535},

year  = {2010},

date = {2010-01-01},

journal = {Chemosphere},

volume = {81},

number = {6},

pages = {767-772},

publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},

abstract = {We describe an automatic biodetector for continuous monitoring of water toxicity (ABTOW). Construction of the ABTOW is based on natural ability of the biofilm formation to immobilize consortia of nitrifying bacteria (the sensing element) on the open cellular polyurethane foam as the support. Change of rates of oxygen consumption is used as an indicator of biocatalytic activity (nitrification) of the bacteria in response to xenobiotics. Owing to this design the ABTOW features stability long-term use, is inexpensive and simple in operation. The dynamics of ABTOW response is studied in details for phenol and cyanide as model toxins. These data indicate that the sensitivity was 3.5μM for phenol and 0.19μM for cyanide, respectively. The magnitudes of toxic effect were proportional to concentration whereas kinetics of the response is an indicator for the mechanism of toxicity. Similar methodology is applied to quantify toxicity of a range of heavy metals, herbicides and oxidative chain inhibitors. One may conclude that the presented biodetector provides a good sensitivity for continuous on-line monitoring of toxicity in water. © 2010 Elsevier Ltd.},

note = {11},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-75449120080,

title = {Monitoring structure and activity of nitrifying bacterial biofilm in an automatic biodetector of water toxicity},

author = { A. Woźnica and A. Nowak and C. Beimfohr and J. Karczewski and T. Bernaś},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-75449120080&doi=10.1016%2fj.chemosphere.2009.12.035&partnerID=40&md5=7d9825b9b731fb593461d73a8f72643f},

doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2009.12.035},

issn = {00456535},

year  = {2010},

date = {2010-01-01},

journal = {Chemosphere},

volume = {78},

number = {9},

pages = {1121-1128},

publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},

abstract = {Automatic biodetector of water toxicity is a biosensor based on monitoring of catalytic activity of the nitrifying bacteria. To create a standardized biosensing system, development of the biofilm must be characterized to determine the prerequisites for its biological (biocatalytic) stability. In this paper, growth of biofilm comprising ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) in the open cellular polyurethane material polyurethane sponge bioreactor has been investigated. Dynamics of the biofilm formation was estimated using AOB and NOB metabolic activity and the volume occupied by these two types of bacteria in the biofilm. Spectrophotometry liquid ion chromatography and image cytometry were used, respectively, for these measurements. A mathematical model of the dynamics of biofilm formation was established. These data indicate that open cellular polyurethane material is a good basis for the immobilization of nitrifying bacteria. Moreover, growth of the biofilm leads to its stable structural form, whose biocatalytic activity (12.29 for AOB and 6.84 μmol min-1 for NOB) is constant in the long term. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.},

note = {13},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}