Molecular Design Using Selected Concentration Effects in Optically Activated Fluorescent Matrices

Molecular physics plays a pivotal role in various fields, including medicine, pharmaceuticals, and broader industrial applications. This study aims to enhance the methods for producing specific optically active materials with distinct spectroscopic properties at the molecular level, which are crucial for these sectors, while prioritizing human safety in both production and application. Forensic science, a significant socio-economic field, often employs hazardous substances in analyzing friction ridges on porous surfaces, posing safety concerns. In response, we formulated novel, non-toxic procedures for examining paper evidence, particularly thermal papers. Our laboratory model utilizes a polyvinyl alcohol polymer as a rigid matrix to emulate the thermal paper's environment, enabling precise control over the spectroscopic characteristics of 1,8-diazafluoro-9-one (DFO). We identified and analyzed the cyclodimer 1,8-diazafluoren-9-one (DAK DFO), which is a non-toxic and biocompatible alternative for revealing forensic marks. The reagents used to preserve fingerprints were optimized for their effectiveness and stability. Using stationary absorption and emission spectroscopy, along with time-resolved emission studies, we verified the spectroscopic attributes of the new structures under deliberate aggregation conditions. Raman spectroscopy and quantum mechanical computations substantiated the cyclodimer's configuration. The investigation provides robust scientific endorsement for the novel compound and its structural diversity, influenced by the solvatochromic sensitivity of the DFO precursor. Our approach to monitoring aggregation processes signifies a substantial shift in synthetic research paradigms, leveraging simple chemistry to yield an innovative contribution to forensic science methodologies.

Analysis of friction ridge evidence for trace amounts of paracetamol in various pharmaceutical industries by Raman spectroscopy

The detection of potentially harmful substances presents a multifaceted challenge. On one hand, it can directly save lives, on the other, it can significantly aid and enhance police work, thereby increasing the effectiveness of investigations. The research conducted in this study primarily aims to identify paracetamol in fingerprints, considering situations involving direct contact of a person with paracetamol either chronically or in a single dose. The identification procedure presented, utilizing Raman spectroscopy, aims to rapidly detect the xenobiotic following ingestion by an individual, which involves touching the tablet with their fingers-this can be termed as touch evidence in forensic science investigations. Additionally, the authors focus on assessing the impact of additives present in drugs containing paracetamol as the main active ingredient. The screening results obtained will enable us to analyze the composition of drugs in terms of potentially toxic substances, and their influence on the physicochemical activity of the active substance. We successfully identified the paracetamol molecule using a noninvasive forensic trace detection method. Samples in the form of common drugs containing 500 mg of paracetamol were studied. Throughout the study, comprehensive validation of the method was ensured through the utilization of a statistical model, which excluded sensitivity to the presence of other substances, whether additives or from the external environment. The proposed approach to trace the content of substances in fingerprint using Raman scattering analysis provides a useful starting point to enhance current analytical methods not only in forensic science but also in toxicology.

Efficient removal of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) from industrial/military wastewater using anodic oxidation on boron-doped diamond electrodes

With growing public concern about water quality particular focus should be placed on organic micropollutants, which are harmful to the environment and people. Hence, the objective of this research is to enhance the security and resilience of water resources by developing an efficient system for reclaiming industrial/military wastewater and protecting recipients from the toxic and cancerogenic explosive compound-2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), which has been widely distributed in the environment. This research used an anodic oxidation (AO) process on a boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrode for the TNT removal from artificial and real-life matrices: marine water and treated wastewater. During experiments, TNT concentrations were significantly decreased, reaching the anodic degradation efficiency of above 92% within two hours and > 99.9% after six hours of environmental sample treatment. The presented results show the great potential of AO performed on BDD anodes for full-scale application in the industry and military sectors for TNT removal.

Discriminating macromolecular interactions based on an impedimetric fingerprint supported by multivariate data analysis for rapid and label-free Escherichia coli recognition in human urine

This manuscript presents a novel approach to address the challenges of electrode fouling and highly complex electrode nanoarchitecture, which are primary concerns for biosensors operating in real environments. The proposed approach utilizes multiparametric impedance discriminant analysis (MIDA) to obtain a fingerprint of the macromolecular interactions on flat glassy carbon surfaces, achieved through self-organized, drop-cast, receptor-functionalized Au nanocube (AuNC) patterns. Real-time monitoring is combined with singular value decomposition and partial least squares discriminant analysis, which enables selective identification of the analyte from raw impedance data, without the use of electric equivalent circuits. As a proof-of-concept, the authors demonstrate the ability to detect Escherichia coli in real human urine using an aptamer-based biosensor that targets RNA polymerase. This is significant, as uropathogenic E. coli is a difficult-to-treat pathogen that is responsible for the majority of hospital-acquired urinary tract infection cases. The proposed approach offers a limit of detection of 11.3 CFU/mL for the uropathogenic E. coli strain No. 57, an analytical range in all studied concentrations (up to 105 CFU/mL), without the use of antifouling strategies, yet not being specific vs other E.coli strain studied (BL21(DE3)). The MIDA approach allowed to identify negative overpotentials (-0.35 to -0.10 V vs Ag/AgCl) as most suitable for the analysis, offering over 80% sensitivity and accuracy, and the measurement was carried out in just 2 min. Moreover, this approach is scalable and can be applied to other biosensor platforms.

Engineering boron and nitrogen codoped carbon nanoarchitectures to tailor molecularly imprinted polymers for PFOS determination

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have gained significant attention as emerging contaminants due to their persistence, abundance, and adverse health effects. Consequently, the urgent need for ubiquitous and effective sensors capable of detecting and quantifying PFAS in complex environmental samples has become a priority. In this study, we present the development of an ultrasensitive molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) electrochemical sensor tailored by chemically vapour-deposited boron and nitrogen codoped diamond-rich carbon nanoarchitectures for the selective determination of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). This approach allows for a multiscale reduction of MIP heterogeneities, leading to improved selectivity and sensitivity in PFOS detection. Interestingly, the peculiar carbon nanostructures induce a specific distribution of binding sites in the MIPs that exhibit a strong affinity for PFOS. The designed sensors demonstrated a low limit of detection (1.2 μg L^-1) and exhibited satisfactory selectivity and stability. To gain further insights into the molecular interactions between diamond-rich carbon surfaces, electropolymerised MIP, and the PFOS analyte, a set of density functional theory (DFT) calculations was performed. Validation of the sensor's performance was carried out by successfully determining PFOS concentrations in real complex samples, such as tap water and treated wastewater, with average recovery rates consistent with UHPLC-MS/MS results. These findings demonstrate the potential of MIP-supported diamond-rich carbon nanoarchitectures for water pollution monitoring, specifically targeting emerging contaminants. The proposed sensor design holds promise for the development of in situ PFOS monitoring devices operating under relevant environmental concentrations and conditions.

Texture or Linker? Competitive Patterning of Receptor Assembly toward Ultra-Sensitive Impedimetric Detection of Viral Species at Gold-Nanotextured Titanium Surfaces

In this work, we study the electrodes with a periodic matrix of gold particles pattered by titanium dimples and modified by 3-mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) followed by CD147 receptor grafting for specific impedimetric detection of SARS-CoV-2 viral spike proteins. The synergistic DFT and MM/MD modeling revealed that MPA adsorption geometries on the Au-Ti surface have preferential and stronger binding patterns through the carboxyl bond inducing an enhanced surface coverage with CD147. Control of bonding at the surface is essential for oriented receptor assembling and boosted sensitivity. The complex Au-Ti electrode texture along with optimized MPA concentration is a crucial parameter, enabling to reach the detection limit of ca. 3 ng mL-1. Scanning electrochemical microscopy imaging and quantum molecular modeling were performed to understand the electrochemical performance and specific assembly of MPA displaying a free stereo orientation and not disturbed by direct interactions with closely adjacent receptors. This significantly limits nonspecific interceptor reactions, strongly decreasing the detection of receptor-binding domain proteins by saturation of binding groups. This method has been demonstrated for detecting the SARS virus but can generally be applied to a variety of protein-antigen systems. Moreover, the raster of the pattern can be tuned using various anodizing processes at the titania surfaces.

Closing the loop: Upcycling secondary waste materials into nanoarchitectured carbon composites for the electrochemical degradation of pharmaceuticals

In this study, we demonstrated the application of electrochemical oxidation as a safer and cleaner technology for minimizing the impact of pharmaceuticals in wastewaters, simultaneously mediated by upcycled secondary waste materials (SWMs)-derived electrodes, to further reduce their environmental impact. The modularity, scalability, ease of operation and reliability make electrochemical oxidation an ideal process for the destruction of emerging persistent pollutants; however, their full-scale application is hindered by energy efficiency and the potential release of toxic by-products. Thus, the answer to these issues can be found in the design of tailored multifunctional electrode material. For the first time, SWMs derived from combustion and industrial processes have been employed with the simultaneous dual function of functional fillers, in a polyacrylonitrile fibrous matrix, and as a catalyst for the growth of carbon nanofeatures over the fiber surface, to increase the surface area and charge transfer. Next, the tailored composites were employed as anodes for the electrochemical oxidation of acetaminophen, both in phosphate buffer and in a real wastewater sample. The results suggest that SWMs can substitute costly engineered fillers in carbon-based electrodes and that the absence of reaction by-products (monitored by UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS), together with the low energy consumption, make the tailored fibrous composite electrodes good candidates for the development of safer and cleaner technologies with reduced environmental impact.

Enhanced susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD protein assay targeted by cellular receptors ACE2 and CD147: Multivariate data analysis of multisine impedimetric response

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) enters the cells through the binding of spike protein to the host cell surface-expressing angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) or by endocytosis mediated by extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (CD147). We present extended statistical studies of the multisine dynamic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (DEIS) revealing interactions between Spike RBD and cellular receptors ACE2 and CD147, and a reference anti-RBD antibody (IgG2B) based on a functionalised boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrode. The DEIS was supported by a multivariate data analysis of a SARS-CoV-2 Spike RBD assay and cross-correlated with the atomic-level information revealed by molecular dynamics simulations. This approach allowed us to study and detect subtle changes in the electrical properties responsible for the susceptibility of cellular receptors to SARS-CoV-2, revealing their interactions. Changes in electrical homogeneity in the function of the RBD concentration led to the conclusion that the ACE2 receptor delivers the most homogeneous surface, delivered by the high electrostatic potential of the relevant docking regions. For higher RBD concentrations, the differences in electrical homogeneity between electrodes with different receptors vanish. Collectively, this study reveals interdependent virus entry pathways involving separately ACE2, CD147, and spike protein, as assessed using a biosensing platform for the rapid screening of cellular interactions (i.e. testing various mutations of SARS-CoV-2 or screening of therapeutic drugs).

Electrochemical oxidation of landfill leachate using boron-doped diamond anodes: pollution degradation rate, energy efficiency and toxicity assessment

Electrochemical oxidation (EO), due to high efficiency and small carbon footprint, is regarded as an attractive option for on-site treatment of highly contaminated wastewater. This work shows the effectiveness of EO using three boron-doped diamond electrodes (BDDs) in sustainable management of landfill leachate (LL). The effect of the applied current density (25-100 mA cm^-2) and boron doping concentration (B/C ratio: 500 ppm, 10,000 ppm and 15,000 ppm) on the performance of EO was investigated. It was found that, of the electrodes used, the one most effective at COD, BOD₂₀ and ammonia removal (97.1%, 98.8% and 62%, respectively) was the electrode with the lowest boron doping. Then, to better elucidate the ecological role of LLs, before and after EO, cultivation of faecal bacteria and microscopic analysis of total (prokaryotic) cell number, together with ecotoxicity assay (Daphnia magna, Thamnocephalus platyurus and Artemia salina) were combined for the two better-performing electrodes. The EO process was very effective at bacterial cell inactivation using each of the two anodes, even within 2 h of contact time. In a complex matrix of LLs, this is probably a combined effect of electrogenerated oxidants (hydroxyl radicals, active chlorine and sulphate radicals), which may penetrate into the bacterial cells and/or react with cellular components. The toxicity of EO-treated LLs proved to be lower than that of raw ones. Since toxicity drops with increased boron doping, it is believed that appropriate electrolysis parameters can diminish the toxicity effect without compromising the nutrient-removal and disinfection capability, although salinity of LLs and related multistep-oxidation pathways needs to be further elucidated.

Performance of electrochemical immunoassays for clinical diagnostics of SARS-CoV-2 based on selective nucleocapsid N protein detection: Boron-doped diamond, gold and glassy carbon evaluation

The 21st century has already brought us a plethora of new threats related to viruses that emerge in humans after zoonotic transmission or drastically change their geographic distribution or prevalence. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was first spotted at the end of 2019 to rapidly spread in southwest Asia and later cause a global pandemic, which paralyzes the world since then. We have designed novel immunosensors targeting conserved protein sequences of the N protein of SARS-CoV-2 based on lab-produced and purified anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antibodies that are densely grafted onto various surfaces (diamond/gold/glassy carbon). Titration of antibodies shows very strong reactions up to 1:72 900 dilution. Next, we showed the mechanism of interactions of our immunoassay with nucleocapsid N protein revealing molecular recognition by impedimetric measurements supported by hybrid modeling results with both density functional theory and molecular dynamics methods. Biosensors allowed for a fast (in less than 10 min) detection of SARS-CoV-2 virus with a limit of detection from 0.227 ng/ml through 0.334 ng/ml to 0.362 ng/ml for glassy carbon, boron-doped diamond, and gold surfaces, respectively. For all tested surfaces, we obtained a wide linear range of concentrations from 4.4 ng/ml to 4.4 pg/ml. Furthermore, our sensor leads to a highly specific response to SARS-CoV-2 clinical samples versus other upper respiratory tract viruses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, or Epstein-Barr virus. All clinical samples were tested simultaneously on biosensors and real-time polymerase chain reactions.

Insights into the microbial community of treated wastewater, its year-round variability and impact on the receiver, using cultivation, microscopy and amplicon-based methods

Apart from chemical constituents, wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluents also release microorganisms that can be important to the receiving water bodies either from a sanitary point of view, or taking to the account the biogeochemical potential of the recipients. However, little is known about the treated wastewater microbial community, its composition, seasonal changes, functions and fate in the waters of the receiver. Thus, this study presents a synergistic approach coupling new and traditional methods: analytical chemistry, classical microbiology (cultivation- and microscopy-based methods), as well as Next Generation Sequencing and a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The results show that in terms of bacterial community composition, treated wastewater differed from the environmental samples, irrespectively if they were related or unrelated to the WWTP effluent discharge. The canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) taking into account chemical parameters and taxonomical biodiversity indirectly confirmed the seasonal deterioration of the treated wastewater quality as a result of temperature-driven change of activated sludge community structure and biomass washout (observed also by DAPI staining). Despite seasonal fluctuations of total suspended solids and inter-related parameters (such as COD, BOD, TN, TP), the treated wastewater quality remained within current discharge limits. It was due to treatment processes intensively adjusted by WWTP operators, particularly those necessary to maintain an appropriate rate of autotrophic processes of nitrification and to support biological phosphorus removal. This can explain the observed microbiome composition similarity among WWTP effluents at high taxonomic levels. Obtained data also suggest that besides wastewater treatment efficiency, WWTP effluents are still sources of both human-related microorganisms as well as bacteria equipped in genes involved in N-cycling. Their potential of participation in nutrients cycling in the receivers is widely unknown and require critical attention and better understanding.

Simultaneous opto-electrochemical monitoring of carbamazepine and its electro-oxidation by-products in wastewater

The growing human impact on aquatic environments deriving from the extensive use of pharmaceuticals and the release of persistent pollutants necessitates the implementation of new, widespread methods for characterising and quantifying such contaminants and their related degradation products. Carbamazepine, 5 H-dibenzo[b,f]azepine-5-carboxamide, (CBZ) is a widely used anti-epileptic drug characterised by limited removal by conventional wastewater treatments and high persistency in the environment. In this work, CBZ detection and quantification was performed in phosphate buffer, as well as in samples of complex matrix-like landfill leachates and treated wastewater originating from a medical facility, and simultaneously by optical and electrochemical methods using a novel transparent carbon-based nanostructured electrode. Coupling electrochemical (differential pulse voltammetry) with optical (UV-visible spectroscopy) methods, it has been possible to reach the limit of detection (LOD) for CBZ at the levels of 4.7 μM for the electrochemical method, 10.3 μM for the spectroscopic method, and 3.6 μM for the opto-electrochemical method. Raman spectroscopy and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry techniques were employed to support and validate the combined technique. The novel developed technique showed high selectivity to carbamazepine and its by-products, even in environmental samples. Thus, this environmentally friendly, fast and accurate detection method is believed to be successfully implementable in investigating other pharmaceutical and chemical contaminates of concern.

The microbial community, its biochemical potential, and the antimicrobial resistance of Enterococcus spp. in Arctic lakes under natural and anthropogenic impact (West Spitsbergen)

The sustainable management of small human communities in the Arctic is challenging. In this study, both a water supply system (Lake 1) under the natural impact of a bird-nesting area, and a wastewater receiver (Lake 2) were analysed in the vicinity of the Polish Polar Station on West Spitsbergen. Microbial community composition, abundance and activity were assessed in samples of the treated wastewater, lake water and sediments using next-generation sequencing and direct microscope counts. Special attention was given to the faecal indicator, Enterococcus spp., whose occurrence and antimicrobial resistance were tested in water and wastewater samples. The results indicate that Lake 1, at a tundra stream discharge (L-TS) and a water supply point (L-WS) were dominated by three phyla: Proteobacteria (57-58%) Bacteroidetes (27-29%) and Actinobacteria (9-10%), showing similar microbial composition up to the genus level. This suggests that nutrient-rich runoff from the bird colony was retained by surrounding tundra vegetation and reached Lake 1 at L-TS to a limited extent. Lake 2, being the wastewater recipient (WW-R), mirrors to some extent the core phyla of treated wastewater (WW-E), but in different shares. This suggests the possible washout of wastewater-related bacteria with activated sludge flocs, which was also supported by the microscopic observations. Compared to Lake 1, in WW-R an increase in all tested parameters was noted: total prokaryotic cell number, average cell volume, prokaryotic biomass and live cell percentage. The presence of Enterococcus spp. antibiotic resistance patterns highlight the importance of human associated microbiome and resistome dissemination via wastewater discharge. Moreover, it can be expected that temperature-related biochemical processes (e.g. nutrient cycling) may be accelerated by the ongoing climate change. Thus, proper wastewater treatment requires locally adapted solutions in increasingly visited and inhabited polar regions. Additionally, microbial community discharged to the environment with the treated wastewater, requires critical attention.

Electrochemical oxidation of PFOA and PFOS in landfill leachates at low and highly boron-doped diamond electrodes

Polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) may reach landfill leachates (LLs) due to improper waste management. In this study perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS) were used as representatives of PFASs in the decomposition on boron-doped diamond electrodes (BDDs) with high (10k ppm) and low (0.5k ppm) boron doping concentrations. The result shows that although better COD removal efficacies are obtained on the low-doped BDD (59 % after 8 h), the decomposition rate of PFOA and PFOS was not affected by boron doping. In LLs, at the current density of 75 mA/cm², averaged removal efficiencies of 80 % and 78 % were achieved for PFOA and PFOS, respectively. But besides concentration of mother compounds, the presence of intermediates during electrolysis should be monitored. After 8 h of LL electrolysis, the presence of long-chain degradates C₆F₁₃ and C₆F₁₃COO^- was still observed only in 10k BDD-PFOA assays, while during 0.5k assays C₆F₁₃ and C₆F₁₃COO^- form more intesively at the beginning of the process. This indirectly confirms the more intensive generation of perfluoroalkoxy and hydroxyl radicals and higher susceptibility to electrolysis of PFOA's long-chain intermediates on 0.5k BDD. This is the first study reporting BDD-electrolysis as promising in PFAS removal from the complex matrix of LLs, despite the oxidation of competing LLs components.

Carbon nanoarchitectures as high-performance electrodes for the electrochemical oxidation of landfill leachate

Nanomaterials and assemblies of the aforementioned into complex architectures constitute an opportunity to design efficient and selective solutions to widespread and emerging environmental issues. The limited disposal of organic matter in modern landfills generates extremely concentrated leachates characterised by high concentrations of refractory compounds. Conventional biochemical treatment methods are unsuitable, while advanced treatment, such coagulation, reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration can be very costly and generate additional waste. Electrochemical oxidation is an established technique to efficiently mineralise a plethora of recalcitrant pollutants, however the selectivity and efficiency of the process are strongly related to the anode material. For this reason, a nanoarchitectured carbon material has been designed and synthesised to improve the capability of the anode towards the adsorption and decomposition of pollutants. Instead of simple nanostructures, intelligently engineered nanomaterials can come in handy for more efficient advanced treatment techniques. In this study, a carbon nanoarchitecture comprising boron-doped vertically aligned graphene walls (BCNWs) were grown on a boron-doped diamond (BDD) interfacial layer. The results show how the peculiar maze-like morphology and the concurrence of different carbon hybridisations resulted in a higher current exchange density. The BDD performed better for the removal of NH₄⁺ while the BCNW-only sample exhibited a faster deactivation. The BDD/BCNW nanoarchitecture resulted in an enhanced COD removal and a NH₄⁺ removal similar to that of BDD, without the intermediate production of NO₂^- and NO₃^-.

The Luminescence of 1,8-Diazafluoren-9-One/Titanium Dioxide Composite Thin Films for Optical Application

The investigation of innovative label-free α-amino acids detection methods represents a crucial step for the early diagnosis of several diseases. While 1,8-diazafluoren-9-one (DFO) is known in forensic application because of the fluorescent products by reacting with the amino acids present in the papillary exudate, its application for diagnostic purposes has not been fully investigated. The stabilization of DFO over a transparent substrate allows its complexation with biomolecules for the detection of α-amino acids. In this study, DFO was immobilized into a titanium dioxide (TiO₂) matrix for the fluorescence detection of glycine, as a target α-amino acid (a potential marker of the urogenital tract cancers). The DFO/TiO₂ composite was characterized by atomic force microscopy, spectroscopic ellipsometry, fluorescence spectroscopy and fluorescence microscopy. The performed fluorescent studies indicate spectacular formation of aggregates at higher concentration. The measurements performed using various fluorescence and microscopic techniques together with the suitable analysis show that the aggregates are able to emit short-lived fluorescence.

Tailoring Electro/Optical Properties of Transparent Boron-Doped Carbon Nanowalls Grown on Quartz

Carbon nanowalls (CNWs) have attracted much attention for numerous applications in electrical devices because of their peculiar structural characteristics. However, it is possible to set synthesis parameters to vary the electrical and optical properties of such CNWs. In this paper, we demonstrate the direct growth of highly transparent boron-doped nanowalls (B-CNWs) on optical grade fused quartz. The effect of growth temperature and boron doping on the behavior of boron-doped carbon nanowalls grown on quartz was studied in particular. Temperature and boron inclusion doping level allow for direct tuning of CNW morphology. It is possible to operate with both parameters to obtain a transparent and conductive film; however, boron doping is a preferred factor to maintain the transparency in the visible region, while a higher growth temperature is more effective to improve conductance. Light transmittance and electrical conductivity are mainly influenced by growth temperature and then by boron doping. Tailoring B-CNWs has important implications for potential applications of such electrically conductive transparent electrodes designed for energy conversion and storage devices.

Efficiency of landfill leachate treatment in a MBR/UF system combined with NF, with a special focus on phthalates and bisphenol A removal

In this study, a pilot-scale membrane bioreactor (MBR) was operated at a municipal solid waste plant (MSWP) to treat a mixture of landfill leachates (LLs) obtained from modern (MP-LLs) and previous (PP-LLs) waste cells. The MBR unit combined anoxic and aerobic zones with external ultra- and nanofiltration (MBR/UF and MBR/UF/NF, respectively). In addition to the removal of macropollutants, special attention was given to phthalates (PAEs) and bisphenol A (BPA). According to the obtained results, the MBR/UF system with acclimated biomass was effective for treating LLs, and the obtained effluent was generally similar in quality to raw municipal wastewater. The MBR biomass showed high potential for BPA and PAEs biodegradation/biotransformation as confirmed by a metagenomic approach. Only a high chloride concentration (1960 mg Cl^-/L), which was twice the value acceptable by Polish regulations for industrial wastewater entering the municipal wastewater system, justifies the additional usage of the NF unit. Notably, a decreasing amount of biodegradable organic matter in MBR influent is expected with time because of changes in the biochemistry of modern waste cells; therefore, an external carbon source would probably be needed to support denitrification. However, the cooccurrence of an aerobic and anaerobic ammonia-oxidizing community with denitrifying bacteria provides the opportunity for advanced removal of nitrogen and organic carbon.

A Novel Method for the Combined Photocatalytic Activity Determination and Bandgap Estimation

The ability of a photocatalyst to degrade a target pollutant is a commonly used method to assess its effectiveness for environmental applications, while ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy and spectroscopic ellipsometry are conventional techniques for the estimation of a semiconductor band gap. In this work, an array of six light-emitting diodes (LEDs), characterized by different emission peaks between 470–370 nm and absorbed power of 3 W, was implemented into an existing standard testing apparatus for the testing of nitrogen oxides degradation in air. The abatement indexes, obtained under different LEDs irradiation, were firstly compared to the ones determined according the standard and, secondly, correlated with the measured LED emission spectrum, in order to estimate the photocatalyst band gap. Results suggest that this expeditious technique can be easily implemented into existing testing apparatus for the estimation of the band gap and for the appraisal of photocatalytic materials under realistic conditions.

Fate and significance of phthalates and bisphenol A in liquid by-products generated during municipal solid waste mechanical-biological pre-treatment and disposal

Samples of liquid by-products generated by municipal solid waste plants (MSWPs) were tested for the presence of phthalates (PAEs) and bisphenol A (BPA). The results indicated that the wastewater generated during mechanical (sorting unit - SU) and biological (composting unit - CU) pre-treatment (MBT) of residual (mixed) solid waste is a significant source of these compounds. The concentrations of PAEs (up to 32222μg/L) and BPA (up to 1795μg/L) in the SU and CU wastewaters were generally higher than those in landfill leachates tested in this and other studies. To date, MBT wastewaters have been poorly studied and are usually overlooked. However, in this study, despite their relatively small quantities, they constituted an important load of ammonia (up to 1610mg/L) and organic matter (COD up to 52980mg/L). Thus, to apply an effective treatment, it is critical to monitor the current quality and quantity of all liquid by-products generated at MSWPs and to prioritize the (micro)pollutants of concern.

Appraisal of a hybrid air cleaning process

Nowadays, there is an amplified interest in maintaining suitable indoor air quality (IAQ). Besides a wide range of available interventions, air cleaners are considered a valuable tool, since based on inexpensive and easily implementing technologies to improve IAQ. The purpose of this work is to combine the TiO₂-photocatalysis with the electrostatic and adsorption processes, in order to improve efficiency and reliability. A TiO₂-photocatalytic oxidation combined with an electrostatic filter has been studied. Nitrogen oxides reduction and degradation of many VOC over different catalyst support were monitored jointly with CO and CO₂ production. The coupling of photocatalysis with an external electric field enhances efficiency of the process. The choice of materials with diversified adsorptive characteristics plays an important role in the durability of the process over time.

A modern solid waste management strategy--the generation of new by-products

To benefit the environment and society, EU legislation has introduced a 'zero waste' strategy, in which waste material should be converted to resources. Such legislation is supported by the solid waste hierarchy concept, which is a set of priorities in waste management. Under this concept, municipal solid waste plants (MSWPs) should be equipped with sorting and recycling facilities, composting/incineration units and landfill prisms for residual bulk disposal. However, each of the aforementioned facilities generates by-products that must be treated. This project focuses on the leachates from landfill prisms, including modern prism (MP) that meet EU requirements and previous prism (PP) that provide for the storage of permitted biodegradable waste as well as technological wastewaters from sorting unit (SU) and composting unit (CU), which are usually overlooked. The physico-chemical parameters of the liquid by-products collected over 38 months were supported by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) amplifications of functional genes transcripts and a metagenomic approach that describes the archaeal and bacterial community in the MP. The obtained data show that SU and especially CU generate wastewater that is rich in nutrients, organic matter and heavy metals. Through their on-site pre-treatment and recirculation via landfill prisms, the landfill waste decomposition process may be accelerated because of the introduction of organic matter and greenhouse gas emissions may be increased. These results have been confirmed by the progressive abundance of both archaeal community and the methyl coenzyme M reductase (mcrA) gene. The resulting multivariate data set, supported by a principal component analysis, provides useful information for the design, operation and risk assessment of modern MSWPs.

Bayesian analyses of admixture in wild and domestic cats (Felis silvestris) using linked microsatellite loci

Methods recently developed to infer population structure and admixture mostly use individual genotypes described by unlinked neutral markers. However, Hardy-Weinberg and linkage disequilibria among independent markers decline rapidly with admixture time, and the admixture signals could be lost in a few generations. In this study, we aimed to describe genetic admixture in 182 European wild and domestic cats (Felis silvestris), which hybridize sporadically in Italy and extensively in Hungary. Cats were genotyped at 27 microsatellites, including 21 linked loci mapping on five distinct feline linkage groups. Genotypes were analysed with structure 2.1, a Bayesian procedure designed to model admixture linkage disequilibrium, which promises to assess efficiently older admixture events using tightly linked markers. Results showed that domestic and wild cats sampled in Italy were split into two distinct clusters with average proportions of membership Q > 0.90, congruent with prior morphological identifications. In contrast, free-living cats sampled in Hungary were assigned partly to the domestic and the wild cat clusters, with Q < 0.50. Admixture analyses of individual genotypes identified, respectively, 5/61 (8%), and 16-20/65 (25-31%) hybrids among the Italian wildcats and Hungarian free-living cats. Similar results were obtained in the past using unlinked loci, although the new linked markers identified additional admixed wildcats in Italy. Linkage analyses confirm that hybridization is limited in Italian, but widespread in Hungarian wildcats, a population that is threatened by cross-breeding with free-ranging domestic cats. The total panel of 27 loci performed better than the linked loci alone in the identification of domestic and known hybrid cats, suggesting that a large number of linked plus unlinked markers can improve the results of admixture analyses. Inferred recombination events led to identify the population of origin of chromosomal segments, suggesting that admixture mapping experiments can be designed also in wild populations.

Genetic distinction of wildcat (Felis silvestris) populations in Europe, and hybridization with domestic cats in Hungary

The genetic integrity and evolutionary persistence of declining wildcat populations are threatened by crossbreeding with widespread free-living domestic cats. Here we use allelic variation at 12 microsatellite loci to describe genetic variation in 336 cats sampled from nine European countries. Cats were identified as European wildcats (Felis silvestris silvestris), Sardinian wildcats (F. s. libyca) and domestic cats (F. s. catus), according to phenotypic traits, geographical locations and independently of any genetic information. Genetic variability was significantly partitioned among taxonomic groups (FST = 0.11; RST = 0.41; P < 0.001) and sampling locations (FST = 0.07; RST = 0.06; P < 0.001), suggesting that wild and domestic cats are subdivided into distinct gene pools in Europe. Multivariate and Bayesian clustering of individual genotypes also showed evidence of distinct cat groups, congruent with current taxonomy, and suggesting geographical population structuring. Admixture analyses identified cryptic hybrids among wildcats in Portugal, Italy and Bulgaria, and evidenced instances of extensive hybridization between wild and domestic cats sampled in Hungary. Cats in Hungary include a composite assemblage of variable phenotypes and genotypes, which, as previously documented in Scotland, might originate from long lasting hybridization and introgression. A number of historical, demographic and ecological conditions can lead to extensive crossbreeding between wild and domestic cats, thus threatening the genetic integrity of wildcat populations in Europe.

Genetic identification of wild and domestic cats (Felis silvestris) and their hybrids using Bayesian clustering methods

Crossbreeding with free-ranging domestic cats is supposed to threaten the genetic integrity of wildcat populations in Europe, although the diagnostic markers to identify "pure" or "admixed" wildcats have never been clearly defined. Here we use mitochondrial (mt) DNA sequences and allelic variation at 12 microsatellite loci to genotype 128 wild and domestic cats sampled in Italy which were preclassified into three separate groups: European wildcats (Felis silvestris silvestris), Sardinian wildcats (Felis silvestris libyca), and domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus), according to their coat color patterns, collection localities, and other phenotypical traits, independently of any genetic information. For comparison, we included some captive-reared hybrids of European wild and domestic cats. Genetic variability was significantly partitioned among the three groups (mtDNA estimate of F(ST) = 0.36; microsatellite estimate of R(ST) = 0.30; P < 0.001), suggesting that morphological diversity reflects the existence of distinct gene pools. Multivariate ordination of individual genotypes and clustering of interindividual genetic distances also showed evidence of distinct cat groups, partially congruent with the morphological classification. Cluster analysis, however, did not enable hybrid cats to be identified from genetic information alone, nor were all individuals assigned to their populations. In contrast, a Bayesian admixture analysis simultaneously assigned the European wildcats, the Sardinian wildcats, and the domestic cats to different clusters, independent of any prior information, and pointed out the admixed gene composition of the hybrids, which were assigned to more than one cluster. Only one putative Sardinian wildcat was assigned to the domestic cat cluster, and one presumed European wildcat showed mixed (hybrid) ancestry in the domestic cat gene pool. Mitochondrial DNA sequences indicated that three additional presumed European wildcats might have hybrid ancestry. These four cats were sampled from the same area in the northernmost edge of the European wildcat distribution in the Italian Apennines. Admixture analyses suggest that wild and domestic cats in Italy are distinct, reproductively isolated gene pools and that introgression of domestic alleles into the wild-living population is very limited and geographically localized.

Species distinction and evolutionary relationships of the Italian hare (Lepus corsicanus) as described by mitochondrial DNA sequencing

The taxonomic status of the Italian hare Lepus corsicanus has been uncertain since its first description by W. E. de Winton in 1898 (de Winton WE. Annual Magazine of Natural History, London, 1898, 1, 149-158). The distribution range of this species has shrunk severely over the last few decades owing to overhunting and restocking with nonindigenous brown hares (L. europaeus) in central and southern Italy and Sicily. Recently, scanty populations of Italian hares were rediscovered, and samples for morphological and molecular analyses were collected. Nucleotide sequences of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region and cytochrome b indicate that L. corsicanus is a phylogenetically distinct species, which can be identified by concordant morphological and mtDNA traits. It seems to be reproductively isolated and apparently does not hybridize with sympatric brown hares. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that Italian and brown hares are not closely related sister taxa, but belong to distinct evolutionary lineages that dispersed in western Europe in different periods during the early Pleistocene. The Italian hare probably differentiated in isolated refuges in southern Italy during the last glaciation. Comparative analyses of mismatch distributions suggest that hares have had different demographic histories during the Pleistocene, which resulted in phylogeographical structuring in Italian hares, but not in brown and mountain (L. timidus) hares. The Italian hare is an endangered endemism and needs urgent conservation efforts.

Drosophila melanogaster is polymorphic for a specific repeated (CATA) sequence in the regulatory region of hsp23

To identify sequence variation associated with a selection response for heat tolerance in Drosophila melanogaster, we sequenced 1400bp of the heat shock protein 23 gene (hsp23) promoter region in four heat-selected and two control lines. The region was found to be variable for a specific (CATA) repeated sequence, and the sequence CTT seems to be a hot spot for mutation. The repeated tetranucleotide sequence was located in several short repeats scattered throughout the entire region. Similar variable repeats are also located downstream the of hsp23 gene in the intergenic region between hsp23 and hsp27. We detected nine different hsp23 alleles. Their frequencies in the selection and control lines seemed to be mainly determined by genetic drift. The function of the CATA repeats is not yet known, though these regions have homology to SAR elements located in the intergenic region between two hsp70 genes, suggesting a similar function.

New phylogenetic perspectives on the Cervidae (Artiodactyla) are provided by the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene

The entire mitochondrial cytochrome b (cyt b) gene was compared for 11 species of the artiodactyl family Cervidae, representing all living subfamilies, i.e., the antlered Cervinae (Cervus elaphus, C. nippon, Dama dama), Muntiacinae (Muntiacus reevesi), and Odocoileinae (Odocoileus hemionus, Mazama sp., Capreolus capreolus, C. pygargus, Rangifer tarandus, Alces alces); and the antlerless Hydropotinae (Hydropotes inermis). Phylogenetic analyses using Tragulidae, Antilocapridae, Giraffidae and Bovidae as outgroups provide evidence for three multifurcating principal clades within the monophyletic family Cervidae. First, Cervinae and Muntiacus are joined in a moderately-to-strongly supported clade of Eurasian species. Second, Old World Odocoileinae (Capreolus and Hydropotes) associate with the Holarctic Alces. Third, New World Odocoileinae (Mazama and Odocoileus) cluster with the Holarctic Rangifer. The combination of mitochondrial cyt b and nuclear k-casein sequences increases the robustness of these three clades. The Odocoileini + Rangiferini clade is unambiguously supported by a unique derived cranial feature, the expansion of the vomer which divides the choana. Contrasting with current taxonomy, Hydropotes is not the sister group of all the antlered deers, but it is nested within the Odocoileinae. Therefore, Hydropotes lost the antlers secondarily. Thus, the mitochondrial cyt b phylogeny splits Cervidae according to plesiometacarpal (Cervinae + Muntiacinae) versus telemetacarpal (Odocoileinae + Hydropotinae) conditions, and suggests paraphyly of antlered deer.

Mitochondrial DNA polymorphism in populations of Siberian and European roe deer (Capreolus pygargus and C. capreolus)

We have amplified and sequenced 679 nucleotides of the mitochondrial DNA control-region in 45 Siberian (Capreolus pygargus) and European (C. capreolus) roe deer from two localities in Russia and seven in Italy. Average interspecific sequence divergence was 4.9%. Six different haplotypes were found in Siberian roe deer, and 14 haplotypes in Alpine European roe deer. A population of the endemic Italian subspecies C. c. italicus was monomorphic bearing a single haplotype with one unique nucleotide deletion and a fixed transversion. Phylogenetic relationships among haplotypes indicated that the two species were separated with 100% bootstrap support, and there were two distinct population clusters within each species. These clusters correspond to different geographical locations of the samples: Siberian roe deer were subdivided into west Siberia (Kurgan region) and east Siberia (Amur region), and European roe deer were subdivided into an eastern and a western Alpine group. Average sequence divergence among conspecific populations was 1.2%. Calibrations of evolutionary rates of the different domains of the control-region suggest that Siberian and European roe deer speciated about 2-3 million years ago, and haplotype diversity within species was generated during the last 150,000-370,000 years. Geographical structuring of sequence variability in roe deer allows us to identify historical and recent intraspecific population differences, including the effects of human disturbance. The genetic peculiarities of the endemic Italian subspecies C. c. italicus call for careful conservation of its surviving populations.