Bacterial diversity and function in the Baltic Sea with an emphasis on cyanobacteria

In this article we summarize the current knowledge of Baltic Sea cyanobacteria, focusing on diversity, toxicity, and nitrogen fixation in the filamentous heterocystous taxa. We also review the recent results of our microbial diversity studies in planktonic and benthic habitats in the Baltic Sea. Based on molecular analyses, we have improved the understanding of cyanobacterial population structure by assessing genetic diversity within species that are morphologically inseparable. Moreover, we have studied microbial functions such as toxin production and nitrogen fixation in situ under different environmental conditions. Phosphorus limitation of bloom-forming, nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria was clearly verified, emphasizing the importance of continuous efforts to reduce this element in the Baltic Sea. We have designed a rapid and reliable detection method for the toxic cyanobacterium Nodularia spumigena, which can be used to study bloom formation of this important toxin producer.     

Development and Characterization of the Reinforced Soy Protein Isolate-Based Nanocomposite Film with CuO and TiO2 Nanoparticles

Journal of Polymers and the Environment - The present study aimed to develop and characterize the soy protein isolate (SPI) nanocomposite film incorporated with CuO and TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) for...     

Characterization of Physicochemical and Antibacterial Properties of Gelatin and Inulin Nanobiocomposite Films Containing Crystalline Nanocellulose and Malva sylvestris Extract

Journal of Polymers and the Environment - This study aimed to develop and characterize gelatin and inulin nanobiocomposite films with crystalline nanocellulose (CNC) and Malva sylvestris extract...     

Vermicompost and biochar can alleviate cadmium stress through minimizing its uptake and optimizing biochemical properties in Berberis integerrima bunge

Environmental Science and Pollution Research - Organic substrates are gaining popularity as a means of mitigating the negative effects of cadmium (Cd) stress on plant growth. The aim of the present...     

Effects of oil contamination on plant growth and development: a review

Environmental Science and Pollution Research - Oil spills generate several environmental impacts and have become more common with the increase in petroleum extraction, refining, transportation, and...