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Data are presented on the contents of major ions (Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, N , Cl–, S , НС , and N ) along with dissolved trace elements (Sr, Ba, Fe, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, Al, Ti, Rb, U, V, Cr, As, Se, Mo, and Ag) in the waters of 12 springs in Balashikhа urban district of Moscow Region. In view of the testing data for the springs, the composition of groundwaters in different water-bearing layers was characterized for the Ucha–Balashikha hydrogeologic block, which is associated with the western part of the Meshchera hydrogeologic region of the Moscow artesian basin. The waters were found to be of low-acid to near-neutral (pH 5.3–6.9), of 130–670 mg/L mineralization and are characterized by wide variety of their major component compositions, as well as by mainly increased concentrations of nitrate and ammonium ions. It was shown that the average contents of trace elements was characteristic in general for groundwaters in the leaching zone of the temperate climate. TLVs were not exceeded, excluding Fe and Mn, in waters of several springs. Based on thermodynamic calculations using Visual-MINTEQ software, it was found that the predominant dissolved forms in the waters of the surveyed springs were free ions for Ba, Sr, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cd, Ni, and Co, and carbonate or organic complexes for Cu and Pb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Taanzoult plain of Aguelmam Sidi Ali wetland contains several permanent springs of water. They are intended for watering livestock, supplying drinking water and hydrotherapy. Nevertheless, the water consumption from sources in the raw state, without any pre-treatment or hygienic measures, certainly threatens the health of humans and particularly that of traditional medicine patients. From this perspective, the present work is based on a monthly monitoring of eight bacterial germs in the waters of four sources (Aghbalou Aberchane, Aghbalou Dkhiss, Aghbalou Akjdate and forestry post) during a hydrobiological cycle of 12 months from January to December 2017. The results of analyses have shown that bacterial contamination is significant at the water sources, used mainly for watering livestock, compared to those dedicated to drinking and hydrotherapy. The mean content of total coliforms and fecal coliforms at all the stations are higher than the Moroccan standards for surface water intended for the drinking water production. Except for the wet period for Aghbalou Aberchane and Aghbalou Dkhiss waters, the value of the bacterial parameters studied are higher than the Moroccan standards. In general, the anarchic frequentation of the area negatively influences the water quality and compromises its potability. Consequently, it directly threatens the health of users and hydrotherapy patients, especially during the dry season. These findings could call on the health authorities and the competent authorities responsible for controlling the quality of surface water to make users aware of the health risks and provide for appropriate arrangements to improve the quality of the widely sought-after natural waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Springs are an essential drinking water resource. Therefore, it is necessary to control spring water quality under the increasing anthropogenic pressure on the environment. This study was carried out to evaluate the content of major ions and trace elements in the waters of 28 springs in the Pushkinsky district of the Moscow region. The macro- and micro-component composition of groundwater of various aquifers was characterized according to the sampling data of springs. It is shown that the mean contents of trace elements in the waters of springs were at the level of concentrations characteristic of groundwater in the leaching zone of a temperate climate. Based on the thermodynamic calculation using the Visual-MINTEQ software, it was found that the predominant dissolved forms of Ba, Sr, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cd, Ni, and Co were free ions in the waters of the surveyed springs, while Cu and Pb were mainly presented in the form of carbonate and organic complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measurement by a unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) equipped with thermal infrared sensors has great potential as a new technique for understanding the spatial heterogeneity of river water temperature; however, the measurement technique has not been established yet. Therefore, this study measured surface and water temperatures using two uncooled thermal infrared sensors, which are commercially available, for 7 months, to obtain knowledge to establish a method for predicting the river water temperature using uncooled thermal infrared sensors mounted on UAVs. The survey covered a 500 m section upstream from the confluence of the Inukai River in the Katsura River of the Yodo River system, in Japan. DJI Zenmuse XT2 and MicaSense Altum were mounted on a DJI Matrice 300 at the same time and took images seven times at intervals of approximately 1 month between June 2021 and January 2022. The water temperature and depth were measured at several locations within the study area within 1.5 hr after the UAV acquisition. Then, the relationship between the measured water temperature and the surface temperature extracted from the thermal infrared orthorectified mosaic image was analyzed. Altum was more suitable than XT2 for obtaining thermal infrared orthorectified mosaic images with less inconsistencies among courses in the surface temperature range, and the difference in water temperature was also smaller, making it suitable for understanding the river water temperature. To predict water temperature from surface temperature, actual measured data of water temperature is necessary, but I demonstrated that it is possible to measure the river water temperature in a spatially continuous manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yaremche tourist destination is a place of the accumulation of a large number of explored underground springs with drinking water, a significant number of tourist flows, a widespread decentralized water supply system which together with the specifics of the mountain region and seasonality form an object relevant for regular monitoring. Underground springs and wells supply water to residential facilities in the region, and therefore monitoring studies of the physical and chemical composition of drinking water from underground springs and wells on the territory of Yaremche tourist destination is necessary. Covering the full range of geographical heights of the park, we have studied the drinking water quality of natural springs and wells in the private tourist estates for nitrates, nitrites, phosphates, and ammonium, determined the total mineralization, pH value, analyzed the results and based on them the impact of seasonal changes on the groundwater feed. The observation program included two hydrological seasons: the spring high water period and the autumn dry period of 2021. The results of studies indicate an increase in nitrate content and a decrease in phosphate and ammonium content in the dry period. Deviations from the pH norm in several studied samples and low total mineralization of water from natural springs were observed, which may have a negative impact on human health during long-term consumption. Possible impact factors of decentralized drainage and anthropogenic load of tourist establishments on the potential increase in groundwater pollution are provided, it is established that seasonal fluctuations occur primarily due to changes in the main feed sources and denitrification processes

Natural mineral waters (NMWs) emerge from the earth as springs and their beneficial therapeutic effect has been empirically recognized in different countries. Portugal has diverse NMW resources that are sought for the relief of different afflictions including dermatological complications. However, there is a lack of scientific validation supporting this empiric knowledge. In this study, we aimed to screen the in vitro bioactivity of Portuguese NMWs with different chemical profiles, namely sulfurous/bicarbonate/sodic (SBS), bicarbonate/magnesium, sulfated/calcic, sulfurous/chlorinated/sodic, sulfurous/bicarbonate/fluoridated/sodic, and chlorinated/sodic, focusing on aging-related skin alterations. Mouse skin fibroblasts and macrophages were exposed to culture medium prepared in different NMWs. Cellular viability was evaluated by MTT assay and etoposide-induced senescence was analyzed through the beta-galactosidase staining kit. Wound healing was investigated by the scratch assay, and phototoxicity/photoprotection after UVA irradiation was evaluated using a neutral red solution. ROS production was quantified using the 2′7′-dichlorofluorescin diacetate dye, and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was analyzed by a commercial kit after lipopolysaccharide exposure. NMWs within the SBS profile demonstrated anti-senescence activity in skin fibroblasts, along with a variable effect on cellular viability. Among the tested NMWs, two decreased cellular senescence and preserved cell viability and were therefore selected for subsequent studies, together with a SBS NMW with therapeutic indications for dermatologic diseases. Overall, the selected NMW promoted wound healing in skin fibroblasts and activated SOD in macrophages, thus suggesting an anti-oxidant effect. None of the NMWs prevented phototoxicity after UV irradiation. Our results shed a light on the anti-aging potential of Portuguese NMW, supporting their putative application in cosmetic or medical products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to analyze trace elements including uranium concentration in spring waters in Lesko. In addition, it was necessary to show that the increased concentration of uranium in these spring waters gives the basis for the, to assumption that we could be dealing with”specific healing radon water". Material and methods: On the northern edge of the city there are springs of healing waters. The springs contain low-mineralized sulphide waters with a low redox potential (ORP) and a slight alkaline reaction. The efficiency of these sources is within 2-3 liters per minute. The paper presents the results of the analysis of elements and trace elements in the above mentioned spring waters by the following methods: AAS, IC, ICP-MS, and ICP-OES. The statistical method of Student’s t-test was used to process the results. Results and conclusions: The statistical research showed that the concentration of uranium in the waters of Lesko is higher than the corresponding concentration in the sulphide water from Rymanów Zdrój. Based on literature in the field of geology, it has been proved that in the vicinity of Bezmiechowa - Monasterzec - Lesko, there are concentrations of uranium in rocks of low value, but sufficient for spring water to contain trace amounts of uranium in ionized form. The increased uranium concentration suggests the presence of radon in the tested waters. If it is proved that radon is present in an appropriate concentration in spring waters, it will allow the use of the above mentioned waters as radon ones for balneological purposes.

Knowledge of spring waters' chemical composition is paramount for both their use and their conservation. Vast surveys at the basin scale are required to define the nature and the location of the springs and to identify the hydrochemical facies of their aquifers. The present study aims to evaluate the hydrochemical facies and the vulnerability to nitrates of 59 springs falling in the Sila Massif in Calabria (southern Italy) and to identify their vulnerability through the analysis of physicochemical parameters and the use of the Langelier–Ludwig diagram. A spatial analysis was performed by the spline method. The results identified a mean value of 4.39 mg NO3−/L and a maximum value of 24 mg NO3−/L for nitrate pollution in the study area. Statistical analysis results showed that the increase in electrical conductivity follows the increase in alkalinity values, a correlation especially evident in the bicarbonate Ca-Mg waters and linked to the possibility of higher nitrate concentrations in springs. These analyses also showed that nitrate vulnerability is dependent on the geological setting of springs. Indeed, the Sila igneous–metamorphic batholith, often strongly affected by weathering processes, contributes to not buffering the nitrate impacts on aquifers. Conversely, anthropogenic activities, particularly fertilization practices, are key factors in groundwater vulnerability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work is to present the hydrochemical mechanisms describing the system of the Euphrates River before and after mixing with groundwater from the springs of Hijlan (western Iraq). Continuously, the data generated from these springs water have been adapted to provide an updated assessment for future water therapeutic purposes. Physicochemical characteristics of water in the mixing plume of Hijlan Creek and Euphrates indicate the multi Hydrochemical plumes as revealed by the spatial variation of important parameters related to the ecological parameters including K+, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, HCO3−, SO42−, Cl−, NO3−, PO43−, Pb, Zn, Cd, Fe, Mn, Temp, DO, BOD5, H2S, Turbidity, EC, pH, and TDS. The re-aeration (k2) and de-oxygenation rate (k1) coefficients, as well as the self-purification factor (f) of the mixing plume, are 0.51, 2.03 and 0.25 s−1, respectively. The Cl− concentration in the confluence zone changes, due to the chloride content mixing rates of 7.1 and 92.9% for Euphrates and Hijlan creek water, respectively, with water discharge of 316,224 m3/day and chloride load discharge of 420 tons/day. The assessment of the water quality indicates unsuitability for aquaculture purposes. However, the water can be used for therapeutic purposes and to cure multiple diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of spring waters’ chemical composition is paramount for both their use and their conservation. Vast surveys at the basin scale are required to define the nature and the location of the springs and to identify the hydrochemical facies of their aquifers. The present study aims to evaluate the hydrochemical facies and the vulnerability to nitrates of 59 springs falling in the Sila Massif in Calabria (southern Italy) and to identify their vulnerability through the analysis of physicochemical parameters and the use of the Langelier–Ludwig diagram. A spatial analysis was performed by the spline method. The results identified a mean value of 4.39 mg NO3−/L and a maximum value of 24 mg NO3−/L for nitrate pollution in the study area. Statistical analysis results showed that the increase in electrical conductivity follows the increase in alkalinity values, a correlation especially evident in the bicarbonate Ca-Mg waters and linked to the possibility of higher nitrate concentrations in springs. These analyses also showed that nitrate vulnerability is dependent on the geological setting of springs. Indeed, the Sila igneous–metamorphic batholith, often strongly affected by weathering processes, contributes to not buffering the nitrate impacts on aquifers. Conversely, anthropogenic activities, particularly fertilization practices, are key factors in groundwater vulnerability.

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Challenges of water scarcity (quantity and quality) in a basement terrain have prompted the study on the rate of discharge and water quality of springs in the Oke-Igbo area in south-western Nigeria. Discharges from all the spring sites were found to range between 1.50 and 30.42 l/s and only suitable for small water supplies. All the dissolved ions were found to be within the WHO standard tolerable limit except for Pb and Fe which were present in spring discharges at levels of 0.18 to 0.62 mg/l and 0.07 to 2.4 mg/l, respectively. An assessment of water quality using a Piper plot, Gibbs plots, ionic ratios and Chloro-Alkaline Indices classified the spring water as Ca–HCO3 water-type facies, suggesting that the principal controls on the chemical composition of the water are water–rock reactions in the basement aquifers. Health Index (HI) and Probability Cancer Risk (PCR) result for adults and children presented that all the springs portend traceable chronic risk to consumers due to elevated lead concentrations. Secondary treatment is required and highly suggested to reduce the concentrations of lead and iron before consumption of the spring waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data on the levels of major ions (Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, ) and dissolved trace elements (Rb, Cs, Be, Sr, Ba, B, Si, Pmin, V, Cr, Ge, As, Mo, W, Sb, Te, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Ag, Sn, Pb, Al, Ga, Ti, Zr, and U) in the waters of 30 springs in Moscow during the winter low water period are presented. The geometric mean values and ranges of concentration of the studied components, as well as correlations between them were established. The presence of hydrochemical anomalies of dissolved iron and manganese in the northeast of Moscow with an excess of the maximum permissible concentration (MPC) for these elements was revealed, whereas in the rest of the city their concentrations corresponds to the natural background levels almost everywhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water and mineral components dissolved in it play an important role in nutrition. Fluoride in drinking water, besides arsenic and nitrate, is reported as chemical causing widespread health effects in humans as a consequence of exposure when present in excessive quantities. Due to significant impact of fluoride on human health and differentiation concentration in water depending on many chemical and geological factors, we decided to establish the fluoride content in Polish bottled waters. In this study, forty commercially available mineral and spring bottled waters, sold under various brand names in Poland have been analysed. The used ion chromatographic method was validated in the range 0.04–2.0 mg L−1 and verified with certified reference material. The obtained results were compared with contents declared by producer, some world standards and results reported by other investigators. Validation of the method showed a good within run repeatability, stability and accuracy. The limit of detection (LOD) in our research was found to be 0.016 mg L−1, while the limit of quantification amounts to 0.049 mg L−1. Content of fluoride in 40 studied bottled waters was higher in mineral (24 samples, 0.302 ± 0.291 mg L−1) than in spring waters (16 samples, 0.159 ± 0.072 mg L−1), but only in one tested mineral water (No 39, Java, with pH 9.16) slightly exceeded the permission level for infant consumption (1.5 mg L−1) and amounted to 1.566 ± 0.0188 mg L−1. No bottled water exceeded the permitted norm. The measured fluoride concentration was in line with these declared on product label, it means difference in less than ±20%, only in 47% of tested waters. The concentration of fluoride was negatively correlated with pH values of waters. In comparison to other countries, the Polish bottled waters characterized low content of fluoride (mean 0.240 ± 0.237 mg F− L−1). The measured value of fluoride contents [mg L−1] in mineral and spring Polish bottled waters with regard to possible health effects (adapted from (Abouleish, 2016)). Unlabelled Image • Fluoride content in forty mineral and spring waters originated from Poland • IC method was validated in range 0.04–2.00 mg L−1 and verified with CRM • Comparison between measured and declared by manufacturer contents • Survey of permission levels in other countries and organization • Review of literature date about fluoride content in worldwide waters [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water is a significant source of macro -- and microelements, necessary for the proper functioning of a human body. The purpose of this article was to analyze the quality of the selected bottled waters available on the Polish market in terms of the physico-chemical parameters (pH, conductivity, chloride ions, bromide ions), macroelements (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium) and trace elements (lead, nickel, antimony, arsenic). 17 brands of the bottled waters available on the Polish market were investigated within the study presented in the article (8 natural mineral waters, 6 spring waters and 3 therapeutic waters). The bottled waters, which were analyzed in the article, characterized with a large diversity of chemical composition. In two samples of therapeutic waters the permissible concentration of nickel was exceeded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the results of the coupled hydrogeochemical modeling of the geochemical compositions of spring and borehole waters from the Ringelbach catchment, which is located in the Vosges Mountains (France). This site has been equipped with 150-m-deep boreholes, facilitating the sampling of both rock and groundwater in the granitic bedrock. The data point to very contrasting chemical compositions between spring and borehole waters, which are discussed and explained in this study by the application of the coupled hydrogeochemical code KIRMAT. Using hydrological and geochemical data, simulations were performed through two different water pathways, which crossed different types of rocks within the Ringelbach massif: a subsurface and fast (>2.5 m H2O .yr −1 ) water flow, which is more or less parallel to the slope, for waters supplying the springs, and a rather vertical and slower flow (0.5–0.1 m H2O .yr −1 ) for the borehole waters. The KIRMAT simulations make it possible to account for not only the geochemical differences between the spring and borehole waters but also the geochemical variations observed in waters in both contexts. For borehole waters, the model confirms the importance of the dissolution of minor mineralogical phases that are present in the granite (here, carbonates/dolomites) on the chemical budget of waters. It also shows that the chemical differences between the waters collected in the two studied boreholes result from differences in the water flow in the granitic bedrock, i.e., the difference between water flow in a regular porous medium and water flow in a porous medium crossed by a fracture. This result likely highlights the role of geological inheritance on the hydrodynamical rock properties and the chemical compositions of waters circulating within the granitic bedrock. For spring waters, this model enabled us to constrain the nature of the rock in the pathway, which is neither saprolite nor fresh granite but is instead weathered granite with a weathering age of several tens of thousands of years. Spatial and seasonal variations in the chemical compositions of spring water can be explained as the result of the same circulation pattern for which the water-rock interaction time is determined by the length of the pathway and the water velocity. Especially in cases in which this interaction time is long enough, the precipitation of clay phases is enabled, which plays a major role in determining the chemical composition of the water. Despite the only one-dimensional approach and the uncertainties linked to the geochemical complexity and the associated kinetic data, the results obtained in this study demonstrate the effectiveness of using coupled hydrogeochemical modeling to better understand and quantify the weathering processes and the coupling that exists between water circulation dynamics and water-rock interactions at the catchment scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a study of the radioactive content of some spring and bottled mineral waters originating frommetamorphic rock areas was carried out.Ahigh content of radium isotopes (226Ra, 228Ra), was found by radiometric analysis in the spring waters: Studenica (226Ra: 289 mBq/L), ^ibutkovica (226Ra: 92, 4 mBq/L, 228Ra: 610 mBq/L), and Crni Guber (226Ra: 120 mBq/L, 228Ra: 1170 mBq/L). On the other hand, the radiochemical results showed a higher concentration of 238U in the bottled mineral water samples (dissolved uranium concentrations were from 0.21 mBq/L, for "Kopaonik" to 71.5mBq/L fo "Skadarska") than in the spring water samples (dissolved uranium concentrations were very low » 10 mBq/L). The concentrations of all the present naturally occuring radionuclides: 238U, 234U, 232Th, 230Th, 228Th, 228Ra and 226Ra were determined by alpha/gamma spectrometric analysis. The activity ratios 234U/238U, 226Ra/230Th and 228Th/232Th, 228Ra/228Th were calculated and are discussed as an indication of the radioactive disequilibrium in bothe the 238U and 232Th radioactive series. The high contents of radium isotopes with respect to the equilibrium values expected from the respective parents 232Th/(232Th series) and 230Th (238U series) found in the spring water samples is the main evidence for the existence of significant radioactive disequilibrium in both the radioactive series.

This paper describes a hydrochemical study focusing spas groundwaters occurring at São Paulo and Minas Gerais states, Brazil, that are extensively used for drinking in public places, bottling and bathing purposes, among other. The water samples (75) for this study were taken from springs and pumped tubular wells drilled at different aquifer systems that are inserted in Paraná and Southeastern Shield hydrogeological provinces. The data acquisition for temperature, electrical conductivity (EC), pH, redox potential (Eh), dissolved gases (O 2 , CO 2 and H 2 S) and alkalinity was in situ performed for avoiding losses and modification due to transportation. The total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration was evaluated by gravimetry, the major cations and anions, iron and silica by colorimetry/atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS), and fluoride by potentiometry. The acquired database allowed establish the principal trends among the parameters analyzed after assuring its consistence from expected relationships found in hydrogeochemical surveys. The groundwaters are reducing (from pH and Eh data), there is a direct TDS-EC relationship, implying on a significant correlation between their ionic strength (IS) and EC. The major ions justifying such trends were sodium, (bi)carbonate, chloride, sulfate and phosphate that also correlated positively with the IS. The spas groundwaters were classified according to the guidelines of the Brazilian Code of Mineral Waters (BCMW) and EU directive for mineral waters. The major hydrochemical facies were also determined, as well the main sources influencing the groundwater composition and possible subsurface temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The variations in strontium (Sr) isotope ratios in river waters at a regional scale are usually discussed in terms of lithological diversity constituting the watershed bedrock. To discuss the origin of the spatiotemporal variations in Sr concentrations and isotopic compositions of spring waters at the headwater watershed scale, we analyzed the 87Sr/86Sr and 143Nd/144Nd isotopic ratios of the main constitutive minerals of the granitic bedrock of the Strengbach Critical Zone Observatory (CZO) and developed coupled hydrogeochemical modeling integrating the Sr concentration and isotopic composition. The simulation results show that the long-term (1990–2010) decrease in Sr concentrations in the CS springs of the Strengbach catchment can be explained by the response of mineral weathering along the water pathway to the pH increase that affected the incoming solutions to the weathering system during the same period. This pH increase reduces the water path proportion marked by a high flux of apatite and biotite dissolution. Thus, it reduces the Sr concentration of the outgoing spring waters. The different responses of the various CS springs to the incoming solutions' pH increase can be explained by the more or less long residence time of the water in the bedrock for the different springs. The analytical data also confirm that the 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios of the CS springs varied little or not at all on average from 1990 to 2010. In contrast, they varied significantly during a hydrological cycle and from one spring to another. The constancy of the average 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios over several years is explained by a granitic bedrock water path sufficiently long for soil solution pH variations to no longer influence the emergence of the spring. The simulation results also show that the isotopic variations observed in the CS springs during a hydrological cycle can be explained by differences in the transit time of the water in the substratum between high and low waters and the modifications that they entail on the degree of saturation of the water with respect to biotite and apatite. These differences do not need to be explained by differences in the mineralogy of the rocks drained by waters between high and low discharge periods. Similarly, the different average isotope ratios from one spring to another can be explained by the more or less long transit times in the bedrock of the waters feeding these different springs. Again, it is not necessary to explain them by local lithological differences from one spring to another. These different results highlight that at the scale of an upstream basin such as the Strengbach, the Sr isotopic variations observed in the CS springs should not systematically indicate lithological differences in the rock. The development of coupled isotope modeling approaches should help to disentangle the part of this process relating to hydrological processes in the isotopic variability of the spring waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Major element concentrations and U and Sr isotope ratios were determined in waters collected from the main springs located in the small (0.36km2) Ringelbach catchment (Vosges, France), which has a basement consisting of Hercynian granite capped in its upper part by a residual cover of Triassic sandstones. The spring waters were sampled from 2001 to 2004 during highly contrasting hydrological conditions and monthly over two hydrological years October 2004–September 2006. Deep-water samples were also collected from three boreholes (two drilled down to a 150m depth and one down to a depth of 70m) and analyzed. The data indicate systematic geochemical differences between the waters from sandstone and granite and important spatial variations in the chemical and isotopic compositions (Sr and U) between the spring waters on granitic lithology. For the granitic spring waters, the alkalinity, the cationic concentrations and the pH values increase with decreasing spring elevation. The (234U/238U) activity ratios of the granitic spring waters also increase with decreasing spring elevation, from approximately 1 in the upslope springs to 1.3 in the downslope springs. Waters of each spring have significant temporal variations in the elemental concentrations and elemental ratios but much less variations in their Sr isotopic ratios and U activity ratios. These spatial and temporal geochemical variations are unrelated to both the mixing scenarios between weathering and rainwater end-members and between granitic and sandstone weathering fluxes. Moreover, the comparison of the geochemical and isotopic compositions of Sr and U of the granitic spring waters with those of deep waters collected from boreholes demonstrates that the geochemical variations in the granitic spring waters cannot be explained by mixing between the surface water and these deep groundwaters. The spring waters are supplied by subsurface waters flowing through water paths disconnected from those of the borehole waters. Furthermore, the geochemical and Sr isotopic characteristics of the granitic spring waters suggest that the different granitic springs are most likely supplied by waters with relatively independent water pathways that are controlled by the geometry of the fracture network structure in the Ringelbach regolith. The increase in the alkalinity, the major element (Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+) concentrations and the U activity ratios of the granitic spring waters with decreasing spring elevation indicate that the main parameter that must be considered to explain the geochemical characteristics of these waters is the length of the water pathway within the bedrock, which controls the duration of the water–rock interactions. Based on this interpretation, the (234U/238U) activity ratios in the spring waters were modeled using a simple 1D reactive transport model that considers dissolution, precipitation and alpha recoil. By estimating the alpha recoil factor and the length of the water path for each spring, both the dissolution rate of the bedrock and the water residence time within the slope can be estimated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Water qualities of springs in their natural state are supposed to be clean and potable. Although, water quality is not a static condition it depends on the local geology and ecosystem, as well as human activities such as sewage dispersion, industrial pollution, use of water bodies as a heat sink, and overuse. The activities on land use around the water sources can increase the level and number of contaminants if not properly used. This study evaluates the water quality of four spring waters (Asho, Ajie, Iyi-Nsukka and Ikwoka-Obimo) in Nsukka, Enugu state Nigeria to ascertain their suitability for drinking since they are consumed directly without treatment. Water samples were collected from these four springs and analyzed accordingly. The physical, chemical and bacteriological tests were carried out on the water samples with appropriate equipment. After analyzing the samples, it was found that some of the water parameters tested were within WHO/NIS standard and some were outside the range provided by WHO/NIS standard. Among the parameters tested that falls outside the range provided by WHO/NIS standard that has significant health implication are coliform and E. coli. It was found that there is high concentration of coliforms especially at Ajie and Iyi - Nsukka springs with 150MPN and 280MPN per 100ml respectively. Ajie and Iyi-Nsukka springs also have E. coli of 3MPN/100ml each while Asho and Ikwoka-Obimo springs have <3MPN/100ml. The contaminations is as a result of indiscriminate dumping of refuse, defecation around the water sources especially at the uphill side of these spring and the agricultural activities. Base on the findings, the water from these four springs is not safe for drinking without treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Weathering of outcrops of ultramafic rocks (remnants of ancient oceanic crust) is a source of biologically toxic trace elements, particularly first row transition elements. The Cr and Ni concentrations of serpentinite and metabasite outcrops in the northern sector of the Pollino massif (Lucanian Apennines, southern Italy) are hundreds of orders of magnitude higher than those of the upper continental crust. In this region, exposed intermediate to lower crustal rocks are significantly enriched in Ni, Cr, and V relative to the average upper continental crust. We evaluate the levels and distributions of trace elements of environmental concern, including Cr (as total dissolved Cr and Cr(VI)), V, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Pb, and U, in spring waters from the northern sector of the Pollino massif. The major solutes in the spring waters from this region are Mg-HCO3 and Ca-HCO3. The Mg-HCO3 type waters are produced mainly through the interaction of meteoric waters with serpentinites, whereas the Ca-HCO3 type waters are produced through the interaction of meteoric waters with Ca-rich rocks (i.e., carbonate rocks, calc-schists, and metabasites). Thermodynamic evaluation indicates that in the MgO–SiO2–Al2O3–H2O system, waters flowing in serpentinites fall in the kaolinite field, close to the kaolinite–Mg-vermiculite phase boundary. This result arises because kaolinite is a relatively early reaction product, which is consumed to produce Mg-vermiculite and further Mg-saponite. In the CaO–SiO2–Al2O3–H2O system, Ca-HCO3 type waters fall either in the field of gibbsite or kaolinite, depending on dissolved silica. Chromium (VI) contamination associated with local mineralogy and with maximum admissible concentration >5μgL−1 was observed for nine springs (both Mg-HCO3 and Ca-HCO3 type waters). The Cr(VI)-rich Ca-HCO3 springs are not located in serpentinites. However, some of these waters likely acquire their high Cr levels from interacting with serpentinite clasts, as in the case of springs flowing through conglomerates. In addition, Cr(VI) contamination is not limited to waters interacting with serpentinites or serpentinite clasts, because in one case weathering of garnet-rich gneiss is responsible for the release of significant amounts of Cr(VI) in solution. Finally, studies are needed to address the potential health risks associated with the observed high concentrations of Cr(VI) in waters from the Pollino massif area. A mode-of-action analysis is needed to evaluate adverse health risks associated with exposure to Cr(VI) in drinking water, especially as Cr contamination is not limited to springs flowing through serpentinites. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, we present the current situation of both natural mineral waters and spring waters in Algeria. The evolution in legislation regarding the exploitation, production and marketing of bottled natural mineral and spring water are discussed in the first part. A critical analysis of this legislation, through a comparative study with European and international legislations is also exposed in this study. In the second part, an inventory of operating sites of natural mineral water or spring water is given. Then, the physicochemical characterization and classification of waters on the different sites of natural mineral waters are presented. Finally, in order to establish a database for natural mineral waters and spring waters in Algeria, the first data are then given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Within the framework of the Pan-European project about the geochemistry of bottled mineral waters in Europe launched in 2007 by the European Geological Surveys (EGS) Geochemistry Expert Group fourteen brands of bottled natural waters from Croatia of both mineral and spring types were evaluated for getting more coherent spatial information about the natural variation of element concentration in bottled waters found at the European market. Results of chemical analysis show that not a single one out of fourteen analyzed bottled waters from Croatia exceeds the Croatian water standards sanctioning thereby their suitability for human consumption. Also, statistical tests performed for 41 analytes (including pH and EC) clearly show that the water chemistry is in a high degree of conformity with regional geology, depending on structural, stratigraphic and, above all, lithological diversity of aquifers. Thus Dinaric and Pannonian parts of Croatia differ largely with regard to their water types: Dinaric region is completely lacking mineral water types while, on the other side, in the Pannonian region even the spring waters show stronger mineralization in comparison with their Dinaric counterparts. Typically, all natural waters from Croatia bear the bicarbonate (HCO3) signature. However, Ca–Mg cation pair combination is characteristic of spring waters while Na–K dominates in the mineral waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable management and protection of spring waters must be based on reliable predictions of flow and transport phenomena. Process-based models are frequently applied to accomplish this task. The provision of adequate model parameters is a prerequisite for predictive modelling. Frequently, this involves the use of inverse modelling, i.e. model parameters are adjusted until model results match field observations. Thus, process-based models are employed not only for prediction (predictive models) but also to support the aquifer characterisation (interpretative models). This work provides an overview of modelling techniques that can be applied to spring catchments for the aquifer characterisation or predictive purposes. The selection of an appropriate model must account for the type of aquifer: Continuum models describing flow through porous media are based on effective macroscopic properties of a representative elementary volume. Yet spring catchments are often composed of fractured or karstified hard rocks. The length scale of the discontinuities in these rocks may be so large that continuum approaches are found to be inadequate. Therefore, other distributed parameter models, such as discrete fracture networks or hybrid models that combine continuum and discrete approaches have been developed. All these models have in common that they require spatial parameter distributions. From a practical point of view, the application of distributed parameter models poses great challenges to the hydrogeological characterisation of spring catchments, in particular, in alpine terrain. These practical issues suggest the use of parsimonious global modelling approaches (lumped parameter models), in which the spring catchment is represented by only few global parameters rather than by spatial parameter distributions. Some of these approaches are empirical, i.e. they do not account for the physics of flow. Others are based on solving the flow equations for certain scenarios. Recently, process-based global approaches have emerged that incorporate the spatial heterogeneity of the spring catchment in the model equation. It is suggested that this type of approach is more appropriate than empirical models if predictions are required in a changing environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An optimized model of multivariate classification for the monitoring of eighteen spring waters in the land of Serra St. Bruno, Calabria, Italy, has been developed. Thirty analytical parameters for each water source were investigated and reduced to eight by means of Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Water springs were grouped in five distinct classes by cluster techniques (CA) and a model for their classification was built by a Partial Least Squares–Discriminant Analysis (PLS–DA) procedure. The model was optimized and validated and then applied to new data matrices, containing the analytical parameters carried out on the same sources during the successive years. This model proved to be able to notice deviations of the global analytical characteristics, by pointing out in the course of time a different distribution of the samples within the classes. The variation of nitrate concentration was demonstrated to be the major responsible for the observed class shifts. The shifting sources were localized in areas used as sowable lands and high variability of nitrate content was ascribed to the practice of crop rotation, involving a varying use of the nitrogenous chemical fertilizers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The purpose of this study was to monitor and evaluate the specific characteristics and properties of the most important water resources in Dalmatia, located in Southern Croatia, for a period of five years (1999-2003). The paper presents a detailed account of the water's chemical content, classification and concentration of salts. The bacteriological pollution levels are indicated by the total coliform bacterial levels (MPN coli/100 ml). The water characteristics are expressed by coefficients which represent the ratios between water ingredients. The Ca/Mg eq ratio, SO4/Cl eq ratio and K1, K2 for bicarbonate hardness were calculated. The hygienic characteristics of the water samples were expressed by the total coliforin bacteria estimation (MPN coli/100 ml), the permanganate consumption (KMnO4) and biological oxygen demand (BOD5). Karst waters, i.e. rain waters, in Dalmatia are moderately hard, the SO4/Cl ratio is 0.38-1.6, non corrosive (K1 lower than 0.2) and not significantly mineralised (<500 mg/L minerals). Sulfate waters are generally hard, the SO4/Cl ratio is higher than 1.6, K1 is 0.2-0.65. Marine waters are quite hard or hard, particularly at the river estuaries, the SO4/Cl ratio is lower than 0.38, and K1 is higher than 0.65. Rain water direction equation, marine direction equation and sulfate direction equation are calculated on the base of SO/Cl ratio. The groundwater and springs in Dalmatia are less polluted than surface waters. A majority of the water observed, 24 of 42 locations, have geometric average values of MPN coli<150/100 ml of water. This group includes the majority of springs in Dalmatia, as well as some sections of rivers studied. The highest bacteriological pollution was found at nine locations where MPN coli>1000/100 ml. Moderate pollution was found at nine locations where MPN coli is between 150-1000/100 ml of water The water in Dalmatia is quite safe and mainly preserves its natural properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to monitor and record the specific characteristics and properties of most of the important water resources in Dalmatia located in Southern Croatia for a period of 5 years (1998–2002) according to established standards for drinking water. The paper presents a detailed account of their chemical content, the classification and the concentration of salts. The bacteriological pollution levels are indicated by the total coliform bacterial levels (MPN coli/100 mL). The water characteristics are expressed by coefficients, which represent the ratios between water ingredients. The Ca/Mg eq ratio, SO4/Cl eq ratio and K1, K2 for bicarbonate hardness were calculated. The hygienic characteristics of the water samples were expressed by the total coliform bacteria estimation (MPN coli/100 mL), the permanganate consumption (KMnO4) and biological oxygen demand (BOD5). Karst waters in Dalmatia are moderately hard, the SO4/Cl ratio is 0.38–1.6, non-corrosive ( K1 lower than 0.2) and not significantly mineralised (< 500 mg/L minerals). Sulphate waters are generally hard, the SO4/Cl ratio is higher than 1.6, K1 is 0.2–0.65. Marine waters are quite hard or hard, particularly at the river estuaries, the SO4/Cl ratio is lower than 0.38, and K1 is higher than 0.65. The groundwater and springs in Dalmatia are less polluted than surface waters. A majority of these have a geometric average value of MPN coli < 150/100 mL of water observed in 24 of 42 locations studied. The highest bacteriological pollution was found in nine locations where MPN coli > 1000/100 mL and moderate pollution was found in nine locations where MPN coli is between 150 and 1000/100 mL of water. The physical and chemical parameters determined for the most sources in Dalmatia are safe below the international permissible limits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV) was used to determine Cd, Pb and Cu in spring waters of the Sibylline Mountains National Park, Central Italy. Samples were collected from three different areas of the Park (Mount Bove North, Mount Bove South and Springs of River Nera) during the period 2004-2011. Physical-chemical parameters were also determined to obtain a general characterization of the waters. Very low metal concentrations were observed (i.e., Cd 1.3±0.4 ng L-1, Pb 13.8±5.6 ng L-1, Cu 157±95 ng L-1), well below the legal limits and also below the medians of known Italian and European data. Comparing the three areas it was noted that waters from the area of the Nera Springs are the poorest in heavy metals and the richest in minerals, that conversely the waters of Mt. Bove North are the richest in heavy metals and the poorest in mineral salts, and finally that intermediate values both for heavy metals and mineral salts were observed for the waters of Mt. Bove South.

Preserving the hydration status means to balance daily fluids and salt losses with gains, where the losses depend on several physiological and environmental factors. Especially for athletes, these losses could be relevant and negatively influence the performance: therefore, their hydro-saline status must be preserved with personalized pre- and rehydration plans all along the performance period. Scientific literature in this field is mainly dedicated to artificial sport drinks. Different territories in most world areas are rich in drinking natural mineral spring waters with saline compositions that reflect their geological origin and that are used for human health (often under medical prescription). However, scarce scientific attention has been dedicated to the use of these waters for athletes. We therefore reviewed the existing literature from the innovative viewpoint of matching spring water mineral compositions with different athletic performances and their hydro-saline requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Springs are natural outflows of groundwater to the surface and are often the only places to gain insights into underground processes, especially in protected areas. Contact with rocks changes the parameters of water, especially its chemical composition, which can be easily expressed via hydrochemical typing using the Szczukariew–Priklonski classification. Knowledge of the distribution and chemical compositions of springs is essential for a good hydrological and hydrogeological understanding of a given area. In previous decades, underground water remained mostly uncontaminated, and the ions used in the Szczukariew–Priklonski classification, namely, Na+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Cl−, SO42− and HCO3−, provided accurate descriptions of this water. However, due to anthropogenic activity in the last decades, NO3− and NH4+ ions in shares greater than 20% have been frequently noted in underground and spring water. Research has been conducted in two forested regions: within the Skrzyczne range, which is under pressure from high air pollution coming from the Ostrava and Upper Silesia industrial districts, and in Gorce National Park, which is impacted by low-level air pollution. Water samples were collected three times per year in 2011 and 2012 at various water levels after a spring snow thaw, a period of heavy rain and a dry period. A search for the following ions was conducted: Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, NH4+, HCO3−, SO42−, Cl− and NO3−. Under the Szczukariew–Priklonski classification system, due to the continuous accumulation of nitrogen compounds from air pollution, the shares of nitrates and ammonium ions in underground water and spring water are likely to increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]