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The article focuses on assessing the impact of water quality on bird populations around Singanallur Lake in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India. It highlights the pollution threats posed by rapid urbanization, industrial activities, and unsustainable agricultural practices on the lake's ecosystem. It analyzes the physicochemical parameters, nutrient content, and heavy metal concentrations in the water.

The quality of freshwater sources is a key factor in sustainable development. This study investigated the water quality suitability of Ossiomo River for human consumption and the implications for public health. Water samples were collected and analysed from October 2021 to March 2022. Results indicated that the water physico-chemical parameters from sampled locations were within their respective National Environmental Standards and Regulation Enforcement Agency (NESRA) permissible limits except for pH (< 6.5), dissolved oxygen (< 6.0mg L−1), cadmium (> 0.005m /L−1), manganese (> 0.05mg L−1) and total hydrocarbon content (>10mg L−1). Comprehensive pollution index (0.4–1.0) and water quality index (251.57–765.37) values indicate that the water body was slightly polluted and unsuitable for human consumption (WQI > 50). Health risk assessment showed that children and adults were predisposed to non-carcinogenic risk (HIoral > 1) and carcinogenic risk (ICR: 1.21E-02 and 2.84E-03) from heavy metals through oral exposure. Natural run-off and anthropogenic activities were identified sources of heavy metals and hydrocarbons within the catchment. The study has provided data for water resource quality monitoring and raised concerns as to the need for immediate action to safeguard the public health of communities surrounding the Ossiomo River, through the provision of alternative sources of potable water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yamuna River water in Agra city of India is contaminated with toxic pollutants, including heavy metals that cause damage to the environment and human health. At present, the direct use of river water for drinking purposes and household activities lead to the direct exposure of society to the contaminants. In this study, Yamuna River water samples were collected from three different sites in Agra city during the monsoon, summer, and winter seasons. The physico-chemical parameters were estimated along with heavy metals. In physico-chemical parameter, the values found were mostly above the permissible limits. The results water samples contain high levels of cadmium, chromium, lead, and nickel above the desirable levels in most cases. The metagenomic analysis revealed that Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Verrucomicrobia, Actinobacteria, and Planctobacteria were the most abundant phyla with a relative abundance of 61%, 9.34%, 5.23%, 4.64%, and 4.3%, respectively. The Comamonadaceae, the most abundant family consists of the genera involved in hydrogen oxidation, iron reduction, degraders of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and fermentation. The presence of Pseudomonas, Nitrosomonas sp., Thauera humireducens and Dechloromonas denitrificans (decomposition of sewage and organic matter) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa indicates the presence of heavy metal degrading bacteria in water sample. Functional prediction showed the presence of genes responsible for different metabolic pathways that could help developing new bioremediation strategies. The study concludes the status of water contamination, the presence of complex microbial community and suggests the futuristic use and their role in bioremediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in population and rapid industrial development have resulted in surface water pollution that stresses groundwate r resources to ensure sustainable consumption and human well-being. The present study was aimed to assess the physicochemical characteristics and heavy metal concentration of groundwater in Aizawl city. The study also seeks to determine the indicator parameters of water quality through analysis of variance (ANOVA) and correlation coefficient in relation to physico - chemical properties. The results revealed that all physico-chemical parameters were within the regulatory standards, except turbidity (80.9 NTU) and phosphate (0.6365 mg/L). Trace amounts of Zinc (Zn) and Copper (Cu) were also present; however, Iron (Fe) and Manganese (Mn) slightly exceeded (Fe: 1.162 mg/L; Mn: 0.6892 mg/L) the permissible limit. Statistically, two-way ANOVA revealed that temperature, chloride, total alkalinity (TA), total hardness (TH), calcium, and dissolved oxygen (DO) wer e significant (p<0.001) both between sites and seasons. Further, TH showed positive and significant correlation with total dissolved solid (TDS) (R²=0.792), chloride (R²=0.52), TA (R²=0.62), calcium (R²=0.88), and Zn (R²=0.61). Conversely, DO demonstrated negative and significant correlation with turbidity (R²=-0.73), chloride (R²=-0.52), phosphates (R²=-0.70), ammonia (R²=-0.81), and Mn (R²=-0.58). These results indicate that the analysis of TH and DO can serve function as proxies for indirectly indicating the presence and concentrations of the other correlated water quality parameters. Thus, TH and DO act as indicator parameters for water quality in holistic groundwater monitoring in Aizawl. The identification of water quality indicator parameters can play a key role in future research for cost-effective, rapid, and seasonal groundwater monitoring to ensure the sustainable management of this resource. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims at evaluating the quality of shallow groundwater (SGW) and its suitability for irrigation purpose in the most urbanised part of Johannesburg city, South Africa. The SGW samples were collected in three consecutive years and analysed for 20 selected physicochemical parameters, and heavy metals. The results were compared with the South African water quality, and Food and Agricultural Organization irrigation water quality guidelines, and standard indices derived from laboratory outputs. The results of the study show that all physiochemical parameters and heavy metals were within the limits set by both guidelines for irrigation purposes, except for potassium (3.58 mg·dm-3) and manganese levels (3.152 mg·dm-3). The calculated irrigation parameter values of sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), sodium percentage (Na%), residual sodium carbonate (RSC), magnesium hazard (MH), Kelly's ratio (KR) and permeability index (PI) were within the permissible range of irrigation water quality standards. The findings of this study provide helpful information for decision-makers such as utilisation of the studied groundwater for irrigation uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suitability assessment of water bodies for human consumption and its implication on human health is critical to water resources utilisation and sustainable development. This study investigated the water quality of the Owan River and the potential health risk to users. Examined physico-chemical parameters were within the Nigerian National Environmental Standards and Regulation Enforcement Agency permissible limits, except for the lead concentration. Water quality index values (Water Quality Index: 84.50–316.20) indicated that surface water from the sampling locations were of poor quality and unsuitable for drinking (Water Quality Index: > 50). The comprehensive pollution index values (Comprehensive Pollution Index: 0.31–0.57) indicate the water is sub–clean to slightly polluted. Evaluated non–carcinogenic risk to human health showed that children in the receptor population were predisposed to risk from heavy metals through oral ingestion (Oral Hazard Index: > 1), while the water was safe for dermal contact (Dermal Hazard Index: < 1) for adults and children. Integrated carcinogenic risk values classified the surface water as Grade IV (Medium risk), with cadmium having the highest carcinogenic risk. Cadmium accounted for approximately 94% of the total carcinogenic risk and hence a concern for public health. Natural runoff and anthropogenic activities were identified as sources of pollutants within the watershed. The study has provided data for water resource quality monitoring and public health management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water resources are vital for life, yet they are exposed to various risks. In the estern Rif of Morocco, the Oued Kert is a crucial water resource for a large population. Therefore, evaluating their health status is essential to ensure their optimal preservation. In this context, five stations (S1, S2, S3, S4, and S5) were monitored, during the four campaigns (September, December, March, and June 2022), to assess the physicochemical quality of water. In this sense, seven parameters were measured, temperature, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), Chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrates, and ammonium. In addition, an evaluation of metal contamination was conducted during a single campaign (May 2022) by measuring four elements (Al, Fe, Li, and Mn). The levels of electrical conductivity (greater than 3000 μS cm-1), and COD (greater than 40mg L-1 in S2, S3, and S4) indicate poor water quality, while, the average concentrations of ammonium classify these waters as of moderate quality. The results of metal contamination revealed the presence of iron (Fe) at a concentration of 1.9 mg L-1 in S5, classifying these waters as of moderate quality according to Moroccan water quality standards.

The waters of Shatt Al-Arab River were examined by determining the content of heavy elements (Ferrous, copper, Bromine, Chromium and zinc) and the petroleum hydrocarbons. In addition, 7 parameters were evaluated, including the chloride, phosphate (PO4), sulphate (SO4), nitrate (NO3), total suspended solids (TSS), temperature (°C) and the concentration of hydrogen ions (pH). The atomic absorption spectrometry was used to analyze the targeted heavy metals, whereas the infrared (IR) spectroscopy was used to measure petroleum hydrocarbons. The five heavy metals' values were recorded during 2021, and a slight fluctuation in the concentrations of petroleum hydrocarbons was detected. Their values were under the acceptable environmental limits. The levels of TSS (68 mg/l), the highest concentration of Cl (888 mg/l) and SO4 (677 mg/l) were higher than the acceptable environmental limits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial effluents are one of the major sources of environmental pollution. The major objective of the study was to assess the physico-chemical parameters and concentration of heavy metals in industrial effluents of industries in Kathmandu Valley. Physico-chemical parameters like temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, turbidity, total dissolved salts, total suspended solids, hardness, calcium, magnesium, alkalinity, chloride, and nitrate were analyzed. Likewise, the concentration of heavy metals like arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb) was also determined. On average, total suspended solids, calcium hardness, and nitrate were found above the permissible limits whereas the rest of the Physico-chemical parameters were found within the permissible limits. Regarding heavy metals, the total mean concentration of all the samples was observed in the following sequence: Fe > As > Zn > Mn > Pb > Cu > Ni > Cd. The levels of heavy metals particularly Fe, Pb, Zn, and As were found to exceed the national and international standard limits. The Pearson correlation analysis showed significant correlations (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05) between most of the metals in the samples of effluents. The result suggested that effluents discharged from various industries are of potential threat to surface and groundwater sources as well as to human health. Thus, the construction of wastewater treatment plants is recommended in every industry for reuse purposes or discharging into the environment. Moreover, strict environmental laws must be created among the industries concerning the potential hazard of industrial effluents to the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The main emphasis of this study was to assess the status of drinking water quality from four different water sources available in and around an institutional campus of Lumami, Nagaland University, with special reference to the detection of trace heavy metal elements. The results of the physico-chemical parameters of the water show that values of DO, BOD5 and free CO2 at S3 are beyond the permissible limit set by WHO and BIS. The values of DO in all the three stations (S1, S2 and S4) are near the maximum permissible limit of drinking water, indicating the deterioration of water quality, whereas the rests of the parameters are below the permissible limit of WHO and BIS. The detection of Hg in all stations along with alarmingly high concentrations of Fe and others such as Cu, Zn, Mn and Se is perceived as a matter of concern. On the other hand, As and Pb were not detected in any station. The detection of Hg and Fe in all the four types of water sources is an indication of contaminant hazards and needs drinking water treatment practices in these areas which in turn have implications on human health.

This study was conducted to assess the effect of wastewater quality of Paharang drain Faisalabad on ground water quality of adjacent areas. Ground water samples and drain water samples were collected and analyzed by using standard methods. Parameters of wastewater samples were compared with Pakistan National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS). Results indicated that physico-chemical parameters including pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), chloride, fluoride and total hardness were found exceeding the permissible limits in wastewater samples. Similarly, few physicochemical parameters in groundwater were found within the permissible limit while electrical conductivity (EC), TDS, chlorides (Cl), fluoride (F), and total hardness in most of samples were found above the Pak EPA and WHO standard limits. Heavy metals like nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), lead (Pb), andarsenic (As) were found within the prescribed concentrations in drain and ground water samples. Statistical analysis showed significant effect of some drain wastewater parameters like conductivity, TDS, salt, temperature, and Cl on the corresponding ground water quality. A strong positive correlation between pH, EC, TDS, Salt, and Cl in drain wastewater and strong positive correlation between EC, TDS and Salt in ground water samples was observed. For improving the ground water quality in the adjacent areas textile wastewater treatment all factories is required, and a combined effluent treatment plant (CETP) at the Paharang drain is also recommended.

In this systematic research work, fifty-four groundwater samples of Solan and Shimla districts of Himachal Pradesh, India, have been analysed for heavy metals like As, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Ni and Pb using atomic absorption spectrophotometer as well as physico-chemical parameters like pH, redox potential, electrical conductivity and total dissolved salts (TDS). Most of the water samples were found to be alkaline. Based on their TDS values, 53 groundwater samples were considered 'fresh' and 'desirable for drinking'. The investigated groundwater samples were found to be heavily contaminated with As, Co, Cr, Ni and Pb, as their average values of 84.3, 106.7, 101.4, 84.1 and 131.9 ppb, respectively, far exceeded the guideline values recommended by World Health Organization and United States Environment Protection Agency. Doses due to ingestion via drinking water pathway and dermal absorption were computed for two different age groups of child and adult. The non-carcinogenic risk expressed in terms of target hazard quotient was found to be greater than unity for As, Co, Cr and Pb. The average carcinogenic risk of As and Cr calculated as 1.56 × 10–3 and 2.38 × 10–2, respectively, crossed the acceptable range of 10–6–10–4. It may thus be concluded that the residents of the study region have high probability of developing adverse health effects from heavy metal exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water pollution requires constant analysis and revision of water resource policy at all levels. Unfortunately, waterways are polluted by illegal dumping of urban waste, industrial waste, and a variety of human activities. Hazardous releases from industry are harmful to both human and animal health and safety. The Ravi River is the largest river in Punjab, Pakistan, and its water quality has deteriorated as a result of the inflow of municipal and industrial waste. As a result of this pollution, the aquifer environment is deteriorating. This situation necessitates an assessment of the pollution level in the Ravi and its sediments in order to make an urgent and ecological arrangement to preserve and replenish the quality of the aquifer for long-term and safe use without interfering with the natural flow of the environment. Samples of fish (Cirrhina mrigala), water, and sediment from three public fishing sites in the Ravi River, Shahdra Bridge, Saggian Bridge, and Balloki Headworks, were collected on a monthly basis from October 2015 to March 2016 to detect metal concentrations. Physico-chemical parameters viz dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, and electrical conductivity were measured on the spot, while hardness, turbidity, and alkalinity were measured in the laboratory. The findings show that the highest concentrations of chromium (Cr) and lead (Pb) are present in water, fish organs, and river Ravi bed sediments at all three locations with statistically significant variations. Pb was slightly higher for all fish organs compared to Cr. The highest concentration of chromium in water samples was found in October 2015, while the lowest concentration was detected in February 2016. The study concludes that all types of wastewater (sewage and agricultural waste) should be treated and tested for toxic heavy metals such as Cd and Pb prior to discharge into aquatic resources. Finally, for the protection of aquatic life and to keep heavy metals out of the food chain, special attention must be paid to the enforcement of all applicable laws and regulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater pollution is a very common problem worldwide, as it poses a serious threat to both the environment and the economic and social development and consequently generates several types of costs. The analysis of pollution control involves a permanent comparison between pollution costs and the costs associated with various methods of pollution reduction. An environmental policy based on economic instruments is more effective than an environmental policy focused on command and control tools. In this respect, the present paper provides a case study showing how anthropogenic factors such as wastewater, industrial, agricultural, and natural factors are able to change the physical and chemical parameters of groundwater in the study area, thus endangering their quality. In order to monitor the groundwater quality in the region of Dobrudja, an analysis of physico-chemical parameters was performed. The content of heavy metals was analyzed and the health risk index was taken into account and analyzed, in order to set a better correctness of the metal content from the underground waters. Studies on groundwater quality control have shown that, in many parts of the world, water has different degrees of quality depending on the natural and anthropogenic factors acting on the pertaining environment. This is why more attention should be paid to the prevention of groundwater pollution and the immediate remediation of accidents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main emphasis of this study was to assess the status of drinking water quality from four different water sources available in and around an institutional campus of Lumami, Nagaland University, with special reference to the detection of trace heavy metal elements. The results of the physico-chemical parameters of the water show that values of DO, BOD5 and free CO2 at S3 are beyond the permissible limit set by WHO and BIS. The values of DO in all the three stations (S1, S2 and S4) are near the maximum permissible limit of drinking water, indicating the deterioration of water quality, whereas the rests of the parameters are below the permissible limit of WHO and BIS. The detection of Hg in all stations along with alarmingly high concentrations of Fe and others such as Cu, Zn, Mn and Se is perceived as a matter of concern. On the other hand, As and Pb were not detected in any station. The detection of Hg and Fe in all the four types of water sources is an indication of contaminant hazards and needs drinking water treatment practices in these areas which in turn have implications on human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract. In this study, physical and chemical properties of sugar factory waste (sugar beet seed wastes) were determined. The following parameters were analyzed: pH, EC, organic matter, C:N ratio, total concentrations of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe and Mn, and the content of Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb, Cu and Zn. The EC values of waste material were 8.96-10.25 dS/m. pH values varied from 4.96 to 7.30. Organic matter content changed between 86.54 and 89.02%. C:N ratio changed from 18.68 to 24.49. Total N content varied from 2.10 to 2.70%. Waste material contains different quantities of plant nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, etc.). The physicochemical characterization is important when planning the use and management of organic waste. Heavy metal concentrations of seed waste were below the regulatory limits of Turkey and the European Union. Finally, the compost from sugar factory waste products is of good quality and suitable for use as fertilizer in agriculture.

Ologe and Badagry Lagoons are important tropical lagoons in Lagos, Nigeria. The water quality and heavy metal concentration were studied for a period of 2 years (Aug. 2016 to Jul. 2018) using standard methods. The least temperature obtained was 28.70±0.05 °C in Ologe Lagoon during the wet season and the maximum recorded was 29.41±0.08 in in Badagry Lagoon during the dry season. During the wet season (May-October) the temperature was steady and similar between the two connecting tropical lagoons. The salinity values vary at different stations in both Lagoon, 0.06 to 0.44 % in Ologe Lagoon and 0.08 to 0.28 % in Badagry Lagoon. Badagry Lagoon showed significant higher values in conductivity, total dissolved solid, chemical oxygen demand, biological oxygen demand, total suspended solid and total hardness across seasons. Heavy metal results showed that except for lead (0.25±0.10 mg/L), Ologe Lagoon had higher concentrations of all examined heavy metals (Zinc, copper, iron, chromium, lead, cadmium, manganese and cobalt) than Badagry Lagoon across season. Furthermore, cadmium, manganese and cobalt were not detected in Badagry Lagoon across season. The two studied connecting Lagoons especially Ologe Lagoon is exposed to dramatic deterioration in its water quality due to different wastes that discharge into the water body. These lagoons are clearly polluted by metals for various utilizations. As a result, the study suggests enforcing the controls on waste discharged into lagoons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, seawater heavy metal concentrations (Al, As, Cu, Ba, Zn, Fe, Cd, Co, Cr, Pb, Mn, Mo and Ni) measured by ICP-OES and water quality parameters (NH4-N, NO3-, N, NO3, PO4-P, PO4-3, suspended solids, temperature, conductivity, pH and dissolved oxygen) were evaluated in Izmit Bay (The Marmara Sea). The study was carried out seasonally between December 2016 and September 2017 at four separate sampling stations. The mean concentrations of heavy metals in mg L-1 were: Al: 0.074, As: 0.020, Cu: 0.020, Ba: 0.043, Zn: 0.091, Fe: 0.253, Cd: 0.010, Co: 0.022, Cr: 0.010, Pb: 0.010, Mn: 0.291, Mo: 0.013 and Ni: 0.014. The mean annual value of water quality parameters were: NH4-N: 0.19, NO3-N: 1.79, NO3 - : 8.16, PO4-P: 0.20, PO4-3: 0.37, suspended solids:16.61 mg L-1, temperature: 16.47 °C, conductivity: 38.19 µS/cm, pH: 7.52 and dissolved oxygen: 9.52 mg L-1. Generally, when the physical and chemical parameters measured at the sampling stations were evaluated according to above-ground water quality regulation, the water quality was Class II, as defined by national regulations. The correlation between physico-chemical parameters and heavy metals measured at the research stations was investigated. There was a negative correlation between NO3- and both Cu and Mn (p<0.05). There was also a positive correlation between suspended solids and As (p<0.05). concentrations of Fe and Mn values were found to be high at the 2st and 4nd stations. This is probably due to the fact that there are many maritime port facilities around the stations and intensive port transportation. Other heavy metal concentrations were found to be in accordance with the criteria.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollution of industry-adjacent surface water bodies become a major environmental concern in Bangladesh recently. Therefore, this study aimed to elaborate assessment of physico-chemical characteristics of the Dhaleshwari River (the adjacent river of newly shifted tannery industrial park) and also the discharged effluent from the central effluent treatment plant (CETP) considering both seasonal and spatial variations. Among the examined 30 water quality parameters (including 11 heavy metals), only TDS, Cl-, NO3-N, EC, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Ni met the standards for discharged wastewater from industrial units into inland surface water set by Bangladesh government. This indicated that the CETP is not fully and/or effectively functioning. Out of 19 parameters (excluding heavy metal), 14 parameters exceeded the Bangladesh standard for drinking water quality either spatially or seasonally. The river water quality indicated slowly biodegradable capacity with algal bloom risk. The concentrations of the studied heavy metals in the river water followed a decreasing order of Ca > K > Mg > Na > Fe > Cr > Pb > Ni > Cu > Zn > Cd, and Cr concentration in the winter season exceeded the standard values. The concentrations of other heavy metals met the quality standard that indicated still the river is capable to self-purify. Furthermore, strong (p < 0.01) and significant (p < 0.05) correlation were observed among the quality parameters in river water. This study suggested that the efficiency of the existing CETP needs to be enhanced, and the proper operation and maintenance are required to meet the desired discharge standard quality. Also, all the unauthorized wastewater outfalls from tanneries must be closed to save the Dhaleshwari River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work designed to monitor the hygienic quality of drinking water supply in a small commercial poultry farm and to assess the efficiency of different new disinfectant compounds against some pathogenic bacterial isolates. A total of 60 water samples was collected from both the main source and drinkers for physico-chemical and bacteriological examination. The sensitivity pattern of 40 strains of bacterial isolates to commonly used disinfectants in poultry facilities for water supply treatment was evaluated using the broth macro-dilution method. Results, the mean values of both alkalinity and total hardness were found in the highest rate of 183.0±17.6 and 345.6±7.6 mg/l compared to their values in the main water source. Furthermore, the mean value of ammonia in drinkers besides nitrite, and phosphate discovered at the highest level compared to the main water supply (1.36±0.31, 3.4±0.46, 26.3±0.78 mg/l, respectively). Both E. coli and Shigella spp. in drinkers were detected at the highest isolation rate (22.6%). Salmonella kentucky (S. kentucky: O20, 8 H I) isolates were found at the highest rate of 57.1%. Whilst the pathogenic E. coli serotyping Poly3 (O157) recorded at 66.67%, followed by E. coli O114 33.33%. Biocidal efficiency of Klorsept 25 disinfectant against investigated pathogenic bacterial isolates was 100% at a concentration of 2.0 mg/l after 180 min of exposure. Whilst the efficiency of calcium hypochlorite Ca (Ocl)2 against E. coli and S. kentucky was 100% at a concentration of 0.5 mg/l and exposure time 120 min. The susceptibility of all bacterial isolates to H2O2 disinfectant at a concentration of 5.0% was 100% within 60 min contact time. In conclusion, the investigation of hygienic quality of water supply should be occurred periodically to ensure the safety of water source for poultry chick's health. The sensitivity of the studied pathogenic bacterial isolates is 100% to Klorsept 25 disinfectant at a concentration of 2.0 mg/l, calcium hypochlorite (Ca (Ocl)2) at 0.5 mg/l, and H2O2 at 5.0% at exposure time does not exceed 180 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper uses a statistical approach to evaluate the degree of metal pollution, trace element concentrations, and seasonal evolutions of various physicochemical parameters of Moroccan drinking water sludge. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to analyze these physicochemical parameters (including water temperature (Tw), volatile suspended solids (VSS), and suspended matter (SM)) in liquid raw sludge, the conductivity (Cond(s) and pH(s)) in addition to the trace element content of the supernatant (e.g., Cd(s), Pb(s), Cr(s)), pH and heavy metal and trace element contents (e.g., Pb, Cr, Cd, Fe, Al, Cu, Zn, P, N, K and C) in dried hydroxide sludge. The measured quantities of Cd and Cr in the supernatant did not exceed their recommended limits in wastewater treated for irrigation; however, the amount of Zn, Pb and Cu measured in dried hydroxide sludge exceeded their limits as defined by international standards. PCA reveals that the principal component F1 indicates that 25.20% of all variance can be mostly attributed to Zn content and conductivity, while the principal component F2 demonstrates that 21.00% of all variance is likely caused by the previously mentioned physicochemical parameters, most significantly C and pH(s). Finally, this paper analyses the merits of this analytical approach and discusses its important applications for solving crucial environmental issues.

Groundwater pollution is a very common problem worldwide, as it poses a serious threat to both the environment and the economic and social development and consequently generates several types of costs. The analysis of pollution control involves a permanent comparison between pollution costs and the costs associated with various methods of pollution reduction. An environmental policy based on economic instruments is more effective than an environmental policy focused on command and control tools. In this respect, the present paper provides a case study showing how anthropogenic factors such as wastewater, industrial, agricultural, and natural factors are able to change the physical and chemical parameters of groundwater in the study area, thus endangering their quality. In order to monitor the groundwater quality in the region of Dobrudja, an analysis of physico-chemical parameters was performed. The content of heavy metals was analyzed and the health risk index was taken into account and analyzed, in order to set a better correctness of the metal content from the underground waters. Studies on groundwater quality control have shown that, in many parts of the world, water has different degrees of quality depending on the natural and anthropogenic factors acting on the pertaining environment. This is why more attention should be paid to the prevention of groundwater pollution and the immediate remediation of accidents.

This study aimed to determine the metal (Al, As, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) levels in the gill, liver, and muscle tissues of some fish species, water and sediment samples taken from Tercan Dam Lake (Erzincan, Turkey). Initially, some physico-chemical parameters of the water such as temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen were measured, and the relationship was determined between these parameters and the metal levels detected in the water. According to the analysis conducted on the water and the sediment, the most frequent metal was determined to be Fe. During the analyses conducted in the water, Pb and Zn metals were not detected, and all metals were detected in the sediment. It was determined that metals accumulated to a higher degree in the liver and gill tissues compared to muscle tissues. The harmfulness of the metal amounts determined in the water, sediment, and fish tissues was evaluated by comparing them to the acceptable values determined by national and international institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation has brought out the ground truth, how religious festivals, customs and rituals play a far reaching role to lead the pollution of water. The strength of water pollution of the river Ganga and other streams fluctuates seasonally. Due to further supply of water through heavy rainfall, the Hardness, Alkalinity, Total Nitrogen in water, Heavy Metals, Detergents slightly fluctuates during the monsoon. It becomes alarming during the festivals as huge number of pilgrims and tourists gather from different parts of the country and world. Present study concluded that there were minor differences in physico-chemical parameters of all the three sampling stations selected for their study. Research show that all the parameters, which have been studied are still under the standard limits but some of them are very closer to them is an alarm for increasing pollution status. Due to regular dumping of ashes and bones of dead body, effluents of industries, hotels and sewage water of city should be treated before mixing in the river Ganga. Besides, this much consideration should be paid to control the pollution maintain the limits. The study not only comprises all types of threats of the area, but also comprises the suggestions and recommendations concerning the management of natural hazards and combating the illegal human interference on entire environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The suitability of six waste water sources for drinking and irrigation purposes in Akure, metropolis Nigeria was assessed. Waste water samples were collected from six sources (Tisco limited located at Akure North Local Government Area, FUTA Post-graduate Hotel, a Residential Quatre, State General Hospital Akure, Mandate Restaurant located at the South Gate of the Federal University of Technology, Akure and Mr Bigg Akure) in Akure, Nigeria. These were analysed for biochemical properties determination. The parameters determined include: pH, turbidity, alkalinity, electrical conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) and total solids (TS). Others were chloride (CL-), total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids (TSS), lead (Pb), nitrate (NO3), sulphate (SO4-2), oil and grease (O/G), coliform count and heavy metals. The parameters were determined using APHA (2005) standard procedures and results obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. Also, parameters such as Sodium Absorption Ratio (SAR), Na percentage, Magnesium Hazard (MH), Kelley's index (KI), and soluble sodium percent (SSP). All the wastewater samples investigated contained a considerable degree of contamination which indicated the pollution of the wastewater. The results for the waste water indicated that the pH ranged from 5.37-7.60, EC ranged from 384.67-1656.7 µs cm-1, TDS ranged from 2462-10604.00 mg L-1, TS ranged from 16899.00-34438.00 mg L-1, acidity ranged from 230.00-662.33mg L-1, alkalinity ranged from 81.3-415.33 mg L-1, chloride ranged from 82.77-457.08 mg L-1, TH ranged from 24.30-89.00 mg L-1, turbidity ranged from 7.93-188.55 NTU, Dissolved Oxygen ranged from 0.00-9.20 mg L-1, BOD ranged from 0.00-1096.80 mg L-1, Sulphate ranged from 51.27-190.09 mg L-1, nitrate ranged from 4.08-17.27 mg L-1, and O/G ranged from 0.64-15.32 mg L-1. Statistical analyses showed significant (p<0.05) differences at specific confidence levels. Most of the values were above the maximum permissible levels of FAO, WHO and NSDWQ standards for drinking water and were mostly below or within the permissible range for irrigation according to FAO standard. Also, parameters such as SAR, SSP, KI, MH indicated the suitability of the waste water for irrigation. Results showed that the wastewater treatment is required to achieve minimum acceptable level for domestic reuse, public awareness on the dangers inherent in the possible re-use of the waste water for domestic purposes need be carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, physical and chemical properties of sugar factory waste (sugar beet seed wastes) were determined. The following parameters were analyzed: pH, EC, organic matter, C:N ratio, total concentrations of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe and Mn, and the content of Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb, Cu and Zn. The EC values of waste material were 8.96-10.25 dS/m. pH values varied from 4.96 to 7.30. Organic matter content changed between 86.54 and 89.02%. C:N ratio changed from 18.68 to 24.49. Total N content varied from 2.10 to 2.70%. Waste material contains different quantities of plant nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, etc.). The physicochemical characterization is important when planning the use and management of organic waste. Heavy metal concentrations of seed waste were below the regulatory limits of Turkey and the European Union. Finally, the compost from sugar factory waste products is of good quality and suitable for use as fertilizer in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small-scale gold miners in Paracale, Camarines Norte use amalgamation process to recover gold from mined ores. In the process, they dispose untreated wastewater to water bodies. In this study, wastewater from an active SSGM ball mill facility in the area was analyzed for physico-chemical parameters and heavy metal concentrations. A total of 40 samples were gathered from the ball mill facility while in full operation and were analyzed for heavy metals (As, Ba, Cd, Hg, Pb). Results showed that all metals (except for Ba) exceed the effluent regulatory limits including Hg (0.1768 mg/L) and Pb (9.3821 mg/L), which are 44 and 94 times higher than the limit, respectively. Presence of Hg concentration in the wastewater confirms the miners' illegal use of Hg in amalgamation process. Based on the mercury balance in amalgamation, around 16.8% of total Hg input goes to the sediment and some 0.21% mixed with wastewater and the bulk 82.99% is in the form of amalgam that becomes Hg vapor after burning. Physico-chemical parameters - temperature, pH, and true color - are within their respective effluent regulatory limits for Class C waters, while TSS (3,596.9 mg/L) is 36 times higher than the 100 mg/L limit. Other parameters, though not regulated, such as ORP (343.9 mV), turbidity (> 800 NTU), and apparent color (9,880 PCU) were analyzed with high concentrations. From this study, wastewater treatment is recommended before disposing of to the receiving waters to reduce the concentration of heavy metals and TSS. Also, the full and strict implementation of the people's small-scale mining law must be maintained to protect human health as well as the environment from the adverse effect of the use of Hg in SSGM processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Itapaji Reservoir serves for municipal water use, artisanal fishing, agricultural uses, and domestic activities. This study was carried out to investigate physico-chemical parameters of the reservoir to provide information for its sustainable management. Surface water samples were collected monthly from April, 2013 to March, 2015 at five purposively selected stations along the reservoir. Water temperature and transparency were measured in situ. Total Suspended Solid (TSS), Total Solid (TS), Phosphate and heavy metals were determined according to APHA methods. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, student's t-test, ANOVA, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) at a0.os• Water temperature was 27.5±0.1 -C; Transparency, 1.5±0.1 m; TSS, 16.6± 0.7 mg/L; TS, 59.7±2.6 mg/L; phosphate, 7.2±0.5 mg/L; zinc, 1.3±0.1 mg/L; copper, 0.9±0.8mg/L; iron, 10.9±0.6 mg/L; lead, 0.1±0.007mg/L and chromium, 0.2±0.02 mg/L. phosphate, TSS, zinc, copper, iron, lead, and chromium exceeded NESREA limits for aquatic life (3.5, 0.25, 0.01, 0.001, 0.05, 0.01, and 0.001 mg/L, respectively), while copper and iron exceeded the WHO standard limit for drinking water (<0.50, and 0.3 respectively). Transparency, TSS, zinc, copper, iron, lead and chromium had significant seasonal variations while Sodium, magnesium and chromium showed significant spatial variation. The PCA showed high positive loadings for phosphate (0.9), transparency (0.9), TS (0.882), and high negative loading for potassium(-0.730). The total suspended solid, phosphate, and some heavy metals that exceeded the recommended standard for aquatic life and drinking water revealed that Itapaji Reservoir is under pollution stress; hence the need for adequate management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper uses a statistical approach to evaluate the degree of metal pollution, trace element concentrations, and seasonal evolutions of various physicochemical parameters of Moroccan drinking water sludge. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to analyze these physicochemical parameters (including water temperature (Tw), volatile suspended solids (VSS), and suspended matter (SM)) in liquid raw sludge, the conductivity (Cond(s) and pH(s)) in addition to the trace element content of the supernatant (e.g., Cd(s), Pb(s), Cr(s)), pH and heavy metal and trace element contents (e.g., Pb, Cr, Cd, Fe, Al, Cu, Zn, P, N, K and C) in dried hydroxide sludge. The measured quantities of Cd and Cr in the supernatant did not exceed their recommended limits in wastewater treated for irrigation; however, the amount of Zn, Pb and Cu measured in dried hydroxide sludge exceeded their limits as defined by international standards. PCA reveals that the principal component F1 indicates that 25.20% of all variance can be mostly attributed to Zn content and conductivity, while the principal component F2 demonstrates that 21.00% of all variance is likely caused by the previously mentioned physicochemical parameters, most significantly C and pH(s). Finally, this paper analyses the merits of this analytical approach and discusses its important applications for solving crucial environmental issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kızılırmak is the longest river of Turkey and the most important one as a resource for various water uses. Therefore Kızılırmak river basin is under pressure from a diverse range of human activities. Six stations were sampled along the Kızılırmak river located in Nevsehir city during 2013-2014 seasonally. The physico-chemical parameters (water temperature, biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), conductivity, nitrite (NO3), ammonium (NH4), ammonia (NH3), phosphate (PO4), sulfate (SO4) and some metal concentrations (Zn, Cu, B, Cr, Ni, Pb, Hg, As, Se, Sb, Mn, Cd and Al) were measured in the water samples to determine the water quality of the Kızılırmak river. When the water quality classes were examined in terms of the measured physico-chemical parameters, it was detected that the river is IV. class for nitrite, III. class for BOD, phosphate and pH, II. class for NH4-N. The results showed that the heavy metal concentrations in water of the Kızılırmak river were within the quality class I. limits of the EPA and WPCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water pollution is gradually increasing in natural waters through anthropogenic activities. This study aimed to use fish scales as a bio-indicator of pollution, along with water quality parameters, and the assessment and detection of selected heavy metals in water samples collected from the River Chenab, including the Chakbandi drain that gathers domestic sewage waste and industrial effluents from Faisalabad and deposits it into this freshwater body. All water quality parameters (pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids (TSS), salinity, conductivity, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), phenols and sulphates) and concentrations of selected heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Mn, Pb and Cr) were found to be considerably higher than permissible limits as defined by the WHO, and therefore capable of causing ill health effects in aquatic organisms. Specimens of fish scales from selected fish were described qualitatively and observed quantitatively. In Catla catla, Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala, the scales showed several deformities in shape and different scale structures such as circuli, radii and annuli. In each of the three types of fish, considerable variation in the morphology of their scales was observed in specimens collected from polluted sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sediment cores were collected from four different mangrove areas of northern Kerala and southern Karnataka, western coast of India. The cores were analysed for the concentration of five heavy metals (Pb, Ni, Zn, Cu Fe) using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. The levels of heavy metals in the present study from all the four sediment cores were in the order Fe > Pb > Zn > Ni > Cu and the mean concentrations of each elements in different cores were comparable. According to Sediment Quality Guidelines (SQG), the mangrove sediments analysed here were moderately contaminated with Ni and heavily contaminated with Pb. The increased concentration of Ni and Pb in the sediments might be due to their atmospheric deposition or water discharge from different far away sources since the areas selected for study were not disturbed by direct anthropogenic impacts. Elevated levels of Fe which is considered to be a common phenomenon in mangrove sediments have also been found in the present study. Heavy metal levels in sediments showed statistically significant correlations with pH, calcium carbonate and organic matter. This suggests the influence of physico-chemical parameters on the adsorption, deposition and persistence of heavy metals in mangrove sediments. The heavy metal concentration and the pollution status of the mangroves of west coast, especially the areas selected in this work are less studied before. Hence the data provide from the present baseline study would be further helpful in remediation and management of mangrove ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aristolochia indica Linn is now an endangered medicinal plant belonging to the family Aristolochiaceae. Many ethono-botanically important species of Aristolochia were found used in the traditional forms of medicine for the treatment of various illnesses. Aim: The present study concerns the microscopic, fluorescent, powder, quantitative microscopic characteristics of the leaves of Aristolichia indica Linn and its physico-chemical standards. Materials and Methods: Morpho-histological profile, High performance thin-layer chromatographic (HPTLC) finger print profile, and heavy metals content of the leaves of Aristolichia indica Linn. Results: The presence of camptodromous pinnate venation with pentagonal shaped areoles with linear veinlet endings, non-glandular hooked trichomes, amphistomatic and anomocytic stomata, small palisade ratio, small stomatal index were the anatomical features characteristics of the taxon. Physico-chemical evaluation of the leaves gave moisture content of 10.5%, total ash 12.7%, acid insoluble ash 1.9%, acid soluble ash 10.8%. High performance thin-layer chromatographic (HPTLC) identification of marker compound (Aristolochic acid I or (AAI)) in methanol extract of leaves was carried out. The developed HPTLC Chromatogram had revealed nine phytoconstutents in extract of leaf sample. The Rf value for Aristolochic acid I (C17H11NO7) was found to be 0.41 and densitometric scanning had shown λmax at 318 nm for the marker compound. The content of marker constituent (AA I) present in shade-dried leaves of Aristochia indica Linn was estimated Background: Aristolochia indica Linn is now an endangered medicinal plant belonging to the family Aristolochiaceae. Many ethono-botanically important species of Aristolochia were found used in the traditional forms of medicine for the treatment of various illnesses. Aim: The present study concerns the microscopic, fluorescent, powder, quantitative microscopic characteristics of the leaves of Aristolichia indica Linn and its physico-chemical standards. Materials and Methods: Morpho-histological profile, High performance thin-layer chromatographic (HPTLC) finger print profile, and heavy metals content of the leaves of Aristolichia indica Linn. Results: The presence of camptodromous pinnate venation with pentagonal shaped areoles with linear veinlet endings, non-glandular hooked trichomes, amphistomatic and anomocytic stomata, small palisade ratio, small stomatal index were the anatomical features characteristics of the taxon. Physico-chemical evaluation of the leaves gave moisture content of 10.5%, total ash 12.7%, acid insoluble ash 1.9%, acid soluble ash 10.8%. High performance thin-layer chromatographic (HPTLC) identification of marker compound (Aristolochic acid I or (AAI)) in methanol extract of leaves was carried out. The developed HPTLC Chromatogram had revealed nine phyto constutents in extract of leaf sample. The Rf value for Aristolochic acid I (C17H11NO7 ) was found to be 0.41 and densitometric scanning had shown λmax at 318 nm for the marker compound. The content of marker constituent (AA I) present in shade-dried leaves of Aristochia indica Linn was estimated as 0.049%. The Flame atomic absorption spectrometric determination of elements had shown appreciable amounts of the elements such as Fe (0.5442 mg/g), Zn (0.026.82 mg/g), Ni (0.008 mg/g,) and Cu (0.002 mg/g) by dry weight of the leaves of Aristolichia indica. Conclusion: The present study suggests that the delineated characteristics of the leaves of A. indica, could tag as the identifying parameters to substantiate and authenticate the raw drugs from the spurious/adulterants materials and could also be effectively used for the regulatory perspectives and quality assessment of Aristololic acid Ι in the medicinal formulation/finished products. The presence of important mineral elements inside this plant showed that it could be a nutritious plant and important to the human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to determinate the groundwater quality from 17 wells, 3 natural springs and 3 samples from a local distribution network. The samples were taken from Nadas village, located in Crisul Repede village, Cluj County. The area has a topography that consists in a valley surrounded by hills (500 - 700 meters high). The main objective was to investigate physico-chemical parameters: pH, TDS, ORP, salinity and heavy metals (Cu, Cd, Cr, Pb, Fe, Zn and Ni). Laboratory analyzes revealed that the waters sampled from well 7 exceeded the permissible limit imposed by US-EPA for TDS value (500 mg/L), wells 4 exceeded the salinity value imposed by US-EPA (0.2 ?), one well had a pH close to permissible limit (9.5), ORP had negative values (between -6.9 and - 143.5 mV), while the heavy metal content varied significantly, depending on the water sources and heavy metal type. Copper and cadmium were not detected in the analyzed water samples, but chromium had values between 1.36 - 40.21 µg/L, zinc between 11.19 -437.6 µg/L, iron increased levels in the wells samples from 10.77 µg/L to 99.90 µg/L, lead was identified in four wells (4.93 - 51.1 µg/L) and nickel ranged between 4.94 - 39.61 µg/L. Were registered significant differences between the water samples collected from wells, natural springs and water samples from the local distribution network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fourteen water and sediment samples were collected from the Nakdong River Basin in Korea to evaluate the physico-chemical parameters (pH, dissolved oxygen, chemical oxygen demand, biological oxygen demand, total organic carbon) in water and total heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd, As) in surface sediments. The assessment of physico-chemical parameters indicates that river water and sediments in the study area were strongly impacted by industrial wastewater, irrigational effluents and domestic sewage. The overall average concentrations of metals in sediments were Cu (6.41 mg/kg), Cd (0.11 mg/kg), Pb (4.72 mg/kg), Zn (16.8 mg/kg), As (0.19 mg/kg), and the order of the concentrations was Zn > Cu > Pb > As > Cd. Geo-accumulation index (Igeo) indicates that most of samples fall at unpolluted to medium category, while contamination factor values fall at the medium to very high pollution zone. Pollution load index also suggests that all samples fall at progressive pollution sector. Multivariate statistical analysis and pollution index methods were helpful for the classification on the basis of the contamination sources and origin of heavy metals. In conclusion, this study clearly infers the fact that the cause of metal pollution in this region is mainly due to the effluents discharged from factories, agricultural fields and sewers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The quality of drinking water has always been a major health concern, especially in developing countries, where 80 % of the disease cases are attributed to inadequate sanitation and use of polluted water. The inaccessibility of potable water to large segment of a population in the rural communities is the major health concern in most part of developing countries. This study was designed to evaluate the physico-chemical and bacteriological qualities of drinking water of different sources in the study area. Methods: The study was conducted at Serbo town and selected kebeles around the same town in Kersa district of Jimma Zone, southwest Ethiopia. Socio-demographic characteristics of the study populations were gathered using structured and pre-tested questionnaires. Standard microbiological methods were employed for determination of bacterial load and detection of coliforms. Physico-chemical analyses [including total dissolved substances (TDS), total suspended substances (TSS), biological oxygen demand (BOD), nitrate and phosphate concentrations, turbidity and electrical conductivities] were conducted following guidelines of American Public Health Association and WHO. Correlations among measured parameters of water samples collected from different water sources were computed using SPSS software (version 20). Result: Only 18.1 % (43/237) of the study population had access to tap water in the study area. More than 50 % of the community relies on open field waste disposal. Members of the family Enterobacteriaceae, Bacillus and Pseudomonas were among dominant bacterial isolates in the water samples. All water samples collected from unprotected water sources were positive for total coliforms and fecal coliforms (FC). Accordingly, FC were detected in 80 % of the total samples with counts ranging between 0.67 and 266.67 CFU/100 ml although 66.67 % of tap water samples were negative for FC. The recorded temperature and pH ranged between 20.1-29.90 °C and 5.64-8.14, respectively. The lowest and highest mean TDS were 116 and 623 mg/l, respectively. Furthermore, the mean concentration of TSS ranged between 2.07 and 403.33 mg/l. Turbidity, electric conductivity, and nitrate concentration of the water samples ranged, respectively, between 0.01-65.4 NTU, 30.6-729 μS/cm, and below detection limit to 95.80 mg/l. In addition, the mean dissolved oxygen values were found to be between 1.62 and 10.71 mg/l; whereas BOD was within the range of 8-77 mg/l. In all water samples, the concentrations of zinc were within the WHO maximum permissible limits (3 mg/l) although the lead concentration in about 66.7 % of the samples exceeded the maximum permissible limit (0.01 mg/l). Conclusion: The present study has revealed that some of the bacteriological data and physico-chemical parameters of the different water sources had values beyond the maximum tolerable limits recommended by WHO. Thus, it calls for appropriate intervention, including awareness development work and improving the existing infrastructure in order to minimize the potential health problems of those communities currently realizing of the available water sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out in Narta and Orikumi Lagoon (Vlora Bay), to evaluate the environmental status and to extent the pollution level by different contamination sources in these areas. Physico-chemical parameters (pH, dissolved oxygen, TSS, TDS, temperature, salinity etc), nutrients (N-NO3- N-No2-, N-NH4+ and P-P043-) and heavy metal (Hg, Cu, Pb, Zn, Cr and Cd) content in water samples collected in Narta and Orikumi Lagoon were used for the assessment of the environmental situation of the lagoons. Samples were collected in ten sampling sites, five in each lagoon. A water sample collected in Vlora Bay was used as a comparative sample. Total dissolved metal concentrations were analyzed by graphite furnace AAS (Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu), flame system AAS (Zn) and CV-AAS (Hg) known as a very sensitive analytical methods. The trend of heavy metals content in water of the lagoons resulted as following: Zn>Cu>Cr>(Cd and/or Pb)>Hg. Nutrients (N-NO3- N-No2-, N-NH4+ and P-P043-) content was determined by spectrophotometric methods. The data matrix of analytical parameters was statistically treated with Descriptive Statistics and multivariate analysis by using MINITAB 17 software package. Based on the Cluster Analysis, the sampling stations were classified into 3 main clusters. Based on the results of physicochemical parameters, nutrients and heavy metals content in studied areas, it is shown that Narta and Orikumi Lagoon are characterized by generally oligotrophic conditions and are suitable for fish growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surface waters in Kosovo are predominately polluted, and it is evidential that domestic and industrial wastewaters treatment plants still don't exist in any of the cities in Kosovo. In this research work we have analyzed 67 elements in the water of Lumbardhi Peja. Results of some toxic elements are as: Cu (4.0 - 13.5 μg dm-3), Zn (7.1 - 34.1 μg dm-3), Pb (0.8 - 4.32 μg dm-3), Cd (0.15 - 0.07 μg dm-3), Mn (2.7 - 120 μg dm-3), As (0.18 - 0.71 μg dm-3), Cr (0.5 - 1.5 μg dm-3), Fe (30 - 760 μg dm-3), Ni (1.3 - 19.5 μg dm-3), Sb (0.05 - 0.1 μg dm-3), Al (79 - 418 μg dm-3). Also some physico-chemical parameters are determined: air temperature, water temperature, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total hardness, Cl-, SO4 2-, NO3 - and NO2 - . Results of some parameters and ecotoxic ions are as: Conductivity (216-399 μS cm−1), pH (8.2-8.58), NO2 - (0.015-0.045 mg dm-3), NO3 - (0.01-1.1 mg dm-3), Cl- (1.55-2.95 mg dm-3) and SO4 2- (4.2-9.2 mg dm-3). Results obtained by the box plot method showed the regions with determined anomalous element concentration values in the water of Lumbardhi Peja. Even that in Kosovo we don't have yet any legislative convent for allowed concentrations of toxic metals for natural water resources, the results from this study are a small contribution to gain a clear overview of the statement in this field of environmental quality assurance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The water quality of Umgeni River in KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa) was investigated from April 2011 to January 2012. Indicator bacterial populations, physico-chemical properties, heavy metal contaminants and the presence of coliphages were determined according to standard protocols. The results showed that all sampling points failed to comply with the set guidelines for turbidity, total coliform, faecal coliform and total heterotrophic counts. Salmonella spp., Shigella spp. and Vibrio cholerae were also detected in all the water samples. The somatic coliphages and F-RNA coliphages were detected more frequently in the lower reaches of the river during summer. Temperature, electrical conductivity and pH were found to have positive relationships with the microbial communities especially in the lower catchment area during spring and summer indicating the impacts of various anthropogenic activities in the surrounding areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial and temporal changes in the pH, electrical conductivity (EC), TDS, TSS, BOD, COD and concentration of toxic metals viz. cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) were assessed in the waste water contaminated with untreated or inadequately pretreated industrial effluents from pharmaceutical industries located in Selaqui area and sugar industry and distillery located in Doiwala area of Dehradun. Four effluent samples A, B, C, D collected from manufacturing and processing industries located in the study area and two ground water samples E1 & E2 contiguous to Selaqui industrial hub and Doiwala industrial stretch respectively, were analyzed using standard physico-chemical methods. In order to delimit the temporal changes in parameters, samples were collected in three batches at three consecutive seasons of a year. Analyses at STP condition revealed that pH values of ground water samples remained fairly unchanged at 7.01 + 0.14 & 6.98 + 0.04 for E1 & E2 respectively, for two regional variations and three seasonal variations. EC (mmho/cm) varied non-uniformly with highest value of 0.479 observed for sample A in batch 1 whereas lowest value of 0.122 recorded for sample D in batch 3. TDS in effluents of distillery and sugar industry were found to be 3-6 folds higher than the same for effluents from pharmaceutical industries across all seasons. BOD and COD values for the effluents of distillery and sugar industries were recorded unexpectedly higher than corresponding values in effluents from pharmaceutical industries in all the three batches. TSS was very high in the range of 1500 to 4500 mg/l in all the effluent samples except the ground water samples. Highest concentration of heavy metal detected was iron with concentration of 10.80 mg/l. Cr, Pb, Cd and Ni were found to be above the permissible limit recommended by WHO standards. A plausible analysis is made to interpret the wide range variation of the parameters in the light of spatial and temporal change aspects and necessary pretreatment measures to bring down the magnitude of contamination within consent level are suggested.

A study was conducted on physico-chemical parameters and heavy metal contents of water from the Karavasta Lagoon(40°56' N and 19°29' E). Karavasta Lagoon is one of the largest lagoons in the Mediterranean Seaand one of the most important economic and ecological areas in the southern part of Albania. The overall complex is composed of four lagoons, sand dunes, and a river mouth has a surface of 10000 ha. It is situated in the central part of western region, between Shkumbini River in the north and Semani River in the south, 40 km west of the city of Lushnja, by the Adriatic coast. The study aimed to determine (i) the water quality in the lagoon of Karavasta using physico-chemical parameters and the level of heavy metals, (2) its status to support living life in the aquatic ecosystem. Data on temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen were obtained in-situ using Hanna multi-parameters instruments. Surface water of the lagoon was analyzed for heavy metals: Pb, Cr, Cu, Cd, As. The results showed that water temperature varies depending on the seasons. The highest temperatures were in July from 26 to 28.6 °C depending on the sampling station. The results showed that water temperature varies depending on the seasons. Highest values of pH in the water of the lagoon are verified in December from 10.72 toi 1.98. The values of salinity in the lagoon of Karavasta are higher in Dajlani station SS1 ranging 42.31% in July to 40.83 %in December, depending from the connection with Adriatic Sea. Also it varies considerably from one area to another, and between seasons, depending on the degree of isolationThe heavy metals Cr, Pb, Cu in some stations are found to be close or higher than the values allowed by the EU and pose a potential health risk to humans and the aquatic life of the lagoon's ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Plant based medicines are used by the people across the globe and are the mainstay to provide the leads for therapeutic remedies. Since the antioxidant leads are available in plenty from natural source, the present study is to focus on the determination of effective combination of plant based extracts for antioxidant property by adopting bio guided assisted methods. Methods: Five medicinal plants commonly used in traditional and herbal formulations for various types of ailments were selected based on their efficacy on stress and anxiety. They are the roots of Withania somniferum (Solanaceae) and Hemidesmus indicus (Asclepiadaceae) fruits ofAegle marmelos (Rutaceae), Emblica officinalis (Euphorbiaceae) and aerial parts ofOcimum sanctum (Labiatae). All the samples were subjected to physico-chemical constant, pesticide content (HPLC method), aflatoxins (HPLC method), microbial load (I.P. 1996) and heavy metal content by atomic absorption spectroscopy, radioactive content (standard operating procedure) besides HPTLC quantification. Spray dried and lyophilized extracts were prepared and optimized and the proposed combinations were subjected to in vitro anti-oxidant activity by DPPH scavenging, lipid per oxidation, nitricoxide scavenging and superoxide dismutase activity methods. The IC50 concentration was derived by linear method and Pearson's coefficient regression technique to arrive at the best combination exhibiting anti-oxidant activity. The phyto chemical estimation was also performed as a prelude to the anti-oxidant study. Results: The diagnostic features of the selected medicinal plants complied with the official limits. Biology guided fractionation of the spray dried/ lyophilized extracts with significant IC50 values by linear regression has enabled to arrive for the best combination of the fractions suitable for anti-oxidant activity. Conclusion: The HPTLC quantification of the raw materials identified and documented may be of help to the industries for authentication and standardization of raw materials wherein batch to batch variation that occurs during manufacturing process can be minimized and avoided. The anti-oxidant activity of the bio guided combination of the extracts enables us to derive the effective polyherbal combination for the activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Pakistan large number of population is using surface and groundwater for drinking purposes. The contamination of these water bodies by toxic metals and providing safe drinking water to public is a big challenge for the government especially in areas where there is geological control on ground water. The present study was conducted to assess the drinking water quality of Islampur area, Swat, in the close vicinity of mélange zone. Forty samples were collected from different ground water sources such as tube wells, springs, dug well sand hand pumps. These samples were analyzed for physical and chemical parameters including heavy metals (Pb, Zn, Ni and Cr).The results were compared with international standards, which show that most of the physico-chemical parameters such as total suspended solids, pH, salinity, total dissolved solids, chloride, sodium, potassium and zinc are within the permissible limits. Whereas electrical conductivity, alkalinity, hardness, lead, chromium, nickel, calcium and magnesium were above their permissible limit. In this respect the drinking water quality of the Islampur area, district Swat is unsafe for drinking purposes. This study indicates that the heavy metal contamination in the study area could be attributed to the mélange zone rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted between May 2010 and January 2011 in the Butrinti Lagoon, an important ecological and economical area in the south of Albania. The study aimed to determine (i) the water quality in the lagoon of Butrint using physico-chemical parameters and level of heavy metals, (2) its status to support living life in the aquatic ecosystem. Data on temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen were obtained in-situ using multiparameter portable instrument. Surface and bottom water of the lagoon were analyzed for heavy metals: Pb, Cr, Cu, Cd, Hg. The results showed that water temperature varies depending on the seasons. The highest temperatures were in August from 26 to 27.3 0C depending on the sampling station. pH in the water of the lagoon is basic, its values ranged from 8.12 to 8.49, and were optimal for the production of mussels. The values of salinity in the lagoon of Butrint are smaller than those of the Ionian sea influenced by rivers Bistrica, Pavlo and groundwater resources. Lower values of DO in the depth of the lagoon were recorded in August at stations SS2 (1.4 mg L-1) and SS5 (1.9 mg L-1), and therefore a damage was noticed in the growth of mussels in the lagoon. The heavy metals Cr, Pb, in some stations are found in higher levels than the values allowed by the EU and pose a potential health risk to humans and the aquatic life of the lagoon's ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was aimed to assess the effect of cadmium chloride on some biochemical parameters and the potential of cadmium uptake of Eichhornia crassipes. The effects of increasing concentrations of cadmium chloride on growth characteristics of E. crassipes including root length, leaf area and biomass production was studied. The root growth of E. crassipes was severely affected at all concentrations of cadmium in the trays where plants were grown and in general it was serially increased. Similar trend was observed in average leaf area with 11.28 cm2 on 12th day in control while with only 7.05 cm2 at 75 ppm concentration. Chlorophyll contents were also observed to be decreased serially with the increasing concentrations of CdCl2. The lowest total chlorophylls were 118.56 mg/100g in comparison with 239.09 mg/100g in control set at the end of treatment. Polyphenol and proline contents were increased indicating the stress conditions due to toxicity of cadmium. Highest polyphenol and proline were 303.27 mg/100g and 8.14 mg/100g respectively at 50 ppm set of the treatment. Moreover, Electrical conductivity and total dissolved solids content of the various dilutions were decreased remarkably after 12 days of treatment. pH of the solution tend to become neutral while increase in turbidity might be related with root exudates and dead organics by the plants growing in the tray whereas decrease in hardness, acidity, sodium and potassium content was observed with increase in concentration. Values for BOD and COD were slightly increased at the end of treatment. Estimation of bioconcentration factor is very much important. It indicates that the species is more favourable to tolerate higher concentrations of heavy metals and also helps a lot in decontamination of the land, water etc. In this study increasing concentration of cadmium showed higher accumulation capacities and may be better treatment option for cadmium by means of phytoremediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation aims to assess the phytoremediation potential of six aquatic macrophytes, viz. Eichhornia crassipes, Hydrilla verticillata, Jussiaea repens, Lemna minor, Pistia stratiotes and Trapa natans grown in paper mill effluent of JK Paper mill of Rayagada, Orissa, for remediation of heavy metals. The experiment was designed in pot culture experiments. Assessment of physico-chemical parameters of paper mill effluent showed significant decrease in pH, conductivity, total dissolved solids, total suspended solids, chlorine, sulphur, biological and chemical oxygen demand after growth of macrophytes for 20 days. Phytoremediation ability of these aquatic macrophytic species for copper (Cu) and mercury (Hg) was indicated by assessing the decrease in the levels of heavy metals from effluent water. Maximum reduction (66.5 %) in Hg content of untreated paper mill effluent was observed using L. minor followed by T. natans (64.8 %). L. minor showed highest reduction (71.4 %) of Cu content from effluent water followed by E. crassipes (63.6 %). Phytoextraction potential of L. minor was remarkable for Hg and Cu, and bioaccumulation was evident from bioconcentration factor values, i.e. 0.59 and 0.70, respectively. The present phytoremediation approach was considered more effective than conventional chemical treatment method for removing toxic contaminants from paper mill effluent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]