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This research aimed to investigate the effect of geological and geomorphological factors on the water quality of Gotvand Dam in Iran. Given the role of geomorphological parameters in water quality, the water quality indices were analyzed in the Excel and Chemistry applications. Water quality was evaluated by analyzing water samples obtained from the Statistical Data Center of Water and Power Organization of Khuzestan, and the total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), and pH of water were measured using the Mann-Kendall test. Then the effect of geomorphological factors on the physicochemical properties of the Karun River was assessed. The qualitative variables were pH, EC, and TDS in the statistical period of 2006–2021. The results of the Mann-Kendall test showed an insignificant decreasing trend in the TDS series in the Gotvand station. Meanwhile, August had a significant increasing trend in TDS, and considering the calculated Sen's slope, this parameter increased by 35% in the last 15 years (2006–2021). Like TDS, EC had both increasing and decreasing trends of changes. On the monthly scale, pH had a significant decreasing trend, meaning that the water is acidified, which severely affects the downstream fields and reservoirs. In the Gotvand station, the trend of changes in TDS and EC increased in 11 and 12 months of the year, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rosa damascena Mill. is an important aromatic plant for the commercial production of rose oil and rose water. Its hydrosol is known in Iran as Golab (rose water) and has applications in religious ceremonies, foods, and pharmaceuticals. The increase in market demand has led to the production of inferior products. The aim of this study was to characterize the chemical composition of 22 rose water samples were purchased from the Isfahan market in October 2022 in aqueous phase and its organic extract and also methanol and ethanol content of these rose water samples by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results were used to evaluate the quality of rose water samples and detection of artificial essence use. Methanol and ethanol levels in the tested samples were 5-120 and 20-835 mg/kg. Some samples unusually had no ethanol and methanol. Major constituents of the extracted essence were phenyl ethyl alcohol, ß-linalool, eugenol, eugenol methyl ether, geraniol, a-terpineol, citronellol, eugenol methyl ether, terpin hydrate, isopulegol, benzyl alcohol and nerol. These findings show that in order to determine whether rose water samples are real or fake, it is necessary to examine the samples in terms of chemical composition both in the aqueous phase of rose water and in the extracted essential oil as well as in the amount of ethanol and methanol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive study was made to measure the radon concentration in bottled water available in Iran market. The 222Rn concentration in 70 bottled water samples were measured by the sniffing mode technique and RTM 1688-2 (SARAD, Germany) in immediate sampling time and 3 months later for determination of radon decay. The measured radon concentration ranged from 0.003 to 0.618 Bq L−1 in bottled water samples, which were much lower than the recommended value for radon in drinking water by WHO (100 Bq L−1) and United states environmental protection agency (USEPA) (11.1 Bq L−1). The annual effective dose of 222Rn due to ingestion bottled water was also evaluated in this research. The mean annual effective dose due to ingestion of radon in bottled water for adults, children, and infants were estimated to vary from 5.30 × 10−4 mSv−1, 4.90 × 10−4 mSv−1, and 2.15 × 10−4 mSv−1, respectively. Overall, this study indicated that the Iranian people receive no significant radiological risk due to exposure to radon concentration in bottled water brands common consumed in Iranian market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: This research tries to analyze the spatial distribution and trend of arsenic level changes in the underground water resources of the Sirjan basin, and also to evaluate and analyze the factors affecting the concentration of this element in these water resources. Materials and Methods: Sampling of underground water sources in the study area was done by systematic-random method and arsenic concentration was done by ICP)MS method in the laboratory. Also, to evaluate the factors affecting the concentration of arsenic in the underground water resources of Sirjan bathe sin, the method of land systems analysis was used. Results: The results of the research show that the amount of arsenic in all samples is higher than the Guidelines provided by the World Health Organization so the amount of this element in the underground water sources of the study area varies between 30 and 390 µg/L. Samples No. 9, 13, and 16, which are located in the deepest parts of the basin, have the highest amount of arsenic. For this reason, the durability of water in this part of the basin increases. This reduces the intensity of the current. As a result, according to the cumulative effect law, this process can lead to an increase in arsenic concentration. Conclusion: The evaluation of changes in the concentration of arsenic in the underground water resources of the study area indicates that the concentration of this element had a high increasing trend. According to the results, the location of the studied area in the center of hydrothermal and geothermal processes (copper mineralization belt in Iran), the cumulative effect, and the effect of pH on the absorption and desorption of arsenic are among the most important factors affecting the increase of arsenic in the underground water resources of Sirjan Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main route of fluoride uptake is drinking water. Fluoride absorption in the acceptable range (0.5–1.5 mg L−1) is suitable for the body, but its too much consumption can have irreversible health effects. To compare fluoride concentration with the WHO guidelines, 112 water samples were taken from groundwater aquifers in 22 villages of Garmsar County, the central part of Iran, during 2018 to 2019. Fluoride concentration was measured by the SPANDS method and its non-carcinogenic impacts were calculated using EDI and HQ. The statistical population was divided into four categories of infant, children, teenagers, and adults. Linear regression and Spearman rank correlation coefficient tests were used to investigate the relationships between the well's depth and fluoride concentration in the water samples. The annual mean concentrations of fluoride in 2018 and 2019 were 0.75 and 0.64 mg L−1and, the fluoride mean concentration in the samples classifying the cold and hot seasons of the studied years was 0.709 and 0.689 mg L−1, respectively. The amount of fluoride in 27% of the samples in both years was less than the acceptable minimum (0.5 mg L−1). Also, 11% of the samples in 2018 (6 samples) had fluoride levels higher than 1.5 mg L−1. The HQ showed that the children were vulnerable; teenagers and adults were in the next ranks, respectively. Statistical tests showed a reverse and significant correlation (R2 = – 0.02, β < 0.0001) between well depth and fluoride content. The border between the usefulness/harmfulness of fluoride is very narrow and requires extensive studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Due to the opportunism character of Acanthamoeba, the presence of this parasite in the thermal water of recreational baths and hospital environments can be a risk to the health of staff, patients and others. The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution of potentially pathogenic Acanthamoeba genotypes isolated from the hospital environment and the thermal water of recreational baths in Markazi Province, central Iran. Methods: Overall, 180 samples including thermal water from recreational baths in Mahallat City and dust, soil and water from different hospitals of Arak, Farahan and Komijan cities, central Iran were collected. The presence of Acanthamoeba was investigated using microscopic examination and molecular methods. The PCR and sequencing was performed based on a specific 18S fragment of ribosomal DNA. Results: Based on the microscopic survey, totally 134 positive samples were detected including 35% in thermal water samples and 44.7% in hospital samples. In molecular analysis, 53.5% of the samples were identified as Acanthamoeba and 46.7% as Protacanthamoeba bohemica. The genotypes were detected as T4 (33.3%), T2 (10%), T11 (6.7%), and T5 (3.3%). Conclusion: The T4 was the most common genotype found in hospitals sampling sites while the T2 genotype and P. bohemica were detected in thermal water sampling sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Different genotypes of Acanthamoeba have been abundantly isolated in environmental samples such as water, soil, and dust, as well as in different hospital departments and eyewash stations. This protozoan is a potential hazard for immunocompromised patients and contact lens wearers. The aim of the present study was isolation and genotyping of environmental and corneal isolates of Acanthamoeba in Hamadan, west of Iran. Methods: During 2018-2020, a total of 104 environmental samples including, water, soil, and dust and 16 corneal scraping samples were collected and investigated for the presence of Acanthamoeba using morphological and molecular identification tools. Genotypes were determined using sequence analysis of the diagnostic fragment 3 (DF3) from Acanthamoeba-specific amplimer S1 (ASA.S1) gene. Phylogenetic tree was constructed with the MEGA7 software using Neighbor-Joining method. Results: The presence of Acanthamoeba spp. was determined in 87.5% of water, 53.1% of soil, and 25% of dust samples. From 30 dust samples collected from eight wards of three hospitals, 7 (23.3%) were contaminated with Acanthamoeba. Sequencing analysis of environmental samples revealed that the T4 genotype was the most prevalent (92.6%) one. Genotypes T2 (1.9%), T2/T6 (1.9%), and mixed T4 and T2/T6 (3.7%) were also identified in environmental samples. Acanthamoeba was seen in none of the examined corneal scraping samples from patients with suspected keratitis. Conclusion: The widespread occurrence of this potentially pathogenic amoeba in most hospital wards and environmental resources and areas of the region highlights a strong need to increase awareness regarding this ubiquitous amoeba among susceptible individuals, such as immunocompromised patients and contact lens wearers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to potentially hazardous trace elements (PHTEs) through drinking water consumption can endanger the health of the consumer. In this study, the concentration of Aluminium (Al), Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu) and Manganese (Mn) among 288 water samples were collected (March to February 2016) from water distribution networks of Ilam city was measured using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) instrument and the health risk was estimated using the Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) method. The rank order of PHTEs in the drinking water was Cu (0.200 ± 0.200 mg/l)> Fe (0.096 ± 0.094 mg/l)> Al (0.040 ± 0.060 mg/l) > Mn (0.017 ± 0.020 mg/l).The rank order of PHTEs based on the non-carcinogenic risk for the adult consumers were Cu (0.250) > Mn (0.0069) > Fe (0.0067) >Al (0.0027) while the corresponding values for children wereCu (0.310) > Mn (0.0087) > Fe (0.0084) >Al (0.0034).The percentile 95% total target hazard quotient (TTHQ) correlated with the investigated PHTEs in the children and adults were equal to 0.3205 and 0.2600, respectively. Therefore, the exposed population is at the acceptable non-carcinogenic risk due to the relatively low concentration of PHTEs in tap drinking water in Ilam city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the cadmium, lead, and zinc levels in the blood and shell of Caspian pond turtles (Mauremys caspica) were investigated at five stations in Zarivar International Wetland in Kurdistan Province. All specimens were released at their capture locations within 2 h of capture. Water samples were collected at each station. Heavy metal concentrations were determined using an atomic absorption spectrometer. The mean cadmium, lead, and zinc concentrations were 0.04, 32.10, and 11.45 mg/l in blood samples; 1.82, 16.91, and 89.22 mg/l in shell samples; 0.005, 1.30, and 0.07 mg/l in water samples, respectively. In this study, the highest metal adsorption was zinc and was observed in shell. According to the results of this study, the shell of the Caspian Pond Turtle can be used to estimate the concentration of heavy metals. Our results suggest that Caspian pond turtle can be used as a biological indicator to estimate heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acanthamoeba, a free-living and opportunistic protozoan parasite, is a causative agent of severe human infections of the cornea and brain. The present study evaluated the distribution and genotyping of Acanthamoeba spp. in water and soil of recreational places in various areas in Guilan province in northern Iran. Eighty water and 20 soil samples were collected from the study area. Water samples were vacuum filtered through a 0.45 μm pore-size membrane filter. Soil samples were washed with sterile distilled water, and washings were similarly filtered, as mentioned for water samples. The filtered material was cultured on non-nutrient agar plates seeded with heat-killed Escherichia coli. Molecular analysis was performed by PCR and sequencing using specific primers for Acanthamoeba. Finally, 26 isolates were successfully sequenced. According to culture and PCR methods, 54% of water and 100% of soil samples were contaminated with Acanthamoeba. Based on the sequencing data, genotypes T4 (47%), T5 (35.29%), T3 (11.76%), and T11 (5.88%) were identified in water samples. Genotypes T4 (66.6%), T5 (22.2%) and T15 (11.1%) were identified in water samples. Most isolates might present a potential health hazard for humans in this region. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive survey of water and soil of recreational areas in northern Iran and the first report on identifying genotype T15 from soil sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the presence of free-living amoebae (FLAs) in various water sources has been reported, few studies have been surveyed on their abundance in medical-unit and dental-unit water samples. The current study aimed to identify morphological and molecular characteristics of FLA isolates in the water samples of the dental unit in Iran. A total of 232 water samples were collected from 17 dental units. Then, filtration and cultivation were conducted on a non-nutrient agar (NNA) medium. Also, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay and sequencing were performed by using the genus/species-specific primers plus a common primer set on positive samples. One hundred and sixty-six samples were positive for FLA by the microscopic method, whereas 114 samples were positive by the molecular method with a common primer set. Considering the PCR assay with genus/species-specific primers, 23.27% (54/232) samples were identified as Acanthamoeba spp. (belonging to T4 genotype), 36.63% (85/232) as Vermamoeba vermiformis, and 1.72% (4/232) as Vahlkampfiidae family (Naegleria lovaniensis). These results highlight a need to improve filtration systems in dental units and periodic screenings for FLA in dental-unit water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to detect free-living amoeba (FLA) in the water resources of Arak, Iran using molecular tools. A total of 154 samples were collected from different water supplies. Molecular analyses, sequencing, and phylogenetic study were conducted to confirm the species and genotypes of FLA. Fisher exact test was used to determine the significance. Of 154 water samples, 19 (12.3%) samples were tested positive for FLA. Three genotypes of Acanthamoeba including T4, subtype D, and T5 were identified among the isolates. The pathogenicity assay showed that the isolate of Acanthamoeba in drinking water was highly pathogenic. Three species of Naegleria, including N. australiensis, N. pagei, and N. gruberi were found among the samples. Six isolates of Vermamoeba were identified as V. vermiformis. Meanwhile, three other species including Vannella sp., Vahlkampfia avara, and Stenamoeba polymorpha were also recovered from the water samples. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between the various water resources contaminated with FLA. This is the first study to reveal the presence of S. polymorpha in water sources in Iran. According to the findings of the present study, health officials should be beware of potential public health impacts of FLA in water resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the concentrations of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in inlet and outlet of treatment plant of Ahvaz city. For this purpose, the concentrations of six OCPs, including chlordane, dieldrin, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, heptachlor, lindane, and endrin were measured at three different sites during, 12 months. A gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) device was applied for the analysis and determination of the target pesticides in the water samples. Non-carcinogenic risk analysis showed that total hazard index was below the acceptable limit and there was no danger to the residents of the area, and the carcinogenic risk was within the acceptable range for both the groups of children and adults. The results implied that the concentrations of the studied pesticides decreased after treatment process. The concentrations of the pesticides were lower than the standard level in all seasons. In the chlorination units (water treatment plants No. 1 and 2) of the treatment plant, the concentrations of OCPs were decreased in winter, while the concentration of these compounds in river water was quite high in summer. The mean total concentration of OCPs in the water samples in August, September, October, November, December, January, February, March, April, May, June, and July were 0.3, 0.073, 0.046, 0.033,0.01, 0.03, 0.025, 0.026, 0.025, 0.03, 0.21, and 0.04 µg/L, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among predatory bacteria, Bdellovibrio and Like Organisms (BALOs) have a high potential for application as biocontrol agents. The objective of this study was to isolate and characterize native BALO strains from different water and soil samples in Iran. Nineteen BALO strains were obtained from the samples using Escherichia coli as prey. Analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that Na2, Tal2, Mm1, and Ja2 strains belong to a different species than B. bacteriovorus HD100 as a type strain. Also, Z2, B2, Ch2, Kan1, and Pj strains could be separate from the Bdellovibrio genera. The strains showed different host range and predation efficiency when they were tested with 17 different Gram-negative bacteria subsequently. The prey range of six strains including Sar, Pj, Kan1, C1, Z2, and Ch2 was limited to only E. coli. The most versatile predators were strains Zar3 and Kash2 that exhibited almost the same prey range as type strain HD100. They are also placed close to each other in the phylogenetic tree. The host range of strain Na2 was narrow and attacked only Ralstonia solanacearum, which is less susceptible to predation by the other strains. Native BALOs from water and soils in Iran were isolated, forming a group of potential biocontrol agents adapted to local conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free-living amoebas (FLAs) can cause neurological and ocular complications in humans. Water supplies play a critical role in transmitting FLAs to humans. The aim of the present study was to investigate the presence of FLAs in various aquatic sources including drinking water, stagnant water, and surface water in Alborz province, northern Iran, using morphological and molecular techniques. A total of 70 water samples were collected from 34 drinking waters, 23 surface waters, and 13 stagnant waters. Filtration and cultivation were employed to isolate FLAs. PCR assay was applied by using the genus-specific primers on positive samples. Pathogenicity tests (osmo-and thermo-tolerance properties) were performed for Acanthamoeba spp., positive sample. Considering the morphological criteria, four positive samples of Acanthamoeba sp., three Vermamoeba sp., two mixed Vermamoeba sp. with Vahlkamfiids, and one mixed Acanthamoeba sp. with Vahlkamfiids were isolated. Five Acanthamoeba sp. isolates were amplified using the JDP primer pairs. Among them, two genotypes, T4 (three isolates) and T5 (two isolates) corresponding to A. lenticulata, were identified. Four V. vermiformis samples were confirmed using the sequencing. This study highlighted the occurrence of potentially pathogenic waterborne FLAs in water habitats associated with high human activity. The results of such research on the prevalence of FLAs, as a human hazard, should be communicated to health policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protection of rivers’ water quality as the most accessible source of the water supply has always been considered. In this paper, self-purification and the pollution decay coefficient values of Talar River, IRAN were studied based on field measurement of DO, BOD, pH, EC, Nitrate, Phosphate, and Temperature, in four seasons of the year 2018, in tandem with the river simulation and its calibration using QUAL2Kw model and the Streeter-Phelps method. In addition to the modeling and analysis results, the measured laboratory data values of the river water samples are also presented. Based on the results, the DO variations were ranged from 5.15 in summer to 7.47 mg/l in spring and BOD variations ranged from 1.88 in fall to 7.9 mg/l in summer. Also, according to the Streeter-Phelps method the decay coefficient values varied from 1.57 (1/day) in spring to 9.63 (1/day) in fall. The values of the Talar River decay coefficient also varied from 2 in fall to 7.7 (1/day) in summer involving the QUAL2Kw model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acanthamoeba spp. is a free-living amoeba that can cause major infections in humans, including keratitis and granulomatous encephalitis. Thus, water resources play an important role in transmitting Acanthamoeba spp. infection to humans. The purpose of this study was to investigate the presence of Acanthamoeba spp. in public swimming pools from three cities of Kerman Province, southeastern Iran. Eighty water samples of 20 public indoor swimming pools were taken from Kerman, Jiroft, and Kahnauj cities. Water temperature (°C), pH, and free chlorine concentration (ppm) were measured. Filtration and cultivation were applied on non-nutrient agar medium. The polymerase chain reaction was applied by using the genus-specific primers (JDP1 and JDP2) on positive samples; these primers can amplify the 423-551 bp fragment. Eighteen of the 20 swimming pools (including 32/80; 40% samples) were contaminated with Acanthamoeba spp. All swimming pools of Jiroft and Kahnauj and 88.2% of swimming pools in Kerman were contaminated. As such, all 32 Acanthamoeba isolates were amplified using the JDP primer pairs. Two genotypes, T3 and T4, were also identified. The present research is the first to report Acanthamoeba spp. in public swimming pools from Kerman Province. Due to high occurrence of this protozoan, it is recommended to use warning signs around swimming pools to create awareness of this infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determination of the water quality monitoring network (WQMN) is a vital stage for surveying ecosystem health. Studies have been done in determining the optimal number and location of sampling points, but seasonality of water quality, especially for heavy metals, has been rarely studied. For the first time, this study proposes a framework to determine the optimal location of sampling points to monitor lead (Pb). This study was conducted for the Karoun River, located in southwestern Iran. First, hydraulic characteristics of the river were simulated by implementing of MIKE11 software as well as water quality(variation of Pb concentration). Nash‑Sutcliffe coefficient were 0.91 and 0.91 for discharge calibration and validation, respectively. Second, 16 potential sampling points were proposed using modified Sanders' approach considering seasonality. For a better accuracy in the WQMN layout and a more efficient site selection of sampling points, a 1-km buffer is stretched along the river for determining non-point source pollution sources and prioritizing candidate points. This leads to considering different land uses in the study area, while GIS software has been employed. Seasonal changes and land use have a significant impact on the location of optimal sampling points. The presented framework can be used to improve water quality and support watershed protection efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical and microbial quality of bottled water in Iran and to calculate the water quality index (WQI). Materials and Methods: Different brands of bottled water (4 samples from 71 brands) were randomly collected from the market. Chemical and microbial characteristics of the samples were examined and determined. Finally, the calculations related to the WQI index were performed and the water samples were classified as excellent, good, poor, very poor and unsuitable. Results: None of the samples exhibited concentration of heavy metals beyond Iranian water standards, and the concentration of sulfate (SO4), chloride (Cl) and fluoride (F) did not exceed international standards. However, in some samples, nitrite (NO2) and nitrate (NO3) concentrations were higher than recommended standards. With Regard to other water quality parameters, 8% to 89% of the samples exhibited concentration higher than the values provided on the water bottle label. 5 species of different bacteria were found in 15 water samples. According to the WQI index, about 63% of the samples were of excellent quality. Also, the water quality of 34% and 3% of the samples fell in good and poor quality categories, respectively. None of the bottled water samples was of very poor quality. Conclusion: The quality of bottled water investigated in this study was generally suitable, but due to the wide range of bottled water in Iran based on brand and seasons, continuous evaluation of water treatment methods in companies and careful monitoring of chemical and microbial quality of bottled water in all seasons is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rivers are one of the most valuable sources of water for drinking, agricultural, and industrial use. In the presented study, water samples collected from different rivers of HablehRood from October Within 23, 2009, to the end of September 2014, were analyzed to assess qualitative analysis and suitability for domestic and irrigation usage. The electrical conductivity (EC) of the river water was within the range of 750–5000 μmoh/cm, sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) Classification indicated that all samples were excellent and good range, sodium percentage (Na %) 20–80%, residual sodium carbonate (RSC) < 1.25 and Wilcox diagram were class 3–4. However, the cation chemistry indicated that out of 73 water samples, average samples showed a dominant sequence of > Na + Mg 2 + > Ca 2 + and Cl - > SO 4 2 - > HCO 3 - . The water quality showed high EC and total dissolved solids (TDS) in all water samples, which reduce quality for livestock and drinking because of high TDS levels. Still, according to the Wilcox diagram is suitable for agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentration of total dissolved mercury (HgT) in surface and groundwater resources in the coastal parts of Urmia aquifer (NW of Iran) was investigated to identify the possible sources and sinks of mercury and the geochemical mechanisms controlling its mobilization. The distribution of water samples on the Piper diagram demonstrates that most samples have the Ca-Mg-HCO3 facies. From 62 water samples collected in this area, one sample contained HgT concentrations exceeding the maximum contaminant level recommended by the WHO (6 μg/L). The principal component analysis (PCA) produced five principal components. The positive moderate correlation of HgT with EC, Cl, K, Mg, and Na indicated that the weathering of geological formations was one of the main sources of mercury in groundwater samples. Position of water samples in Eh-pH regions where microorganisms involved in mercury methylation and mineralization were potentially active demonstrated that the aquifer had undergone sulfate reduction and had reached the final stage of the terminal electron accepting process (TEAP) sequence in the methane production processes which are limited to only 37% of the water samples that have anaerobic conditions. Some Hg-bearing species are in nonequilibrium geochemical conditions. The supersaturation of water samples with magnetite and goethite indicated that these Fe-bearing minerals could act as the strong reducing agents for the reduction of Hg(II) to Hg(0). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermophilic bacteria have attracted great attention due to their ability to produce thermostable enzymes. The aim of this study was the isolation and characterization of thermophilic bacteria from Gavmesh Goli hot spring in Sareyn, North West of Iran. Of 10 water samples collected, 36 thermophilic bacteria were obtained. The thermophilic bacteria were tested for their ability to produce hydrolase enzymes. All the isolates were potentially protease producers. Lipase, DNase, and amylase activities were confirmed in 34 (94.4%), 8 (22.2%), and 3 (8.3%) isolates, respectively. Five isolates with higher levels of enzyme activity were selected for further studies. Morphological, biochemical, and molecular analysis by 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that four isolates (DH15, DH16, DH20, and DH29) could be identified as Thermomonas hydrothermalis and one (PA10) Bacillus altitudinis. The protease produced by these isolates was optimally active at 50–55 °C, pH 8–8.5, and 0–0.5 M NaCl. In this first time study, we isolated T. hydrothermalis and B. altitudinis from Iranian hot springs and demonstrated the characteristics of T. hydrothermalis protease. Accordingly, due to the valuable potential of these bacteria such as the production of protease with high temperature and pH stability, these isolates can be introduced as promising candidates for industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free-living amoeba (FLA), including Acanthamoeba and Naegleria are facultative parasites in humans. The amoeba have widespread distribution in various water sources. The aim of this study was isolation and molecular identification of Acanthamoeba and Naegleria isolated from swimming pools and also hot and cold tub waters in Qazvin province. The samples (166 water samples) were cultured to isolate and identify positive specimens. PCR (polymerase chain reaction) amplification, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were conducted to confirm the isolated species and genotypes of amoeba. According to morphological characterizations, 18.6% of specimens were identified as FLA, which in 71% were Acanthamoeba by PCR method. Molecular analysis revealed that 36.3%, 18.1% and 4.5% of Acanthamoeba specimens were identified as T3, T4 and T11 Acanthamoeba genotypes, respectively. Protacanthamoeba bohemica (27.2%) and Acanthamoeba sp. (4.5%) were found among the specimens. The results of osmo-tolerance and thermo-tolerance assays demonstrated that 50% of T3 and 25% of T4 genotypes of Acanthamoeba were highly pathogenic parasites. The molecular approach showed the presence of Naegleria lovaniensis (9%) in hot tub water of swimming pools. This study demonstrated that the swimming pools and hot tub water in Qazvin province were contaminated with Acanthamoeba and Naegleria species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acanthamoeba is a genus of the free-living amoeba that is widespread in the environment and is a causative agent of opportunistic infections in human. This study aimed to investigate the existence and genotyping of Acanthamoeba species in hemodialysis units in Iran. Methods: In the present study, forty water samples of hydraulic systems and twenty dust samples were collected from two hemodialysis units in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran. The samples were cultivated on non-nutrient agar and genotyping was performed by targeting the 18S rRNA gene. Results: Both morphology and molecular analyses showed that 17.5% (7/40) of water samples and 50% (10/20) of dust samples were positive for Acanthamoeba spp. The sequencing analysis of these isolates was found to be T3, T4 and T5 genotypes. Discussion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first investigation to identify of Acanthamoeba species in hydraulic system of hemodialysis units in Iran. High contamination of hemodialysis units with virulent T4 genotype of Acanthamoeba may poses a risk for biofilm formation. Our results support urgent need to improve filtration methods in dialysis units and monitoring hemodialysis patients for Acanthamoeba infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to explore the research trends and hotspots related to the treatment of heavy metals in wastewater by graphene and its composites, this study collected information on 511 publications from the Science Citation Index-Expanded (SCIE) and conducted a quantitative and visual analysis. The article on the adsorption of heavy metals in wastewater by graphene and its composites first appeared in 2006 and continued to grow since 2011. It broke through 100 articles for the first time in 2016 and the overall trend is on the rise. The 511 articles were published in 185 journals, of which RSC Advances is the most dynamic journal, and Journal of Materials Chemistry A is the most authoritative journal. Asian authors published about 87.14% of papers, and China, Iran, and India played a leading role compared with other countries. The University of Chinese Academy of Sciences is the largest research institution for the adsorption of heavy metals in wastewater by graphene and its composites. Hot keywords are "heavy metal removal," "water sample," "recent advance," "reusable adsorbent," "graphene-based material," and "composite nanosheet." Combined with keywords and cluster analysis, the chemical modification of graphene oxide has become a hot research direction for graphene materials to remove heavy metals from wastewater. Among them, MnFe2O4-graphene composite is a hot spot for graphene modification. In general, HNO3, HCl, and EDTA are desorption reagents for graphene and its composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bottled water is common in most countries in the world. According to high consumption and widely consumers from children to older adults safety of it is very important. Bromate (BrO3) is one of the most important contaminants in bottled water which national and international standards have set permissible level (10 µg/L). In this study, 168 samples of bottled water (mineral and drinking based on Iranian national standard classification) from Iran's market were collected and analyzed for bromate content. Ion chromatography with conductivity detector was applied for chemical analysis. 23.8 % of samples had bromate content upper than allowable level. For mineral water 23 samples and for drinking water 17 samples had bromate as 37.04 ± 18.62 µg/L and 33.58 ± 15.12 µg/L, respectively. According to the origin of bottled waters, their bromide content and other related conditions, it is necessary for health authorized organizations to routinely control and also awareness of consumers for hazards of bromate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract of full study in order to determine appropriate WQM networks. • Water quality sampling point design for countries with limited financial resources. • Identified new potential pollution by analytic network process (ANP). • A combination of hierarchy value and Fuzzy theory to prioritize sampling points. • Enhancing water quality monitoring network for current and future development. In order to rationalize a surface water quality monitoring network (WQMN), it is critical to appropriately design surface water quality sampling locations. This is due to high installation, operational, and maintenance costs for each sampling representative of the whole water system conditions. The main objective of this study was to propose an integrated method to determine the most appropriate sampling points in the Khoy watershed northwest of Iran, where financial resources and water quality data are limited. Multi criteria evaluation method including analytic network process (ANP) and Fuzzy logic were incorporated in River Mixing Length (RML) procedure in order to identify exact locations of sampling points. Based on RML procedure, 15 candidate sampling points were identified to suitably select sampling points based on budget deficiency. Relative weights for 12 criteria and 10 sub-criteria related to non-point sources and surficial rocks as well as criteria of topography were then calculated by the ANP method. According to the obtained results, a new total potential pollution score (TPPS) was presented to prioritize 15 candidate sampling points. Then, the values of TPPS were classified and fuzzified to distinguish real differences between scores. Based on current monitoring stations and budget deficiency, the hierarchy value, and Fuzzy rank, six points are proposed as the most appropriate locations for surface water quality monitoring. Furthermore, four points are identified as the second most appropriate for enhancing a robust WQMN in the study area in order for an expansion plan in the future. The results of this study should be valuable for water quality monitoring agencies looking for an efficient approach for selecting exact sampling locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High and low levels of fluoride in drinking waters have been considered as a major public health issue in recent years. This cross-sectional study was conducted over five consecutive years (from 2012 to 2016) in the water distribution network of Mashhad city, Iran with the objectives of determining levels of fluoride and to perform health risk assessment among residents in the study area. Water samples were taken from 30 stations and were analyzed using UV-visible spectrophotometer. The mean annual concentrations of fluoride in all stations during five years of consecutive study were lower than the respective maximum permissible limits (1.5 mg/L) in water as regulated by the WHO. The human health risk assessment was performed by calculating the chronic daily intake and hazard quotient (HQ) of fluoride through human oral intake for adults (men and women) and children for each year during a five-year study. Health risk analysis in this study presented that the non-carcinogenic risk associated with fluoride exposure through drinking water in Mashhad was mostly acceptable because the mean HQ values of fluoride were lower than 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Francisella tularensis has a wide distribution in northern hemisphere of the world. Up to now, there was little information about the Francisella spp. situation in the environmental samples in Iran. In this study we aimed to determine the prevalence of Francisella spp. in the environmental samples in northwest of Iran. Materials and Methods: A total of 237 natural water samples from ponds, rivers, lakes, springs and other surface waters from north western provinces of Iran (Kurdistan and Western Azerbaijan) were collected from September to November 2015. All samples were cultured for Francisella and other bacterial species and Real Time TaqMan PCR was performed on the concentrated and DNA extracted samples. For detection of the presence of bacterial DNA in the samples, two different targets in the genome of Francisella, ISFtu2 and fopA were used. Results: Among the tested surface water samples, 40 (17.09%; 95% CI: 12.67–22.33%) and 12 (5.13%; 95%CI: 2.81–8.56%) samples were positive for ISFtu2 and fopA respectively. None of them was positive in culture. Conclusion: The prevalence of Francisella spp. in the environmental samples in the west of Iran is high and it is comparable with Turkey, Iran's neighboring country. Use of higher copy number genes or IS like ISFtu2 could improve the detection of this organism in the environmental samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halophiles produce stable enzymes under extreme conditions. The scant information about chitinolytic haloarchaea led us to conduct the present study in order to isolate and screen native halophilic archaea with chitinolytic activity and to optimize the enzyme production conditions. Among 500 haloarchaeal strains isolated from water samples from different hypersaline lakes of Iran, five strains showed chitinolytic activity. Based on biochemical, morphological and molecular analyses, we established that all five potent strains belonged to the genus Natrinema. Besides, observing chitinase function in culture media, through an additional molecular test the presence of the chitinase gene in chitinase-producing strains was also confirmed by PCR amplification. Compared with other potent strains, Natrinema sp. strain BS5 showed significant chitinase production. The production of chitinase in strain BS5 accompanied growth, started at the logarithmic phase and increased to its maximum level at the beginning of the stationary phase. Maximum chitinase production was obtained at 37°C, pH 7.5, 3 M NaCl and 1% colloidal chitin. The strain BS5 showed 38%, 30%, 24% and 28% decreases in enzyme production at 40°C, pH 8, 3.5 M NaCl and 0.5% substrate, respectively. This strain was able to produce the enzyme in NaCl 4 M and in the absence of MgCl2 and MgSO4. This study revealed the strong potential of the genus Natrinema to produce chitinase at high salt concentrations without Mg2+ requirement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pars Special Economic Energy Zone (PSEEZ) in Bushehr province, Iran is a coastal ecosystem that is severely influenced by industrial and municipal activities. The present study was therefore conducted to monitor the health status of the intertidal zone of this ecosystem in different seasons using the Water Quality Index (WQI), Trophic Index (TRIX) and the concentration of heavy metals, including lead, copper, zinc and iron. Materials and Methods: To assess the desired indicators, 16 stations were selected along the region’s coast, and three samples were taken from each station. The required parameters of each index were then measured using standard methods. Results: Investigating the variations in WQI in different seasons found WQI to be the lowest (WQI=27.89) in winter, suggesting a bad status, followed respectively by summer (WQI=30.63), autumn (WQI=31.42) and spring (WQI=31.77), suggesting a relatively bad situation. The values of TRIX showed that the overall water quality of the intertidal zone is classified as oligotrophic. Moreover, the highest TRIX was associated with winter (TRIX=3.53) and the lowest with autumn (TRIX=1.93). The sequence of the overall mean concentrations of heavy metals in the water samples was also measured as Zn> Fe> Cu> Pb. Conclusion: The obtained findings attribute the high concentration of heavy metals and the low water quality of the coasts in winter to leaching contaminants from industrial, municipal and agricultural activities and the transmission of pollutants by surface currents to the coast of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the concentration of PAHs in 19 water samples, 34 sediment samples and 22 fish samples of Anzali Wetland, located in north of Iran. The average concentration of ∑PAHs in the wetland sediment was 89.19 μg/kg (8.28–806.64) and 78.31 ng/L (5.14–253.37) in the wetland water. Also, the average concentration of ∑PAHS in the muscle of the investigated fish in the wetland was 23 μg/kg (56.1 to 7.6). The source apportionment of PAHs in water and sediment considering isomeric ratios and statistical methods reveals the predominance of petrogenic origin of the compounds in water and pyrogenic origin in sediment. Overall, the level of contamination in fish is relatively low to moderate, considering ∑PAHs. The findings present clear evidence of low to moderate level of contamination in the wetland, the PAHs contamination however could cross their ecological thresholds in future unless control measures are taken to protect the wetland. [Display omitted] • This study is a description of PAHs pollution in Iran's largest freshwater wetland. • Petrogenic and pyrogenic sources are effective in the pollution of the wetland. • Heavy PAHs have a higher concentration in sediments. • Light PAHs have a higher concentration in water and fish. • This study provides useful information about the origin and health effect of PAHs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzes the concentrations and health risks of fluoride in 112 drinking water samples collected from 28 villages of the Poldasht city, West Azerbaijan province in Iran. Results indicated that fluoride content in drinking water ranged from0.27 to 10.3 mg L −1 (average 1.70 mg L −1 ). The 57% of samples analyzed exceeded the limit set for fluoride in drinking water. Based on findings from health risk assessment this study, the highest fluoride exposure for different regions of Poldasht city was observed in young consumers, children and teenager's groups. Also, most of the rural residents suffered from fluoride contaminated drinking water. The calculated HQ value was > 1 for all groups of residents in Agh otlogh and Sari soo areas. Therefore, it is imperative to take measures to reduce fluoride concentration in drinking water and control of fluorosis. Action should be implemented to enhance monitoring of fluoride levels to avoid the potential risk to the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water quality management plans are an indispensable strategy for conservation and utilization of water resources in a sustainable manner. One common industrial use of water is aquaculture. The present study is an attempt to use statistical analyses in order to prepare an environmental water quality monitoring program for Haraz River, in Northern Iran. For this purpose, the analysis of a total number of 18 physicochemical parameters was performed at 15 stations during a 1-year sampling period. According to the results of the multivariate statistical methods, the optimal monitoring would be possible by only 3 stations and 12 parameters, including NH, EC, BOD, TSS, DO, PO, NO, TDS, temperature, turbidity, coliform, and discharge. In other words, newly designed network, with a total number of 36 measurements (3 stations × 12 parameters = 36 parameters), could achieve exactly the same performance as the former network, designed based on 234 measurements (13 stations × 18 parameters = 234 parameters). Based on the results of cluster, principal component, and factor analyses, the stations were divided into three groups of high pollution (HP), medium pollution (MP), and low pollution (LP). By clustering the stations, it would be possible to track the water quality of Haraz River, only by one station at each cluster, which facilitates rapid assessment of the water quality in the river basin. Emphasizing on three main axes of monitoring program, including measurement parameters, sampling frequency, and spatial pattern of sampling points, the water quality monitoring program was optimized for the river basin based on natural conditions of the study area, monitoring objectives, and required financial resources (a total annual cost of about US $2625, excluding the overhead costs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tularemia or rabbit fever is a transmissible disease from animals, rodents, and insects to human populations that is caused by Francisella tularensis. Epidemiological studies showed that tularemia is endemic throughout most different regions of the world. Recent evidence documented the transmission of the F. tularensis in a different part of Asia. Because there is no updated review information for tularemia in Iran, we performed this systematic review. In this study, we systematically explored biomedical databases (Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of sciences) to identify epidemiology, reservoirs, and carriers of Francisella in animal and human clinical specimens from 2010 to 2020, either in English or in Persian. Different studies have shown the different frequencies of F. tularensis among human and animal resources in eighteen provinces of Iran. In total, 1242 human clinical specimens, 1565 animal samples, and 355 environmental water samples were investigated to find F. tularensis in different provinces of Iran. According to the collected documents, 94 human clinical samples, 69 water samples, and 26 animal specimens were introduced as positive samples for the F. tularensis. According to studies, thirteen species of rodent and hare presented as an inter-epizootic reservoir. Only one species of tick (D. marginatus) was introduced as a vector for Francisella in Iran. According to these results, it is essential for exclusive attention to the prevalence of F. tularensis in different provinces of Iran. Furthermore, special planning should be done for prevention, control of the outbreak, and proper treatment of the tularemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geological structures, specifically faults, may influence the permeability of geological units and so can be an important factor in the movement of groundwater and hydrogeological processes. This study is an investigation of the local influence of the North Tabriz Fault on the hydrogeology of the adjacent unconfined alluvial aquifer. The study area is located northwest of the city of Tabriz, Iran, on the North Tabriz fault zone. The North Tabriz Fault is a prominent tectonic structure with strike-slip right-lateral kinematics and is considered as one of the most active faults in Iran. This study shows that the fault has a major influence on the hydrogeological characteristics of the local aquifers. Sharp changes in the position of aquifer bedrock and aquifer thickness over relatively short distances (<200 m) suggest a near-vertical dip for the fault evidencing its reverse movement. The fault displacement has reduced the saturated aquifer thickness in the northern sector because the northern block (hanging wall) is thrust over the southern block (foot wall). As a result of barrier behavior prohibiting flow across it, the fault has channelized groundwater roughly parallel to its strike. Sharp changes of EC and chloride values over short distances across the fault show that there is no significant leakage or groundwater mixing across the barrier. A Chadha diagram indicates a Ca--Mg--Cl water type for the majority of northern water samples and Ca--Mg--HCO3 type for all southern samples, without any transitional modes. From Gibbs plots, rock type determines the groundwater hydrochemistry. Abundant Ca + Mg in all of the southern water samples are interpreted as related to carbonate weathering and dissolution, increasing SO4 more rapidly than Cl there. Gypsiferous marl and sandstone are prominent throughout the study area, especially in the southern part, and thus can be the sources of excess SO4. As a result of this study, subsurface structural evidences such as hydraulic head patterns, flow path variations and changes in groundwater hydrochemical properties across the fault are useful tools to understand the influence of fault zones on aquifer characteristics and the hydrogeological behavior of these zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to assess selected potentially toxic elements and persistent organic pollutants concentrations in the Shahid Rajaei Dam reservoir as well as their accumulation in barbel and Leuciscus cephalus fish species. The concentration of arsenic, mercury, nickel, chromium and cadmium in all water samples is less than WHO drinking water standard. Chromium shows a higher concentration than WHO standard in both fish species, while nickel and mercury content in barbel fish is higher than WHO standard. The result of principle component analyses indicates an increased elemental concentration due to application of phosphorus fertilizers in the agricultural lands, especially paddy field, ending up to the Tajan River and Shahid Rajaei Dam reservoir. Ni, Co, Mn, Pb and Cr display a quasi-independent behavior within the groups (PC1, PC2 and PC3) reflecting contribution of both geogenic and anthropogenic sources. The concentrations of persistent organic pollutants in all water samples, except M-5 sample, are less than WHO and EPA drinking water standards, while persistent organic pollutants (detected in both fish species) indicate higher contents than those of EPA standard values. Based on carcinogenic health risk value, maximum allowable fish consumption for arsenic is two meals per month. The result of noncarcinogenic health risk of mercury indicates one and three meals consumption per month for barbel and L. cephalus fishes, respectively. The calculation of maximum allowable fish consumption based on carcinogenic health for dieldrin, ∑HCH, heptachlor epoxide, ∑DDT and ∑PCBs reveals monthly meals limitation of both fish species grown in Shahid Rajaei Dam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content: Rosa damascena Mill. (Rosaceae) is an important ornamental and medicinal plant and a source of fragrance. Its hydrosol is known in Iran as golab (rose water) and has applications in religious ceremonies, food, and pharmaceuticals. Hydrosol is traditionally and industrially produced by distillation. The increase in market demand has led to production of inferior products for hydrosol that contain synthetic essences or essential oils of other plants, or that have been diluted with water. Inferior product often may be distinguished via its color changes and weak odor. However, details need to be determined by chemical analysis. Objective: The current study evaluated the composition and quality of 10 rose water samples purchased from local markets in Shiraz, capital of Fars province in Iran. Materials and methods: The essential oils of the samples were extracted and analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results: Results revealed that phenethyl alcohol, geraniol, and β-citronellol were the main constituents of most samples. In total, 22 constituents were detected and identified in the samples. Identification was determined for 60.97-96.07% of the essential oil components. Discussion and conclusion: It was concluded that Pelargonium and Dianthus essential oils and synthetic essences had been added to some samples. Dibutyl phthalate was also detected in most samples. This substance, which commonly exists as polyethylene terephthalate, may have been released into the samples from their containers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular isolation of biodegradable mycobacteria from water supplies of Iranian hospitals Background and objectives: Some microorganisms, mainly members of two genera including Pseudomonas and Mycobacterium, were found to be capable of transforming and degrading of polluting agents. We herein report the isolation of a few mycobacteria with the ability to biodegrade organic and inorganic compounds from water supplies of Iranian hospitals. Materials and methods: The water samples were collected from hospital water supplies. Isolation processes were done according to standard methods. The colonies were subcultured on Löwenstein-Jensen medium to obtain a pure culture. The identification and characterization of the isolates were based on conventional and molecular methods including direct sequence analysis of almost full length of 16S rRNA gene. Results: The almost complete 16S rRNA gene sequences of the studied strains revealed that the isolates WP16, AW18-1 and AW18-3 were identified as M. fredriksbergense, AW18-2 as M. austroafricanum, AW27-2 as M. obuense and AW27-6 as M. phocaicum. The relationship between our isolates and standard strains of Mycobacterium was supported by a phylogenetic tree of 16S rRNA gene. Conclusion: In the current study we were able to isolate and characterize six mycobacteria with capability of transforming and degrading polluting agents from Iranian hospital environments. This is indeed the first report on isolation and characterization of mycobacteria with degrading capability of polluting agents from Iranian hospitals. It can be considered as a pioneer study to open up a new horizon in the study of microbial diversity in Iran with an objective-based and applied approach to tackle environmental challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The radiological quality of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K in some samples of water resources collected in Anarak-Khour a desertic area, Iran has been measured by direct gamma ray spectroscopy using high purity germanium detector in this paper. Result: The concentration ranged from ≤0.5 to 9701 mBq/L for 226Ra; ≤0.2 to 28215 mBq/L for 232Th and < MDA to 10332 mBq/L for 40K. The radium equivalent activity was well below the defined limit of 370Bq/L. The calculated external hazard indices were found to be less than 1 which shows a low dose. Conclusion: These results can be contributed to the database of this area because it may be used as disposal sites of nuclear waste in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study determined the concentration of heavy metals (Al, Cr, Cu, and Zn) in water and sediments at nine sites in the Hara biosphere reserve of southern Iran during the summer and winter 2010. Determination of Al, Cr, Cu, and Zn in water was carried out by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer (Shimadzu, AA 610s) and in sediment by flame atomic absorption spectrometer (Perkin Elmer, AA3030). Results showed that the heavy metal concentrations in the water samples decreased in the sequence of Zn > Al > Cu > Cr, while in sediment samples were Cr > Zn > Cu > Al. Data analysis indicated that with the exception of Al, there was a Pearson’s correlation coefficient between pH and Cu, Zn, and Cr at α = 0.01, 0.05, and 0.001 in sediment (in winter), respectively. There were also significant differences between heavy metals of Cr, Cu, and Zn during the two seasons (p < 0.001) in the water and sediment. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Francisella tularensis could be disseminated through arthropod bites and exposure to infected animals, water, and aerosols. Water sources that are contaminated with rodent excrement could be a source of contamination; therefore, an analysis of water samples is an appropriate method to investigate the routes of dissemination. Since an outbreak occurred in one of the villages in East Azerbaijan. The current study aimed to investigate the Francisella isolation in the different water samples from East Azerbaijan, Iran. Sampling was carried out in East Azerbaijan province. Forty-six specimens of surface water were collected. Filtration, culture, and inoculation of the water sample into NMRI (Naval Medical Research Institute) inbreed mice were performed. DNA was extracted from filtered water samples, different organs of inoculated mice, and bacterial isolates and was tested by TaqMan real-time PCR by targeting ISFtu2 and fopA genes. Despite the unsuccessfulness in isolation of F. tularensis , molecular test results indicate the presence of bacteria in surface water. The highest rate of F. tularensis (ten from 46 water samples, 21.7%) was detected from injected mice based on molecular methods. Despite the high efforts of researchers to isolate Francisella spp. in Iran, in recent years, and also the evidence that shows the presence of this bacterium in different parts of the country, the culture was not successful again in this study and the molecular method still is recommended to identify the possible sources of Francisella spp. • Tularemia has been considered a re-emerging disease in Iran specifically in the western provinces, including Azerbaijan and Kurdistan. • Although finding the exact source of transmission is complicated, water is reported as the major source of contamination. • Real-time TaqManTM PCR assay targeting ISFtu2 along with fopA is more sensitive than culture, specifically for investigation the environmentally contaminated specimens, including water samples or tissues extracted from infected rodents. • Using the molecular method still is recommended to identify the possible sources of Francisella spp in Iran since the culture methods have some difficulties and evidence shows the presence of this bacterium in different parts of the country. • The current study showed that despite the high efforts of researchers to isolate Francisella spp. in the culture media, however, using this method of identification was not successful again in this study and because we could detect ISFtu2 (insertion sequence elements) and fopA (Francisella tularensis outer membrane protein), the molecular method still is recommended to identify the possible sources of Francisella spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Konarsiah salt diapir is situated in the Simply Folded Zone of the Zagros Mountain, south Iran. Eight small permanent brine springs emerge from the Konarsiah salt body, with average total dissolved solids of 326.7 g/L. There are numerous brackish to saline springs emerging from the alluvial and karst aquifers adjacent to the diapir. Concerning emergence of Konarsiah diapir in the study area, halite dissolution is the most probable source of salinity in the adjacent aquifers. However, other sources including evaporation and deep brines through deep Mangerak Fault are possible. The water samples of the study area were classified based on their water-type, salinity, and the trend of the ions concentration curves. The result of this classification is in agreement with the hydrogeological setting of the study area. The hydrochemical and isotopic evaluations show that the groundwater samples are the result of mixing of four end members; Gachsaran sulfate water, Sarvak and Asmari carbonate fresh waters, and diapir brine. The molar ratios of Na/Cl, Li/Cl, Br/Cl, and SO/Cl; and isotopic signature of the mixed samples justify a groundwater mixing model for the aquifers adjacent to the salt diapir. The share of brine in each adjacent aquifer was calculated using Cl mass balance. In addition, concentrations of 34 trace elements were determined to characterize the diapir brine and to identify the possible tracers of salinity sources in the mixed water samples. B, Mn, Rb, Sr, Cs, Tl, and Te were identified as trace elements evidencing contact of groundwater with the salt diapir. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 48 water samples and 24 sediment samples were collected at four sampling stations along the wetland during four seasons from 2009 to 2010 and analyzed by gas chromatograph-electron capture detector (GC-ECD). In water the total concentration of OCPs was 0.33, 0.01, 0.1 and 0.07 mg/L in summer, autumn, winter and spring, respectively. The most frequent OCP compounds detected were endrin and chlordane (0.08 and 0.07 mg/L), heaxachlorobenzene and chlordane (0.06, 0.02 mg/L), and chlordane (0.07 mg/L) in summer, winter and spring, respectively. The maximum concentration of ΣOCPs was found in samples collected from station 1 in summer (0.26 mg/L). In sediments the total concentrations of OCPs were 15.84 and 2.62 mg/g-dry weight (dw) in summer and winter, respectively. Chlordane was the most frequently found OCP compound, followed by lindane, 9.92 and 2.47 mg/g-dry weight (dw), respectively, in summer. While, lindane (2.52 mg/g-dw) and endosulfan I (0.1 mg/g-dw) were the highest OCP compounds detected in winter. The results obtained in this study show that there still exist a variety of organochlorine pesticide residues in the water and sediments from the Amir-kalaye wetland in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many outbreaks related to swimming pools could have been prevented or reduced if the pool had been well managed and effectively monitored. The aim of this study was to evaluate physicochemical and microbial parameters that can be proposed as an indicator for the safety of swimming pools. A total of 234 water samples, over a 10-month period in 2006-2007, were collected from indoor swimming pools in Isfahan. All water samples were analyzed for physicochemical and microbial parameters including temperature, pH, turbidity, conductivity, free chlorine, heterotrophic plate count (HPC), total (TC) and fecal coliforms (FC), fecal streptococci (FS) Staphylococcus aureus (Sa) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa). The highest isolation of microbial indicators was for total coliforms (38%) and the lowest for fecal streptococci (3%). The correlation analyses indicated that free chlorine concentration had a significant negative relationship with the heterotrophic bacteria population and total coliforms. Total coliforms presented a significant correlation with the other microbiological indicators. The results clearly showed that the hygienic quality of the swimming pools was dependent on the efficacy of disinfection. Thus, the free chlorine and pH were good operational indices for the quality control of swimming pools and must be maintained in the recommended range to ensure optimal disinfection. The results also showed that TC and HPC were reliable and practical indicators for routine quality surveillance and assessment of the efficiency of the disinfection process and safety of swimming pools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, a scenario-based many-objective optimization model is developed for the spatio-temporal optimal design of reservoir water quality monitoring systems considering uncertainties. The proposed methodology is based on the concept of nonlinear interval number programming and information theory, while handling uncertainties of temperature, reservoir inflow, and inflow constituent concentration. A reference-point-based non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-III) is used to deal with the many-objective optimization problem. The proposed model is developed for the Karkheh reservoir system in Iran as a real-world problem. The results show excellent performance of the optimized water quality sampling locations instead of all potential ones in providing adequate information about the reservoir water quality status. The presented uncertainty-based model leads to a 55.73% reduction in the radius of the uncertain interval caused by different scenarios. Handling uncertainties in a spatio-temporal many-objective optimization problem is the main contribution of this study, yielding a reliable and robust design of a reservoir monitoring system that is less sensitive to various scenarios. Image 1 • Investigating reservoir water quality variations under environmental uncertainties. • Uncertainty-based optimization model using nonlinear interval number programming. • Handling uncertainties in temperature, inflow, and constituent concentration. • Decreased radius of the uncertain interval created by different scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]