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The toxic components of landfills are a major threat to the environment and human health. The present study investigates the impacts of ceramic and rubber waste on the leachate quality and treatment performance to eliminate harmful components. In this process, ten identical columns of waste rubber, ceramics, and geotextiles of different thicknesses were used as filter materials for the leachate. Then, a physic-chemical analysis was carried out on the filtered water. The results showed that the physical and chemical factors decrease with the increase in the thickness of the ceramic waste layer. Therefore, these physical and chemical parameters of the water generated from cells containing scrap rubber waste with dimensions of 0.2 mm are lower than those with dimensions of 4 mm. The permeability factor in the cells increases with the thickness of both types of scrap rubber waste. Column 4 gives good results on both physical and chemical parameters and permeability. Column 5 without scrap rubber waste gives better physical and chemical parameters but poor results in terms of permeability factor. The results showed that rubber waste and ceramic powder waste could be used as low-cost layers of leachate filters in landfills to mitigate negative environmental impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mining activities tend to pollute surface soils, water bodies, and groundwater of surrounding mining sites. These anthropogenic activities have a direct impact on the crops cultivated along with human life in and around mining areas. Mining operations produced contaminants that disrupted the physiochemical properties of water and soil. Hence analyzing the nutritional status of water and soil along with physiochemical properties is an indicator of pollution in mining areas. Odisha is the greatest producer of chromium metal, accounting for about 97% of total chromium output in India, with all of this coming from multiple chromite mines in the Sukinda block (Jajpur district). Chromite mining dust and water spills containing poisonous hexavalent chromium produce the most unfavorable conditions in water bodies and soil, rendering them unsuitable for human and plant use. The current analysis was carried out adjacent to the Sukinda block of the Jajpur district demonstrating that the examined parameters are more or less over the allowed range. The entire research explains the quality of soil and water near chromite mining areas concerning seasonal (pre‐monsoon, monsoon and post‐monsoon) and annual variation. The pH of the soil was found to be very acidic at the present research sites, which are within a radius of 3–5 km from the mining region, ranging from 4.33 to 5.24. The pH of water varied from 6.45 to 7.67 due to the mixing of chromium from the mining activity. The water bodies near the mining sites were found to be highly turbid (423–649 NTU). The test value of soil nutrients such as Nitrogen (142.89–189.12 Kg/ha.), Phosphorous (5.73–7.84 Kg/ha.), and Potassium (143.25–174.45 Kg/ha.) are comparatively very low than the normal range of soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Road activities are recognized sources of pollution that affect the hydrochemistry of nearby water bodies. This study evaluated the Water Quality Monitoring Program in the Soberbo and Iconha rivers in the Guapi-Macacu watershed, which is affected by the BR-116 highway. The Rio-Teresópolis Concessionaire from 2009 to 2016 carried out quarterly sampling. The parameters analyzed were: temperature, pH, turbidity, settleable solids, DO, BOD, NO3-, NO2-, NH4+, PO4-3, total and thermotolerant coliforms, Fe, Ni, Cr and Zn. PO4-3, pH, BOD and thermotolerant coliforms sometimes exceed the freshwater limits set by the National Environment Council (CONAMA 357/05, 2005). However, these values did not change the classification of "good" according to the water quality index used by the Brazilian environmental authorities for river waters. Precipitation was an important factor in understanding the hydrochemistry. Monthly precipitation ranged from 779.8 mm in January 2013 to 2.8 mm in July 2010. Temporal analysis using non-parametric tests showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in almost all parameters, indicating a strong influence of precipitation patterns on water quality. On a spatial scale, only coliform was found to differ between rivers (p < 0.01), suggesting an anthropogenic influence. Principal component analysis showed that chemical weathering and mechanical erosion processes predominated in both rivers (PC1: Soberbo River - 20.3%; Iconha River - 26.7%). Rainfall was identified as a secondary factor associated with coliforms and NH4+, especially in the Iconha River (PC2: Soberbo River-10.8%; Iconha River-11.9%), whose altitude indicated the atmospheric contribution of pollution from the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro. The reports of the Water Quality Monitoring Program were critically evaluated, resulting in recommendations aimed at optimizing their effectiveness and providing support for decision-making on the management of water resources in environmental protection areas., (© The Author(s) 2025. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Abstract Groundwater alone comprises nearly about 80% of the available water for irrigation purpose in Murshidabad and this usage of groundwater for irrigation is yet to increase further in the upcoming years. The present study was carried out to access the groundwater’s suitability for different agricultural purposes in and around Sagardighi block of Murshidabad district, West Bengal, India. Groundwater samples from thirty three different locations around Sagardighi were collected and then tested in the laboratory for various physical as well as chemical parameters such as electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, some major cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, Fe2+) and some anions (CO3 2−, HCO3 −, Cl−). To further delineate the suitable groundwater zones for irrigation practices, the irrigation water quality parameters such as sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), sodium percentage (Na%), magnesium adsorption ratio (MAR), permeability index (PI), residual sodium carbonate (RSC), Kelly’s ratio (KR) were also calculated. Results show that most of the water samples had low to medium salinity, while only a very few of the samples show high salinity. Piper trilinear plot reveals that the water is primarily of Ca–Mg–HCO3 − facies type. The SAR value of majority of the water samples in the study area are less than 10, which is within safe limits. RSC values indicate that the carbonate content is extremely low in the groundwater of the study area. Overall, the results indicate that majority of the samples are fit to be used for irrigational purpose. The findings of this study would help decision-makers in developing irrigation suitability planning and groundwater resource management in the future.

The Assessment of the metallic pollution of the water and sediment of four fish ponds located in the town of Daloa has been determined. To do this, water and sediment samples were taken from these ponds for the determination of Hg, Pb, Cd and Cu with the atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results of the analysis show that the water quality of the various fish ponds is influenced by the variation of the physicochemical parameters and that these waters are vulnerable to organic and inorganic pollution. Moreover, these results also revealed Cu (5.039 mg.L-1) and Hg (5.191 mg.L-1) are the metals most accumulated in the waters of fish ponds, while for sediments we have Cu (708.909 mg.kg-1) and Pb (1.22 mg.kg-1). The order of preferential accumulation of ETM in the water of these ponds is as follows: [Cu]>[Hg]>[Pb]>[Cd]. That of the sediments is [Cu]>[Pb]>[Hg]>[Cd]. This shows that whatever the study matrix, Cu is the most predominant metal. On the other hand, the values of the Geo index did indeed show a high intensity of the pollution of the sediment of fish ponds by Hg and Cu. These two metals would therefore present risks of metallic bioaccumulation of living organisms in this environment due to their presence and their strong accumulation

Water and soil were considered for a long time to be renewable resources, but currently, the opposite is demonstrated and water and soil pollution represent an important factor in causing ecological imbalances that can have serious consequences for the biosphere. The main pollution generating process has become industrialization and technologicalization. The objective of this study was to investigate through a field study the physico-chemical parameters of the Jiu river from 15 specific locations, determining the values of pH, hardness, and dissolved oxygen, for two years (2016/2017). The water samples were collected in special containers and stored in the refrigerator at 4 °C until the determinations were made. To determine the physico-chemical parameters, the portable spectrophotometer model DR 1900 (Hach, Romania) was used and the following physico-chemical determinations were performed: pH; hardness; conductivity; dissolved oxygen. For the water samples collected from the Jiu river on the territory of Gorj county, pH values were obtained between 7.0 - 9.2 in 2016 and between 7.4-8.5 in 2017. The water samples collected from the territory of Dolj county were obtained pH values between 6.0 - 9.2 / 2016 and between 7.0 - 9.0 / 2017. The pH value was higher in January and July in 2016 compared to the values obtained in the same months of 2017. The oxygen concentration in the water samples taken from the Jiu river, both in Gorj and Dolj county was increased in both 2016 and 2017, classifying the Jiu River in ecological class 1 (very good), according to Order 161/2006. The values of the amount of O2 (mg / L) were higher in 2016, both in January and July, compared to the same period of 2017. The value of O2 concentration was lower in the samples taken downstream compared to the samples taken upstream.

Access to clean and safe water is extremely important, not only in Palestine but also worldwide. In the West Bank, groundwater is particularly valuable because of its scarcity and inaccessibility, and, due to the nature of the area’s aquifers, is currently regarded as being at high risk of pollution. Moreover, the water quality in this area is also of wide concern, with its effects being directly linked to human health. Certain parts of the West Bank groundwater suffer from high concentrations of nitrate and potassium. In total, 38.8% of nitrate and 10% of potassium concentrations in well samples exceed the permissible limit set by the WHO and PSI, and, therefore, health problems arise as a limiting factor for life quality and welfare in this region. Moreover, 87.7% of samples are classified as having very hard water. To evaluate the well water in the study area, an assessment was conducted based on the WQI and HHR. Therefore, 49 samples were taken from a group of wells distributed across the study area during the year 2021. The physico-chemical parameters of each sample were analysed. The WQI values showed that 78% of the well samples were of good quality. Moreover, in the classification of the water based on a Piper diagram, 65% of the groundwater was determined to be calcium–magnesium–bicarbonate-type water. Likewise, health risk assessments were evaluated for fluoride and nitrate in drinking water for adults, children, and infants. The main values of the estimated total hazard index (THI) obtained from the analysed data on the health risk assessments revealed a diverse effect on the local population based on age category. The ranges of THI in all sampling locations varied considerably and extended from 0.093 to 3.01 for adults, 0.29 to 3.08 for children, and 0.302 to 3.21 for infants. These results widely indicate that infants are more exposed to health risks.

The Elbasani region is characterized by its strong hydrodynamics regime, which comes from the powerful movements of underground water combined with many resources; therefore, the area has geothermal potential, and is one of the most popularly used in our country. This area has a number of sources, located in the form of a chain in the sector between Llixha and Hidrajt, and constitutes a thermomineral basin with a stable discharge and high temperature, at the upper limits of low enthalpy, reaching above 60 °C. The current average flow of thermal water is about 15–18 L/s and temperatures vary from 55 to 65 °C. It is estimated that these resources have specific reserves of 39.6 GJ/m2 and the potential to install 2760 kW of power. To evaluate their basic physico-chemical parameters and nutrients, water samples were taken throughout 2022 at five monitoring stations, covering the entire aquifer. Stiff diagrams have been used to explain the similarities between the physico-chemical properties.

Wastewater reuse is a popular practice in some regions of the world, affected by water shortages. After purification techniques, wastewater can be used in several areas of irrigation and industry. Only, there are international standards declared by the World Health Organization for these waters discharged from the sewage plant. In this research, we tried to evaluate these purified wastewaters by choosing the wastewater treatment plant of Bouira. We took samples of raw water and purified water to perform common physico-chemical analyses, such as (pH, turbidity, temperature, BOD5, conductivity), whose purpose is to control the quality of water before and after treatment. This control operation lasted one month (February and March) of the year 2022. The results of the physico-chemical parameters of raw wastewater and treated wastewater are analyzed and compared with the thresholds set by the wastewater treatment plant of Bouira. At the end, we have shown that the treated water does not practically meet the standards of discharge, because the values of the physico-chemical parameters and the parameters of pollution exceed the standards, which does not encourage their reuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents an assessment of marine water quality in beaches along Vlora Bay, as important areas for recreation and tourism in Albania, based on physical-chemical parameters and nutrient content (nitrites, nitrates, and phosphates). Changes in the physico-chemical characteristics such as pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), particulate material (TSS), etc. and nutrients give information on the quality of the water, the source(s) of the variations and their impacts on the functions and biodiversity of the water body. For this purpose, parameters such as pH, temperature, Electrical Conductivity (EC), salinity, dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS) and nutrients (N/NO 2--, N/NO 3--, P/PO 4 ³--) were determined in eight water samples collected in beaches along Vlora Bay (in citty of Vlora). Although physico-chemical parameters, including dissolved oxygen (DO), and nutrients resulted in normal levels, it is recommended to strengthen the measures that could be taken to reduce the level of urban discharges near the coastal area of the beach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study focused on the possibility of differentiating fresh-unprocessed orange juice according to botanical origin (variety), based on the use of conventional physico-chemical parameters, flavonoids, and volatile compounds, in combination with chemometrics. For this purpose, oranges from seven different varieties were collected during the harvest years of 2013–2014 and 2014–2015 from central and southern Greece. The physico-chemical parameters that were determined included: electrical conductivity, acidity, pH, and total soluble solids. The flavonoids: hesperidin, neohespseridin, quercetin, naringin, and naringenin were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-DAD). Finally, volatile compounds were determined using headspace solid-phase micro-extraction in combination with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME/GC-MS). Statistical treatment of data by multivariate techniques showed that orange juice variety had a significant (p < 0.05) impact on the above analytical parameters. The classification rate for the differentiation of orange juice according to orange variety using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) was 89.3%, based on the cross-validation method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is, on the one hand, the measurement of some organoleptic parameters (water content, pH, brix, titratable acidity) of a large commercial tomato Rio Grande variety, widely cultivated in the north of Algeria. On the other hand, the valorisation of the crude oil extracted from the dried seeds of the same variety using a soxhlet extractor. The extracted oil was analysed by standard methods for the following parameters: acid, peroxide, iodine, saponification and refractive indexes and the unsaponifiable. The results obtained indicate that Rio Grande fruits present a product of appreciable quality. The oil seems to have physico-chemical properties similar to those of some edible oils, which makes it possible to consider its use in human food, as well as in other fields (pharmaceutical, cosmetic, etc.). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring the quality of raw cow milk is essential to maintain food safety and human health. To guarantee the quality and safety of milk, easy-to-use non-destructive analysis methods are available. Non-destructive methods have made progress, being useful for obtaining quantitative and qualitative data, destroying the sample, and offering several advantages, such as high sensitivity, adequate response time, and minimal sample preparation. Conventional methods are laborious, destructive, toxic, and time-consuming, require fully equipped laboratories and skilled personnel, extensive sample preparation, and are not suitable for real-time continuous monitoring of milk quality. The rapid development of non-destructive methods for the evaluation of milk quality consists of applications based on imaging, near-infrared spectroscopy, conductivity, biosensors, and ultrasound. This paper presents different non-destructive methods applied to determine the physicochemical parameters of raw milk (fats, proteins, lactose, casein, dry matter, acidity, density), the number of somatic cells, and the microbiological load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing interest in fruits composition and nutritional value among scientist, food producers, and consumers, related to their potential benefits to human health. Furthermore, native fruits remain an interesting group that should be studied, diversified and preserved. In this regards this study aims to determine the physico-chemical composition of different native Albanian fig fruits. This study is based on experiments for 13 autochthonous fig varieties of cultivar Ficus carica L. conducted over three consecutive years (2015 - 2017). Selection of samples was made according to their distribution and cultivation (Tirana, Elbasan, Berat, Shkodra, Himara and Kavaja), colour (black and white) and their use (fresh consumption and processed). During this period 35 observation were made, for the following physico-chemical parameters were followed official AOAC methods: total soluble solids expresses in oBrix was determined with ABBE refractometer, total acidity expressed as citric acid was determined by titration with sodium hydroxide solution 0.1N, maturity index was determined as a ratio of total soluble solids and total acidity, pH was determined with pH meter, dry matter was determined by gravimetric method drying at 105 0C, total ash was determined by gravimetric method using a muffle furnace and incinerated at 525 0C, total carbohydrates determined by colorimetric method using Anthrone reagent, reducing sugars were determined by a titration method Lane-Eynon [44], crude fibre determined gravimetrically after treatment with sulfuric acid solution, 0.255 N and sodium hydroxide solution, 0.312 N, pectin was determined with gravimetric method precipitating as calcium pectate, total fat was determined with Soxhlet extraction method, total protein was determined by Kjeldahl method, and vitamin C determined by redox titration with iodine solution 0.1N. The conducted study showed that the maximum variance direction in the data (first principal component, PC1) was 55.07% in the total variation. The second largest source of variation in the data (second principal component, PC2) was 11.34% in the total variation. The cumulative ratio of the two primary components in total variation was 66.41%. In the first principal component total soluble solids - 0.944, maturity index - 0.555, dry matter - 0.911, total carbohydrates - 0.943, reducing sugars - 0.944, crude fibres - 0.605, fat - 0.907, and protein - 0.521 had the highest coefficients, while in the second principal component total acidity - 0.589 had the highest value, based on squared cosines of the variables. Fig varieties had similarities and distinguished physicochemical parameters, and based on them, also from principal component analysis visualized graphically in a multidimensional space, we distinguished some interesting varieties. Based on their characteristics, black varieties (large size fruit, juicy, high maturity index) are suitable for fresh consumption, while white varieties (medium-size fruit, high content of dry matter, sugars) are suitable for processing as dried fruits, additionally some fig varieties with a high content of organic acids are suitable for the production of other products (purees, smoothies, and juices). Finally, it has been shown that fig fruit is an interesting raw material with a varied food composition and nutritional value, which is strongly determined by the variety. These data and PCA model would be beneficial to identify the most attractive varieties and to be used by the breeders, food processors and consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to assess the physico-chemical quality and the trophic state of the waters of a fish farm in ponds located in Abengourou in the east of the Côte d'Ivoire. The physicochemical parameters were determined in water samples collected on the farm from September to October 2020 according to the NF T90-105 standard of AFNOR (1997). The monthly values of temperature, hydrogen potential, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, total dissolved solids, transparency and suspended matter are respectively between 28.28 - 30.87 °C; 6.2 - 8.18; 5.28 - 6.92 mg/L; 32 - 101 µS/cm; 21 - 42 mg/L; 25 - 43.6 cm and 101.69 - 149.58 mg/L. Monthly concentrations of nitrite, nitrate, ammonium, phosphate and chlorophyll-a in farm water respectively ranged from 0.009 to 0.028 mg/; from 3.7 to 16.6 mg/L; 1.04 to 2.69 mg/L, 2.2 to 4.3 mg/L and 2.6 to 6.6 µg/L. The values of the measured parameters were compared with the standards recommended for the breeding of tilapia Oreochromis niloticus. The comparative analysis revealed that most of the water quality parameters are suitable for the breeding of the fish Oreochromis niloticus. However, the transparency, the conductivity and the recorded phosphate results were not compliant with the standard values, which are respectively between 30 - 80 cm, 150-450 µS/cm and 0.5 mg/L. The values of the TDS / EC ratios (0.48 - 0.78) and the pollution indices (2.00 - 2.66) showed a strong mineralization of the water and a high level of organic pollution in all the structures of the farm which indicate a eutrophic state of the water of the dam and the ponds. So this eutrophication phenomenon can lead to long-term stress and mortality of fish if adequate measures are not taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the mid-50s of the last century, reports began to appear about the ineffectiveness of sulfonamides and antibiotics in bacterial infections. And soon the widespread spread of numerous strains of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms was noted. The fight against drug-resistant bacteria is carried out in several directions: obtaining new chemotherapeutic drugs, chemical modification of known antibiotics, or the use of inhibitors that suppress the activity of bacterial enzymes that inactivate antibiotics. Neocytin is a complex chemotherapeutic drug, which is a solution of tetracycline, levomycitin, novocaine, and ascorbic acid. In this scientific work, some physico-chemical properties of Neocytin are investigated, as well as the main toxicological indicators: acute toxicity, chronic toxicity, the irritating effect of the drug, and the effect of the drug on the mucous membranes. In addition, the effect of the drug on the change in body weight of the studied animals was studied. The drug is a low-toxic agent for warm-blooded animals, both in acute and chronic experiments. Neocytin has mild acute toxicity, without causing severe toxicosis at a dose of 0.3 ml/kg of body weight, and belongs to the 4th hazard class (minor hazardous substances). Long-term use of the drug in doses exceeding therapeutic by 3-5 times does not adversely affect the general condition of animals and other indicators of their clinical status, does not have a harmful local effect, does not adversely affect the main types of metabolism, does not violate the functions and structure of vital systems, organs, and tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kelani River is the most polluted river in Sri Lanka and the lower catchment is more polluted than the upper catchment. In the present study, freshwater fish species of the lower catchment of the river were investigated for the use of assessing the water quality. Cast net sampling and identification recorded 34 freshwater fish species from the lower catchment, the majority represented by family Cyprinidae. Fish species richness, diversity indices, distribution, abundance and the regression analysis of fish species with water quality parameters revealed high sensitivity and tolerance of three fish species with certain water quality parameters. Dawkinsia singhala was tolerant to the fluctuations of the chemical parameters of the water, while Rasbora daniconius and Pethia reval were tolerant to the physical parameters. Positive correlations were evident between the ammonium and phosphate concentrations of the water and distribution and abundance of D. singhala, while R. daniconius and P. reval showed positive correlations with turbidity of water and pH value respectively. Furthermore, the study reveals that D. singhala is more suitable for predicting the water quality of urban and peri-urban locations of the river, while P. reval and R. daniconius are more suitable for assessing the water quality of rural locations. Thus, the present study reveals a strong possibility of using D. singhala, R. daniconius and P. reval, as biological indicators for assessing the variation of water quality of the lower catchment of the Kelani River. However, despite the fact that such a study has been conducted for the first time in Sri Lanka, it is restrained by certain limitations, and seasonal variations of water quality parameters with fish parameters, adaptations inherent to fish species and food availability in different locations combined with long-term monitoring of fish assemblages have not been considered. Future studies investigating these aspects will further enhance the value of the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water spring are vital to all human activities. The integration of hydrological, geological, hydrogeological and ecological characteristics of resource ecosystems provides a much needed tool for recognizing the characteristics and their distribution. The objective of this study was to identify springs in the study area, in order to evaluate their hydrogeological characteristics and parameters. Eight springs have been identified in the Golesh Massif area. They are mainly of lithological contact. Water flow ranging from 0.03 to 5 l/s, the temperature, pH and total hardness in the water of spring Curreli range within 11.1 to 15.7 °C, 5.51 to 8.03 °C and 18.8 to 21.67 ºdH, respectively. Their recharge mainly depends on the amount of precipitations that falls in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physico-chemical properties of obizi river in awka south local government area of anambra state were analyzed for its pollution level and determined if it will be fit for domestic purposes. It is significant for cooking, drinking, fishing, recreational and other uses. It flows via a channel that may be contaminated by industrial, agricultural, and other anthropogenic activities, limiting its normal uses for cooking, drinking, fishing, recreational and other uses. The parameters analyzed includes temperature (°C), pH, turbidity (NTUb), conductivity μs/cm, resistivity mg/l, chloride mg/l. Temperature(°C), pH, turbidity (NTUb) resistivity mg/l and conductivity μs/cm was measured in-situ using mercury thermometer with a range of 100C -350C, pH meter (HANNA H1991002), turbidimeter (Hl 88703, WAGTECH), conductivity and resistivity multi-meter (HI 991300, Hanna Instruments, Romania) and chloride was determined by titration. The results of the analysis were equivalence with world health organization (WHO) limit for domestic drinking water and other purposes. From the results obtained, it showed that all the parameters analyzed were above WHO permissible limit except resistivity and chloride which is within the world health organization (WHO) limit for domestic drinking water. As much, it is not recommended for human consumption and is recommended that the state government put in place a treatment plant which can be used to treat the obizi river water before being used by the community that depends solely on it for domestic purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Standards for water quality in Fiji defined in the Environment Management Regulations 2007 only relate to effluent discharge into the environment. Urbanisation is contributing to wastewater contamination in receiving estuary and marine recreational waters, thus requiring specific guidelines. To create a baseline for this, a sampling programme with relevant physico-chemical and biological parameters was implemented at 3 sites along the Suva foreshore, for 8 consecutive months, during low and high tides. Analysis was done in triplicates, using standard methods approved for the examination of water and wastewater. In the absence of relevant Fiji guidelines, the results were compared with ANZECC (2000) guidelines for estuary and marine waters. Low DO levels, high COD, TN, NH3, TP, OP and heavy metal concentrations were measured in all 3 sites. For instance, TN and NH3 concentrations as high as 4.44 ±0.99 mg/L and 2.58 ± 0.89 mg/L respectively were recorded in Wailea river (Site 2). The colony counts for the TC, FC and E. coli were in most cases above the limits. These results confirm that wastewater discharges add to the inherent levels of parameters in receiving water bodies and support the need for specific, robust Fiji standards to better monitor water quality in foreshore areas. HIGHLIGHTS Urbanisation contributes to wastewater contamination in Fiji water bodies.; Development of water quality baseline is a pre-requisite for establishing water quality guidelines for water bodies.; Use of indicator organisms to assess water quality affected by discharge of wastewater.; Use of standard methods to develop baseline and water quality guidelines.; Potential effect of tidal movement on water quality of estuaries.;

The results of a comparative study of the effectiveness of plant biostimulators “Biosvit” and “Megasvit” on changes in the physicochemical composition of milk, which was obtained from dairy cows of the Ukrainian black-and-white dairy breed, kept in Ltd “Renaissance +1881” Zolochivskyi district of Kharkiv region are reflected in the article. There were used 2 biological batches in our studies. One batch of the biological product was made on the basis of a dry mixture, which is called ‘11-Tigers by “Eleven Tigers Herbal Bar Energizer” and consists of seven species of plants of foreign origin. The other type is based on a dry mixture of 7 plants of domestic origin. Biologicals “Biosvit” and “Megasvit” experimental groups of animals (D 1) and (D 2) were injected subcutaneously at the rate of 3-4 mg of active substance per 1 kg of the body weight (on average 15 ml) per 1 animal. Biologicals were injected to the above animals five times, every 72 hours. Milk samples, taken from the formed groups of cows, were monitored for physico-chemical parameters. It was carried out that under the influence of two types of drugs “Biosvit” and “Megasvi” the productivity of cows in experimental groups increased, and in the milk samples from the cows in these groups (D 1) and (D 2), there was an increase in mass fraction: fat by 0,19 and 0,2%; protein by 0,15 and 0,16%; lactose by 0,13 and 0,14%; dry matter by 0,35 and 0,45%, skimmed milk powder by 0,15 and 0,19%, protein by 0,16 (P ≥ 0,95) and 0,28% respectively, compared with the control group of cows (K(controlled)). It can be noted that under the influence of the biological product “Megasvit” there was a more significant increase in the mass fraction of fat by 0,11%; protein by 0,25%, compared with similar indicators of the biological product “Biosvit”.

Abstract Environmental stress caused by pollution is often assessed by diversity of macro-invertebrate species in specific aquatic habitat. To find out seasonal fluctuations in various macro-invertebrates communities and different water quality parameters of River Zhob, a research trial was conducted on River Zhob, Balochistan. Samples of macro-invertebrates and water were taken from four different stations of River Zhob. A total 18 taxa of various macro-invertebrates were identified from the area. Phylum Arthropoda constitute 94.8% of the total population followed by Mollusca (3.6%) and Annelida (1.4%). A large number of arthropods were belonged to order Diptera (1148), while the order Trichoptera was stood second with respect to macro-invertebrate´s number (441). The maximum numbers of macro-invertebrates were observed in the month of January. All physico-chemical parameters of River Zhob such as air temperature, water temp, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO) and total dissolved solids (TDS) were within the range, suitable for the healthy growth of macro-invertebrates. Diversified populations of various macro-invertebrates confirm good ecological condition of environment and water in the studied site especially ample concentration of DO in River. The documented data on macro-invertebrates in studied site will provide a baseline for future research.

A study was conducted in the Konglo stream for six months to make an inventory of aquatic heteroptera, following a monthly sampling frequency. Some hydrological and physicochemical parameters such as water width, current velocity, and water flow, water temperature and pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, total hardness, phosphates, nitrates, and ammonia were measured according to standard methods. For an inventory of the heteropterans, the multihabitat approach was used during sampling, but only heteropterans representing 3.15 % of total abundance are considered in this study. The hydrological variables were different in each station. The water width and flow were increased from upstream to downstream. The results showed that pH, total hardness, nitrites, phosphates, and ammonia values ​​were weak and no significant differences were observed. Among physicochemical variables, only dissolved oxygen and electrical conductivity were different between upstream and downstream. The conductivity increased from upstream to downstream while the dissolved oxygen was very low downstream. 62 individuals were collected and counted belonging to 11 taxa, the most abundant being Ranatra linearis. The other taxa such as Anisops sp., Aphelocheirus aestivalis, Gerris sp., Gerridae Nd., Hydrometra sp., Ilyocoris cimicoides, Naucoris sp., Nepa sp., Notonectidae Nd., and Velia sp. were poorly represented. High abundance was recorded at the upstream (38 individuals), but the taxonomic richness (3 taxa) and diversity (0.24 bits/ind) remain low, unlike the stations located downstream (7 taxa and 1.82 bits/ind).

Assessment of groundwater quality is important for drinking water, especially for rural populations. The aim of this study was to assess the groundwater quality for human consumption by integrating the water quality index with geographic information system (GIS) for the eventual interpretation of Meknes area water quality. Eight wells and two springs were investigated between February 2013 and February 2014. In light of the analysis results, spatial distribution maps of chosen physico-chemical parameters such as pH, O2, EC, Ca2+, Mg2+, SO42−, NH4+, NO3−, NO2−, PO43−, SO42− and HCO3 – were prepared using GIS. Water Quality Index (WQI) approach is utilized with the groundwater parameters and spatial distribution maps have been developed using GIS for the obtained indexes. The anthropogenic activities may be the likely cause of poor water quality. The north and north-west regions are influenced by anthropogenic inputs from the leaching of landfill and wastewater, whereas the south-west region is affected by agricultural runoff due to a quite high level of agricultural activity. The WQI values varied from 28.88 to 187.18. According to WQI classification, 30% of samples are unsuitable for drinking water purposes. These findings indicate the need for serious reflection on the part of the planners and decision-makers for efficient management of the groundwater resources.

Biscuits are one of the most consumed bakery products that contain a high content of fat, sugar, and different additives that may cause various health problems. This has led to an increased focus on enriching bakery products with plant extracts to improve their nutritional and sensory properties. The objective of the current work was to investigate the effect of replacing wheat flour with plant extracts such as blueberry and cranberry (at concentrations of 3%, 6%, and 9%) and compare with control biscuits regarding the physico-chemical and color parameters. In addition, sensory analysis was conducted to determine the consumer acceptability of the enriched biscuits. The enrichment of biscuits with blueberry powder significantly increased the moisture content and decreased pH values (p < 0.05). Similarly, cranberry-enriched biscuits had a significantly higher moisture content, water activity, and decreased pH values compared to control samples (p < 0.05). On the other hand, enrichment of biscuits with either blueberry or cranberry powder significantly decreased lightness (L*), yellowness (b*), chroma value (C*), and h-value (h) but increased the redness values (a* value) of samples (p < 0.05). Our results showed that with increasing concentrations of plant extract addition in biscuits, the sensory attributes such as odor and taste were significantly improved. The results of the study suggest that the addition of plant extracts to biscuits improved their physico-chemical and sensory properties.

Argan oil is a precious vegetable oil extracted from the fruits of the argan tree (Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels) in Algeria (Tindouf region). It is used and prepared in an artisanal way from crushed and then roasted almonds, by women in the region. The present study brings a valuation of the oil by the analysis of the physicochemical characteristics and the determination of the composition of tocopherols, fatty acids and triglycerides. The standard physicochemical parameters that were determined by international standard protocols showed that argan oil could be classified as “virgin” courante oil suitable for direct consumption. The chemical composition was determined by gas chromatography (GC) and highperformance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The oil is mainly composed of unsaturated fatty acids (around 80%), mainly oleic and linoleic acid followed by saturated fatty acids (around 80%), it has a composition of triglycerides (TAG) divided into five major TAGs, namely OOL (15.78%), LLO (14.55%), SLL (11.95%), POO (11.20%) and OOO (11.04%). Thus other beneficial compounds of the unsaponifiable fraction are tocopherols with a content of 750.52 mg/kg, where γ tocopherol is the majority tocopherol with a level of (85.37%). The nutritional value and beneficial effect of Algerian argan oil deserve to be maintained and developed in an economic context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An assessment of plankton distribution along with physical and chemical parameters was undertaken in different altitudinal lakes of Arunachal Pradesh. The sampling and data analysis was performed following standard methods. Out of the total 66 species recorded, 15 species commonly occurred namely Amphora sp., Bulbochaete sp., Closterium sp., Cymbella sp., Lyngbya sp., Mougeotia scalaris, Navicula sp., Nitzschia sp., Oedogonium sp., Pinnularia sp., Spirogyra sp., Stauroneis sp., Surirella sp., Synedra sp. and Zygnema sp. Ganga Lake recorded the highest 33 species while Bone Lake recorded the lowest 7 species. Bacillariophyceae was dominant representing 22 species while Chrysophyceae, Dinophyceae, Euglenophyceae and Klebsormidiophyceae recorded only 1 species each. We found slight variations in physical and chemical properties due to altitude. The conductivity ranged between 4µS/cm (Kyalem) to 60µS/cm (Bone); total dissolved solid ranged between 5mg/L (Sela) to 22mg/L (Mehao); pH between 6.8 (Mehao) to 9.3 (Hireng); dissolved oxygen ranged between 4.77 mg/L (Kyalem) to 15.4 mg/L (Hireng); free carbon dioxide between 0.23 mg/L (Ganga) to 1.2 mg/L (Nagula); alkalinity between 3.4 mg/L (Mehao) to 8.2 mg/L (Hireng) and hardness recorded was between 3.7 mg/L (Mehao) to 17 mg/L (Pegu). The present findings provide baseline data on phytoplankton distribution and water quality of different altitudinal lakes in the Arunachal Himalayan Region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research brings an input of information regarding the evolution of several physico-chemical parameters of two salt lakes (Lake Ocnei and Lake Rotund), part of the "Salina Turda" resort, Cluj County, Romania, by means of on-site determinations. Measurements were carried out at six depths for each sampling point. We attempted to describe the behaviors of the two lakes under different natural conditions, in order to identify the impact of anthropogenic activities on the quality parameters of the two lakes. Our studies showed that the qualitative parameters of the water fluctuate as an effect of anthropogenic activities. A comparative analysis of the results gathered during three monitoring campaigns in 2016, 2018, and 2020 indicated that water quality was affected by anthropogenic activities such as mixing water layers which were characterized by different salinity values. The lakes tended to lose basicity, pH values varying between 9 at the surface level and 7 at −4 m. The thermal stratification phenomenon was only evident in the first year of monitoring; later on, the waters of both lakes appeared thermally homogenous down to the depth of −2 m. It was determined that the lakes had an uppermost freshwater layer, which disappeared during the bathing season because of vertical mixing. Interestingly, the two lakes showcased different behaviors at depths beyond −3 m. In addition, the infiltration of meteoric water that was polluted with nitrites and nitrates demonstrated the fact that anthropogenic activities that take place in the vicinity of the lakes generate negative effects on water quality. The presence of the heliothermal phenomenon was confirmed by the measurements made in the upper segment of the lakes. This layer of water consists of a mixture of fresh and salt water. The purpose of the research was to evaluate the water quality of the lakes, monitor its evolution during the bathing season and update the situation regarding the water quality of the two salt lakes by testing specific parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, environmental water degradation all over the world comes about due to the growth of urban, industrial and agricultural activities. As a result of these discharges without any prior treatment, the quality of river waters in Kosovo has deteriorated greatly. On the basis of the research that has been done so far in the rivers of Kosovo, it was shown that Drenica is one of the rivers that are constantly exposed to the discharge of industrial waters. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to analyze the impact of water discharged from Feronikeli on the water quality of the Drenica River and the possibility of its protection. The realization of this study is focused on the evaluation of physico-chemical parameters of the water of the Drenica River, the content of heavy metals in the water, the analysis and comparison of the results obtained using the standard for the assessment of the ecological status of surface waters of Romania (GD 161). Laboratory assays were developed according to standard analysis methods (APHA). The results obtained, analyzed and compared with the values of the parameters according to the standard referred to in this research, confirm that the water of the Drenica River belongs to the class of water with "good quality" only in the source area, while in other flow stations river, especially in the third station S3 (Ferronikel industrial zone), water has "poor quality", passing into the category of "very poor quality". Therefore, in order to improve the current situation, it is recommended to apply the best environmental practices and proper management of industrial waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reviews the groundwater quality level, soil quality in the modern territory, and State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu Limited (SIPCOT) industrial areas. The groundwater quality level is focused on the different regions named as the Residential area, Residential with Part Industry which is mostly focused in Tamil Nadu, India. For the quality checking, the different physico-substance parameters are needed to be evaluated. The novelty of the paper is to review and study the groundwater quality levels with recharge zones in various regions. This study analyses the anthropogenic activities, rock—water interactions and hydro-geochemical process in the selected zone. After that, the quality of groundwater is to be monitored along with human health impacts, potentially harmful elements (PHEs), then the identification of groundwater recharge zones also computed in different areas. The main aim of the study is described about the importance of groundwater quality and their impacts. For that reason, the Water Quality Index (WQI) is used to determine the groundwater quality and Geographic Information System (GIS) technology is used to compute the accurate results of the groundwater recharge zones. As per the WQI index, the groundwater tests are conducted and validated the results with the World Health Organizations (WHO) guidelines. As per the standard tests and norms, the groundwater quality level is analyzed and predicted their soil quality in various States & Districts in India and compared with other countries also. The results of the study are finalized the majority of the parameters in the investigation region are inside as far as possible, the WQI recommends that water is reasonable for local purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red algae Chondracanthus acicularis (Roth) Frederiq is a carrageenophyte commercialized in Morocco. A biological study was done on three sites on the Moroccan Atlantic coast with different fishing intensities (SidiRahal, El Jadida, and SouiriaKdima) to evaluate the impact of physicochemical parameters on the algae distribution. Biometric studies (weight and size) were carried out on different thallus in addition to stereomicroscopic observations to identify fertile thallus. Additionally, measurements of physicochemical parameters and nutrients were conducted each month in situ and in the laboratory. This study's results showed that the highest biomass values were recorded in sampling sites characterized by optimal physicochemical and nutrient parameters, except for salinity. The highest biomass densities were recorded in April, February, and December at the Sidi Rahal site, El Jadida, and Souiria Kdima respectively. Minimum densities were recorded in December at the Sidi Rahal and El Jadida sites. While at SouiriaKdima, these minimum densities were recorded during October. The average thallus sizes were larger in Sidi Rahal relative to the other two sites. Minimum sizes were recorded during the winter period in the three studied sites. Conversely, maximum sizes were encountered in summer and early autumn. The thalli of C. acicularis were fertile during the winter season in the three studied sites showing a negative correlation with temperature and salinity. In conclusion, this study shows that indeed physicochemical parameters have a slight effect on the bioecological parameters. Furthermore, knowledge of the fertility period will allow establishing a management plan to conserve the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modern and rapid avenue for detecting pathogens provided by molecular genetic techniques including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was explored in the present study to identify prevalent disease pathogens, from six aquaculture farms and in two commonly cultured fish in Ghana. The specific detection was carried out directly on clinical samples of naturally infected fish (O. niloticus and C. gariepinus) based on syber-mix reaction protocol in traditional PCR. Molecular diagnostic techniques allowed the detection of the six most common and important bacterial pathogens in aquaculture farms in Ghana. Also, three of the pathogens (Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus iniae, and Staphylococcus aureus) were simultaneously isolated in a multiplex reaction. The results indicated 90–100% sensitivity and specificity for each of the six bacterial pathogens tested. Streptococcosis and motile aeromonad septicemia were found to be highly prevalent in most aquaculture farms in Ghana with severity in infections traced to the 85.7% and 14.9% co-infections with all six target pathogens in catfish and tilapia respectively. The prevalence rate of infections significantly correlated with variations in salinity, conductivity, and dissolved oxygen concentrations in the thermal stressed condition of the culture water. Multiplex techniques employed in this study represent one of the first to be used by a fish health laboratory in Ghana for rapid detection of pathogens in diseased fish and could be a useful alternative to the culture-based method for routine diagnosis of fish diseases in Ghana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Alibori River, which flows through Benin's cotton crop regions, receives surface water from much of the cultivated land that is situated along its banks. Chemical pollution in surface runoff from this land use threatens the ecological quality of the river. This study aimed to characterise the ecological status of the Alibori River under such agricultural pressures using biological indices and macroinvertebrate metrics. Water and macroinvertebrate samples were taken monthly from fifteen sites along the river between June 2015 and May 2016. The measured physico-chemical parameters and biological indices were subjected to descriptive statistics, bivariate correlations and partial least squares regression (PLSR). Taxonomic richness decreased from the upstream to the downstream reaches of the river. Sampling sites with high mineral content and organic load were home to more pollution-tolerant taxa, such as Chironomidae and Oligochaeta, with a high abundance of Thiaridae. Diversity indices reveal an unbalanced community and macroinvertebrate distribution characterised by the development of opportunistic taxa such as the gastropod Melanoides tuberculata. Decreases in taxonomic composition and community organisation between the upstream and downstream reaches of the river appear to be linked to less stable environmental conditions at the downstream sampling sites, and were compounded with a gradual increase in stress for organisms from the upper to lower reaches of the river. The composition, distribution and diversity characteristics of taxa collected is an indication that the ecological status of the Alibori River is under pressure, as a result of the agricultural activities along its banks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water is a fundamental resource for human survival but the consumption of water that is unfit for drinking leads to serious diseases. Access to high–resolution satellite imagery provides an opportunity for innovation in the techniques used for water quality monitoring. With remote sensing, water quality parameter concentrations can be estimated based on the band combinations of the satellite images. In this study, a hybrid remote sensing and deep learning approach for forecasting multi–step parameter concentrations was investigated for the advancement of the traditionally employed water quality assessment techniques. Deep learning models, including a convolutional neural network (CNN), fully connected network (FCN), recurrent neural network (RNN), multi–layer perceptron (MLP), and long short term memory (LSTM), were evaluated for multi–step estimations of an optically active parameter, i.e., electric conductivity (EC), and an inactive parameter, i.e., dissolved oxygen (DO). The estimation of EC and DO concentrations can aid in the analysis of the levels of impurities and oxygen in water. The proposed solution will provide information on the necessary changes needed in water management techniques for the betterment of society. EC and DO parameters were taken as independent variables with dependent parameters, i.e., pH, turbidity, total dissolved solids, chlorophyll– α , Secchi disk depth, and land surface temperature, which were extracted from Landsat–8 data from the years 2014–2021 for the Rawal stream network. The bi–directional LSTM obtained better results with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.2 (mg/L) for DO and an RMSE of 281.741 (μ S/cm) for EC, respectively. The results suggest that a hybrid approach provides efficient and accurate results in feature extraction and evaluation of multi–step forecast of both optically active and inactive water quality parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]