Mineral Water Research Articles

Boycotts and brand perception of mineral water affecting generation Z Muslim purchases

Purpose – This study aims to identify the determinants of purchasing decisions for bottled mineral water among generation Z Muslims in Indonesia, particularly in light of product boycotts. Methodology – The sample consisted of 189 respondents, with the criteria being generation Z Muslims in Indonesia who have made purchases of mineral water after the boycott actions against several mineral water brands in Indonesia due to the conflict between Israel and Palestine. Findings – Purchasing decisions for mineral water by generation Z Muslims in Indonesia are influenced by halal labeling, brand perception, and promotions related to social and ethical issues, including boycotts against certain brands. The analysis results indicate that consumers not only consider the quality and halal aspects of the product, but also actively respond to the values promoted by the brand, especially in relation to controversies involving brand affiliations with entities that do not align with Islamic principles. Implications – The mineral water industry needs to manage brand image and marketing strategies by considering the cultural and social values of consumers, particularly generation Z Muslims in Indonesia. With the growing awareness of ethical and political issues, the industry must ensure that its products meet quality and halal standards, as well as avoid associations with controversies that could trigger boycotts.Originality – This study integrates social and ethical aspects, such as responses to boycott actions and halal awareness, into consumer behavior analysis, providing a new perspective on understanding market dynamics influenced by cultural values and religious beliefs.

Colorimetric sensor array for sensitive detection and identification of bacteria based on the etching of triangular silver nanoparticles regulated by Cl- at various concentrations.

Acolorimetric sensor array isproposed for ultrasensitive detection and identification of bacteria by using Cl- at various concentrations as sensing elements and triangular silver nanoparticles (T-AgNPs) as a single sensing nanoprobe. T-AgNPs are easily etched by Cl-. However, in the presence of bacteria, the etching process will be hindered. Different bacteria have differential protective effects on T-AgNPs due to their interactions, resulting in different etching degrees of T-AgNPs by Cl-, and visual color changes. By adjusting the antagonistic action between bacteria protection on T-AgNPs and the etching by using Cl- at various concentrations, differentbacteria had their own color response patterns. Combined with linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis(OPLS-DA), the bacteria could be identified. Themethod was also used for bacteria mixtures identification and showed high sensitivity (OD600 = 1.0 × 10-6) for V. parahaemolyticus detection. Finally, the sensor array was successfully utilized in the identification of bacteria in pure and mineral bottled water. Themethod is low-cost, simple, sensitive, visual, and has potential application in point-of-care testing of bacteria.

The Legality of Surrogate Advertisement, and Its Infringements with Respect to Trademarks

Surrogate advertising is a contentious marketing strategy whereby companies promote restricted products, such as alcohol and tobacco, by advertising permissible goods like mineral water or soda that bear similar brand identities. This practice raises legal and ethical concerns as it often circumvents public health regulations designed to limit the promotion of potentially harmful products. In India, surrogate advertising is regulated by stringent laws, including the Cable Television Networks Act, 1995, the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003, and the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) Code. These regulations aim to restrict surrogate promotions that mislead consumers and blur distinctions between prohibited products and their associated brand extensions. This Article explores the legal framework surrounding surrogate advertising in India, highlighting how major brands like Kingfisher have effectively used surrogate products to maintain visibility and brand identity despite advertising restrictions and how the trademark has been infringed . It delves into the conflict between brand rights and public welfare, examining whether trademark holders have a positive right to freely use their trademarks in advertising or whether such rights are inherently limited by public policy considerations. By analyzing statutory guidelines, case law, and global standards such as the TRIPS Agreement, this study evaluates the balance between protecting public interests and preserving trademark rights in advertising practices, ultimately offering insights into potential policy reforms for mitigating the impact of surrogate advertising on consumer perception and public health.

Electrophoresis and Quartz Crystal Microbalance Instrumentation to Sense Nanoplastics in Water.

We report a Technical Note on detecting nanoplastics in water samples through electrophoresis and quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) instrumentation. We conducted electrophoresis experiments by immersing a QCM in a sample of ultrapure water containing polyethylene (PE) nanoplastics. It was interesting to observe that nanoplastics were attracted toward the QCM and adhered to one side of the QCM electrode. The attached particles introduced mass loading to the QCM and were characterized by a decrease in resonance frequency of the crystal. Furthermore, when a small region around the center of electrode was alone exposed for direct contact in water and the rest of the electrode was masked using photoresist, the nanoplastics were concentrated only in the exposed electrode region, significantly enhancing detection sensitivity. To further investigate the applicability for real-life water samples, we experimented with the technique with readily available bottled drinking water and mineral water, where we spiked these water samples with nanoplastics. It was observed that the resonance frequency shifts were significantly larger for samples with nanoplastics compared to samples without nanoplastics. In addition, Raman spectroscopy and microscopy imaging were used to further confirm the presence and locations of nanoplastics on the electrode surface. This study highlights the combination of electrophoresis and QCM effectiveness in detecting nanoplastics across different water types and their potential for broader applications in environmental monitoring.

Results of the experimental study of the antimicrobial activity of therapeutic waters from various wells managed by the federation of trade unions of Uzbekistan

Introduction. Currently, in addition to the traditional use of mineral waters (MW) for the treatment of gastrointestinal tract and renal diseases, they are also used to correct metabolic disorders, normalize lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. However, many of its properties remain poorly studied, and there is a very limited number of works in the scientific literature concerning the analysis of their antibacterial action. Aim. Study of sensitivity of common microorganisms to the action of some MW. Materials and methods. The following test samples from different wells (DW) served as materials for determining the antimicrobial activity of mineral waters: Sample 1. Sodium bicarbonate weakly alkaline mineral water from SW No. 7 (Chinobod Sanatorium, Tashkent); Sample 2. Radon mineral water mineral water from SW No. 2 (Abu Ali ibn Sino Sanatorium, Samarkand Region); Sample 3. Iodine-bromine mineral water from SW No. 4 (Chartak Sanatorium, Namangan Region); Sample 4. Sulfate-sulfur mineral water from SW No. 14 (Chimen Sanatorium, Fergana Region); Sample 5. Concentrated iodine-bromine brine from SCW No. 2 (Chartak Sanatorium, Namangan Region). Results and discussion. Sample No. 5 (concentrated brine) showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the diameter of the growth inhibition zone was 22 ± 0.26 and 18 ± 0.35 mm, respectively. Also, sample No. 4 (Sanatorium Chimen DW No = 14, sulfate-sulfur mineral water) showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, the diameter of the growth inhibition zone was 16 ± 0.11 mm. The samples did not show antimicrobial activity against the other test cultures. The antimicrobial action of water samples was determined by the agar diffusion method against some types of opportunistic bacteria: Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis and the yeast fungus Candida albicans. All microorganism cultures were obtained from the collection of the Institute of Microbiology of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The determination was achieved through the use of the agar diffusion method on a dense nutrient medium. Conclusion. It was found that sample No. 5 concentrated brine «Iodine-shifo» from the Chartak Sanatorium showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, i. e. Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the diameter of the growth inhibition zone was 22 ± 0.26 and 18 ± 0.35 mm, respectively. Also, sample No. 4 sulfate-sulfur mineral water from the Chimen Sanatorium showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, the diameter of the growth inhibition zone was 16 ± 0.11 mm. The samples did not show antimicrobial activity against the other test cultures.

Selenium Disulfide from Sustainable Resources: An Example of “Redneck” Chemistry with a Pinch of Salt

Selenium disulfide (often referred to as SeS2) encompasses a family of mixed selenium-sulfide eight-membered rings, traditionally used as an anti-dandruff agent in shampoos. SeS2 can be produced by reacting hydrogen sulfide (H2S) with selenite (SeO32−) under acidic conditions. This chemistry is also possible with natural spring waters that are rich in H2S, thus providing an avenue for the more sustainable, green production of high-quality SeS2 particles from an abundant natural source. The orange material obtained this way consists of small globules with a diameter in the range of 1.1 to 1.2 µm composed of various SexS8−x chalcogen rings. It shows the usual composition and characteristics of a Se-S interchalcogen compound in EDX and Raman spectroscopy. Since the mineral water from Bad Nenndorf is also rich in salts, the leftover brine has been evaporated to yield a selenium-enriched salt mixture similar to table salt. As the water from Bad Nenndorf—in comparison to other bodies of water around the world—is still rather modest in terms of its H2S content, especially when compared with volcanic waters, this approach may be refined further to become economically and ecologically viable, especially as a regional business model for small and medium-sized enterprises.

ANALISIS PENGARUH IKLAN PROMOSI TERHADAP KEPUTUSAN PEMBELIAN PADA PRODUK AIR MINERAL

Advertising is a form of promotion for a product or service, typically displayed in mass media such as television, newspapers, magazines, as well as on platforms like YouTube and social media, including Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. This study was conducted to analyze the impact of promotional advertising on purchasing decisions for Aqua mineral water products. The population included all consumers who have seen Aqua advertisements on any media, such as television or other social media, and consumers who have purchased Aqua mineral water, totaling 70 respondents obtained through an online questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. The method applied is quantitative, analyzed using SPSS version 26. The variables tested include Promotion (X) and Purchase Decision (Y). Research instruments were validated through validity and reliability tests. The analysis techniques used include correlation and simple linear regression tests, encompassing t-tests and determination tests. The correlation test shows a strong and positive relationship between variables X and Y. The regression test produced the equation Y = 8.045 + 0.628X, indicating that the promotion variable significantly influences purchasing decisions for Aqua mineral water. This finding implies that the company should focus on enhancing promotion efforts to boost product purchasing decisions.

Interdisciplinary Research for the Delimitation of Catchment Areas of Large Deep Karstic Aquifers: Origin of the Thermal Springs of Alhama de Aragon and Jaraba (Spain)

The integration of different sources of geological and hydrogeological information and the application of interdisciplinary methods have informed the origin of the thermal springs of Alhama de Aragón and Jaraba, as well as other associated semi thermal springs (1200 L/s of combined flow, 711 L/s at over 30 °C), which is the main objective of this article. These springs come mainly from the autogenous recharge that occurs in the Cretaceous calcareous outcrops that border the Almazán Basin to the north, both in the Ebro Basin (Jalón Valley) and in the Duero Basin. The aquifer, shaped by upper Cretaceous limestones under the Palaeogene and Neogene rocks of the Almazán Basin, has extensive depths of more than 4000 m in the NE sector. This hydrostratigraphic unit has been affected by a generalized pre-Paleogene karstification that provides the main porosity to the aquifer. The underground flow moves in a NW–SE direction, crossing the Duero–Ebro divide, favoured by the topographic difference in elevation between the two basins. The regional flow is coherent with the progressive increase in temperature, infiltrating recharge water age (about 20–25 years in the semi-thermal springs, and more than 60 years in the Alhama and Jaraba springs), mineralization, and flow of the springs through which the system discharges. This issue is key to being able to design any sustainable conservation strategy in terms of quantity and quality of resources within the recharge area of the most important thermal springs in Spain. The Jaraba and Alhama de Aragón hot springs share the same or similar temperature, chemical composition, and geological contact of the spring. Their tritium isotopic composition and its evolution over time are practically the same. Their isotopic composition in D and 18O is also very similar. Both springs share the same recharge zone of similar altitude and constitute the end of flow tubes of similar length and flow rate.

Enhancement of human native skin fibroblast proliferation in natural salso-bromo-iodic mineral water added to in vitro culture.

The favorable regenerative effects of some mineral waters on wound healing have long been empirically demonstrated. The aim of this experimental study is to investigate the effects of an Italian salso-bromo-iodic mineral water (Rivanazzano, Italy) on an in vitro human native fibroblast culture model to identify any potential regenerative actions. Human native fibroblasts were cultured under different experimental conditions: - Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM) reconstituted with distilled water (control); - DMEM reconstituted with filtered mineral water collected from the spring; - DMEM reconstituted with filtered mineral water collected at the balneotherapy facility; - DMEM reconstituted with filtered, heated mineral water collected at the balneotherapy facility; - DMEM partially replaced with filtered mineral water collected from the spring at different concentrations (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%); - DMEM partially replaced with filtered, heated mineral water collected at the balneotherapy facility at different concentrations (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%); - DMEM partially replaced with filtered mineral water collected at the balneotherapy facility at different concentrations (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%). Cell proliferation and viability were evaluated using spectrophotometric analysis following staining with the XTT Microculture Tetrazolium Assay. Statistical analyses were performed for each experimental condition at 24, 48 and 72 h. The best outcomes were observed in fibroblasts cultured with DMEM partially replaced with filtered mineral water collected from the spring, within the range of 20-50%. Our research results showed that Rivanazzano salso-bromo-iodic mineral water has a stimulating effect on in vitro human native fibroblast cultures. This activity was most pronounced with water collected from the spring, and it decreased with water collected at the balneotherapy facilities. These findings could form the basis for clinical applications in wound healing and balneotherapy.

Rapid oxidation of phenolic compounds by O3 and HO●: effects of the air–water interface and mineral dust in tropospheric chemical processes

Abstract. Environmental media affect the atmospheric oxidation processes of phenolic compounds (PhCs) released from biomass burning in the troposphere. To address the gaps in experimental research, phenol (Ph), 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (4-HBA), and vanillin (VL) are chosen as model compounds to investigate their reaction mechanism and kinetics at the air–water (A–W) interface, on TiO2 mineral aerosols, in the gas phase, and in bulk water using a combination of molecular dynamics simulation and quantum chemical calculations. Of the compounds, Ph was the most reactive one. The occurrence percentages of Ph, 4-HBA, and VL staying at the A–W interface are ∼ 72 %, ∼ 68 %, and ∼ 73 %, respectively. As the size of (TiO2)n clusters increases, the adsorption capacity decreases until n > 4, and beyond this, the capacity remains stable. A–W interface and TiO2 clusters facilitate Ph and VL reactions initiated by the O3 and HO⚫, respectively. However, oxidation reactions of 4-HBA are little affected by environmental media because of its electron-withdrawing group. The O3- and HO⚫-initiated reaction rate constant (k) values follow the order of A–WPh > TiO2 VL > A–WVL > A–W4-HBA > TiO2 4-HBA > TiO2 Ph and TiO2 VL > A–WPh > A–WVL > TiO2 4-HBA > TiO2 Ph > A–W4-HBA, respectively. Some byproducts are more harmful than their parent compounds, so they should be given special attention. This work provides key evidence for the rapid oxidation observed in the O3/HO⚫ + PhC experiments at the A–W interface. More importantly, differences in the oxidation of PhCs by different environmental media due to the impact of substituent groups were also identified.

Sustainable management of drinking water quality in the locality of Massouro, Chad

This study evaluates the quality of drinking groundwater in the city of Moussoro using geochemical, bacterial, and multivariate statistical methods. Access to safe drinking water is a major concern for the population in these regions, as the distribution of this resource is unequal across continents and is often affected by human activities, making it vulnerable. The analysis revealed two categories of water: potable and non-potable. The presence of pollutant indicators, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) and total coliforms, was observed in most samples. This presence indicates water contamination and requiring monitoring and treatment before it is consumed by the population. Overall, most of the physicochemical parameters comply with the World Health Organisation guidelines for drinking water. However, the concentration of ammonium (NH4+) was high. Pollution elements such as ammonium (NH4+) and E. coli, indicate that human activities also contribute to water mineralisation. The study could ensure sustainable access to safe drinking water, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life in Moussoro.

Sustainable Livelihood in Post-Disaster Tourism: Lesson Learned from Merapi Tourism Site

This research aims to explore the practice of the Sustainable Livelihood Tourism Framework (SLTF) in post-disaster management in the Mount Merapi area, Sleman, Yogyakarta. The focus of SLTF achievement in this study encompasses ecological, economic, sociocultural, and institutional dimensions. Research on the SLTF has indeed become a significant focus in tourism studies. However, most of these studies are confined to a single research methodology, resulting in limited scope and a lack of comprehensive discussion. This study used a mixed-method approach with an explanatory sequential design. The study found that tourism positively impacts the increase of economic activities in the community. However, on the ecological side, tourism presence degrades environmental quality due to issues such as carbon emissions, industrial waste, climate change, the greenhouse effect, illegal logging, and illegal mining. Furthermore, other policies were identified, such as mineral water mining permits that degrade the environment and the establishment of landfill sites in the Kaliurang area, which spoils the natural beauty. Tourism practices also have a negative impact on institutional aspects, as the community perceives government policies as too complex and not meeting their expectations. Lastly, in the socio-cultural aspect, tourism preserves traditional values, as tourists tend to respect them. This mixed-method approach underscores the need for balanced strategies that address environmental concerns while maximizing economic benefits, improving institutional involvement, and supporting socio-cultural enhancement.

Analysis of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Flows in a Rice-Growing Basin: The Case of the Maga Production Basin (Cameroon)

The availability of irrigation water has favored the development of agriculture in the Maga area, located in the Far North of Cameroon, with rice growing as the dominant agricultural activity. This activity is, however, known as a source of groundwater pollution through the infiltration of substances contained in inputs used for soil fertilization. The present study is a contribution to the analysis of the sources of contamination of the waters of the Maga rice basin by nitrogen and phosphate mineral compounds as well as the spatial distribution of these compounds. The monitoring of a network of fifteen wells and boreholes covering the rice-growing area during six campaigns made it possible to carry out the physicochemical characterization of subsurface and groundwater. The results obtained reveal that nitrates (NO3−) are present in water in low quantities, with averages per campaign ranging from 9.01 mg/L to 20.31 mg/L. On the other hand, ammonium (NH4+) and phosphates (PO43−) are in significant concentration. Their averages are of the order of 2.62 mg/L to 4.51 mg/L and then 0.65 mg/L to 5.58 mg/L for ammonium and phosphates, respectively. Mineral fertilizers used for soil amendment and degradation of organic matter, as well as the hydrolysis of minerals contained in the soil, contribute to the mineralization of water in the study area.

The effect of water filter pitchers on the mineral concentration of tap water.

To investigate the effect of water filter pitchers on the concentration of different minerals in tap water. Nine water filter pitchers (A-I) were chosen based on consumer preferences and Amazon reviews. Each filter was tested for its ability to modify the concentrations of fluoride, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium in tap water. Tap water samples were collected before and after filtration, at various intervals (1, 5, 10, 30, 50, 75, and 100 L) during filtration, and analyzed using an ion-specific electrode (fluoride) and atomic absorption spectrometry (other minerals). Statistical analyses were conducted to compare filtered and unfiltered water mineral concentrations. Water filter pitcher effect: Filters F (p < 0.001) and G (p = 0.030) decreased fluoride concentrations. All filters except I (p = 0.235) and H (p = 0.717) decreased calcium concentrations (p < 0.01). Filters E (p = 0.018), D (p = 0.014), and G (p = 0.010) decreased magnesium concentrations. Filters I (p = 0.028) and D (p = 0.009) increased potassium concentrations. Filter A (p = 0.002) increased sodium concentrations, while C (p = 0.034) decreased sodium concentrations. Effect of filter aging: All filters affected mineral concentrations over time but to varying extents. Filter G had the most pronounced effect on reducing mineral concentrations compared to all others. No filter was able to completely remove fluoride from tap water, contrary to the claims made by three manufacturers. The present study highlighted that water filter pitchers vary greatly in their ability to affect mineral concentrations in tap water during their use. Further research is needed to develop more effective water treatment solutions.

Radiological characterization related to lithology and risk assessment of bottled natural mineral water

The enhancement of natural radioactivity in groundwater, specifically in natural mineral water, is related to the lithological formations through which water bodies or courses pass. Although natural mineral waters are exempt from monitoring for radioactive substances according to Council Directive 2013/51/EURATOM, this study focuses on the radiological characterization of natural mineral water under Spanish Royal Decree 3/2023. The water studied was taken from Catalan aquifers with different lithological characteristics (sedimentary, metamorphic or granitic) and is sold on local markets. Moreover, radiological data on the water was correlated with its lithological origin and the health risk for different age groups was assessed. Our results showed that of the 26 natural mineral waters studied, 10 exceeded gross alpha screening value (100 mBq/L), all from granitic aquifers. Further research on natural individual radionuclides was conducted on these ten samples. 234U and 238U were at around 1100–1600 mBq/L. In addition, 210Pb was found in two samples, which also presented the highest 226Ra activity, associated with granitic bedrock and the presence of 210Po. The annual effective dose was 179.0 µSv/year and 145.9 µSv/year, exceeding 100 µSv/year mainly due to the contribution of 210Pb > 234,238U > 210Po > 226Ra, in this order. After assessing the lifetime cancer risk, these two samples were determined not to pose a health risk due to ingestion. Although no radiological monitoring is required for natural mineral water, further surveillance is recommendable.

Characteristics and genesis of high-quality metasilicate mineral water in Liaocheng City, Shandong Province.

Drinking natural mineral water often contains minerals and trace elements essential for human beings, such as strontium and silicon. As people's quality of life improves, so do their requirements for drinking water. Therefore, it is crucial to identify and develop high-quality groundwater that is rich in metasilicate and other minerals. The aim of this study is to reveal the distribution pattern and causes of high-quality metasilicate-rich groundwater in Liaocheng City through scientific methods, so as to provide a theoretical basis for the rational development and protection of mineral water resources. The results shown that Dong'e County was the main concentration area of high-quality metasilicate mineral water in Liaocheng City. The main reason for its high concentration of metasilicic acid was due to water-rock interaction. There was bedrock fissure water in the underlying water supply rock groups in Dong'e County, and the reaction between the metasilicate minerals in the rock groups and water was the main source of metasilicic acid. In addition, the development of fissures in the area provided a good storage and conductivity system for the enrichment of metasilicic acid in groundwater. Based on the analysis of hydrogeological conditions and the mechanism of formation of enriched areas, the enriched areas were divided into developable areas, protected and restricted development areas, and restricted development areas. The results of the study can lay a theoretical foundation for the systematic and scientific development, utilization, and protection of high-quality metasilicate mineral water in Liaocheng City.

The impact of temperature on the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in mineral waters originated from different wells: A predictive approach

This study aimed to evaluate the behavior of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PSA) in natural mineral water sourced from three different extraction wells and stored at various temperatures (10, 12, 20, 23, and 30 °C) to calculate the kinetic growth parameters of this microorganism through predictive modeling. The physicochemical characterization of waters was also evaluated at the time of collection, and included the analysis of 40 different minerals, and quality parameters such as pH, conductivity, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), total dissolved solids (TDS), salinity (PSU), and temperature (T). PSA survived in raw mineral water incubated at 12, 20, 23, and 30 °C; however, no growth was observed at 10 °C. Growth curves started with an initial population of ~ 2.5–3 log CFU/mL, and final PSA populations ranged from 3.5 to 4.9 log CFU/mL. The maximum specific growth rate (μmax) at 30 °C varied among the wells, with Well P-07 showing the highest growth rate (0.2 h−1), followed by Well P-08 (0.195 h−1) and well P-01 (0.133 h−1). At 12 °C, well P-01 exhibited the highest growth rate (μmax = 0.22 h−1), indicating a influence of mineral composition in the growth of PSA. The lag time (λ) also varied, with minimum values of 2.4 ± 0.1 h at 30 °C and maximum values of 41.6 ± 0.2 h at 12 °C. From these primary estimated parameters, it was possible to obtain five robust secondary models to describe the influence of temperature on the maximum growth rates and lag phase of PSA in the well. The estimated PSA growth parameters at 20 and 23 °C were subjected to a hierarchical cluster analysis and correlation plots to verify the influence of the physicochemical composition of the waters on the PSA behavior at each well's specific annual average temperature. This analysis confirmed a positive relationship (p < 0.05) between the presence of minerals (Ca, Fe, Sr, Mn, Na) and ions (SO4−3, Cl−) and the PSA lag phase time. These results underscore the need for tailored water quality management strategies that consider chemical composition and temperature to address specific microbial contamination risks.

Application of the GIS methods along with measured parameters to identify the NH4+ origin in the Hranice Karst (Czech Republic)

The study aims to determine the source of NH4+ ions in the mineral waters of the Hranice Karst. The study area is located in the eastern part of the Czech Republic, Europe. The area is known mainly for its carbon dioxide of deep origin; the gas was the factor that enabled the formation of hypogene karst, in the Palaeozoic limestones, as well as warm mineral waters. The limestones of the area are covered by Neogene (Miocene) sediments of variable thickness and lithology. Recurrent sampling was done at 36 sites. A total of 96 surface water samples, 65 borehole water samples and 96 karst water samples were assessed. Major anions, cations and the content of nitrogen and its forms were determined for all water samples. The soil types were characterised by a field pedological survey. The normalised difference vegetation index was calculated in QGIS and vegetation vitality was evaluated. Since places with remarkably low vegetation index were found to be linked to the occurrence of Miocene sandstones, they represent points of rather fast entry of rainwater into the ground. As the presence of carbon dioxide creates an anoxic setting underground, the entering nitrates are transformed into NH4+ ions. This mechanism of transformation within the nitrogen cycle explains the presence of NH4+ ions in areas with elevated CO2.

Determination of Heavy Metals, Nitrate and Nitrite in Mineral and Drinking Bottled Water in Tehran, Iran: a Health Risk Assessment by Monte-Carlo Simulation Method

Heavy metals, nitrate, and nitrite pose significant risks to public health and have raised substantial concern worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the content of nitrate, nitrite, and heavy metals, including Ba, Be, Ca, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, and Na, in 30 bottled water brands in winter and summer in Tehran, Iran. Heavy metal contents in the samples were analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES), and nitrate and nitrite contents were analyzed using Ion Chromatography (IC). Nitrate concentrations ranged from 0.28 to 38.87 mg/L, and nitrite contents ranged from 0.001 to 0.13 mg/L. The mean concentration of Ba, Ca, K, Li, Mg, Mn, and Na in the bottled drinking water brands were 11.30, 7874.40, 121.27, 2.52, 4960.49, 0.22, and 12321.70 μg/L; and in the bottled mineral water brands were 15.71, 12262.05, 166.38, 4.13, 3747.07, <LOD, and 3156.81 μg/L. The contents of Be and Mo in all brands were below the limit of detection. Nitrate and nitrite concentrations exceeded those specified on their labels in 50% of samples. Mg content in 4 brands and Na content in 10 brands were higher than the values listed on the labels. Furthermore, non-carcinogenic health risk assessment through bottled water consumption was estimated for Iranian children and adults. HQ values of nitrate, nitrite, Ba, Fe, Li, and Mn were less than one and acceptable. The results indicated that bottled water consumption cannot pose a significant health risk for Iranian adults and children.

Effect of drinking water temperature and mineral supplementation on pre and post-lambing behavior of Corriedale ewes and their newborn lambs.

Lamb mortality poses a serious challenge to the sheep industry, leading to immediate financial losses for livestock owners. Improvement of management practices, particularly through environmental enrichment, has been consistently linked to increased lamb survival and growth in both ewes and lambs due to its substantial impact on their behavior and overall welfare. In our study, we aimed to enhance ewe production and improve ewe behavior through the optimization of water temperature and the inclusion of mineral supplementation. To conduct our research, four distinct groups comprising 10 ewes each were formed based on body weight and parity. Our comprehensive study involved the observation of both pre and post-lambing behaviors in ewes, as well as the examination of lamb behavior. The pregnant ewes were monitored using video camera surveillance. For studying the pre-partum behavior, videos were thoroughly analyzed for 3h before parturition. For studying post-partum and lambing behavior, videos were analyzed for 3 days (24h per day). Notably, the group that received warm water and mineral supplementation exhibited a discernibly positive behavioral response. These findings illuminate a promising approach for improving ewe production while simultaneously reducing lamb mortality. Our research contributes valuable insights into the sheep industry, offering a pathway toward enhanced animal welfare, economic sustainability, and increased profitability for livestock owners.