Abstract: Research increasingly highlights jellyfish as a sustainable alternative to other animal species, particularly for its collagen, which has versatile applications in blue biotechnology. This review explores the properties of jellyfish-derived collagen, extraction techniques, and its diverse industrial applications based on current scientific literature. With a particular focus on research in the Mediterranean Sea, we underscore the role of the Order Rhizostomeae as jellyfish species with high collagen content and provide an overview of the main sources for jellyfish harvesting, including active fishing, by-catch, and aquaculture. In the Mediterranean basin, the blooming species Rhizostoma pulmo, Cotylorhiza tuberculata, and Rhopilema nomadica represent a valuable opportunity to harness their nutraceutical benefits, as well as their potential for the development of biomaterials in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Although jellyfish fishing is not yet well-established in the region, ongoing collaborative projects with fishermen’s guilds are focused on promoting circular and blue economy strategies to valorize jellyfish as an innovative resource. Additionally, jellyfish aquaculture emerges as a promising alternative for ensuring a sustainable supply, with the Rhizostomeae Cassiopea spp. demonstrating significant potential for biotechnological applications.

Abstract: Robust strains with high simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND) capabilities in hypersaline wastewater, particularly those containing different oxysalts are rarely reported. Here an isolated oxysalt-tolerant bacterium Marinobacter sp. showed excellent nitrogen removal capabilities of around 98% at 11% salinity of NaCl or oxysalts such as Na2SO4, Na2HPO4, NaHCO3, and NaNO3 through response surface methodology optimization. At > 5% salinities, Marinobacter sp. performed superior nitrogen removal performance in oxysalt-laden wastewater compared to chloride-based wastewater. In contrast, other SND strains including Pseudomonas sp. and Halomonas sp. experienced significant activity inhibition and even bacterium demise in oxysalt-rich wastewater, despite their high halotolerance to NaCl. The excellent SND activities of the oxysalt-tolerant strain were further validated using single and mixed nitrogen sources at 11% Na2SO4 salinity. Moreover, amplification of nitrogen removal functional genes and the corresponding enzyme activities elucidated the nitrogen metabolism pathway of the strain in harsh oxysalt environments.

Abstract: With the intensification of human activities, the water resource environment in the karst mountainous area of central Shandong has undergone significant changes, directly manifested in the cessation of karst spring flows and the occurrence of karst collapses within the spring basin in the Laiwu Basin. To support the scientific development and management of karst water, this study utilizes comprehensive analysis and deuterium-oxygen isotope test data from surveys and sampling of 20 typical karst springs conducted between 2016 and 2018. By integrating mathematical statistics, correlation analysis, and ion component ratio methods, the study analyzes the genesis, hydrochemical ion component sources, and controlling factors of typical karst springs in the Laiwu Basin. The results indicate that the genesis of karst springs in the Laiwu Basin is controlled by three factors: faults, rock masses, and lithology, and can be classified into four types: water resistance controlled by lithology, by faults ,by basement and by rock mass. The karst springs are generally weakly alkaline freshwater, with the main ion components being HCO3- and Ca2+, accounting for approximately 55.02% and 71.52% of the anion and cation components, respectively; about 50% of the sampling points have a hydrochemical type of HCO3·SO4-Ca·Mg. Stable isotope (δ18O and δD) results show that atmospheric precipitation is the primary recharge source for karst springs in the Laiwu Basin, and there is varying degrees of evaporative fractionation and water-rock interaction during the groundwater flow process, resulting in significantly higher deuterium excess (d-excess) in sampling points on the southern side of the basin compared to the northern side, indicating clear differentiation. The water-rock interaction during the karst groundwater flow process and human activities are the main controlling factors for the formation of hydrochemical components: the dissolution of carbonate rocks, mainly calcite, is the primary source of HCO3-, SO42-, Ca2+, and Mg2+; the dissolution of salt rocks and reverse cation exchange adsorption contribute to the weak surplus of Ca2+ and Mg2+ and the deficit of Na+ and K+ ions in karst springs; calculated saturation index (SI) values indicate that gypsum, aragonite, calcite, and dolomite in the springs are saturated, while the SI value of salt rock is unsaturated. The mixing of urban domestic sewage, agricultural planting activities, and the use of manure also contribute to the formation of Cl- and NO3- ions in karst springs.

Abstract: Groundwater is the main source of water for both domestic and agricultural use in arid regions. This study assessed the hydrogeochemical characteristics and suitability of groundwater for drinking and irrigation in Kenya’s Ewaso Ng’iro–Lagh Dera Basin. A total of 129 borehole samples were collected and analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total hardness, and major ions. The groundwater was found to be mostly neutral to slightly alkaline and ranged from marginal to brackish in salinity. The dominant water type is Na-HCO₃, with the ionic order Na⁺ > Ca²⁺ > Mg²⁺ > K⁺ and HCO₃⁻ > Cl⁻ > SO₄²⁻ > NO₃⁻. Mineral saturation indices indicate the water is undersaturated with gypsum and anhydrite, but saturated with calcite, dolomite, and aragonite. Groundwater chemistry is primarily influenced by ion exchange and rock weathering processes. The Water Quality Index (WQI) reveals that much of the groundwater is rated poor to unsuitable for drinking, largely due to high levels of sodium, EC, and bicarbonate. Similarly, the Irrigation Water Quality Index (IWQI) places most samples in the moderate to severe restriction category due to salinity and sodicity. These findings highlight the need for proper treatment before use.

Abstract: We have used a rapid, portable assay (Bacterisk) to determine bacterial water quality along several inland waters in SW England. Water samples were compared by conventional membrane filter and culture methods for faecal indicator bacteria (FIB; E. coli and enterococci) and endotoxin measurement by Bacterisk. The Bacterisk data, measured in near real-time, correlates well with both E. coli and enterococci, but also allowed the presence of potential pathogens of non-faecal origin to be detected. The sensitivity was calculated to be 92.96% with a specificity of 46.3% for E. coliwith an expanded uncertainty of 22.07% and an Endotoxin Risk detection limit of 25 units. The presence of Bacterisk detectable non-faecal pathogenic bacteria in the water samples was successfully confirmed by Illumina MiSeq sequencing followed by target species-specific qPCR. Sequencing showed the presence of pathogens including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Acinetobacter baumannii, Shigella spp, Legionella spp as well as antimicrobial resistance genes. Furthermore, the portable Bacterisk assay was able to acquire data on water quality from different locations and at different time points providing a comprehensive surveillance tool that challenges the time to results by conventional methods (minutes instead of days), yielding compatible results.

Abstract: The objective is to show that the known features of global average sea-level over the last 120,000 years can be accounted for by eleven periodic functions associated with planetary orbits – the hypothesis. The method shows that proxy data for relative global average sea-level during the last glacial cycle, with errors measured in meters, and a modern sea-level reconstruction based on tide gauges, with errors measured in millimeters, are accurately fit using these periods and a single constant. The eleven periods, sine and cosine for each, and constant correspond to twenty-three functions. Reasons for including each period are provided. The fit predicts a maximum in global average sea-level on date 9,726 with elevation 12 meters above the 1930 level. Reasonable variations of the input data also predict a maximum in global average sea-level between years 9,726 and 12,605.

Abstract: Baseflow, the portion of streamflow sustained by groundwater discharge, is crucial for maintaining river ecosystems. Irrigation practices could influence this interaction, with varying impacts depending on the irrigation practices. This study evaluates the impact of irrigation expansion on baseflows, considering the influence of weather-driven irrigation demand. The SWAT+gwflow model is applied to the San Antonio Catchment (225 km²) in Uruguay, a region dominated by intensive horticulture and citrus farming reliant on groundwater pumping. Irrigation expansion involves increasing the irrigated area from 6,193 to 8,561 hectares, which leads to an increase in average groundwater use from 2,247 to 2,835 hm³/yr. Model results predict that this expansion could cause annual groundwa-ter depletion of up to 1.2 m and a 2% reduction in annual baseflow. In addition, increased summer extractions lead to a delayed impact on winter baseflows, with monthly baseflow reductions of 90% during dry years, particularly in locations with high irrigation. These findings have implications for water management and policy, as current regulations overlook the interactions between groundwater and surface water and fail to account for variable irrigation water demand in high variable weather conditions.

Abstract: One of the major contributors to water pollution is food dye colorants, which in spite of being utmost toxic and may be carcinogenic due to their aromatic ring structures, are used invariable in many countries. Hence, the removal of such toxic food colorants from main stream waters is a matter of utmost priority. In the present communication, the efficacy of gamma radiations in degrading these food colorants was tested where the gamma radiolytic degradation and consequent decolouration of food grade dye Erythrosine was carried out using 60Co as a source. The effects of irradiation on efficacy of discoloration, pH, chemical oxygen demand (COD) and conductance were also studied. The rate and extent of degradation was found to be the direct function of irradiated gamma dose. The degradation of the Erythrosine follows pseudo-first order kinetics. Moreover the effect of addition of certain additives on the fate of degradation was also undertaken and was found to have varied effects.

Abstract: Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as a major pollutant in aquatic ecosystems, primarily originating from industrial activities and plastic waste degradation. Understanding their transport dynamics is crucial for assessing environmental risks and developing mitigation strategies. This study employs Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to model the trajectory of MPs in section B of the Salado Estuary in the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador, using ANSYS FLUENT 2024 R2. The transient behavior of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) particles was analyzed using the Volume of Fluid (VOF) multiphase model, k-omega SST turbulence model, and Discrete Phase Model (DPM) under a continuous flow regime. Spherical PET particles (5 mm diameter, 1340 kg/m³ density) were introduced at water velocities of 0.5 m/s and 1.25 m/s. Density contour analysis facilitated the modeling of the air-water interface, while particle trajectory analysis revealed that at 0.5 m/s, particles traveled 18–22.5 meters before sedimentation, whereas at 1.25 m/s, they traveled 50–60 meters before reaching the bottom. These findings demonstrate that higher flow velocities enhance MP transport distances before deposition, emphasizing the role of hydrodynamics in microplastic dispersion. This study underscores the potential of CFD as a predictive tool for assessing MP behavior in aquatic environments, contributing to improved pollution control and remediation efforts.

Abstract: A single paragraph of about 200 words maximum. For research articles, abstracts should give a pertinent overview of the work. We strongly encourage authors to use the following style of structured abstracts, but without headings: (1) Background: Place the question addressed in a broad context and highlight the purpose of the study; (2) Methods: briefly describe the main methods or treatments applied; (3) Results: summarize the article’s main findings; (4) Conclusions: indicate the main conclusions or interpretations. The abstract should be an objective representation of the article and it must not contain results that are not presented and substantiated in the main text and should not exaggerate the main conclusions.

Abstract: This research investigates the adsorption potential of four types of absorbents produced from agro-industrial waste (grape pomace - GP, tree pruning - TP, sugarcane bagasse - SB and eucalyptus sawdust - ES) for the uptake of Methylene Blue (MB) dye from aqueous solution. A kinetic model based on a hybrid-order rate equation was fitted to experimental data. The result showed that from the biochars obtained in dry torrefaction at 300 ºC - 60 min, BGP-300 presented the highest mass yield (58.84%) and energy yield (69.56%), followed by the BTP-300 > BES-300 > BSB-300. Adsorption studies showed that BGP-300 had a better performance in the uptake of MB, with removal efficiency (R_e) of 96.5% and adsorption capacity at equilibrium (q_e) of 9.3 mg g-1, followed by tree pruning biochar (BTP-300), R_eof 65.0% and q_eof 5.3 mg g-1. Whereas eucalyptus sawdust (BES-300) and sugarcane bagasse (BSB-300) biochar did not provide significant removal of MB. Adsorption kinetic is best described by second order rate with R² varying from 0.75 to 0.96. Desorption studies show a low concentration released to the solution, indicating that adsorption may occur physically. Therefore, this research provides comprehensive insights into the adsorption characteristics of different biochar, emphasizing the potential of BGP-300 and BTP-300 as effective for MB uptake from aqueous solution.

Abstract: The China–Mongolia arid region adjacent to the Altai Mountain (CMA) has a sensitive ecosystem that relies heavily on both terrestrial water (TWS) and groundwater storage (GWS). However, during the 2003–2016 period, the CMA experienced significant glacier retreat, lake shrinkage and grassland degradation. To illuminate the TWS and GWS dynamics in the CMA and the dominant driving factors, we employed high-resolution (0.1◦) GRACE (Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment) data generated through random forest (RF) combined with residual correction. The downscaled data at a 0.1° resolution illustrate the spatial heterogeneity of TWS and GWS depletion. The highest TWS and GWS decline rates were both on the north slope of the Tianshan River Basin (NTRB) of the Junggar Basin of Northwestern China (JBNWC) (28.39 mm/yr and -32.17 mm/yr, respectively). Human impact played a primary role in TWS decreases in the JBNWC, with a relative contribution rate of 61.88% compared to the climatic contribution (38.12%). A notable shift—from climatic (2002-2010) to anthropogenic factors (2011-2020)—was observed as the primary driver of TWS decline in the Great Lakes Depression region of western Mongolia (GLDWM). To maintain ecological stability and promote sustainable regional development, effective action is urgently required to save essential TWS from further depletion.

Abstract: The combination of the catalytic properties of Al2O3/TiO2 formed an efficient system to degrade the ubiquitous pollutants TPA and PET. The coating (Al2O3)0.75TiO2 was characterized by X-ray diffraction. Stainless steel disks with photo-catalyst coating were placed transversely in a 3.0-L vertical glass reactor with ascending airflow for supplying oxygen to the reaction medium and visible light lamps for photo-activation. The analysis of the coating homogeneity, morphology and particle size distribution of the TiO2 coatings and (Al2O3)0.75TiO2 system were confirmed by SEM. Optical properties and band-gap energy were calculated by using the Tauc equation. UV-Vis spectrophotometry (UV-Vis) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) were the quantitative techniques to measure the reduction of the initial TPA and PET concentrations.

Abstract: We construct a Bayesian estimator for the dilution of a wastewater sample, and use it to estimate the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in Wales using data from the Welsh Government Wastewater Monitoring Programme. In Wales wastewater is diluted by rainwater so an estimate of the level of dilution is required if we are to normalise sample measurements of disease markers such as SARS-CoV-2 RNA. We consider the situation where flow measurements are available, but will regularly be unreliable because of the action of combined sewer outflows (CSOs) and wastewater storage tanks, which divert wastewater away from treatment plants when the flow is excessive. However, we also have proxies for the flow from various chemical markers (e.g.\ phosphate, ammonium, electrical conductivity), whose level per unit of population is fixed. The new flow estimator has multiple advantages compared to existing procedures: credible intervals for the estimates; optimal weighting of the chemical markers; systematic handling of missing and censored values; and model based smoothing without lags.

Abstract: Ferrochrome pollution, a by-product of the ferroalloy industry, is emerging as a significant environmental concern due to its potential to contaminate groundwater resources. This contamination occurs primarily through the leaching of heavy metals, such as chromium, into the soil and water systems. The presence of chromium in groundwater poses serious risks to both ecosystems and human health. In aquatic ecosystems, elevated chromium levels can disrupt the balance of microbial communities, affect biodiversity, and harm aquatic organisms. For humans, long-term exposure to chromium-contaminated groundwater is associated with a range of health issues, including carcinogenic effects, skin rashes, respiratory problems, and potential damage to vital organs. The widespread use of groundwater for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes exacerbates the risks to public health. This paper explores the sources, pathways, and mechanisms of ferrochrome contamination, examines its impact on groundwater ecosystems, and highlights the health consequences for affected populations. Strategies for mitigating ferrochrome pollution, including treatment technologies and policy interventions, are also discussed to help safeguard both environmental and public health.

Abstract: Water scarcity is a growing global challenge, with agriculture being the largest consumer of freshwater resources. The increasing demand for food production necessitates innovative approaches to enhance water efficiency while ensuring sustainability. This review critically examines sustainable agricultural practices and the application of linear programming (LP) in optimizing the agricultural water footprint. Key aspects such as crop selection, land allocation, irrigation strategies, and water resource management are analyzed to assess their impact on water use efficiency. By synthesizing findings from recent studies, this paper highlights how LP-based optimization models can improve water conservation, maximize crop yields, and promote environmentally sustainable agricultural systems. The review also identifies existing gaps in research and underscores the need for integrated, data-driven solutions to address water resource challenges. The findings emphasize the transformative potential of combining sustainable practices with mathematical modeling to enhance agricultural resilience and ensure long-term food security in water-scarce regions.

Abstract: From the urban sustainability perspective and from the steps essential for regulating/balancing the microclimate features, creation and maintenance of urban green spaces (UGS) are vital. The UGS include vegetation of any kind in urban areas such as parks, gardens, vertical gardens, trees, hedge plants, and roadside plants. This “urban green infrastructure” is a cost-effective and energy saving means for ensuring sustainable development. The relationship between urban landscape patterns and microclimate needs to be sufficiently understood to make urban living ecologically, economically, and ergonomically justifiable. In this regard, information on diverse patterns of land use intensity or spatial growth is essential to delineate both beneficial and adverse impacts on urban environment. With this background, the present study aimed to address water requirements of UGS plants and trees during the non-rainy months from Panaji city (Koppen classification: Am) situated on the west coast of India which receives over 2750 mm rainfall almost exclusively during June-September period. In the remaining eight months irrigating the plants in the UGS becomes a serious necessity. The methods followed included primary (field survey-based) and secondary (inputs from key-informant survey questionnaires) data collection address water requirement of the UGS vegetation. Monthly evapotranspiration rates (ET₀) derived in this study were used for calculating the water requirement of the UGS. The daily water requirements (DWR) in seven gardens of Panaji city were ~ 25 litres/tree, 6.77 litres/m² hedge plants and 4.57 litres/m² groundcover (=lawns). The water requirements for the entire UGS in Panaji city were calculated. Using this information, the estimated total daily volume of water required for the entire UGS of 1.86 km² in Panaji city is 7.10 million litres. The day-night average ET₀ being over 8mm, there appears to be an imminent water stress in most UGS of the city in particular during January-May period. The current supply from borewells of 64200 L vis a vis this ET0 based DWR of 184086 L is at a shortage of over 2.88 times far inadequate in meeting the daily demand of hedge plants and lawn/groundcover.

Abstract: In this study, a self-propelled hard hose traveler is designed based on the traditional hard hose traveler. The traveler demonstrated enhanced field applicability and intelligence level in Europe and central-eastern China. A parametric configuration scheme was attained through the irrigator’s computational modeling and experimental validation. This study proposed a uniform water distribution calculation model for single-sprinkler linear-move irrigation. The deviation rate between calculated and experimental values was 7.3%. The average application depth decreased with increased sprinkler motion speed and path spacing. The uniformity of water distribution (CU value) exhibited an oscillating trend as the path spacing varied. When moving along a specific path, the CU value increased and decreased with the increased sprinkler rotation angle. By combining irrigation and sprinkler motions, the CU value decreased and increased with the increased sprinkler rotation angle. The combined sprinkler and irrigation motions showed a significantly better effect than the specific path irrigation. The highest CU value was 95.0%, with a nozzle diameter of 16.0×6.0 mm2, a sprinkler rotation angle of 180°, and a path spacing of 1.6 R.

Abstract: Water security has become a pressing issue in Central Asia due to increasing climate variability, rising water demand, and geopolitical challenges surrounding transboundary river management. This paper examines the complexities of water resource governance in the region, emphasizing the interplay between national interests and regional cooperation. Using the Regional Security Complex Theory, we analyze how social, economic, environmental, and political factors influence water diplomacy among Central Asian states. Key challenges include water scarcity, climate change impacts, the development of the Kushtepa Canal in Afghanistan, and the growing tensions over transboundary river basins, particularly in the Aral Sea basin. The intricate linkages between water, energy, and agriculture further complicate decision-making processes among riparian nations. While recent diplomatic efforts signal a shift towards enhanced regional cooperation, existing agreements remain fragmented, and a sustainable, long-term governance framework is still lacking. This study underscores the importance of an integrated, basin-wide approach to transboundary water management. We argue that a cohesive regional water strategy—grounded in international legal frameworks and supported by collaborative governance mechanisms—can mitigate conflicts and promote water security in Central Asia. Strengthening institutional capacity, leveraging technological innovations, and incorporating Afghanistan as an upstream stakeholder are critical steps toward a more resilient and cooperative water governance model.

Abstract: This study identifies different polymers using their fluorescent data under various light wavelengths that ranged from 245 nm to 345 nm in 10 nm intervals. The primary goal of this sensor proposal is to select optimal wavelengths that can lead to accurate identification of six polymers: polyamide 6 (PA6), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). By examining the specific fluorescence emission patterns of these polymers, the study provides insight into how each material responds uniquely to different excitation light sources. The potential approach could streamline polymer identification in recycling applications or even in quality control and environmental monitoring including microplastics. A lab-on-a-chip device for microplastics identification is proposed in this work. This approach could lead to improved accuracy in polymer classification, contributing to more efficient material sorting and processing.