bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
"Reliable in-Situ Sensing of Water Quality Parameters Using Low Cost Autonomous Analysers - Opportunities and Challenges"
Authors: Diamond Dermot , Donohoe Andrew , Hazel Cameron , McCluskey Peter , McCaul Margaret
Published: November 2022

The delivery of platforms that can provide access to good quality analytical information on the chemical/biological status of water at an acceptable cost remains a formidable challenge, despite considerable efforts from the research community over many years. The relatively high cost of autonomous analytical platforms means that measurement frequency and density is much lower than desirable, and this in turn is a significant barrier to developing a clearer understanding of environmental status, processes and dynamics, and to the effective policing of environmental regulation.

However, recent advances in satellite remote sensing and drone based measurements present opportunities to capture water status data with unprecedented spatial and temporal coverage. The availability of autonomous instruments that provide continuous in-situ data provides complementary information that in a sense completes the requirements for a more complete environmental informatics coverage in that these devices can provide molecular information on related to key determinants of water chemical and biological status.

In this paper, I will outline the challenges that have up to now inhibited the emergence of these low-cost, reliable, autonomous biochemical analysers, and explain how developments in rapid prototyping, microfluidics and detection schemes will provide routes to surmounting these challenges. Furthermore, I will discuss how coupling in-situ sensing with satellite remote sensing will, in many instances, reduce the density requirement on in-situ sensors for tracking and modelling water chemistry dynamics.
The Effect of Different Parameters on Electrochemical Removal of Ampicillin Using New Generation Sn/Sb/Ni-Ti Anodes
Authors: Kurt Ayşe , Yonar Taner , Shakir Fener , Helvacıoğlu Hande , Neşelen Esra
Published: November 2022

In this study, it was aimed to investigate the feasibility of new generation and stable Sn/Sb/Ni-Ti anodes for treatment of wastewater containing Ampicillin (AMP) antibiotic by electrochemical oxidation processes. Ampicillin concentration was 0.05 g L-1 in the aqueous solution. Residual ampicillin conc. was measured with Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) – Photodiode Array Detector (PDA). While, several parameters were evaluated such salt type and concentration, pH, current density, and anode-cathode distance; salt type and concentration was found as the most effective parameter for the removal of COD, TOC and AMP. Two different type of salts were used for this purpose; sodium chloride (NaCl) and potassium chloride (KCl). However, the removal efficiencies were found more higher in the presence of potassium chloride (KCl) when compared to sodium chloride (NaCl), generally. In the presence of KCl, ≥99% removal of COD and AMP after 60 min, pH 8, 50 mA/cm2, 750 mg/L and 1cm distance between anodes. However, in the presence of sodium chloride (NaCl), complete removal of COD and AMP after 90 min, pH 8, 50 mA/cm2, 2500 mg/L and 1cm distance between anodes.
Assesment Of Green Campuses For Sustaınable Cities And Society With UI Green Metrics: A Case Study Of Duzce University
Authors: Gültekin Pınar , Canik Gülcab
Published: November 2022

Sustainability is a very important subject for universities.This situation concerning with size of area that they have, number of students, academicians, administrative staff, their excessive consumption of energy and materials. Related to these conditions, Universities have big impacts on enviroment and nature either explicit or implicit. Certain leading universities have performed comprehensive projects to develop sustainability of the campuses. To understand and assess the efficient sustainability of campuses and universities, lots of evaluation tools have been improved. In this research, Green Metric Index has been used which was developed by Indonesia University in 2010. This model is one of the most used in the world and evaluates the sustainability of the campuses.This tool uses six main criteria: Setting and Infrastructure (SI), Energy and Climate Change (EC), Waste (WS), Water (WR), Transportation (TR) and Education (ED). Each of the six main categories is described by several indicators and these define the significant issues of sustainability. In this article with use of observational analyses, Konuralp Campus of Düzce University has been evaluated with using Green Metric Index in terms of Sustainable Campus.In consequence of the research, positive and negative conditions in terms of Green Metrics have been determined and provided suggestions have been developed.
ADVANCED INSTRUMENTAL ODOUR MONITORING SYSTEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ODOUR CONTINUOUS MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL IN COMPLEX INDUSTRIAL PLANTS
Authors: Meloni Marco , Zarra Tiziano , Pittoni Gianluca , Naddeo Vincenzo , Belgiorno Vincenzo
Published: November 2022

Odour emissions from complex industrial plants can cause potential impacts on the surrounding areas and, as consequence, complaints with the local residents. The identification of specific Odour control plan is therefore needed in the plant management. The current challenge is the definition of instrumental odour monitoring systems (IOMS) that allow the continuous odour characterization. No regulation or standardized procedure exist at present. Limited data are available in the literature with reference to the characteristics and operational procedure of this systems for the environmental odours monitoring.
The study presents a novel prototype of intelligent and integrated IOMS for the continuous classification and quantification of the odours emitted in ambient air by complex industrial plants, with the scope to control the plants emissions in an objective and continuous manner, thus avoiding odour impact. Research studies are validated through an application to a real case study on a petroleum refinery. The architecture and the principal components of the IOMS are highlighted. The operational procedures are presented and discussed. Results highlights the importance and the flexibility of the proposed IOMS in the odour monitoring. Real-time and accurate information are provided by the system about the source and concentration of the odour emissions.
Quality improvement of collected rain waters by elimination of micropollutants, to sea site settlements with the use and new technologies, as suitable vegetation.
Authors: Kollias Panagiotis , Kollias Vassilis , Kollias Spyridon
Published: November 2022

The continuous increase of water necessities to sea site settlements, created the problem to pursues the collection of rain waters in order to use them, after their treatment to succeed the necessary quality improvement. To realize that we need at first to mark the invented water sources to the neighboring area of the serviced district, in order to collect the necessary water quantities, for the covering of the existing necessities. One part of the sustained pollution is removed from the water treatment installations and another remain to the natural medium.
Further treatment include the abstraction of pollutants by natural mechanisms, as from biodegradation, photolyse, votalisation, adsorption, degradation, fixation from vegetables, that are foreseen co be installed downstream from water treatment installations.
Further water treatment will include rain water coming from roofs and other waters from country side areas, where will be collected enough water quantities. The water will be treated with conventional methοds, in order to succeed the foreseen quality and then follow their transfer to ZONES of REGECTION WITH SUITABLE VEFETATION (ZRV). In order to have better treatment results.
These include the elimination of micropollutants from the water phase, as also other pollutants traces, with tendency to arrive to the best quality of water for human consumption.
Energy and environmental aspects of distributed generation and electric-vehicle integration from a LCA perspective. A case study in Mendoza, Argentina
Authors: Arena Alejandro
Published: November 2022

The energy sector is moving from a rigid, concentrated system towards a flexible, decentralized one enabling the exchange of energy between many actors. Distributed renewable energy generation is a key player in this new system, offering many advantages, but their intermittent character and the lack of synchronicity between demand and supply introduce new challenges to the utilities. Storage systems could help mitigating these negative issues, but they require additional costs, and incorporate new environmental problems.
Another key player in the new energy sector will be represented by the growing number of electric vehicles which are populating the urban space, which will challenge the system trying to charge their batteries. However, these vehicles will remain idle most of the time, thus offering an opportunity to electricity storage on their underutilized batteries.
In this paper the environmental consequences of distributed FV generation and storage in electric vehicles in Argentina are explored, following a life cycle perspective. Results show that the Vehicle-to-Grid and Grid-for-Vehicle management strategies will play an important role on demand curve peak-shaving. The scenarios analysis show that the transition to the electric vehicle alone does not ensure lower emissions, if advances in the electricity decarbonization are not accomplished.
Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): an emerging contaminant
Authors: Toskos Theodoros , Panagiotakis Iraklis , Dermatas Dimitris
Published: November 2022

PFAS compounds are ubiquitous in the environment and in consumer products. Unlike other emergent contaminants this is a family of compounds with, literally, thousands of compounds. Our knowledge of toxicological and environmental fate and transport properties is an evolving field. On the other hand, regulatory limits (when they exist) are extremely low and address only a limited handful of compounds. Regulatory standards are limited to drinking water or groundwater, but investigators are required, and need to address the entire pathway from source to receptor. In addition, because of their physical-chemical properties there are unconventional migration pathways, such as sewer exfiltration and biosolids residuals, that complicate site assessment and site closure. Surveys to date in Greece are fragmented and very limited in scope and focus. The objective of this study is to discuss how professional judgement should be used to collect appropriate data to both define the nature and extent of impact and to assess whether receptors may be adversely impacted and how to select an appropriate remedy, if mitigation of those impacts is warranted. These evaluations are grounded upon an understanding of the physical and chemical PFAS properties, their fate and transport in environmental media, potential health effects and approaches and limitations to setting remediation goals. The concepts of a systematic approach to characterize the occurrence of PFAS in Greece and of a national characterization program, built on the experience of European Union and other countries, which takes into account key aspects of use and disposal, will also be presented.
Optimization of decentralized treatment and sanitation of domestic wastewaters via constructed wetlands: The DOMUS_CW project
Authors: Ntaikou Ioanna , Antonopoulou Georgia , Vyrides Ioannis , Drakopoulos Vasilios , Dailianis Stefanos , Lyberatos Gerasimos
Published: November 2022

The DOMUS_CW project proposes the adoption of a simple, cost efficient and highly effective practice for the treatment of domestic/household wastewaters in rural areas of Balkan and Mediterranean (BalkanMed) countries, i.e. treatment via constructed wetlands (CWs). Two free surface flow CWs constructed in one Greek and one Cypriot community, were upgraded in order to serve as case studies to be further optimized via modeling. Through the systematic and detailed monitoring of the two CWs their operational efficiency was evaluated, and the response to operational factors that have not been extensively studied yet, such as supply variations and recirculation, were recorded and incorporated into the model. In addition, the effect and fate of xenobiotics, the interactions among plants and microorganisms, the toxic potency of effluents an the cropping frequency were evaluated aiming to the better understanding and thus further improvement of the operation of the systems. An exploitation plan for CW effluents and plant biomass is also proposed investigated, aiming at the recovery of water and nutrients, contributing thus to the European goals for Sustainable Development. The main outcome of the project is the creation of a generic assessment tool, a model platform via which the feasibility of CW technology application in different sites could be evaluated based on minimal initial data.
Seasonal variation and spatial distribution of arsenic in groundwater in a rhyolithic volcanic area of Lesvos Island, Greece
Authors: ZKERI EIRINI , ALOUPI MARIA , GAGANIS PETROS
Published: November 2022

A research conducted in water wells located in the rhyolithic volcanic area of Mandamados, Lesvos Island, Greece, indicated that significant seasonal variation of arsenic concentration in groundwater exists mainly in wells near the coastal zone. However, there were differences among those coastal wells with regard to the processes and factors responsible for the observed seasonal variability of the element, although they are all located in a small homogeneous area. On the other hand, in wells located in higher relief regions, the concentration of As in groundwater followed a fairly constant pattern throughout the year, which is probably related to the faster flow of groundwater in this part of the area due to a higher hydraulic gradient. In general, seasonal variation of As in groundwater in the study area was found to be related to geology, recharge rate, topography—distance from coast, and well depth.
Trace Metals In Water And Soils In The Vicinity Of A Small – Medium Waste Electrical And Electronic Equipment Recycling Plant
Authors: ZKERI EIRINI , Tzoraki Ourania , Lasithiotakis Michael , Sinioros Panagiotis
Published: November 2022

A research conducted in order to investigate the environmental impact of an e-waste recycling plant to the soil and water resources of the surrounding area. Therefore trace elements in both water and soil samples were determined with Inductively Coupled Plasma – Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Heavy metals in water comply with drinking water criteria, except Pb. Pb, Concentrations of Pb, Cr, Ni, Cu, Mn, Zn were higher in the rainwater collection tank (43.50, 10.90, 18.87, 81.17, 177.99, 330.17 μg/L) than the surficial water inside (8.93, 1.27, 4.97, 17.0, 91.87, 72.97 μg/L) and outside the plant (4.18, 1.28, 1.60, 10.35, 26.21, 12.10 μg/L). Ecological risk of soil samples was assessed with Enrichment Factors. Enrichment factor, for soils showed low to moderate enrichment. The more enriched soil samples in Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd and Hg were two collected west of the company S19 and S20 and two samples collected east S9 and S10.
Regional Variability and Future Trends in Carbon Footprints of Electric Vehicles in China based on THEMIS Model
Authors: Hertwich Edgar , Wang Can , Wu Ziyang , Wolfram Paul , Sun Xin , Sun Fu
Published: November 2022

This study analyses how carbon footprints of electric vehicles (EVs) in China vary across regions and how they may evolve with power decarbonisation. It is understood that carbon footprints of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) depend largely on electricity mixes, but few studies have quantified their interregional divergence and future changes in China. Using THEMIS model as an integrated LCA framework, together with future electricity mixes from MESEIC, a cost optimisation model for the power sector, we calculate current and future carbon footprints of passenger vehicles in China. Results show that, carbon footprints of BEVs across all the 6 regions will drop from 265-419 gCO2e/km in 2017 to 116-383 gCO2e/km in 2050, or 141-266 gCO2e/km, with stringent carbon constraints applied to the power sector. The interregional divergence of BEV carbon footprints will shrink by 20% in the latter scenario. Under carbon constraints, BEV carbon footprints in East, Central, Northwest, and South will have their best-case reduction potentials, by 55%, 55%, 46%, and 5% respectively. Stringent carbon constraints lead to increased share of coal-based generation in North and Northeast, whose most favourable reduction potentials will be 42%, and 69%, respectively, when no carbon constraints exist.
Indoor and outdoor environment impact over the generic conditions for thermal bridge appearance
Authors: Ivanov Martin , Mijorski Sergey
Published: November 2022

The presented study considers the numerical modelling of a thermal bridge distribution, based on conjugated heat transfer and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model of approximated external concrete wall. The thermal bridge distribution is cross-analyzed relative to the indoor and outdoor air parameters, under the corresponding structure’s thermal properties. The main analyzed parameters in the study are the surface temperature on the exterior wall, outdoor air temperature and wall thermal conductivity. The integrated modeling results show the complex environmental impact over the generic conditions for the thermal bridge existence. The further analyses will include the relative humidity and dew point temperature impact over the thermal bridge distribution. These additional parameters may be used for moisture accumulation indicator, in the developed numerical model.
A method to extract microplastics from river sediments (bed, bank and floodplain)
Authors: Prume Julia , Schömann Eva-Marie , Chifflard Peter , Koch Martin
Published: November 2022

Identifying and quantifying microplastics in the environment is fundamental to develop effective mitigation strategies. So far, microplastic research has focused on marine environments and large streams. However, smaller rivers, often adjacent to waste sources as agricultural areas and waste water treatment plants, might play an important role in the entry of microplastics into marine habitats. To precisely assess microplastic pollution and to identify sources, it is the aim of our ongoing research to map the Hessian river Lahn, a confluent to the Rhine, in high-resolution. As river sediments can contain more biologic components (like roots) than marine sediments, a somewhat different methodology is required. Here, we present a methodological protocol to detect microplastics in the river bed, river bank and wetlands. The protocol comprises a density separation via MPSS, sieving and filtration steps, detection of microplastics via the fluorescent dye Nile Red and a polymer identification by means of ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. First results of microplastic pollution indicate a function of this confluent river as (possibly temporary) sink for microplastics of terrestrial origin.
Plastic Litter Project 2018: a feasibility study on detecting plastics in the aquatic environment using drones and satellite images
Authors: Topouzelis Konstantinos , Papakonstantinou Apostolos , Garaba Shungudzemwoyo , Doukari Michaela , Chatziantoniou Andromachi , Spondylidis Spyros
Published: November 2022

Plastic litter has been shown to pose a significant problem in the marine environment and the food chain at all trophic levels. Within the scope of Plastic Project 2018, we investigated the prospective use of imaging technology on airborne and spaceborne platforms in detecting floating plastic litter. Three artificial targets of plastic litter were prepared using PET-1water bottles, LDPE plastic bags and nylon fishing ghost nets. Each target measured 10 m x 10 m fixed by a PVC frame to prevent spillage as well as to make an aggregated target. We evaluated the derived spectral reflectances of these plastic litter targets gathered from the airborne (drone) and spaceborne (Sentinel-2) images. Improved geo-referencing of the high geo-spatial resolution (resampled 10 m) Sentinel-2 images was achieved by utilizing excellent geospatial resolution (<0.03 m) drone images. Further analysis involved determining accurate pixel coverage of each target with future application in quantification efforts. Of the three plastic litter targets, it was noted that the plastic bottles had the highest spectral reflectances that were measured by the Sentinel-2 mission image. The experiment showed that Sentinel-2 satellites could be used to detect marine plastics when they cover a large area. The Sentinel-2 NIR band can significantly contribute to marine litter detection and the water content partly influence the behaviour of spectral values.
Prediction of electricity prices
Authors: Sedlacek Pavel , Lancosova Elena
Published: November 2022

The aim of this paper is to analyse time series that might have an impact on prices of energy commodities. Analysis and econometric modelling reveal which time series are corelated and how. This is input for further modelling of forecasting tool for electricity and gas prices (in near future). Selected time series are electricity and gas prices and contracted quantities per day of futures for next year on several European markets, oil prices, coal prices, prices of emission allowances, weather (temperature and sunlight defining the consumption of energies), prices of electricity on spot market, currency exchange rate (EUR/CZK and EUR/USD) and correlation of particular week day.
For the predicted value was chosen price of electricity and gas on PXE - Czech commodity stock exchange (part of EEX – German stock that operates with energy commodity markets of almost all EU member states). The product is future “Cal+1” (product delivery is in next year) and time series were selected for period 1/2016-10/2018.
These days experts predict prices based of several indicators based on technical and fundamental (their expert opinion with minimum number outcomes), but there is no exact model with nor exact prediction tool. This model is nowadays valuable more than ever due to rising prices and volatility (in year 2018 prices of electricity in Czech Republic steeply increased from 34 EUR/MWh to 58 EUR/MWh (peak in 9/2018) and the market was more volatile than ever (7 EUR/MWh decrease in 4 days). Also, gas prices reaching 27 EUR/MWh are at their historical maximum.
So far there is only few public researches covering this topic (and only for electricity spot prices) and only few econometric methods are applied. That is why is this research so unique, not mentioning the benefit for public sector, where the model might generate enormous profits.
Interactions between Plants and Rare Earth Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Zhiyong
Published: November 2022

Rare earth oxide nanoparticles (REO NPs) can be released into the environment from various application routes, but their effects on the ecosystem are still little known. In this study, we exposed cucumber seedlings to suspensions of La2O3 and CeO2 NPs for 14 d. Phytotoxicity of the two REO NPs was assessed and their distribution and transformation in plant tissues were investigated. CeO2 NPs had no toxicity to cucumber at all tested concentrations, while La2O3 NPs showed significant inhibition on root elongation, biomass, as well as induced more ROS and cell death in roots. The different distribution and speciation of Ce and in plants were determined by synchrotron-based micro X-ray fluorescence microscopy (SR-XRF) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). In the aerial parts, all of La was combined with phosphate or carboxylic group while only a fraction of Ce was changed to Ce(III)-carboxyl complexes, implying that La2O3 acted as its ionic form while CeO2 displayed the behavior of particles or particle-ion mixtures. The higher dissolution of La2O3 than CeO2 NPs might be the reason for their significant difference in phytotoxicity and transporting behaviors in cucumber plants.
A Model of Marine Litter in Sustainable Fisheries
Authors: Nguyen Linh
Published: November 2022

This paper studies the dynamics of an economy specialized in fisheries facing a rising marine litter problem. We present a dynamic optimization model to explain the mechanism through which marine litter causes inefficiencies in the fishery sector. We study the dynamic properties of the model when the externality of marine litter is not taken into account and when it is internalized via the price of fish. We find that when the litter is internalized through the price of fish, the ocean quality is improved but fish catch decreases. We explore the possibility of introducing an incentive scheme where marine litter can be traded on a hypothetical market. The introduction of a market removes the inefficiencies caused by marine litter and provides the right incentive for fishermen to maximize the overall welfare.
Comparison of sensory odour intensity scales for inexperienced assessors
Authors: Higuchi T. , Sekine M. , Imai T.
Published: November 2022

Odours discharged from various human activities may cause severe damage to local residents. For appropriate evaluation of environmental odours, it is necessary to develop a reliable odour measurement scale. Since environmental odours consist of many different odorous compounds, comprehensive evaluation of odours using human sense of smell as well as instrumental analysis of individual chemicals is indispensable. Odour intensity reflects people’s perception of odours and contributes to effective odour management. For ordinary environmental odour monitoring by neighborhood and routine odour management at emission sources, reliable and user-friendly sensory odour intensity scale even for inexperienced assessors is desired. In this study, four odour intensity scales, including conventional six-point scale, 1-butanol reference scale, line segment scale and metronome scale, were applied to odour intensity measurement of 1-butanol and ethyl acetate solutions by inexperienced assessors. Trueness and precision of measurement results were evaluated, and advantages and disadvantages of each scale were discussed.
POLLUTANT PHOTO-NF REMEDIATION OF AGRO-WATER
Authors: Romanos George , Falaras Polycarpos , Markellou Emilia , Georgaki Irini , Kizis Dimosthenis , Karanasios Evangelos , Anagnostopoulous Christos
Published: November 2022

The agro-food industry is the main manufacturing industry in Europe, representing 14% of the total turnover and accounting for approximately 1.8% of Europe’s total water use. The absence of effective wastewater management approaches can lead to potential ecological ramifications including environmental pollution, water quality deterioration and resource depletion. Currently, the level of pesticides concentration in the spent process wastewater constitutes one of the major areas of concern. In this context, the LIFE17 ENV/GR/000387-PureAgroH2O is expected to deliver an innovative solution by developing and demonstrating in practice a novel purification system for the sustainable management of the end-of-the-pipe wastewater effluents generated in two agro-food industries namely ZAGORIN-GR, Citricos-SP and other industries. The novel system is a close-to-market photocatalytic-nanofiltration reactor (PNFR) that utilises an in-house developed and patented water purification device, accommodating advanced photocatalytic monoliths and porous polymeric fiber-stabilized VLA-photocatalysts. The innovation of the reactor lies on the synergy between two of the most efficient processes for the removal of pesticides, namely nanofiltration and photocatalysis. The consortium strives also to ensure the autonomous process operation and safeguard stable efficiency that will not depend on the seasonal conditions (solar irradiation) and the agro-wastewater composition, constituting the PNFR process the ideal solution for decentralized water and wastewater treatment plants. In addition, the feasibility of achieving significant reduction in the required transmembrane pressure, extension of the life time of the process and higher effectiveness in the elimination of organic and inorganic pollutants, by developing the next generation aligned SWCNTs based photocatalytic monoliths, will be verified with the purpose of integrating them with the PNFR process. The major advantages of PNFR emerge due to simultaneous irradiation of the photocatalytic shell and lumen surfaces of the NF monolith and the inclusion of porous fiber stabilized VLA-photocatalysts in the annulus space of the module, that conclude to a retentate effluent with lower concentration of pesticides than the feed and an ultra-pure permeate stream.

Acknowledgements
We acknowledge funding by the European Commission, Environment, LIFE17 ENV/GR/000387-PureAgroH2O Programme
TiO2/CoFe2O4/Ag NANOCOMPOSITES FOR PHOTOCATALYTIC REDUCTION OF WATER POLLUTANTS UNDER UV AND SOLAR LIGHT
Authors: Falaras Polycarpos , Ibrahim Islam
Published: November 2022

Novel ternary catalysts TiO2/CoFe2O4/Ag with variable ferrite content were synthesized, characterized and used for the photocatalytic reduction of Cr+6 pollutant, under UV and visible light illumination. Both TiO2 and CoFe2O4 were synthesized using the sol-gel method followed by hydrothermal treatment to prepare TiO2/CoFe2O4 (TCF) composite. Silver nanoparticles were successfully loaded on the surface of TCF to get three different composites, named as Ag/TCF. The crystal structure of the composites was analyzed by application of physicochemical characterization techniques. The presence of pure anatase phase TiO2, cubic CoFe2O4, and silver nanoparticles was indicated in both XRD patterns and Raman spectra. It was found that the addition of silver nanoparticles has a great contribution to the photocatalytic reduction of Cr+6 species. The photocatalytic reaction mechanism was studied by applying scavenging reaction process, revealing that electrons were strongly supported for the photocatalytic reduction of Cr+6. After the photocatalytic experiments, the composite catalyst can be easily separated from the reaction solution by an external magnetic bar and re-used.
Acknowledgements
We acknowledge funding by the European Commission, Environment, LIFE17 ENV/GR/000387-PureAgroH2O Programme
FAST AND COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF MAJOR USE ANTIBIOTICS BY UHPLC-HIGH RESOLUTION & HIGH MASS ACCURACY HYBRID LINEAR ION- TRAP- ORBITRAP MASS SPECTROMETRY
Authors: SAKKAS VASILEIOS , KALAMPOKA MARIA , BOTI VASILIKI , ALBANIS TRIANTAFYLLOS
Published: November 2022

Antibiotics constitute one of the most important emerging classes of environmental pollutants. This is due to their diverse use: in veterinary medicine to treat bacterial disease and protect the health of livestock as well as in human medicine to ensure human health safety. They are a prominent group of emerging contaminants frequently found in wastewater effluents and wastewater-impacted aquatic environments. However, the ubiquitous presence of antibiotic residues can create antibiotic-resistant bacteria that are harmful for the aquatic environment along with the consideration to be one of the most serious global threats to human health in the upcoming decades [1, 2]. In this study, antibiotics of multiple classes (sulphonamides, quinolones, penicillins, macrolides, tetracyclines,pyrimidines) were selected to be accurately detected with modern chromatographic systems based on hybrid mass analyzers. For that purpose 13 antibiotics of major use were separated and detected with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) high-resolution LTQ/Orbitrap mass spectrometry. The recent trend is focused toward the use of powerful high resolution MS detectors like Orbitrap which has become the technique of choice because of its high selectivity and sensitivity.
The separation of the target analytes was achieved with a Fortis PFP Hypersil Gold (1.9μm, 50mm x 2.0 mm) analytical column, using a gradient elution system consisting of water (A) and methanol (B) both containing 0.1% formic acid at 400 μL/min flow rate. The target antibiotics were detected as [M+H]+ adduct ions under positive ion mode. Mass accuracy of measured ions was calculated below 3 ppm at 50 ppb, in all cases. The variables involved in the chromatographic process were optimized in instrument auto tune sections. The selected conditions proved to be excellent within 8 min elution with the instrument limits of quantification down to low ppb level for the majority of the analytes. Detector linearity was proved to be excellent in all cases.
The excellent analytical characteristics achieved, showed that the proposed analytical protocol is a promising trend that could be fully exploited in the routine monitoring of these antibiotics in several environmental substrates.
Hydrological and hydraulic modelling for a severe flood event in Sperchios River Basin
Authors: Bournas Apollon , Feloni Elissavet , Bertsiou Maria-Margarita , Baltas Evangelos
Published: November 2022

A combined hydrological and hydraulic analysis is presented for an extreme flood event occurred on February 6, 2012 in Sperchios River Basin, located in Central Greece. This event caused the river’s overflow and, consequently, several damages to infrastructure and agricultural land. Sperchios River Basin is a case of ungauged basin and only rainfall measurements of fine temporal scale are available. The hydrological analysis was performed with the aid of the Hydrologic Modeling System (HEC-HMS) to incorporate and combine different methods concerning the rainfall-runoff transformation, the hydrological losses, the river routing and the baseflow recession, and finally to generate the flood hydrograph. The hydrological analysis output was then used in the River Analysis System (HEC-RAS), which has the ability to model unsteady flow through a river channel network and produces the water profiles, velocity and inundation maps of the flood plain. The implementation of this integrated model for historic flood events in such ungauged basins is useful for reducing the uncertainty and developing robust flood forecasting and early warning systems in order to reduce life casualties and mitigate losses due to flooding.
THE INFLUENCE OF DANUBE RIVER HYDROGRAPHIC AND THERMIC FACTORS ON FISH STOCKS DYNAMICS IN RAZIM-SINOE LAGOON SYSTEM
Authors: Simionov Ira , Chioveanu Cristina , Patriche Neculai , Tenciu Magdalena , Dragomir Elena , Oprea Lucian
Published: November 2022

The Romanian fishing areas extends over 7000 km2 and 50% of the numbers of authorised fishers conduct their activities in the Danube areas. Inland fisheries are highly important for income, food security and nutrition. Inland peri-rural fisheries face degradation due to climate change. According to the European Commission, the dominant factor driving the change in water resources in Danube River basin is climate change. Global mean surface temperatures have increased, fact which causes a constant increase in water temperature as well. Razim-Sinoie Lagoon System represents the largest lagoon (1145 km2) in Romania and stands out for its ecological, historical and socioeconomic importance. The lagoon is connected to Danube River through the channels Dranov and Dunăvăț and receives significant river intake. This present study points out the vulnerability of fish stocks and Romanian fisheries in the context of climate change and global warming. Thus, the aim is to evaluate the influence of multiannual hydrographic and thermic regime on fish stocks status and structure from Razim-Sinoe Logoon System, between the years 2016-2018. Thus, a strong positive correlation was observed between the water temperature and the total quantity of fish catches. In case of fish stocks, a simultaneous decline of ichthyophagous fish species, while increasing the stocks of non- ichthyophagous fish species, is recorded. It is recommended that similar studies to be conducted also in other areas connected to Danube River hydrographic basin, in order to evaluate the magnitude of climate change and global warming impact on fish stocks status and structure.
Treatment of drinking water by UV/Cl2: a study of β-cyclocitral, a cyanobacterial taste & odor compound.
Authors: Kaloudis Triantafyllos , Avagianos Christos , Antonopoulou Maria , Dimotikali Dimitra , Hiskia Anastasia
Published: November 2022

Homogeneous photocatalytic processes are receiving increased interest with regards to drinking water treatment for emerging pollutants. Especially the UV/Cl2 technique has a potential for real large-scale applications as it can combine disinfection with chemical oxidation using processes that are more familiar and widely applied by water supplies. However, more research is needed to understand the complex mechanisms involved, including formation of hydroxyl and chlorine radicals among others, as well as overall performance against various groups of emerging pollutants, such as the less-studied water taste and odor compounds (T&O) (Antonopoulou et al., 2014). We present results on the UV/Cl2 degradation of β-cyclocitral as a model of common cyanobacterial terpenoid T&O in water (Kaloudis et al., 2016). The study was conducted using a novel photoreactor set-up with custom-made UV-LED arrays, precise control of irradiance, continuous spectrophotometric – GC/MS monitoring and sensory evaluation of the process (Kaloudis et al. 2018). Effects of key process parameters i.e. irradiance, concentration of Cl2 and β-cyclocitral, water matrix (ultrapure and typical drinking water) on the kinetics as well as key degradation products and proposed pathways are presented. Effectiveness, efficiency and prospects of real applications of UV/Cl2 for removal of hazardous T&O from drinking water are discussed.
Stakeholder Participation in Prioritization of Water Supply and Demand in Jordan
Authors: Shammout Maisa'a , Shatanawi Muhammad
Published: November 2022

Stakeholder participation in prioritization of water supply and demand was developed to assist water resource entities and water users on decision making when coping with water scarcity, climate change and contaminated water in Zarqa River Basin, Jordan. The basin was selected for CrITERIA project to represent a case study of semi-arid area in the Mediterranean. The paper demonstrates a participatory approach of integrating stakeholders’ experience and their active involvement in water management. Issues related to prioritization of water demand were identified, and the opinions of stakeholder were ranked according to their role in securing supply and improving supply reliability. The most important issues were ranked according to number of opinions out of the total. Findings showed that water management issues was the major issue in the basin and represents 86% of the stakeholders opinions, followed by water supply as 82% to less extent by water demand as 77% and quality as 68%. Most of the stakeholders agreed that management issues are the major cause of water scarcity. Like expected, water problems in Jordan are 50% associated with poor management and 50% due to water scarcity.
Microwave communication networks as a sustainable tool of rainfall monitoring for agriculture needs in Africa
Authors: David Noam , Gao H. Oliver , Kumah Kingsley , Hoedjes Joost , Su Bob , Liu Yanyan
Published: November 2022

Commercial Microwave Links (CMLs), that provide the underlying framework for data transfer between cellular network base stations have been found effective for monitoring rainfall. Wireless infrastructure of this kind is deployed widely by communication providers across Africa and can be used as a complementary monitoring device to the sparse proprietary resources that exist currently, and at minimal cost, or as a substitute tool in the many cases where alternatives do not exist. Here we focus on the potential that lies in this novel approach to acquire valuable information required for agricultural needs over the poverty-stricken countries of Africa.
Conversion of coal fly ash by-products into high-grade zeolite by a quasi natural crystallization process
Authors: Boycheva Silviya , Zgureva Denitza
Published: November 2022

Recently, the synthesis of zeolites from coal fly ash (FA) has been extensively studied regarding the process optimization, industrial upscaling and technological commercialization. The obtaining of fly ash zeolites (FAZ) is based on the transformation of aluminosilicates of FA by alkaline activation which undergoes several stages: alkaline dissolution of Si-Al-components; hydrogel formation; crystallization of zeolite phases over the insoluble matter. Different synthesis methods of FAZ have been studied in the quest to achieve the highest transformation rate in a particular zeolitic phase. Generally, zeolites occur in the nature due to the interaction between rock aluminosilicates and sea salts in a course of thousands of years. This natural example provides an idea of simplifying the conversion of FA into zeolite under atmospheric conditions avoiding the external energy and special equipment. The equipment convenience and the zero energy demands are of great importance for scaling up the coal ash utilization.This study focuses on technologically viable approach to obtain zeolites by aging of FA and alkaline solution mixtures in ambient conditions. Reaction products were characterized for their phase composition, morphology and surface properties. The effect of the alkaline activator concentration and the crystallization time was investigated as important variables for zeolitization rate.

Acknowledgements
This work was financially supported by the National Science Fund, Ministry of Education and Science of Bulgaria under contract DN 17/18 and Grant DNTS Slovak Republic 01/6.
Liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution-Orbitrap mass spectrometry for the determination of nitrofuran metabolites in fish samples
Authors: Trantopoulos Epameinondas , Kosma Christina , Karkabounas Athanassios , Boti Vasiliki , Albanis Triantafyllos
Published: November 2022

Nitrofurans (NFs) are synthetic antibiotic drugs employed for the treatment of bacterial diseases in livestock production or as food additives in industrial farming of food-producing animals. The most widely used NFs in veterinary medicine are nitrofurantoin (NFT), furazolidone (FZD), nitrofurazone (NFZ) and furaltadone (FTD). After intake, NFs are extensively metabolized into their corresponding metabolites (NFMs), identified as 1-amino-hydantoin (AHD), 3-amino-2-oxazolidone (AOZ), semicarbazide (SEM) and 3-amino-5-methyl-morpholino-2-oxazolidinone (AMOZ), for nitrofurantoin, furazolidone, nitrofurazone and furaltadone, respectively. NFs and their metabolites are suspected to possess carcinogenic and mutagenic potency, therefore their application in food and animal production was banned in the EU in 1995 and in the USA in 2002. Since parent NFs are extensively metabolized to tissue-bond metabolites, recent analytical methods have been focused on the determination of the NFMs instead of the parent compounds. In the present study a modified extraction technique including at first a hydrolysis-derivatization step [1] was validated and applied for the simultaneous determination of four of NFMs residues (AHD, AOZ, SEM, AMOZ) in fish samples from aquacultures located in North Western Greece.
Pharmaceutical residues in hospital and urban wastewaters: Occurrence, removal and potential risk assessment
Authors: Kosma Christina , Martinaiou Panagiota , Trantopoulos Epameinondas , Albanis Triantafyllos
Published: November 2022

The presence of ten pharmaceutical compounds (bupropion, venlafaxine, mirtazapine, sertraline, citalopram, caffeine, triclosan, carbamazepine, diazepam, clozapine) which belong to different treatment categories was studied in one hospital and three urban WWTPs in north and northwestern Greece. The pharmaceuticals have been selected due to their high usage rate but also because of their proven presence in both wastewater treatment plants and aquatic environments. Analytical methodology was based on gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) detection after the application of a solid phase extraction (SPE) step. In addition, elimination of these compounds in the WWTPs was assessed as well as their ecotoxicological impact on the aquatic environment was estimated by means of risk quotient (RQ). The results showed that the most often detectable compounds were caffeine, triclosan and venlafaxine. High concentration levels of caffeine, up to 22142.1 ng/L were found, while removal rates were up to 99 %. In addition, high levels of acute and chronic toxicity were observed for triclosan (RQ>1).
Coal fly ash zeolites as adsorbents for effective removal of heavy metals and dyes from contaminated waters
Authors: Boycheva Silviya , Zgureva Denitza , Behunová Dominika , Václavíková Miroslava
Published: November 2022

Recently, the purification of enormous amounts contaminated industrial, agricultural and municipal waters increases the demands of low-cost and technologically feasible techniques. The application of natural zeolites in wastewater treatment is known from many years. A feasible approach for processing of zeolite-like materials that possess advantages similar to the natural minerals and can be replaced by them in variety of applications is the alkaline conversion of fly ash (FA) from coal. FA is easily converted to zeolites X, A and Y which are the most important zeolite types for practice due to their surface properties. In this study, fly ash zeolites (FAZ) of Na-X type were synthesized by different laboratory techniques. It was established via nitrogen adsorption/desorption studies that the obtained FAZ possess suitable surface characteristics for adsorption of different contaminants from waters. The adsorption efficiency of FAZ with the highest specific surface value for removal of methylene blue from water media reaches over 60 % for the studied concentration levels. The removal efficiency of FAZ toward Cd2+-ions is in the range 94-98 % and it is not influenced by the pH parameter from 3.0 to 7.0. The obtained results reveal that FAZ are suitable adsorbents in water remediation systems.

Acknowledgements
This work was financially supported by National Science Funds, Ministries of Education and Science of Republic Bulgaria and Slovak Republic in the frame of bilateral research project under Grant DNTS Slovak Republic 01/6 (SK-BG-2013-0025).
Evapotransiration of crops and mechanical soil composition in Rhodes island
Authors: Symeonidou Stella , Vagiona Dimitra
Published: November 2022

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the green (from rainfall) and blue (from irrigation) evapotranspiration of the most widespread crops (olives, citrus, soft and hard wheat, watermelons/melons, barley, grapes, vegetables, winter/summer and spring potatoes, fodder crops, rest annual crops) in the geographical area of Rhodes island. While the soils of the island belong to the same category, according to the classification "USDA Texture Classification" and could be roughly considered as a homogeneous medium soil (loam) in CROPWAT software, a separation takes place in four categories, in order to investigate whether the evapotranspiration of crops varies, even in the same ground category, depending on the relation of the mechanical soil composition. Furthermore a comparison takes place with the medium soil default value of CROPWAT. The examination included the separation of irrigated and rainfed crops at the scale of municipal unit. Calculations were made on the basis of the irrigation schedule approach, which includes a dynamic water balance of the soil profile and monitors soil moisture content over time.