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Water, Volume 13, Issue 10 (May-2 2021) – 109 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): The picture shows a dead matte area, precisely when the Costa Concordia shipwreck occurred, characterized by the spread of the invasive green algae Caulerpa cylindracea. The matte is a biogenic substrate, formed by the dense twist of seagrass roots, rhizomes, and sediment, that represents what remains after the regression of the Mediterranean endemic seagrass Posidonia oceanica. Our work published in Water (Volume 13, Issue 10) highlighted that Posidonia regression enhances the spread of C. cylindracea, and dead matte represents excellent substrata for the diffusion of this invasive algae. In less than one year, this species has gone from a vulnerable state to critical due to a parasite that infects fan mussels and causes death. View this paper
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20 pages, 1149 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Environmental Impact of Acid Mine Drainage on Surface Water, Stream Sediments, and Macrophytes Using a Battery of Chemical and Ecotoxicological Indicators
by Paula Alvarenga, Nádia Guerreiro, Isabel Simões, Maria José Imaginário and Patrícia Palma
Water 2021, 13(10), 1436; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101436 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5048
Abstract
Mining activities at the Portuguese sector of the Iberian Pyrite Belt (IPB) have been responsible for the pollution of water, sediments, and biota, caused by the acid mine drainage (AMD) from the tailing deposits. The impact has been felt for years in the [...] Read more.
Mining activities at the Portuguese sector of the Iberian Pyrite Belt (IPB) have been responsible for the pollution of water, sediments, and biota, caused by the acid mine drainage (AMD) from the tailing deposits. The impact has been felt for years in the rivers and streams receiving AMD from the Aljustrel mine (SW sector of the IPB, Portugal), such as at the Água Forte stream, a tributary of the Roxo stream (Sado and Mira Hydrographic Region). To evaluate the extent of that environmental impact prior to the remediation actions, surface water, sediments, and the macrophyte Scirpus holoschoenus L. were sampled at the Água Forte and the Roxo streams, upstream and downstream from the confluence. The surface water and the sediments were extremely acidic at the Água Forte stream (pH ranges 2.22–2.92 for the water and 2.57–3.32 for the sediment), with high As, Cu, Pb, and Zn concentrations of 2.1, 120, 0.21, and 421 mg kg−1, respectively, in the water, and 661, 1746, 539, and 1994 mg kg−1, respectively, in the sediment, in the location closer to the mine. Two aquatic bioassays evidenced the high ecotoxicity of the Água Forte water at that site, with very low EC50 values for Vibrio fischeri luminescence inhibition (<3.1% v/v) and Daphnia magna 48-hour immobilization/mortality assays (<6.3% v/v). The impact of the AMD was also evident in the sediments of the Roxo stream, but not so marked in the water, with circa neutral pH and lower As, Cu, Pb, and Zn concentrations. Consistently, the ecotoxicological response was only felt in the sampling point closer to the confluence of the Água Forte with the Roxo stream, with an EC20 of 27.0% (v/v) towards the V. fischeri. One of the dominant and well adapted macrophytes, S. holoschoenus L., presented low bioaccumulation factors for Cu (0.04) and Zn (0.15) in their emerging parts, and very low concentrations for As and Pb, making this plant a potential candidate to be used in phytoremediation actions to treat and control AMD in the IPB. Full article
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25 pages, 30295 KiB  
Article
A Computationally Efficient Shallow Water Model for Mixed Cohesive and Non-Cohesive Sediment Transport in the Yangtze Estuary
by Peng Hu, Junyu Tao, Aofei Ji, Wei Li and Zhiguo He
Water 2021, 13(10), 1435; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101435 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2349
Abstract
In this paper, a computationally efficient shallow water model is developed for sediment transport in the Yangtze Estuary by considering mixed cohesive and non-cohesive sediment transport. It is firstly shown that the model is capable of reproducing tidal-hydrodynamics in the estuarine region. Secondly, [...] Read more.
In this paper, a computationally efficient shallow water model is developed for sediment transport in the Yangtze Estuary by considering mixed cohesive and non-cohesive sediment transport. It is firstly shown that the model is capable of reproducing tidal-hydrodynamics in the estuarine region. Secondly, it is demonstrated that the observed temporal variation of suspended sediment concentration (SSC) for mixed cohesive and non-cohesive sediments can be well-captured by the model with calibrated parameters (i.e., critical shear stresses for erosion/deposition, erosion coefficient). Numerical comparative studies indicate that: (1) consideration of multiple sediment fraction (both cohesive and non-cohesive sediments) is important for accurate modeling of SSC in the Yangtze Estuary; (2) the critical shear stress and the erosion coefficient is shown to be site-dependent, for which intensive calibration may be required; and (3) the Deepwater Navigation Channel (DNC) project may lead to enhanced current velocity and thus reduced sediment deposition in the North Passage of the Yangtze Estuary. Finally, the implementation of the hybrid local time step/global maximum time step (LTS/GMaTS) (using LTS to update the hydro-sediment module but using GMaTS to update the morphodynamic module) can lead to a reduction of as high as 90% in the computational cost for the Yangtze Estuary. This advantage, along with its well-demonstrated quantitative accuracy, indicates that the present model should find wide applications in estuarine regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oceans and Coastal Zones)
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19 pages, 476 KiB  
Article
Research on the Coastal Marine Environment and Rural Sustainable Development Strategy of Island Countries—Taking the Penghu Islands as an Example
by Chien-Hung Wu
Water 2021, 13(10), 1434; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101434 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2667
Abstract
In this study, we examined the keelboat industry on Penghu Island in Taiwan as an example to discuss sustainable development strategies for the marine environment and villages. First, three experts were consulted to compile questionnaires. A snowball sampling method was used to collect [...] Read more.
In this study, we examined the keelboat industry on Penghu Island in Taiwan as an example to discuss sustainable development strategies for the marine environment and villages. First, three experts were consulted to compile questionnaires. A snowball sampling method was used to collect 278 samples of residents and tourists living in the coastal area. Opinions were collected from 8 residents, crew members, tourists, and scholars. The data were finally summarized and compared by triangulation method and then examined. We found that introducing the keelboat industry could preserve maritime culture, increase local popularity and leisure options for people, create business opportunities, and improve the economy. It could also lead to a loss of coastal architectural features, increased the amount of trash in the community, around the harbor, and on the sea, no improvement in public facilities and medical care, and decreased the willingness of young people to return to their hometowns. Encouraging men to work in tourism-related industries, assisting in balancing job opportunities, strengthening villagers’ communication, improving tourists’ environmental literacy, adding onboard guides, improving women’s professional knowledge of marine ecology and working opportunities for boat maintenance, as well as actively participating in community development planning, can improve the current situation and achieve the goal of sustainable development. Full article
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18 pages, 4242 KiB  
Article
Afforestation of Degraded Croplands as a Water-Saving Option in Irrigated Region of the Aral Sea Basin
by Navneet Kumar, Asia Khamzina, Patrick Knöfel, John P. A. Lamers and Bernhard Tischbein
Water 2021, 13(10), 1433; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101433 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3538
Abstract
Climate change is likely to decrease surface water availability in Central Asia, thereby necessitating land use adaptations in irrigated regions. The introduction of trees to marginally productive croplands with shallow groundwater was suggested for irrigation water-saving and improving the land’s productivity. Considering the [...] Read more.
Climate change is likely to decrease surface water availability in Central Asia, thereby necessitating land use adaptations in irrigated regions. The introduction of trees to marginally productive croplands with shallow groundwater was suggested for irrigation water-saving and improving the land’s productivity. Considering the possible trade-offs with water availability in large-scale afforestation, our study predicted the impacts on water balance components in the lower reaches of the Amudarya River to facilitate afforestation planning using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). The land-use scenarios used for modeling analysis considered the afforestation of 62% and 100% of marginally productive croplands under average and low irrigation water supply identified from historical land-use maps. The results indicate a dramatic decrease in the examined water balance components in all afforestation scenarios based largely on the reduced irrigation demand of trees compared to the main crops. Specifically, replacing current crops (mostly cotton) with trees on all marginal land (approximately 663 km2) in the study region with an average water availability would save 1037 mln m3 of gross irrigation input within the study region and lower the annual drainage discharge by 504 mln m3. These effects have a considerable potential to support irrigation water management and enhance drainage functions in adapting to future water supply limitations. Full article
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16 pages, 2886 KiB  
Article
Snow Patches and Their Influence on Coastal Erosion at Baydaratskaya Bay Coast, Kara Sea, Russian Arctic
by Daria Bogatova (Aleksyutina), Sergey Buldovich and Vanda Khilimonyuk
Water 2021, 13(10), 1432; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101432 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2244
Abstract
The Arctic coastal environment is a very dynamic system and sensitive to any changes. In our research we demonstrate that nivation (snow patch activity) impacts the Arctic landscape especially in the coastal dynamic at the western part of Russian Arctic. During fieldwork, snowbanks [...] Read more.
The Arctic coastal environment is a very dynamic system and sensitive to any changes. In our research we demonstrate that nivation (snow patch activity) impacts the Arctic landscape especially in the coastal dynamic at the western part of Russian Arctic. During fieldwork, snowbanks were described and studied and their qualitative role in the development of coastal systems was revealed for Baydaratskaya Bay coast, the Kara Sea. On one side, the large snow cover protects the coastal slope from thermodenudation and thermoabrasion; on the other side, a thick layer of snow affects the ground temperature regime. During snow melting, snow patches contribute to the removal of material from the coastal slope. The quantitative effect of snow on the ground temperature regime was assessed according to numerical simulations. The critical snow thickness was determined based on a calculation. Critical snow thicknesses based on simulation and field data correlated well. The numerical simulation showed the talik formation under the snow patch. Talik size essentially depends on the freezing temperature of sediment (influenced by salinity). The changes of ground temperature regime might further generate thawing settlement of sediment under snow and contribute to beach topography, which might be a trigger for thermoabrasion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oceans and Coastal Zones)
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35 pages, 9197 KiB  
Article
Agricultural Drought Risk Assessment: A Spatial Analysis of Hazard, Exposure, and Vulnerability in Zacatecas, Mexico
by David Ortega-Gaucin, Jesús A. Ceballos-Tavares, Alejandro Ordoñez Sánchez and Heidy V. Castellano-Bahena
Water 2021, 13(10), 1431; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101431 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 7049
Abstract
Drought is one of the major threats to water and food security in many regions around the world. The present study focuses on the evaluation of agricultural drought risk from an integrated perspective, that is, emphasizing the combined role of hazard, exposure, and [...] Read more.
Drought is one of the major threats to water and food security in many regions around the world. The present study focuses on the evaluation of agricultural drought risk from an integrated perspective, that is, emphasizing the combined role of hazard, exposure, and vulnerability to drought. For this purpose, we used the Mexican state of Zacatecas as a case study. This state is one of the most vulnerable to the adverse effects of agricultural drought in the country. The proposed method includes three stages: first, we analyzed the risk of agricultural drought at the municipal scale using the FAO Agricultural Stress Index System (ASIS) in its country version (Country-Level ASIS) and also determined a Drought Hazard Index (DHI). Subsequently, we conducted a municipal assessment of exposure and vulnerability to drought based on a set of socioeconomic and environmental indicators, which we combined using an analytical procedure to generate the Drought Exposure Index (DEI) and the Drought Vulnerability Index (DVI). Finally, we determined a Drought Risk Index (DRI) based on a weighted addition of the hazard, exposure, and vulnerability indices. Results showed that 32% of the state’s municipalities are at high and very high risk of agricultural drought; these municipalities are located mainly in the center and north of the state, where 75.8% of agriculture is rainfed, 63.6% of production units are located, and 67.4% of the state’s population depends on agricultural activity. These results are in general agreement with those obtained by other studies analyzing drought in the state of Zacatecas using different meteorological drought indices, and the results are also largely in line with official data on agricultural surfaces affected by drought in this state. The generated maps can help stakeholders and public policymakers to guide investments and actions aimed at reducing vulnerability to and risk of agricultural drought. The method described can also be applied to other Mexican states or adapted for use in other states or countries around the world. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Managing Climate Risks to Water Security)
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13 pages, 2118 KiB  
Article
A Method for Estimating the Velocity at Which Anaerobic Metabolism Begins in Swimming Fish
by Feifei He, Xiaogang Wang, Yun Li, Yiqun Hou, Qiubao Zou and Dengle Shen
Water 2021, 13(10), 1430; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101430 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2652
Abstract
Anaerobic metabolism begins before fish reach their critical swimming speed. Anaerobic metabolism affects the swimming ability of fish, which is not conducive to their upward tracking. The initiation of anaerobic metabolism therefore provides a better predictor of flow barriers than critical swimming speed. [...] Read more.
Anaerobic metabolism begins before fish reach their critical swimming speed. Anaerobic metabolism affects the swimming ability of fish, which is not conducive to their upward tracking. The initiation of anaerobic metabolism therefore provides a better predictor of flow barriers than critical swimming speed. To estimate the anaerobic element of metabolism for swimming fish, the respiratory metabolism and swimming performance of adult crucian carp (Carassius auratus, mass = 260.10 ± 7.93, body length = 19.32 ± 0.24) were tested in a closed tank at 20 ± 1 °C. The swimming behavior and rate of oxygen consumption of these carp were recorded at various swimming speeds. Results indicate (1) The critical swimming speed of the crucian carp was 0.85 ± 0.032 m/s (4.40 ± 0.16 BL/s). (2) When a power function was fitted to the data, oxygen consumption, as a function of swimming speed, was determined to be AMR = 131.24 + 461.26Us1.27 (R2 = 0.948, p < 0.001) and the power value (1.27) of Us indicated high swimming efficiency. (3) Increased swimming speed led to increases in the tail beat frequency. (4) Swimming costs were calculated via rate of oxygen consumption and hydrodynamic modeling. Then, the drag coefficient of the crucian carp during swimming was calibrated (0.126–0.140), and the velocity at which anaerobic metabolism was initiated was estimated (0.52 m/s), via the new method described herein. This study adds to our understanding of the metabolic patterns of fish at different swimming speeds. Full article
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12 pages, 1744 KiB  
Article
Leaf vs. Whole-Plant Biotic Attack: Does Vine Physiological Response Change?
by Tadeja Savi, Jose CaR + Los Herrera and Astrid Forneck
Water 2021, 13(10), 1429; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101429 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2096
Abstract
Phylloxera is one of the most invasive and widespread insects in viticulture. An increase in populations feeding on leaves and/or roots of formeR + Ly resistant grapevines has been observed, but information on leaf and whole plant phylloxera infestation effects is lacking. We [...] Read more.
Phylloxera is one of the most invasive and widespread insects in viticulture. An increase in populations feeding on leaves and/or roots of formeR + Ly resistant grapevines has been observed, but information on leaf and whole plant phylloxera infestation effects is lacking. We monitored the water and carbon metabolism of vines (one rootstock x scion combination) inoculated with insects’ eggs on leaves (L) or both leaves and roots (R+L). Nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) in infested and noninfested tissue of different organs and plant biomass were measured at the end of the experiment. At the peak of the biotic stress treatment, the plants reduced transpiration by about 30% compared to control, while photosynthesis remained unaffected. Lower soluble NSC were measured in infested than in the nearby noninfested tissue of both L and R+L groups, suggesting sugar consumption by the insect, while infested roots increased starch content by fivefold. NSC were depleted in noninfested roots of R+L plants as well, giving strength to the hypothesis of intense metabolites translocation in favor of the insect. A more distinct physiological depression in R+L vines compared to L was highlighted, even if the total biomass reduction was more marked in L plants. Our preliminary results suggest that the insect reprograms plant metabolism stimulating a more conservative water use, while competing with the host plant for carbon resources. Further studies should validate current results and quantify the NSC invested in the plant’s defense against the pest. Full article
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17 pages, 3438 KiB  
Article
Stepped Spillway Slope Effect on Air Entrainment and Inception Point Location
by Awais Raza, Wuyi Wan and Kashif Mehmood
Water 2021, 13(10), 1428; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101428 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3632
Abstract
Spillway is a crucial hydraulic structure used to discharge excess water from the dam reservoir. Air entrainment is essential to prevent cavitation damage on the spillway, however, without air entrainment the risk of cavitation over the spillway increases. The most important parameter for [...] Read more.
Spillway is a crucial hydraulic structure used to discharge excess water from the dam reservoir. Air entrainment is essential to prevent cavitation damage on the spillway, however, without air entrainment the risk of cavitation over the spillway increases. The most important parameter for the determination of air entrainment in stepped spillways is the inception point. The inception point is the location where the air starts to inter into the water flow surface over the spillway. It occurs when the turbulent boundary layer meets the free surface. The location of the inception point depends upon different parameters like flow rate, geometry, step size, and slope of the spillway. The main aim of this study was applying numerical simulation by using the realizable k-ϵ model and the volume of fluid (VOF) method to locate the location of the inception point. For this purpose, by using different stepped spillways with four different slopes (12.5°, 19°, 29°, and 35°) different flow rates were simulated, which gives the location of the inception point of different channel slopes of stepped spillways at different flow rates. The results demonstrated that the inception point location of mild slopes is farther from the crest of the spillway than the steep slope stepped spillway. Non-aerated flow zone length increases when the channel slope decreases from steep to mild slope. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Hydraulics and Hydrodynamics)
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14 pages, 1254 KiB  
Article
Methylobacterium oryzae Influences Isoepoxydon Dehydrogenase Gene Expression and Patulin Production by Penicillium expansum
by Tiago Barros Afonso, Lúcia Chaves Simões and Nelson Lima
Water 2021, 13(10), 1427; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101427 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2326
Abstract
Biofilms can be considered the main source of microorganisms in drinking water distribution systems (DWDS). The ecology of a biofilm is dependent on a variety of factors, including the presence of microbial metabolites excreted by its inhabitants. This study reports the effect of [...] Read more.
Biofilms can be considered the main source of microorganisms in drinking water distribution systems (DWDS). The ecology of a biofilm is dependent on a variety of factors, including the presence of microbial metabolites excreted by its inhabitants. This study reports the effect of the Gram-negative bacteria Methylobacterium oryzae on the idh gene expression levels and patulin production of Penicillium expansum mature biofilms. For this purpose, a RT-qPCR method to quantify idh mRNA levels was applied. In addition, the idh expression levels were compared with the patulin production. The results obtained revealed that the effect of the bacterium on pre-established P. expansum biofilms is dependent on the time of interaction. More mature P. expansum biofilms appear to be more resistant to the inhibitory effect that M. oryzae causes towards idh gene expression and patulin production. A positive trend was observed between the idh expression and patulin production values. The results indicate that M. oryzae affects patulin production by acting at the transcriptional level of the idh gene. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Urban Water Management)
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13 pages, 1347 KiB  
Article
Sorption and Desorption Analysis of Nitrobenzene on Differently Functionalized Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes and Implications on the Stability
by Zhanhua Ji and Dengyu Li
Water 2021, 13(10), 1426; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101426 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1939
Abstract
The stability of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) suspension is a key factor in determining their transport, fate, and toxicity in an aquatic environment, which is significantly influenced by CNTs’ nature and water chemistry. Macromolecular dissolved organic matter (DOM) is reported to influence the stability [...] Read more.
The stability of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) suspension is a key factor in determining their transport, fate, and toxicity in an aquatic environment, which is significantly influenced by CNTs’ nature and water chemistry. Macromolecular dissolved organic matter (DOM) is reported to influence the stability of CNTs aggregation. However, little is known on small polar dissolved organic compound’s effects on CNTs aggregation. Nitrobenzene was selected to investigate its interaction with three different functionalized multiwalled CNTs (MWCNTs). Both the stability of CNTs aggregation and sorption hysteresis were affected by the initial concentration of nitrobenzene and the surface functionalization coverage of MWCNTs. At the initial concentration below 580 mg/L, the thermodynamic index of irreversibility (TII) and turbidity of CNTs suspension had the same tendency, indicating that the underlying mechanism is closely related. A conceptual adsorption–desorption model was proposed to further explain the relationship between the sorption hysteresis and stability of MWCNTs suspension under different initial concentrations of nitrobenzene. This provided data support to further clarify the environmental behaviors and risks of CNTs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Water Quality and Contamination)
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18 pages, 5885 KiB  
Article
Numerical Modeling of Submarine Pipeline Scouring under Tropical Storms
by Panyang Huang, Xin Meng, Haiyang Dong and Lin Chong
Water 2021, 13(10), 1425; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101425 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2084
Abstract
Submarine pipelines are the lifelines of the national economy. Under the influence of typhoons, high-speed currents and waves continuously erode the seabed, leading to suspension or even rupture of pipelines. Therefore, it is of great importance to study the sediment transport under the [...] Read more.
Submarine pipelines are the lifelines of the national economy. Under the influence of typhoons, high-speed currents and waves continuously erode the seabed, leading to suspension or even rupture of pipelines. Therefore, it is of great importance to study the sediment transport under the action of waves and currents. A numerical model of sediment scouring and deposition combining wave and currents is established, which considered tidal current, storm surges, wind waves, and sediments in the East China Sea. Combining with the monitoring of the actual laying condition of pipelines, it is found that the area with the most serious scouring is around KP300. It is shown that the typhoon weather with high intensity and density will lead to the suspension of pipelines, which is noteworthy in the construction of marine engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oceans and Coastal Zones)
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15 pages, 1408 KiB  
Article
Application of a New Improved Weighting Method, ESO Method Combined with Fuzzy Synthetic Method, in Water Quality Evaluation of Chagan Lake
by Wenbin Zhao, Changlai Xiao, Yunxu Chai, Xiaoya Feng, Xiujuan Liang and Zhang Fang
Water 2021, 13(10), 1424; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101424 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2048
Abstract
The existing weighting methods mainly comprise subjective and objective weighting and have a certain degree of subjectivity, with certain requirements for the professional ability of the users and unstable results. Therefore, an improved weighting method based on the entropy weight, over-standard multiple, and [...] Read more.
The existing weighting methods mainly comprise subjective and objective weighting and have a certain degree of subjectivity, with certain requirements for the professional ability of the users and unstable results. Therefore, an improved weighting method based on the entropy weight, over-standard multiple, and single-factor evaluation methods, referred to as the ESO method, is proposed. The advantages and advancements of the ESO method are demonstrated in this study by combining it with the fuzzy synthetic evaluation method to evaluate the water quality of Chagan Lake wetland from 2007 to 2016. The main conclusions of this study are as follows: 1. The ESO method has more comprehensive consideration factors, lower requirements for the professional ability of users, and more stable weighting results than the traditional weighting method. Therefore, it is highly suitable for beginners and frontline staff who are not professionally qualified and cannot accurately conduct subjective weighting. Meanwhile, owing to the amendment rule and emphasis on the local weight of the sample in the ESO method, it is applicable to time-series samples. 2. The ESO method better allocates the amendment weights to indicators with a higher degree of pollution; thus, the final comprehensive evaluation results are relatively conservative. However, in contrast to the single-factor evaluation, the conservatism of ESO method is the result of the comprehensive effect of all samples; thus, the conservative result of the ESO method is more reasonable. 3. The water quality of Chagan Lake in 2009 and 2015 was class IV, which did not meet the standard, while that in remaining the eight years was class III, which met the requirements of the national 13th Five-Year Plan. The results of this study can provide a new approach to weighting calculation methods and a basis for the protection and treatment of the ecological environment of the Chagan Lake wetland. Full article
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16 pages, 2640 KiB  
Article
Confusing Invader: Acanthocyclops americanus (Copepoda: Cyclopoida) and Its Biological, Anthropogenic and Climate-Dependent Mechanisms of Rapid Distribution in Eurasia
by Victor R. Alekseev
Water 2021, 13(10), 1423; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101423 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2958
Abstract
Acanthocyclops americanus (Marsh, 1892), first described in Wisconsin (USA), was discovered shortly thereafter in Great Britain and then widely distributed in the Palearctic. Its current range includes Europe, North Africa, western and central Siberia with the largest number of findings along the migration [...] Read more.
Acanthocyclops americanus (Marsh, 1892), first described in Wisconsin (USA), was discovered shortly thereafter in Great Britain and then widely distributed in the Palearctic. Its current range includes Europe, North Africa, western and central Siberia with the largest number of findings along the migration tracks of aquatic birds. Until recently, the northern border was the 60th parallel, but in the last decade it has expanded further into the Arctic. The most rapid expansion of its range in Europe happened in the middle of the last century, which was partially hidden from scientists due to a taxonomic mistake caused by the merging of its name with the native Palearctic form Acanthocyclops robustus (Sars, 1863). This problem was solved only recently with the help of molecular genetic tools, allowing a return to the study of biological, anthropogenic and possible climate-dependent mechanisms of the successful rapid invasion of A. americanus into the Palearctic. This paper, along with a detailed description of the life cycle parameters, adaptive behavior of nauplii and population dynamics in Acanthocyclops americanus compared to those in two other native Acanthocyclops species (Acanthocyclops vernalis and A. robustus), provides a possible history of the biological invasion of A. americanus in the Palearctic. Special attention is paid to the climate-dependent mechanism of the expansion of its range into the north and far east of Asia. The introduction of the A.americanus into small lakes in Great Britain resulted in the dominance of this species in the summer plankton. In many high-trophic reservoirs in Belgium, France and Spain, as well as in newly built reservoirs in Europe, this species has become the only representative of crustacean zooplankton in the warm season. This has led to a significant transformation of the trophic webs of these reservoirs. The rapid dispersal of the invasive species, which was demonstrated by A. americanus in the last century, can make it difficult, and in some cases even impossible to study the historical reasons for the formation of the fauna of other invertebrates associated with such events including the movement of continents and the evolution of the Tethys Sea. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Climate Change on Freshwater Plankton Communities)
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22 pages, 15727 KiB  
Article
GPM Annual and Daily Precipitation Data for Real-Time Short-Term Nowcasting: A Pilot Study for a Way Forward in Data Assimilation
by Kaiyang Wang, Lingrong Kong, Zixin Yang, Prateek Singh, Fangyu Guo, Yunqing Xu, Xiaonan Tang and Jianli Hao
Water 2021, 13(10), 1422; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101422 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3976
Abstract
This study explores the quality of data produced by Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) and the potential of GPM for real-time short-term nowcasting using MATLAB and the Short-Term Ensemble Prediction System (STEPS). Precipitation data obtained by rain gauges during the period 2015 to 2017 [...] Read more.
This study explores the quality of data produced by Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) and the potential of GPM for real-time short-term nowcasting using MATLAB and the Short-Term Ensemble Prediction System (STEPS). Precipitation data obtained by rain gauges during the period 2015 to 2017 were used in this comparative analysis. The results show that the quality of GPM precipitation has different degrees efficacies at the national scale, which were revealed at the performance analysis stage of the study. After data quality checking, five representative precipitation events were selected for nowcasting evaluation. The GPM estimated precipitation compared to a 30 min forecast using STEPS precipitation nowcast results, showing that the GPM precipitation data performed well in nowcasting between 0 to 120 min. However, the accuracy and quality of nowcasting precipitation significantly reduced with increased lead time. A major finding from the study is that the quality of precipitation data can be improved through blending processes such as kriging with external drift and the double-kernel smoothing method, which enhances the quality of nowcast over longer lead times. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Catchment: Rainfall–Runoff Issues and Responses)
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18 pages, 3033 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Transboundary Water Resources Allocation Models Based on Game Theory and Multi-Objective Optimization
by Jisi Fu, Ping-An Zhong, Bin Xu, Feilin Zhu, Juan Chen and Jieyu Li
Water 2021, 13(10), 1421; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101421 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2768
Abstract
Transboundary water resources allocation is an effective measure to resolve water-related conflicts. Aiming at the problem of water conflicts, we constructed water resources allocation models based on game theory and multi-objective optimization, and revealed the differences between the two models. We compare the [...] Read more.
Transboundary water resources allocation is an effective measure to resolve water-related conflicts. Aiming at the problem of water conflicts, we constructed water resources allocation models based on game theory and multi-objective optimization, and revealed the differences between the two models. We compare the Pareto front solved by the AR-MOEA method and the NSGA-II method, and analyzed the difference between the Nash–Harsanyi Leader–Follower game model and the multi-objective optimization model. The Huaihe River basin was selected as a case study. The results show that: (1) The AR-MOEA method is better than the NSGA-II method in terms of the diversity metric (Δ); (2) the solution of the asymmetric Nash–Harsanyi Leader–Follower game model is a non-dominated solution, and the asymmetric game model can obtain the same water resources allocation scheme of the multi-objective optimal allocation model under a specific preference structure; (3) after the multi-objective optimization model obtains the Pareto front, it still needs to construct the preference information of the Pareto front for a second time to make the optimal solution of a multi-objective decision, while the game model can directly obtain the water resources allocation scheme at one time by participating in the negotiation. The results expand the solution method of water resources allocation models and provide support for rational water resources allocation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Water Resources Management, Policy and Governance)
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15 pages, 1558 KiB  
Article
Interaction of Titanium Dioxide with Formaldehyde in the Presence of Quartz Sand under Static and Dynamic Conditions
by Anthi S. Stefanarou and Constantinos V. Chrysikopoulos
Water 2021, 13(10), 1420; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101420 - 20 May 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2257
Abstract
Formaldehyde (FA) is an extremely active compound that is widely used in numerous applications. Given that FA is a known carcinogen, it is essential to remove it from the environment. Titanium dioxide (TiO2), due to its special physicochemical properties, is a [...] Read more.
Formaldehyde (FA) is an extremely active compound that is widely used in numerous applications. Given that FA is a known carcinogen, it is essential to remove it from the environment. Titanium dioxide (TiO2), due to its special physicochemical properties, is a promising adsorbent for the removal of specific organic compounds from aqueous solutions. In this study, the interaction of TiO2 with FA in the presence and absence of quartz sand, the most common mineral on the Earth’s surface, was investigated under static and dynamic (batch) conditions, at 25 °C. The experimental data suggested that the sorption of FA onto TiO2 can be described adequately by a pseudo-second order kinetic model, indicating that the main sorption mechanism was chemisorption. It was observed that the combination of TiO2 and quartz sand could1 lead up to effective removal of FA from aqueous samples. Full article
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13 pages, 2843 KiB  
Article
Automatic Calibration Module for an Urban Drainage System Model
by Ivar Annus, Anatoli Vassiljev, Nils Kändler and Katrin Kaur
Water 2021, 13(10), 1419; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101419 - 19 May 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3643
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to present an automated module for the calibration of urban drainage system models. A prepared tool based on the Open Water Analytics toolkit included 12 additional calibration parameters as compared to the existing similar solutions. The module [...] Read more.
The purpose of the study was to present an automated module for the calibration of urban drainage system models. A prepared tool based on the Open Water Analytics toolkit included 12 additional calibration parameters as compared to the existing similar solutions. The module included a gradient optimization method that allowed adjustment of up to five parameters simultaneously, and a trial-and-error method that provided the possibility of testing one or two parameters. The user interface was built in MS Excel to simplify use of the developed tool. The user can select preferable parameters for calibration, choose the optimization method, and determine the limits for the calculated values. The performance and functionality of the automatic calibration module was tested in two scenarios using the drainage model of a 10 ha heavily developed area in Tallinn, Estonia. The calibration results revealed that the maximum deviation between the modelled and measured flow rates was less than 5% for both cases. This is a reasonably good fit for drainage models, which typically encounter numerous uncertainties. Therefore, it was concluded that the module can be successfully used for calibrating hydraulic models created in SWMM5. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Drainage Systems in Smart Cities)
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18 pages, 3116 KiB  
Article
Hydrological Processes in Eucalypt and Pine Forested Headwater Catchments within Mediterranean Region
by Anne-Karine Boulet, Mitas E. Rial-Rivas, Carla Ferreira, Celeste O. A. Coelho, Zahra Kalantari, Jan Jacob Keizer and António J. D. Ferreira
Water 2021, 13(10), 1418; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101418 - 19 May 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4837
Abstract
Mediterranean headwater catchments have experienced major land-use changes in recent centuries, namely characterized by afforestation with fast-growing tree species (e.g., pine and eucalyptus). This paper investigates differences in the hydrological response of two forested catchments with distinct Pinus pinaster Aiton (PIN) and Eucalyptus [...] Read more.
Mediterranean headwater catchments have experienced major land-use changes in recent centuries, namely characterized by afforestation with fast-growing tree species (e.g., pine and eucalyptus). This paper investigates differences in the hydrological response of two forested catchments with distinct Pinus pinaster Aiton (PIN) and Eucalyptus globulus Labill. (EUC) covers over 6 hydrological years, from 2010 to 2016. The study was developed in paired catchments located in North–Central Portugal, under wet Mediterranean climate and schist bedrock. Based on rainfall and streamflow measurements, the hydrological responses were analyzed through the water-balance calculations, rainfall-runoff event analyses, and correlations between rainfall characteristics, evapotranspiration, soil moisture, overland flow, and land-cover parameters. The study period recorded a wide range of annual rainfall, between 984 and 2127 mm per years. The annual streamflow displayed greater inter-annual variation, from 208 to 1430 mm for PIN and from 217 to 1291 mm for EUC. The runoff coefficient was higher in the wettest years, with a maximum of 58% for PIN and 61% for EUC, and decreased substantially in the driest year, representing only 17% of the rainfall in PIN and 22% in EUC. Rainfall was predominant during the winter season (41%), followed by autumn (30%) and spring (24%). The streamflow displayed a seasonal behavior in both catchments, with higher runoff coefficient for EUC that for PIN. Half of the annual streamflow occurs during the winter, with the highest average runoff coefficient attained for EUC and PIN respectively being 68% and 64% of the rainfall amount. Annual evapotranspiration was relatively constant through the six years of study and showed higher average values in PIN (907 mm) than EUC (739 mm), highlighting the importance of forest type and showing that mature pine plantations lead to higher water consumption than eucalypt stands. Annual rainfall amount affects evapotranspiration rate (%), the percentage of ET increasing from 37% to 78% for PIN and from 34% to 73% for EUC between the wettest and the driest years, which raises concerns regarding the impact of climate changes on water availability in the mountain areas of the Mediterranean region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of Land-Use Changes on Surface Hydrology and Water Quality)
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16 pages, 34920 KiB  
Article
Detecting Groundwater Temperature Shifts of a Subsurface Urban Heat Island in SE Germany
by Julian A. V. Schweighofer, Michael Wehrl, Sebastian Baumgärtel and Joachim Rohn
Water 2021, 13(10), 1417; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101417 - 19 May 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2872
Abstract
The subsurface beneath cities commonly shows a temperature anomaly, a so-called Subsurface Urban Heat Island (SUHI), due to anthropogenic heat input. This excess heat has multiple effects on groundwater and energy resources, such as groundwater chemistry or the efficiency of geothermal systems, which [...] Read more.
The subsurface beneath cities commonly shows a temperature anomaly, a so-called Subsurface Urban Heat Island (SUHI), due to anthropogenic heat input. This excess heat has multiple effects on groundwater and energy resources, such as groundwater chemistry or the efficiency of geothermal systems, which makes it necessary to investigate the temporal development of a SUHI. For this purpose, temperature profiles of 38 observation wells in the German city of Nuremberg were evaluated from 2015 to 2020 and the measured temperature changes were linked to the surface sealing. The results show that the groundwater temperatures changed between −0.02 K/a and +0.21 K/a, on average by +0.07 K/a during this period. A dependence between the temperature increase and the degree of sealing of the land surface was also observed. In areas with low surface sealing of up to 30% the warming amounts were 0.03 K/a on average, whereas in areas with high sealing of over 60% significantly higher temperature increases of 0.08 K/a on average were found. The results clearly emphasize that the subsurface urban heat island in its current state does not represent a completed process, but that more heat energy continues to enter the subsoil within the city than is the case with near-natural land surfaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Hydrology)
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16 pages, 2245 KiB  
Article
Vegetation and Residence Time Interact to Influence Metabolism and Net Nutrient Uptake in Experimental Agricultural Drainage Systems
by Rachel L. Nifong and Jason M. Taylor
Water 2021, 13(10), 1416; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101416 - 19 May 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2659
Abstract
Agricultural drainage networks within the Lower Mississippi River Basin (LMRB) have potential to attenuate nutrient loading to downstream aquatic ecosystems through best management practices. Nutrient uptake (nitrogen, phosphorus), gross primary production (GPP), ecosystem respiration (ER), and denitrification rates were estimated using a combination [...] Read more.
Agricultural drainage networks within the Lower Mississippi River Basin (LMRB) have potential to attenuate nutrient loading to downstream aquatic ecosystems through best management practices. Nutrient uptake (nitrogen, phosphorus), gross primary production (GPP), ecosystem respiration (ER), and denitrification rates were estimated using a combination of sensor measurements and hourly discrete samples for dissolved nutrients and gases at three hydraulic residence times (2, 4, and 6 h) in three vegetated and three unvegetated ditches. We also measured vegetation and soil nutrient content. GPP and ER were significantly higher in vegetated drainages and increasing hydraulic residence time increased respiration rates. Shorter hydraulic residence times were associated with increased uptake rates for both N and P, and vegetation increased N uptake rates in all hydraulic residence time (HRT) treatments. Vegetation and sediment assimilated N and P over the course of the experiment. Overall, our experimental results demonstrate the strong role of emergent vegetation in nutrient retention and removal processes in agricultural drainage ditch networks. Full article
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13 pages, 2271 KiB  
Article
Moment Analysis for Modeling Soil Water Distribution in Furrow Irrigation: Variable vs. Constant Ponding Depths
by Honeyeh Kazemi, Ali Ashraf Sadraddini, Amir Hossein Nazemi and Charles A Sanchez
Water 2021, 13(10), 1415; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101415 - 18 May 2021
Viewed by 2091
Abstract
Despite increasing use of pressurized irrigation methods, most irrigation projects worldwide still involve surface systems. Accurate estimation of the amount of infiltrating water and its spatial distribution in the soil is of great importance in the design and management of furrow irrigation systems. [...] Read more.
Despite increasing use of pressurized irrigation methods, most irrigation projects worldwide still involve surface systems. Accurate estimation of the amount of infiltrating water and its spatial distribution in the soil is of great importance in the design and management of furrow irrigation systems. Moment analysis has previously been applied to describe the subsurface water distribution using input data from numerical simulations rather than field measured data, and assuming a constant ponding depth in the furrow. A field experiment was conducted in a blocked-end level furrow at Maricopa Agricultural Center, Arizona, USA, to study the effect of time-variable ponding depths on soil water distribution and the resulting wetting bulb under real conditions in the field using moment analysis. The simulated volumetric soil water contents run with variable and constant (average) ponding depths using HYDRUS 2D/3D were almost identical, and both compared favorably with the field data. Hence, only the simulated soil water contents with variable ponding depths were used to calculate the moments. It was concluded that the fluctuating flow depth had no significant influence on the resulting time-evolving ellipses. This was related to the negligible 10-cm variation in ponding depths compared to the high negative matric potential of the unsaturated soil. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Hydrology)
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10 pages, 4277 KiB  
Article
An Investigation of Viscous Torque Loss in Ball Bearing Operating in Various Liquids
by Martin Dobrovolný, Vladimír Habán, Jana Tancjurová and Jan Zbavitel
Water 2021, 13(10), 1414; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101414 - 18 May 2021
Viewed by 2347
Abstract
The limited functionality of seals that are used in hydraulic machines to prevent the liquid from leaking into the bearings may result in decrease in machine efficiency and reliability and may cause an accident of the whole hydraulic machine. However, not every damage [...] Read more.
The limited functionality of seals that are used in hydraulic machines to prevent the liquid from leaking into the bearings may result in decrease in machine efficiency and reliability and may cause an accident of the whole hydraulic machine. However, not every damage of seals must result in a shutdown of the whole machine. In case of partially or fully flooded bearings, the machine can temporarily operate with significantly increased input power and with lower efficiency. Such a limited operation of the machine shortens its lifetime and is accompanied by the presence of torque loss on the shaft. The measurement of torque loss can be helpful during the design process of new machines as well as for an analysis of hydraulic losses and efficiency of prototypes. Moreover, the real-time measurement of torque loss can be used for remote online monitoring of hydraulic machines. The aim of this paper is to present primarily an experimental investigation of the viscous torque loss for ball bearings submerged into liquid. The CFD simulation is also included to distribute the total torque loss between the hub and the bearing. The main goal is to modify the drag coefficient, respectively the friction loss coefficient in SKF’s and Palgrem’s empirical model. The new coefficients may provide a prediction of torque loss in the fully flooded bearings which is not possible with existing models. The torque loss characteristics are determined for specific ball bearings too. In contradiction to partially flooded bearing situation, it is obvious from a experiment, that some coefficients in Palgrem’s model and SKF model are dependent on revolutions when bearings are fully flooded. The experimental investigation of viscous torque loss are carried out for various types of ball bearings, all fully submerged into two various liquids, i.e., oil and water. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Hydraulics and Hydrodynamics)
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20 pages, 7729 KiB  
Article
Identification of Extreme Weather Events Using Meteorological and Hydrological Indicators in the Laborec River Catchment, Slovakia
by Katarzyna Kubiak-Wójcicka, Patrik Nagy, Martina Zeleňáková, Helena Hlavatá and Hany F. Abd-Elhamid
Water 2021, 13(10), 1413; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101413 - 18 May 2021
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2744
Abstract
This study used the standardized precipitation index (SPI) and the standardized runoff index (SRI) to analyze dry and humid conditions in the hill-country catchment area of the Laborec River (Slovakia) over a period of 50 years (1970–2019). Analysis of the SPI and SRI [...] Read more.
This study used the standardized precipitation index (SPI) and the standardized runoff index (SRI) to analyze dry and humid conditions in the hill-country catchment area of the Laborec River (Slovakia) over a period of 50 years (1970–2019). Analysis of the SPI and SRI over various time scales showed the occurrence of wet periods (index > 1.0) that were associated with precipitation exceeding the long-term norm, and dry periods (index below −1.0), which were the result of small amounts of precipitation. Analysis of the correlation between the SPI and SRI on different time scales revealed that the catchment showed a weaker response to precipitation over short time scales (1 and 3 months) and a stronger response over longer accumulation periods (6, 9, and 12 months). The highest annual correlation coefficient (r = 0.72) was recorded between SRI-6 at the Humenne hydrometric station and SPI-9 at the Medzilaborce meteorological station in the upper part of the catchment area. The strongest annual correlation (r = 0.69) was obtained between the Izkovce and Kamenica stations in the lower part of the catchment area. As shown by the cross-relationships examined over different periods of accumulation of flows and precipitation, hydrological droughts appeared as a result of the occurrence of meteorological droughts with a three-month delay. The conducted analysis showed that in the case of the Laborec river catchment area, there was a strong correlation between the occurrence of meteorological drought and hydrological drought. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Management of Flood Risk in Urban Areas)
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20 pages, 5169 KiB  
Article
Delineation of a Quaternary Aquifer Using Integrated Hydrogeological and Geophysical Estimation of Hydraulic Conductivity on the Tibetan Plateau, China
by Tuong Vi Tran, Johannes Buckel, Philipp Maurischat, Handuo Tang, Zhengliang Yu, Andreas Hördt, Georg Guggenberger, Fan Zhang, Antje Schwalb and Thomas Graf
Water 2021, 13(10), 1412; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101412 - 18 May 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2575
Abstract
Groundwater is the most unexplored element of the hydrologic cycle on the Tibetan Plateau (TP) due to harsh climate conditions. This study aims at delineating and characterizing the unexplored Zhanongtang–Ganmanong aquifer, situated in the Zhagu subcatchment of the Nam Co catchment, south-central TP. [...] Read more.
Groundwater is the most unexplored element of the hydrologic cycle on the Tibetan Plateau (TP) due to harsh climate conditions. This study aims at delineating and characterizing the unexplored Zhanongtang–Ganmanong aquifer, situated in the Zhagu subcatchment of the Nam Co catchment, south-central TP. Multiple hydrogeophysical and lithological in situ field and laboratory methods are applied: depth-to-water-table measurements, grain size analysis, hydraulic empirical and field methods to estimate hydraulic conductivity (K), and analysis of electrical resistivity tomography profiles. Integration of these methods revealed the existence of a Quaternary hydrostratigraphic unit that was found to be unconsolidated, laterally heterogeneous and homogeneous over depth. The results revealed consistent K ranges of three K zones, which is in accordance with local lithology. The K ranges are applicable to other locations within the Nam Co catchment with similar lithology as in the study area without further field experiments. Permafrost was found to be absent in the study area ranging from 4730 m a.s.l. to 5200 m a.s.l. altitude. These results provide insight into the hydrogeological conditions of the TP and are useful for conceptual and numerical groundwater flow modeling to predict future changes of water fluxes and water budgets caused by climatic change, especially in remote areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Hydrology)
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18 pages, 4134 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Element Mobility in River Sediment Using Different Single Extraction Procedures and Assessment of Probabilistic Ecological Risk
by Sanja Sakan, Stanislav Frančišković-Bilinski, Dragana Đorđević, Aleksandar Popović, Nenad Sakan, Sandra Škrivanj and Halka Bilinski
Water 2021, 13(10), 1411; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101411 - 18 May 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2253
Abstract
In this manuscript, samples of Kupa River sediments were examined using three different extraction agents. The aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of single extraction procedures to investigate the bioavailability and mobility of major and trace elements (Al, As, Ba, [...] Read more.
In this manuscript, samples of Kupa River sediments were examined using three different extraction agents. The aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of single extraction procedures to investigate the bioavailability and mobility of major and trace elements (Al, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, P, Pb, S, Si, Sr, Ti, V, and Zn) from river sediment. Two forms of studied elements were evaluated: mobile, the most toxic element form (extraction with 1 M CH3COONH4 and 0.01 M CaCl2) and potentially mobilized form (2 M HNO3 extraction). The estimation of the ecological risk, with the application of the probability distribution of RI (potential ecological risk index) values, is yielded with the help of the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS). Ammonium acetate is proved to be a better extraction agent than calcium chloride. A positive correlation between the content of all extracted elements with nitric acid and the total element content indicates that 2 M HNO3 efficiently extracts all studied elements. Results showed anthropogenic sources of cadmium and copper and high barium mobility. The MCS suggests that risk of Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn was low; As and Cd posed a lower and median ecological risk in the studied areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geochemistry of Water and Sediment Ⅱ)
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15 pages, 1816 KiB  
Article
Trace Metals Do Not Accumulate Over Time in The Edible Mediterranean Jellyfish Rhizostoma pulmo (Cnidaria, Scyphozoa) from Urban Coastal Waters
by Lorena Basso, Paride Papadia, Lucia Rizzo, Danilo Migoni, Francesco P. Fanizzi and Stefano Piraino
Water 2021, 13(10), 1410; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101410 - 18 May 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2533
Abstract
Jellyfish as food represent a millennial tradition in Asia. Recently, jellyfish have also been proposed as a valuable source of protein in Western countries. To identify health risks associated with the potential human consumption of jellyfish as food, trace element accumulation was assessed [...] Read more.
Jellyfish as food represent a millennial tradition in Asia. Recently, jellyfish have also been proposed as a valuable source of protein in Western countries. To identify health risks associated with the potential human consumption of jellyfish as food, trace element accumulation was assessed in the gonads and umbrella tissues of the Mediterranean Rhizostoma pulmo (Macri, 1778), sampled over a period of 16 months along the shallow coastal waters a short distance from the city of Taranto, an area affected by metallurgic and oil refinery sources of pollution. Higher tissue concentrations of trace elements were usually detected in gonads than in umbrella tissue. In particular, significant differences in the toxic metalloid As, and in the metals Mn, Mo, and Zn, were observed among different tissues. The concentrations of vanadium were slightly higher in umbrella tissues than in gonads. No positive correlation was observed between element concentration and jellyfish size, suggesting the lack of bioaccumulation processes. Moreover, toxic element concentrations in R. pulmo were found below the threshold levels for human consumption allowed by Australian, USA, and EU Food Regulations. These results corroborate the hypothesis that R. pulmo is a safe, potentially novel food source, even when jellyfish are harvested from coastal areas affected by anthropogenic impacts. Full article
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10 pages, 2405 KiB  
Article
Performance of a Handheld Chlorophyll-a Fluorometer: Potential Use for Rapid Algae Monitoring
by Hamdhani Hamdhani, Drew E. Eppehimer, David Walker and Michael T. Bogan
Water 2021, 13(10), 1409; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101409 - 18 May 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3590
Abstract
Chlorophyll-a measurements are an important factor in the water quality monitoring of surface waters, especially for determining the trophic status and ecosystem management. However, a collection of field samples for extractive analysis in a laboratory may not fully represent the field conditions. [...] Read more.
Chlorophyll-a measurements are an important factor in the water quality monitoring of surface waters, especially for determining the trophic status and ecosystem management. However, a collection of field samples for extractive analysis in a laboratory may not fully represent the field conditions. Handheld fluorometers that can measure chlorophyll-a in situ are available, but their performance in waters with a variety of potential light-interfering substances has not yet been tested. We tested a handheld fluorometer for sensitivity to ambient light and turbidity and compared these findings with EPA Method 445.0 using water samples obtained from two urban lakes in Tucson, Arizona, USA. Our results suggested that the probe was not sensitive to ambient light and performed well at low chlorophyll-a concentrations (<25 µg/L) across a range of turbidity levels (50–70 NTU). However, the performance was lower when the chlorophyll-a concentrations were >25 µg/L and turbidity levels were <50 NTU. To account for this discrepancy, we developed a calibration equation to use for this handheld fluorometer when field monitoring for potential harmful algal blooms in water bodies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Field Methods for Water Quality Surveying)
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15 pages, 2720 KiB  
Article
A Geographical Information Approach for Forest Maintenance Operations with Emphasis on the Drainage Infrastructure and Culverts
by Apostolos Kantartzis, Chrisovalantis Malesios, Anastasia Stergiadou, Nikolas Theofanous, Stergios Tampekis and Garyfallos Arabatzis
Water 2021, 13(10), 1408; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101408 - 18 May 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2457
Abstract
Forest operations engineering deals with all the essential infrastructure operations aiming at the efficient management of forested areas, which constitutes a prerequisite for the development of mountainous economies. Thus, the need for addressing this objective in an effective way, in conjunction with other [...] Read more.
Forest operations engineering deals with all the essential infrastructure operations aiming at the efficient management of forested areas, which constitutes a prerequisite for the development of mountainous economies. Thus, the need for addressing this objective in an effective way, in conjunction with other issues associated with the protection and preservation of forest wealth, is of utmost importance. There are a whole range of forest operations for which a decision-making web-tool can potentially be utilized. This paper introduces an online decision-making tool for managing forest roads, which uses information derived from rainfall-runoff simulation. The proposed tool can be used to provide information about forest works maintenance and damage prevention in a forest environment. Furthermore, the tool assists in visualizing forest operations and achieves the optimization of their management. The development of the decision-making tool is also described, and a real case study (the Koupa watershed) is presented in detail to demonstrate its application and resulting advantages. The rainfall-runoff simulation was conducted for ten sub-basins in order to evaluate the efficiency of the corresponding culverts in the Koupa watershed. Full article
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15 pages, 7190 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Phragmites australis Dieback on Channel Sedimentation in the Mississippi River Delta: A Conceptual Modeling Study
by Kelin Hu, Ehab Meselhe and J. Andrew Nyman
Water 2021, 13(10), 1407; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13101407 - 18 May 2021
Viewed by 2577
Abstract
Phragmites australis is a globally distributed wetland plant. At the mouth of the Mississippi River, P. australis on natural levees of the network of distributary channels appears to increase the flow in the deep draft navigation channel, which, in turn, may reduce the [...] Read more.
Phragmites australis is a globally distributed wetland plant. At the mouth of the Mississippi River, P. australis on natural levees of the network of distributary channels appears to increase the flow in the deep draft navigation channel, which, in turn, may reduce the sedimentation and benefit the navigation dredging. For several years, P. australis has been dying in the Mississippi River’s Bird’s Foot Delta, which appears to be shortening the distributary channels and increasing the lateral flow from the remaining portions. A conceptual model based on D-FLOW FM was applied to calculate channel sedimentation in a series of idealized deltaic systems to predict the consequences of P. australis dieback and other factors that diminish the delta complexity, such as sea-level rise and subsidence, on sedimentation in the distributary channels. Channel complexity in each system, which was quantified with an index ranging from 0 to 10 that we developed. Model results indicate that sedimentation was insensitive to the channel complexity in simple deltas but was sensitive to the channel complexity in complex deltas, such as the current Mississippi River Delta with extensive P. australis. Channel sedimentation remains stable from 0 until the channel complexity index reaches 6. In more complex deltas, the sedimentation decreases rapidly as the channel complexity increases. The sedimentation is also affected by waves, river discharge, sediment concentration, grain sizes, and bed level. River managers in Louisiana may benefit from new models based on bathymetric data throughout the Bird’s Foot Delta; data on the effects of the P. australis belowground biomass on bank erodibility across a range of current velocities; and data on the effects of P. australis stem density, diameter, and height on the lateral flow across a range of river stages and tidal stages to help them decide how much to respond to Phragmites dieback. Options include increased navigation dredging, increased restoration of the channel complexity via a thin layer of sediment deposition on natural levees and the planting of more salt-tolerant vegetation on natural levees. Full article
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