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This study presents an analysis of the influence of climatic conditions and the operation of a dam reservoir on the occurrence of ice cover and water temperature in two rivers (natural and transformed by reservoir operations) located in the Carpathian Mountains (central Europe). The analyses are based on data obtained from four hydrological and two climatological stations. The Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) machine learning model was used to quantitatively separate the effects of climate change from the effects arising from the operation of the dam reservoir. An analysis of the effects of reservoir operation on the phase synchronization between air and river water temperatures based on a continuous wavelet transform was also conducted. The analyses showed that there has been an increase in the average air temperature of the study area in November by 1.2 °C per decade (over the period 1984–2016), accompanied by an increase in winter water temperature of 0.3 °C per decade over the same period. As water and air temperatures associated with the river not influenced by the reservoir increased, there was a simultaneous reduction in the duration of ice cover, reaching nine days per decade. The river influenced by the dam reservoir showed a 1.05 °C increase in winter water temperature from the period 1994–2007 to the period 1981–1994, for which the operation of the reservoir was 65% responsible and climatic conditions were 35% responsible. As a result of the reservoir operation, the synchronization of air and water temperatures was disrupted. Increasing water temperatures resulted in a reduction in the average annual number of days with ice cover (by 27.3 days), for which the operation of the dam reservoir was 77.5% responsible, while climatic conditions were 22.5% responsible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite xerogel films with structural orientation, controlled swelling degree, and drug‐release ability are prepared using biocompatible megamolecular liquid crystalline polysaccharide (sacran) secreted by a cyanobacterium Aphanothece sacrum. The sacran xerogel films (Sac‐XFs) are formed by drying sacran aqueous solution including vitamin C (L‐ascorbic acid, AA) and trehalose under various conditions. In X‐ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry of Sac‐XFs, diffractions or melting points of either AA or trehalose are not detected, indicating no crystal formation. Additionally, the stability of entrapped AA in Sac‐XFs is evaluated through changes in film color and percentage loss, to indicate that AA stability is enhanced by entrapment in Sac‐XFs in the presence of trehalose. Scanning electron microscopy of Sac‐XFs reveals the morphological orientation, and number of striped lines along the longitudinal axis of film edges on side views while no visible textures in top views. When Sac‐XFs are immersed in water, anisotropic swelling is observed, and anisotropy decreases with an increase in the drying temperature of the films. AA is released preferentially from the hydrogel sheet edges, indicating the direction‐controlled release. Thus, the trehalose/sacran composite xerogels offer an alternative platform for preserving and controlled‐releasing sensitive substances for fields of foods, pharmaceutics, and cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Romania has a rich hydrographic network, which permitted the construction of over 80 large dams on its water courses, estimating a number between 545 and 674 hydropower plants that were either built or were in a different construction stage on the rivers of Romania in 2021. These hydropower plants were often built outside specific legislation regarding ecological impacts, especially before 1990. Longitudinal fragmentation of rivers causes severe ecological impacts on biodiversity, food chains, and nutrient cycles. Someșul Cald River is the main tributary of Someșul Mic River, the most important water source for the northwestern region of Transylvania. On its course, several dams and reservoirs were built from 1968 to 1980 for electricity production and population freshwater supply. The present study aimed to analyze the length–weight relationships (LWRs) and condition factors occurring in the longitudinally fragmented Someșul Cald River. The LWRs, relative condition factor Kn, and Fulton condition factor K were determined based on total length and wet body weight. Comparisons of LWRs, Kn, and K across river sections constrained by dams showed that some fish species exhibited similar growth patterns and physiological conditions, while others differed significantly. Freshwater fish physiology is altered by longitudinal fragmentation, both natural and artificial. Barriers such as dams influence the energy gradient, limiting feed availability and, consequently, the life history of fish species. Long-term management plans regarding conservation should take into consideration existing fish species population dynamics, along with their physiological and somatic status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a simulation-based approach for optimizing CO2 injection into depleted gas reservoirs, with the goal of enhancing underground CO2 storage. The research employs a two-dimensional dynamic reservoir model, developed using Darcy's law, to describe gas flow in a pressure-homogeneous porous medium, along with real gas equations. The model integrates the Du Fort–Frenkel and finite-difference methods to accurately simulate the behavior of CO2 during injection and storage. Real data from an operational gas storage facility were used to calibrate the model. CO2sim v1 software, specifically developed for this purpose, simulates CO2 injection cycles and quiescence phases, enabling the optimization of storage capacity and energy efficiency. The reservoir model, based on the engineering of the geological structure, is discretized into approximately 16,000 cells and solved using the finite-difference method, allowing for rapid simulation of CO2 injection and quiescence processes. The average computation time for a 150-day cycle is approximately 5 min. Simulation results indicate that increasing the number of injection wells and carefully controlling the injection rates significantly improves the distribution of CO2 within the reservoir, thereby enhancing storage efficiency. Additionally, appropriate well placement and prolonged quiescence periods lead to better CO2 dispersion, increasing the storage potential while reducing energy costs. The study concludes that further development of the software, along with comprehensive technical and economic assessments, is required to fully optimize CO2 storage on a commercial scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the risks of planktonic algal proliferation and its environmental causes is crucial for protecting water quality and controlling ecological risks. Reservoirs, due to the characteristics of slow flow rates and long hydraulic retention times, are more prone to eutrophication and algal proliferation. Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) serves as an indicator of planktonic algal biomass. Exploring the intricate interactions and driving mechanisms between Chl-a and the water environment, and the potential risks of algal blooms, is crucial for ensuring the ecological safety of reservoirs and the health of water users. This study focused on the Danjiangkou Reservoir (DJKR), the core water source of the Middle Route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project of China (MRSNWDPC). The multivariate statistical methods and structural equation modeling were used to explore the relationships between chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) contents and water quality factors and understand the driving mechanisms affecting Chl-a variations. The Copula function and Bayesian theory were combined to analyze the risk of changes in Chl-a concentrations at Taocha (TC) station, which is the core water source intake point of the MRSNWDPC. The results showed that the factors driving planktonic algal proliferation were spatially heterogeneous. The main factors affecting Chl-a concentrations in Dan Reservoir (DR) were water physicochemical factors (water temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH value, and turbidity) with a total contribution rate of 60.18%, whereas those in Han Reservoir (HR) were nutrient factors (total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and ammonia nitrogen) with a total contribution rate of 73.58%. In TC, the main factors were water physicochemical factors (turbidity, pH, and water temperature) and nutrient factors (total phosphorus) with total contribution rates of 39.76% and 45.78%, respectively. When Chl-a concentrations in other areas of the DJKR ranged from the minimum to the uppermost quartile, the probabilities that Chl-a concentrations at the TC station exceeded 3.4 μg/L (the benchmark value of Chl-a for lakes in the central-eastern lake area of China) owing to the influence of these areas were all less than 10%. Thus, the risk of planktonic algal proliferation at the MRSNWDPC intake point is low. This study developed an integrated framework to investigate spatiotemporal changes in algal proliferation and their driving factors in reservoirs, which can be used to support water quality management in mega hydro projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Revealing the subtle variations in thermal structure in a reservoir is crucial for accurately understanding the interaction between water and the carbon cycle. This study provides a detailed description of the thermal structure of Dalongdong reservoir, a representative subtropical stratified reservoir in Guangxi, China. It unveils the three stable state changes in water – mixing, microstratification, and stratification – along with their influencing factors. The study emphasizes air temperature (AT) as the primary factor influencing water temperature (WT) stability, followed by water level. Cross-correlation analysis shows that adjacent WTs experience a prolonged response hysteresis during the stratification period, while the mixing period exhibits a shorter hysteresis. Wavelet analysis revealed that AT and surface-layer WT exhibited a dominant oscillation period of 16–32 h. The periodicity of other water layers is not obvious. This framework can help to enhance our understanding of material cycles and protection of the water environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The control of African trypanosomiasis (AT) in Eastern and Southern Africa, including Zambia, faces huge challenges due to the involvement of wild and domestic animal reservoirs. Free-roaming dogs in wildlife-populated and tsetse-infested villages of Zambia's Mambwe district are exposed to infectious tsetse bites. Consuming fresh raw game meat and bones further exacerbates their risk of contracting AT. We focus on the reservoir role of such dogs in maintaining and transmitting diverse species of trypanosomes that are infective to humans and livestock in Zambia's Mambwe district. A cohort of 162 dogs was enrolled for follow-up at 3 different time points from June to December 2018 in selected villages of Malama, Mnkhanya, and Nsefu chiefdoms of Mambwe district, eastern Zambia. Blood and serum were screened for AT by microscopy, GM6 ELISA, PCR (ITS1 and SRA), and Sanger sequencing. Out of the 162 dogs in the cohort, 40 were lost to follow-up and only 122 remained traceable at the end of the study. GM6 ELISA detected Trypanosoma antibodies in 121 dogs (74.7%) and ITS1-PCR detected DNA involving single and mixed infections of T. congolense, T. brucei, and suspected T. simiae or T. godfreyi in 115 dogs (70.9%). The human-infective T. b. rhodesiense was detected by SRA PCR in 67 dogs (41.4%), and some sequence data that support the findings of this study have been deposited in the GenBank under accession numbers OL961811, OL961812, and OL961813. Our study demonstrates that the Trypanosoma reservoir community in Zambia is wider than was thought and includes domesticated dogs. As dogs are active carriers of human and livestock-infective trypanosomes, they pose a risk of transmitting AT in endemic villages of Mambwe district as they are neglected and left untreated. To fully bring AT under control, countries such as Zambia where the role of animal reservoirs is important, should not limit their prevention and treatment efforts to livestock (especially cattle) but also include dogs that play an integral part in most rural communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming has caused an increase in the frequency and duration of droughts worldwide. Droughts could trigger large changes in physico-chemical conditions and phytoplankton community in waterbodies, resulting in a shift in the phytoplankton community. Spring diatom blooms in reservoirs have been increasingly observed in the past decade in the Taihu Lake basin. The aim of the present study is to elucidate the impacts of droughts on aquatic environment and to determine the driving factors for the succession of the phytoplankton functional groups based on the analysis of data collected during spring from 2009 to 2020 in the Daxi Reservoir. The unimodal relationship between 1-month aggregated precipitation index and phytoplankton species richness indicated the competitive exclusion occurred in extremely drought period. The structural equation modeling indicated that drought-related low water level conditions intensified sediment resuspension, and increased the phosphorus-enriched nonalgal turbidity in the Daxi Reservoir. Concurrently, a steady shift in the Reynolds phytoplankton functional groups from L0, TD, J, X2, and A (phytoplankton taxa preferring low turbidity and nutrient conditions) to TB (pennate diatoms being adapt to turbid and nutrient-rich conditions) was observed. The increased TP and non-algal turbidity in addition to the lowered disturbance contribute to the prevalence of Group TB. Considering the difficulties in nutrient control, timely water replenishment is often a feasible method of controlling the dominance of harmful algae for reservoir management. Finally, alternative water sources are in high demand for ensuring ecological safety and water availability when dealing with drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reservoir-type drinking water sources in the Pearl River Delta ensure a safe urban water supply; thus, land-use changes are important factors affecting these aquatic environments. In this study, we investigated the water source areas of medium and large reservoirs in the Pearl River Delta to determine the contributions and trends of land-use changes within reservoir drinking water source areas to the reservoir water quality. First, we analyzed dynamic land-use changes in reservoir-type water sources in the Pearl River Delta region from 1980 to 2020. We then used the gray relational analysis method to determine the relationship between land use and water quality changes. We analyzed changes in the main water quality factors in the Dajingshan Reservoir (Zhuhai) and determined the relationship between changes in land use and the reservoir water quality index over the past 20 years using correlation and redundancy analyses. The results indicate that paddy fields, dry land, forest land, and water areas were the main land-use types around reservoir-type drinking water sources in the Pearl River Delta. Although construction land and water areas expanded, paddy fields, dry land, and forest land areas decreased. The land transfer trend was mainly from forest and cultivated land to production and living land (e. g. 1980-2020), construction land) and water areas. With the implementation of the policy, the aforementioned land-use transformation began to slow. Regionally, the risk sources of non-point source pollution in the study area gradually decreased, but still accounted for 9.48% of total land use in 2020. The water quality of reservoir sources in the Pearl River Delta improved; however, nitrogen pollution remains problematic. Gray relational analysis indicates that land-use changes and water quality were correlated (in order of decreasing strength): construction land > agricultural land > forest land. Non-point source pollution caused by land use remains an important influencing factor. The Dajingshan Reservoir water quality is seriously polluted, as the total nitrogen exceeded the standard during several months, and nitrogen and phosphorus pollution gradually increased over time. Nitrogen and phosphorus were the main pollutants in the reservoir. Big mountain reservoir redundancy, correlation, and partial least squares regression analyses indicate that the land use type and water quality index were correlated, forest land and the nitrogen/phosphorus water quality index were negatively correlated, and construction and agricultural land were significantly positively correlated, which had a positive effect on the total nitrogen concentration. The influence of land-use patterns on non-point source pollution remains an uncontrollable factor. The specific effects of land-use changes on water quality are complex; therefore, further modeling should investigate the mechanism by which the water supply quality is influenced to improve reservoir water quality, ensure the safety of the regional water supply, and provide support for ecological restoration measures in protected areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Widely regarded as one of the chief causes of diseases in cattle population, bovine herpesvirus‐1 (BoHV‐1) has the potential to infect sheep and goat, making them potential reservoirs or hosts for this virus. Thus, preventive measures against BoHV‐1 in cattle should not overlook the ability of this virus to infect other animals. Aims: Therefore, the focal point of this study was to ascertain the seroprevalence of BoHV‐1 in 300 healthy goats, the relationship between host and the environmental determinants of infection, and the contributing role of goats in the epidemiology of the BoHV‐1. Materials & Methods: In order to pinpoint the existing antibodies to BoHV‐1, the obtained sera were analyzed by Virus Neutralization test. Results: According to this test, the seroprevalence of BoHV‐1 appeared to be 64.33% in southwestern Iran. What logistic regression disclosed was that the odds ratio between age and infection with BoHV‐1 was 0.83 (p = 0.01), representing a decrease of 17% as goats grew one year older. In addition, females manifested a higher relative frequency of infection compared to males, with the odds of infection in female goats being registered at 1.88, compared to those in males (p = 0.2). Moreover, contrasted with goats lacking any history of abortion, those with a history of abortion featured 1.1 as the odds ratio (p = 0.87). The seroprevalence in Hendijan, Ahvaz, Shushtar and Dasht e Azadegan was detected to stand at 73.24, 71.30, 55.56 and 47.06 percent, respectively, with 6% of fluctuation in the infection rates being attributed to various geographical locations under the scrutiny of this study (p = 0.003). Discussion and Conclusion: Having attested the marked seroprevalence of BoHV‐1, the definitive role of goats in the epidemiology of this virus as a secondary host or reservoir was confirmed by the present study, necessitating the strict monitoring of BoHV‐1 in goats by animal health authorities in areas where BoHV‐1 abounds in cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Triassic-Jurassic successions of the Sulaiman Fold-Thrust Belt, Pakistan, are predominantly composed of limestone with minor proportions of shale, marl, and sandstone, accumulated at the northwestern passive margin of the Indian Plate within the Palaeo-Tethys. The current work is an outcome of field observations, thin-section petrographic studies, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), aiming to reconstruct the palaeoenvironments and diagenetic pathways. Facies analysis and microscopic descriptions revealed sixteen microfacies, including mud-supported microfacies (mudstone and wackestone), grain-supported microfacies (packstone and grainstone) and calcisiltite. The Triassic succession includes calcisiltite and radiolarite, deposited below the CCD. Carbonates of the study area reflect both early-stage diagenesis (micrite envelopes, syntaxial rim cement, drusy mosaic calcite cement, and microbial micritization) - and late-stage diagenesis (chemical compaction, partial mechanical compaction, filling of fractures, and stylolites). Specific types of cement including dog tooth, syntaxial overgrowths, circumgranular, granular, radiaxial acicular and drusy mosaic calcite cements, indicate an early diagenetic stage of the marine phreatic zone. The Triassic-Jurassic carbonates have been affected by various diagenetic processes, which include cementation, compaction, dissolution, replacement and de-dolomitization, indicating primarily alteration by marine phreatic diagenesis, later burial diagenetic processes and mechanical breakdown of the rocks subsequently controlled by tectonics. Sea level changes, punctuated by tectonics and the paleogeographic evolution of the Indian Plate, controlled these depositional and diagenetic changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vibrio cholerae is the causative agent of cholera, an acute diarrheal disease that spreads locally and globally in epidemics and pandemics. Although it was discovered that fish harbor V. cholerae strains in their intestines, most investigations revealed non-toxic V. cholerae serogroups in fish. Due to the rarity of toxigenic V. cholerae serogroups, it is difficult to cultivate these strains from environmental samples. Hence, here we aimed to uncover evidence of the occurrence of toxigenic V. cholerae in the intestines and spleens of various fish species. By using molecular detection tools, we show that V. cholerae O1 and strains positive for the cholera toxin inhabit both healthy and diseased fish intestines and spleens, suggesting that fish may serve as intermediate vectors of toxigenic V. cholerae. No significant differences were found between the abundance of toxigenic V. cholerae (either O1 or cholera toxin positive strains) in the healthy and the diseased fish intestines or spleens. In conclusion, a variety of fish species may serve as potential vectors and reservoirs of toxigenic V. cholerae as they form a link between the other reservoirs of V. cholerae (chironomids, copepods, and waterbirds). Similarly, they may aid in the spread of this bacterium between water bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the formation of methane flows in the Rybinsk Reservoir and the variability of methane concentration in the water based on several field campaigns conducted in different seasons. The Rybinsk Reservoir is a very large, relatively shallow, low-flow, mesotrophic–eutrophic, morphologically complex basin–valley reservoir with multiyear flow regulation created on the Upper Volga in 1941. A total of 71 stations have been sampled for water and air to determine methane concentrations, combined with profiling the water column. As a result, a network of reference stations is established for regular measurements, along with additional stations in the reservoir and river mouths. Control samples are taken from the hydroelectric units of the hydropower plant, as well as downstream of the Sheksna HPP dam within the city of Rybinsk. Overall, the Rybinsk Reservoir is characterized by relatively low methane concentrations—at most stations, the average dissolved CH4 content does not exceed 20 µL/L. The lowest concentrations are observed in the winter period. Methane fluxes from the surface of the Rybinsk Reservoir range from 4 to 718 mgC–CH4 m–2 day–1. Specific fluxes (SFs) measured in the summer period are higher than those measured in the fall, and in summer, the spatial variability of the measured fluxes is more significant. Flux values depend on the stratification of the reservoir, the oxygen content in the water, organic matter in the bottom sediments, and other factors. Methane degassing through the dam is significantly less than the surface fluxes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Features of the formation of vertical stratification of water masses in reservoirs caused by the heterogeneity of the distribution of water mineralization are considered. These effects with different geneses are considered using the example of three specific significantly different water bodies. As a first example, the Kama Reservoir in the confluence of the Sylva and Chusovaya rivers is considered, characterized in winter by a significantly different hydrochemical regime. In the zone of their confluence in winter, vertical stratification of water masses is formed, which is used to significantly reduce the rigidity of water masses. It has been shown that the intraday unevenness of the operation of the Kama hydroelectric power plant (HPP) significantly affects the fluctuations in the boundary of water masses. At the same time, the position of the water mass interface itself is very stable relative to the seasonal operation of the reservoir. As a second example, a small reservoir located in the zone of active technogenesis is considered, characterized by filtration discharges of highly mineralized groundwater. If the stratification of water masses in these examples is quite stable throughout the entire season, then in the third example—the Kama Reservoir in the area of Berezniki, located in the zone of support pinching out—it is very short-lived; it can only be observed for several days. Despite its relative short duration, it is very significant for ensuring a sustainable water supply. Factors determining the duration of observation of vertical heterogeneity of water masses of water bodies are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper summarizes the results of the database of changes in the specific methane flux at various types of water reservoirs in Russia in which the authors participated. Measurements were carried out by the method of floating chambers in different periods of the annual hydroecological cycle. A comparison of the data with the results of foreign experience is given. An approach to the parameterization of specific methane flux for calculating the maximum possible methane emission from artificial reservoirs when developing quantitative quotas of greenhouse gas emissions is proposed. The estimation both in different phases of regime (stratification and homothermia) and for separate morphological parts of reservoirs differing in depth is offered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The curve of landslide thrust plays a key role in landslide design. The commonly used transfer coefficient method (TCM) and Morgenstern-Price method (MPM) are analyzed. TCM does not take into account the moment balance between slices. Although MPM considers the moment balance, the calculation is complex, and it does not consider that the force between slices may be less than zero at the back edge of the landslide. The rationality and feasibility of the improved MPM are verified by calculating the landslide stability coefficient and landslide thrust at different reservoir water levels. This paper studies the law of landslide thrust when the reservoir water level changes, and discusses the determination of design thrust, to provide a certain theoretical basis for the design of reservoir landslides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article raises the topic of the critical examination of polypropylene, a key polymeric material, and its extensive application within the automotive industry, particularly focusing on the manufacturing of brake fluid reservoirs. This study aims to enhance the understanding of polypropylene's behavior under mechanical stresses through a series of laboratory destruction tests and numerical simulations, emphasizing the finite element method (FEM). A novel aspect of this research is the introduction of the PEAK parameter, a groundbreaking approach designed to assess the material's resilience against varying states of strain, known as triaxiality. This parameter facilitates the identification of critical areas prone to crack initiation, thereby enabling the optimization of component design with a minimized safety margin, which is crucial for cost-effective production. The methodology involves conducting burst tests to locate crack initiation sites, followed by FEM simulations to determine the PEAK threshold value for the Sabic 83MF10 polypropylene material. The study successfully validates the predictive capability of the PEAK parameter, demonstrating a high correlation between simulated results and actual laboratory tests. This validation underscores the potential of the PEAK parameter as a predictive tool for enhancing the reliability and safety of polypropylene automotive components. The research presented in this article contributes significantly to the field of material science and engineering by providing a deeper insight into the mechanical behavior of polypropylene and introducing an effective tool for predicting crack initiation in automotive components. The findings hold promise for advancing the design and manufacturing processes in the automotive industry, with potential applications extending to other sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India's electrical sector has witnessed a significant decline in hydropower share, leading to an increased reliance on thermal power generation, exacerbating greenhouse gas emissions, and altering rainfall patterns. To mitigate these challenges, a pioneering approach of integrating Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FSPV) plants with hydropower reservoirs emerges. This research focuses on the Srisailam hydropower reservoir, estimating FSPV potential in four scenarios and evaluating two floating structures. The results unveil a remarkable transformation: covering less than 3% of the reservoir area could double installed power capacity and boost electricity production by 81%, adding 2664 GWh annually. Additionally, implementing FSPV leads to water savings of 46.57 million cubic meters per year, generating an extra 15.01 GWh of hydropower yearly. This visionary integration offers a sustainable solution, balancing energy generation with water conservation. It urges policymakers and innovators to embrace renewable energy's coexistence with responsible resource management. By harnessing this synergy, India can pave the way toward a greener, more sustainable future, mitigating climate change's impact and securing energy for generations to come. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ensuring a balance between supply and demand is critical within electricity grids, requiring a supply composition that guarantees consistent service provision in the short and medium term. Between 2008 and 2017, Ecuador's electricity generation capacity expanded significantly, with an investment of approximately USD 8150 million into harnessing the potential energy of water. This led to the construction of five high-capacity hydroelectric projects by 2017, contributing 33.4% of the sector's energy output by 2023. However, it is important to note that if installed hydroelectric projects operate as run-of-river plants, with limited reservoir capacity, they can only regulate water use for electricity generation on an hourly basis. As of 2023, these run-of-river plants represent 68.8% of Ecuador's total hydroelectric capacity within the National Interconnected System (SNI). Consequently, during periods of low inflows, supplementary energy from other power generation plants is necessary to prevent energy crises. This paper addresses the impact on energy storing for electricity generation resulting from the evolution of hydroelectric power plant entry from 2006 to 2023. This aspect has not been thoroughly examined in hydrothermal systems, which primarily focus on potential energy obtained from dams. Our approach involves a statistical analysis of hydroelectric dam reservoir operational levels. We further explore the influence on demand service within Ecuador's electricity system, particularly during observed energy crises towards the end of 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subsurface natural hydrogen accumulations that can be economically and safely recovered are a major target of the present roadmap towards the use of hydrogen as an alternative and C-free energy resource. The existence of H 2 -rich reservoirs in ophiolites, where H 2 is produced via serpentinization, was theoretically predicted based on the intensity of gas seeps in Turkey and Albania. Here, we examine the geological bases supporting the potential existence of H 2 reservoirs within ophiolites in general, also considering available data on ophiolitic petroleum reservoirs, and we document a direct observation of a H 2 -rich accumulation within an ophiolite. We studied the case of a borehole, drilled in the 1970s for metal mining exploration purposes within the Tișovița–Iuți ophiolite, in Romania, which accidentally encountered pressurized gas with ∼29 vol% H 2 at a depth of about 800 m. We reconstructed the geometry of the ophiolite sequence in correspondence with the well and suggested that the reservoir is within cataclastic dunite near the tectonic contact between layered dunite and the harzburgite-dunite peridotites; the upper, non deformed portion of serpentinized layered dunite, likely with the contribution of tonalite veins, acted as a fluid trap. Although plugged, we detected H 2 leakage from this well and from a second well in the same area, with H 2 concentrations exceeding 100 ppmv in the air and 0.1 mg H 2 /L in the water within the wellhead open casing. We propose a broad conceptual model in which deformed, fractured, and non-deformed, impermeable sections of serpentinized peridotites can determine ophiolitic H 2 -rich reservoirs and traps, respectively, as factors that shall be considered in the guidelines for H 2 reservoir exploration. • Direct observation of pressurized H 2 -rich reservoir in ophiolite (Romania). • Potential reservoirs and cap rocks in ophiolites. • H 2 leakage observed in the abandoned wells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of oil field development systems is largely determined by all possible methods of developing industrial oil reserves and the nature of production. The growth of production rates, high demand for petroleum products, require the complete extraction of oil from the subsoil. The main purpose of the study is to analyze the state of oil reserves production at the Severnaya Truva field by identifying problems that arise during the extraction of oil reserves in productive formations, increasing the intensity of oil production, analyzing the results of theoretical and experimental studies. In the exploration and exploration of oil and gas reserves, the productivity of the layer is important, since the physical environment of the layer changes with each molecule obtained during the extraction process, the longer the layer works, the more accurate the forecast of the remaining reserves. In the course of the study, the features of the geological structure of oil fields are studied, the influence on hydrodynamic processes in them is studied, work is being carried out to substantiate geological and professional criteria that determine effective development. The article examines the method of improving the methods of evaluating operational parameters and substantiating the design features of completion during the opening of capital-built deposits. It is envisaged to increase the production of oil reserves of capital-built fields by substantiating the technological parameters of well operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The methodology applied for the development of the research process is framed in a conceptual basis associated with the systemic approach of the territory and the landscape units as a tool for their multiscale planning; and the municipal territorial diagnosis that allowed evidencing the potentialities and land and use conflicts associated with the construction and operational- ization of the multipurpose reservoir Topocoro. As a result, a series of strategic guidelines for sustainable development is obtained that serves as the basis for the structuring of a sustainable land management model that allows to organize the municipality of Betulia in macro units and landscape units focused on configuring plot units on sites that do not mainly affect biotic and abiotic mass, contribute to economic reactivation and the improvement of the living conditions of local communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dams have negatively affected freshwater biodiversity throughout the world. These negative effects tend to be exacerbated for aquatic taxa with migratory life histories, and for taxa whose habitat is fundamentally altered by the formation of large reservoirs. Sauger (Sander candadensis; Percidae), large‐bodied migratory fishes native to North America, have seen population declines over much of the species' range, and dams are often implicated for their role in blocking access to spawning habitat and otherwise negatively affecting river habitat. Furthermore, hybridization appears to be more frequent between sauger and walleye in the reservoirs formed by large dams. In this study, we examine the role of dams in altering sauger population connectivity and facilitating hybridization with introduced walleye in Wyoming's Wind River and Bighorn River systems. We collected genomic data from individuals sampled over a large spatial scale and replicated sampling throughout the spawning season, with the intent to capture potential variation in hybridization prevalence or genomic divergence between sauger with different life histories. The timing of sampling was not related to hybridization prevalence or population divergence, suggesting limited genetic differences between sauger spawning in different time and places. Overall, there was limited hybridization detected, however, hybridization was most prevalent in Boysen Reservoir (a large impounded section of the Wind River). Dams in the lower Wind River and upper Bighorn River were associated with population divergence between sauger upstream and downstream of the dams, and demographic models suggest that this divergence has occurred in concordance with the construction of the dam. Sauger upstream of the dams exhibited substantially lower estimates of genetic diversity, which implies that disrupted connectivity between Wind River and Bighorn River sauger populations may already be causing negative demographic effects. This research points towards the importance of considering the evolutionary consequences of dams on fish populations in addition to the threats they pose to population persistence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The latent reservoir remains a major roadblock to curing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Currently available antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress active HIV replication, reduce viral loads to undetectable levels, and halt disease progression. However, antiretroviral drugs are unable to target cells that are latently infected with HIV, which can seed viral rebound if ART is stopped. Consequently, a major focus of the field is to study the latent viral reservoir and develop safe and effective methods to eliminate it. Here, we provide an overview of the major mechanisms governing the establishment and maintenance of HIV latency, the key challenges posed by latent reservoirs, small animal models utilized to study HIV latency, and contemporary cure approaches. We also discuss ongoing efforts to apply these approaches in combination, with the goal of achieving a safe, effective, and scalable cure for HIV that can be extended to the tens of millions of people with HIV worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the transmission of viruses from wildlife to humans has raised significant public health concerns, exemplified by the COVID-19 pandemic caused by the betacoronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Human activities play a substantial role in increasing the risk of zoonotic virus transmission from wildlife to humans. Rats and mice are prevalent in urban environments and may act as reservoirs for various pathogens. This study aimed to evaluate the presence of zoonotic viruses in wild rats and mice in both urban and rural areas, focusing on well-known zoonotic viruses such as betacoronavirus, hantavirus, arenavirus, kobuvirus, and monkeypox virus, along with other viruses occasionally detected in rats and mice, including rotavirus, norovirus, and astrovirus, which are known to infect humans at a high rate. A total of 128 animals were captured, including 70 brown rats (Rattus norvegicus), 45 black rats (Rattus rattus), and 13 house mice (Mus musculus), and feces, lung, and liver were collected. Among brown rats, one fecal sample tested positive for astrovirus RNA. Nucleotide sequencing revealed high sequence similarity to both human and rat astrovirus, suggesting co-presence of these viruses in the feces. Murine kobuvirus (MuKV) was detected in fecal samples from both black (n = 7) and brown (n = 6) rats, primarily from urban areas, as confirmed by sequence analysis. These findings highlight the importance of surveillance and research to understand and mitigate the risks associated with the potential transmission of pathogens by rodents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reservoir construction and operation profoundly alter the hydrological, hydrodynamic, and carbon and nitrogen cycling processes of rivers. However, current research still lacks a systematic understanding of the characteristics of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from reservoirs in arid/semi-arid regions. This study integrates existing monitoring data to discuss the characteristics of GHG emissions from reservoirs in the Yellow River Basin and illustrate the controlling factors and underlying mechanism of these processes. The results indicate that while CO2 emission flux from reservoirs is lower than that from river channels, the emission fluxes of CH4 and N2O are 1.9 times and 10 times those from rivers, respectively, indicating that the emission of GHG with stronger radiative effect is significantly enhanced in reservoirs. Compared to the reservoirs in humid climates (e.g., the Three Gorges Reservoir), reservoirs in the Yellow River Basin exhibit relatively lower emissions of CO2 and CH4 due to lower organic matter concentrations, but significantly higher N2O emissions due to higher nitrogen loads. Monte Carlo simulations for 237 reservoirs in the Yellow River Basin showed that total emission of the three GHGs is 3.05 Tg CO2-eq yr−1, accounting for 0.39% of the total emission from global reservoirs and lower than the area percentage of the basin (0.53%). This study has important implications on revealing the GHG emission characteristics and control mechanisms of reservoirs in arid/semi-arid regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The related issues with the heavy metals in the different water bodies have been widespread, causing concern around the world. In this study, the single-factor pollution index, Nemerow composite pollution index, health risk assessment (AHP model), multivariate statistical analysis, including correlation analysis, and principal component analysis were conducted to depict the pollution appraisal, the health risk assessment, and the source apportionment of the reservoirs in Northern Anhui Province, China. The results showed that the mean concentration order was as follows: Mn>Zn>As>Ni>Cr> Cu>Co>Cd. The coefficient of variation of Cr and Mn indicated the high degree of anthropogenic activities, and the remaining heavy metals implied that they were relatively stable. The single factor pollution index and Nemerow’s pollution index consistently showed that only sampling site R06 was slightly polluted, and the remaining 13 sampling points were free-pollution. The average annual health risk value of chemical carcinogens in the human body is much higher than that of chemical non-carcinogens, and children are more likely to be threatened by heavy metals than adults. Under the route of drinking water and skin contact, the maximum annual health risk caused by Cr exceeds the maximum acceptable risk level 1x10-4 issued by USEPA. The correlation analysis suggested that the correlation coefficients between Mn-Co, Co-Ni, As-Cd, and Cr-Ni revealed a significant positive correlation. When combined with the principal component analysis, the three principal components may be related to the discharge of domestic wastewater, automobile exhaust emissions, and pesticides and fertilizers, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Left atrium is not a simple passive transport chamber which transfers blood from the pulmonary circulation to the left ventricle. Left atrium has conduit, reservoir and pump functions and multiple variables have been developed to evaluate those functions. Aim of the study: It is comparison of LAFI to traditional echo parameters of Left atrium function in atrial fibrillation and diastolic dysfunction. Methods: This Prospective cross sectional study was conducted among the patients attending the Cardiology OPD with Atrial fibrillation and Diastolic dysfunction in Tertiary care centre, Chennai .The study was done for a period from Jan 2022 to Jan 2023.The study participants fulfilling the inclusion and the exclusion criteria were included in the study throughout the study period. The final attained sample is 75. After obtaining the Institutional Ethical Committee clearance, the study was started after obtaining patients informed consent. Baseline details of study participants like name, age, sex, residence. Anthropometric measurement like height and weight will be taken.Body mass index will be calculated. Echocardiography investigation will be done. After collecting the data it was entered in MS Excel Windows 10.Statistical analysis was done in SPSS 23..P value of <0.005 is considered to be statistically significant. Results: Age, sex, height, weight,Body mass index and Body surface are was found to be not statistically significant between the groups. There is a very weak correlation between LAVI & LAFI in atrial fibrillation group (r= 0.2). There is a strong correlation between A cm/s and LAFI, There is a strong correlation between AVTI and LAFI (r= 0.89). when LAFI <24.5 is set as cut off value, LAFI as a parameter to diagnose left atrial dysfunction has 100% sensitivity, 56%specificity, 53% positive predictive value, 100% negative predictive value. Conclusion: LAFI is low in chronic AF and Diastolic Dysfunction patients in our study. LAFI has high sensitivity and negative predictive value. LAFI is a rhythm independent Left atrium function marker. Thereby we conclude that LAFI is a comprehensive marker of left atrial structural and functional assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isolation and limited migration among populations and differences in the environments they inhabit set up conditions for population differentiation of life‐history traits, even across a regional spatial scale, such as a statewide landscape of lakes and reservoirs. Our objective was to understand how largemouth bass (Micropterus nigricans) life histories differ across a regional spatial scale (Ohio, USA) and whether environmental differences are influencing this variation. To address this, we (1) described spatial variation in largemouth bass life‐history traits, with a specific interest in potential correlations between early‐life growth and later‐life traits and (2) tested whether life‐history traits can be predicted by reservoir characteristics. We found two groups of correlated population traits: the inverse relationship of early‐life growth rate with population density and asymptotic length and the positive relationship between adult size and asymptotic length. Early‐life growth had a positive relationship (and population density and asymptotic length had a negative relationship) with littoral habitat availability and other environmental conditions expected to enhance early growth. Despite the strong influence of reservoir characteristics on life‐history traits in our analysis, the most plausible model could not give precise predictions of these life‐history traits, suggesting that the availability of data on other aspects of the populations and environments may improve our ability to understand life‐history differences. Overall, our results suggest that, even among recently separated populations, we should expect differences in growth patterns and that we cannot understand drivers of these differences without considering possible correlations in growth patterns across the lifespan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the increasing world population and environmental considerations, there has been a tremendous interest in alternative energy sources. Hydrogen plays a major role as an energy carrier due to its environmentally benign nature. The combustion of hydrogen releases water vapor while it also has a vast industrial application in aerospace, pharmaceutical, and metallurgical industries. Although promising, hydrogen faces storage challenges. Underground hydrogen storage (UHS) presents a promising method of safely storing hydrogen. The selection of the appropriate cushion gas for UHS is a critical aspect of ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the storage system. Cushion gas plays a pivotal role in maintaining the necessary pressure within the storage reservoir, thereby enabling consistent injection and withdrawal rates of hydrogen. One of the key functions of the cushion gas is to act as a buffer, ensuring that the storage pressure remains within the desired range despite fluctuations in hydrogen demand or supply. This is achieved by alternately expanding and compressing the cushion gas during the injection and withdrawal cycles, thereby effectively regulating the overall pressure dynamics within the storage facility. Furthermore, the choice of cushion gas can have significant implications on the performance and long-term stability of the UHS system. Factors such as compatibility with hydrogen, cost-effectiveness, availability, and environmental impact must be carefully considered when selecting the most suitable cushion gas. The present study provides a comprehensive review of different types of cushion gases commonly used in UHS, including nitrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide. By examining the advantages, limitations, and practical considerations associated with each option, the study aims to offer valuable insights into optimizing the performance and reliability of UHS systems. Ultimately, the successful implementation of UHS hinges not only on technological innovation but also on strategic decisions regarding cushion gas selection and management. By addressing these challenges proactively, stakeholders can unlock the full potential of hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy carrier, thereby contributing to the global transition towards a low-carbon future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large number of laboratory investigations related to the permeability have been conducted on the sliding zones. Yet little attention has been paid to the particular sliding zones of the slide-prone Badong Formation. Here, we experimentally investigate the permeability nature and the mechanism of seepage in the viscous sliding zone of the Huangtupo Landslide. Saturated seepage tests have been performed first with consideration of six dry densities and thirteen hydraulic gradients, in conjunction with the mercury intrusion porosimetry test and scanning electron microscopy test for the microstructure analysis after seepage. The results show that seepage in the sliding zone soil does not follow Darcy's Law, since there is a threshold hydraulic gradient (i0) below which no flow is observed and a critical hydraulic gradient (icr) over which the hydraulic conductivity (K) tends to be stable. The percentage of bound water could be responsible for the occurrence of i0 and icr. Furthermore, pore size distributions (PSD) less than 0.6 µm and between 10 and 90 µm exhibit positive and negative correlations with the i0, respectively, indicating that the i0 is related to the PSD. The mechanism accounting for this result is that pore water pressure forces fine clay particles into the surrounding large pores and converts arranged particles to discretely distributed ones, thereby weakening the connectivity of pores. The seepages in the sliding zones behave differently from that in the sliding mass and sliding bed in response to the permeability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: In urban environments, dogs serve as the primary reservoir for visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Rapidly diagnosing canine VL through tests enables early treatment and a favorable prognosis. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of the SensPERT® Leishmania test kit (Dechra®), Alere® Leishmaniasis Ac test kit, and the rapid test dual path platform (TR-DPP®) Bio-Manguinhos in detecting VL. Materials and Methods: 30 serum samples from reactive VL dogs and 30 serum samples from healthy dogs were employed for assessing the sensitivity and specificity variation between SensPERT® Leishmania test kit, Alere® Leishmaniasis Ac test kit, and rapid test dual platform - TR-DPP®. Results: The SensPERT® Leishmania test outperformed Alere® and TR-DPP® in terms of sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and demonstrated near-perfect concordance with Alere® and substantial concurrence with TR-DPP®. Conclusion: The SensPERT® Leishmania rapid test proved to be a promising test in the detection of VL in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water has become a sacred asset in Islam, which reguires cleansing the soul and body. Both in the werses of our holy book, the Holy Quran, and in the Probhet Muhammad. There are important words on this subjects in the hadiths of the probhet. The fact that water is given great importance has led to the idea that providing water to the society is one of the most iportant in Turkish-Islamic architecture. In this study we have prepared, baldachin planned fountains belonging to mosgues located in Tokat city center are discused. During the field investigation, examples of fountains in question were found in Hatuniye Mosque, Ali Paşa Mosque, Takyeciler Mosque and Alaca Mescit Mosque. Although there are many studies in the literatüre about these mosques, their fountains have not been mentioned except for a few sentences. Based on this determination, the study was written in order to ezamine the fountains that are the subject of the study in detail in terms of plan, architecture, decoration and material-technical features and determine thair place within th fountain architecture. Although the fountains were built at a later date than the mosques thay are located in, they both provided integrity with the mosques with their features and managed to reflect the artistic styles of the period in which they were built to a certain extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use and the share of water applied from several irrigation water sources correlate with the irrigation practices in use by the peers of Arkansan farmers. From a sample of producers from an irrigation survey in Arkansas, a bivariate sample selection model accounts for how peer use of numerous irrigation practices affects the use and the share of irrigation that comes from a water source. The bivariate sample selection model controls for the bias in the statistical estimates that occur because producers who volunteer for an irrigation survey are likely to know about and use irrigation more than the population. We find that peer influence operates through multiple irrigation practices, and peer influence through an irrigation practice depends on an irrigator's location and current farm practices. For example, peer use of a tail‐water recovery system and peer use of alternate wetting and drying both increase the probability of surface water use alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by different species of Leishmania is transmitted by Phlebotominae sandflies. This disease remains a public health concern in Iran. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine Leishmania infection in sandflies and reservoir rodents in six rural regions of Nahavand, located in western Iran. From May to October 2022, sandflies and rodents were collected and identified at the species level. Additionally, rodents’ skin lesions and earlobe specimens were collected separately for microscopic and molecular examination. All specimens were tested for Leishmania DNA by PCRs targeting the parasite’s ITS-2 and 18S rRNA gene and positive were Sanger sequenced. A total of 3396 sandflies belonging to seven subgenera and 11 species, i.e., Phlebotomus papatasi (42.7%), P. major (20.6%), P. mascitti (0.3%), P. neglectus (0.2%), P. alexandri (0.2%), P. turanicus (0.3%), Sergentomyia murgabiensis (18.1%), S. dentata (10.5%), S. theodori (5.8%), S. antennata (1.1%), and S. pawlowski (0.1%) were identified. Based on the species population, 29 pools of sandflies were examined for the presence of Leishmania DNA using conventional PCR (cPCR), and individual DNAs were tested when positive. Leishmania major DNA was detected in two P. papatasi and Leishmania sp. in one P. major individual sandfly. This is the first report of Leishmania infection in sandflies from Hamadan province. The captured rodents (n = 61) belonged to four families and seven species, i.e., Arvicola amphibius (37.7%), Mus musculus (29.5%), Microtus socialis (13.1%), Apodemus sylvaticus (11.5%), Talpa davidiana (4.9%), Apodemus witherbyi (1.6%), and Rattus norvegicus (1.6%). Microscopic and molecular examinations of the rodent lesions and earlobes scored negative results. The presence of Leishmania in the Phlebotominae sandflies in Nahavand indicates a potential threat to humans and animals in the region. Regular monitoring and examination of the sandflies’ population and timely diagnosis and treatment of new patients are strongly recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) are an invasive bivalve that has spread across much of the central and eastern U.S. since their initial introduction to North America. Eradication efforts have largely relied on chemical control methods, which can be costly and not always effective. In 2014, a highly localized introduction of zebra mussels was discovered in the 35.6 km2 Lake Waco in Central Texas, USA. After weighing treatment options, a decision was made to attempt eradication using a novel gas impermeable benthic barrier approach previously only used for bivalves to successfully suppress Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea) populations. A polyvinyl chloride benthic barrier was installed to cover an area of approximately 3,900 m2 of the shoreline and lake bottom in the littoral zone and left in place for nearly five months with frequent monitoring and periodic maintenance. Following barrier removal, environmental DNA, plankton sampling for larvae, and shoreline/substrate surveys for settled mussels were implemented to monitor eradication effort success. Although two live mussels were found immediately after barrier removal indicating mortality was not 100%, there were no further detections of zebra mussels suggesting an insufficient number remained posttreatment to develop a population. Following over five years with no detections, the zebra mussel population was declared to be eradicated from the lake in early 2021. This is the first demonstrated use of a benthic barrier approach to successfully eradicate a dreissenid mussel introduction. The use of this technique was facilitated by early detection, the localized nature of the introduction, cooperation in closing the boat ramp in the affected area, the gently sloping bathymetry of the lake's littoral zone, and partnership efforts and contributions by multiple agencies and other entities. Lake Waco remains at risk for future zebra mussel re-introduction and early detection monitoring is ongoing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent droughts have severely threatened water security in many regions worldwide. Reservoirs, designed to combat droughts and secure water supply partially, are reported failing to fill up to the total capacity due to severe droughts. How bad is climate affecting reservoir filling up on a global scale? This issue has not been studied. We present a big picture of reservoirs in crisis using satellite altimetry. Thanks to the unique characteristics of CryoSat‐2, 525 reservoirs worldwide were investigated during 2010–2022. Results show that most reservoirs (93%) are found not fully filled up at least once. About 21% of reservoirs, which are mainly located in the Southern Hemisphere, show a significant decline in water levels. Moreover, about 20% of reservoirs with larger level fluctuations (>3 m) are located in less developed economies, indicating informed operation rules are needed. Further analyses indicate reservoirs are largely affected by extreme climate events, such as ENSO. Plain Language Summary: A reservoir is an artificial lake where water is collected and stored for various purposes, such as flood control, irrigation, hydropower generation, industrial use, etc. In a changing climate, drought events can cause a decline in the natural flow of streams and rivers to the reservoirs. Consequently, many of the functions provided by the reservoir might be halted if the drought continues, just like the cases of Lake Powell and Lake Mead. The past decade saw several record‐breaking global annual temperatures. How have global reservoirs been affected in terms of the filling up? Leveraging more than a decade of CryoSat‐2 altimetry observations, we provided a global picture of this issue. We found that 93% of studied reservoirs have not been fully filled up at least once during 2010–2022. Our analyses revealed that droughts are the most probable culprits. About 86% of the 398 reservoirs with accessible SPEI data exhibited significant susceptibility to drought, while 43% of the 525 reservoirs demonstrated notable sensitivity to ENSO events. These findings have important implications for future reservoir operations to cope with more intensive drought events. It also means the benefits and costs of both existing and planned reservoirs need to be re‐assessed to take adaptation strategies. Key Points: Water levels of reservoirs in the southern hemisphere show a declining trendAbout 93% of the 525 studied reservoirs have not been fully filled up at least once in the past 12 yearsLess developed economies need to develop informed reservoir operation rules to cope with climate change [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Storing hydrogen gas in natural gas storage sites could help provide the large-scale energy storage required to decarbonize global energy supply. Here, we determine that active natural gas storage sites in the United States (U.S.) can store 312 TWh of hydrogen working gas, which is most of the hydrogen storage energy required for a 100% renewable energy grid in the country. We also provide the first assessment of the geologic reservoir quality for hydrogen and static storage capacity of inactive natural gas storage sites in the U.S. Our analysis evaluates each site for conversion to hydrogen storage based on their reservoir properties, and we find that these sites can store 3.9 TWh of hydrogen working gas. We conclude that these inactive sites provide a favorable route to commence seasonal hydrogen storage, but larger storage volumes, such as those provided by active sites, will be required in the future. • Storing hydrogen gas in natural gas storage sites can provide seasonal energy storage. • Active natural gas storage sites could store 312 TWh of hydrogen working gas. • Inactive natural gas storage sites could store 3.9 TWh of hydrogen working gas. • Active sites could store most of the hydrogen gas needed in a future electrical grid. • Inactive sites with good reservoir quality are strong candidate hydrogen storage sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Natural killer (NK) cells are dysfunctional in chronic human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection as they are not able to clear virus. We hypothesized that an infusion of NK cells, supported by interleukin 2 (IL-2) or IL-15, could decrease virus-producing cells in the lymphatic tissues. Methods We conducted a phase 1 pilot study in 6 persons with HIV (PWH), where a single infusion of haploidentical related donor NK cells was given plus either IL-2 or N-803 (an IL-15 superagonist). Results The approach was well tolerated with no unexpected adverse events. We did not pretreat recipients with cyclophosphamide or fludarabine to "make immunologic space," reasoning that PWH on stable antiretroviral treatment remain T-cell depleted in lymphatic tissues. We found donor cells remained detectable in blood for up to 8 days (similar to what is seen in cancer pretreatment with lymphodepleting chemotherapy) and in the lymph nodes and rectum up to 28 days. There was a moderate decrease in the frequency of viral RNA-positive cells in lymph nodes. Conclusions There was a moderate decrease in HIV-producing cells in lymph nodes. Further studies are warranted to determine the impact of healthy NK cells on HIV reservoirs and if restoring NK-cell function could be part of an HIV cure strategy. Clinical Trials Registration. NCT03346499 and NCT03899480. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Locating petroleum-productive wells using informed geological data, a conventional means, has proven to be tedious and undesirable by reservoir engineers. The former numerical simulator required a lengthy trial-and-error process to manipulate the variables and uncertainties that lie on the reservoir to determine the best placement of the well. Hence, this paper examines the use of a global genetic algorithm (GA) to optimize the placement of wells in complex reservoirs, rather than relying on gradient-based (GB) methods. This is because GB approaches are influenced by the solution's surface gradient and may only reach local optima, as opposed to global optima. Complex reservoirs have rough surfaces with high uncertainties, which hinders the traditional gradient-based method from converging to global optima. The explicit focus of this study was to examine the impact of various initial well placement distributions, the number of random solution sizes and the crossover rate on cumulative oil production, the optimization of the synthetic reservoir model created by CMG Builder, CMOST, and IMEX indicated that using a greater number of random solutions led to an increase in cumulative oil production. Despite the successful optimization, more generations are required to reach the optimal solution, while the application of GA on our synthetic model has proven efficient for well placement; however, different optimization algorithms such as the improved particle swarm (PSO) and grey wolf optimization (GWO) algorithms could be used to redefine well-placement optimization in CMG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

River impoundment is usually accompanied with consequences of alteration in the hydrological system and change in the biodiversity composition of the ecosystem. This study investigated the impact of the dams built on Challawa (that is, Challawa George-Dam) and Kano (that is, Tiga Dam) on the fish biodiversity of the reservoir and below-dam sections of the two rivers. Fish sampling was done using long lines, Malian traps, cast and gill nets from stations on the reservoir and below-dam sections of the rivers. Ten fish species were identified from the reservoir and the below-dam sections of Challawa River belonging to nine families and four orders. Fish communities of the reservoir and below-dam sections of Kano River consisted of 28 species belonging to 12 families and 7 orders. Results of the Shannon diversity index (H' ) indicated that the two reservoirs have relatively higher fish species diversity measures (that is, Challawa=1.948 & Kano=2.294) than the below-dam parts (that is, Challawa=1.833 & Kano=2.247) of their respective rivers. Non-metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) analysis produced two-dimensional maps with stress values of 0.0554 and 0.0537, an indication that the model provided good representation of the original data in reduced-dimensional space. The ordination map indicated wide dissimilarities between fish communities of the impounded and below-dam sections. Furthermore, a one-way analysis of similarity indicated significant difference (P=0.0001) and high dissimilarities (R=0.643) between fish communities in the two sections of Challawa River and also in Kano River (P=0.001, R=0.929). Analysis of Similarity Percentage indicated 74.45% of the dissmilarities between fish communities in the two sections were cummulatively contributed by four species in Challawa River and 72.18% by five species in Kano River. The distinct differences in fish abundance and richness between the two sections is ascribed to increased ecosytem productivity often associated with the inundated portion of dammed river. It is recommended that more water flow across the dams should be encouraged as a mitigating measure to boost basin sizes of the rivers at the below-dam sections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gharial Gavialis gangeticus is a Critically Endangered crocodilian endemic to the Indian subcontinent. Habitat modification by river damming and water extraction has caused a severe decline in its population. The status of the gharial is known within protected areas, but there have been few surveys for this species in unprotected areas. In Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, a breeding gharial population in Girijapuri Barrage Reservoir has low recruitment, and it has been hypothesized that yearlings disperse downstream into the unprotected Ghaghara River when the barrage gates are opened. We surveyed a 100-km stretch of the Ghaghara River from the Girijapuri Barrage to Chahlari Ghat, observing a total of 84 gharials, including a high proportion of juveniles. A survey in 2021 from Chahlari Ghat to Ayodhya observed 174 gharials, giving a combined total of 258 gharials in a 219-km stretch of the Ghaghara River for the two surveys. Together, these findings confirm the presence of a significant population of gharials in the Ghaghara River. We recommend the adoption of an integrated approach, involving government agencies and local communities along the river, to conserve the protected Girwa–Kaudiyala Rivers and the unprotected Ghaghara River for gharial conservation and recovery. Such a programme will need to tackle the threats facing the gharial and establish baseline data and long-term monitoring protocols for freshwater species conservation in this river system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the bacteriological quality of raw, treated, and distributed water from Ede-Erinle and Opa reservoirs in Osun State, Nigeria. This was to determine the potability of water from these waterwork stations. Eighteen sampling points were established across the two reservoir networks for this study. Samples were collected bi-monthly for two annual cycles. Serial dilution and pour plate methods were employed for the enumeration of bacterial load. Total heterotrophic bacteria count (THBC) and total coliform bacteria count (TCBC) were enumerated on nutrient and MacConkey agar at 37 °C, respectively. Bacterial isolates were characterized using biochemical identification methods with reference to Bergey’s Manual of Determinative Bacteriology. Bacterial isolates and biofilm formation were further identified molecularly through the PCR method using specific universal primers. Mean values of THBC and TCBC in distributed water from Ede-Erinle (9.61 × 104 ± 1.50 × 104 CFU/mL; 69.56 ± 26.81 CFU/mL) and Opa waterworks (9.58 × 104 ± 2.55 × 104 CFU/mL; 142.94 ± 44.41 CFU/mL) exceeded permissible limits for drinking water. Paenibacillus lautus, Bacillus pseudomycoides, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Pseudomonas stutzeri showed biofilm-forming capacity. The study concluded that the presence of coliforms and biofilm-forming bacteria in distributed water implies that the water is unfit for consumption without further treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbonate rocks are the most impressive petroleum reservoirs in the world, constrained by depositional and diagenetic processes. With Paleocene Lockhart Limestone (PLL) strata, the Hazara Basin in northwest Pakistan is a growing petroleum basin. It is crucial to evaluate how PLL depositional and diagenetic processes affect reservoir potential. A combination of field observations, petrographic analysis, and Xрray fluorescence is applied to achieve the desired goals. PLL consists mainly of densely fossiliferous nodular limestone that exhibits three main facie associations: low-energy lagoon facies represented by abundant green algae and micritic matrix, foraminifera-rich inner ramp with low-energy conditions, and shallow marine middle ramp with restricted water circulation and abundant non-skeletal allochems. PLL is interpreted to be formed in middle-inner ramp to lagoon depositional setting representing type 3 transgressive-regressive systems tract. The geochemical results show that CaCO3 range (82.20–94.86 wt %) is dominant than other element oxides indicating that calcareous influx is more, which inhibits the clastic rocks influence in the deposition and the influence of magnesium enrichment process is minimal, which ultimately supports the formation of ramp setting. The diagenetic features include compaction, micritization, stylolites, dissolution, cementation, dolomitization, fractures, and recrystallization representing marine, marine-meteoric mixing, and burial diagenetic environments. Dissolution and fracturing can improve the net porosity of the formation, making it a better reservoir for petroleum exploration. PLL is correlated with stratigraphic equivalents involving the Jahrum Formation (Iran) and Zongpu Formation (China) for better understanding the reservoir properties of other carbonate petroleum fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The upper shallow marine sandstone reservoirs of the Barremian-to-Valanginian formation are the most porous and permeable sandstone reservoirs in the Bredasdorp Basin and an important target for oil and gas exploration. There is a paucity of information on the reservoir characterization and effect of diagenetic mineral studies focusing on the upper shallow marine sandstone reservoirs in the central Bredasdorp Basin; thus, there is a need to investigate the effect of diagenetic minerals and to characterize these reservoirs due to their high porosity and permeability. Datasets, including a suite of geophysical wireline logs, routine core analysis, geological well completion reports, description reports, and core samples, were utilized. A total of 642 core porosity measures, core water saturation, and core permeability data were used for calibration with the log-derived parameters, ranging in depth from 3615 m to 4259 m. Rock samples were prepared for diagenetic mineral analyses, such as thin sections and Scanning electron microscopy, for each well to investigate the presence of diagenetic minerals in the selected reservoir units. The petrophysical analyses showed the results of porosity, volume of clay, water saturation, and permeability, ranging from 9% to 27%, 8.6% to 19.8%, 18.9% to 30.4%, and 0.096 mD to 151.8 mD, respectively, indicating a poor-to-good reservoir quality. Mineralogical analyses revealed that micrite calcite, quartz cement, quartz overgrowth, and authigenic pore-filling and grain-coating clay minerals (illite–smectite and illite) negatively affected intergranular porosity. Porosity-versus-permeability cross plot showed good correlation of 0.86 for ZN1 and 0.83 for ZN3 reservoirs, suggesting that although porosity is the main drive of permeability, there were other geological factors at play, such as diagenetic minerals and compaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chagas disease (CD) is a vector-borne Neglected Zoonotic Disease (NZD) caused by a flagellate protozoan, Trypanosoma cruzi, that affects various mammalian species across America, including humans and domestic animals. However, due to an increase in population movements and new routes of transmission, T. cruzi infection is presently considered a worldwide health concern, no longer restricted to endemic countries. Dogs play a major role in the domestic cycle by acting very efficiently as reservoirs and allowing the perpetuation of parasite transmission in endemic areas. Despite the significant progress made in recent years, still there is no vaccine against human and animal disease, there are few drugs available for the treatment of human CD, and there is no standard protocol for the treatment of canine CD. In this review, we highlight human and canine Chagas Disease in its different dimensions and interconnections. Dogs, which are considered to be the most important peridomestic reservoir and sentinel for the transmission of T. cruzi infection in a community, develop CD that is clinically similar to human CD. Therefore, an integrative approach, based on the One Health concept, bringing together the advances in genomics, immunology, and epidemiology can lead to the effective development of vaccines, new treatments, and innovative control strategies to tackle CD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring disease among wildlife is critical to preserving health in both domestic animals and wildlife, and it becomes much more critical when the diseases cause significant economic damage to the livestock industry or threaten public health. Given the continuous increase in populations and its role as a reservoir for several infections, wild boar (Sus scrofa) requires special attention regarding disease surveillance and monitoring. In this study, we investigated the molecular prevalence of selected pathogens in the wild boar population of Campania, southern Italy. The prevalence of pathogens causing reproductive problems in pigs (Sus domesticus), including porcine parvovirus (PPV), porcine circovirus types 2 and 3 (PCV-2 and PCV-3), pseudorabies virus (PRV), Coxiella burnetii, and Brucella suis, was evaluated by testing the reproductive organs collected from 63 wild boars with polymerase chain reaction. The most common pathogens were PPV (44.4%) and two porcine circoviruses (14.3%). PRV and C. burnetii, on the other hand, showed a significantly lower prevalence (1.6%). No reproductive organs tested were positive for B. suis. Risk factor analysis revealed a correlation between age and PCV-2 positivity, with animals less than 12 months old having significantly higher prevalence rates. Our findings suggest that wild boars hunted in the Campania region harbour several infections potentially transmissible to other mammals' reproductive tracts. Furthermore, our results emphasized the importance of strict adherence to biosecurity protocols on domestic swine farms, especially on free-range farms, to avoid interactions between domestic and wild animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is still one of the most widespread and harmful infectious diseases in the world. The presence of reservoirs housing the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) represents a significant impediment to the development of clinically applicable treatments on a large scale. The viral load in the blood can be effectively reduced to undetectable levels through antiretroviral therapy (ART), and a higher concentration of HIV is sequestered in various tissues throughout the body, forming the tissue reservoir - the source of viremia after interruption treatment. We take the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) as a guideline for this review. In June 2023, we used the Pubmed, Embase, and Scopus databases to search the relevant literature published in the last decade. Here we review the current strategies and treatments for eliminating the HIV tissue reservoirs: early and intensive therapy, gene therapy (including ribozyme, RNA interference, RNA aptamer, zinc finger enzyme, transcriptional activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/associated nuclease 9 (CRISPR/Cas9)), 'Shock and Kill', 'Block and lock', immunotherapy (including therapeutic vaccines, broadly neutralising antibodies (bNAbs), chimeric antigen receptor T-cell immunotherapy (CAR-T)), and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The existence of an HIV reservoir is the main obstacle to the complete cure of AIDS. Choosing the appropriate strategy to deplete the HIV reservoir and achieve a functional cure for AIDS is the focus and difficulty of current research. So far, there has been a lot of research and progress in reducing the HIV reservoir, but in general, the current research is still very preliminary. Much research is still needed to properly assess the reliability, effectiveness, and necessity of these strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eel Management Plans demand European silver eel (Anguilla anguilla) escapement to the sea of at least 40% of that expected historically in the absence of human impacts. Landlocked lentic waterbodies, such as drinking water reservoirs, host substantial numbers of eel, which could represent a significant contribution to catchment-based conservation targets. To optimize netting strategies for eel management policies, information on their aggregation behaviour is currently needed but lacking. We performed a fine-scale acoustic tracking study to monitor the movements of 86 European eel in a UK reservoir. Social network sampling and sensitivity analyses were used to assess whether eel aggregate at scales relevant for current capture techniques. European eel were found to aggregate at spatial and temporal scales of 50 m and 2 days, respectively, which complements current capture methodologies and recommendations. Aggregations were not driven by fixed resources, indicating that other factors, such as sociality, may drive aggregation behaviour. Results also show that current netting practices could be optimized by increasing netting lengths from 50 to 80 m. In addition to aiding conservation and management protocols, these results provide an ecological foundation for exploring the role of social behaviour in this Critically Endangered species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sedimentation determines how optimal a reservoir functions throughout its design life. The Sempor Reservoir in Central Java, Indonesia, will be 45 years old in 2023. At least 15 million m3 of particles have been sedimented in the reservoir for >30 years, reducing its function as an irrigation water source to only 60%. Therefore, assessing its performance in providing irrigation water and generating hydropower electricity is essential, given that its design life ends in 2028. This study was conducted to analyse the sedimentation and estimate the useful life of the Sempor Reservoir based on the erosion potential in its catchment area. The potential sedimentation rate was formulated from erosion potential assessed using the universal soil loss equation (USLE) model, sediment delivery ratio (SDR) and trap efficiency (TE). By contrast, the actual sedimentation rate was determined from changes in the dead storage capacity from 2013 to 2023. The interpolation performance evaluation of the bathymetric survey results was tested using the coefficient of determination (R2), Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) which resulted in values of 0.917; 0.87; and 13.03%, respectively. The results show that the catchment area had an erosion potential of 3,405,353.86 t·a-1, resulting in a potential sedimentation rate of 309,106.63 m3·a-1. The calculated actual sedimentation rate was 33,903.28 m3·a-1. Therefore, the useful life of the Sempor Reservoir was estimated to end in 0.5 years and 4.59 years based on the potential and actual sedimentation rates, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]