Background/Objectives: Contemporary food systems face dual imperatives of ensuring nutritional adequacy while minimizing environmental resource consumption, yet conventional dietary assessment methodologies inadequately integrate these competing objectives. This simulation-based proof-of-concept study developed an artificial intelligence-driven computational framework synthesizing nutritional evaluation, environmental footprint quantification, and economic accessibility assessment. Methods: The analytical architecture integrated random forest classification, dimensionality reduction, and scenario-based optimization across a simulated population cohort of 1500 individuals. Food composition data encompassed 55 representative foods across eight categories linked with greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and price parameters. Four dietary patterns (Mediterranean, Western, Plant-based, Mixed) were characterized across nutrient adequacy, greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and economic cost. Results: Random forest classification achieved 39.1% accuracy, with cost, greenhouse gas emissions, and water consumption emerging as the most discriminating features. Dietary patterns exhibited convergent macronutrient profiles (protein 108.8–112.8 g per day, 4% variation) despite categorical distinctions, while calcium inadequacy pervaded all patterns (867–927.5 mg per day, 7–13% below requirements). Environmental footprints demonstrated limited differentiation (greenhouse gas 3.73–3.96 kg CO2e per day, 6% range). Bootstrap resampling (n = 1000) confirmed narrow confidence intervals, with NHANES validation revealing substantial energy intake deviations (38–58% above observed means) attributable to adequacy-prioritized design rather than observed consumption patterns. Scenario modeling identified seasonally flexible dietary configurations maintaining micronutrient and protein adequacy while reducing water use to 87% of baseline at modest cost increases. Conclusions: This framework establishes a validated computational infrastructure for integrated dietary assessment benchmarked against sustainability thresholds and epidemiological reference data, demonstrating the feasibility of AI-driven evaluation of dietary patterns across nutritional, environmental, and economic dimensions.

Is selenate a diabetogenic form of selenium? Evidence from a natural experiment in Northern Italy.

Introduction Understanding climate change impacts on water footprints (WFs) is crucial for sustainable soybean production. Methods We utilized previously calibrated AquaCrop model to assess baseline (1981–2010) and future climate change impacts on soybean WFs under Shared Socio-economic Pathways (SSPs) emission scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5) in rainfed and irrigated systems. Results The WF rainfed varied across locations in the baseline period, with Cesa having the highest values and Ljubljana the lowest. Blue WF and WF irrigated increased as the readily available water (RAW) depletion threshold for irrigation decreased, with no significant differences in WF irrigated across irrigation strategies. Future climate change showed varying effects on WF rainfed and WF irrigated . Under SSP1-2.6 and SSP5- 8.5, WF rainfed is projected to increase from mid (2061–2080) to far future (2081– 2100). Whereas, a decrease is projected from near (2041–2060) to far future under SSP2-4.5. WF irrigated is expected to decrease in Castelfranco and Cesa but to increase in Ljubljana. Under SSP5-8.5, WF irrigated increased from near to far future. Whereas, SSP2-4.5 showed a decline, except in Ljubljana from near to mid-future. Under SSP1-2.6, WF irrigated decreased from near to mid-future but increased from mid to far future. Blue WF followed similar patterns to these projections. Irrigation strategies have minimal effects on consumptive WFs but significantly influence blue water use and yield. Discussion Future climate change will differentially impact rainfed and irrigated soybean WFs, emphasizing the need for targeted irrigation water management strategies. The findings are essential to making informed decisions for sustainable soybean production in the study areas.

Haemodialysis (HD) and online haemodiafiltration (OLHDF) are the main in-centre treatments for kidney failure. Both rely on high water and energy use and produce substantial greenhouse gas emissions. OLHDF provides superior solute clearance and improved survival compared with high-flux HD, but its environmental burden remains less defined. Clarifying these differences supports evidence-based and sustainable treatment decisions. A process-based life cycle assessment (LCA) was performed at the Nephrology, Dialysis and Kidney Transplant Unit, AOU Policlinico di Modena, Italy, in 2024, following ISO 14040 and 14,044 standards. The functional unit was one patient year of treatment, equal to 156 sessions. System boundaries included procurement, water treatment, session operations, travel and waste management. Modelling used OpenLCA with Ecoinvent 3.11 and the Italian electricity grid factor of 0.25kg CO2 per kWh. Scenarios assessed HD-only, OLHDF-only and the real-world Modena treatment mix. Sensitivity analysis varied the share of OLHDF, session frequency, grid intensity and reverse-osmosis (RO) recovery rate and included a reduced-flow OLHDF prescription. The annual footprint was 4469kg CO2-eq, 60,290MJ and 1364 m3 world-eq deprived water per patient year. HD generated 4427kg CO2-eq and OLHDF 4548kg CO2-eq, reflecting slightly higher electricity and water consumption and greater plastic use in OLHDF. Travel contributed 71% of total emissions and procurement 21%. Sensitivity analysis showed changes in RO efficiency and electricity mix had stronger effects than treatment type. HD and OLHDF have comparable environmental profiles. Clinical outcomes should drive modality choice, while sustainability gains depend on improving transport, water recovery, energy management and renewable integration.

Reactive nitrogen (N) deposition has increased in southern China, potentially influencing forest carbon and water exchange processes. Cunninghamia lanceolata dominates as the most extensively planted and economically fast-growing timber species in subtropical China, but how C. lanceolata would respond to increased N deposition remains incompletely understood. In this study, we analyzed the responses of water utilization to increased N deposition at a manipulative experiment with N addition in a C. lanceolata plantation. Four treatments were established including N addition of 25 kg ha-1 yr-1 (N1; low concentration), 50 kg ha-1 yr-1 (N2; medium concentration), 100 kg ha-1 yr-1 (N3; high concentration) applied as NH4Cl solution, and control treatment (CK). Results showed that N3 treatment significantly increased leaf N content. N3 treatment enhanced intrinsic water use efficiency as evidenced by leaf carbon isotope composition (δ13C), and leaf-level stomatal conductance as indicated by leaf oxygen isotopic composition (δ18O). Similarly, N3 treatment enhanced sap flux density (Js) and canopy stomatal conductance (Gc) of C. lanceolata during growing season. However, N1 and N2 treatments exerted minimal impacts on Js and Gc, suggesting there existed a dose-response relationship between external N input amount and Js (or Gc). Moreover, high-level N addition enhanced the sensitivity of Js and Gc to vapor pressure deficit and photosynthetically active radiation. Overall, C. lanceolata are more likely to enhance resource acquisition ability, and exhibit higher water consumption under future scenarios of increased nitrogen deposition.

Abstract The mining sector in South America has demonstrated growing interest in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Given the sector’s significant economic role, pressing sustainability challenges, and the approaching 2030 deadline, it is urgent to assess its progress toward the SDGs and to realign short-term actions accordingly. This research analyzes how the mining sector in the region is incorporating the SDGs into its practices. To this end, 110 sustainability reports from 2018 to 2022 were examined, covering 41 mining sites operated by 17 companies included in the most recent Responsible Mining Index (RMI). Using content analysis and a semi-quantitative approach, the reported practices and indicators were assessed based on their alignment with the SDGs and the evolution of their impacts over time. Results show a strong emphasis on economic-related SDGs, followed by environmental, and then social goals. SDGs 6, 8, 4, and 13 are the most frequently addressed, whereas SDGs 2, 14, and 16 receive the least attention. After 2020, SDG adoption declined, shifting from comprehensive to more fragmented engagement. Implementing robust indicators and measuring impact remain key challenges. Nonetheless, some positive developments were identified, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and increased social investment. Modest improvements were also evidenced in female workforce participation and the inclusion of employees with disabilities. Negative trends were observed in waste generation, as well as in water and energy consumption. These findings underscore the need for the South American mining sector to strengthen both its commitment to the SDGs and the robustness of its reporting mechanisms.

The paper proposes a new efficiency criterion for biofuel thermochemical conversion processes: water production efficiency, which is equal to the ratio of the output and input water flows (in the form of fuel moisture and water vapor). Due to water formation from organic mass of biofuel, the water production efficiency may be higher than 100%. Using a thermodynamic model, the limits of water production efficiency are estimated under different stoichiometric conditions of steam-air gasification of biomass. It is shown that water yield (ranging from 50% for pyrolysis to 500% for full combustion) and energy efficiency (defined as cold gas efficiency, ranging from 0% for full combustion to 90% for pure steam gasification) contradict each other, so a compromise is needed when considering both criteria. An increase in the specific air consumption and a decrease in the specific steam consumption contribute to an increase in water production efficiency. At full combustion conditions, water production efficiency achieves stoichiometric limit and does not depend on other parameters. The calculated results allow determining the optimal conditions for carrying out thermochemical conversion processes with the multi-purpose use of biofuels.

When beef cattle drink less: Automated water intake monitoring as an early warning for respiratory disease during the adaptation period at the fattening unit.

Mycorrhizal inoculation and crop rotation as soil sustainable management strategies to reduce fertilizer use and water consumption in horticultural crops

Biomonitoring arsenic exposure by ancestry: the healthy life in an urban setting (HELIUS) study.

Sustainability in Brazilian public administration has been strengthened by legal frameworks that guide the conscious management of resources, such as Law No. 12.305/2010, which establishes the National Solid Waste Policy, and Law No. 14.133/2021, which sets sustainability criteria for public procurement. In this context, the Sustainable Logistics Management Plan emerges as an essential instrument to guide sustainable practices in public bodies, including higher education institutions. Based on its categories, such as reduction of water and energy consumption, waste management, and promotion of conscious consumption, this research conducts a systematic literature review to identify and categorize sustainable practices adopted by higher education institutions. Eighteen articles published between 2019 and 2025 were analyzed, considering geographic coverage, research types, and the diversity of sustainable practices developed. The results indicate a predominance of the conscious consumption promotion category, with a higher frequency of management and education practices compared to effective practices for reducing waste, pollutant emissions, consumption materials, water, and energy.

Coagulant Moringa oleifera lectin (cMoL) is one of the compounds involved in the application of M. oleifera seeds for traditional water treatment methods. The present study highlights the new biotechnological potential of cMoL lectin as an antifungal agent against Cryptococcus neoformans B3501 and H99 and Cryptococcus gattii R265 strains. Acute toxicity and genotoxicity were assessed to provide information on security utilization. The antifungal activity was evaluated using the broth microdilution test, flow cytometry, antibiofilm activity, and synergistic effects with fluconazole. Acute toxicity was determined by administering a single dose of cMoL (200 mg/kg) to female Swiss albino mice and examining the following parameters: water and feed consumption, weight variation, blood hematological and biochemical parameters, serum cytokine levels, and histopathological analyses. Genotoxicity was assessed using comet assay and micronucleus test. cMoL inhibited the growth of all tested isolates, with a minimal inhibitory concentration of 7.5 μg/mL. Flow cytometry data showed that cMoL (7.5 μg/mL) significantly decreased cell viability by promoting necrosis. cMoL was not found to be an antibiofilm agent against Cryptococcus species; however, it acted synergistically with fluconazole against C. neoformans H99. cMoL (200 mg/kg) did not cause animal death or toxicity. No hematological, biochemical, histopathological, or genotoxic effects were observed. These results encourage the exploration of cMoL as a natural and safe antifungal agent against Cryptococcus.

Recycling of Nd-Fe-B magnet sludge into high-performance powders is critical for sustainable rare-earth resource utilization. In this study, Nd-Fe-B powders were regenerated via a reduction-diffusion process and subjected to different washing treatments to investigate their effects on microstructure, phase composition, and magnetic properties. Conventional water washing at larger scales resulted in increased oxidation, depletion of Nd-rich phase, while requiring prolonged washing cycles and excessive water consumption. In contrast, scale up washing with an NH4NO3 solution in methanol effectively minimized oxidation, preserved Nd-rich, and maintained a uniform 1–2 μm particle size distribution. The resulting powders exhibited superior magnetic properties, including high coercivity, enhanced squareness, and an improved maximum energy product. The NH4NO3 in MeOH washing method also demonstrated higher yield, improved processing efficiency, and scalability, highlighting its potential as a practical approach for sustainable production of regenerated Nd-Fe-B powders. These findings provide a promising pathway for recycling magnet sludge into high-quality powders suitable for sintered magnet fabrication, contributing to resource conservation and the advancement of rare-earth recycling technologies.

The present study was conducted to assess the influence of turmeric (Curcuma domestica ) and white turmeric (Curcuma zedoaria) supplementation through drinking water on growth performance, carcass traits, and gut microbiota of superior native chickens. The experiment was carried out for eight weeks at Sesetan Farm, Faculty of Animal Science, Udayana University, involving 100 superior native chickens aged seven days with relatively homogeneous initial body weights. The study employed a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of four dietary treatments with five replications. The treatments included P0 (drinking water without supplementation), P1 (drinking water supplemented with 4% turmeric), P2 (drinking water supplemented with 4% white turmeric), and P3 (drinking water supplemented with a combination of 2% turmeric and 2% white turmeric). Parameters evaluated comprised production performance, carcass characteristics, and intestinal microbial populations, which were determined using the Total Plate Count (TPC) technique. The findings indicated that supplementation with turmeric and white turmeric did not significantly affect feed intake, water consumption, or feed conversion ratio. Nevertheless, birds receiving 4% turmeric supplementation exhibited higher body weight gain, final body weight, slaughter weight, and carcass weight. Furthermore, the inclusion of herbal supplements was associated with a reduction in pathogenic intestinal bacteria, particularly coliforms. In conclusion, turmeric demonstrates potential as a natural feed additive for improving productivity in superior native chicken production.

ABSTRACT In 2019, a hepatitis A outbreak in an Anabaptist community was reported to the Kentucky Department for Public Health. Epidemiological data suggested untreated spring water as a potential outbreak exposure. An environmental investigation was conducted to evaluate this less common hepatitis A virus (HAV) exposure source. We collected water samples from the main spring used for drinking and produce irrigation by the primary household where cases were identified, from springs feeding the main spring, and from the household's gray water discharge and human waste systems. Samples were tested for HAV, and viral and bacterial fecal indicators. HAV was detected in the main spring water and downstream of the household gray water discharge pipe. HAV was repeatedly detected in the follow-up samples from spring water and in wastewater from a new septic system. The environmental investigation confirmed HAV contamination of the household drinking water. Human-specific and general fecal indicators indicated a hydrological connection between the waste system and the drinking water source. Given that private springs are unregulated in the United States, spring water should be considered as a risk factor in HAV and other waterborne virus outbreaks within communities less likely to utilize water treatment systems.

Bladder cancer remains a prevalent malignancy worldwide, with increasing attention directed toward environmental determinants-particularly those related to water. This review examines the dual role of water, acting both as a vehicle for carcinogenic contaminants and as a protective factor through adequate hydration in the pathogenesis of bladder cancer. A comprehensive synthesis of epidemiological studies was performed, focusing on major water-related exposures, including arsenic, disinfection by-products (DBPs), nitrates, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and total fluid intake. The findings were evaluated in terms of the strength of association, biological plausibility, and public health relevance. Arsenic and DBPs have been consistently linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer, supported by robust evidence from case-control and cohort studies conducted across diverse geographic regions. In contrast, associations with nitrate and PFAS exposures remain less consistent and warrant further investigation. Conversely, higher water consumption appears to confer a protective effect, likely through dilution of urinary carcinogens and increased voiding frequency. Drinking-water quality represent modifiable determinants of bladder cancer risk. Regulatory measures targeting established contaminants, together with behavioral strategies , could substantially contribute to prevention efforts. Continued research is essential to clarify the role of emerging exposures and to inform evidence-based global water safety policies.

Consumption of water from man-made reservoirs and groundwater contaminated with arsenic and antimony increases the risk of kidney damage. The aim of the study was to investigate the spectrum of disorders of the excretory function of the kidneys in rats exposed to subthreshold, threshold, and effective doses of antimony and arsenic ingested with drinking water. Material and methods . Male Wistar rats (n = 125) received water from a man-made reservoir contaminated with antimony and arsenic for 90 days. The excretory function of the kidneys was evaluated on days 40 and 90 using conventional methods. Results and discussion . The specific effects of the combined action of antimony and arsenic on kidney function were studied, depending on the levels and duration of exposure, and the dose-response relationships were quantified. The predicted changes in kidney function indicators obtained using approximating curves were almost identical to the empirical data. Conclusions . The combined contamination of man-made reservoirs and groundwater with arsenic and antimony, which have nephrotoxic effects, increases the risk of kidney damage in potentially exposed population groups.

Heat stress poses a momentous challenge in poultry production, especially in tropical and subtropical areas, resulting in diminished growth performance, impaired health, and elevated mortality rates. While with the increase in global temperatures, it is imperative to reform effective strategies to alleviate heat stress. Phytase supplementation presents a promising solution, utilizing its enzymatic potential to improve phosphorus availability from plant-derived feed components. This review explores the role of phytase supplementation in alleviating the adverse effects of heat stress in chicken, emphasizing its physiological, metabolic, and immune-modulatory implications. Phytase treatment obviously enhances phosphorus use, facilitates skeletal development, and aids in regulating energy metabolism, essential for maintaining thermoregulation in chicken. Additionally, increased phosphorus bioavailability can enhance bone mineralization, immunological function, and general performance. Besides, phytase supplementation has demonstrated its ability to modulate gut health that can exacerbate heat stress and thus diminishing the hostile effects of heat stress. Recent studies have demonstrated that phytase can beneficially influence physiological parameters, including thermoregulation, feed intake, and water consumption, thereby enhancing poultry welfare during heat stress. This review evaluates the role of phytase in ameliorating adverse impacts of heat stress in chicken and examines the biochemical pathways whereby phytase affects thermal tolerance, including its possible influence on oxidative stress and inflammation.

Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are emerging contaminants of concern, and drinking water may represent an important exposure pathway. Evidence on internal exposure and contribution of drinking water remains limited. Under the hypothesis that bottled water consumption may lead to higher body burden of MNPs compared to tap water, this exploratory study investigated changes in MNPs and plastic-related additives in human biological samples following sequential changes in drinking water consumption. A randomized crossover intervention was conducted in volunteers (N = 3) sequentially switching between tap and bottled water consumption in randomized phases during 7 weeks (May-July 2022) in Barcelona, Spain. Stool (N = 48), urine (N = 48), tap water (N = 24), and bottled water (N = 2) samples were collected. MNP polymers 0.7-20 µm and chemicals used as additives in plastic production were quantified in biological samples through double suspect screening using high-performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry. Microplastics >1 µm in water were analyzed by pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. MNP polymers were detected in N = 40 (83%) stool samples and were above quantification limits (QL) in N = 30 (63%). Polyethylene was > QL in N = 20 (42%), polyamide in N = 8 (17%), polypropylene in N = 8 (17%), and polyoxymethylene in N = 2 (4%) samples. Detection rates were lower in urine samples. Plastic-related additives were identified in all urine samples, N = 27 different additives, with N = 15 > QL (median concentration range: 0.03-2196 µg/L). Microplastic polymers including polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyvinyl chloride were found in 62% of tap water samples (median total concentration: 0.18 µg/L), and polyethylene was detected in bottled water. Within the scope of this exploratory study, no significant differences between phases were found in MNP polymers and plastic additives concentrations in biological samples. Low detection rates of MNP polymers in stool and urine limited the statistical power. Larger, controlled studies are needed to further evaluate the contribution of drinking water on human MNP exposure.

Natural gas-fired combined power plants (NGFCPP) stand out as a promising technology for electricity generation, boasting high conversion efficiency and relatively low carbon dioxide emissions. Numerous researchers have explored diverse strategies to further optimize the performances of these systems. The main aims of this work are to model the 4E (energy, exergy, economic, and environmental) performances of a new design of an NGFCPP and compare them to those of an operating conventional plant (Hadjret Enouss plant). The obtained results show that the plant operating with the new design achieved a higher energy efficiency of 63.77%, compared to the Hadjret Enouss plant's 58.87%. Moreover, its exergy efficiency of 56.58% also surpassed the Hadjret Enouss plant's 55.54%. Although the NPV of the new design was slightly lower at 764.57M€ compared to the Hadjret Enouss plant's 776M€, the developed plant demonstrated superior sustainability with the lowest CO2 emissions at 40.77kg/s and the least cooling water consumption at 5.984m³/s. In conclusion, this new design offers significant long-term benefits, with the potential to save a considerable amount of fuel and reduce environmental impact over its lifetime. For example, over 35 years of operation, the developed plant can save 154.526million kg of natural gas compared to conventional NGFCPPs, leading to an annual reduction in CO2 emissions of approximately 24.28million kg.