Search

Purpose: The purpose of this paper was to prepare a ternary hierarchical rough particle to accelerate the anti-corrosive design for coastal concrete infrastructures. Design/methodology/approach: A kind of micro-nano hydrophobic ternary microparticles was fabricated from SiO2/halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) and recycled concrete powders (RCPs), which was then mixed with sodium silicate and silane to form an inorganic slurry. The slurry was further sprayed on the concrete surface to construct a superhydrophobic coating (SHC). Transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy mappings demonstrate that the nano-sized SiO2 has been grafted on the sub-micron HNTs and then further adhered to the surface of micro-sized RCP, forming a kind of superhydrophobic particles (SiO2/HNTs@RCP) featured of abundant micro-nano hierarchical structures. Findings: The SHC surface presents excellent superhydrophobicity with the water contact angle >156°. Electrochemical tests indicate that the corrosion rate of mild steel rebar in coated concrete reduces three-order magnitudes relative to the uncoated one in 3.5% NaCl solution. Water uptake and chloride ion (Cl-) diffusion tests show that the SHC exhibits high H2O and Cl- ions barrier properties thanks to the pore-sealing and water-repellence properties of SiO2/HNTs@RCP particles. Furthermore, the SHC possesses considerable mechanical durability and outstanding self-cleaning ability. Originality/value: SHC inhibits water uptake, Cl- diffusion and rebar corrosion of concrete, which will promote the sustainable application of concrete waste in anti-corrosive concrete projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A passive wedge screen, thanks to its many functional and environmental advantages, has recently become a popular type of surface water intake for municipal and industrial purposes. The design solutions proposed in this paper for a passive wedge wire screen intake model and two different deflectors have been experimentally tested under conditions that can be considered as no-flow conditions at the hydraulic flume. There was only a slight flow associated with the operation of the screen, while there was almost no flow in the hydraulic channel itself, such that it would be considered a watercourse. A hydraulic analysis was carried out, including velocity distribution around the screen as well as the determination of head losses with or without deflectors installed inside the screen. Lower inlet and inflow velocities to the surface of the water intake reduce the risk of injury or death to small fish and fry as well as attracting pollutants understood as sediments, debris, and plant remains floating in the river. In order to achieve the lowest possible maximum inlet and inflow velocities at the highest possible intake capacity, it was necessary to equalize the approach velocity distributions. It was shown that by using the proposed deflectors, the approach velocity distributions were equalized and the maximum values of inflow and inlet velocities were reduced. A water intake screen with a deflector with an uneven porosity distribution equalized the approach velocities better than a deflector with equal openings, but the differences were small. Installing the wedge screen model reduced the maximum inlet velocity from exceeding 2 m/s to a value of 0.08 m/s, and after installing deflectors with equal and unequal openings to values of 0.06 m/s and 0.05 m/s, respectively. In addition to laboratory tests, the paper describes the numerical simulations performed in ANSYS Fluent software. The results of the simulations made it possible to obtain a broader study, as well as to compare the velocity values obtained at the measuring points during the laboratory tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

First morning urine (FMU) assessment would be a practical and convenient solution for clinically acceptable detection of underhydration prior to competition/training, and for the general public. Thus, we thus sought to determine the diagnostic accuracy of FMU as a valid indicator of recent (previous 24 hr, 5 days average) hydration practices. For 5 consecutive days and one final morning, 67 healthy women (n = 38) and men (n = 29; age: 20 [1] years, body mass index: 25.9 [5.5]) completed 24-hr diet logs for total water intake (from beverages and foods, absolute and relative to body mass), 24-hr urine and FMU collection (last morning only) for osmolality (Osm), specific gravity (SG), and color (Col), and morning blood sampling for plasma osmolality and copeptin. Correlations determined significance and relationship strength among FMU and all other variables. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curves, sensitivity, specificity, and positive likelihood ratios were employed using previously reported values to indicate underhydration (total water intake < 30 ml/kg, osmolality > 500, and >800 mOsm/kg, specific gravity > 1.017, and copeptin > 6.93 pmol/L). FMU_Osm and FMU_SG were significantly correlated (p <.05) to all variables except the previous 5-day plasma osmolality. FMU_Col was only significantly correlated with other color time intervals and total water intake per gram. FMU_Osm held greatest utility (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, sensitivity, and specificity >80%) overall, with the best outcome being FMU_Osm indicating a previous 24-hr osmolality threshold of 500 mOsm/kg (FMU_Osm criterion >710 mOsm/kg and positive likelihood ratio = 5.9). With less effort and cost restriction, FMU is a viable metric to assess underhydration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydration status plays a key role in healthy ageing, and it is potentially affected by several factors, including drug consumption. However, research on this issue to date is scarce, especially in highly vulnerable groups, such as the elderly. We aimed to study the relationship linking hydration status, analysed by means of a validated questionnaire, 24 h urine analysis, body composition assessment, and drug consumption in a sample of old adults. A total of 144 elders were included in the study. Cardiovascular drug consumption was significantly associated with a lower water intake in men (β = −0.282, p = 0.029). Moreover, urinary analysis revealed that total drug intake as well as the consumption of diuretics and cardiovascular drugs were associated with poorer hydration status, whereas genito-urinary drugs were associated with an opposite effect, and these results were confirmed in terms of body composition. Hence, total drug consumption (β = −0.205), diuretic (β = −0.408), cardiovascular (β = −0.297), and genito-urinary drugs (β = 0.298) were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with total body water. The obtained results confirmed the impact of chronic treatment with certain drugs on hydration status. Nutritional interventions may be of great interest in certain population groups in order to prevent complications due to altered hydration status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the continuous development of economy and society, great changes have taken place in the national water intake situation. In order to adapt to the requirements of high-quality development of water resources management in the new situation and respond to the needs of building a smart water digital twin data base, the construction of the national water resources monitoring and measurement system needs to be strengthened. As the main water intake form in China at this stage, it is necessary to study the technical methods to improve its monitoring and measurement capacity. This paper investigates and studies the data of more than 5.5 million water intakes nationwide collected in 2021 by combining field investigation and data collection. From the national and typical provincial levels, the current situation of water intake monitoring and metering is analyzed according to different water intake scales, water intake purposes, water intake projects, monitoring and metering facilities and water transmission type, and the comparison and selection of monitoring and metering facilities, improvement of monitoring accuracy. Technical methods are proposed to improve the stability and durability of monitoring, improve the application of system platform functions, and promote the improvement of pipeline type water intake monitoring and metering capacity. The research shows that: ➀ The number and distribution of water intakes across the country are significant. The number of water intakes is huge and the spatial distribution is uneven. There are many water intakes in the north, mainly groundwater intakes, and few water intakes in the south, mainly surface water intakes. ➁ The national water intake monitoring and metering work should be further strengthened. At this stage, the focus should be on improving the pipeline type water intake monitoring and metering capacity. The monitoring and metering methods and facilities used are different due to different conditions such as water intake scale, water intake scene and water intake purpose. The error, environmental adaptability, measurement cost, advantages and disadvantages and unique application scenarios of different monitoring and measurement facilities are quite different. ➂ The monitoring and metering lifting of pipeline type water intakes is a comprehensive task. It is necessary to comprehensively improve the monitoring and metering capacity of the water intake from four aspects: metering accuracy, stability and durability, system platform application capability, and the introduction of relevant technical standards. The research findings provide an important basic data reference for comprehensively understanding the current situation of water intake monitoring and metering in China, a technical reference for improving the monitoring and metering capacity of pipeline water intakes, and a technical support for the next step of water intake supervision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Both short and long sleep durations are associated with decreased kidney function; however, few studies have examined the relationship between sleep, hydration status, and plain water intake. This study aimed to assess the relationship between sleep quality, hydration status, and plain water intake in pregnant women. Methods: A cross-sectional study method was used to collect data from 380 pregnant women with regular examinations at the hospital between May 2019 and February 2021. Results: There were statistically significant differences in daily plain water intake (x2 = 14.118, p = 0.001), PSQI score (x2 = 77.708, p < 0.001), sleep duration (x2 = 67.569, p > 0.001), subjective sleep quality (x2 = 67.441, p = 0.001), time to fall asleep (x2 = 64.782, p < 001), sleep disorders (x2 = 70.853, p < 0.001), and daytime dysfunction (x2 = 38.441, p < 0.001) among different hydration status groups. Ordinal logistic regression results indicated that the intake of plain water ≥1500 mL/d (OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.24~0.67), good subjective sleep quality (OR = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.07~0.32), short time to fall asleep (OR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.14~0.70), 8 h of sleep (OR = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.02~0.17), 6–7 h of sleep (OR = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.07~0.54), no sleep disturbance (OR = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.11~0.89), and high sleep efficiency (OR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.03~0.79) were factors that were correlated with optimal hydration status. Sleep duration and daytime dysfunction partially mediated the effect of plain water intake on hydration status. The mediating effect of sleep duration was −0.036, accounting for 14.006% of the overall effect. The mediating effect of daytime dysfunction was −0.024, accounting for 9.459% of the overall effect. Conclusion: The hydration status in pregnant women may be affected by daily plain water intake and sleep quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice bean [Vigna umbellata (Thunb.) Ohwi and Ohashi], an annual legume in the genus Vigna, is a promising crop suitable for cultivation in a changing climate to ensure food security. It is also a medicinal plant widely used in traditional Chinese medicine; however, little is known about the medicinal compounds in rice bean. In this study, we assessed the diuretic effect of rice bean extracts on mice as well as its relationship with the contents of eight secondary metabolites in seeds. Mice gavaged with rice bean extracts from yellow and black seeds had higher urinary output (5.44–5.47 g) and water intake (5.8–6.3 g) values than mice gavaged with rice bean extracts from red seeds. Correlation analyses revealed significant negative correlations between urine output and gallic acid (R = −0.70) and genistein (R = −0.75) concentrations, suggesting that these two polyphenols negatively regulate diuresis. There were no obvious relationships between mice diuresis-related indices (urine output, water intake, and weight loss) and rutin or catechin contents, although the concentrations of both of these polyphenols in rice bean seeds were higher than the concentrations of the other six secondary metabolites. Our study findings may be useful for future research on the diuretic effects of rice bean, but they should be confirmed on the basis of systematic medical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Water consumption is believed to be a key factor in weight management strategies, yet the existing literature on the subject yields inconsistent findings. To systematically assess the scientific evidence regarding the effect of water intake on adiposity, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) among overweight and obese populations. Methods: PubMed and Embase were searched for relevant articles published up to December 2023. The summary weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated using the DerSimonian–Laird random-effects model. Results: In this meta-analysis of eight RCTs, interventions to promote water intake or to substitute water for other beverages as compared to the control group resulted in a summary WMD of −0.33 kg (95% CI = −1.75–1.08, I2 = 78%) for body weight, −0.23 kg/m2 (95% CI = −0.55–0.09, I2 = 0%) for body mass index (BMI), and 0.05 cm (95% CI = −1.20–1.30, I2 = 40%) for waist circumference (WC). Among RCTs substituting water for artificially sweetened beverages, summary WMD was 1.82 kg (95% CI = 0.97–2.67, I2 = 0%) for body weight and 1.23 cm (95% CI = −0.03–2.48, I2 = 0%) for WC. Conversely, among RCTs substituting water for sugar-sweetened beverages, summary WMD was −0.81 kg (95% CI = −1.66–0.03, I2 = 2%) for body weight and −0.96 cm (95% CI = −2.06–0.13, I2 = 0%) for WC. Conclusions: In conclusion, water intake may not significantly impact adiposity among overweight and obese individuals. However, replacing sugar-sweetened beverages with water might offer a modest benefit in inducing weight loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper considers the issues of controlling the surface and ground water drainage in combined drainage-irrigation systems. The most common ways of regulating the drainage of surface waters, aimed at preventing the land waterlogging, creating conditions for timely agrotechnical measures, and protecting the soil from erosion, are represented. The main directions of developments associated with the control of the ground water level under non-black earth conditions are shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this changing climate scenario, the availability of potable water has become scarce for both humans and animals in many parts of the world. Continuous supply of water is crucial for animals’ life as well as different body and sanitary maintenance needs. Water availability has a direct and indirect role in clenching thirst, feeding, cleaning of animals and their environment, and other dairy operations. Water intake by dairy animals is affected by several factors including body weight of animals, genetic makeup, dry matter intake, mineral content of feed offered, milk productivity, environmental conditions, and water temperature. Behavioral patterns of dairy animals are adversely affected by restriction of water supply to them. Researchers have recommended that ad libitum water supply should be assured to the farm animals to avoid any negative effect on their health and performances. In the recent years, there is growing interest in quantifying the effects of restricted water supply to dairy animals. Many studies have demonstrated that the availability of potable water for animals will be a great challenge soon. Therefore, the present review paper has been formulated to gain better understanding of the factors affecting water intake in dairy animals and management strategies to ensure availability of water resources essential for their health, production, and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In the near future, several areas of the world will be affected by climate change, reducing their water availability. More than 90% of goats are found in Asia and Africa, and it is believed that these animals would be more resilient to climate change. Their milk is a good source of nutrients, contributing to the food security of the poorest and rural communities. Considering that milk is mostly water, it is essential to understand how the goat mammary gland can respond at a productive, cellular, hormonal, and blood level when faced with reduced water intake scenarios, as well as analyzing prospects in terms of more sustainable goat milk production. Due to climate change, diverse territories of the planet will suffer from water restrictions. Goats are perceived as the most resilient ruminants in this scenario. So, various studies have focused on describing how a lower water intake influences milk production, especially in breeds adapted to desert environments. In water-stress situations, goats lose up to 32% of their body weight (BW), the rate of passage is reduced, and the digestibility of the feed increases. When goats consume water again, the rumen prevents hemolysis and osmotic shock from occurring. Regarding milk production, the response varies depending on the breed and the level of water restriction, maintaining the milk volume or reducing it by up to 41%. Systemically, it decreases the urinary volume and glomerular filtration rate, increasing blood osmolality and the vasopressin (ADH) concentration. Studies are scarce regarding changes in blood flow to the mammary gland, but there would be a reduction in blood flow velocity of up to 40% without changing blood pressure. New studies must be undertaken to determine which breeds or crosses are the best adapted to changing environmental conditions and to improve our understanding of the changes that occur at the morphophysiological level of the caprine mammary gland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To estimate the economic impact of preventing urinary tract infections (UTI) by increasing water intake among women with recurrent UTI and low fluid intake across seven countries: France, United Kingdom, Spain, United States of America, Mexico, China and Australia. Methods: A Markov model was developed to compare costs and outcomes of UTIs associated with low fluid intake in women versus a strategy of primary prevention by increasing water intake. Model inputs were based on randomized controlled trial data which found that increasing water intake by 1.5 L/day decreased the risk of developing cystitis by 48% in women with low fluid intake and recurrent UTI. A time horizon of 10 years was used; outcomes were from the payer perspective and included both direct and indirect costs, reported in 2019 United States dollars ($). Discounting rates varied by country. Scenarios of increasing levels of compliance to the increased water intake strategy were evaluated. Results: The total cost of one UTI episode, including diagnostics, treatment and complications, ranged from $2164 (Mexico) to $7671 (Australia). Assuming 80% compliance with the increased water intake strategy over a 10-year time horizon, the number of UTIs prevented ranged from 435,845 (Australia) to 24150,272 (China), resulting in total savings of 286 million (Australia) to $4.4 billion (China). Across all countries, increased water intake resulted in lower cost and fewer UTIs compared with low water intake. Conclusion: Preventing recurrent UTIs by increasing water intake would reduce both the clinical and economic burden associated with UTI. Public, healthcare professionals and patients should be made aware about the preventive positive impact of appropriate water intake on UTIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water resource conservation and management is vital as well for humankind, as for nature and economy, and is exposed to anthropogenic and climatic pressures, transcends national boundaries. The EU Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC establishes a legal framework to protect and restore clean water in the EU and to secure its long-term sustainable use and mitigate the effects of floods and drought. In this regard, EU member-states are developing river basin management plans based on current characteristics and water status and programs with measures. In the planning process were identified different types of pressures on the surface waters, defining the significant management issues, such as pollution with biogenic substances, organic and chemical pollution, pressure from water intake and climate pressure. These problems solutions require both science-based approaches and specific target measures definitions to improve the water resources status and the level of their management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animals during the period of intensive growth and development need large amounts of nutrients. Young animals, especially newborns, are exceptionally vulnerable to potentially deleterious effects of nutritional deficiencies. Water is the main component of animal rations. Many dairy calves do not have sufficient access to drinking water. All calves, even those consuming large volumes of milk, should have access to drinking water. Milk does not meet their water requirements. Sick calves and calves reared in high ambient temperatures require free access to drinking water at all times. It is reasonable to offer free drinking water immediately after birth. The aim of this paper was to present the aspects connected with drinking water in calf nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animals during the period of intensive growth and development need large amounts of nutrients. Young animals, especially newborns, are exceptionally vulnerable to potentially deleterious effects of nutritional deficiencies. Water is the main component of animal rations. Many dairy calves do not have sufficient access to drinking water. All calves, even those consuming large volumes of milk, should have access to drinking water. Milk does not meet their water requirements. Sick calves and calves reared in high ambient temperatures require free access to drinking water at all times. It is reasonable to offer free drinking water immediately after birth. The aim of this paper was to present the aspects connected with drinking water in calf nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-yielding dairy cows have exceptionally high water requirement. These animals may drink up 100 L of water per day. Water is the main component of animal rations. Dairy cow free water intake significantly exceeds dry matter intake. Access to drinking water determines animal health, welfare and performance. Even short-term water deprivation may negatively affect dairy cows. Factors influencing dairy cow water intake include body weight, milk yield, dry matter intake, diet composition, ambient temperature and physiological state. The aim of this paper was to present the aspects connected with drinking water in dairy cow nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to its renal and cardiovascular functions, angiotensin signalling is thought to be responsible for the increases in salt and water intake caused by hypovolaemia. However, it remains unclear whether these behaviours require angiotensin production in the brain or liver. Here, we use in situ hybridization to identify tissue‐specific expression of the genes required for producing angiotensin peptides, and then use conditional genetic deletion of the angiotensinogen gene (Agt) to test whether production in the brain or liver is necessary for sodium appetite and thirst. In the mouse brain, we identified expression of Agt (the precursor for all angiotensin peptides) in a large subset of astrocytes. We also identified Ren1 and Ace (encoding enzymes required to produce angiotensin II) expression in the choroid plexus, and Ren1 expression in neurons within the nucleus ambiguus compact formation. In the liver, we confirmed that Agt is widely expressed in hepatocytes. We next tested whether thirst and sodium appetite require angiotensinogen production in astrocytes or hepatocytes. Despite virtually eliminating expression in the brain, deleting astrocytic Agt did not reduce thirst or sodium appetite. Despite markedly reducing angiotensinogen in the blood, eliminating Agt from hepatocytes did not reduce thirst or sodium appetite, and in fact, these mice consumed the largest amounts of salt and water after sodium deprivation. Deleting Agt from both astrocytes and hepatocytes also did not prevent thirst or sodium appetite. Our findings suggest that angiotensin signalling is not required for sodium appetite or thirst and highlight the need to identify alternative signalling mechanisms. Key points: Angiotensin signalling is thought to be responsible for the increased thirst and sodium appetite caused by hypovolaemia, producing elevated water and sodium intake.Specific cells in separate brain regions express the three genes needed to produce angiotensin peptides, but brain‐specific deletion of the angiotensinogen gene (Agt), which encodes the lone precursor for all angiotensin peptides, did not reduce thirst or sodium appetite.Double‐deletion of Agt from brain and liver also did not reduce thirst or sodium appetite.Liver‐specific deletion of Agt reduced circulating angiotensinogen levels without reducing thirst or sodium appetite. Instead, these angiotensin‐deficient mice exhibited an enhanced sodium appetite.Because the physiological mechanisms controlling thirst and sodium appetite continued functioning without angiotensin production in the brain and liver, understanding these mechanisms requires a renewed search for the hypovolaemic signals necessary for activating each behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the example of the city and commune of Mikołajki, the state of water and sewage management as well as the management of groundwater resources available in the commune has been characterized for a typical tourist town and commune located in Mrągowo County, Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship. The town and commune of Mikołajki, located in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, has about 7 457 inhabitants. Over 83% of the commune's inhabitants are covered by the water supply network. The Mikołajki commune has four water intakes (one of which is out of use) and three water treatment plants. The water used by the inhabitants of the commune meets all sanitary requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The main objective was to investigate the association of household food insecurity (HFI) with child oral health. A secondary objective was to explore potential dietary and non-dietary mediators of the HFI-child oral health relationship.Design: Cross-sectional data from the nationally representative Ecuadorian National Health and Nutrition Survey (2018) were analysed. The data included self-reported child oral health, HFI (Food Insecurity Experience Scale), diet (FFQ) and oral care behaviours (toothbrushing frequency, toothpaste use). The association of HFI with the reported number of oral health problems was examined with stereotype logistic regression. Parallel mediation analysis was used to explore potential dietary (highly fermentable carbohydrate foods, plain water) and non-dietary (toothbrushing) mediators of the HFI-oral health relationship. Bias-corrected standard errors and 95 % CI were obtained using non-parametric bootstrapping (10 000 repetitions). Effect size was measured by percent mediation (PM).Setting: Ecuador.Participants: 5-17-year-old children (n 23 261).Results: HFI affected 23 % of child households. 38·5 % of children have at least one oral health problem. HFI was associated with a greater number of oral health problems: 1-2 problems (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1·37; 95 % CI (1·15, 1·58); P = 0·0001), 3-4 problems (AOR = 2·21; 95 % CI (1·98, 2·44); P = 0·0001), 5-6 problems (AOR = 2·57; 95 % CI (2·27, 2·88); P = 0·0001). The HFI-oral health relationship was partially mediated by highly fermentable carbohydrate foods (PM = 4·3 %), plain water (PM = 1·8 %) and toothbrushing frequency (PM = 3·3 %).Conclusions: HFI was associated with poorer child oral health. The HFI-oral health relationship was partially mediated by dietary and non-dietary factors. Longitudinal studies are needed to replicate our findings and investigate the role of other potential mediators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of diets containing varying levels of sodium chloride as a source of electrolyte on growth performance, organ traits, gastrointestinal impact, tibia mineralization, and water intake of broiler chickens were investigated. A total of 300 mixed sexed of day-old chicks at two weeks of age were allotted to 6 dietary treatments in a completely randomized experimental design with 5 replicates of 10 birds each. The dietary treatments during the starter phase, from 14 to 28 days old, were supplemented by varying NaCl levels including T1= 0 g/kg (control), T2= 1.30 g/kg, T3= 2.00 g/kg, T4= 2.30 g/kg, T5= 3.30 g/kg and T6= 4.00 g/kg. The dietary treatments during finisher phase, from 28 days to 56 days old, included: T1=0 g/kg (control), T2= 2.30 g/kg, T3=3.30 g/kg, T4= 4.30 g/kg, T5= 5.30 g/kg and T6= 6.30 g/kg. Result of the study showed that birds in T3 and T4 that were fed diet with moderate inclusion levels of sodium chloride had the highest (P<0.05) feed intake and body weight gain with an improved feed conversion ratio. Generally, treatment groups T2 to T9 had the highest (P<0.05) weight of gizzard, liver, heart, kidney, intestines and caeca. Also, intestine lengths, caecal length, excreta moisture, water intake, ileal and pH of caecal digesta were highest in treatment groups. However, result of the tibia mineralization analysis showed that ash content in T1 (control) was the highest (P<0.05). It is concluded that T3 and T4 in broilers diet can improve growth performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the process of redesigning the intake structure of the fish pass at the Žilina water structure in Slovakia. The existing intake structure does not meet the passability requirements for the target species of migratory fish. A design utilizing intake windows at various levels that cover fluctuations in the water level in the reservoir, which has been successfully used for other water structures, has been proposed. The new design was subjected to hydraulic calculations and simulations in the HECRAS 2D, 2D numerical model in order to achieve the required parameters such as the discharges, depths, and velocities within the limits for the specified fish zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated alternatives to the main intake designs of spate irrigation structures. Relevant data were collected from a field and offices. Four scenarios were developed based on current problems. The Delft3D model was employed to simulate hydrodynamic and morphodynamic flow characteristics around the main intake. The study showed that increasing the deflection angle from 120° to 150° for a 3-m-wide intake can improve the irrigation water abstraction by 21%. Changing the width from 3 to 5 m at 120° can improve the irrigation water abstraction by 81%. In addition to changing the width, increasing the deflection angle to 150° can improve the spate irrigation water abstraction by 101%. These interventions did not reduce the sediment deposition at the intake. However, the enhanced supply of water through main spate flow gates may convince farmers not to block scour sluice gates. Based on the pure design, an intake width of 5 m and a deflection angle of 150° can be recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal intakes of surface water have various uses, and their impacts on the aquatic environment and ecosystem, such as the impingement and entrainment of ichthyoplankton, are a major concern. A robust assessment of the intake impacts on ichthyoplankton in a system generally requires modeling efforts that can simulate the transport and dispersal pathways of the ichthyoplankton. However, it is challenging to simulate hydrodynamics with a high-resolution grid at the scale needed for intake screen sizes in a large system. In this study, a 3D unstructured grid model with a fine resolution grid (<1 m) was developed to investigate potential impacts of an intake on aquatic resources in a tidal freshwater estuary. This approach enables us to directly estimate intake-induced mortality. With the use of the coupled particle-tracking model, we evaluated the total and maximum daily removal rates of particles by the intake that can be used to estimate percent mortality of ichthyoplankton. We further investigated how impacts from the intake vary with spawning locations, flow conditions, and vertical migration velocity of ichthyoplankton. A risk assessment was conducted based on designed flow of water withdrawals. This approach is widely applicable and can address impacts of water intakes in other systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Evaluating the association of water intake and hydration status with nephrolithiasis risk at the population level.Design: It is a cross-sectional study in which daily total plain water intake and total fluid intake were estimated together with blood osmolality, urine creatinine, urine osmolality, urine flow rate (UFR), free water clearance (FWC) and urine/blood osmolality ratio (Uosm:Bosm). The associations of fluid intake and hydration markers with nephrolithiasis were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression.Setting: General US population.Participants: A total of 8195 adults aged 20 years or older from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey 2009-2012 cycles.Results: The population medians (interquartile ranges, IQR) for daily total plain water intake and total fluid intake were 807 (336-1481) and 2761 (2107-3577) ml/d, respectively. The adjusted OR (95 % CI) of nephrolithiasis for each IQR increase in total plain water intake and total fluid intake were 0·92 (95 % CI 0·79, 1·06) and 0·84 (95 % CI 0·72, 0·97), respectively. The corresponding OR of nephrolithiasis for UFR, blood osmolality, Uosm:Bosm and urine creatinine were 0·87 (95 % CI 0·76, 0·99), 1·18 (95 % CI 1·06, 1·32), 1·38 (95 % CI 1·17, 1·63) and 1·27 (95 % CI 1·11, 1·45), respectively. A linear protective relationship of fluid intake, UFR and FWC with nephrolithiasis risk was observed. Similarly, positive dose-response associations of nephrolithiasis risk with markers of insufficient hydration were identified. Encouraging a daily water intake of >2500 ml/d and maintaining a urine output of 2 l/d was associated with a lower prevalence of nephrolithiasis.Conclusion: This study verified the beneficial role of general water intake recommendations in nephrolithiasis prevention in the general US population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports that Hydration is a particular concern for infants and young children due to their greater risk of dehydration. However, studies on their water intakes are scarce. The current survey aimed to analyse total water intake (TWI) in non-breastfed children aged 0·5-35 months compared with the adequate intake (AI) for the same age group set by the European Food Safety Authority and to examine the different contributors to TWI as well as beverage consumption patterns.

Introduction: Multiple factors contribute to increased risk of dehydration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which contributes to shortened survival independent of nutritional status. The assessment of hydration by doubly labeled water is restricted due to the limited availability of this gold standard technique for clinical use. This prompted us to examine the utility of urine-specific gravity (USG) as a predictor of hydration need in ALS subjects. Material and Methods: Using data from a multicenter study of 80 ALS subjects with 250 visits, we conducted a secondary analysis of the original data set from doubly labeled water experiments. We used a cross-section of the data (one visit per 75 subjects) in the model selection step ("test set"), and a repeated measures analysis in the validation step with data from 63 subjects and 142 follow-up visits. The sensitivity to detect inadequate water turnover rate (a surrogate for water intake) was the goal of the predictive model presented for clinical use. Results and discussion: The final predictive model to estimate water requirement included USG, gender, body mass index, and the ALSFRS gross motor subscale score. We developed a best-fit equation to estimate water intake from USG, determine hydration status, and improve clinical care of real-world ALS subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The lateral hypothalamus (LH), which produces orexin, is vital for body solution homeostasis. Lateral hypothalamus (LH) lesion causes adipsia and its stimulation increases water intake. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of an intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of orexin-A (OXA) on water-drinking behavior in water-deprived rats. Metods: A total of 32 male Wistar rats (220-250 g) were used and divided into 4 groups, control (no injection), vehicle (Normal saline, 5 µL), OXA (30 µg/rat), SB-334867 (OXA receptor selective antagonist, 30 µg/rat). After the microinjection of drugs or vehicles in the right lateral ventricle, each rat was placed individually into the metabolic cage and the amount of water intake, the delay time for the first water intake, and the referral number for water intake were recorded for 4 h. Findings: This study showed that ICV administration of OXA increased both water intake and the referral number for water intake in water-deprived animals (P<0.05). On the other hand, ICV administration of SB-334867 decreased water intake compared to vehicle and control groups. Conclusion: It can be concluded that OXA has a regulatory role in water drinking behavior in water-depriving states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have shown that multicomponent interventions may improve meal frequency and eating habits in children, but evidence among young people is limited. This study evaluated the effect of the Healthy High School (HHS) intervention on daily intake of breakfast, lunch, water, fruit, and vegetables at 9-month follow-up. Methods: The study included first-year students (≈16 years) attending high school in Denmark. Participating schools were randomized into the HHS intervention (N = 15) or control group (operating as usual) (N = 15). The intervention was designed to promote well-being (primary outcome) by focusing on healthy habits including meals, stress prevention, and strong peer relations. It included a curriculum, structural and organisational initiatives, a workshop, and a smartphone application. Students completed self-administered online questionnaires at the beginning of the school year and nine months later. To account for clustering of data, we used multilevel logistic regression analyses to estimate odds ratios (OR). We applied an intention-to-treat approach with multiple imputations of missing data. Results: At baseline 4577 of 5201 students answered the questionnaire and 4512 at follow-up. In both groups the proportion of students eating breakfast decreased from approximately 50% to 40% from baseline to follow-up, and lunch frequency decreased from approximately 50% to 47%. Daily water intake, intake of fresh fruit and intake of vegetables remained unchanged from baseline to follow-up. There were no significant between group differences on any of the outcomes at first follow-up: breakfast: OR = 0.85 (95% CI: 0.65;1.10), lunch: OR = 0.96 (95% CI: 0.75;1.22), water intake: OR = 1.14 (95% CI: 0.92;1.40), intake of fresh fruit: (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.84;1.37), vegetables: (OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.77;1.33). Conclusion: No evidence of an effect of the HHS intervention was found for any of the outcomes. Future studies are warranted to explore how health promoting interventions can be integrated in further education to support educational goals. Moreover, how to fit interventions to the lives and wishes of young people, by also including systems outside of the school setting. Trial registration: ISRCTN, ISRCTN43284296. Registered 28 April 2017 - retrospectively registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Water needs increase during pregnancy, and proper hydration is critical for maternal and fetal health. This study characterized weekly hydration status changes throughout pregnancy and examined change in response to a randomized, behavioral intervention. An exploratory analysis tested how underhydration during pregnancy was associated with birth outcomes. Methods: The Healthy Mom Zone Study is a longitudinal, randomized-control trial intervention aiming to regulate gestational weight gain (GWG) in pregnant women with overweight/obesity (n = 27). Fourteen women received standard of care; 13 women additionally received weekly guidance on nutrition, physical activity, water intake, and health-promoting behaviors. Hydration status was measured weekly via overnight urine osmolality (Uosm) from ~ 8–36 weeks gestation; underhydration was dichotomized (Uosm ≥ 500 mOsm/kg). Gestational age- and sex-standardized birth weight and length z scores and percentiles were calculated. We used mixed-effect and linear regression models to test covariate-adjusted relationships. Results: No differences existed in Uosm or other characteristics between control and intervention women at baseline. Significant interactions (p = 0.01) between intervention and week of pregnancy on Uosm indicated intervention women maintained lower Uosm, whereas control women had a significant quadratic (inverse-U) relationship and greater Uosm in the second and early third trimesters. Results were consistent across robustness and sensitivity checks. Exploratory analyses suggest underhydration was associated with birth weight, but not length, in opposite ways in the second vs. third trimester. Conclusion: A multi-component behavioral intervention helped women with overweight/obesity maintain better hydration throughout pregnancy. Future studies should confirm birth outcome results as they have important implications for early life nutrition. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03945266; registered May 10, 2019 retrospectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the experimental study of a behavioural barrier consisting of a bubble curtain placed near an ecological river water intake, aiming to assess the bubble curtain's influence on the velocity field of water flowing in the water intake proximity. The scientific novelty is given by the water intake solution operating in tandem with the dedicated bubble curtain generator used for avoiding fish entrapment. The water intake solution used in the present research is based on a run-of-river intake without a dam in the riverbed, maintaining the mountain rivers longitudinal connectivity. An experimental setup was designed and built to study the behavioural barrier for ecological water intakes in different operating conditions. Thus, tests were performed for two water velocities (0.33 m/s and 0.535 m/s) in the experimental setup, two water depths (92 mm and 119 mm) and two air flow rates (10.5 LPM and 15 LPM). The results were compared with the case when no air is injected through the bubble curtain generator. The assessment of the bubble curtain influence on the water flow inside the channel was made by measuring and analysing the velocity variation in vertical and horizontal direction. The results showed a significant velocity gradient in the bubble curtain proximity, which can contribute to influencing the behaviour of the fish by deterring them from the water intake area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]