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The δ7Li of marine carbonates has been interpreted as an archive of the evolution of seawater δ7Li, and therefore continental weathering, through geological time. However, little is known about the incorporation of Li into calcium carbonate minerals and, consequently, the controls on Li partitioning (D Li) and isotopic fractionation (Δ7Li solid-fluid) associated with Li incorporation. Crucially, we lack a fundamental understanding of how Li partitioning and Δ7Li solid-fluid change in response to the chemical and physical conditions of crystal formation. Here, we present D Li and Δ7Li solid-fluid data from a series of inorganic calcite precipitation experiments where temperature, and solution pH and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) were independently varied. We find D Li values in the range 0.8–1.5 × 10−3, which show no relationship with temperature, a strong positive correlation with pH, and a weak positive correlation with DIC. At face value, these patterns are inconsistent with the results of previous precipitation studies. However, the correlations with pH and DIC are consistent with a strong precipitation rate control on D Li that aligns well with previous data, with a likely secondary influence from the incorporation of Li-HCO 3 0 ion pairs from solution. We find Δ7Li solid-fluid values in the range −6 to −2 ‰, which show no relationship with temperature or pH, and a weak positive correlation with DIC and crystal precipitation rate. These results do not agree with previously published data. Considered alongside previously published data, we observe no consistent relationship between Δ7Li solid-fluid and any reported physical or chemical experimental parameter, highlighting the need for substantial further work to determine whether systematic controls on Li isotopic fractionation exist in carbonate minerals, and whether they may be environmentally significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to create a new Li metasilicate-based glass-ceramic for dental use, prioritizing improved chemical durability (CD) and machinability while preserving good glass-forming ability (GFA) and adequate mechanical properties. Characterization also involved examining fracture strength (S f) and fracture toughness (K IC). The experimental approach involved precise microstructural adjustments through designed compositional changes and controlled thermal treatments. Four compositions underwent scrutiny using mechanical tests, microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction to analyze the impact of lithium metasilicate (LS) and disilicate (LS2) crystals on these properties. Machinability was evaluated by weight loss measurements during controlled grinding experiments. The developed GCs exhibited interconnected acicular LS and LS2 crystals, which resulted in favorable S f ∼300 MPa and K IC ∼1.7 MPa m1/2 (SEVNB). Although the K IC was smaller than that of an experimental LS-LS2 GC (285 MPa and 3 MPa m1/2(double torsion)) used as a reference, the chemical durability (126 μg/cm2 for ML14F GC) improved by nearly 50 % compared to the reference (∼220 μg/cm2). This study introduced three new GCs with LS as the major phase (rather than the traditional LS2), showcasing commendable GFA, chemical durability and machinability, with satisfactory flexural strength and fracture toughness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium is an effective mood stabiliser, but its mechanism of action is incompletely defined. Even at very low doses, lithium may have neuroprotective effects, but it is not clear if these relate to brain lithium concentration in vivo. We have developed magnetic resonance imaging (7Li-MRI) methods to detect lithium in the brain following supplementation at a very low dose. Lithium orotate supplements were taken by nine healthy adult male subjects (5 mg daily) for up to 28 days, providing 2–7 % of the lithium content of a typical therapeutic lithium carbonate dose. One-dimensional 7Li-images were acquired on a 3.0 T MRI scanner. All subjects were scanned on day 14 or 28; seven were scanned on both, one at baseline and one after 7-days washout. 7Li-MR signal amplitude was broadly stable between days 14 and 28. Two subjects had notably higher 7Li-signal intensities (approximately 2–4×) compared to other study participants. Lithium adherence was self-reported by all participants without formal validation. The coarse spatial resolution necessary for detection of low concentrations of 7Li exhibits imperfect spatial separation of signal from adjacent pixels. 7Li-MRI performed using a clinical 3T scanner demonstrated detection of lithium in the brain at very low concentration, in the range of approximately 10–60 mM. The methods are suited to studies assessing low dose lithium administration in psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, and permit the comparison of different lithium salt preparations at a time of emerging interest in the field. • 7Li-MRI permits direct, non-invasive, longitudinal measurement of brain lithium. • Brain lithium was detected after administration of very low dose lithium orotate. • Brain 7Li-signal was stable between two- and four-weeks of supplementation. • A subset of individuals showed notably higher brain 7Li-signal intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suicide remains a significant public health concern worldwide. Ecological studies reported decreased suicide rates with higher levels of trace lithium levels in drinking water, leading to suggestions of adding lithium to drinking water as a preventative anti-suicide strategy. However, the evidence remains inconclusive, and thus more data are needed. This pre-registered study analyzed the association between lithium concentrations in drinking water and suicide rates across 1043 municipalities in Switzerland between 1981 and 2021. We used bivariate correlation analysis, ordinary regression models, and spatial regression models, while accounting for potential confounding variables. There were no significant associations between lithium levels in drinking water and suicide rates, as determined by correlation analysis (r = −0.03, 95 % CI -0.09–0.03, p = 0.33), and by multivariable ordinary and spatial regression models. The correlation between levels of lithium in tap water and the serum of individuals is unknown and ecological studies are inherently limited to establish a causal association. The null finding in our study adds to the ongoing debate on the effectiveness of trace lithium in drinking water as a public health intervention for suicide prevention, indicating that calls for lithium supplementation are still premature. These findings highlight the need for further research with transparent and replicable methodologies to clarify the potential role of lithium in suicide prevention. • Multiple studies found lower suicide rates in regions with more lithium in tap water. • Biases may have affected these findings and rigorous replication is needed. • We present results of a large, pre-registered study from 1043 Swiss communities. • Lithium levels in tap water were not associated with suicide rates in our study. • More such studies could help clarifying the actual effect of lithium on suicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been suggested that a 30–50 % lithium dose reduction or lithium discontinuation 24-48 h before delivery could minimize neonatal complications. We investigated the maternal lithemia changes around delivery after a brief discontinuation, the placental transfer of lithium at delivery, and the association between neonatal lithemia at delivery and acute neonatal outcomes. A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted in a teaching hospital (November/2006-December/2018). Data was extracted from the medical records. We included psychopathologically stable women, with a singleton pregnancy, treated with lithium in late pregnancy, with at least one maternal and neonatal lithemia at delivery. Lithium was discontinued 12 h before a scheduled caesarean section or induction, or at admission day to hospital birth; and restarted 6-12 h post. Sixty-six mother-infant pairs were included, and 226 maternal and 66 neonatal lithemias were obtained. We found slight maternal lithemia fluctuations close to 0.20 mEq/L, and early postpartum relapse of 6 %. The mean (SD) umbilical cord/mother intrapartum lithemia ratio was 1.10 (0.17). Fifty-six percent of neonates presented transient acute complications. Neonatal hypotonia was the most frequent outcome (N = 15). Mean lithemia were 0.178 mEq/L higher in those with hypotonia than in those without (p = 0.028). It is a retrospective cohort of a moderate sample size of healthy uncomplicated pregnancies and results cannot be generalized to all pregnant treated with lithium. Lithium transfers completely across the placenta. A brief predelivery lithium discontinuation was associated with slight maternal lithemia fluctuations. Neonates exposed intrautero to lithium present frequent but transient acute effects. • Lithium completely equilibrates across the placenta, both in mono and polytherapy • A brief peripartum discontinuation is associated with slight lithemia fluctuations. • Neonatal lithemia at delivery is associated with transient neonatal complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our rigorous investigation, employing first principles-based dispersion-corrected density functional theory (DFT-D) and second-order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory (MP2) methods, has illuminated the remarkable promise of lithium-decorated organic linkers of Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs). We have computationally designed 36 complexes with nine pure linkers of COFs and Li-decorated linkers, and these designed linkers show the physisorption of H 2 molecules. The synergy of Li atoms with these linkers shows a Li binding energy about −0.5 to −1.3 eV, which enables each Li atom to capture two H 2 molecules with an average ΔH per H 2 molecule about -0.02 to -0.20 eV. We computationally obtained a significant weight percentage (wt.%) of H 2 uptake, with a maximum of wt.% for the molecular structure of Linker-3 using DFT-D methods. The true highlight of our work is the average binding enthalpy of -0.20 eV per H 2 molecule when coupled with Li-decorated Linker-5. Our study unveils the intricate interplay between dispersion and electrostatic forces that play a dominant role in binding enthalpy. We performed GCMC simulations in our designed pure COFs to study the H 2 uptake at 77 K and 298 K at varying low and high-pressure ranges. COF-IITI appears more effective in absolute H 2 loading than the Pristine COF because of its larger surface area. This groundbreaking research is essential for realizing efficient, secure, compact, and cost-effective hydrogen storage materials. It aligns perfectly with the ambitious goals set by the U.S. Department of Energy, propelling us closer to a sustainable energy future. [Display omitted] • A Li-decoration technique is proposed to enhance H 2 uptake in COF's linkers. • The Li binding energy for COF's linkers lies in the range of -0.5 to -1.3 eV. • The H 2 binding enthalpy in Li-decorated linkers satisfies the physisorption. • Dispersion and electrostatic interactions play a major role in binding enthalpy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pressureless sintering process is essential to densify near net shaped parts with good shape fidelity. In this work, the impact of the particle size distribution and crystallization state on the processing and properties of final sintered multicomponent lithium disilicate (SiO 2 -Li 2 O-K 2 O-P 2 O 5 -Al 2 O 3 -ZnO) was evaluated. Higher densification was achieved by pressureless sintering at lower temperatures for samples prepared with fine glass-based powders (825 °C; ≈96%) rather than coarse crystallized powders (975 °C; 92.9%). However, samples based on fine powders presented a microstructure characterized by low aspect ratio crystals, while those based on coarse powders presented needle-like crystals with high aspect ratio. Best mechanical properties were found in samples prepared with coarse glass powders (relative density≈ 95.1%; Vickers Hardness≈ 5.2 GPa; indentation fracture toughness≈ 2 MPam0.5; flexural strength≈ 317 MPa) sintered at 875 °C-1 h. These results can provide valuable orientations for the post-processing of lithium disilicate glass-ceramics prepared by additive manufacturing techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The therapeutic response to lithium in patients with bipolar disorder is highly variable and has a polygenic basis. Genome-wide association studies investigating lithium response have identified several relevant loci, though the precise mechanisms driving these associations are poorly understood. We aimed to prioritise the most likely effector gene and determine the mechanisms underlying an intergenic lithium response locus on chromosome 21 identified by the International Consortium on Lithium Genetics (ConLi+Gen). We conducted in-silico functional analyses by integrating and synthesising information from several publicly available functional genetic datasets and databases including the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project and HaploReg. The findings from this study highlighted TMPRSS15 as the most likely effector gene at the ConLi+Gen lithium response locus. TMPRSS15 encodes enterokinase, a gastrointestinal enzyme responsible for converting trypsinogen into trypsin and thus aiding digestion. Convergent findings from gene-based lookups in human and mouse databases as well as co-expression network analyses of small intestinal RNA-seq data (GTEx) implicated TMPRSS15 in the regulation of intestinal nutrient absorption, including ions like sodium and potassium, which may extend to lithium. Although the findings from this study indicated that TMPRSS15 was the most likely effector gene at the ConLi+Gen lithium response locus, the evidence was circumstantial. Thus, the conclusions from this study need to be validated in appropriately designed wet-lab studies. The findings from this study are consistent with a model whereby TMPRSS15 impacts the efficacy of lithium treatment in patients with bipolar disorder by modulating intestinal lithium absorption. • TMPRSS15 is a novel regulator of lithium response in patients with bipolar disorder. • It is the most likely effector gene at a known lithium response locus. • The gene encodes enterokinase (ENTK), a key modulator of intestinal absorption. • ENTK likely impacts lithium response through the modulation of lithium absorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Loss of slab-derived volatile and fluid-mobile elements (FME) through the forearc may represent a large, unaccounted for flux out of convergent margins. To address volatile recycling through the forearc and potential changes in fluid source from the progressively dehydrating subducting slab, we collected water samples from 44 different cold and thermal (>40 °C) springs on a transect across the outer forearc (∼20–40 km to the subducting slab), forearc (∼40–80 km to the slab), and arc (∼80–120 km to the slab) in Costa Rica. We focused on the heavy halogens (Cl, Br, I), as well as B and Li, given their high fluid mobility and thus limited potential for modification by subsequent fluid-rock interaction. Chlorine, boron, and lithium stable isotope ratios show dramatic ranges from −1.7 to +1.0 ‰ (n = 43), −12.0 to +30.9 ‰ (n = 35), and −2.4 to + 27.5 ‰ (n = 38), respectively, with distinct changes across the transect consistent with a sedimentary pore fluid component in the outer forearc, fluids sourced from dehydration of the slab (sediment and altered oceanic crust) in the forearc, and minimal slab input near the arc. Variations in elemental ratios (Br/Cl, I/Cl, B/Cl, Li/B) across the transect are also largely consistent with evolving FME sources during subduction. Boron isotope ratios in some higher-temperature fluids are modified due to phase separation, whereas, lithium and chlorine isotope ratios are minimally modified. Springs located in the outer forearc along a major fault (Falla Morote) deviate from the consistent across-arc trend and record almost the full range of observed isotopic values. This extreme range in values along the fault likely represents a combination of adsorption/desorption effects, weathering, and mixing with crustal fluids. Mass balance calculations show that up to ∼ 70 % of Cl, ∼50 % of Br, ∼30 % of B, ∼15 % of I, and minimal Li may be recycled through the outer forearc and forearc springs of the Costa Rican margin, therefore fluid emission via springs in global forearc regions are a potentially significant output for FME at convergent margins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) play a crucial role in solid-state lithium metal batteries, with covalent organic frameworks (COFs) emerging as a promising materials class for SSE applications. In this study, a series of Tp-COFs materials were successfully synthesized through a solvothermal approach. Subsequently, these COFs underwent a coating process involving lithium salt and polyvinylidene fluoride film to yield TpMa, TpDa, and TpDa-Li SSEs. The materials subjected to characterization for their ionic conductivity, Li+ transfer number, electrochemical window, and charge-discharge cycle performance. Particularly noteworthy was the exceptional performance of TpDa-Li, exhibiting an ionic conductivity of 9.25 × 10−4 S cm−1, a Li+ transfer number of 0.89, an electrochemical window spanning 1.0–4.4 V, and a capacity retention rate of 77% after 300 cycles at 1 C rate and 83% after 300 cycles at 0.2 C rate. • TpMa, TpDa, and TpDa-Li COFs compounds were successfully synthesized through a solvothermal method. • TpPa-Li was applied to all-solid-state lithium metal batteries. • TpDa-Li solid electrolyte shows a high ionic conductivity of 9.25 × 10−4 S cm−1, a Li+ transfer number of 0.89. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bipolar disorder is associated with increased rates of many physical disorders, but the effects of medication are unclear. We systematically investigated the associations between sustained use of first line maintenance agents, lithium versus lamotrigine and valproate, and the risk of physical disorders using a nation-wide population-based target trial emulation covering the entire 5.9 million inhabitants in Denmark. We identified two cohorts. Cohort 1: patients with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder prior to first purchase (N = 12.607). Cohort 2: all 156.678 adult patients who had their first ever purchase (since 1995) of either lithium, lamotrigine or valproate between 1997 and 2021 regardless of diagnosis. Main analyses investigated the effect of sustained exposure defined as exposure for all consecutive 6-months periods during a 10-year follow-up. Outcomes included a diagnosis of incident stroke, arteriosclerosis, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, diabetes mellitus, myxedema, osteoporosis, dementia, Parkinson's disease, chronic kidney disease and cancer (including subtypes). In both Cohorts 1 and 2, there were no systematic statistically significant differences in associations between sustained use of lithium versus lamotrigine and valproate, respectively, and any physical disorder, including subtypes of disorders, except myxedema, for which exposure to lithium increased the absolute risk of myxedema with 7–10 % compared with lamotrigine or valproate. In conclusion, these analyses emulating a target trial of "real world" observational register-based data show that lithium does not increase the risk of developing any kind of physical disorders, except myxedema, which may be a result of detection bias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garnet-based Li 7 La 3 Zr 2 O 12 is a promising solid-state electrolyte for lithium (Li) metal batteries owing to its broad electrochemical window and fantastic stability against Li anode. However, pure Li 7 La 3 Zr 2 O 12 crystallizes in a tetragonal phase resulting in poor Li-ion conductivity. In this study, the conductive cubic phase was successfully stabilized by substituting Zr4+ (0.72 Å) with a like-valent and larger-sized Ce4+ (0.87 Å) using a ball-milling and a two-step sintering process. The resulting compound, Li 7 La 3 Zr 1.75 Ce 0.25 O 12 , exhibited significantly enhanced Li-ion conductivity (∼2.2 × 10−4 S cm−1), one order of magnitude higher than the un-doped sample (∼2.3 × 10−5 S cm−1), with negligible electronic conduction (∼10−11 S cm−1). Consequently, symmetric cell Li| Li 7 La 3 Zr 1.75 Ce 0.25 O 12 |Li demonstrated remarkable cycling performance, maintaining stable polarization over 600 h at 25 °C and a current density of 70 μA cm−2. Thus, Ce-doped Li 7 La 3 Zr 2 O 12 emerges as an innovative solid electrolyte for the next generation all-solid-state Li metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immune imbalances are associated with the pathogenesis and pharmacological efficacy of bipolar disorder (BD). The underlying mechanisms remain largely obscure but may involve immunometabolic dysfunctions of T-lymphocytes. We investigated if inflammatory cytokines and the immunometabolic function of T-lymphocytes, including frequencies of subsets, mitochondrial mass (MM), and low mitochondrial membrane potential (MMPLow) differed between BD patients (n = 47) and healthy controls (HC, n = 43). During lithium treatment of hospitalized patients (n = 33), the association between weekly T-lymphocyte immune metabolism and clinical symptoms was analyzed, and preliminary explorations on possible mechanisms were conducted. In comparison to HC, BD patients predominantly showed a trend toward CD4+ naïve T (Tn) activation and exhibited mitochondrial metabolic disturbances such as decreased MM and increased MMPLow. Lower CD4+ Tn-MM correlated with elevated IL-6, IL-8, and decreased IL-17 A in BD patients. With lithium treatment effective, MM of CD4+ T/Tn was negatively correlated with depression score HAMD. When lithium intolerance was present, MM of CD4+ T/Tn was positively correlated with depression score HAMD and mania score BRMS. Lithium does not mediate through the inositol depletion hypothesis, but the mRNA level of IMPA2 in peripheral blood is associated with mitochondrial function in CD8+ T cells. The cross-sectional design and short-term follow-up meant that we could not directly examine the causality of BD and immune dysregulation. The altered metabolism of CD4+ Tn was strongly associated with remodeling of the inflammatory landscape in BD patients and can also be used to reflect the short-term therapeutic effects of lithium. [Display omitted] • Activation of circulating CD4+ naive T cells is observed in BD patients. • Lower mitochondrial mass of CD4+ naive T is a pivotal mediator mediating immune dysfunction in BD patients. • Enhancing the mitochondrial mass of naïve T-cells might be a potential therapeutic target for BD. • The emergence of drug intolerance disrupts the immunomodulatory effects of lithium on T-cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Active lithium is directed extracted from retired lithium-ion batteries with optimized conditions utilizing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and nonpolar ether solvent. Using the recovered lithium solution, LiFePO 4 with performance on par with commercial materials are synthesized. This recycling approach shows excellent economic benefits and practical prospects. [Display omitted] The flourishing expansion of the lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) market has led to a surge in the demand for lithium resources. Developing efficient recycling technologies for imminent large-scale retired LIBs can significantly facilitate the sustainable utilization of lithium resources. Here, we successfully extract active lithium from spent LIBs through a simple, efficient, and low-energy-consumption chemical leaching process at room temperature, using a solution comprised of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and ether solvents. The mechanism of lithium extraction is elucidated by clarifying the relationship between the redox potential and extraction efficiency. More importantly, the reclaimed active lithium is directly employed to fabricate LiFePO 4 cathode with performance comparable to commercial materials. When implemented in 56 Ah prismatic cells, the cells deliver stable cycling properties with a capacity retention of ∼90% after 1200 cycles. Compared with the other strategies, this technical approach shows superior economic benefits and practical promise. It is anticipated that this method may redefine the recycling paradigm for retired LIBs and drive the sustainable development of industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influences of various doping elements on the corrosion behavior and possible failure mechanism of aluminum nitride ceramic in lithium had been investigated using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope techniques. The results showed that different doping element could produce obvious effects on the corrosion behavior of aluminum nitride. In comparison with yttrium doping, better corrosion resistance in lithium could be achieved in zirconia doped aluminum nitride. This was attributed to a certain degree of compatibility of both the doped zirconium and its related compounds with lithium. Based on these observations, a corrosion resistance mechanism model was proposed, in which lithium was supposed to be hindered from diffusing into aluminum nitride by a network structure with the impurities, ie. ZrN and Al 2.85 N 0.5 O 3.5 , as the nodes. The corrosion resistance could also be improved effectively by fine and homogeneous grains due to the influences of grain sizes on the node number in network structure. Further studies on the corrosion behavior in embedded liquid lithium implied that the severity of corrosion had close relations with the sample surface quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Constructing artificial solid electrolyte interfaces (SEIs) to shape dendrite-free lithium (Li)-metal anodes remains challenges. Herein, we designed dynamic physical network (DPN) with abundant lithiophilic/anionphilic groups through tripartite hydrogen bonds (H-bonds), serving as artificial SEIs in high-loading NCM811-Li metal batteries. The formation and dissociation of DPN endowed by tripartite H-bonds under tension release during Li plating/stripping cycling skillfully balance the contradiction between mechanical robustness and deformability. Li O bonds between lithiophilic sites and Li ions, and extra H-bonds between hydroxyl and electrolyte anions, endow DPN with functions of homogenizing Li-ion flux and accelerating its desolvation, synergistically achieving the uniform Li-ion deposition and weakening the charge shielding. The artificial SEI enhanced Li-anode (DPN@Li) withstood repeated Li ions plating/stripping processes for over 1000 h, which is 5 times longer than pure Li-anodes, and maintained low overpotential at a high current density of 10 mA cm−2. DPN@Li-based NCM811 full cells deliver high specific capacities and outstanding cycle life over 3000 cycles. Further, DPN@Li possesses excellent electrochemical performance in the high active material loading (7.84 mg cm−2) and foldable pouch cells. This work provides a conceptual framework of DPN constructed by multiple weak intermolecular interaction for artificial SEI to shape anode performance, and achieves the idea with a facile manner and simple chemical substances to promote practical applications of LMBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify the risks and benefits of clozapine‑lithium co-prescription. Articles published in English or French were identified with a MEDLINE, Web of Sciences and PsycINFO search, from inception through January 2023, using the term 'clozapine' in combination with 'lithium'. Data were synthesized narratively. Of the 67 articles included in the review, more than half (n = 38, 56.7 %) were focused on clozapine-related blood dyscrasia. A body of evidence drawn from case reports and retrospective chart studies highlights the potential benefits of lithium prescription for clozapine-related neutropenia, since this strategy may avoid clozapine discontinuation or allow its rechallenge. The most documented adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with clozapine‑lithium co-prescription are neurotoxic events, which may be prevented or detected early by clinical, electroencephalographic and therapeutic drug monitoring. Causality assessment cannot be established for other reported ADRs occurring during clozapine‑lithium co-prescription. The benefits of the combined prescription on psychotic and/or mood symptoms are poorly documented. The risks and benefits of clozapine‑lithium co-prescription require further exploration as the combination might significantly contribute to reducing underprescription or premature discontinuation of clozapine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Green recycling process of cathode materials from LIBs using supercritical CO 2. • scCO 2 as a green solvent for critical metal extraction at 60 °C and 250 bar. • Poly(VBPDA- co -FDA) copolymer as leaching agent, macro-ligand, and extracting agent. • H 2 O 2 and ethanol as reducing agent for Co2+ complexation in scCO 2 from LiCo(III)O 2. • Recovery yield up to 75 % of Co and Li from LiCoO 2. Supercritical CO 2 (scCO 2) extraction assisted by complexing copolymers is a promising process to recover valuable metals from lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). CO 2 , in addition to being non-toxic, abundant and non-flammable, allows an easy separation of metal-complexes from the extraction medium by depressurization, limiting the wastewater production. In this study, CO 2 -philic gradient copolymers bearing phosphonic diacid complexing groups (poly(vinylbenzylphosphonic diacid- co -1,1,2,2-tetrahydroperfluorodecylacrylate), p(VBPDA- co -FDA)) were synthesized for the extraction of lithium and cobalt from LiCoO 2 cathode material. Notably, the copolymer was able to play the triple role of leaching agent, complexing agent and surfactant. The proof of concept for leaching, complexation and extraction was achieved, using two different extraction systems. A first extraction system used aqueous hydrogen peroxide as reducing agent while it was replaced by ethanol in the second extraction system. The scCO 2 extraction conditions such as extraction time, temperature, functional copolymer concentration, and the presence of additives were optimized to improve the metals extraction from LiCoO 2 cathode material, leading to an extraction efficiency of Li and Co up to ca. 75 % at 60 °C and 250 bar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Synthesis and electrochemical study of novel trifluorinated diethers, namely, α-methoxy-ω-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)- alkanes, as potential candidates for new-generation electrolyte solvents for lithium-metal batteries are presented. The trifluoro diethers were tested in cell configurations implying cathodes with high nickel content and revealed Coulombic efficiencies exceeding 99.9% and specific discharge capacity retention up to 99% over 55 cycles for potentials up to 4.5 V. This study opens up new prospects in targeted design of organic ether molecules as lithium-metal batteries electrolyte components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkali-aluminosilicate glass and glass-ceramics can be effectively strengthened by ion-exchange if compression is introduced into the surface, which have been widely used in many electronic devices, especially for mobile phones. In this work, the transparent lithium aluminosilicate glass-ceramics with eucryptite crystalline phase were ion-exchanged in the mixed x NaNO 3 + (100－ x) KNO 3 (wt %, x = 60, 70, 80, 90, 100) molten salts at 420 °C for 4 h. With the increase of NaNO 3 concentration in the molten salts from 60 to 100 wt %, the depth of stress layer increase from 98 to 104 μm, and the surface compressive stress increase to the maximum ∼500 MPa at x = 80 and then decrease. In addition, there is also a K+-rich layer observed with the depth of ∼25 μm. The ion-exchange takes place in both crystalline and residual glassy phases, and thus leads to the microstructural modifications, including the amorphization of eucryptite and the presence of lithium phosphate. Upon ion-exchange, the Vickers hardness of glass-ceramics increase from 7.03 GPa to the maximum ∼7.62 GPa (x = 80), and the bending strength from 198 MPa to the maximum ∼510 MPa (x = 90). The improvement in mechanical properties is mainly related to the generation of surface compressive stress layer. Meanwhile, the amorphization and transformation of crystalline phase during the ion-exchange process are probably conductive for the reduction of surface cracks and defects, leading to the enhancement of mechanical properties, especially for the bending strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The viologen component with redox activity in the ionic CMP serves as an electronic pump for donating electrons to and accepting electrons from sulfur species, which can facilitate the conversion of both solid lithium sulfide and soluble polysulfides. [Display omitted] The commercialization of lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries has been hindered by the shuttle effect and sluggish redox kinetics of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs). Herein, we reported a viologen-based ionic conjugated mesoporous polymer (TpV-Cl), which acts as the cathode host for modifying Li-S batteries. The viologen component serves as a reversible electron conveyer, leading to a comprehensive enhancement in the adsorption of polysulfides and improved conversion rate of polysulfides during the electrochemical process. As a result, the S@TpV-PS cathode exhibits outstanding cycling performance, achieving 300 cycles at 2.0 C (1 C = 1675 mA g−1) with low decay rate of 0.032% per cycle. Even at a high sulfur loading of 4.0 mg cm−2, S@TpV-PS shows excellent cycling stability with a Coulombic efficiency of up to 98%. These results highlight the significant potential of S@TpV-PS in developing high-performance Li-S batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mnemonic discrimination (MD), the ability to discriminate new stimuli from similar memories, putatively involves dentate gyrus pattern separation. Since lithium may normalize dentate gyrus functioning in lithium-responsive bipolar disorder (BD), we hypothesized that lithium treatment would be associated with better MD in lithium-responsive BD patients. BD patients (N = 69; N Responders = 16 [23 %]) performed the Continuous Visual Memory Test (CVMT), which requires discriminating between novel and previously seen images. Before testing, all patients had prophylactic lithium responsiveness assessed over ≥1 year of therapy (with the Alda Score), although only thirty-eight patients were actively prescribed lithium at time of testing (55 %; 12/16 responders, 26/53 nonresponders). We then used computational modelling to extract patient-specific MD indices. Linear models were used to test how (A) lithium treatment, (B) lithium responsiveness via the continuous Alda score, and (C) their interaction, affected MD. Superior MD performance was associated with lithium treatment exclusively in lithium-responsive patients (Lithium x AldaScore β = 0.257 [SE 0.078], p = 0.002). Consistent with prior literature, increased age was associated with worse MD (β = −0.03 [SE 0.01], p = 0.005). Secondary pilot analysis of retrospectively collected data in a cross-sectional design limits generalizability. Our study is the first to examine MD performance in BD. Lithium is associated with better MD performance only in lithium responders, potentially due to lithium's effects on dentate gyrus granule cell excitability. Our results may influence the development of behavioural probes for dentate gyrus neuronal hyperexcitability in BD. • This is the first study of mnemonic discrimination (MD) in bipolar disorder (BD). • Lithium may improve MD exclusively BD patients who are lithium responders. • MD may be a useful probe of BD-related dentate gyrus abnormalities. • Future studies with prospective within-subjects designs are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significant progress had been made in various fields with transition metal oxide electrode materials, particularly in battery materials where structural control played a crucial role in enhancing their electrochemical properties. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential of a raspberry-like hierarchical core-shell structure derived from Co–Zn MOF as anode materials by varying concentration of reaction solution in hydrothermal method. The hierarchical raspberry-like hollow shell structure was beneficial to expose more active sites and reduced the diffusion distance of Li+ to the internal electroactive sites, improving the overall electrical conductivity of the electrode by full contact with carbon. Carbon nanotubes were incorporated into more suitable core-shell structure. They were uniformly coated the hollow sphere and filled inside of that to form a carbon skeleton. Specifically, the carbon nanotubes inside of the hollow sphere supported the shell not to collapse. This mitigated volume expansion during the cycling process, maintains structure stability, and allowed for rearrangement to occur during cycling to achieve a high specific capacity. Furthermore, the carbon nanotubes inside and outside of the hollow sphere created a high-density interface that enhanced interfacial polarisation and accelerated the rate of Li+ passage during cycling. These effects had resulted in an improvement in the material's performance. It is noteworthy that the specific capacity attains 1050 mAh g-1 when exposed to a current density of 0.2 A g-1. Notably, even after conducting 500 cycles at a current density of 0.5 A g-1, the specific capacity remains stable at 652 mAh g-1. [Display omitted] • Graded Co–Zn MOF with different morphological core-shell structures were synthesised by varying the solvent. • The raspberry-like core-shell structure allows more space inside the material, providing more active sites for Li+. • The bimetallic synergistic effect results in an increased number of crystal defects and vacancies. • Carbon nanotubes filled the core-shell structure to form a carbon skeleton and undergo rearrangement during cycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is the most prevalent psychiatric disorder worldwide. Although numerous antidepressant treatments are available, there is a serious clinical concern due to their severe side effects and the fact that some depressed patients are resistant to them. Lithium is the drug of choice for bipolar depression and has been used as adjunct therapy with other groups of antidepressants. The present study aims to investigate the effect of lithium augmentation with cerebrolysin on the neurochemical, behavioral and histopathological alterations induced in the reserpine model of depression. The animals were divided into control and reserpine-induced model of depression. The model animals were further divided into rat model of depression, rat model treated with lithium, rat model treated with cerebrolysin and rat model treated with a combination of lithium and cerebrolysin. Treatment with lithium, cerebrolysin, or their combination alleviated most of the changes in behavior, oxidative stress parameters, acetylcholinesterase and monoamines in the cortex and hippocampus of the reserpine-induced model of depression. It also improved the alterations in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and histopathology induced by reserpine. The augmentation of lithium with cerebrolysin showed a clear beneficial effect in the present model of depression suggesting the use of cerebrolysin as an adjuvant in antidepressant treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yttria-stabilised zirconia (YSZ) materials are of great interest due to their mechanical properties, chemical inertness, low thermal conductivity and high ionic conductivity. However, a high temperature is required to consolidate the YSZ, while homogeneity problems may arise. This study proposes a modified wet chemical method for commercial YSZ sintering started from a scalable colloidal solution containing yttrium and lithium in an aqueous medium. This homogeneous mixture, adjusted by pH and Li/Y content, transforms into intermediate phases that play a key role as "cement" linking YSZ particles at low sintering temperatures. The originality consists of the use of the citric acid enabling the formation of either porous or dense microstructure depending on processing conditions. A complete follow-up of the transformation of compounds throughout the process, from liquid phase to cement, is proposed and enables us to propose the consolidation mechanism that will be useful for further optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tungstate-based materials as lithium-ion battery anodes have drawn multitudinous attention owing to their great theoretical capacity and typical multielectron transfer process. Nevertheless, their slow electrochemical reaction kinetics and big volume variation often trigger poor lithium storage properties. Herein, novel ZnWO 4 /ZnO@C hierarchical nanoflakes are engineered via a facile W-based metal-organic framework (W-MOF) template method. The ZnWO 4 /ZnO@C nanoflakes with a rectangular shape and high porosity are constructed by carbon-coated nanocrystal subunits. The unique composition and microstructure of ZnWO 4 /ZnO@C can shorten the pathway for Li+/electron transport, expand the contact with the electrolyte, improve the electrical conductivity, and fortify structural stability. Consequently, the ZnWO 4 /ZnO@C material as LIBs anodes delivers a high reversible capacity of 734 mAh g-1 after 150 cycles at 200 mA g-1, decent rate capability (426 mAh g-1 at 1000 mA g-1), and outstanding cyclic stability (93.8 % capacity retention over 350 cycles at 500 mA g-1). The in-situ XRD combined with ex-situ XPS and FT-IR was performed to elucidate the lithium storage mechanism of ZnWO 4 /ZnO@C. This work presents a simple and efficient approach for the synthesis of novel tungstate-based anodes for lithium-ion battery applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mining industry plays a pivotal role in the global transition towards clean energy, driven by the escalating demand for critical elements like lithium. However, this growth raises profound environmental concerns, particularly regarding land use, global warming potential, water consumption, acidification, eutrophication, and toxicity. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) has historically relied on approximations and theoretical methods, resulting in systematic underestimations of these impacts. This study begins to address part of this discrepancy by leveraging remote sensing technologies to gather empirical evidence. Focusing on the Greenbushes mining site in Australia, a comprehensive investigation was conducted to quantitatively evaluate the direct land use impact from satellite imagery over the life of the project. Comparative analyses were performed against various mid-point Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA) methods. The findings unequivocally reveal a substantial under-reporting of the land use impact, highlighting the critical need for more accurate assessments in the context of mining activities. This research underscores the importance of empirical data in refining our understanding of the environmental footprint associated with mining operations, particularly in the critical context of clean energy transition. The study emphasises the imperative to reevaluate and adjust existing approaches to accurately account for the full scope of environmental impacts associated with mining operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adaptation and marginal integrity of computer-aided designed and computer-aided manufactured (CAD/CAM) crowns after exposure to thermal aging need to be investigated. The present in-vitro study was designed to investigate the marginal integrity of CAD/CAM fabricated crowns cemented on extracted teeth after thermocycling aging. Twenty-six newly extracted human premolars were prepared for full-coverage CAD/CAM crowns and were divided into two groups (leucite-reinforced glass-ceramics and lithium disilicate glass-ceramics). Both crowns' groups were cemented using dual curing resin cement. All specimen margins were measured for marginal integrity using an imaging system 24 h post cementation; then after 1, 3, and 5 estimated clinical years (10,000, 30,000, and 50,000 thermocycles). Two-way ANOVA analysis were used to determine whether the mean value difference is significantly different (ɑ = 0.05). The average margin gaps recorded for leucite-reinforced glass-ceramic crowns were: 82.61 μm initial, and 91.02 μm after 5 estimated clinical year). For the lithium disilicate glass-ceramic crowns, the average margin gaps recorded were: 100.01 μm initial, and 120.21 μm after 5 estimated clinical year. During all measuring intervals, the leucite-reinforced glass-ceramic crown group had a lower marginal discrepancy. No statistically significant difference between the two groups was recorded. After being subjected to thermocycling, both CAD/CAM ceramic crowns, exhibited an increase in their marginal discrepancy; the difference was within the accepted clinical range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the high theoretical capacity, low density, and low electrochemical reaction potential of lithium metal, it is utilised as a negative electrode material in batteries, signifying its substantial potential for next-generation energy storage systems. However, the generation of lithium-metal dendrites diminishes battery life and compromises safety, representing a significant challenge in lithium-metal battery technology. This study demonstrates that a Cu-based metal–organic framework–aramid cellulose–MXene (CuMOF–ANFs–MXene) composite separator, with its enlarged specific surface area and enhanced pore structure, helps impede the formation of lithium dendrites. Notably, the Li–Cu battery with the CuMOF–ANF–MXene separator exhibits a discharge capacity retention rate of ∼98.8% after 400 cycles at 1 mA cm−2. Furthermore, Li–Li batteries employing the same separator can maintain low hysteresis for 2000 h at this current density. These findings illustrate that the CuMOF–ANFs–MXene composite separator not only inhibits lithium dendrite formation but also increases the cycle stability and cycle life of the battery. The three-dimensional porous mesh structure of the CuMOF–ANFs–MXene separator offers a novel avenue for the practical application of lithium-metal batteries. • Three-dimensional porous mesh separator is an effective means to inhibit the growth of lithium dendrites. • Aramid cellulose and MXene compounds contribute to enhancing the mechanical properties of CuMOF separators. • The new CuMOF-ANFs-MXene separator can prolong battery life and enhance battery cycling stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The monitoring of acidosis and hypoxia is crucial because both factors promote cancer progression and impact the efficacy of anti-cancer treatments. A phosphonated tetrathiatriarylmethyl (pTAM) has been previously described to monitor both parameters simultaneously, but the sensitivity to tackle subtle changes in oxygenation was limited. Here, we describe an innovative approach combining the pTAM radical and lithium phthalocyanine (LiPc) crystals to provide sensitive simultaneous measurements of extracellular pH (pH e) and pO 2. Both parameters can be measured simultaneously as both EPR spectra do not overlap, with a gain in sensitivity to pO 2 variations by a factor of 10. This procedure was applied to characterize the impact of carbogen breathing in a breast cancer 4T1 model as a proof-of-concept. No significant change in pH e and pO 2 was observed using pTAM alone, while LiPc detected a significant increase in tumor oxygenation. Interestingly, we observed that pTAM systematically overestimated the pO 2 compared to LiPc. In addition, we analyzed the impact of an inhibitor (UK-5099) of the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC) on the tumor microenvironment. In vitro , the exposure of 4T1 cells to UK-5099 for 24 h induced a decrease in pH e and oxygen consumption rate (OCR). In vivo , a significant decrease in tumor pH e was observed in UK-5099-treated mice, while there was no change for mice treated with the vehicle. Despite the change observed in OCR, no significant change in tumor oxygenation was observed after the UK-5099 treatment. This approach is promising for assessing in vivo the effect of treatments targeting tumor metabolism. [Display omitted] • Acidosis and hypoxia are detrimental factors in cancer progression. • Innovative EPR procedure to measure extracellular pH and pO 2 simultaneously. • Using both LiPc with pTAM allows a gain in sensitivity to oxygen variations by a factor of 10. • Proof-of-concept studies using carbogen breathing and MPC inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disturbances in sleep and circadian rhythmicity (CR) are frequent in individuals with bipolar disorders (BD). Very few studies explored the associations between psychotropic medications and these disturbances in euthymic BD. Therefore, we aimed at exploring the associations between several classes of medications (lithium, sedative/non-sedative Atypical Antipsychotics (AAP), anticonvulsants, antidepressants, benzodiazepines) and sleep disturbances and CR dimensions in a sample of euthymic individuals with BD. We included euthymic adults with BD type 1 or 2 assessed with 21 days of actimetry. We used a Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of sleep and CR estimates to generate dimensions to be studied in association with the current use of psychotropic medications, with adjustments for potential confounding factors. We included individuals with BD-1 (n = 116) or BD-2 (n = 37). The PCA led to four dimensions of sleep and CR estimates. Benzodiazepines were associated with better sleep quality (p corrected = 0.032). Aripiprazole was associated with less robust CR (p corrected = 0.016), but with earlier peak of activity patterns (p corrected = 0.020). Sedative AAPs were associated with better sleep quality, which was no longer significant after correction. We found no association between lithium or anticonvulsants and CR. The cross-sectional design and the possible non-representativeness of the sample were limitations of our study. In euthymic individuals with BD, benzodiazepines may have a positive effect on sleep quality, while aripiprazole may have mixed effects on CR (less robust but with earlier peak of activity patterns). No association with lithium or anticonvulsants observed. Further studies are warranted to replicate and extend these results. • Few studies explored associations between psychotropic drugs and actigraphy in BD. • Benzodiazepines are associated with higher sleep quality. • Non-sedative atypical antipsychotics are associated with less robust CR but earlier peak of activity patterns. • No association between lithium or anticonvulsants and circadian rhythms was observed. • Cross-sectional design and heterogeneity of treatment are limitations in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featuring of high theoretical capacity, non-toxic, low-cost, and environmental benignity, metal silicates attract great attention as viable alternative anodes of lithium-ion battery. But, they show serious electrochemical irreversibility during cycle due to large volume variation and low conductivity. Herein, a novel and facile method is developed to synthesize a quasi-2 dimensional (2D) amorphous MnSiO 3 /C composite (A-MnSiO 3 @C), consisting of ultra-thin conformal carbon coated amorphous MnSiO 3 quasi-nanosheets. Therefore, the A-MnSiO 3 @C innovatively integrates the structural characteristics of amorphous structure, 2D nanostructure and ultra-thin conformal carbon coating through a simple process. The structure-property correlations of the A-MnSiO 3 @C during lithium storage have been expounded systematically. The findings indicate that these structural characteristics offer A-MnSiO 3 @C enhanced electrical conductivity, improved Li+ transport kinetics, high capacitive contribution and good structural stability during cycle, and hence alleviate the issues MnSiO 3 suffered from. As a result, the A-MnSiO 3 @C demonstrates outstanding lithium storage properties such as high capacity, good rate capability and long cycle durability, with 511.2 and 416.5 mAh g−1 after 400 and 600 cycles at 200 and 1000 mA g−1, respectively. Finally, this work offers a constructive reference for improving electrochemical performance of the other promising metal silicate anodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold sintering process is one of the low-environmental load technologies that are attracting attention in recent years. Herein, KOH/NaOH solutions with 5–20 M were utilized to aid densification of cold sintered lithium disilicate (Li 2 O·2SiO 2 or Li 2 Si 2 O 5 , written as LD) glass materials, and roles of K+/Na+ ions in densification process were investigated. Under the sintering conditions of 300 MPa, 180 °C and 30 min, delayed densifications were observed for cold sintered LD glass samples prepared with KOH solutions than those prepared with NaOH solutions. The optimized concentration was 20 M for KOH solutions used to aid densification, and sharply reduced to 10 M for NaOH solutions. Correspondingly, the highest relative densities and flexural strengths of sintered samples prepared with 20 M KOH and 10 M NaOH solutions were 89.3%, 90.7 MPa and 89.0%, 88.9 MPa, respectively. In comparison with K+ ions ionized from KOH solutions, smaller ionic size and higher concentration gradient made Na+ ions ionized from NaOH solutions more easily diffuse into hydrolyzed silicate structures including K+ ions, and thereby Na+ ions might play better roles in catalyzing hydrolyzation process induced by OH− ions and aiding densification process of cold sintered LD glass materials than K+ ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass-derived carbon materials are widely studied and used in energy storage applications. Unfortunately, the disadvantages such as poor capacity and rate performance limit their development. Heteroatom doping can effectively improve the electrochemical properties of biomass-derived carbon materials. In this work, we designed and prepared environmentally friendly and cost-effective biomass (lotus root)-derived nitrogen-phosphorus (N–P) double-doped porous carbon spheres. When used as an anode material for a lithium-ion battery, the porous carbon spheres exhibited excellent stability performance (a reversible capacity of 739.6 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 A g−1 and 599.16 mAh g−1 after 215 cycles at 0.5 A g−1, respectively) and superior rate performance (a capacity of 187.22 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1) due to the synergy of the heteroatomic doping and the layered porous spherical structure. The novel biomass-derived material based on N–P double-doped porous carbon spheres can serve as a cost-effective option for anode materials of lithium-ion batteries. Besides, an "adsorption-pore filling/intercalation" hybrid mechanism is proposed to understand the possible principle for superior lithium storage performance based on CV, ex-situ Raman and XRD results. [Display omitted] • N–P double-doped biomass porous carbon microspheres (LRNP) were prepared. • LRNP has excellent cycle capacity and rate performance for LIB application. • "Adsorption-pore filling/intercalation" mechanism of LRNP is revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride-salt-cooled high-temperature reactors (FHRs) are a promising reactor class that combines prominent attributes from the Gen-Ⅳ reactors, raising attractive interests of the international community. However, tritium control has been a major challenge in FHRs because of the neutron reactions of lithium. It's necessary to study the transport characteristics of tritium in the fluoride-salt-cooled high-temperature advanced reactor (FuSTAR) and to provide theoretical support for appropriate tritium control measures and safe operation of the FHRs. In this paper, the inclusive transport characteristics of production, graphite adsorption, diffusion, dissolution, and permeation on tritium in the primary loop are analyzed. The mathematical and physical model of the tritium transport phenomenon is established, and an analysis model of tritium transport characteristics is also developed. Then, the tritium transport characteristics in the FuSTAR primary loop are analyzed. The results show that the tritium in the FuSTAR primary loop mainly exists in the form of Diatomic Tritium (T 2), and it's found that Tritium Fluoride (TF) and T 2 are adsorbed by graphite after being generated in the core, and this process reaches saturation in about 150 Effective Full Power Days (EFPDs). It also indicates that almost 48% of tritium penetrates the secondary loop through the heat exchanger, and only about 3.8% of tritium is adsorbed on the core graphite. TF makes the corrosion of the heat exchanger and downcomer more serious. Finally, the safety of tritium transport in FuSTAR is conservatively estimated, with a tritium emission dose of 0.1674 mSv/a. This study can provide a theoretical reference for the structural design, tritium recycling, and radiation protection of FHRs. • A mathematical and physical model of the tritium transport phenomenon in FHR is established. • Tritium mainly exists in the form of T 2 in the primary loop of FuSTAR. • Tritium penetration and corrosion should be focused on the downcomer and PCHE. • The tritium release dose to the environment of FuSTAR is assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Li–Al–O thin films synthesized via the reactive magnetron co-sputtering have the potential to act as solid-state electrolytes in micro-batteries. In this paper, the constant RF power (155 W) and variable DC power (20–50 W) were applied to lithium (Li) and aluminum (Al) metal targets, respectively, in Ar/O 2 atmosphere to produce films with adequate ionic conductivity. The influence of DC sputtering power on the composition, microstructure, band gap energy, ionic conductivity, and dielectric loss of films were studied in detail. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) showed a shift of the Li 1s peak towards higher binding energy with increasing DC power. X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra confirmed the amorphous state for all as-deposited films, while the post-annealed films at 950 °C contain the γ-LiAlO 2 phase. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) images revealed that the increasing DC power had a significant impact on the film morphology, enlarging grain size and increasing surface roughness. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy showed that increasing the DC power increased the Al content. The optical properties were examined by ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy, which indicated that increasing the Al content led to a blue shift of the absorption edge and an increase in the band gap energy (5.40–5.68 eV). Increasing the DC power resulted in an improvement of room-temperature conductivity by two orders of magnitude (∼2.85 × 10−9 S cm−1) and a decrease in the activation energy from 0.54 eV to 0.32 eV. These results suggest that composition and microstructure significantly affect the ionic transport in co-sputtered Li–Al–O films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A low-cost, green, selective electrolysis process for Li recovery from spent LiFePO 4. • High performance LiFePO 4 was synthesised by impurity removal regeneration process. • The electrolysis and regeneration process makes full use of spent LiFePO 4. In this paper, a green, efficient and low-cost process for the selective recovery of lithium from spent LiFePO 4 by anodic electrolysis is proposed. The leaching rates of Li, Fe and P under different conditions were explored and the optimal conditions are obtained. In the optimal conditions, Li, Fe and P leaching rates were 96.31%, 0.06% and 0.62% respectively. The Li/Fe selectivity was over 99.9%. The product obtained is isostructural FePO 4 and retains the original particle morphology. The FePO 4 obtained can be synthesised into LiFePO 4 /C by direct regeneration process or impurity removal regeneration process. The material synthesized by the latter process has a better electrochemical performance, with a discharge specific capacity of 144.5 mAh/g at 1.0C and a capacity retention of 92.0% over 500cycles. The superior performance can be attributed to an impurity removal process that reduced agglomeration and improved particle morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Herb-medicine residue (HMR) is applied as a thermal reducing agent. • 99.6% of the Li is extracted by oxalic acid (OA) leaching after thermal reduction. • HMR thermal reduction and OA leaching are used for synergistic recovery of Li. • The combined process contribute to improve extraction kinetic of Li. • The whole process realizes the one-step treatment of the two wastes. With the increasing demand for lithium resources, the efficient recovery of lithium from spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has become the focus of social attention. Herein, a combined process of reduction roasting of herb-medicine residue (HMR) and oxalic acid (OA) leaching is proposed to improve the recovery efficiency of lithium. Due to the large amount of reducing gas produced by the pyrolysis of herb-medicine residue, the layered structure of LiNi x Co y Mn z O 2 cathode powder can be destroyed at 650℃ for 10 min, and the cathode powder is converted into Li 2 CO 3 , Ni, Co, MnO. Moreover, about 99.6 % of Li in the roasting residue can be selectively extracted by 0.5 mol L−1 oxalic acid for 20 min. Under the combined action of HMR and OA, the extraction efficiency and kinetics of lithium are improved simultaneously. This work achieves synergistic treatment of two types of waste from the perspective of waste management for waste. Meanwhile, it provides an alternative and innovative approach for the difficult problem of low efficiency of lithium recovery from spent LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intravenous racemic ketamine is a promising treatment for treatment-resistant depression. However, its clinical utility compared with intranasal esketamine and the other well-studied conventional pharmacological interventions (i.e., aripiprazole and lithium) as augmentative treatments for treatment-resistant unipolar depression in adults remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to compare the efficacy, tolerability and acceptability of intravenous racemic ketamine with intranasal esketamine, aripiprazole and lithium under such conditions. The Cochrane Library, PubMed, CINHAL and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were systematically searched from their inception to 10 May 2023. Randomised controlled trials evaluating these drugs were included. A random-effects network meta-analysis was also performed. In the primary analysis, all four drugs were significantly more effective than placebo. In addition, intravenous racemic ketamine was significantly more effective and acceptable than intranasal esketamine and aripiprazole. Intravenous racemic ketamine was not significantly different from placebo in tolerability, whereas intranasal esketamine and aripiprazole were significantly less tolerable than placebo. Lithium did not differ significantly from intravenous racemic ketamine in efficacy, tolerability and acceptability. The sample size of patients treated with intravenous racemic ketamine was small. Intravenous racemic ketamine may be a better augmentative treatment for treatment-resistant unipolar depression than intranasal esketamine and aripiprazole. Whether intravenous racemic ketamine or lithium is superior is unclear currently. A larger head-to-head trial of intravenous racemic ketamine versus conventional augmentative treatments for treatment-resistant unipolar depression is needed. • The relative clinical usefulness of intravenous racemic ketamine was evaluated. • It may be superior to aripiprazole and intranasal esketamine. • Its superiority over lithium is not clear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the association of gender on the physical morbidity of individuals likely living with bipolar disorder (BD) using a comprehensive health-related database. It investigated the association between lithium dispensing (a surrogate marker for BD) and other health morbidities, considering age and sex. The cross-sectional study design used the 10 % Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) database in Australia for 2022. Medication dispensing, age, and sex were available. A validated algorithm inferred 45 health morbidities from dispensed medicines. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression, assessed the relationship between lithium dispensing, sex, and age with inferred health morbidities. The sample consisted of 1,594,112 individuals aged 10 to over 95 years. A higher proportion of women than men were dispensed lithium (0.33 % vs 0.30 %). Lithium dispensing and age were associated with higher prevalence of inferred morbidities. Women dispensed lithium had a greater physical health burden compared to men, with higher odds of chronic airways diseases, diabetes, ischaemic heart disease/hypertension, inflammation, pain, psychosis, and steroid-responsive diseases. Conversely, women dispensed lithium had lower odds of cardiac arrhythmias and hypothyroidism compared to men. This study provides evidence that individuals with BD, indicated by the dispensing of lithium, experience a relatively higher frequency of physical health morbidities, with women being disproportionally affected compared to men. The findings highlight the need for comprehensive care for people living with BD, particularly women. • Most physical morbidities are more prevalent among individuals with than without bipolar disorder (BD), particularly women. • Women with BD have more respiratory, heart and steroid-responsive diseases, diabetes, inflammation, and pain than men. • Cardiac arrythmia and hypothyroidism are more frequent in men than women with bipolar disorder. • Older adults with BD require effective preventive interventions designed to meet their physical health, especially women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallic (Cu m)n+ nanoclusters are superior to their (Au m)n+ and (Ag m)n+ counterparts in the aspect of being relatively cheap for wide industrial demands. However, further improvements are still needed, especially in terms of the generation of (Cu m)n+ nanoclusters. Herein, (Cu m)n+ has been successfully generated with Mn2+ ions into 2.5MnO·47.5Li 2 O·50P 2 O 5 (MnP), 2.5CuO·47.5Li 2 O·50P 2 O 5 (CuP) and 2.5MnO·2.5CuO·45Li 2 O·50P 2 O 5 (CuMnP) matrices. This generation has been demonstrated by XRD, XPS, TEM, SEM, AFM, UV–Vis and PL analyses. MnP displays an amorphous nature with red light emission under an excitation wavelength of 409 nm due to the 4T 1 (G)→6A 1 (S) transition of Mn2+ ions. CuP and CuMnP exhibit the formation of spherical nanoclusters with a size less than 10 nm. These nanoclusters are attributed to (Cu m)n+, which exhibit tunable emission from blue to white to red light as the excitation wavelength changes from 270 to 360 nm. When MnP, CuP and CuMnP are subjected to 380 °C for 4, 1 and 1 h, respectively, the LiPO 3 crystalline phase has evolved. This is associated with the reduction of (Cu m)n+ to plasmonic (Cu°) n nanoparticles, and therefore crystallization-induced photoluminescence weakening. This demonstrates that the lithium metaphosphate glassy matrix provides an efficient emission as compared to the corresponding LiPO 3 crystalline phase. Overall, in the CuMnP matrix, there is an efficient energy transfer from (Cu m)n+ to Mn2+ as the 1E g excited level of (Cu m)n+ is higher than the 4A 1 /4E energy levels of Mn2+ ions. This synergistic Mn2+/(Cu m)n+ combination has resulted in the generation of a rare earth-free platform promised for white LED applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinel materials have attracted increasing attention as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) owing to their unique structures. ZnFe 2 O 4 spinel was synthesized by a co-precipitation method at different pH values — pH 11, pH 12, and pH 13 — followed by annealing in air at 750 °C for 3 h. The pH of the medium significantly influences the properties of ZnFe 2 O 4. At pH 11, ZnFe 2 O 4 particles of sizes 25–70 nm were covered by amorphous layers with thicknesses of approximately 2 nm, whereas higher degrees of crystallinity and larger particle sizes were obtained at higher pH values (12 and 13). Additionally, at pH 12, the Zn:Fe molar ratio in the prepared sample was 1:1.3, which deviated significantly from the nominal formula (1:2). Possibly, owing to the presence of amorphous layers that allow an isotropic volume change during the lithiation/delithiation steps, ZnFe 2 O 4 prepared at pH 11 exhibited the best performance when employed as an anode material in LIBs. Namely, its reversible specific capacity at the 1st and the 160th cycles at 0.1 A g−1 were 0.69 Ah g−1 and 0.72 Ah g−1, respectively. Although ZnFe 2 O 4 prepared at pH 12 gave an initial reversible specific capacity up to 0.89 Ah g−1, its capacity retention after 160 cycles was only 20%. Therefore, adjusting the pH of the coprecipitation step can improve the final lithium storage performance by controlling the degree of crystallinity, particle size, and chemical composition of the anode material ZnFe 2 O 4. [Display omitted] • Spinel ZnFe 2 O 4 is synthesized via a simple co-precipitation route at different pH values. • ZnFe 2 O 4 presents high crystallinity and nanostructures (from 25 to 70 nm). • ZnFe 2 O 4 electrode at pH 11 delivers an excellent reversible capacity (0.72 Ah g-1 at 160 cycles). • The morphology, amorphous layers, and particle size of ZnFe 2 O 4 support to improve electrochemical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium is an essential element in the current energy paradigm shift. Therefore, Li extraction from mineral sources has become a scientific and technological priority. Industrially, the mineral α-spodumene is heated to 1100 °C to obtain phase β and then digested with concentrated sulfuric acid at 250 °C. As an alternative, the extraction of Li from α-spodumene with molten NH 4 HF 2 has been proposed as an efficient alternative method at low temperature (∼160 °C). However, the LiF obtained requires an acid leaching step to be solubilized and to separate the Li from other products. This research presents the modeling and optimization of the acid leaching operating parameters of the LiF/(NH 4) 3 AlF 6 mixture. This mixture was obtained by processing α-spodumene with NH 4 HF 2 at low temperatures. The solids were characterized by XRD, SEM/EDS, and the Rietveld method. The leaching operating parameters investigated were solid/liquid ratio, sulfuric acid concentration, and leaching time. (NH 4) 3 AlF 6 dissolution and Li extraction were analyzed and modeled separately using artificial neural networks and least squares, respectively. The optimization stage of the process leads to (NH 4) 3 AlF 6 dissolution of 99% and Li extractions of 93%, working with 6% (v/v) sulfuric acid solution and an S/L ratio of 30 g/L for 24 min [Display omitted] • The LiF/(NH 4) 3 AlF 6 mixture is obtained by processing spodumene with NH 4 HF 2. • The LiF/(NH 4) 3 AlF 6 dissolution is analyzed in an acid medium. • Predictive models for LiF and (NH 4) 3 AlF 6 dissolution are presented. • Leaching time, S/L ratio, and acid concentration are analyzed. • The optimal conditions tested led to Li extractions of 93%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our group reported previously a comparable overall antisuicidal effect of lithium and valproate in bipolar patients. We investigated factors associated with higher antisuicidal efficacy of lithium in older individuals. The age-related antisuicidal effect of lithium and valproate was compared in ninety-four (n = 94) high-risk bipolar suicide attempters who participated in a 2.5-year randomized, double-blind trial. Age significantly moderated the effect of lithium vs. valproate on the risk of suicide event during the study (z = −1.98, p = 0.049). We found that those who were 42 years or older (above the 75th percentile), and on lithium had significantly lower risk of suicidal behavior than older patients on valproate (>42y) or younger (<42 y) patients on either medication (interaction HR = 0.09, 95%CI: 0.01–0.89, z = −2.07, p = 0.039). This difference in risk differences was not explained away by age-related differences in the proportion of participants with bipolar II disorder (Fisher's test p = 0.020) or higher lethality of past suicide attempts in younger participants (Wilcoxon test p = 0.024); neither was there any correlation with age in the longitudinally measured blood lithium levels (t = 1.04, df = 36, p = 0.307) or valproate levels (t = −0.50, df = 41, p = 0.621). Besides the fact that this is a secondary analysis, a limitation is that the study is not powered to detect suicide deaths or suicide attempts. Bipolar patients randomized to lithium and older than 42 years had less suicidal behavior compared to same aged patients on valproate or younger patients (<42 y) on either medication. This effect was independent of clinical and sociodemographic characteristics. • Antisuicidal effect of lithium appears to be stronger in bipolar patients ≥42 years • Suicide attempt risk in this patient group was lower than in other three groups • This age-effect was independent of patients' clinical and demographic characteristics [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid metal lithium can cause severe corrosion on the surface of fusion reactor blankets and first-wall metal materials. Oxidized erbium ceramic has been widely studied as a candidate material for the self-cooling blanket system of tokamak fusion reactors. In this study, time-resolved picosecond laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (ps-LIBS) was used to investigate the time evolution process of laser-induced plasma (LIP) of Er 2 O 3 samples in air at different pressures. The pressure-time windows with high signal-to-background ratio and high signal-to-noise ratio under LTE conditions were determined. The composition depth distribution of the Er 2 O 3 ceramic after static corrosion by lithium was analyzed. The number of laser pulses were linearly proportional to the laser ablation depth as measured by a three-dimensional profilometer. As the number of pulses increased, the relative intensities of the 610.353 nm and 812.645 nm characteristic lines of the corroding element Li gradually decreased, while the relative intensities of the 405.547 nm and 405.951 nm characteristic lines of the base element Er gradually increased. The laser pulse number at which the relative peak intensities of Er and Li reached a steady state showed a trend of first increasing and then decreasing with increasing pressure. In addition, the results of laser ablation depth under different environmental pressures indicated that the depth resolution of the analysis of anti-corrosion Er 2 O 3 ceramic materials can be controlled by the environmental gas pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To cover the excessive demand of lithium compounds, especially for the manufacture of vehicle batteries, several extraction technologies from natural resources and mainly geothermal brines are applied. These brines are distinguished by the complexity of its chemical composition. So, the quantification of lithium amount by spectroscopic methods will be disturbed by some interferences due to the cohabitation of major cations and anions. The originality of this investigated work is to optimize, by using the response surface methodology, and to validate, by the application of the accuracy profile approach, the analytical method for lithium assay by flame emission spectroscopy. After identification of the major ions in the oilfield brine sample (Ca, Mg, Na, K and Cl), a specificity test is applied, which reveals the presence of chemical interferences. For this reason, a spiked synthetic solution by a lithium standard (20 mg/L) is prepared for each run of the Doehlert design. Four studied factors, which are the major cations ([Ca2+] (X1), [Mg2+] (X2), [Na+] (X3) and [K+] (X4)), are used to build this design and to determine their effects on the lithium recovery yield response (Y(%)). As resulted outcomes, a polynomial valid and predictive model is statistically qualified and used to plot the iso-responses curves of the chosen response. Consequently, the optimal conditions are determined by: [Ca2+] (X1) = 1.7 mol/L, [Mg2+] (X2) = 0.02 mol/L, [Na+] (X3) = 0.36 mol/L and [K+] (X4) = 0.01 mol/L, which correspond to 64.128, 2.43, 60 and 2 g/L, respectively and the theoretical lithium recovery yield is nearby 98% in five-fold diluted composition. Moreover, the validation by the accuracy profile approach is performed after the robustness test. The resulted β-expectation tolerance interval is within the acceptability limits, which means that the analytical method, used for lithium assay by flame emission spectroscopy, is valid and the response variances are almost constant (homoscedasticity) over the predefined range concentration (8-50 mg/L) and it can be used for routine analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innovative anode materials with high capacity and good cyclic stability play a vital role on pursuing the high-performance lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Herein, ZnMn 2 O 4 /ZnMnO 3 /ZnO composite with a unique bilayer heterojunction structure is successfully synthesized by sintering of ZIF-8 coated Zn 1/3 Mn 2/3 CO 3. The crystal phase, microstructure and chemical composition of ZnMn 2 O 4 /ZnMnO 3 /ZnO composite are characterized to analyze the heterostructure in detail. When used as anode materials for LIBs, the rich heterostructure interface of the composite can adsorb more e- and Li+, improving the lithium storage behavior of material. Meanwhile, the build-in electric field generated by the heterojunction is conducive to accelerating the migration speed of e- and Li+, thus improving the conductivity of the material. As a result, after long-term cycles of 320 times, the specific capacity of ZnMn 2 O 4 /ZnMnO 3 /ZnO composite is up to 857.5 mAh g−1, and it still keeps a high specific capacity of 201.4 mAh g−1 at the high current of 5 C. These results indicate that ZnMn 2 O 4 /ZnMnO 3 /ZnO composite has great potential in the field of LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work integrates the impurities removal and graphite expansion in oxidation for one step, decreasing waste generation prominently. The metal impurities in recycled expansible graphite after oxidation, such as Cu and S, are fairly low that less than 2 ppm impurities. As anticipated, the regenerated expanded graphite still maintains 370 mAh/g after 1000 cycles at 1C, which exhibits far more excellent electrochemical performance than that of commercial graphite. [Display omitted] • Expanded graphite is regenerated from spent battery by a facile process. • Impurities removal and expanded graphite regeneration are realized simultaneously. • Metal impurities in expanded graphite are less than 2 ppm after recovery process. • Regenerated expanded graphite displays superior electrochemical performance. Currently, the recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has mainly been focused on the extraction of precious metals, such as lithium, cobalt and nickel from cathodes, while the waste graphite anode has been overlooked due to its low-cost production and abundant resources reserve. However, there are enormous potential value and pollution risk in the view of graphite recycling. Thus, we propose an original method to prepare expanded graphite (EG) as new anode material generated from waste graphite in LIBs which integrates the oxidation and purification in one-step. By regulating the oxidizability of potassium hypermanganate in the sulfur-phosphorus mixed acid system, the expansion of graphite and removal of impurities are realized simultaneously and thoroughly. As anticipated, the shortening of preparation process and purification procedure can also reduce the generation of polluting substances and production cost. It displays excellent electrochemical performance (reversible capacity of 435.8 mAh·g−1 at 0.1C and long-term cycling property of 370 mAh·g−1 at 1C after 1000 cycles), which is even higher than that of pristine commercial graphite. This delicate strategy of high-performance expanded graphite recycling achieves the integration of purification and value-added processes, providing the instructive guide to regenerate industrial-grade anode materials for the increasing LIBs demand in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]