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NiCo 2 S 4 with a spherical spinel structure was innovatively synthesized from discarded mobile phone batteries using a simple hydrothermal method, and the surface was coated with N-doped carbon to form NiCo 2 S 4 @NC. The products were used as anode materials of sodium-ion batteries to study the effect of the N-doped carbon layer on the electrochemical properties, structure and morphology. The results of XRD, FESEM and TEM revealed that the N-doped carbon layer derived by carbonizing polypyrrole had a minimal effect on the structure and morphology of NiCo 2 S 4 , but was coated on the surface of NiCo 2 S 4 with different thicknesses to adjust the electrochemical performance. The presence of N-doped carbon in NiCo 2 S 4 @NC was confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. The mesoporous structure of NiCo 2 S 4 and NiCo 2 S 4 @NC was corroborated by N 2 adsorption-desorption isotherm analysis, and the optimal specific surface area and pore size were 23.14 cm2/g and 18.0 nm, respectively. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicated that Co2+/Co3+ and Ni2+/Ni3+ coexist in the spinel NiCo 2 S 4 @NC 50 synthesized upon adding 50 μL of pyrrole monomer. NiCo 2 S 4 @NC 50 outperformed other products in terms of its electrochemical properties, where its initial discharge specific capacity under the current density of 0.1 A g−1 was 1099.6 mA h g−1 and the specific capacity following 100 cycles reached 327.5 mA h g−1. NiCo 2 S 4 @NC 50 exhibited an optimal electrochemical performance and demonstrated a competent approach toward recycling discarded mobile phone batteries and building electrodes with high performance for use in energy equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lead free Na 0. 5 Bi 0.5 TiO 3 (NBT) ceramic is proven as a potential piezoelectric candidate; however, non-stoichiometry NBT serves as an outstanding oxide-ion conductor proposed by (M. Li et al., Nature Materials 13 (2014) 31–35). According to this point here we have systematically report the structural and electrical properties of non-stoichiometry Na 0.5 Bi 0.49 TiO 3 /NB 0. 49 T and B-site Mn3+ acceptor-modified NB 0. 49 T system. Therefore, we are trying to prepare the nominal formula of Na 0.5 Bi 0.49 Ti 1-x Mn x O 3 ; NB 0.49 T ceramic with 0.0≤x ≤ 0.05 by solid state reaction method. The bulk oxide ion conductivity gradually increases with respect to the doping concentration and the maximum value was obtained for x = 0.05 composition. This conductivity maximum is in good consistent with R. A. De Souza's oxygen vacancy diffusivity limit concept for perovskite systems (Advanced Functional Materials, 25 (2015)). On doping of 5mol% of Mn in the Ti-site/B-site NB 0. 49 T system, it was observed that the oxygen-ion conduction inside the grain boundary increased considerably. Grain conductivity of NaBi 0.49 TiO 3 at 500 °C is ∼3.0 ± 0.5 mS cm−1, which is approximately 122 % greater than that pure NBT compositions. Additionally, NB 0.9 T -exhibited a conductivity value of 4.7 mS/cm at 500 °C, which increases to 9.2 mS/cm on 5 mol% Mn-modification. The observed increase in conductivity was ascribed due to the electrostatic interactions between Mn–Ti or Mn–O bond. Therefore, our current findings on NB 0.49 T illustrates that present approach should be applicable to modify the system for SOFC application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium glucose cotransporters (SGLTs) transport glucose against its concentration gradient by harnessing the electrochemical potential gradient of sodium ions. SGLT inhibitors are widely prescribed to treat diabetes and other conditions. Recent structural studies have uncovered how chemically diverse SGLT inhibitors bind and inhibit the transporter at the atomic level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Borophosphosilicate glasses with varying sodium ion concentrations were investigated for their, structural, thermal, and electrical properties. All the obtained glasses were transparent except the glass with the highest sodium content, which exhibited translucency due to inhomogeneities. Increasing sodium content led to reduced boron and silicon content while maintaining a constant B/Si ratio, indicating progressive depolymerization of the glass network. Confocal microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy showed homogeneous and granular structure for samples with lower sodium content, but higher sodium content resulted in visible agglomeration/nanocrystallization. X-ray diffractograms showed amorphous nature for most samples, with samples doped with the highest concentrations of Na 2 O showing several broad reflections suggesting nanoscale crystallinity. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy revealed shifts in dominant bands with increasing sodium content, indicating depolymerization of the borate network. An observed decrease in glass transition temperature and thermal stability with increasing sodium content was attributed to depolymerization and formation of non-bridging oxygens. Impedance spectroscopy revealed two relaxation processes associated with the transport of Na+ ions through two different regions. DC conductivity and activation energy predominantly increased with the sodium ion content at high temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All-inorganic CsPbX 3 (X = Cl, Br, I) perovskite quantum dots (QDs) exhibit substantial potential in optoelectronics, rendering them valuable materials for next-generation lighting. However, the high cost and substantial usage of Cs present challenges. This study investigates the impact of NaF and/or ZnO modifiers on the network topological structure of CsPbBr 3 QDs-embedded sodium borosilicate (SBS) glass. The incorporation of NaF and ZnO not only reduces Cs consumption and energy requirements during heat treatment but also enhances the stability and optical properties of CsPbBr 3 QDs. Through a combination of experimental analysis and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we explore the changes in the SBS glass network topology induced by these modifiers. The results demonstrate that the addition of these modifiers effectively alters the topological structure of SBS glass, providing outstanding water and heat resistance for the embedded CsPbBr 3 QDs. This suggests that the NaF and ZnO co-modified CsPbBr 3 QDs-embedded SBS glass, with improved stability and optical characteristics, exhibits great promise for applications in optoelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium sodium niobates (KNNs) have garnered significant attention owing to their lead-free nature and potential for use in self-cleaning membranes. This paper presents the synthesis of (K 0.5 Na 0.5)NbO 3 materials for the fabrication of porous membranes, which enable in situ ultrasonic resonance to effectively eliminate contaminants from the membrane surface. KNN powder was synthesized via solid-state reactions, and the membranes were prepared using conventional sintering techniques. The effects of ball-milling time and calcination temperature on the phase structure, pore size, permeance, flexural strength, chemical stability, and piezoelectric properties were comprehensively investigated. The optimal membranes exhibited an average pore size of approximately 300 nm, a porosity of 23 %, and permeance of 220 L m−2 h−1 bar−1 at a sintering temperature of 1050 °C. A polarized electrical field with a strength of 1 kV/mm was applied to the membranes, resulting in an ultrasonic response of 20 mV at an excitation voltage of 20 V with a frequency of 200 kHz. Furthermore, the in situ anti-fouling performance was evaluated by conducting filtration tests on a 500 ppm oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion, demonstrating that the stationary flux increased by 46.7 % when subjected to an excitation voltage of 60 V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physiology of fluid balance in humans should be understood and applied in clinical practice. Fluid balance, when managed accurately and safely, can prevent significant morbidity and mortality. Anaesthesia and critical care patients are often fasted and under physiological stress. Therefore, homeostatic regulation of fluid balance is impaired. A disturbance in normal fluid balance induces a physiological 'stress' response via metabolic, neuroendocrine and immune-mediated systems. Critically unwell patients may suffer morbidity secondary to high-volume fluid losses or oedema. There are three fluid compartments discussed in relation to human fluid balance. The intracellular space is surrounded by extracellular fluid, separated by a water permeable cell membrane. Extracellular fluid (ECF) compartment volume and electrolyte concentration, majorly sodium, must be tightly regulated to avoid osmosis and cell damage. The renal system maintains ECF volume by regulating sodium and osmotic concentration by retaining or excreting water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inappropriate fluid therapy can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. The maintenance of normal cellular and organ function relies on body fluid homeostasis. The concept of total body water compartmentalization, and the essential principles behind fluid physiology such as osmolarity and osmolality, osmosis and tonicity will be discussed. Factors that can influence body fluid distribution across different compartments and capillary fluid dynamics, such as the Starling forces and the role of endothelial glycocalyx layer will be discussed. Sodium, which plays a major role in plasma osmolality and compartment volume, requires tight regulation through various neuroendocrine mechanisms including the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) and vasopressin. In addition to the regulation of the extracellular environment, cells have a number of specialized transmembrane transporters such as the sodium–potassium pump and the aquaporin channels to modulate water movement in response to osmotic stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid-state electrolyte structures using sodium polyaluminate ceramics, have been fabricated for the first time using direct ink writing; a material extrusion-based additive manufacturing process. A series of test samples were prepared using a high solids loading (80 wt%; 51.2 vol%) ceramic paste formulations with suitable rheological characteristics for 3D printing. Following optimum densification via conventional sintering at 1600 °C for 30 min, the additively manufactured electrolyte test samples exhibited an ionic conductivity of σ = 0.14 ± 0.019 S·cm−1 at 300 °C and density of ρ = 3.1 ± 0.02 g·cm−3 (relative density of 95%). These results suggest that direct ink writing of sodium polyaluminates is a promising approach for electrolyte manufacture. Additionally, this approach shows great potential for manufacturing complete solid-state battery structures, through multi-material direct ink writing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

23Na MRI can be used to quantify in-vivo tissue sodium concentration (TSC), but the inherently low 23Na signal leads to long scan times and/or noisy or low-resolution images. Reconstruction algorithms such as compressed sensing (CS) have been proposed to mitigate low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR); although, these can result in unnatural images, suboptimal denoising and long processing times. Recently, machine learning has been increasingly used to denoise 1H MRI acquisitions; however, this approach typically requires large volumes of high-quality training data, which is not readily available for 23Na MRI. Here, we propose using 1H data to train a denoising convolutional neural network (CNN), which we subsequently demonstrate on prospective 23Na images of the calf. 1893 1H fat-saturated transverse slices of the knee from the open-source fastMRI dataset were used to train denoising CNNs for different levels of noise. Synthetic low SNR images were generated by adding gaussian noise to the high-quality 1H k-space data before reconstruction to create paired training data. For prospective testing, 23Na images of the calf were acquired in 10 healthy volunteers with a total of 150 averages over ten minutes, which were used as a reference throughout the study. From this data, images with fewer averages were retrospectively reconstructed using a non-uniform fast Fourier transform (NUFFT) as well as CS, with the NUFFT images subsequently denoised using the trained CNN. CNNs were successfully applied to 23Na images reconstructed with 50, 40 and 30 averages. Muscle and skin apparent TSC quantification from CNN-denoised images were equivalent to those from CS images, with <0.9 mM bias compared to reference values. Estimated SNR was significantly higher in CNN-denoised images compared to NUFFT, CS and reference images. Quantitative edge sharpness was equivalent for all images. For subjective image quality ranking, CNN-denoised images ranked equally best with reference images and significantly better than NUFFT and CS images. Denoising CNNs trained on 1H data can be successfully applied to 23Na images of the calf; thus, allowing scan time to be reduced from ten minutes to two minutes with little impact on image quality or apparent TSC quantification accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium para-aminosalicylic acid (PAS-Na) treatment for manganese (Mn) intoxication has shown efficacy in experimental and clinical studies, giving rise to additional studies on its efficacy for lead (Pb) neurotoxicity and its associated mechanisms of neuroprotection. The difference between PAS-Na and other metal complexing agents, such as edetate calcium sodium (CaNa 2 -EDTA), is firstly that PAS-Na can readily pass through the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and complex and facilitate the excretion of manganese and lead. Secondly, PAS-Na has anti-inflammatory effects. Recent studies have broadened the understanding on the mechanisms associated with efficacy of PAS-Na. The latter has been shown to modulate multifarious manganese- and lead- induced neurotoxicity, via its anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as its ability to inhibit pyroptosis, and regulate abnormal autophagic processes. These observations provide novel scientific bases and new concepts for the treatment of lead, mercury, copper, thallium, as well as other toxic encephalopathies, and implicate PAS-Na as a compound with greater prospects for clinical medical application. [Display omitted] • A complete review and contemporary update for the PAS-Na's efficacy. • PAS-Na inhibited Mn- and Pb-induced neurotoxicity. • PAS-Na has confirmed the ability to anti-apoptosis and anti-inflammatory. • PAS-Na could inhibit pyroptosis and regulate abnormal autophagic processes. • PAS-Na involved in Glu/GABA-Gln cycle to modulate neurotransmitter metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NaBiF 4 :Yb3+(20 mol%),Er3+(2mol%) phosphors (NBF:Yb,Er) were synthesized by a simple precipitation method. Several NBF:Yb,Er samples were made with different Na/F ratios (from 2/16 to 6/16 and 6/24). XRD and SEM measurements indicated that all the NBF:Yb,Er phosphors presented an hexagonal phase and morphology of microbars with sizes of 1–2 μm, respectively. According to the photoluminescence measurements, these phosphors emitted red/green emission bands at 541/655 nm and their emission intensity increased ⁓10.5 and 21 times for the green and red bands, respectively, after increasing the Na/F ratio from 2/16 to 4/16. In addition, the emission color was tuned from deep-green to yellow. Moreover, the Na/F ratio was decreased from 6/16 to 6/24, this in turn, changed the color emission from deep-green to orange. This last change of color occurred because the red emission was mainly favored by the following two cross relaxation (CR) processes CR 1 : 4I 11/2 (Er3+)+ 4F 7/2 (Er3+)→4F 9/2 (Er3+)+ 4F 9/2 (Er3+) and CR 2 : 4S 3/2 (Er3+)+ 2F 7/2 (Yb3+)→4I 13/2 (Er3+)+ 2F 5/2 (Yb3+). The second CR 2 process also promoted the NIR emission at 1527 nm. Additionally, the lifetimes for the green and red bands increased from 393 to 420 μs and from 428 to 518 μs with the Na/F ratio, respectively. Thus, we presented here a new strategy to enhance the photoluminescence intensity and to control the emission-color/lifetimes without using extra co-dopants (as previously reported in literature). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium intake reduction is crucial for cardiovascular health, however, its lasting impact on dementia remains unclear. We included 458,577 UK Biobank participants without dementia at baseline. We estimated 24-h urinary sodium (E24hUNa) using spot urinary parameters and obtained the incidence of all-cause dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and vascular dementia from multiple sources. The mean E24hUNa was 3.0 g (1st-99th percentile: 1.5 g–5.1 g). Over a mean follow-up of 13.6 years, 7886 (1.7 %) participants developed all-cause dementia, including 3763 (0.8 %) Alzheimer's disease and 1851 (0.4 %) vascular dementia. In the restricted cubic spline model, we identify a potential cutoff of 3.13 g for E24hUNa, below which each 1 g decrease in E24hUNa was associated with 21 % (95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.11–1.34) higher all-cause dementia risk and 35 % (95 % CI 1.11–1.63) higher vascular dementia risk (P -value <0.001 for non-linearity). The hazard ratios were 1.15 (95 % CI, 1.07–1.24) for all-cause dementia and 1.21 (95 % CI 1.04–1.40) for vascular dementia among individuals with E24hUNa below 3.13 g compared to those with E24hUNa higher than 3.13 g. One of the major limitations is the estimation of 24-h urinary sodium with spot urine samples. An E24hUNa level below 3.13 g, equivalent to 3.37 g daily sodium intake, is associated with increased risks of all-cause and vascular dementia. This exploratory study suggests a potential lower limit below which the risk of dementia increases with a lower sodium level. Future studies are necessary to validate our findings. • We evaluated the prospective association between E24hUNa and the risk of dementia. • E24hUNa associated with dementia in a non-linear dose-response manner. • 3.13 g seemed the cut-point for E24hUNa. • E24hUNa < 3.13 g in participants linked to 15 % higher dementia risk than >3.13 g. • When <3.13 g, each 1 g decrease in E24hUNa raised dementia risk by 21 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NaAlH 4 is a reversible hydrogen storage material and has attracted great attention recently. However, the application of NaAlH 4 in hydrogen storage still has great difficulties. In this study, 2D MXene Ti 2 C-doped NaAlH 4 samples were prepared in-situ by reaction ball milling of NaH under moderate condition. TPD measurement results show that all the as-prepared samples exhibit good thermodynamic performance except for the sample doped with 1 wt% Ti 2 C. And DSC analysis results show that at the heating rate of 5 K/min, the first and second dehydrogenation peak temperatures of the sample doped with 7 wt% Ti 2 C were 127.1 °C and 150.6 °C respectively, which are 57.4 °C and 123.6 °C lower than those of pure NaAlH 4 (after ball milling), respectively. Meanwhile, NaH/Al-7 wt.% Ti 2 C sample displays a superior kinetics behavior. Isothermal hydrogen evolution curves show that NaH/Al-7 wt.%Ti 2 C released 5.21 wt% H 2 within 30 min at 150 °C and then absorbs 5.2 wt% H 2 in 90 s at 120 °C. Even at a lower temperature of 80 °C, the sample still absorbed 4.71 wt% H 2 within 60 min. In addition, almost no release capacity attenuation was observed for NaH/Al-7 wt.%Ti 2 C after 10 hydrogen absorption/desorption cycles. The improvement of the hydrogen storage properties can be ascribed to the high reactivity of NaAlH 4 produced in situ and catalysis of lamellar Ti3+/0 species formed by the reduction of high valent Ti in Ti 2 C during ball milling. • Ti 2 C doped NaAlH 4 samples were prepared in-situ under moderate condition. • NaH/Al doped 7 wt% Ti 2 C displays excellent hydrogen storage properties. • Ti3+/0 species exhibit efficient catalysis on de/rehydrogenation of NaH/Al complex hydride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid electrolytes are expected to improve the next-generation rechargeable batteries in terms of safety and cost issues. In the present study, we designed a conventional sulfide sodium-ion conductor Na 3+2 x La x Sb 1- x S 4 synthesized from Na 2 S·9H 2 O as raw material. For optimized electrochemical behavior, the partial substitution of Sb with La in Na 3 SbS 4 was modified by broadening Na+ ion channels and increasing interstitial Na+ ions in the network lattice. The structural characterization verified the increase in crystallinity after subsequent heating at 450 °C. The composition and structural design realized a high room temperature conductivity of 0.52 mS cm−1 and low activation energy of 0.069 eV for the Na 3 · 1 La 0 · 05 Sb 0 · 95 S 4 sample. Moreover, this sulfide electrolyte was equipped with additional advantages, such as much lower electronic conductivity than Na 3 SbS 4 and air stability against the humid atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Low serum Mn can be a noninvasive marker predicting myosteatosis among cirrhosis. • Mn concentrations negatively correlated with intramuscular adipose tissue content. • Measuring temporal Mn is a surrogate to monitor muscular abnormalities progression. Emerging evidence expands on a close connection between trace elements and muscular abnormalities, mostly focusing on sarcopenia. We hypothesized an association between concentrations of serum trace elements and myosteatosis, given that myosteatosis has a more pronounced clinical implication relative to sarcopenia, but there is a paucity of data in patients with cirrhosis. Consecutive patients were hospitalized for cirrhosis-associated complications. Serum trace elements (zinc, copper, manganese [Mn], magnesium, calcium, and iron) were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The presence of myosteatosis was defined according to computed tomography–demarcated intramuscular adipose tissue content. In total, the 295 patients with cirrhosis analyzed had a median age of 63 years and 53.6% were male. Among them, 42 patients presented with myosteatosis (14.2%) and concomitant higher Model for End-stage Liver Disease-Sodium and triglyceride concentrations and lower neutrophil counts and serum Mn concentrations (all P <.05). No differences were found regarding other 5 trace elements in patients with versus without myosteatosis. The median serum Mn concentrations were 1.16 µg/L, and this population was categorized into high-Mn and low-Mn groups. The proportion of myosteatosis was significantly lower in high-Mn group than that in low-Mn group (8.1% vs 20.4%, P <.001). Univariable binary logistic regression indicated that low Mn was associated with myosteatosis (odds ratio, 2.906; 95% confidence interval, 1.424–5.932; P =.003) in the context of cirrhosis. This result was validated according to multivariable analysis by adjusting for confounding factors. In conclusion, low serum Mn can be predictive of myosteatosis, a novel muscular abnormality representing more clinical relevance and close relation to inferior outcomes among cirrhosis. Our preliminary results unveiled low serum Mn can be a noninvasive marker predicting myosteatosis among hospitalized patients with cirrhosis. We observed that concentrations of serum Mn were negatively correlated with the values of intramuscular adipose tissue content, an indicator identifying myosteatosis. Collectively, these findings implicated that temporal serum Mn may be a surrogate to keeping muscular abnormality progression under observation from both preventive and interventive insights. Abbreviations: Ca, calcium; Cu, copper; Fe, iron; Mg, magnesium; Mn, manganese; Zn, zinc. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the infiltrative nature and high local recurrence of gliomas, particularly high-grade gliomas, gross total resection (GTR) of a tumor is the first critical step in treatment. This study aimed to determine whether the integration of intraoperative contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and fluorescein sodium can improve the identification of tumor boundaries and residuals, and increasethe extent of resection (EOR) to better protect neurological function. We retrospectively analysed clinical data from 87 glioma surgeries and categorised the patients into 3 groups: CEUS plus fluorescein sodium, fluorescein sodium alone and microsurgery alone. In terms of EOR, GTR was achieved in 22 (91.7%) patients in the CEUS plus fluorescein sodium group, which was significantly higher than that in other groups. In the subgroup analysis of tumors with lobulated or satellite lesions and WHO grade III or IV gliomas, CEUS plus fluorescein sodium group showed the highest GTR (86.7% and 88.9% respectively) among the groups. Logistic regression analysis of factors that may affect the GTR of tumors showed that the functional areas involvement and the presence of lobulated or satellite lesions were risk factors, whereas CEUS plus fluorescein sodium group was a protective factor. However, CEUS plus fluorescein sodium group had the longest surgery time. Intraoperative CEUS with fluorescein sodium is a real-time, straightforward, safe, and effective approach to perform surgical resection of gliomas. This approach assists surgeons in identifying tumor boundaries, residual tumors, and normal brain parenchyma, which increases the EOR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium tungsten bronzes (Na x WO 3) are reduced metal oxides with applications in nanoparticle plasmonics. Despite decades of research, little is known about the conditions under which they can corrode. Here, Na x WO 3 nanoparticles were exposed to high-humidity air for 71 days to induce corrosion. The samples were studied ex-situ by using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The low-Na sample (x = 0.4) corroded slowly into a single, insulating, hydrated Na–W– O –N phase over 10 weeks. The high-Na sample (x = 0.7) fully corroded after only 4 weeks, decomposing into at least 3 corrosion products, including the phase observed in the low-Na sample. Despite the complex corrosion process, the corrosion rate of both samples was reasonably well-described by a first-order rate equation, allowing for straightforward estimation of the corrosion kinetics. Although the corrosion phases could not be unambiguously determined, the EDS and XRD data suggests that the phases are hydrated, sodiated tungstates which appear to contain N. These findings help clarify the conditions under which the tungsten bronzes can corrode and are important for designing applications which use tungsten bronze nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adequate tissue perfusion and cellular function is dependent on the maintenance of effective circulatory volume and serum osmolality, respectively. As sodium is the principal extracellular cation with the inability to pass freely across the cellular membrane, it therefore has the greatest effect on extracellular fluid osmolality. The extracellular fluid (ECF) volume can increase or decrease independent of the surrounding osmolality indicating that control of plasma osmolality and volume occur through distinct physiological processes. Disorders in sodium balance with consequent effect on osmolality come about mainly due to disturbances in water homeostasis rather than an abnormality of sodium intake or excretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kidneys have a major role in maintaining homeostasis of body fluids, electrolytes concentrations, acid–base balance, and osmolality. This role is achieved by the functional unit of the kidneys, which is the nephron, through four consequent mechanisms: filtration, reabsorption, secretion, and excretion. Additionally, kidneys synthesize two hormones – erythropoietin and renin – and participate in calcium homeostasis. It is essential to recognize and manage acute or chronic kidney dysfunction to avoid further deterioration of kidneys and electrolytes imbalance, which both can be fatal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple-quantum-filtered (MQF) sodium magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), such as enhanced single-quantum and triple-quantum-filtered imaging of 23Na (eSISTINA), enables images to be weighted towards restricted sodium, a promising biomarker in clinical practice, but often suffers from clinically infeasible acquisition times and low image quality. This study aims to mitigate the above limitation by implementing a novel eSISTINA sequence at 7 T with the application of compressed sensing (CS) to accelerate eSISTINA acquisitions without a noticeable loss of information. A novel eSISTINA sequence with a 3D spiral-based sampling scheme was implemented at 7 T for the application of CS. Fully sampled datasets were obtained from one phantom and ten healthy subjects, and were then retrospectively undersampled by various undersampling factors. CS undersampled reconstructions were compared to fully sampled and undersampled nonuniform fast Fourier transform (NUFFT) reconstructions. Reconstruction performance was evaluated based on structural similarity (SSIM), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), weightings towards total and compartmental sodium, and in vivo quantitative estimates. CS-based phantom and in vivo images have less noise and better structural delineation while maintaining the weightings towards total, non-restricted (predominantly extracellular), and restricted (primarily intracellular) sodium. CS generally outperforms NUFFT with a higher SNR and a better SSIM, except for the SSIM in TQ brain images, which is likely due to substantial noise contamination. CS enables in vivo quantitative estimates with <15% errors at an undersampling factor of up to two. Successful implementation of an eSISTINA sequence with an incoherent sampling scheme at 7 T was demonstrated. CS can accelerate eSISTINA by up to twofold at 7 T with reduced noise levels compared to NUFFT, while maintaining major structural information, reasonable weightings towards total and compartmental sodium, and relatively reliable in vivo quantification. The associated reduction in acquisition time has the potential to facilitate the clinical applicability of MQF sodium MRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High sodium and low potassium intake are positively associated with blood pressure, a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The mean intake of sodium among United States adults exceeds the chronic disease risk reduction level of 2300 mg/d, whereas potassium intake remains lower than the recommended levels. From 2008 through 2019, there were several local and national initiatives to reduce sodium in New York City (NYC). Objectives: We aimed to update and compare estimates of sodium intake among NYC adults overall and by covariates from the 2010 Heart Follow-Up Study (HFUS) with the 2018 HFUS. We also estimated the 2018 sodium-to-potassium ratio to understand overall diet quality among demographic groups. Methods: This cross-sectional study used sodium and potassium measurements from 24-h urine collection and self-reported data from 2509 and 1656 participants in the 2018 and 2010 HFUS, respectively. The weighted mean daily intake of sodium and the sodium-to-potassium ratio were estimated. T-tests and multivariable linear regression models with tests for interactions were used to compare changes in sodium intake. Results: The mean sodium intake of adult New Yorkers in 2018 was 3292 mg/d. Sodium intake did not change from 2010 (3234 mg/d, P = 0.45) to 2018 in the overall population, although there was a decrease in sodium intake among adults 18-24 y old (3445 mg/d to 2957 mg/d, P = 0.05). The daily mean sodium-to-potassium ratio was 1.7 mg/mg. The highest sodium-to-potassium ratios were among Black females 18-44 y old (2.0) and 45-64 y old (2.2) and Black (2.1) and Latino (2.1) males between 18 and 44 y old. Conclusions: The lack of population-level changes in sodium intake and the high sodium-to-potassium ratios among Black females and younger Black and Latino males suggest that further efforts to reduce sodium in the food supply and address persistent inequities are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium-enriched low sodium salt substitutes (LSSS), which replace a proportion of sodium chloride (NaCl) with potassium chloride (KCl), have been shown to reduce blood pressure and offer a potential solution to address the high burden of hypertension in South Africa. However, it is unknown which proportions of KCl in LSSS are acceptable. We compared the taste and visual acceptability of various LSSS in South African adults. Fifty-six adults underwent double-blind taste and visual tests of four LSSS (35%KCl/65%NaCl; 50%KCl/50%NaCl; 66%KCl/34%NaCl; 100%KCl) in comparison to 100%NaCl (common salt). Participants scored each product by taste ranking, taste perception and likeliness to use. Participants then visually inspected the five products and attempted to identify which was which. Almost half (45 %) of participants ranked the taste of 50%KCl/50 %NaCl as fantastic or really good. Furthermore, 62 % of participants liked and would be happy to use the 50 %KCl/50 %NaCl or felt this tasted like common salt. Only 12 % rated the 100%KCl highly for taste, and over half reported being unlikely to use this. Most participants (57.3 % and 36.4 %) were able to visually identify 100%NaCl and 100%KCl, while identification of other blends was generally poor. Responses were similar for 35%KCl/65%NaCl and 66%KCl/34%NaCl throughout. Our findings suggest that the taste of the 50%KCl salt substitute would be well tolerated by South African adults, most of which could not visually differentiate between this salt substitute and common salt. • 50%KCl salt substitute would be well tolerated from a taste perspective in South Africa. • 100%KCl did not rank highly for taste, over half reported being unlikely to use this. • Most participants were able to visually identify 100%NaCl and 100%KCl. • 35%, 50% and 66%KCl were not visually distinguishable by the majority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkali metal amidoboranes have been intensively investigated as potentially highly attractive candidates for solid-state hydrogen storage. In this family, sodium amidoborane NaNH 2 BH 3 occupies a special place, due to its unique properties. From one side, its high hydrogen content (9.4 wt.%) and low dehydrogenation temperature (89 °C) make it very perspective in this regard. However, detailed studies revealed a number of very serious drawbacks, which consequently led to a dramatic reduction of the initial research hype, although potentially very interesting innovative aspects of its use beyond hydrogen storage have also been discovered. However, a critical insight to the entire field of metal amidoborane chemistry, especially in the technologically relevant context of solid-state hydrogen storage, is lacking. Thus, by this review, we want to fill this gap. Accordingly, this review brings a detailed and critical comparative discussion of synthesis and chemical properties of sodium amidoborane. They are considered not exclusive through technological, but also environmentally relevant optics with respect of their utilization in real-world advanced and sustainable energy systems. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyponatremia is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality, but causal links have been difficult to establish. Here, we describe the establishment and representativeness of the Stockholm Sodium Cohort (SSC), designed to study etiologies and outcomes of hyponatremia. All residents of Stockholm County undertaking at least one serum sodium test between 2005–2018 were included in the SSC. Individual-level test results from over 100 laboratory parameters relevant to hyponatremia were collected and linked to data on demographics, socioeconomic status, healthcare contacts, diagnoses and dispensed prescription medications using national registers. A total of 1,632,249 individuals, corresponding to 64% of the population of Stockholm County, were included in the SSC. Coverage increased with advancing age, ranging from 32% in children and adolescents (≤18 years) to 97% among the oldest (≥80 years). The coverage of SSC included the vast majority of patients in Stockholm County diagnosed with diabetes mellitus (93%), myocardial infarction (98%), ischemic stroke (97%), cancer (85%), pneumonias requiring inpatient care (95%) and deaths (88%). SSC is the first cohort specifically designed to investigate sodium levels in a large, population-based setting. It includes a wide range of administrative health data and laboratory analyses. The coverage is high, particularly among elderly and individuals with comorbidities. Consequently, the cohort has a large potential for exploration of various aspects of hyponatremia. • Hyponatremia is associated with considerable mortality and morbidity, but the etiology is complex. • The Stockholm Sodium Cohort facilitates studies on the etiology and consequences of hyponatremia. • SSC includes over 1.6 million individuals and a wide range of administrative health data and laboratory analyses. • The coverage of SSC is high, particularly among the elderly and among individuals with comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maximizing surgical resection of medulloblastoma (MB) affects overall survival; nevertheless, surgical resection remains a because of the infiltrative behavior of this tumor. Several dyes have been tested for improving tumor visualization; however, few reports with different protocols of fluorophores use are available and the results are inconsistent. Hence, we report our experience with sodium fluorescein in MB surgery, aiming to assess the role of this technique on the extent of resection. Furthermore, we performed a literature review of this topic. Fluorescence characteristics, extent of resection, and clinical outcome were analyzed in 9 consecutively operated patients with MB. A comprehensive literature search and review for English-language articles concerning fluorescein application in MB was conducted. In our cohort, no side effect related to fluorescein occurred; all tumors presented with an intense or moderate yellow-green enhancement, and fluorescein was judged fundamental in distinguishing tumors from viable tissue in 7 of 9 cases. Gross total resection or near-total resection (i.e., a residual tumor volume <1.5 cm3) was achieved in 8 patients. The review explored the different techniques and surgical interpretations as well as surgical radicality; we did not find a homogenous protocol for fluorescein injection in the published articles. Fluorescence appeared moderate or intense in almost all cases, with a high percentage of usefulness and consensual achievement of a high rate of gross total resection. Based on these results, we can infer that fluorescein-guided surgical resection is a safe and valuable method for patients with MB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Anode-free sodium batteries (AFSBs) with high energy density and cost-efficiency are practically promising for the transition to clean-energy society. However, application is limited because of low coulombic efficiency (CE) and limited cycle-life, together with a lack of understanding in device energy density and cost. Here we report a critical assessment of selected AFSBs with lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) from energy density and cost perspectives, based on commercial 4680 cylindrical construction. We establish reasons for low cycle-life of AFSBs and summarize current research in AFSBs. We confirm energy density range, materials cost, and potential demand for AFSBs via computation based on 4680 battery devices. We show the impact of active sodium ions and cathode active sites on cycle life. We compare the improvements in cycle-life achieved though electrolyte innovation, artificial solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) engineering, current collector modification, and pre-sodiation, along with the resulting energy density. We provide perspectives on likely future research to boost practical application of AFSBs. We conclude that findings will be of benefit in design for anode-free sodium batteries for clean energy storage and of interest therefore to a range of researchers in electrochemistry, materials and device engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to estimate the economic costs of excessive sodium consumption in terms of hospitalizations and outpatient procedures of medium and high complexity (OPMHC) for the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) and its states in 2019. Ecological study. This study used population attributable fractions (PAFs) of excessive sodium consumption estimated by the Global Burden of Disease study based on the theoretical minimum risk exposure level (3 g of sodium per day), the average population consumption, and relative risks of sodium–outcome pairs. PAFs were applied to the total costs of hospitalizations and OPMHC paid by SUS for each outcome obtained from the Outpatient and Hospital Information Systems. The costs per 10,000 inhabitants in all the Brazilian states were calculated and converted into international dollars (Int$), considering the purchasing parity power in the year 2019. Excessive sodium consumption resulted in Int$ 98,882,386.36 (95% uncertainty interval: Int$ 3,398,343.53–312,065,319.80) in hospitalizations and OPMHC costs in Brazil in 2019. Males and the 55- to 69-year-old age group had the highest expenditures attributable to excessive sodium consumption. Cardiovascular diseases were the most significant contributors to the costs associated with the risk factor. Southern and southeastern states had the highest costs of diseases attributable to sodium. Excessive sodium consumption has a significant economic burden on SUS, particularly among men and more developed states. This underscores the inequalities in socio-economic factors and access to health services throughout the country. Economic analyses at the subnational level can provide evidence for public policy planning to define the most appropriate actions for the population's sociodemographic reality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early prediction of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) severity is crucial. Hyponatremia has been linked to poor outcomes in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, but its association with mild cases is unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether initial serum sodium level is a risk factor for COVID-19 severity in patients with mild-to-moderate disease. A multicenter retrospective cohort study was conducted in 10 hospitals in Fukui City, Japan, from July 1, 2020, to October 31, 2021. The study included 1055 adult patients with asymptomatic, mild, or moderate COVID-19 confirmed by a positive RT-PCR test. The primary outcome was the need for oxygen therapy after hospitalization, and the secondary outcome was the composite of in-hospital death and critical care interventions. The association between initial serum sodium level (at the emergency department or on admission) and outcomes was examined, adjusting for age, sex, hypertension, and pneumonia presence. Of the 1267 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 during the study period, 1055 were eligible (median age: 45 years; 54 % male). Hyponatremia was observed in 5.2 % of patients upon admission. A lower initial serum sodium level was associated with an increased risk of the need for oxygen therapy after hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio [OR] per 1 mmol/L lower, 1.12 [95 % confidence interval {CI}, 1.05–1.19]) and the composite of critical care and in-hospital death (adjusted OR per 1 mmol/L lower, 1.09 [95 % CI, 0.99–1.20]). Among patients with mild COVID-19, lower initial serum sodium level was a risk factor for COVID-19 progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Information on salt consumption patterns is needed to inform the need for and design of salt reduction strategies. Objectives: In northern Ghana, this study aimed to estimate household consumption of salt, including salt from bouillon, and compare (estimated) women and children's salt intake to global recommendations; to estimate the proportion of salt consumed from bouillon; and to identify factors, including knowledge, attitudes, and practices, associated with household salt consumption. Methods: Employing mixed-methods methodology, we conducted a pilot survey (n = 369 households enrolled) and focus group discussions (FGDs; n = 20) in Tolon and Kumbungu districts (14 urban, 14 rural clusters) (clinicaltrials.gov registry: NCT04632771). Households reported purchases of discretionary salt (DS, "table salt") and bouillon cubes. DS and total salt (TS; DSþsalt from bouillon) consumption for women (15-49 y) and children (2-5 y) were estimated using the Adult Male Equivalent method and compared with global recommendations (<5 g/d women; <3.75 g/d children). Women's salt intake was also predicted from urinary sodium excretion (INTERSALT equation). Associations between DS and TS consumption, as well as household and women's characteristics, were tested with minimally adjusted and multivariable linear mixed-effects models. Qualitative FGD themes were generated using the Framework Method. Results: From household purchase data, estimated TS consumption exceeded global recommendations for 44% of children [median: 2.9 (IQR: 1.9, 5.2) g/d] and 60% of women [6.0 (4.0, 10.2) g/d]; 35% of children and 50% of women exceeded recommendations from DS alone. Bouillon contributed <25% of households' TS consumption. Few characteristics were associated with DS or TS consumption. Salient qualitative themes that shaped salt consumption behaviors included salt's ubiquity as a seasoning, key household members' influence on food procurement and preparation, and perceptions about health. Conclusions: Purchase data suggest salt consumption among women and children exceeds recommendations, even when excluding salt from bouillon; food prepared outside the home likely further contributes. Salt reduction interventions may be warranted in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fucoidan ameliorated dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis through promoting autophagy. • Fucoidan-induced autophagy improved colon barrier and reshaped gut microbiota. • The present study supported the therapeutic potential of fucoidan for the adjuvant treatment of other autophagy-related diseases. Although previous research has unveiled the remedial effects of fucoidan, an extract from marine algae, on ulcerative colitis (UC), the precise mechanisms remain elusive. Animal studies have suggested a connection between autophagy and the beneficial influences of fucoidan intervention. We hypothesized that fucoidan's alleviative effects on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC could be ascribed to autophagy. For our study, we chose 36 male C57BL/6 mice and administered 100 or 400 mg/(kg/body weight/day) of fucoidan via gavage for 5 consecutive weeks. During the last week, the mice were given 3% DSS in drinking water to induce UC. In contrast to the DSS-induced UC model, fucoidan intervention prevented DSS-induced body weight loss, mitigated colon shortening, improved colon mucosa damage, enhanced the intestinal barrier, and reduced serum inflammatory factor concentrations. Furthermore, fucoidan intervention reshaped the gut microbiota compositions, increased the relative abundance of Bacteroidota, Muribaculaceae_unclassified, Clostridiales_unclassified , and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group , and decreased the relative abundance of Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Escherichia-Shigella , which led to a lower Firmicutes/Bacteroidota ratio. Additionally, fucoidan treatment enhanced autophagy, as evidenced by upregulated protein expressions of BECLIN1, ATG5, ATG7, and an increased microtubule-associated-proteinlight-chain-3-II/microtubule-associated-proteinlight-chain-3-I ratio. Our findings corroborated the ameliorating effects of fucoidan intervention on DSS-induced UC through autophagy activation, reorganization of gut microbiota, and fortification of the intestinal barrier. This lends support to the therapeutic potential of fucoidan as a natural bioactive ingredient for future UC treatments in humans. Rapidly increasing incidence of UC imposed an enormous burden on health care. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential mechanisms of fucoidan to ameliorate DSS-induced UC. Fucoidan treatments improved the intestinal barrier, regulated gut microbiota composition, decreased serum inflammatory factors concentrations, and promoted autophagy by inhibiting PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, thereby ameliorating DSS-induced UC. Abbreviations: AKT, protein kinase B; ATG5, autophagy-related gene 5; ATG7, autophagy-related gene 7; ATG16L1, autophagy-related protein 16-like 1; DSS, dextran sulfate sodium; IL-1β, interleukin-1β; LC3, microtubule-associated-proteinlight-chain-3; mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin; MUC-2, mucin-2; PI3K, phosphoinositide-3 kinase; TNF-α, tumor necrosis factor-alpha; UC, ulcerative colitis; ULK1, serine/threonine kinase Unc-51-like kinase 1; ZO-1, zonula occludens-1. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium dehydroacetate (DHA-S), a potent antifungal and antibacterial agent, is widely used in food, feed and cosmetics. However, recent studies have shown that DHA-S could pose a risk for human and animal health. We had previously reported that DHA-S could cause coagulation disorders in rats and chicken. In the present study, we further confirmed that DHA-S induced blood coagulation via VKORC1 and VKORC1L1 in rats, and elucidated the role played by mTOR/ERK signaling. The in vivo studies demonstrated that PT, APTT, and DHA-S content and relative protein expressions in tissues rebounded after drug withdrawal. In BRL-3A cells, 1.0 mM DHA-S increased the expression levels of mTOR, p-mTOR and p-ERK and decreased the levels of VKORC1, VKORC1L1 and Vitamin K. Rapamycin significantly decreased the expression levels of p-mTOR and p-ERK, while FR180204 (p-ERK Inhibition) lead to a decrease in p-ERK level. Rapamycin and FR180202 attenuated the inhibitory effect of DHA-S on VKORC1, VKORC1L1 and vitamin K levels. In addition, DHA-S increased the expression levels of mTOR, p-mTOR and p-ERK in male and female rat livers and prolonged PT and APTT. In summary, this study indicated that DHA-S induced blood coagulation via the modulation of the mTOR/ERK pathway in rats. • The Mechanism of Blood Coagulation Induced by Sodium Dehydroacetate via the Regulation of the mTOR/ERK Pathway in Rats. • Sodium dehydroacetate induces blood coagulation disorder in rats. • Sodium dehydroacetate inhibits coagulation factor activation by inhibiting VKORC1L1 and VKORC1 expression. • mTOR/ERK pathway might play an important role in the modulation of VKORC1 and VKORC1L1 expression by DHA-S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excess salt intake is the leading dietary risk factor for cardiovascular disease in most countries, including Italy. While the cost-effectiveness of interventions aimed to reduce salt intake has been proved, the WHO recommendation to reduce salt intake by 30 % at the global level by 2025 is far from being reached. In Italy, two surveys of the general adult population have established that the average salt intake is still almost twice the WHO recommendation although it was reduced by 1.2 g/day between 2008–12 and 2018–19. Previous investigations had shown that non-discretionary salt added by the industry or by local craft producers represents at least 50 % of the total intake and indicated cereal-based products as the main source of non-discretionary salt. Two recent studies conducted by the Italian Society of Human Nutrition "Young Working Group" have provided updated information on the salt content of almost three thousand cereal-based products currently available on the Italian food market and shown that most of the items evaluated had a sodium content much higher than the sodium benchmarks recently proposed by WHO. Italy has built the foundations of an effective population strategy for salt intake reduction: it is time however to proceed with full commitment to food reformulation if any substantial further progress has to be made. Salt benchmarks for Italy need to be defined for the food categories most relevant to population salt intake and their implementation should ideally be mandatory after consultation with food producers. • Average salt intake in Italy is still almost twice the WHO recommended level. • Cereal-based products are the major source of non-discretionary salt intake in Italy. • The sodium content of cereal-based products is in almost all cases well above the benchmarks proposed by WHO. • There is an urgent need to proceed to food reformulation by defining sodium targets for the foods most relevant to high salt intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of the technologies for energy storage and conversion requires a search for compounds with high diffusion of alkali and alkaline-earth ions. Here, we present the results of comprehensive studies, including synthesis, powder X-ray diffraction, experiments on impedance and 23Na NMR spectroscopy, as well as ab initio calculations, which were carried out to explore the sodium diffusion in scheelite-like Na 5 M (MoO 4) 4 with M = Y, La, Bi, and in related solid solutions Na 5- x M 1- x Zr x (MoO 4) 4 (0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.1), which were synthesized for the first time. Our investigations reveal that the Na-ion mobility increases in the sequence Y → La → Bi and with growing x. For Na 4.9 Bi 0.9 Zr 0.1 (MoO 4) 4 the highest ion conductivity was found: ∼10−4 S/cm at T = 450 °C, which is comparable to that of the NASICON-type molybdates. From the temperature variations of the 23Na NMR spectra and DFT calculations, the mechanism of sodium-ion diffusion was established at the atomic-scale level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon carbide (SiC) ceramic membranes require high sintering temperatures (greater than 1800 °C), which consume substantial energy and increase the production costs. In this study, we report the successful preparation of a low-cost, high-performance SiC ceramic membrane at a low temperature of 800 °C using industrial-grade sodium meta-aluminate (NaAlO 2) as a sintering agent. The effects of sintering temperature and NaAlO 2 content on the microstructure, porosity, bending strength, pore size, and pure water permeability of the SiC membranes were investigated systematically. The results indicate that the optimal sintering temperature and NaAlO 2 content are 800 °C and 10 wt%, respectively. The SiC membrane prepared under these conditions exhibited an average pore size of 2.57 μm, a porosity of 52.07%, a bending strength of 50.2 ± 0.41 MPa, and a very high pure water permeability of 103.3 m3 m−2 h−1 bar−1. Additionally, the SiC membrane prepared in this study also exhibited good chemical stability and could be used in acid and alkali environments for long periods. These results highlight the potential of SiC membranes in various applications, particularly in water treatment and filtration application. The findings of this study are useful to enrich membrane technology knowledge and guide future research and development of related technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: A mycophenolate sodium enteric-coated tablet has shown a satisfying anti-rejection effect in patients receiving solid organ transplantation. The current study evaluated the bioequivalence between the test (Ruiyirong®) vs. reference (Myfortic®) formulations by exploring equations for predicting their area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) using a limited sampling strategy in healthy subjects. Methods: Forty-eight healthy Chinese subjects were randomized into three administration sequences (testreference-reference, reference-reference-test, and reference-test-reference) to receive the Ruiyirong or Myfortic treatment on days I, 8, and 15. Results: The 90% confidential interval (Cl) of the geometric mean ratios (tesl/reference) of maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), the AUC from lime 0 to the last timepoint (AUCo,), and the AUC from 0 to infinity (AUCo-oo) was 92.90%-l 10.57%, 96.91%-101.80%, and 96.71 %-10l .84%, respectively. All these values fell into the bioequivalence criteria of 80.00%-125.00% (based on the criteria of the Food and Drug Administration). The adverse events were 10.4% in Ruiyirong test group and 14.6% in Myfortic reference group. Eight equations for estimating the AUC of the Ruiyirong test and Myfortic reference formulations were evaluated; most of them worked well with the R-value >0.8. Among the four chosen equations, the intragroup verification exhibited a high agreement with the R-value ranging from 0.857 to 0.971 and with the low predictive error (PE 5% with absolute PE > 15%). Meanwhile, the intergroup verification indicated a high inter-agreement with the R-value ranging from 0.896 to 0.974 (all P < 0.001). Conclusion: The Ruiyirong test vs. Myfortic reference formulations meet the bioequivalent criteria and are well tolerated. The further linear regression analysis explores eight equations predicting the AUC value and the chosen four equations for the Ruiyirong test and Mayfortic reference formulations are interchangeable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of two surfactants (Polysorbate 80 – Tween 80 and Sodium Dodecyl Benzensulphonate – SDBS) for the remediation of hydrocarbon-contaminated soil. To study the effectiveness of these surfactants, an experimental laboratory-scale apparatus was set up for the simulation of a soil flushing intervention. Different surfactant concentrations and flushing flow rates were investigated. At the end of the experiments, the removal efficiency was evaluated and phytotoxicity tests were performed by means of germination index (GI). Results showed that the use of both surfactants allows to reach high removal efficiency (∼50% for Tween 80 and ∼70% for SDBS) of hydrocarbons from soil and that either the surfactant concentration and the contact time between surfactant and contaminant affected the extraction performance. GI results showed different effects of the two surfactants on the phytotoxic features of the soil after treatment. Indeed, while the soil treated with SDBS was found to be more phytotoxic, leading to a lowering of the GI (10.88 %), the soil samples flushed with Tween 80 were characterized by higher values (146.61%). These results might be of interest in the case of surfactant application in remediation interventions in soils intended for future agricultural activity. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane transport proteins require a gating mechanism that opens and closes the substrate transport pathway to carry out unidirectional transport. The "gating" involves large conformational changes and is achieved via multistep reactions. However, these elementary steps have not been clarified for most transporters due to the difficulty of detecting the individual steps. Here, we propose these steps for the gate opening of the bacterial Na+ pump rhodopsin, which outwardly pumps Na+ upon illumination. We herein solved an asymmetric dimer structure of Na+ pump rhodopsin from the bacterium Indibacter alkaliphilus. In one protomer, the Arg108 sidechain is oriented toward the protein center and appears to block a Na+ release pathway to the extracellular (EC) medium. In the other protomer, however, this sidechain swings to the EC side and then opens the release pathway. Assuming that the latter protomer mimics the Na+-releasing intermediate, we examined the mechanism for the swing motion of the Arg108 sidechain. On the EC surface of the first protomer, there is a characteristic cluster consisting of Glu10, Glu159, and Arg242 residues connecting three helices. In contrast, this cluster is disrupted in the second protomer. Our experimental results suggested that this disruption is a key process. The cluster disruption induces the outward movement of the Glu159-Arg242 pair and simultaneously rotates the seventh transmembrane helix. This rotation resultantly opens a space for the swing motion of the Arg108 sidechain. Thus, cluster disruption might occur during the photoreaction and then trigger sequential conformation changes leading to the gate-open state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrothermal Iron-oxide-Cu-Au (IOCG) deposits are important exploration targets for a number of metals of economic importance. Voluminous sodium metasomatism is ubiquitous in most IOCG provinces. The origin of the metasomatic fluid responsible for the formation of albite-rich rocks in such terranes is contentious; both evaporite-derived fluid and magmatic fluid have been advocated. The Singhbhum IOCG province in India is known for hosting several polymetallic deposits from which U, Cu, and apatite-magnetite are mined as principal commodities together with Ni, Au, Ag, Se, Te, Mo, and low-Ti magnetite as by-products. Voluminous albite-rich rocks occur at several sites along the mineralized belt. Metasomatic albite schist comprising predominantly albite and quartz at Pathargora contains tourmaline intricately associated with albite. Based on textures and mineralogical associations, tourmaline is classified as: tur 1 : coarse nodular tourmaline ± albite ± magnetite aggregate; tur 2 : disseminated fine-grained tourmaline in a schistose matrix; and tur 3 : tourmaline + biotite + magnetite + apatite clots. All tourmaline belongs to the alkali group and most to the dravite sub-group. Very low concentrations of Li (avg 3.8 ppm), Zn (avg 6 ppm) and Mn (avg 21 ppm) but high V (avg 2130 ppm) and Ni (avg 306.5 ppm) in tur 1 core (tur 1c) co-genetic with albite contrast with what is reported in magmatic/magmatic-hydrothermal tourmaline of granitic affinity. The δ11B values of tourmaline are mostly positive, ranging between –4.0 and 9.2 ‰ (avg 4.0 ± 3.0; n = 79); values of tur 1 cores are 4.9–9.2 ‰. Previous fluid inclusion studies described the presence of halite and barite daughter crystals in primary fluid inclusions and demonstrated the involvement of a high-temperature (≥450 °C) and high-salinity (≥50 wt% NaCl equivalent) brine in the formation of cores of tur 1. Calculated δ11B values of the hydrothermal fluid in equilibrium with tur 1c range from 7.3 to 11.5 ‰ (for a crystallization temperature of 450 °C). Based on the textural setting of the tur 1c -albite assemblage, geochemical and boron isotope composition of tur 1c , and evidence of a high saline brine, we propose that the albite schist is the product of Na-metasomatism by brines that derived major constituents from the dissolution of marine evaporite. The inferred paleo-latitude and geological environment of sedimentation related to the host lithologies are consistent with the evaporitic model. We further suggest that a similar mechanism might have played an important role in the formation of albite-rich rocks in other IOCG provinces where the involvement of evaporite-derived fluids in mineralization/alteration have been demonstrated. Similar major element, trace element and positive boron isotope (1.5–6.3 ‰) composition of tur 3 suggest similar source of fluid as that of tur 1c , and tur 3 formed either during the same alteration event or during a separate fluid pulse. On the other hand, the mode of occurrence, very low trace element concentration and weakly negative to positive δ11B (−4 to 2.3 ‰) value of tur 2 suggest their metamorphic origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly stable Na anode/solid-state electrolyte (SSE) interface is vital for engineering robust solid-state sodium metal battery (SSMB). To ensure the flatness and remove the surface impurities of SSE, ceramic SSE pellets commonly require to be polished. However, there are lack of standardized instructions about the polish procedure even though researchers have realized that the properties of Na/SSE interface could be influenced dramatically by the surface microstructure of SSE pellet. In this work, the Na 3.3 Zr 1.7 Pr 0.3 Si 2 PO 12 SSE pellets were polished transversely and longitudinally by sandpaper with various mesh sizes on purpose for engineering Na/SSE interfaces. It is discovered that the compatibility and wettability of Na on SSE pellets could be tuned by polish procedure due to the resultant variation of roughness, contact area and ravines. By optimizing surface microstructure of SSE pellets through polishing, the assembled symmetrical battery delivers the highest critical current density of 0.55 mA cm−2 and the lowest interface impedance (11.8 Ω cm2) at room temperature, enabling the stably cycling for 5000 h at 0.1 mA cm−2. This work sheds light on the strong correlations between polish-induced surface-microstructural changes of SSE and interface stability of Na/SSE, providing a rational reference for SSE polishing when assembling SSMB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most nutrition guidelines recommend avoiding foods with added salt for infants aged 6–12 months. However, the reason for no added salt lacks enough and reliable evidence. We re-searched and re-studied the relevant evidence. We searched PubMed and the Cochrane database for English-language studies published from 1904 through 2021. We also searched the databases of the websites of different national institutions. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs), systematic reviews, observational studies, and dietary guidelines were included in this review. The kidneys of infants aged 6–12 months have adequate sodium excretion capacity. There is insufficient evidence that high salt (sodium) intake early in life might lead to hypertension or salty diet preference in adults. Infants aged 6–12 months might be at risk of low sodium intake of only 150–300 mg of sodium/day, which may not meet the body's needs, if their supplementary food is not adequately salted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The urgent need for high-performance sodium batteries has drawn great attention to the development of novel solid-state electrolyte systems. However, it is still a great challenge to obtain excellent ionic conductivity and interfacial stability performance for most solid-state electrolytes. In this study, a new NASICON-type solid-state electrolyte Na 3.1+x Zr 2−x Sc x Si 2.1 P 0.9 O 12 (donated as NZSSP, x = 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25, 0.3) was successfully prepared by solid-phase method. Due to the aliovalent substitution of Sc3+/Si4+, the phase transition or unwanted rhombohedral phase is effectively suppressed, the Na+ transport channel bottlenecks are greatly enlarged, and the concentration of Na+ is largely increased, giving rise to the significant improvement of the ionic conductivity and stability of NZSSP solid-state electrolyte. The Na 3.35 Zr 1.75 Sc 0.25 Si 2.1 P 0.9 O 12 solid-state electrolyte has an ultra-high ionic conductivity of 4.92 mS cm−1 at room temperature. Meanwhile, it shows an excellent sodium plating/stripping stability by the optimization of the Na+ transport channel. The critical current density of the Na//Na 3.35 Zr 1.75 Sc 0.25 Si 2.1 P 0.9 O 12 //Na symmetric battery is achieved up to 1.0 mA cm−2, and it can stably cycle for nearly 3000 h at 0.1 mA cm−2 or 1000 h at 0.5 mA cm−2 at room temperature. A detailed analysis of these aliovalent dual element substitution samples has been performed, and the mechanism of the conductivity enhancement is discussed systematically. This study can provide a feasible method to improve the ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability of NZSP materials and paves a way for the application of all-solid-state sodium batteries. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1- x)[0.82Bi 0.5 Na 0.5 TiO 3 -0.18Bi 0.5 K 0.5 TiO 3 ]- x AgNbO 3 ceramics (abbreviated as BNKT-100 x AN , x = 0–0.06) are fabricated by the solid state reaction method. It is discovered that silver niobate is completely dissolved into the lattice of 0.82Bi 0.5 Na 0.5 TiO 3 -0.18Bi 0.5 K 0.5 TiO 3 ceramics based on characterization. The relaxation mechanism and characteristics of BNKT-100 x AN ceramics are analyzed by dielectric temperature spectra and AC impedance spectra. The content of ordered domains and PNRs of BNKT-4AN ceramics is optimum, which enables it possess excellent electrostrain of 0.51%. The electrostrain almost remain constant after the 104 cycles test, suggesting that it also has great fatigue resistance. After polarization at high temperature, large electrostrain of 1.4% and inverse piezoelectric constants of 2004 pm/V are obtained at 150 °C in BNKT-4AN ceramics. The ultrahigh electrostrain is mainly promoted by the larger polarizability of the <111>-oriented and <001>-oriented defect dipoles, the same direction of defect dipoles and the spontaneous polarization direction of phase, the pinning effects of the defect dipoles on the PNRs and the collinear arrangement of the PNRs. This work indicates that lead-free piezoelectric ceramics is hopeful to be applied in piezoelectrics working at high temperature. Simultaneously, a new design paradigm also is provided for the preparation of piezoelectric ceramics with excellent performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the Global Burden of Disease Study, 3 million deaths were attributable to high sodium intake and low intake of whole grains. With the rapid evolution of the food industry, we hypothesize that dietary intake of sodium has increased and that dietary intake of whole grains or fibers has decreased because of easier access to highly processed food. Country-level data on dietary factors and country income levels from 1990 to 2018 were collected from 3 public databases. The trend of dietary intake was modeled using the linear mixed model accounting for random effects of individual countries. The country-level differences in dietary factors between males and females were calculated, and the trends were also modeled accounting for the random effects of countries. Both males and females consumed increasing amounts of dietary sodium from 1990 to 2018 in high-income, middle- to high-, middle-, and low-income countries. Dietary fiber intake increased in low-to-middle, middle-, and middle-to-high income countries for both men and women over the past 3 decades. Men tend to consume more sodium and less fiber and whole grains in their diets than women, the trend of which is statistically significant in middle-income countries. Over the past 3 decades, the macrotrend of dietary sodium has increased around the globe. To reduce the sodium intake level, nutrition policy should emphasize sodium reduction, especially in high-income, middle- to high-income, middle-income, and low-income countries. Global landscape for dietary sodium and whole grains from 1990 to 2018. The graphical abstract describes the consumption of dietary sodium and fiber from 1990 to 2018 by country income levels. Low-income countries consume higher levels of dietary fibers, whereas middle-income countries consume higher levels of sodium. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the role of Na+ on ruminal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) absorption and barrier function when isolated ruminal epithelium was exposed to high and low pH ex vivo. Nine Holstein steer calves (322 ± 50.9 kg of body weight) consuming 7.05 ± 1.5 kg dry matter of a total mixed ration were euthanized and ruminal tissue was collected from the caudal-dorsal blind sac. Tissues were mounted between 2 halves of Ussing chambers (3.14 cm2) and exposed to buffers that contained low (10 m M) or high (140 m M) Na+ with low (6.2) or high (7.4) mucosal pH. The same buffer solutions were used on the serosal side except that pH was maintained at 7.4. Buffers used to evaluate SCFA uptake contained bicarbonate to determine total uptake or excluded bicarbonate and included nitrate to determine noninhibitable uptake. Bicarbonate-dependent uptake was calculated as the difference between the total and noninhibitable uptake. Acetate (25 m M) and butyrate (25 m M) were spiked with 2-3H-acetate and 1-14C-butyrate, respectively, and were then added to the mucosal side, incubated for 1 min, and tissues were analyzed to evaluate rates of SCFA uptake. Tissue conductance (G t) and the mucosal-to-serosal flux of 1-3H-mannitol were used to assess barrier function. There were no Na+ × pH interactions for butyrate or acetate uptake. Decreasing mucosal pH from 7.4 to 6.2 increased total acetate and butyrate uptake, and bicarbonate-dependent acetate uptake. Flux of 1-3H-mannitol was not affected by treatment. However, high Na+ concentration reduced G t and prevented an increase in G t from flux period 1 to flux period 2. The results of this study indicate that although providing more Na+ to the ruminal epithelium does not affect SCFA uptake or mannitol flux, it may help stabilize tissue integrity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium titanates represent a promising alternative for the construction of anodes for sodium-ion batteries. To study the electrical response of nanostructured sodium titanate samples under plausible temperature conditions, we evaluate the electrical impedance in the range of temperatures from −30 ∘ C to 50 ∘ C, and the effect of consecutive temperature cycling. Strong changes in electrical properties are observed during the first temperature cycle, followed by a stabilization in the consecutive cycles. This behavior is reversible when the sample is exposed to external conditions and room temperature for less than an hour. Probably a structural and surface water removal and a surface water reabsorption occur, affecting the charge carriers and with it the impedance. Structurally, no differences are detected before and after the cycles, nor when evaluating only the vacuum process. However, when the optical properties are evaluated we find non-reversible changes after the temperature cycles. The optical behavior after the temperature cycling becomes uniform, the same type of electronic defects become predominant and similar direct and indirect band gap values are obtained, regardless of the starting synthesis condition. These results have significant implications for potential technological applications of these materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An insight into the interaction between NO and Na-loaded char is essential to improve the catalytic ability of Na to NO reduction, which will be useful to lower NO emissions during thermal utilization of sodium-containing fuels. Here, the intrinsic kinetics mechanisms for the catalytic reduction of NO by Na-loaded char were discussed in details. Using density functional theory (DFT) calculations, possible reaction pathways were first obtained, followed by evaluation of the rate coefficients through transition state theory (TST) calculations. On this basis, the analyses of both sensitivity and rate of products (ROP) were performed to illustrate the intrinsic kinetic mechanism for the NO reduction by Na-loaded char in a certain combustion condition, with an emphasis on the effects of temperature and NO-to-CO stoichiometric ratio. Results indicated that the catalytic active center –O Na plays an important role in the catalytic reduction of NO by Na-loaded char. Specifically, in most cases, the interaction of NO with Na-loaded char largely depends on the elementary reaction of CN O-Na+NO+CO→21-IM3+CO 2. As the stoichiometric ratio of NO to CO increases, the C O-Na+2NO→8-IM4+N 2 becomes increasingly dominant. Moreover, higher temperature causes the CN O-Na+NO→20- P + N 2 O as the dominant reaction. Nonetheless, one thing that these reactions have in common is that they are all related to the catalytic active center –O Na. Therefore, the NO reduction Na-loaded char largely depends on the interaction of NO with the carbonaceous surface containing –O Na. Inspired by this, a conceptual approach was proposed to improve the catalytic performance of Na on NO reduction, and it has been shown to be theoretically feasible. To summarize, the combination of DFT, TST and kinetic calculations is useful to clarify the interaction between NO with Na-loaded char, and it gives a basis for the development of micro-kinetic model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study applied a novel technique; dynamic vapour sorption (DVS) with in-situ Raman spectroscopy, as well as complementary techniques of attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction, to investigate the effect of sodium content on the immediate aqueous reactivity and reactions of a range of melt-quench-derived binary sodium borate glasses (SBGs): xNa 2 O-(100-x)B 2 O 3 (x = 18, 23, 30 and 35 mol%). DVS gravimetrically measured the effect of controlled relative humidity (RH) values on SBGs, while in-situ Raman monitored their structural changes in real time. It was found that the glass boron coordination, glass transition temperature, as well as weight change and percentage of crystallinity post exposure to vapour, along with threshold % RH to initiate sorption, and threshold time to initiate crystallization under 90% RH demonstrated the anomalous variation with increasing sodium content in glasses. Relative to other formulations, 30Na 2 O–70B 2 O 3 showed the lowest weight change and crystallinity after vapour desorption, and highest threshold % RH and longest threshold time. There was also a correlation between vapour- and water-induced reactions, as determined by reaction rates and structural changes. Specifically, lower glass network connectivity or non-bridging oxygen formation fostered their crystallization when exposed to either vapour or water, leading to higher weight change in aqueous environments. In sum, the results of this study validated the coupling of DVS with in-situ Raman spectroscopy in characterizing the reactivity and mechanisms of aqueous interactions of SBGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]