Search

Retinoids are known to improve the condition of the skin. Transepithelial transport of sodium and chloride ions is important for proper skin function. So far, the effect of applying vitamin A preparations to the skin on ion transport has not been evaluated. In the study, electrophysiological parameters, including transepithelial electric potential (PD) and transepithelial resistance (R), of rabbit skin specimens after 24 h exposure to retinol ointment (800 mass units/g) were measured in a modified Ussing chamber. The R of the fragments incubated with retinol was significantly different than that of the control skin samples incubated in iso-osmotic Ringer solution. For the controls, the PD values were negative, whereas the retinol-treated specimens revealed positive PD values. Mechanical–chemical stimulation with the use of inhibitors of the transport of sodium (amiloride) or chloride (bumetanide) ions revealed specific changes in the maximal and minimal PD values measured for the retinol-treated samples. Retinol was shown to slightly modify the transport pathways of sodium and chloride ions. In particular, an intensification of the chloride ion secretion from keratinocytes was observed. The proposed action may contribute to deep hydration and increase skin tightness, limiting the action of other substances on its surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Blood pressure (BP) is characterized by a circadian rhythm (Circr) with lower nighttime values, called dipping. Non-dipping is associated with higher CVD risk. The Circr of urinary sodium excretion (NaCle), peaking during the day, is linked to BP patterns. Physical activity (PA) is known to improve BP control and enhance the dipping phenomenon, but its possible effect on NaCle remains unclarified. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between PA and the Circr of NaCle and to determine if the relationship is independent of age, sex, BP values, dipping pattern, and salt intake. Methods: A pilot cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from the Ticino Epidemiological Stiffness Study, involving 953 participants in Switzerland. Data collection included standardized questionnaires, blood samples, 24 h urine collections, and ambulatory BP monitoring. Participants were categorized into sedentary, partially active, and active. The effect of PA, NaCl intake, and dipping on the day/night NaCle ratio was assessed with multivariable linear regressions. Results: Participants' median age was 49 years, with 78% having normal BP values and 47% exhibiting a dipping pattern; 51% were classified as sedentary and 22% as partially active. The median NaCl intake was 7.9 g/day. The youngest subjects had a higher hourly NaCle ratio compared to older subjects. Higher NaCl intake correlated with increased BP, a phenomenon more pronounced in men and younger subjects. The hourly day/night NaCle ratio positively correlates with dipping; however, PA did not show a significant correlation with the NaCle ratio. Conclusions: This study indicates that while the day/night NaCle ratio correlates with the dipping pattern, PA is unrelated to the circadian rhythm of renal sodium handling. The beneficial effects of PA on BP and cardiovascular health thus appear to be mediated through mechanisms other than NaCle. These are explorative findings only but relativize the need for further investigations on the topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases, which are the leading cause of death in Croatia, are linked to the high prevalence of hypertension. Both are associated with high salt intake, which was determined almost two decades ago when Croatian Action on Salt and Health (CRASH) was launched. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate salt, potassium, and iodine intake using a single 24 h urine sample in a random sample of the adult Croatian population and to analyse trends in salt consumption after the CRASH was intensively started. Methods: In this study, we analysed data on 1067 adult participants (mean age 57.12 (SD 13.9), men 35%). Results: Mean salt and potassium intakes were 8.6 g/day (IQR 6.2–11.2) and 2.8 g/day (IQR 2.1–3.5), respectively, with a sodium-to-potassium ratio of 2.6 (IQR 1.8–3.3). We detected a decrease of 17.6% (2 g/day less) in salt consumption compared with our previous salt-mapping study. However, only 13.7% and 8.9% met the WHO salt and potassium recommended targets of 5 g/day and 3.5 g/day, respectively. Salt intake was higher, and potassium ingestion was lower, in rural vs. urban regions and in continental vs. Mediterranean parts of Croatia. Moderate to severe iodine insufficiency was determined in only 3% of the adult participants. Conclusion: In the last fifteen years, salt consumption has been significantly reduced in the Croatian adult population because of the intensive and broad CRASH program. However, salt intake is still too high, and potassium ingestion is too low. Salt reduction programs are the most cost-effective methods of cardiovascular disease prevention and merit greater consideration by the government and health policy makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In ion chromatography studies, the matrix effect of other inorganic ions present in the sample is a well-known phenomenon. In this work, the behavior of inorganic and organic ions was studied in a system overloaded with ammonium ions. The ammonium ions came from a solution of ammonium hydroxide in various concentrations (0.25–1.25%). In this system, which was significantly overloaded with ammonium ions, the behavior of three ions were tested (lithium, tris, and sodium cations). The measurements were performed at different eluent concentrations (6–17 mM), chromatographic column temperatures (25–40 °C), and injected volumes (15–40 µ L). The retention times of sodium and lithium ions increased with increasing amounts of injected ammonium, while tris remained essentially unchanged, indicating that the resolution of these ions can be influenced by varying the concentration of the matrix. The results suggested that the observed effect was due to a combination of the pH change caused by the injected matrix, the dissociation of tris ions, the dissociation of the carbocylic ion-exchange groups of stationary phase, the change in buffer capacity, and the amount of ammonium ion introduced. It has been shown that in a well-designed experiment, the addition of ammonium hydroxide to the sample at concentrations greater than 1% can improve the efficiency of organic and inorganic cation separation. It was found that 8 mM methanesulfonic acid eluent, 30 °C, 1% ammonium hydroxide matrix concentration, and 25 µ L injection were optimal for the baseline separation of tris and sodium ions on the high-capacity Dionex CS16 column. These ions could not be separated on this column without the presence of the ammonium matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The signaling complex around voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels includes accessory proteins and kinases crucial for regulating neuronal firing. Previous studies showed that one such kinase, WEE1—critical to the cell cycle—selectively modulates Nav1.2 channel activity through the accessory protein fibroblast growth factor 14 (FGF14). Here, we tested whether WEE1 exhibits crosstalk with the AKT/GSK3 kinase pathway for coordinated regulation of FGF14/Nav1.2 channel complex assembly and function. Using the in-cell split luciferase complementation assay (LCA), we found that the WEE1 inhibitor II and GSK3 inhibitor XIII reduce the FGF14/Nav1.2 complex formation, while the AKT inhibitor triciribine increases it. However, combining WEE1 inhibitor II with either one of the other two inhibitors abolished its effect on the FGF14/Nav1.2 complex formation. Whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings of sodium currents (INa) in HEK293 cells co-expressing Nav1.2 channels and FGF14-GFP showed that WEE1 inhibitor II significantly suppresses peak INa density, both alone and in the presence of triciribine or GSK3 inhibitor XIII, despite the latter inhibitor's opposite effects on INa. Additionally, WEE1 inhibitor II slowed the tau of fast inactivation and caused depolarizing shifts in the voltage dependence of activation and inactivation. These phenotypes either prevailed or were additive when combined with triciribine but were outcompeted when both WEE1 inhibitor II and GSK3 inhibitor XIII were present. Concerted regulation by WEE1 inhibitor II, triciribine, and GSK3 inhibitor XIII was also observed in long-term inactivation and use dependency of Nav1.2 currents. Overall, these findings suggest a complex role for WEE1 kinase—in concert with the AKT/GSK3 pathway—in regulating the Nav1.2 channelosome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease that affects more than 10.5% of the world's adult population. Biochemical and hematological parameters, such as albumin (ALB) and red cell distribution width (RDW), have been shown to be altered in diabetic patients. This study aimed to correlate hematological and biochemical parameters with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). A total of 777 adults (372 women and 405 men, aged 19–85 years) were divided into three groups: 218 participants with HbA1c < 5.7% (group A: non-diabetic), 226 with HbA1c ≥ 5.7% and <6.5% (group B: prediabetic) and 333 with HbA1c ≥ 6.5% (group C: diabetic). Biochemical and hematological parameters were compared among the three groups. An analysis of variance was performed to determine the correlations of the parameters among the groups. The ALB and sodium (Na) levels were significantly lower in group C than in groups A (ALB: 3.8 g/dL vs. 4.1 g/dL, p < 0.0001, Na: 138.4 mmol/L vs. 139.3 mmol/L, p < 0.001) and B (ALB: 3.8 g/dL vs. 4.0 g/dL, p < 0.0001, Na: 138.4 mmol/L vs. 139.6 mmol/L, p < 0.0001), whereas the RDW-standard deviation (RDW-SD) and urea were increased in group C as compared to group A (RDW: 45.8 vs. 43.9 fL, p < 0.0001, urea: 55.6 mg/dL vs. 38.5 mg/dL, p < 0.0001). The mean platelet volume (MPV) was increased in group C as compared to group A (9.3 fL vs. 9.1 fL, p < 0.05, respectively). Τhe increase in RDW-SD in group A as compared to B and C demonstrates the impact of hyperglycemia on red blood cells. Albumin and RDW might improve risk assessment for the development of diabetes. These results highlight the potential role of these parameters as an indication for prediabetes that would alert for measurement of HbA1c. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case report focuses on what patients and family members may experience when a neurological trauma transpires and resultant intensive care (ICU) delirium occurs. It is the personal account of the patient (A.B.) and spouse's (R.G.B.) perspectives when the patient (A.B) suffered a vertebral artery aneurysm and hemorrhage and experienced intensive care unit (ICU) delirium after being in the ICU for 22 days. This case report provides the patient's and spouse's perspectives regarding delirium, i.e., A.B.'s inability to discern reality, loss of memory, paranoia and hallucinations, agency and recovery, post-ICU syndrome, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Clinical diagnosis by the neurosurgeon indicated delirium, with treatment consisting of sleep sedation and uninterrupted sleep. A.B. was able to regain consciousness yet experienced post-traumatic stress disorder up to one year afterward. Consistent family participation in the patient's delirium care is crucial. Family member care and family-centered strategies are provided with implications for future research and health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar is a soil amendment that has the potential to effectively improve soil salinization. However, there is a paucity of studies on sodium adsorption using biochar, and the adsorption mechanism remains unclear. To better understand the adsorption mechanism of Na+ on the surface of biochar, both pyrochar and hydrochar were produced at different temperatures. The capacity and influencing factors of Na+ adsorption in biochar were analyzed via batch adsorption experiments. Pore filling dominated the Na+ adsorption in the concentration of the NaCl solution when it was ≤100 mg/L, where wheat straw pyrochar (WB, 3.95–4.94 mg/g Na) and poplar wood chip pyrochar (PB, 0.62–0.70 mg/g Na) presented the release and adsorption of Na+, respectively. When the concentration of the NaCl solution was >100 mg/L, the adsorption capacity of WB (25.44–36.45 mg/g) was significantly higher than PB (4.46–6.23 mg/g). Both the adsorption and release of Na+ in hydrochar was insufficient. In a high concentration of NaCl solution, ion exchange became the key mechanism determining the adsorption of Na+ in pyrochar, in which K+ contributed to more than 94% of the Na+ adsorption. The findings proposed strategies for the structural design of biochar used for Na adsorption. These will promote the utilization of solid biowaste for sodium adsorption and the potential of soil salinization amendment for agriculture in arid lands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcohol hangover (veisalgia) is a fairly common phenomenon. The pathogenesis of veisalgia is not understood and treatment has not yet been established. Occasionally, students take N-acetylcysteine (NAC) before binge drinking to alleviate hangover. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of NAC on serum levels of electrolytes, enzymes, oxidative stress biomarkers and symptoms of veisalgia in binge drinking. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, healthy students were randomly assigned into two groups: one receiving NAC and the other receiving a placebo. Blood samples were taken before drinking, 30 min after a 1.5 h long drinking session, and the subsequent morning. Serum levels of electrolytes, urea, enzymes, ethanol, 8-Hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and N-epsilon-hexanoyl-lysine were measured. The participants completed the Acute Hangover Severity Scale (AHSS) assessment based on symptoms, and 40 students (20 male), aged 23 ± 2 years, were included in the study. Their mean blood ethanol concentration was 1.4 g/kg. Serum sodium levels were increased after drinking, and urea decreased the following morning compared to their levels before drinking in both groups. Serum 8-OHdG levels were increased after drinking and remained elevated until the following morning, compared to the levels before drinking, in both groups. NAC had no effect on sodium, urea and 8-OHdG levels or the symptoms of veisalgia. In conclusion, binge drinking causes a transient increase in serum sodium and as a prolonged increase in oxidative marker 8-OHdG levels. NAC had no effect on the sodium and 8-OHdG levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases account for almost 18 million deaths annually, the most of all non-communicable diseases. The reduction of dietary salt consumption is a modifiable risk factor. The WHO recommends a daily sodium intake of <2000 mg but average consumption exceeds this in many countries globally. Strategies proposed to aid effective salt reduction policy include product reformulation, front of pack labelling, behavioural change campaigns and establishing a low-sodium-supportive environment. Yet, salt for household and processed food use is, in countries wholly or partially adopting a universal salt iodisation policy, the principal vehicle for population-wide iodine fortification. With salt reduction policies in place, there is concern that iodine deficiency disorders may re-emerge. Recognising the urgency to tackle the rising prevalence of NCDs yet not risk the re-emergence and detrimental effect of inadequate iodine intakes, this review lays out the feasibility of integrating both salt reduction and salt iodine fortification strategies. Reducing the burden of health risks associated with an excessive sodium intake or inadequate iodine through population-tailored, cost-effective strategies involving salt is both feasible and achievable, and represents an opportunity to improve outcomes in public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The encapsulation of sodium sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin (SBE-β-CD) is influenced not only by the degree of substitution (DS) but also by the presence of strong-bonded water (SBW). Guests compete with SBW for positions within the cavity of SBE-β-CD. However, the correlation between DS and SBW was not clear. This study revealed a positive correlation between DS and SBW utilizing Karl Fischer titration. The mechanism may be attributed to molecular polarizability. To explore the impact of SBW inside SBE-β-CD with different DS on encapsulation, density functional theory was employed. Throughout the release process, an increase in enthalpy is unfavorable, while an increase in entropy favors spontaneous reaction occurrence. For SBE-β-CD (DS = 2, 3), enthalpy increase is the primary factor, leading to the retention of SBW within the cavities and consequently hindering guest entry. In contrast, for SBE-β-CD (DS = 4, 7), the situation differs. For SBE10-β-CD, the influence of SBW is minimal. This study aims to elucidate the relationship between DS and SBW, as well as the effect of SBW inside SBE-β-CD with different DS on encapsulation. It is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the factors affecting the encapsulation of SBE-β-CD, thereby promoting quality control and functional development of SBE-β-CD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc stearate (Znst) was physically blended with the sodium 4-[(4 chlorobenzoyl) amino] benzoate (SCAB) to obtain the SCAB-Znst composite nucleating agent. Znst was used to improve the dispersion property of SCAB and exert a lubricating effect on the PP matrix. The scanning electron microscopy and the fracture surface morphology of the PP/SCAB composite illustrated that the addition of Znst greatly reduced the aggregation phenomenon of SCAB in the PP matrix. The result of the rotary rheometer indicated that Znst exhibits internal lubrication in PP. The DSC result illustrated that the crystallization properties of PP were improved. Compared with pure PP, the Tc of the PP/SCAB composite increased by 1.44 °C (PP/Znst), 13.48 °C (PP/SCAB), and 14.96 °C (PP/SCAB-Znst), respectively. The flexural strength of pure PP, PP/SCAB, and PP/SCAB-Znst were 35.8 MPa, 38.8 MPa, and 40.6 MPa, respectively. The tensile strength of the PP/SCAB and PP/SCAB-Znst reached the values of 39.8 MPa and 42.9 MPa, respectively, compared with pure PP (34.1 MPa). The results demonstrated that Znst can promote the dispersion of SCAB in the PP matrix while exerting a lubricating effect, which enabled the enhancement of the crystalline and mechanical properties of PP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hyperactivation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is linked to obesity, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes, which are characterized by elevated norepinephrine (NE) levels. Previous research has shown increased sodium-dependent glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1) protein levels in kidneys of hypertensive rodents, prompting investigation into the expression of SGLT1 in various tissues, such as skeletal muscle. This study aimed to assess (i) whether skeletal muscle cells and tissue express SGLT1 and SGLT2 proteins; (ii) if NE increases SGLT1 levels in skeletal muscle cells, and (iii) whether the skeletal muscle of neurogenically hypertensive mice exhibits increased SGLT1 expression. We found that (i) skeletal muscle cells and tissue are a novel source of the SGLT2 protein and that (ii) NE significantly elevated SGLT1 levels in skeletal muscle cells. As SGLT2 inhibition (SGLT2i) with Empagliflozin increased SGLT1 levels, in vivo studies with the dual inhibitor SGLT1/2i, Sotagliflozin were warranted. The treatment of neurogenically hypertensive mice using Sotagliflozin significantly reduced blood pressure. Our findings suggest that SNS activity upregulates the therapeutic target, SGLT1, in skeletal muscle, potentially worsening cardiometabolic control. As clinical trial data suggest cardiorenal benefits from SGLT2i, future studies should aim to utilize SGLT1i by itself, which may offer a therapeutic strategy for conditions with heightened SNS activity, such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The self-healing performance of an ethyl-cellulose-based gel coating with different corrosion inhibitors was investigated in this work. Various contents of 11 alkyl imidazoline (IMO-11) were pre-loaded into the gel coating. The EIS results of scratched coatings with inhibitors confirmed the self-healing performance of the coating. As the inhibitor contents increased, the improved self-healing effect was attributed to inhibitor release, while the increased inhibitor content would also affect the film-forming ability and mechanical properties of the composite coating, and lead to the accelerated failure of the coating. Different contents of thiourea and sodium oleate were added to the gel coating with 25% IMO-11. It was hoped that the hybrid inhibitor in the coating would obtain the synergistic effect of different inhibitors during the self-healing progress. The SEM and FT-IR results indicate the hybrid inhibitor was successfully loaded into the gel coating. The EIS and morphology results of scratched coatings confirmed the enhance effect of the synergistic inhibitor on the self-healing performance of the coating. The high content of the hybrid inhibitor could enhance the corrosion protection effect of the intact gel coating. Once the coating is damaged, the fast released inhibitor could extend the corrosion protection time. The synergistic effect difference of thiourea and sodium oleate with IMO-11 did not show much difference in the coating self-healing effect in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the association between in-hospital initiation of sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) and outcomes in hospitalized heart failure (HHF) patients utilizing data from a Greek center. Methods: The present work was a single-center, retrospective, observational study of consecutive HF patients hospitalized in a tertiary center. The study endpoint was all-cause mortality or HF rehospitalization. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional-hazard models were conducted to investigate the association between SGLT2i administration at discharge and the study endpoint. Results: Sample consisted of 171 patients, 55 of whom (32.2%) received SGLT2is at discharge. Overall, mean follow-up period was 6.1 months (SD = 4.8 months). Patients who received SGLT2is at discharge had a 43% lower probability of the study endpoint compared to those who did not receive SGLT2is at discharge (HR = 0.57; 95% CI: 0.36–0.91; p = 0.018). After adjusting for age, gender, smoking, hemoglobin (Hgb), use of SGLT2is at admission, use of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors (ACEI-Is)/Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) at discharge and Sacubitril/Valsartan at discharge, the aforementioned result remained significant (HR = 0.38; 95% CI: 0.19–0.73; p = 0.004). The 55 patients who received SGLT2is at discharge were propensity score matched with the 116 patients who did not receive SGLT2is at discharge. Receiving SGLT2is at discharge continued to be significantly associated with a lower probability of the study endpoint (HR= 0.43; 95% CI: 0.20–0.89; p = 0.024). Conclusions: Initiation of SGLT2is in HHF patients may be associated with better outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modified clays with organic molecules have many applications, such as the adsorption of pollutants, catalysts, and drug delivery systems. Different methodologies for intercalating these structures with organic moieties can be found in the literature with many purposes. In this paper, a new methodology of modifying Sodium Montmorillonite clays (Na-Mt) with a faster drying time was investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), BET, and thermogravimetric analysis (TG and DTG). In the modification process, a mixture of ethyl alcohol, DMSO, and Na-Mt were kept under magnetic stirring for one hour. Statistical analysis was applied to evaluate the effects of the amount of DMSO, temperature, and sonication time on the modified clay (DMSO-SMAT) using a 23-factorial design. XRD and FTIR analyses showed the DMSO intercalation into sodium montmorillonite Argel-T (SMAT). An average increase of 0.57 nm for the interplanar distance was found after swelling with DMSO intercalation. BET analysis revealed a decrease in the surface area (from 41.8933 m2/g to 2.1572 m2/g) of Na-Mt when modified with DMSO. The porosity increased from 1.74 (SMAT) to 1.87 nm (DMSO-SMAT) after the application of the methodology. Thermal analysis showed a thermal stability for the DMSO-SMAT material, and this was used to calculate the DMSO-SMAT formula of Na[Al5Mg]Si12O30(OH)6 · 0.54 DMSO. Statistical analysis showed that only the effect of the amount of DMSO was significant for increasing the interlayer space of DMSO-SMAT. In addition, at room temperature, the drying time of the sample using this methodology was 30 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allergic dermatitis is a skin disease with growing prevalence worldwide that has been associated with diets high in fats and sugars. Regular consumption of sucrose-containing beverages may increase the risk for several health problems, including allergic diseases and particularly asthma, but the association between sucrose consumption and allergic dermatitis is understudied. We investigated the effects of sucrose solution intake on allergic contact dermatitis in rats and found early exacerbation of 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-induced disease symptoms and altered composition of the gut microbiota after 14 d of intake. The levels of short-chain fatty acids—produced by fermentation by the intestinal microbiota—were not affected in the cecal contents and feces but decreased in the blood; this effect was especially notable for acetate. To restore blood acetate concentrations, triacetin was mixed with a 10% sucrose solution and fed to the rat model. This strategy prevented the early exacerbation of DNFB-induced symptoms. The decreased absorption of short-chain fatty acids from the intestinal lumen was not linked to the decreased expression of short-chain fatty acid transporters in the small intestine; instead, the mechanism involves a reduction in the sodium concentration in the intestinal lumen due to increased expression of sodium–glucose transporter 1 (SGLT1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the association between salt-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors (KAB) and salt excretion using the 24-hour (24 h) urinary collection method. Data were utilized from the Community-Based Management of Non-Communicable Diseases in Nepal (COBIN) Salt Survey, a community-based cross-sectional study conducted among a sub-sample of COBIN cohort in Pokhara Metropolitan City, Western Nepal, from July to December 2018, among adults aged 25–70 years. A total of 451 adults participated in the study, and a single 24 h urine sample was collected from each participant. The mean [(standard deviation (SD)] age of the participants was 49.6 (9.82) years, and the majority were female (65%). The mean urinary salt excretion was 13.28 (SD: 4.72) g/day, with 98% of participants consuming ≥5 g of salt/day. Although 83% of participants knew the risks of high salt intake and 87% believed it was important to reduce their intake, only 10% reported doing so. Salt-related attitude i.e., self-perceived salt intake was significantly associated with urinary salt excretion, adding extra salt to food, consuming processed foods, and taking actions to salt control. Participants who perceived themselves as consuming high salt had higher urinary salt excretion [(14.42 g/day; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 13.45, 15.39, p = 0.03)], were more likely to add extra [(Odds ratio (OR) = 3.59; 95% CI: 2.03, 6.33, p < 0.001)], and consume processed foods more often (OR = 1.90; 95% CI: 1.06, 3.40, p < 0.05) compared to those who self-perceived consuming a normal amount of salt. Conversely, participants who perceived themselves as consuming low salt were more likely to take actions to control salt intake (OR = 4.22; 95% CI: 1.90, 9.37, p < 0.001) compared to their counterparts who perceived consuming a normal amount of salt. There existed a gap between salt-related knowledge, attitudes, and actual behaviors, resulting in a high salt intake among the Nepalese population. Nepal urgently requires tailored national salt reduction programs that comprise both policy and community-level interventions to achieve a 30% reduction in mean population salt intake by 2025. Further validation studies are needed to assess the effectiveness of community-based intervention in Nepal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two U.S. cities require chain restaurants to label menu items that exceed 100% of the Daily Value (DV) for sodium, informing consumers and potentially prompting restaurant reformulation. To inform policy design for other localities, this study determined the percentage of the top 91 U.S. chain restaurants' menu items that would be labeled if a warning policy were established for menu items exceeding the thresholds of 20%, 33%, 50%, 65%, and 100% of the sodium DV for adults. We obtained U.S. chain restaurants' nutrition information from the 2019 MenuStat database and calculated the percentage of items requiring sodium warning labels across the food and beverage categories at all the restaurants and at the full- and limited-service restaurants separately. In total, 19,038 items were included in the analyses. A warning label covering items with >20%, >33%, >50%, >65%, and >100% of the sodium DV resulted in expected coverage of 42%, 30%, 20%, 13%, and 5% of menu items at all the restaurants, respectively. At each threshold, the average percentage of items labeled per restaurant was higher among the full-service restaurants than the limited-service restaurants. These results suggest that restaurant warning policies with a threshold of 100% of the sodium DV per item would cover a minority of high-sodium menu items and that lower thresholds should be considered to help U.S. consumers reduce their sodium consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Na1.36(Si0.86Ga0.14)2As2.98 and Li1.5Ga0.9Si3.1As4 were synthesized by heating mixtures of the elements at 950 °C. The crystal structures were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction (Na1.36(Si0.86Ga0.14)2As2.98: I41/a, Z = 100, a = 19.8772(4) Å, c = 37.652(1) Å; Li1.5Ga0.9Si3.1As4: C2/c, Z = 8, a = 10.8838(6) Å, b = 10.8821(6) Å, c = 13.1591(7) Å). Na1.36(Si0.86Ga0.14)2As2.98 crystallizes similar to NaSi2P3 with interpenetrating networks of vertex-sharing T4 and T5 supertetrahedra. Gallium substitution at the silicon sites increases the charge of the cluster network, which is compensated for by a 36% higher sodium content. Since in contrast to NaSi2P3, all sodium sites are now fully occupied, there is no significant ion mobility, as indicated by 23Na-NMR. Consequently, the total sodium-ion conductivity of Na1.36(Si0.86Ga0.14)2As2.98 amounts to only 1.6(1) × 10−7 S cm−1 and is therefore three orders of magnitude lower than in NaSi2P3. Li1.5Ga0.9Si3.1As4 crystallizes in a new structure type with layers of edge-sharing (Si1−xGax)As4 tetrahedra alternating with layers that contain infinite Sin zigzag chains. Lithium ions reside in channels between the chains, and thus, the structure does not provide three dimensional pathways for ion conduction and the measured total Li-ion conductivity amounts to only 1.3(1) × 10−7 S cm−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorescein sodium is a very important compound for a wide spectrum of applications, from which medical applications prevail. Despite this, there are very few studies in the literature related to the structure and fundamental properties of fluorescein sodium and its solutions, with most of the studies dealing with fluorescein. The purpose of the present article is to determine some parameters of the fluorescein sodium molecule approaching the quantum-mechanical modeling and experimental solvatochromism in both binary and ternary solutions. For data analysis, several theoretical models were applied. The results highlight the intermolecular interactions involved in the spectral shift of the electronic absorption band of fluorescein sodium when dissolved in different solvents or binary solvents and allowed the estimation of the difference between the interaction energy in molecular pairs of the type of fluorescein sodium − solvent 1 and fluorescein sodium − solvent 2. By applying a variational method, the dipole moment in the first excited state of the fluorescein sodium molecule and the angle between the dipole moments in the ground and excited states, respectively, were estimated. These results are useful for a better understanding of the behavior of fluorescein sodium when dissolved in different solvents or combinations of solvents, to develop new practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spent fermentation media from bioprocessing represent a significant waste stream, and interest in recycling them as part of the developing circular bioeconomy is growing. The potential to reuse yeast spent culture media (YSM) to feed secondary bacterial fermentations producing recombinant protein was investigated in this study. Elemental and amino acid compositional analysis using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and LC-MS/MS identified significant differences in the concentrations of 6 elements and 18/20 amino acids in YSM compared with rich microbiological media (LB). Restoration of levels of magnesium and sodium through addition of their salts and amino acids from tryptone supplementation led to the expression of equivalent titres of recombinant proteins by E. coli (0.275 g/L), compared to that in LB media (0.296 g/L) and BMMY media (0.294 g/L) in shake flask culture. When this supplementation strategy was employed in a bioreactor system, we observed a significant increase in recombinant protein titre using the supplemented YSM (2.29 (±0.02) g/L) over that produced using LB media (1.29 (±0.09) g/L). This study demonstrates through highly sensitive compositional analysis and identification of supplementation strategies the potential to valorise spent media from yeast fermentations that underpin industrial processes of significant scale, creating a circular approach to waste stream management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synergistic effect of sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS) on the flotation separation of magnesite and dolomite using sodium oleate (NaOL) as a collector has been studied through flotation experiments, zeta potential measurements, contact angle measurements, Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy analysis (FT-IR), particle size measurements and transmittance measurements. The flotation experiments show that when the synergist, SDBS, is added to the collector, NaOL, the collecting ability and ion resistance of NaOL can be improved so that the flotation separation of magnesite and dolomite can be realized. Zeta potential measurements, contact angle measurements and FT-IR analysis indicate that SDBS and NaOL can co-adsorb on the surface of magnesite. Particle size measurements and transmittance measurements show that SDBS can also improve the dispersion and solubility of NaOL in an aqueous solution, so as to achieve a synergistic effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a modified co-precipitation method, 11(2) nm γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles functionalized with PSSNa [Poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate)] saloplastic polymer were successfully synthesized, and their structural, vibrational, electronic, thermal, colloidal, hyperfine, and magnetic properties were systematically studied using various analytic techniques. The results showed that the functionalized γ-Fe2O3/PSSNa nanohybrid has physicochemical properties that allow it to be applied in the magnetic remediation process of water. Before being applied as a nanoadsorbent in real water treatment, a short-term acute assay was developed and standardized using a Daphnia magna biomarker. The ecotoxicological tests indicated that the different concentrations of the functionalized nanohybrid may affect the mortality of the Daphnia magna population during the first 24 h of exposure. A lethal concentration of 533(5) mg L−1 was found. At high concentrations, morphological changes were also seen in the body, heart, and antenna. Therefore, these results suggested the presence of alterations in normal growth and swimming skills. The main changes observed in the D. magna features were basically caused by the PSSNa polymer due to its highly stable colloidal properties (zeta potential > −30 mV) that permit a direct and constant interaction with the Daphnia magna neonates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A dual-emission ratio-fluorescent sensing nanohybrid based on Radix Hedysari green-synthesized carbon quantum dots (CDs) and glutathione-functionalized gold nanoclusters (GSH-AuNCs) had been developed for the determination of cefodizime sodium (CDZM). The designed fluorescence nanohybrid had two significant fluorescence emission peaks at 458 nm and 569 nm when excited at 360 nm, which was attributed to the CDs and GSH-AuNCs. With the addition of CDZM, the fluorescence at 458 nm was slightly weakened while the fluorescence at 569 nm was enhanced obviously. Based on the relationship between the I569/I458 fluorescence intensity ratio and the concentration of CDZM, the designed nanohybrid exhibited a good linearity range of 1.0–1000.0 μM and the limit of detection (LOD) was 0.19 μM. The method was finally applied in the detection of CDZM in urine, showing the potential applications in complicated biological samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on nanoarchitectonics and molecular dynamics simulations, we investigate the structural properties and diffusion pathway of Na atoms in sodium trisilicate over a wide temperature range. The structural and dynamics properties are analyzed through the radial distribution function (RDF), the Voronoi Si- and O-polyhedrons, the cluster function fCL(r), and the sets of fastest (SFA) and slowest atoms (SSA). The results indicate that Na atoms are not placed in Si-polyhedrons and bridging oxygen (BO) polyhedrons; instead, Na atoms are mainly placed in non-bridging oxygen (NBO) polyhedrons and free oxygen (FO) polyhedrons. Here BO, NBO, and FO represent O bonded with two, one, and no Si atoms, respectively. The simulation shows that O atoms in sodium trisilicate undergo numerous transformations: NBF0 ↔ NBF1, NBF1 ↔ NBF2, and BO0 ↔ BO1, where NBF is NBO or FO. The dynamics in sodium trisilicate are mainly distributed by the hopping and cooperative motion of Na atoms. We suppose that the diffusion pathway of Na atoms is realized via hopping Na atoms alone in BO-polyhedrons and the cooperative motion of a group of Na atoms in NBO- and FO-polyhedrons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste seashell (scallop shell)-based adsorbent was prepared via mechanochemical reaction with sodium oxalate using ball milling. The oxalate-modified seashell-based adsorbents (OS) were prepared by varying the molar ratio of calcium and oxalate to 0.5, 1, and 2. Sodium oxalate was used as the aqueous solution in ball milling. Lead ion adsorption was conducted with the prepared adsorbent. The adsorption behavior of lead ions was investigated in terms of adsorption kinetics and adsorption equilibrium. The time course of the amount of Pb adsorbed agreed well with Langmuir rate equation. The adsorption equilibrium relationship of OS adsorbent and Pb agreed well with the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Increasing with the molar ratio, the saturated amount of Pb adsorbed increased slightly from 5.45 × 10−3 to 6.23 × 10−3 mol/g. Under the present experimental conditions, the maximum equilibrium adsorption was 5.93 × 10−3 mol/g, which is greater than that reported in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction of sodium 2,2-dicyanoethene-1,1-bis(thiolate) with bromine (2 equiv.) in CCl4 gave 3,5-dibromoisothiazole-3-carbonitrile and 5,5′-thiobis(3-bromoisothiazole-4-carbonitrile) in 7% and 18% yields, respectively. The latter novel compound was fully characterized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This computational research study will compare the specific charge capacity (SCC) between lithium ions inserted into crystallized silicon (c-Si) nanowires with that of sodium ions inserted into amorphous silicon (a-Si) nanowires. It will be demonstrated that the potential energy V(r) within a lithium–silicon nanowire supports a coherent energy state model with discrete electron particles, while the potential energy of a sodium–silicon nanowire will be discovered to be essentially zero, and, thus, the electron current that travels through a sodiated silicon nanowire will be modeled as a free electron with wave-like characteristics. This is due to the vast differences in the electric fields of lithiated and sodiated silicon nanowires, where the electric fields are of the order of 10 10 V/m and 10 − 15 V/m, respectively. The main reason for the great disparity in electric fields is the presence of optical amplification within lithium ions and the absence of this process within sodium ions. It will be shown that optical amplification develops coherent optical interactions, which is the primary reason for the surge of specific charge capacity in the lithiated silicon nanowire. Conversely, the lack of optical amplification is the reason for the incoherent optical interactions within sodium ions, which is the reason for the low presence of SCC in sodiated silicon nanowires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-recycling sodium polyacrylate (SPA) derived from the selective recycling of personal hygiene products was tested as a potential key component of soil modifiers. Recycled SPA in combination with layered aluminosilicate (halloysite) with the sorption capacity of fertilizers allows for the creation of a fully functional, original system responsible for both water retention in soil and controlled dosing of fertilizers. The use of post-recycling SPA (possibly partially supplemented with virgin SPA) is advantageous for the natural environment. The results of different water types retention in post-recycling SPA (deionized water, rainwater, tap water) are discussed. The most beneficial effects of R-SPA swelling and water accumulation are achieved when it comes into contact with rainwater. The clear impact of Mg2+ ions on the sorption capacity of R-SPA introduces the need for a technological compromise between the solution composition (N, P, K or N, P, K, Mg) affecting its fertilization value and the possibility of obtaining maximum R-SPA swelling. The sorption capacity of R-SPA can be slightly increased by using R-SPA/V-SPA mixtures, but R-SPA still plays a decisive role in this system. The possibility of technological adjustment of the leaching rate of fertilizer components under dynamic conditions using different combinations of (R-SPA/V-SPA)/HAL was demonstrated by column tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aging behavior of microplastics (MPs) in the environment has garnered significant attention, yet the exact aging process undergone by microplastics during advanced oxidation still remains unclear. This study emphasized elucidating the oxidation and dechlorination mechanisms of polyvinyl chloride microplastics (PVC MPs) within the UV-activated sodium percarbonate system (UV/SPC). After 35 h of UV/SPC (0.05 M) treatment, it exhibited effective dechlorination with a Cl− release of 100.62 ± 13.17 mg/L. And this treatment resulted in the fragmentation and release of fragments from the PVC MPs, thereby contributing to their further aging and dechlorination. In addition, an increase in oxygen-containing functional groups was identified. Quenching experiments confirm that · O H and · C O 3 − are the primary active species present in the system. In summary, the aging of PVC MPs results in a process of fragmentation, releasing fragments that are more fragile and susceptible to mineralization compared to the original PVC MPs. The release of chloride ions originates from the mineralization of these fragments released from PVC MPs by · O H and · C O 3 − . This study has provided valuable insights into the aging mechanisms of MPs in practical wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sodium current (INa) reduction occurs in the setting of many acquired and inherited conditions and is associated with cardiac conduction slowing and increased arrhythmia risks. The sodium channel blocker mexiletine has been shown to restore the trafficking of mutant sodium channels to the membrane. However, these studies were mostly performed in heterologous expression systems using high mexiletine concentrations. Moreover, the chronic effects on INa in a non-diseased cardiomyocyte environment remain unknown. In this paper, we investigated the chronic and acute effects of a therapeutic dose of mexiletine on INa and the action potential (AP) characteristics in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) of a healthy individual. Control hiPSC-CMs were incubated for 48 h with 10 µM mexiletine or vehicle. Following the wash-out of mexiletine, patch clamp analysis and immunocytochemistry experiments were performed. The incubation of hiPSC-CMs for 48 h with mexiletine (followed by wash-out) induced a significant increase in peak INa of ~75%, without any significant change in the voltage dependence of (in)activation. This was accompanied by a significant increase in AP upstroke velocity, without changes in other AP parameters. The immunocytochemistry experiments showed a significant increase in membrane Nav1.5 fluorescence following a 48 h incubation with mexiletine. The acute re-exposure of hiPSC-CMs to 10 µM mexiletine resulted in a small but significant increase in AP duration, without changes in AP upstroke velocity, peak INa density, or the INa voltage dependence of (in)activation. Importantly, the increase in the peak INa density and resulting AP upstroke velocity induced by chronic mexiletine incubation was not counteracted by the acute re-administration of the drug. In conclusion, the chronic administration of a clinically relevant concentration of mexiletine increases INa density in non-diseased hiPSC-CMs, likely by enhancing the membrane trafficking of sodium channels. Our findings identify mexiletine as a potential therapeutic strategy to enhance and/or restore INa and cardiac conduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a severe infection of the cornea. Prevention and treatment are difficult due to the inefficacy of currently available compounds. The impact of many commonly used compounds for routine examinations of Acanthamoeba is unexplored but might offer insight useful in combatting AK. In this study, we demonstrate that sodium metabisulfite, a common preservation constituent of eye care solutions, was found to be active against Acanthamoeba trophozoites at concentrations lower than that commonly found in eye drops (IC50 0.03 mg/mL). We demonstrate that sodium metabisulfite depletes thiamine from growth medium and that Acanthamoeba is a thiamine auxotroph, requiring thiamine salvage for growth. The inhibitory effects of sodium metabisulfite can be overcome by thiamine supplementation. These results are consistent with the lack of key enzymes for thiamine biosynthesis in the genome of Acanthamoeba, an area which might prove exploitable using new or existing compounds. Indeed, this study highlights sodium metabisulfite as a useful inhibitor of Acanthamoeba castellanii trophozoites in vitro and that it acts, at least in part, by limiting available thiamine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organization recommends adjusting salt intake as a part of the nine global targets to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable chronic diseases as a priority and the most cost-effective intervention. In 2006, the main aim of the Croatian Action on Salt and Health was to decrease salt intake by 16% because of its critical intake and consequences on human health. We have organized educative activities to increase awareness on salt harmfulness, define food categories of prime interest, collaborate with industries and determine salt intake (24 h urine sodium excretion). It was determined that the proportion of salt in ready-to-eat baked bread should not exceed 1.4%. In the period 2014–2022, salt in semi-white bread was reduced by 14%, 22% in bakery and 25% in the largest meat industry. Awareness of the harmfulness of salt on health increased from 65.3% in 2008 to 96.9% in 2023 and salt intake was reduced by 15.9–1.8 g/day (22.8% men, 11.7% women). In the last 18 years, a significant decrease in salt intake was achieved in Croatia, awareness of its harmfulness increased, collaboration with the food industry was established and regulatory documents were launched. However, salt intake is still very high, underlying the need for continuation of efforts and even stronger activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The excessive intake of sodium (Na) and insufficient intake of potassium (K) are major concerns in the prevention of hypertension. Using low-Na/K seasonings (reducing 25% of the NaCl and adding K salt) may improve the dietary Na/K ratio and help prevent hypertension. To devise an intervention study using low-Na/K seasonings at a company cafeteria, we calculated the Na and K contents of the meals served at the cafeteria and estimated changes in the intakes when suitable low-Na/K seasonings were used. We also considered using milk as a good source of K. We used an ingredient list of a company cafeteria and calculated Na and K contents in each dish. The average amounts of NaCl and K per use were 5.04 g and 718 mg, respectively. Seasonings contributed 70.9% of the NaCl. With the use of low-Na/K seasonings, an estimated reduction in NaCl of 0.8 g/day and an estimated increase in K of 308 mg/day was achieved. With an additional serving (200 mL) of milk, NaCl was reduced by 0.57 g/day and K was increased by 610 mg/day, with an overall decrease in the dietary Na/K ratio from 3.20 to 2.40. The use of low-Na/K seasonings and dairy may improve the dietary Na/K ratio among cafeteria users and help prevent hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adequate sodium and potassium intake, along with adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), are key factors for preventing hypertension and cerebrovascular diseases. However, data on the consumption of these nutrients within the MedDiet are scarce. This cross-sectional study aims to assess the association between MedDiet adherence and sodium/potassium intake in the MIND-Matosinhos randomized controlled trial, targeting Portuguese adults at a high risk of dementia. Good adherence to the MedDiet was defined using the Portuguese Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener questionnaire (≥10 points), and both sodium/potassium intakes were estimated from 24-hour urine collections. The association between MedDiet adherence and these nutrients' intake (dichotomized by the median) was quantified by calculating odds ratios (OR) and respective 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) using a logistic regression. A total of 169 individuals (60.9% female; median age: 70 years; range: 36–85 years) were included. Good adherence to the MedDiet was observed among 18.3% of the sample. After adjusting for sex, age, education and using antihypertensive drugs, good MedDiet adherence was associated with higher sodium (OR = 3.11; 95% CI: 1.27–7.65) and potassium intake (OR = 9.74; 95% CI: 3.14–30.26). Increased adherence to the MedDiet may contribute to a higher potassium intake but seems to have limited effects on the adequacy of sodium levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing argyrodite-type, chlorine-rich, sodium-ion, solid-state electrolytes with high conductivity is a long-term challenge that is crucial for the advancement of all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs). In this study, chlorine-rich, argyrodite-type Na6−xPS5−xCl1+x solid solutions were successfully developed with a solid solution formation range of 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5. Na5.5PS4.5Cl1.5 (x = 0.5), displaying a highest ionic conductivity of 1.2 × 10−3 S/cm at 25 °C, which is more than a hundred times higher than that of Na6PS5Cl. Cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results demonstrated that the rich chlorine significantly enhanced the ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability, in addition to causing a reduction in activation energy. The Na5.5PS4.5Cl1.5 composite also showed the characteristics of a pure ionic conductor without electronic conductivity. Finally, the viability of Na5.5PS4.5Cl1.5 as a sodium electrolyte for all-solid-state sodium batteries was checked in a lab-scale ASSB, showing stable battery performance. This study not only demonstrates new composites of sodium-ionic, solid-state electrolytes with relatively high conductivity but also provides an anion-modulation strategy to enhance the ionic conductivity of argyrodite-type sodium solid-state ionic conductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Levofloxacin (LFX), which is difficult to degrade effectively due to its molecular stability, has become an problem that needs to be solved urgently. The advanced oxidation technology of persulfate has received increasing attention from researchers. In this study, a Ce-MOF derivative (Ce-MOF-T) was prepared by hydrothermal synthesis and calcination, which synergistically responded to electroactivation to generate sulfate radicals for the efficient degradation of LFX. It has been proven that electrical activation and the Ce-MOF derivatives work together to generate sulfate radicals and effectively degrade LFX. Ce-MOF-550-modified carbon cloth was used as the cathode and a platinum electrode as the anode, the concentration of LFX was 20 mg·L−1, the loading of Ce-MOF-550 was 15 mg, pH = 5, the concentration of sodium persulfate (PMS) was 0.3 g·L−1, the current density was 100 A·m−2, and the degradation rate was 82.05% after 1 h of reaction and 95% after 3 h of reaction. After five cycle tests, the degradation rate was still higher than 75.00%, indicating that the material had good stability. In addition, the degradation of LFX was consistent with a quasi-primary kinetic reaction with apparent rate constants of 2.26 × 10−2 min−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bitter drug, warfarin, has a narrow therapeutic index (NTI) and is used in paediatrics and geriatrics. The aim of this feasibility study was to formulate the taste-masked warfarin-containing pellets to be applicable for dose personalisation and to improve patient compliance, as well as to investigate the effect of the core type (PharSQ® Spheres M, CELPHERE™ CP-507, and NaCl) on the warfarin release from the Kollicoat® Smartseal taste-masking-coated pellets. The cores were successfully drug-loaded and coated in a fluid-bed coater with a Wurster insert. An increase in particle size and particle size distribution was observed by optical microscopy. In saliva-simulated pH, at the Kollicoat® Smartseal level of 2 mg/cm2, none of the pellets demonstrated drug release, confirming their efficient taste-masking. However, in a stomach-simulated pH, a faster drug release was observed from PharSQ® Spheres M- and CELPHERE™ CP-507-coated pellets in comparison with NaCl cores. Additional experiments allowed us to explain the slower drug release from NaCl-containing pellets because of the salting-out effect. Despite the successful taste masking, the drug release from pellets was relatively slow (not more than 91% per 60 min), allowing for further formulation improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt stress has a detrimental impact on food crop production, with its severity escalating due to both natural and man-made factors. As one of the most important food crops, wheat is susceptible to salt stress, resulting in abnormal plant growth and reduced yields; therefore, damage from salt stress should be of great concern. Additionally, the utilization of land in coastal areas warrants increased attention, given diminishing supplies of fresh water and arable land, and the escalating demand for wheat. A comprehensive understanding of the physiological and molecular changes in wheat under salt stress can offer insights into mitigating the adverse effects of salt stress on wheat. In this review, we summarized the genes and molecular mechanisms involved in ion transport, signal transduction, and enzyme and hormone regulation, in response to salt stress based on the physiological processes in wheat. Then, we surveyed the latest progress in improving the salt tolerance of wheat through breeding, exogenous applications, and microbial pathways. Breeding efficiency can be improved through a combination of gene editing and multiple omics techniques, which is the fundamental strategy for dealing with salt stress. Possible challenges and prospects in this process were also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein–protein and protein–mineral interactions can result in defects, such as sedimentation and age gelation, during the storage of high-protein beverages. It is well known that age gelation can be delayed by adding cyclic polyphosphates such as sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP). This study aims to assess the influence of different phosphate chain lengths of SHMP on the physicochemical properties of high-protein dispersions. The effect of adding different SHMP concentrations at 0%, 0.15%, and 0.25% (w/w) before and after heating of 6%, 8%, and 10% (w/w) milk protein concentrate dispersions was studied. The phosphate chain lengths of SHMPs used in this study were 16.47, 13.31, and 9.88, and they were classified as long-, medium-, and short-chain SHMPs, respectively. Apparent viscosity, particle size, heat coagulation time (HCT), color, and turbidity were evaluated. It was observed that the addition of SHMP (0.15% and 0.25%) increased the apparent viscosity of MPC dispersions. However, the chain length and the concentration of the added SHMP had no significant (p > 0.05) effect on the apparent viscosity after heating the dispersions. The HCT of a dispersion containing 6%, 8%, and 10% protein with no SHMP added was 15.28, 15.61, and 11.35 min, respectively. The addition of SHMP at both levels (0.15% and 0.25%) significantly increased the HCT. Protein dispersions (6%, 8%, and 10%) containing 0.25% short-chain SHMP had the highest HCT at 19.29, 19.61, and 16.09 min, respectively. Therefore, the chain length and concentration of added SHMP significantly affected the HCT of unheated protein dispersion (p < 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition from fossil fuels is in part limited by our inability to store energy at different scales. Batteries are therefore in high demand, and we need them to store more energy, be more reliable, durable and have less social and environmental impact. Silica-poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) composite aerogels doped with sodium perchlorate were synthesized as novel electrolytes for potential application in solid-state sodium batteries. The aerogels, synthesized by one-pot synthesis, are light (up to 214 kg m−3), porous (~85%), exhibit reduced shrinkage on drying (up to 12%) and a typical silica aerogel microstructure. The formation of a silica network and the presence of PVA and sodium perchlorate in the composite were confirmed by FTIR and TGA. The XRD analysis also shows that a predominantly amorphous structure is obtained, as crystalline phases of polymer and salt are present in a very reduced amount. The effects of increasing polymer and sodium salt concentrations on the ionic conductivity, assessed via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, were studied. At a PVA concentration of 15% (w/w silica precursors), the sodium conduction improved significantly up to (1.1 ± 0.3) × 10−5 S cm−1. Thus, this novel material has promising properties for the envisaged application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium p-perfluorous nonenoxybenzene sulfonate (OBS) is one of the key alternatives to perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). Its widespread tendency has increased extensive contamination in the aquatic environment. However, the present treatment technology for OBS exhibited insignificant adsorption capacity and long adsorption time. In this study, three proportions (1:5, 3:5, and 10:1) of chitosan-modified amino-driven graphene oxide (CS-GO) were innovated to strengthen the OBS adsorption capacity, compared with graphene oxide (GO) and graphene (GH). Through the characterization of SEM, BET, and FTIR, it was discovered that CS was synthetized on GO surfaces successfully with a low specific surface area. Subsequently, batch single influence factor studies on OBS removal from simulated wastewater were investigated. The optimum removal efficiency of OBS could be achieved up to 95.4% within 2 h when the adsorbent was selected as CS-GO (10:1), the dosage was 2 mg, and the pH was 3. The addition of inorganic ions could promote the adsorption efficiency of OBS. In addition, CS-GO presented the maximum adsorption energy due to additional functional groups of -NH3, and electrostatic interaction was the foremost motive for improving the adsorption efficiency of OBS. Moreover, OBS exhibited the fastest diffusion coefficient in the CS-GO-OBS solution, which is consistent with the fitting results of adsorption kinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate relationships between elemental signatures in calcite and the crystallographic orientation of its planes. The ability of calcite (a widespread calcium carbonate mineral) to entrap various trace and minor elements in its structure is the foundation of multiple methods (also called proxies) to reconstruct paleoenvironment conditions (e.g., temperature, pH, and marine chemistry). Although several element-to-calcium ratios (E/Ca) are routinely measured in marine carbonates and are widely used in paleoclimate studies, some of the controls on the incorporation of these elements are still unclear. Here, we examine the effect of crystallography on (E/Ca)calcite by growing thin layers of calcite on differently oriented Iceland Spar substrates immersed in modified seawater solution. Newly grown calcite layers were examined with Laser Ablation Inductivity–Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), Backscattered Electron Imaging (BSE), and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). We propose that the crystallographic orientation might slightly influence the incorporation of lithium (Li), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), sulfur (S), and barium (Ba) into the studied calcite faces and have no impact on the incorporation of boron (B), potassium (K), and strontium (Sr) at least under the conditions of our experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the case of a 51-year-old male with known congestive heart failure and acute myocarditis who presented to the emergency department (ED) with swollen testicles and urinary symptoms two weeks after the initiation of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor treatment. Abdominal and pelvic computed tomography (CT) scan was consistent with the diagnosis of Fournier's gangrene (FG). Intravenous antibiotics were administered and surgical exploratory intervention and excision of necrotic tissue were performed, stopping the evolution of necrotizing fasciitis. FG, a reported adverse event, may rarely occur when SGLT2 inhibitors are administered in patients with diabetes. To our knowledge, there have been no reported cases of FG in Romania since SLGT2 inhibitors were approved. The distinguishing feature of this case is that the patient was not diabetic, which emphasizes that patients without diabetes who are treated for heart failure with SGLT2 inhibitors may also be at risk of developing genitourinary infections. The association of predisposing factors may have contributed to the development of FG in this case and even though the benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors outweigh the risks, serious adverse events need to be voluntarily reported in order to intervene promptly, verify the relationship, and minimize the risk of bias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the preparation and evaluation of a novel humidity-control material, vermiculite/(sodium polyacrylate(AA)–acrylamide(AM)), using inverse suspension polymerization. Acrylic acid and acrylamide were introduced into the interlayer of modified vermiculite during the polymerization process, leading to the formation of a strong association with the modified vermiculite. The addition of vermiculite increased the specific surface area and pore volume of the composites. To investigate the moisture absorption and desorption properties of the composites, an orthogonal experiment and single-factor experiment were conducted to analyze the impacts of vermiculite content, neutralization degree, and the mass ratio of AA to AM. According to the control experiment, the addition of vermiculite was found to enhance the pore structure and surface morphology of the composite material, surpassing both vermiculite and PAA-AM copolymer in terms of humidity control capacity and rate. The optimal preparation conditions were identified as follows: vermiculite mass fraction of 4 wt%, a neutralization degree of 90%, and mAA:mAM = 4:1. The moisture absorption rate and moisture release rate of the composite material prepared under these conditions are 1.285 g/g and 1.172 g/g. The humidity control process of the composite material is governed by pseudo second-order kinetics, which encompasses the complete adsorption process. These results indicate that the vermiculite/PAA-AM composite humidity control material has excellent humidity control performance and is a simple and efficient humidity control method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood obesity has been associated with increased sodium intake. Nonetheless, evidence linking sodium intake to Body Mass Index (BMI) and Body Fat Mass Percentage (%BF) remains limited, especially in the pediatric age group. Therefore, this study aims to investigate whether there is an association between 24 h urinary sodium excretion with BMI and %BF in a sample group of children from the ARIA study. This cross-sectional analysis included 303 children aged 7 to 12 from across 20 public schools in Porto, Portugal. Weight and %BF were assessed using the Tanita™ BC-418 Segmental Body Analyzer. Children's Total Energy Intake (TEI) was estimated through a single 24 h Recall Questionnaire, and urinary sodium and potassium excretion was estimated by a 24 h urine collection. The association of %BF and BMI with 24 h sodium excretion was estimated by a binary logistic regression adjusted for sex, age, physical activity, total energy intake, parental education, and 24 h urinary excreted potassium. There was a significant positive association between higher levels of urinary sodium excretion and higher %BF values, even after adjusting for confounders. However, the same was not observed for BMI. Our findings suggest that higher sodium intake is associated with higher values of %BF among children, regardless of TEI and potassium intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phase segregation of wide-bandgap perovskite is detrimental to a device's performance. We find that Sodium Benzenesulfonate (SBS) can improve the interface passivation of PTAA, thus addressing the poor wettability issue of poly[bis(4-phenyl)(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)amine](PTAA). This improvement helps mitigate interface defects caused by poor contact between the perovskite and PTAA, reducing non-radiative recombination. Additionally, enhanced interface contact improves the crystallinity of the perovskite, leading to higher-quality perovskite films. By synergistically controlling the crystallization and trap passivation to reduce the phase segregation, SBS-modified perovskite solar cells (PSCs) achieved a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 20.27%, with an open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.18 V, short-circuit current density (Jsc) of 20.93 mA cm−2, and fill factor (FF) of 82.31%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have demonstrated remarkable development potential and commercial prospects. However, in the current state of research, the development of high-energy-density, long-cycle-life, high-rate-performance anode materials for SIBs remains a huge challenge. Free-standing flexible electrodes, owing to their ability to achieve higher energy density without the need for current collectors, binders, and conductive additives, have garnered significant attention across various fields. In this work, we designed and fabricated a free-standing three-dimensional flexible Nb2O5@WS2@C carbon nanofiber (CNF) anode based on a hybrid adsorption–intercalation–conversion mechanism of sodium storage, using electrospinning and hydrothermal synthesis processes. The hybrid structure, aided by synergistic effects, releases the advantages of all materials, demonstrating a superior rate performance (288, 248, 211, 158, 90, and 48 mA h g−1 at the current density of 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, and 10 A g−1, respectively) and good cycling stability (160 mA h g−1 after 200 cycles at 1 A g−1). This work provides certain guiding significance for future research on hybrid and flexible anodes of SIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive sodium intake is associated with nephrolithiasis, but the impact of sodium-deficient (SD) diets is unknown. Hence, we investigated the effects of short- and long-term SD diets on the expression of renal aquaporins and sodium transporters, and thus calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystal formation in hyperoxaluria rats. In a short-term sodium balance study, six male rats received drinking water and six received 0.75% ethylene glycol (EG) to induce hyperoxaluria. After a 30-day period of feeding on normal chow, both groups were treated with a normal-sodium diet for 5 days, followed by a sodium-free diet for the next 5 days. In a long-term SD study (42 days), four groups, induced with EG or not, were treated with normal-sodium water and sodium-free drinking water, alternately. Short-term sodium restriction in EG rats reversed the daily positive sodium balance, but progressively caused a negative cumulative water balance. In the long-term study, the abundant levels of of Na/H exchanger, thiazide-sensitive Na-Cl cotransporter, Na-K-ATPase, and aquaporins-1 from SD + EG rats were markedly reduced, corresponding to a decrease in Uosm, as compared to SD rats. Increased urine calcium, AP(CaOx)index, and renal CaOx deposition were also noted in SD + EG rats. Although the SD treatment reduced sodium excretion, it also increased urinary calcium and impaired renal function, ultimately causing the formation of more CaOx crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]