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Solid-state refrigeration using barocaloric materials is environmentally friendly and highly efficient, making it a subject of global interest over the past decade. Here, we report giant barocaloric effects in sodium hexafluorophosphate (NaPF6) and sodium hexafluoroarsenate (NaAsF6) that both undergo a cubic-to-rhombohedral phase transition near room temperature. We have determined that the low-temperature phase structure of NaPF6 is a rhombohedral structure with space group R 3 ¯ by neutron powder diffraction. There are three Raman active vibration modes in NaPF6 and NaAsF6, i.e., F2g, Eg, and A1g. The phase transition temperature varies with pressure at a rate of dTt/dP = 250 and 310 K GPa−1 for NaPF6 and NaAsF6. The pressure-induced entropy changes of NaPF6 and NaAsF6 are determined to be around 45.2 and 35.6 J kg−1 K−1, respectively. The saturation driving pressure is about 40 MPa. The pressure-dependent neutron powder diffraction suggests that the barocaloric effects are related to the pressure-induced cubic-to-rhombohedral phase transitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the effect of personalized sweat sodium replacement on drinking behavior, sodium and water balance, and thermophysiological responses during and after ultraendurance running in hot conditions. Methods: Nine participants (7 male, 2 female) completed two 5-hour treadmill runs (60% maximum oxygen uptake, 30°C ambient temperature), in a double-blind randomized crossover design, consuming sodium chloride (SODIUM) capsules to replace 100% of previously assessed losses or placebo (PLACEBO). Fluid was consumed ad libitum. Results: No effect of SODIUM was observed for ad libitum fluid intake or net fluid balance (P >.05). Plasma sodium concentration increased in both trials, but to a greater extent in SODIUM at 2.5 hours (mean [SD]: 4 [4] mmol·L−1 vs 1 [5] mmol·L−1; P <.05) and postexercise (4 [3] mmol·L−1 vs 1 [5] mmol·L−1; P <.05). Plasma volume change was not different between trials (P >.05) but was strongly correlated with sodium balance in SODIUM (r =.880, P <.01). No effect of sodium replacement was observed for heart rate, rectal temperature, thermal comfort, perceived exertion, or physiological strain index. During the 24 hours postexercise, ad libitum fluid intake was greater following SODIUM (2541 [711] mL vs 1998 [727] mL; P =.04), as was urinary sodium excretion (NaCl: 66 [35] mmol, Pl: 21 [12] mmol; P <.01). Conclusions: Personalized sweat sodium replacement during ultraendurance running in hot conditions, with ad libitum fluid intake, exacerbated the rise in plasma sodium concentration compared to no sodium replacement but did not substantially influence overall body-water balance or thermophysiological strain. A large sodium deficit incurred during exercise leads to substantial renal sodium conservation postexercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food insecurity is highly prevalent and linked to poorer diet and worse metabolic outcomes. Food insecurity can be stressful, and could elicit chronic psychological and physiological stress. In this study, we tested whether stress could be used to identify those at highest risk for worse diet and metabolic measures from food insecurity. Specifically, we hypothesized that cortisol (a physiological marker of stress) and perceived psychological stress would amplify the link between food insecurity and hyperpalatable food intake as well as metabolic measures. In a sample of 624 Black and White women aged 36-43 who participated in the NHLBI Growth and Health Study's midlife assessment, we assessed associations between food insecurity with hyperpalatable food intake (high fat + high sodium foods; high fat + high sugar foods; and high carbohydrate + high sodium foods), and metabolic measures (fasting glucose, insulin resistance, and waist circumference). We found that food insecurity was associated with higher levels of perceived stress (R2 = 0.09), and greater intake of high fat + high sugar (hyperpalatable) foods (R2 = 0.03). In those with higher cumulative cortisol (as indexed by hair cortisol), food insecurity was associated with higher levels of fasting glucose. Neither cortisol nor perceived stress moderated any other relationships, and neither variable functioned as a mediator in sensitivity analyses. Given these largely null findings, further research is needed to understand the role stress plays in the chronic health burdens of food insecurity.

The Na+-Ca2+ exchanger (NCX1) is the dominant Ca2+ extrusion mechanism in cardiac myocytes. NCX1 activity is inhibited by intracellular Na+ via a process known as Na+-dependent inactivation. A central question is whether this inactivation plays a physiological role in heart function. Using CRISPR/Cas9, we inserted the K229Q mutation in the gene (Slc8a1) encoding for NCX1. This mutation removes the Na+-dependent inactivation while preserving transport properties and other allosteric regulations. NCX1 mRNA levels, protein expression, and protein localization are unchanged in K229Q male mice. However, they exhibit reduced left ventricular ejection fraction and fractional shortening, while displaying a prolonged QT interval. K229Q ventricular myocytes show enhanced NCX1 activity, resulting in action potential prolongation, higher incidence of aberrant action potentials, a faster decline of Ca2+ transients, and depressed cell shortening. The results demonstrate that NCX1 Na+-dependent inactivation plays an essential role in heart function by affecting both cardiac excitability and contractility.

The reactions of Cl, Br, and I with Nan=2,3 produced in a supersonic expansion form Na2* and Na* excited states extending across the visible and ultraviolet regions. Emission in the region extending from 410 to 600 nm indicates selectively formed excited state Na2 emission features. Experimental evidence suggests that this emission is associated with Na3 + X reactions. Broadband (0.5 cm−1) laser measurements demonstrate gain (population inversion) for select features at∼524–528(1%), ∼492(0.3%), and ∼458.7–461(0.8%) nm. Single mode (0.007 cm−1) measurements extending from 528.03 to 527.63 nm demonstrate amplification involving five to six individual rovibronic levels with a maximum gain close to 3% recorded at 527.9 nm. The observed gain is associated with select transitions from levels of the Na2 11Πu state populated, via identified curve crossings, through collision induced transfer from long-lived Na2 21Σg+ and 11Πg reservoir states. Collision induced population buildup in the lowest vibrational levels of these reservoir states and collision induced transfer to the Na2 11Πu state create a population inversion in transitions to the X 1Σg+ state of Na2. The observed amplification is aided by rapid vibrational and rotational relaxation in both the Na2 ground and excited reservoir states producing amplifiers in the visible region like the HF amplifier in the infrared. This study suggests the importance of reaction populated and energy storing long-lived reservoir states in small sodium molecule combustion processes and indicates the potential for providing new short wavelength visible and ultraviolet amplifiers for future laser-based chemical propulsion concepts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reactions of Cl, Br, and I with Nan=2,3 produced in a supersonic expansion form Na2* and Na* excited states extending across the visible and ultraviolet regions. Emission in the region extending from 410 to 600 nm indicates selectively formed excited state Na2 emission features. Experimental evidence suggests that this emission is associated with Na3 + X reactions. Broadband (0.5 cm−1) laser measurements demonstrate gain (population inversion) for select features at∼524–528(1%), ∼492(0.3%), and ∼458.7–461(0.8%) nm. Single mode (0.007 cm−1) measurements extending from 528.03 to 527.63 nm demonstrate amplification involving five to six individual rovibronic levels with a maximum gain close to 3% recorded at 527.9 nm. The observed gain is associated with select transitions from levels of the Na2 11Πu state populated, via identified curve crossings, through collision induced transfer from long-lived Na2 21Σg+ and 11Πg reservoir states. Collision induced population buildup in the lowest vibrational levels of these reservoir states and collision induced transfer to the Na2 11Πu state create a population inversion in transitions to the X 1Σg+ state of Na2. The observed amplification is aided by rapid vibrational and rotational relaxation in both the Na2 ground and excited reservoir states producing amplifiers in the visible region like the HF amplifier in the infrared. This study suggests the importance of reaction populated and energy storing long-lived reservoir states in small sodium molecule combustion processes and indicates the potential for providing new short wavelength visible and ultraviolet amplifiers for future laser-based chemical propulsion concepts. [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 childrens 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; DS+salt 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 (

There is a bidirectional pathophysiological interaction between the heart and the kidneys, and prolonged physiological stress to the heart and/or the kidneys can cause adverse cardiorenal complications, including but not limited to subclinical cardiomyopathy, heart failure and chronic kidney disease. Whilst more common in individuals with Type 2 diabetes, cardiorenal complications also occur in the absence of diabetes. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) were initially approved to reduce hyperglycaemia in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Recently, these agents have been shown to significantly improve cardiovascular and renal outcomes in patients with and without Type 2 diabetes, demonstrating a robust reduction in hospitalisation for heart failure and reduced risk of progression of chronic kidney disease, thus gaining approval for use in treatment of heart failure and chronic kidney disease. Numerous potential mechanisms have been proposed to explain the cardiorenal effects of SGLT2i. This review provides a simplified summary of key potential cardiac and renal mechanisms underlying the cardiorenal benefits of SGT2i and explains these mechanisms in the clinical context. Key mechanisms related to the clinical effects of SGLT2i on the heart and kidneys explained in this publication include their impact on (1) tissue oxygen delivery, hypoxia and resultant ischaemic injury, (2) vascular health and function, (3) substrate utilisation and metabolic health and (4) cardiac remodelling. Knowing the mechanisms responsible for SGLT2i-imparted cardiorenal benefits in the clinical outcomes will help healthcare practitioners to identify more patients that can benefit from the use of SGLT2i.

Kinetic frustrated Lewis pairs (FLP) allow facile cleavage of a number of E-H bonds (E = H, Si, C, B) where both the Lewis base and Lewis acid are involved in the bond activation transition state. More recently, kinetic FLP systems have been extended to the cleavage of C-X (X = F, Cl, Br) bonds. We report on the role of sodium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate in the benzylation of triarylphosphines, where the sodium cation and phosphine support a kinetic FLP type transition state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium serves as one of the primary cations in the central nervous system, playing a crucial role in maintaining normal brain function. In this study, we investigated alterations in sodium concentrations in the brain and/or cerebrospinal fluid across multiple models, including an aging model, a stroke model, a nitroglycerin (NTG)-induced rat migraine model, a familial hemiplegic migraine type 2 (FHM2) mouse model, and a transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Our results reveal that older rats exhibited higher sodium concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), plasma, and various brain regions compared to their younger counterparts. Additionally, findings from the stroke model demonstrated a significant increase in sodium in the ischemic/reperfused region, accompanied by a decrease in potassium and an elevated sodium/potassium ratio. However, we did not detect significant changes in sodium in the NTG-induced rat migraine model or the FHM2 mouse model. Furthermore, AD transgenic mice showed no significant differences in sodium levels compared to wild-type mice in CSF, plasma, or the hippocampus. These results underscore the nuanced regulation of sodium homeostasis in various neurological conditions and aging, providing valuable insights into potential mechanisms underlying these alterations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Practical Application Most Americans exceed the recommended limit for sodium in their diet, a risk factor for hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Efforts have been made by the food industry and government agencies to reduce the sodium content in foods and encourage the consumption of lower sodium diets. Such efforts, however, are not successful in improving public health when consumers do not accept and consume lower sodium foods. This review article provides an overview of the strategies that have been used by the US food industry to reduce and replace sodium in consumer packaged goods, as well as future sodium reduction strategies and approaches for replacing sodium with potassium salts. Challenges in consumer acceptance regarding the reduction of sodium in foods are also discussed. Because of the widespread consumption of numerous sodium‐containing consumer packaged goods, implementing future strategies in various aspects of salt reduction and potassium replacement in foods should have a profound impact on the health of Americans.New information is provided herein as it discusses the most current and collective perspectives of major food industry successes and challenges, as well as government strategies to decrease sodium intake. The information provided also addresses future strategies for reducing sodium content in foods, increasing potassium intake, and consumer acceptance of lower sodium foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Electron beam irradiation technology was first used to graft modify propylene separators in sodium metal batteries. • Grafted polyacrylic acid enhances electrolyte affinity and efficiently regulates Na+ ion flux. • The improved anode/separator interface enhances the cyclability and reversibility of sodium metal anodes. Sodium metal batteries (SMBs) are considered as strong alternatives to lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), due to the inherent merits of sodium metal anodes (SMAs) including low redox potential (−2.71 V vs. SHE), high theoretical capacity (1166 mAh g−1), and abundant resources. However, the uncontrollable Na dendrite growth has significantly impeded the practical deployment of SMBs. Separator modification has emerged as an effective strategy for substantially enhancing the performance of SMAs. Herein, for the first time, we present the successful grafting polyacrylic acid (PAA) onto polypropylene (PP) separators (denoted as PP-g-PAA) using highly efficient electron beam (EB) irradiation to improve the cyclability of SMAs. The polar carboxyl groups of PAA can facilitate the electrolyte wetting and provide ample mechanical strength to resist dendrite penetration. Consequently, the regulation of Na+ ion flux enables uniform Na+ deposition with dendrite-free morphology, facilitated by the favorable anode/separator interface. The PP-g-PAA separator significantly enhances the cyclability of fabricated cells. Notably, the lifespan of Na||Na symmetric cells can be extended up to 5519 h at 1 mA cm−2 and 1 mAh cm−2. The stable design of the anode/separator interface achieved through polyolefin separator modification presented in this study holds promise for the further advancement of next-generation advanced battery systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Sodium (Na) metal anodes receive significant attention due to their high theoretical specific energy and cost-effectiveness. However, the high reactivity of Na foil anodes and the irregular surfaces have posed challenges to the operability and reliability of Na metals in battery applications. In the absence of inert environmental protection conditions, constructing a uniform, dense, and sodiophilic Na metal anode surface is crucial for homogenizing Na deposition, but remains less-explored. Herein, we fabricated a Tin (Sn) nanoparticle-assembled film conforming to separator pores, which provided ample space for accommodating volumetric expansion during the Na alloying process. Subsequently, a seamless Na-Sn alloy overlayer was formed and transferred onto the Na foil during Na plating through a separator-assisted technique, thereby overcoming conventional operational limitations of metallic Na. As compared to traditional volumetrically expanded cracked ones, the present autotransferable, highly sodiophilic, ion-conductive, and seamless Na-Sn alloy overlayer serves as uniform nucleation sites, thereby reducing nucleation and diffusion barriers and facilitating the compact deposition of metallic Na. Consequently, the autotransferable alloy layer enables a high average Coulombic efficiency of 99.9 % at 3.0 mA cm−2 and 3.0 mAh cm−2 in the half cells as well as minimal polarization overpotentials in symmetric cells, both during prolonged cycling 1200 h. Furthermore, the assembled Na||Sn-1.0h-PP||Na 3 V 2 (PO 4) 3 @C@CNTs full cell delivers high capacity retention of 97.5 % after 200 cycles at a high cathodic mass loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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 sudden enhancement in the mesospheric neutral metal layers (Ns) has been studied in different latitudes for decades. Specifically, at 23°S, Sodium Ns layers have been analyzed since their first observation at the end of the seventies. Several studies have reported Sodium Ns during events of energetic particle precipitation (EPP) and the formation of auroral-type sporadic E (Esa) layers at high-latitude stations. The Esa layers are also observed in the Brazilian low-latitude sector during the EPP events due to the South American Magnetic Anomaly (SAMA). However, despite extensive studies on the SAMA region, no reports exist about the co-occurrence of the Ns layer and the Esa layer. Therefore, in the present work, for the first time, we observed on 26 April 2023 a peculiar Ns layer event synchronously occurring with the development of the Esa layer in the SAMA region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dietary risk factors are the leading cause of death globally and in New Zealand (NZ). Processed packaged foods are prevalent in the food supply and contribute excess amounts of sodium, saturated fat, and sugar in diets. Improving the nutritional quality of these foods has the potential to reduce population chronic disease risk. We aimed to evaluate the healthiness using the Australasian Health Star Rating (HSR, from 0.5 to 5 stars, with 5 being the healthiest) and nutrient composition (sodium, saturated fat, and total sugar) of packaged products manufactured by the largest NZ-based food and beverage companies in NZ 2015–2019. This analysis relates to a larger study evaluating structured engagement with food companies to improve nutrition-related policies and actions. Methods: Data was sourced from Nutritrack, a NZ-branded supermarket-sourced food composition database. The largest NZ-based companies from annual retail sales revenue (n = 35) were identified using 2019 Euromonitor data. All relevant products of the selected companies were extracted for analysis. Products included totalled 17,795 with a yearly range of 3462–3672 products. The primary outcome was a nutrient profile score estimated using HSR. Healthiness was defined as ≥ 3.5 stars. Secondary outcomes were sodium, total sugar, and saturated fat per 100 g/100 mL. All outcomes were assessed overall, by food company, and food category. Change over time was tested using linear mixed models, adjusting for major food categories and cluster effects of food companies controlling for multiple comparisons. Model-adjusted mean differences between years were estimated with 95% confidence intervals. Results: There was a small statistically significant increase in mean HSR between 2015 and 2019 (0.08 [0.15,0.01], p = 0.024). Mean total sugar content decreased over the same period (0.78 g/100 g [0.08,1.47], p = 0.020), but there were no significant changes in mean sodium or saturated fat contents. Seven of the 13 categories showed small increases in mean HSR (0.1–0.2). Most categories (9/13) exhibited a reduction in mean total sugar content. Conclusions: Between 2015 and 2019, there were slight improvements in the nutritional quality of selected packaged foods and drinks in NZ. Much more substantive changes are needed to address the health-related burden of unhealthy diets, supported by stronger government action and less reliance on voluntary industry initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review examined the effect of acute heat mitigation strategies on physiological strain and exercise performance in females exercising in the heat. Three databases were searched for original research with an acute heat mitigation (intervention) and control strategy in active females and reporting core temperature, heart rate and/or aerobic exercise performance/capacity with ≥ 24°C wet bulb globe temperature. Hedges’ g effect sizes were calculated to evaluate outcomes. Thirteen studies (n = 118) were included. Most studies that applied an acute heat mitigation strategy to females did not reduce thermal (9/10) or cardiovascular (6/6) strain or improve exercise performance/capacity (8/10). The most effective strategies for attenuating thermal strain were pre-cooling with ice-slurry (effect size = −2.2 [95% CI, −3.2, −1.1]) and ice-vests (−1.9 [−2.7, −1.1]), and pre- and per-cooling with an ice-vest (−1.8 [−2.9, −0.7]). Only pre-cooling with an ice-vest improved running performance (−1.8 [−2.9, −0.7]; ~0.43 min) whilst sodium hyperhydration improved cycling capacity at 70% V O2peak (0.8 [0.0, 1.6]; ~20.1 min). There is currently limited research on acute heat mitigation strategies in females, so the evidence for the efficacy is scarce. Some studies show beneficial effects with ice-slurry, ice-vests and sodium hyperhydration, which can guide future research to support female exercise performance in the heat. [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]

Background: High sodium intake has been linked to negative health effects, including cardiovascular and renal diseases. Traditional dietary sodium assessment methods are time-consuming and subjected to errors. Using technology may increase the efficiency and accuracy of dietary assessment. The objective of this study is to develop and validate a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) screener using software to assess sodium intake among the Palestinian population. Methodology: The study was conducted in four phases. In Phase 1, Palestinian foods were categorized and subcategorized according to their mode of consumption, sodium content, and food groups. The sodium content values were calculated from Palestinian food composition database. Content validity was done in Phase 2, while in Phase 3, a pilot study was conducted to determine test-retest reliability. In Phase 4, the criterion validity of the screener was assessed by comparing the results of sodium intake from the FFQ screener with the results from a 24-hour urinary sodium test and a 3-day diet recall. Correlations between the sodium intake values from the three methods were analyzed using Pearson correlation tests, and the difference was assessed using the Bland-Altman test. Results: The developed FFQ screener sodium screener included 41 food items categorized into nine groups, with photo-based portion size estimation and frequency of consumption. The reliability test showed a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.7, p < 0.01 using test and retest. For criterion validity, the correlation coefficient between dietary sodium intake using the FFQ screener software and the 24-hour urine sodium test was (0.6, p < 0.000). The correlation coefficient between dietary sodium intake using the FFQ screener software and dietary sodium intake using a 3-day recall was (0.3, p < 0.000). Sodium intake was significantly correlated with preferences for low-sodium food and previous salt reduction, p < 0.05. Conclusions: Using the FFQ screener software was a valid and reliable method for assessing dietary sodium intake. Using the photo-based method to estimate portion size improved precision and accuracy in diet assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) is a lynchpin disorder, as it results in overactive mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, which has been implicated in a multitude of disease states. TSC is an autosomal dominant disease where 90% of affected individuals develop epilepsy. Epilepsy results from aberrant neuronal excitability that leads to recurring seizures. Under neurotypical conditions, the coordinated activity of voltage-gated ion channels keep neurons operating in an optimal range, thus providing network stability. Interestingly, loss or gain of function mutations in voltage-gated potassium, sodium, or calcium channels leads to altered excitability and seizures. To date, little is known about voltage-gated ion channel expression and function in TSC. However, data is beginning to emerge on how mTOR signaling regulates voltage-gated ion channel expression in neurons. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the literature describing common seizure types in patients with TSC, and suggest possible parallels between acquired epilepsies with known voltage-gated ion channel dysfunction. Furthermore, we discuss possible links towardmTOR regulation of voltage-gated ion channels expression and channel kinetics and the underlying epileptic manifestations in patients with TSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application properties such as foam property, electrolyte tolerance, antibacterial activity and antistatic performance of the mixed systems of a novel Gemini quaternary ammonium salt with quadra‐cationic sites (TC‐GS) and sodium fatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ether carboxylate (AE9CNa) at various molar fraction of TC‐GS (αTC‐GS), were investigated systematically. Results show that TC‐GS/AE9CNa mixed systems with different ratios form a homogeneous and transparent solution, which exhibits excellent foam stability and antibacterial activity. The foam volume of the mixed system remains nearly constant from 400 s to 1000 s, and even when TC‐GS is 10 mg/L in the mixed systems, the antibacterial rates against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) for 2 min. are all exceeded 99 %. The mixed systems of TC‐GS/AE9CNa at various αTC‐GS also demonstrate the superior electrolyte tolerance, their maximum tolerance of NaCl, CaCl2 and MgCl2 is severally beyond 270 g/L, 180 g/L and 180 g/L. In addition, both TC‐GS solution and the mixed systems have good antistatic properties, which can reduce the surface resistance of polyester fabric to ≤1010 Ω. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many industrialised countries, sodium intake exceeds the nutritional guidelines. High sodium intake has been associated with health problems, such as arterial hypertension and, consequently, a higher health risk of cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate overall quality of salamis with reduced sodium content by analysing aldehydes, proteolysis, and lipolysis, as well as to verify the correlation between sensory acceptance and volatile compounds. Four formulations were prepared replacing NaCl by a mixture of KCI and CaCl2. Two controls, one with a high level and the other with a low NaCl level were also included in the study. Water activity and pH levels were monitored in all samples. Volatile compounds were measured, in particular, hexanal, 2,4-decadienal and 3-methylbutanal. Finally, a sensory acceptance test was carried out using potential consumers. The results highlighted a relation between aldehyde concentration and sensory acceptance, hexanal/3-methybutanal ratio, that may be a marker of partial NaCl substitution in salami. Thus, our results may be used to guide the use of NaCl substitution by KCl/CaCl2 in terms of volatile compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

Dysnatremia is common in donors and recipients of liver transplantation (LT). However, the influence of dysnatremia on LT prognosis remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate effects of donors' and recipients' serum sodium on LT prognosis. We retrospectively reviewed 248 recipients who underwent orthotopic LT at our center between January 2016 and December 2018. Donors and recipients perioperative and 3-year postoperative clinical data were included. Delta serum sodium was defined as the donors' serum sodium minus the paired recipients' serum sodium. Donors with serum sodium > 145 mmol/L had significantly higher preoperative blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (P < 0.01) and creatinine (Cr) (P < 0.01) than others. Preoperative total bilirubin (TBIL) (P < 0.01), direct bilirubin (DBIL) (P < 0.01), BUN (P < 0.01), Cr (P < 0.01) were significantly higher in the hyponatremia group of recipients than the other groups, but both of donors' and recipients' serum sodium had no effect on the LT prognosis. In the delta serum sodium < 0 mmol/L group, TBIL (P < 0.01) and DBIL (P < 0.01) were significantly higher in postoperative 1 week than the other groups, but delta serum sodium had no effect on the postoperative survival rates. Dysnatremia in donors and recipients of LT have no effect on postoperative survival rates, hepatic and renal function, but recipients with higher serum sodium than donors have significantly higher TBIL and DBIL at 1 week postoperatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity tolerance requires coordinated responses encompassing salt exclusion in roots and tissue/cellular compartmentation of salt in leaves. We investigated the possible control points for salt ions transport in roots and tissue tolerance to Na+ and Cl– in leaves of two contrasting mungbean genotypes, salt‐tolerant Jade AU and salt‐sensitive BARI Mung‐6, grown in nonsaline and saline (75 mM NaCl) soil. Cryo‐SEM X‐ray microanalysis was used to determine concentrations of Na, Cl, K, Ca, Mg, P, and S in various cell types in roots related to the development of apoplastic barriers, and in leaves related to photosynthetic performance. Jade AU exhibited superior salt exclusion by accumulating higher [Na] in the inner cortex, endodermis, and pericycle with reduced [Na] in xylem vessels and accumulating [Cl] in cortical cell vacuoles compared to BARI Mung‐6. Jade AU maintained higher [K] in root cells than BARI Mung‐6. In leaves, Jade AU maintained lower [Na] and [Cl] in chloroplasts and preferentially accumulated [K] in mesophyll cells than BARI Mung‐6, resulting in higher photosynthetic efficiency. Salinity tolerance in Jade AU was associated with shoot Na and Cl exclusion, effective regulation of Na and Cl accumulation in chloroplasts, and maintenance of high K in root and leaf mesophyll cells. Summary statement: Salinity tolerance in mungbean is related to its ability to intercept Na and Cl in roots, thereby reducing Na and Cl transport to shoot, effectively regulate Na and Cl accumulation in chloroplasts, and maintain high K in root and leaf mesophyll cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The standard rate of sodium removal in adult anuric patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is 7.5 g/L of ultrafiltration volume (UFV). Although automated PD (APD) is widely used in pediatric patients, no attempt has yet been made to estimate sodium removal in APD. Methods: The present, retrospective cohort study included pediatric patients with APD who were managed at Tokyo Metropolitan Children's Medical Center between July 2010 and November 2017. The patients underwent a peritoneal equilibrium test (PET) at our hospital. Sodium removal per UFV was calculated by peritoneal function and dwell time using samples from patients on APD with 1- and 2-h dwell effluent within three months of PET and 4- and 10-h dwell effluent at PET. Results: In total, 217 samples from 18 patients were included, with 63, 81, and 73 of the samples corresponding to the High [H], High-average [HA], and Low-average [LA] PET category, respectively. Sodium removal per UFV (g/L in salt equivalent) for dwell times of one, two, four, and ten hours was 5.2, 8.8, 8.0, and 11.5 for PET [H], 5.3, 5.8, 5.6, and 8.1 for PET [HA], and 4.6, 5.1, 5.1, and 7.1 for PET [LA], respectively. Conclusions: Sodium removal per UFV in pediatric APD was less than the standard adult CAPD and tended to be lower with shorter dwell times, leading to sodium accumulation. Therefore, salt intake should be restricted in combination with one or more long daytime dwells, especially in anuric patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of the next generation of fast breeder reactors has commenced, with the main targets being enhanced safety and improved economy. Nuclear heat generated in the fuel subassembly of fast reactors is removed by circulating sodium through the core using centrifugal pumps. The primary sodium pumps (PSPs) used are large-capacity pumps, and the design of these pumps is different from that of traditional pumps. Though many works have been reported for the performance prediction of centrifugal pumps, most of these works have been carried out in a decoupled way, and only a few works have been reported where the pump is modeled with all the associated geometric structures. Centrifugal pumps are prone to a phenomenon called suction recirculation, which occurs when pumps are operated significantly below the best efficiency point. This suction recirculation has a strong potential to damage the impeller. Correlations given in the literature for the prediction of the onset of recirculation cannot be used for complicated inlet geometries, and three-dimensional computation fluid dynamics (CFD) investigations are most suited for such applications. Many devices have been reported in the literature to reduce the intensity of (or to suppress) suction recirculation. Webs provided in the suction plenum will modify the velocity distribution at the impeller inlet and also can influence suction recirculation. In this work, the centrifugal pump used for primary sodium pumping for fast reactor applications is simulated using CFD techniques in an integrated way. The frozen rotor approach is used to simulate the impeller-diffuser hydraulics. The effect of flow hydraulics in the suction plenum, flow distribution in the standpipe–pump gap, and flow conditions in the pool on the performance characteristics of PSPs are simulated. The flow rate for the onset of suction recirculation is predicted and compared with correlations available in the literature. Simulations are carried out to study the effect of webs on suction recirculation. The effects of the number of webs and the web geometry are also studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the first principle, the SDS anions are preferentially adsorbed on the (0 0 2) surface of the Zn anode, forming a protective layer which prevents the adsorption of free water molecules and modifies the electrode/electrolyte interface. The SDS additive significantly inhibits the contact of water molecules with the interface, reduces the generation of by-products, and effectively prevents the growth of dendrites. Consequently, with the assistance of SDS additives, the Zn||Zn symmetrical battery sustains a long cycle life for 2000h. [Display omitted] Aqueous zinc-ion batteries are emerging as powerful candidates for large-scale energy storage, due to their inherent high safety and high theoretical capacity. However, the inevitable hydrogen evolution and side effects of the deposition process limit their lifespan, which requires rational engineering of the interface between anode and aqueous electrolyte. In this paper, an anionic surfactant as electrolyte additive, sodium dodecyl sulfonate (SDS), is introduced to deliver highly reversible zinc metal batteries. Unlike traditional surfactants, the solvation structure is not affected by SDS, which tends to adsorb on the (0 0 2) crystal plane of Zn with the purpose of effectively limiting the water molecules adsorption. Attributed to the natural hydrophobic part of SDS, a dynamic electrostatic shielding layer and a unique hydrophobic interface are constructed on the anode. Assisted by the above merits, the adverse surface corrosion, hydrogen evolution and dendrite growth are significantly inhibited without the sacrifice in the deposition kinetics of Zn ions. As a result, the Zn||Zn symmetric batteries demonstrate an increased cycle life of 2000 h (1 mA cm−2, 1 mA h cm−2) with the presence of SDS additive. Such strategy provides a new avenue for the developing advanced electrolytes to be applied in aqueous energy storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the seeded batch cooling crystallization of sodium phosphite (SP) is simulated and optimized through a coupled method of the genetic algorithm and nonlinear programming. At first, the modeling and simulation test methods of the crystallization process are applied for the crystallization of SP, which expands the relevant study of SP from the experiment to the simulation. A comprehensive model is established in MATLAB/Simulink, and based on this model, the results of the common cooling strategy (linear cooling) on the process are investigated. Meanwhile, the process sensitivity to the change of seeding conditions is analyzed. Then, the coupled optimization method based on the genetic algorithm and nonlinear programming is applied to optimize the crystallization process for the first time, and the obtained optimized cooling strategy is compared to the result of the traditional nonlinear programming method (NLPM). The traditional NLPM has more significant effects on large seeding mass and small mean size, while the coupled method has better adaptability. When the coefficient of variation is almost fixed, the cooling strategy obtained by the coupled method could produce more crystals with large mean size. In addition, the end of the process can be reached earlier. The results show that the coupled method is more suitable for the optimization of the batch cooling crystallization of SP. [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]

AbstractThis paper presents a 1200-MW(thermal) advanced sodium-cooled thermal reactor concept that uses online refueling of 3.5% to 9.95% enriched UO2 fuel pin bundles; uses either graphite or beryllium oxide (BeO) as a neutron moderator; reaches outlet temperatures of 650°C enabling a thermal efficiency of at least 45%; has a high specific power of 133 W/g U; has average power densities of 16.4 and 43.2 W/cm3 with graphite and BeO, respectively; reaches an average discharge burnup of 100 MWd/kg U; and generates 52% less spent fuel volume, 28% less fission products, and 47% to 64% less transuranics than a typical large pressurized water reactor for the same amount of electricity produced. [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]

Background: Whether blood laboratory analyses differ in patients who later suffer in‐hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) compared to other hospitalised patients remains unknown. The aim of this study was to describe pre‐arrest sampling frequencies, results, and trends in blood laboratory analyses in patients with IHCA compared to controls. Methods: This study was a matched case–control study using national registries in Denmark. Cases were defined as patients with IHCA from 2017 to 2021. Controls were defined as hospitalised patients and were matched on age, sex, and date and length of admission. Data on a total of 51 different blood laboratory analyses were obtained. The laboratory analyses of primary interest were lactate, sodium, potassium, and haemoglobin. The index time for cases was defined as the time of cardiac arrest, and a corresponding index time was defined for controls based on the time to cardiac arrest for their corresponding case. Blood sampling frequencies were reported for blood laboratory analyses obtained either within the last 24 h before the index time or between the time of hospital admission and the index time. Blood sampling results were reported for blood laboratory analyses obtained within the last 24 h before the index time. Results: A total of 9268 cases and 92,395 controls were included in this study. Cases underwent more frequent sampling of all blood laboratory analyses compared to controls. This higher sampling frequency was more pronounced for lactate compared to sodium, potassium, or haemoglobin. The last measured lactate was higher in cases (median [IQR]: 2.3 [1.3, 4.9]) compared to controls (median [IQR]: 1.3 [0.9, 2.0]). Differences in sodium, potassium, and haemoglobin were negligible. The proportion of abnormally elevated levels of lactate and potassium increased as time to cardiac arrest decreased; no such effect was seen in controls. No temporal trend was evident for sodium or haemoglobin. Conclusions: Patients with IHCA undergo more frequent blood sampling prior to IHCA and have higher levels of lactate compared to matched controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Evidence suggests that increasing salt intake in pregnancy lowers blood pressure, protecting against preeclampsia. We hypothesized that sodium (Na+) evokes beneficial placental signals that are disrupted in preeclampsia. METHODS: Blood and urine were collected from nonpregnant women of reproductive age (n=26) and pregnant women with (n=50) and without (n=55) preeclampsia, along with placental biopsies. Human trophoblast cell lines and primary human trophoblasts were cultured with varying Na+ concentrations. RESULTS: Women with preeclampsia had reduced placental and urinary Na+ concentrations, yet increased urinary angiotensinogen and reduced active renin, aldosterone concentrations, and osmotic response signal TonEBP (tonicityresponsive enhancer binding protein) expression. In trophoblast cell cultures, TonEBP was consistently increased upon augmented Na+ exposure. Mechanistically, inhibiting Na+/K+-ATPase or adding mannitol evoked the TonEBP response, whereas inhibition of cytoskeletal signaling abolished it. CONCLUSIONS: Enhanced Na+ availability induced osmotic gradient-dependent cytoskeletal signals in trophoblasts, resulting in proangiogenic responses. As placental salt availability is compromised in preeclampsia, adverse systemic responses are thus conceivable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of contamination of venous blood with a lipid-containing solution on parameters measured by a modern blood gas analyzer. We collected venous blood from 17 healthcare workers (46 ± 11 years; 53 % women) into three blood gas syringes containing 0 , 5 and 10 % lipid-containing solution. Blood gas analysis was performed within 15 min from sample collection on GEM Premier 5000, while triglycerides and serum indices were assays on Roche COBAS C702. Triglycerides concentration increased from 1.0 ± 0.3 mmol/L in the uncontaminated blood gas syringe, to 39.4 ± 7.8 and 65.3 ± 14.4 mmol/L (both p<0.001) in syringes with 5 and 10 % final lipid contamination. The lipemic and hemolysis indices increased accordingly. Statistically significant variation was noted for all analytes except hematocrit and COHb in the syringe with 5 % lipids, while only COHb did not vary in the syringe with 10 % lipids. Significant increases were observed from 5 % lipid contamination for pO2, SO2 and lactate, while the values of pH, pCO2, sodium, potassium, chloride, ionized calcium, glucose, hematocrit (10 % contamination), hemoglobin and MetHB decreased. All these changes except lactate and CoHb exceeded their relative performance specifications. Artifactual hyperlipidemia caused by contamination with exogenous lipids can have a clinically significant impact on blood gas analysis. Manufacturers of blood gas analyzers must be persuaded to develop new instruments equipped with serum indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose: Sodium triple quantum (TQ) signal has been shown to be a valuable biomarker for cell viability. Despite its clinical potential, application of Sodium TQ signal is hindered by complex pulse sequences with long scan times. This study proposes a method to approximate the TQ signal using a single excitation pulse without phase cycling. Methods: The proposed method is based on a single excitation pulse and a comparison of the free induction decay (FID) with the integral of the FID combined with a shifting reconstruction window. The TQ signal is calculated from this FID only. As a proof of concept, the method was also combined with a multi‐echo UTE imaging sequence on a 9.4 T preclinical MRI scanner for the possibility of fast TQ MRI. Results: The extracted Sodium TQ signals of single‐pulse and spin echo FIDs were in close agreement with theory and TQ measurement by traditional three‐pulse sequence (TQ time proportional phase increment [TQTPPI)]. For 2%, 4%, and 6% agar samples, the absolute deviations of the maximum TQ signals between SE and theoretical (time proportional phase increment TQTPPI) TQ signals were less than 1.2% (2.4%), and relative deviations were less than 4.6% (6.8%). The impact of multi‐compartment systems and noise on the accuracy of the TQ signal was small for simulated data. The systematic error was <3.4% for a single quantum (SQ) SNR of 5 and at maximum <2.5% for a multi‐compartment system. The method also showed the potential of fast in vivo SQ and TQ imaging. Conclusion: Simultaneous SQ and TQ MRI using only a single‐pulse sequence and SQ time efficiency has been demonstrated. This may leverage the full potential of the Sodium TQ signal in clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dietary sodium restriction remains a guidelines-approved lifestyle recommendation for chronic heart failure (CHF) patients. However, its efficacy in clinical outcome improvement is dubious. Objective: The study evaluated whether dietary sodium restriction in CHF reduces clinical events. Methods: We performed a systematic review of the following databases: Academic Search Ultimate, ERIC, Health Source Nursing/Academic Edition, MEDLINE, Embase, Clinicaltrials.gov and Cochrane Library (trials) to find studies analysing the impact of sodium restriction in the adult CHF population. Both observational and interventional studies were included. Exclusion criteria included i.e.: sodium consumption assessment based only on natriuresis, in-hospital interventions or mixed interventions—e.g. sodium and fluid restriction in one arm only. The review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Meta-analysis was performed for the endpoints reported in at least 3 papers. Analyses were conducted in Review Manager (RevMan) Version 5.4.1. Results: Initially, we screened 9175 articles. Backward snowballing revealed 1050 additional articles. Eventually, 9 papers were evaluated in the meta-analysis. All-cause mortality, HF-related hospitalizations and the composite of mortality and hospitalisation were reported in 8, 6 and 3 articles, respectively. Sodium restriction was associated with a higher risk of the composite endpoint (OR 4.12 [95% CI 1.23–13.82]) and did not significantly affect the all-cause mortality (OR 1.38 [95% CI 0.76–2.49]) or HF hospitalisation (OR 1.63 [95% CI 0.69–3.88]). Conclusions: In a meta-analysis, sodium restriction in CHF patients worsened the prognosis in terms of a composite of mortality and hospitalizations and did not influence all-cause mortality and HF hospitalisation rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a simple and versatile method for effectively replacing the toxic ligands, such as cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC), on the surface of Au nanospheres with different sizes by citrate. The method involves the deposition of an ultrathin shell of fresh Au in the presence of sodium citrate at an adequate concentration. After the ligand exchange process, multiple techniques are used to confirm that the surface of the resultant Au nanospheres is covered by citrate while there is no sign of aggregation. We also demonstrate the mitigation of cell toxicity after exchanging the surface‐bound CTAB/CTAC with citrate, opening the door to a range of biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing the energy density of layered oxide cathode materials is of great significance for realizing high‐performance sodium‐ion batteries and promoting their commercial application. Lattice oxygen redox at high voltage usually enables a high capacity and energy density. But the structural degradation, severe voltage decay, and the resultant poor cycling performance caused by irreversible oxygen release seriously restrict the practical application. Herein we introduce a novel fence‐type superstructure (2a×3a type supercell) into O3‐type layered cathode material Na0.9Li0.1Ni0.3Mn0.3Ti0.3O2 and achieve a stable cycling performance at a high voltage of 4.4 V. The fence‐type superstructure effectively inhibits the formation of the vacancy clusters resulting from out‐of‐plane Li migration and in‐plane transition metal migration at high voltage due to the wide d‐spacing, thereby significantly reducing the irreversible release of lattice oxygen and greatly stabilizing the crystal structure. The cathode exhibits a high energy density of 545 Wh kg−1, a high rate capability (112.8 mAh g−1 at 5 C) and a high cycling stability (85.8 %@200 cycles with a high initial capacity of 148.6 mAh g−1 at 1 C) accompanied by negligible voltage attenuation (98.5 %@200 cycles). This strategy provides a distinct spacing effect of superstructure to design stable high‐voltage layered cathode materials for Na‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A crucial aspect of successful conservation strategies is the identification of critical aspects of local habitats required for species preservation in a given region, such as salt licks. Tangkahan is adjacent to the Gunung Leuser National Park in North Sumatra, Indonesia. The park collaborates with the Indonesia Conservation Response Unit using captive Sumatran Elephants Elephas maximus sumatranus for forest patrols, mitigation of human-elephant negative interactions, public education, and ecotourism in the area. An initial study on the daily activities of captive Sumatran Elephants revealed their search for salt licks, which are essential for maintaining their optimal daily sodium intake. Information on salt licks in Tangkahan is limited and deserves further investigation. Ethical clearance is deemed unnecessary, as the research employs a non-invasive approach, exclusively observing the natural behaviors, and daily activities of elephants. The well-being of the elephants takes precedence over invasive technologies, with continuous monitoring ensuring their care throughout the research process. The study utilizes a descriptive-analytic methodology, tracking the daily movements of Sumatran Elephants to identify the locations of salt licks in the area. Four salt licks--Encepan-1, Encepan-2, Namo Cencen, and Hot Spring--were identified by participating in the elephants' territorial exploration. Although the salt licks were located adjacently, Encepan-1 was most frequently visited by the elephants. The salt licks were characterized as waterholes containing Na+ (Sodium ion) rich waters from springs. However, according to the atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) method, the sodium concentration in these salt licks ranged 34-55 ppm, which is estimated to be insufficient for the physiological requirements of the elephants. Therefore, further investigations are needed to explore other complementary salt licks and the incidence of geophagy to support the mineral needs of Sumatran Elephants in the Tangkahan region. A crucial aspect of successful conservation strategies is the identification of critical aspects of local habitats required for species preservation in a given region, such as salt licks. Tangkahan is adjacent to the Gunung Leuser National Park in North Sumatra, Indonesia. The park collaborates with the Indonesia Conservation Response Unit using captive Sumatran Elephants Elephas maximus sumatranus for forest patrols, mitigation of human-elephant negative interactions, public education, and ecotourism in the area. An initial study on the daily activities of captive Sumatran Elephants revealed their search for salt licks, which are essential for maintaining their optimal daily sodium intake. Information on salt licks in Tangkahan is limited and deserves further investigation. Ethical clearance is deemed unnecessary, as the research employs a non-invasive approach, exclusively observing the natural behaviors, and daily activities of elephants. The well-being of the elephants takes precedence over invasive technologies, with continuous monitoring ensuring their care throughout the research process. The study utilizes a descriptive-analytic methodology, tracking the daily movements of Sumatran Elephants to identify the locations of salt licks in the area. Four salt licks--Encepan-1, Encepan-2, Namo Cencen, and Hot Spring--were identified by participating in the elephants' territorial exploration. Although the salt licks were located adjacently, Encepan-1 was most frequently visited by the elephants. The salt licks were characterized as waterholes containing Na+ (Sodium ion) rich waters from springs. However, according to the atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) method, the sodium concentration in these salt licks ranged 34-55 ppm, which is estimated to be insufficient for the physiological requirements of the elephants. Therefore, further investigations are needed to explore other complementary salt licks and the incidence of geophagy to support the mineral needs of Sumatran Elephants in the Tangkahan region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bismuth (Bi) has attracted widespread attention for sodium storage due to its high electronic/ionic conductivity, suitable reaction potential, and theoretical capacity (386 mAh g−1). However, Bi electrodes have a relatively high volumetric expansion ratio, which constrains their high capacity and affects the battery's cycle performance. Herein, a highly dispersed Bi atomic cluster is controllably prepared anchored on a porous TiO2 substrate through in situ segregation from Bi4Ti3O12 (TiO2/BiAC). The highly dispersed Bi clusters can serve as an “Ionic sponge” and accommodate more Na+ without causing excessive stress. Additionally, it aids in the decomposition of NaPF6, leading to the formation of a durable solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer rich in inorganic components. As expected, TiO2/BiAC exhibits excellent sodium storage performance in terms of cycling stability (346 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles@ 1A g−1) and rate capability (231 mAh g−1 @ 100 A g−1). The pouch cell is further assembled and exhibits a specific capacity of 1.2 Ah after 200 cycles. This discovery presents a new method for developing efficient anode materials and is essential for steering the advancement of anode materials with fast charge–discharge capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of admirable hydrogel networks is of both practical and fundamental importance for diverse applications of hydrogels. Herein a general strategy of acid‐assisted training is designed to enable multiple improvements of conventional poly (sodium acrylate) networks for hydrogels. Hydrophobic homogeneous crosslinked poly (sodium acrylate) hydrogels are prepared to verify the strategy. The multiple improvements of poly (sodium acrylate) networks are simply achieved by immersing the hydrogel networks into 4 M H2SO4 solutions. The introduced acids would induce transformation of poly (sodium acrylate) into poly (acrylic acid) at hydrogel surface, which constructs dynamic hydrogen bonding interactions to tighten the network. The acid‐containing poly (sodium acrylate) hydrogels newly generate anti‐swelling and self‐healing performance, and show mechanical improvement. The internal poly (sodium acrylate) of the pristine acid‐containing hydrogels is further fully transformed via acid‐infiltration after following cyclic stretch/release training to significantly improve the mechanical performance. The Young's modulus, stress, and toughness of the fully‐trained hydrogels are 187.6 times, 35.6 times, and 5.4 times enhanced, respectively. The polymeric networks retain isotropic in fully‐trained hydrogels to ensure superior stretchability of 8.6. The acid‐assisted training performance of the hydrogels can be reversibly recovered by NaOH neutralization. The acid‐assisted training strategy here is general for poly (sodium acrylate) hydrogels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For 11 minerals of the lovozerite group, theoretical investigations of Na+-ion migration were performed. The combination of GT, BVSE, and DFT-NEB approaches allows for studying the relationship between the crystallochemical energetic characteristics and ion-conductive properties of solid electrolytes. The constructed tilings made it possible to establish common types of cavities (tiles) for these structures. The location of sodium in large cavities suggests that these cavities can serve as new building blocks for modeling zeolite-like frameworks. GT analysis indicated that combeite, townendite, kapustinite and kazakovite have the widest Na+-migration paths among the 11 minerals. Using the BVSE approach, values of the migration barriers were obtained. For combeite, townendite, kapustinite and zolotarevite, the values of the migration barriers are in the range of 0.60–0.80 eV. DFT-NEB modeling results are in good agreement with the results from BVSE and GT analyses. It was found that minerals of this group have structures that are promising for the creation of new cation-conducting materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient method for the synthesis of a self‐supporting carbon framework (denoted Gra‐GC‐MoSe2) is proposed with a triple‐gradient structure—in sodiophilic sites, pore volume, and electrical conductivity—which facilitates the highly efficient regulation of Na deposition. In situ and ex situ measurements, together with theoretical calculations, reveal that the gradient distribution of Se heteroatoms in MoSe2, and its derivatives tailor the sodiophilicity, while the gradient distribution of porous nanostructures homogenizes the Na+ diffusion. Therefore, Na deposition occurs from the bottom to the top of the Gra‐GC‐MoSe2 framework without dendrite formation. In addition, the gradient in electrical conductivity ensures the stripping process does not lead to dead Na. As a result, a Gra‐GC‐MoSe2 modified Na anode (Na@Gra‐GC‐MoSe2) shows impressive cycling stability with a high average Coulombic efficiency in an asymmetric cell. In symmetric cells, it also exhibits a long cycling life of 2000 h with a low polarization voltage and works stably even under a large capacity of 10 mAh cm−2. Moreover, a Na@Gra‐GC‐MoSe2|| Na3V2(PO4)3 full cell delivers a high energy density with an excellent cycling performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air sensitivity remains a substantial barrier to the commercialization of sodium (Na)-layered oxides (NLOs). This problem has puzzled the community for decades because of the complexity of interactions between air components and their impact on both bulk and surfaces of NLOs. We show here that water vapor plays a pivotal role in initiating destructive acid and oxidative degradations of NLOs only when coupled with carbon dioxide or oxygen, respectively. Quantification analysis revealed that reducing the defined cation competition coefficient (η), which integrates the effects of ionic potential and sodium content, and increasing the particle size can enhance the resistance to acid attack, whereas using high-potential redox couples can eliminate oxidative degradation. These findings elucidate the underlying air deterioration mechanisms and rationalize the design of air-stable NLOs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium batteries, encompassing sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) and sodium metal batteries (SMBs), have emerged as a significant trend in the advancement of secondary batteries owing to the natural abundance and economical characteristics of sodium. Despite significant strides in enhancing the electrochemical performance of sodium batteries, understanding their sodium storage mechanism and the factors contributing to capacity degradation remains a challenge. The utilization of in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) enables direct observation and a comprehensive investigation of the structure and chemical evolution of electrodes and interfaces during dynamic electrochemical processes. This review first systematically explores the fundamental mechanism of in situ TEM in the context of rechargeable batteries. Then, recent advancements in applying in situ TEM to sodium batteries including SIBs and SMBs are detailed. Finally, this review emphasizes potential opportunities and challenges for the future development of in situ TEM in the realm of sodium batteries, highlighting its significance in unraveling crucial aspects of their operation and guiding further advancements in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]