Low Iron Content Research Articles

Association between iron content in grey matter nuclei and functional outcome in patients with acute ischaemic stroke: A quantitative susceptibility mapping study.

This study aimed to investigate the association between iron content in grey matter (GM) nuclei and functional outcome in acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) patients utilizing quantitative susceptibility mapping. Forty AIS patients and 40 age-, sex- and education-matched healthy controls underwent quantitative susceptibility mapping to assess susceptibility values, which are positively correlated with iron content, in the caudate nucleus, putamen, globus pallidus, thalamus, red nucleus and substantia nigra. The nuclei on the contralateral side were measured in AIS patients to minimize confounding due to oedema or haemorrhage. Functional outcome was determined by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 3 months after stroke. Poor outcome was defined as mRS >2, whilst a good outcome was defined as ≤2. Susceptibility values were significantly higher in most contralateral GM nuclei in AIS patients than in the corresponding left or right nuclei in healthy controls. AIS patients with poor outcome showed significantly lower susceptibility value than those with good outcome in the contralateral caudate nucleus, but no significant differences were observed in other GM nuclei. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association between the susceptibility value of the contralateral caudate nucleus and poor outcome after adjustment for confounders (adjusted odds ratio 0.692, 95% confidence interval 0.486-0.986, p = 0.042). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed an acceptable ability of the susceptibility value of the contralateral caudate nucleus to predict poor outcome (area under the curve 0.740, p = 0.013). Lower iron content in the contralateral caudate nucleus was associated with poor functional outcome in AIS patients.

Low Sintering Temperature Effect on Crystal Structure and Dielectric Properties of Lead-Free Piezoelectric Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3-NaFeTiO4

Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 (BNT) emerges as a promising ferroelectric and piezoelectric lead-free candidate to substitute the contaminant Pb[TixZr1−x]O3 (PZT). However, to obtain optimal ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties, BNT must be sintered at high temperatures. In this work, the reduction of sintering temperature by using iron added to BNT is demonstrated, without significant detriment to the dielectric properties. BNT-xFe with iron from x = 0 to 0.1 mol (∆x = 0.025) were synthesized using high-energy ball milling followed by sintering at 900 °C. XRD analysis confirmed the presence of rhombohedral BNT together with a new phase of NaFeTiO4 (NFT), which was also corroborated using optical and electronic microscopy. The relative permittivity, in the range of 400 to 500 across all the frequencies, demonstrated the stabilization effect of the iron in BNT. Additionally, the presence of iron elevates the transition from ferroelectric to paraelectric structure, increasing it from 330 °C in the iron-free sample to 370 °C in the sample with the maximum iron concentration (0.1 mol). The dielectric losses maintain constant values lower than 0.1. In this case, low dielectric loss values are ideal for ferroelectric and piezoelectric materials, as they ensure minimal energy dissipation. Likewise, the electrical conductivity maintains a semiconductor behavior across a range of 50 Hz to 1 × 106 Hz, indicating the potential of these materials for applications at different frequencies. Additionally, the piezoelectric constant (d33) values decrease slightly when low concentrations of iron are added, maintaining values between 30 and 48 pC/N for BNT-0.025Fe and BNT-0.05Fe, respectively.

Removal of iron and aluminum from hydrometallurgical NMC-LFP recycling process through precipitation

There is a need to develop removal strategies for typical battery impurities–iron and aluminum–from actual hydrometallurgical recycling solutions. In this work, the investigated solution originated from lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) rich black mass, while iron phosphate (LFP) was used as an in situ reductant. It was found that the presence of phosphate ions supported selective iron precipitation already at pH = 2.0 (T = 60 °C, t = 3 h, NaOH), with nearly complete iron removal (97.8 %). The precipitate was rich in iron (21.5 wt%) and phosphorus (13.4 wt%); it also contained 0.7 wt% Ni and 0.3–0.4 wt% Mn, Co, Al, and Li. It is suggested that the presence of phosphate in minor amounts may cause this co-precipitation of battery metals. With the aim of combined precipitation of iron (100 %) and aluminum (91.0 %), the pH was increased up to 4.5. Although 90.8 % of fluoride precipitated, the remaining fluorides may have kept the aluminum partially in soluble form as Al-F complexes. The formed precipitate had lower iron (18.4 wt%) and phosphorus (11.4 wt%) content, whereas the impurity contents and thus the battery metals losses were slightly higher: Ni, Mn, Co, Al, and Cu were each between 1.1–1.9 wt% and Li and F < 1 wt%. In the precipitates investigated, iron was found predominantly as iron phosphate (FePO4), whereas a minor fraction also precipitated as iron fluoride (FeF3). The precipitated aluminum existed mainly as AlOOH. The results presented here will help to build iron and aluminum removal strategies for industrial battery recycling solutions, and also provide insights into the dominant iron and aluminum phases forming the precipitates.

Improving Iron Content in Sustainable Mycoprotein Production through Seawater Fermentation

The growing global population and rising protein demand are straining freshwater resources. Fusarium venenatum (Fv) mycoprotein offers a sustainable protein alternative, with environmental efficiency and potential health benefits. However, its low iron content remains a concern, especially for vegetarians and vegans. This study introduces a sustainable approach, employing seawater as a fermentation medium for Fv production. Our analysis reveals that mycoprotein derived from SEA Fv exhibits elevated levels of sodium and calcium, with a notably high iron content (2.2 mg/100g wet weight). The sodium content, while 3.31 times higher than in non-seawater fermentation, remains within recommended daily intake parameters. No plasticizers or heavy metals were detected in the SEA Fv cell body, minimizing long-term toxicity risks from seawater use. A unique metabolite, dihydroorotic acid, was identified from an in-house library of 774 metabolites, serving as an internal biomarker for seawater-based production methods. An acute safety study condensing 600g of SEA Fv to simulate high mycoprotein digestion showed no effects on key physical behaviors or major organs, including the heart and lungs. This positions the product as a viable protein alternative with enhanced iron content, highlighting seawater-based fermentation as a sustainable method for future food production and industry progress.

Utility of iron concentration two to four hours post ingestion in predicting toxicity

IntroductionIron products are widely available over the counter and have the potential to cause serious toxicity. Iron concentrations can be used to prognosticate and guide treatment during acute ingestions. Traditionally, a concentration of 350 μg/dL with symptoms, or 500 μg/dL without symptoms, is considered toxic and will likely need treatment to prevent decompensation. It is generally recommended that an iron concentration is obtained at least 4 h after exposure to provide adequate absorption time and avoid falsely low iron concentrations. Despite this, many iron overdoses have concentrations drawn immediately upon patient presentation. The utility of an iron concentration drawn before 4 h in assessing exposure risk is not clear. The purpose of this study is to determine if patients' symptoms and iron concentrations obtained between 2 and 4 h can predict the development of iron concentrations after 4 h. MethodsThis is a single-center, retrospective study of patient cases with a primary ingestion of oral iron reported to a Regional Poison Center from January 1, 2015 to January 1, 2020. The primary outcome is the incidence of an iron concentration of 350 μg/dL or greater at or beyond 4 h. Secondary outcomes include the incidence of antidotal deferoxamine administration, incidence of iron concentration > 500 μg/dL, incidence of positive findings on abdominal radiography, and time to highest reported iron concentration. ResultA total of 75 patients were included in this study. No patients who developed at most minor symptoms (abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea without evidence of systemic toxicity) and had a 2-to-4-h concentration ≤ 300 μg/dL symptoms had a subsequent concentration > 350 μg/dL (negative predictive value [NPV] 100 %). Deferoxamine was used to treat five patients, all reached concentrations of >300 μg/dL 2–4-h post-ingestion. ConclusionPatients with only minor GI symptoms and an iron concentration of ≤300 μg/dL between 2 and 4-h post ingestion are unlikely to develop further toxicity. In this case series, a concentration of 300 μg/dL or less between 2 and 4 h was the ideal cutoff to predicting subsequent potentially toxic concentrations, with a sensitivity of 100 % and a specificity of 54 %.

Mineral Signatures in Oued K’sob River (Algeria): Highlighting Geological Variations and Potential Anthropogenic Impacts

This study examines the mineral composition of sediment samples collected from five distinct zones along the Oued K’sob River in Bordj Bou Arreridj, Algeria using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The analysis revealed intriguing patterns, the Zone 5 emerged as a distinct outlier, exhibiting significantly lower calcium (29.32% vs. 53.25% in Zone 1) and iron (14.94% vs. 6.31% in Zone 1) content compared to other zones, while displaying a higher silicon content (28.82% vs. 25.27% in Zone 1). This suggests a unique geological origin or specific weathering processes shaping the mineral fingerprint of Zone 5. Interestingly, Zones 1, 2, and 3 displayed a relative consistency in silicon content (around 25%, with pairwise comparisons exceeding p &gt; 0.05), suggesting potential similarities in mineral sources or enrichment mechanisms within their watersheds. However, Zone 4 deviated slightly, showing a higher calcium content (64.18% vs. 29.32% in Zone 5) and lower silicon content (17.99% vs. 28.82% in Zone 5), indicating potential differences in its geological makeup or weathering processes. Furthermore, all zones exhibited trace amounts of elements like lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) (ranging from 0.76% to 2.16% for Pb and 0.000% to 0.114% for Cd) (Please recheck these values They are very high). This warrants further investigation to understand their potential anthropogenic origins and impact on the river ecosystem. Further investigations incorporating detailed geological surveys, isotopic analyses, and expanded sampling strategies are recommended to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the complex factors shaping the sediment chemistry within the Oued K’sob River system.

Major evidence of nutritional and metabolic management in the context of bariatric surgery: a systematic review

Introduction: Approximately $315 billion is spent annually on the medical cost of obesity in adult patients in the United States alone. According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), the rate of bariatric surgery (BS) increased from 158,000 in 2011 to 196,000 in 2015. This increase in invasive techniques does not eliminate unhealthy habits, therefore, lifestyle modifications, such as healthy eating and correct physical activity programs, can improve surgical results. Objective: To establish the main nutritional and metabolic management strategies in the context of bariatric surgery, to modulate and reduce the problems caused by nutrient deficit. Methods: The systematic review rules of the PRISMA Platform were followed. The search was conducted from May to June 2024 in the Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases. The quality of the studies was based on the GRADE instrument and the risk of bias was analyzed according to the Cochrane instrument. Results and Conclusion: A total of 135 articles were found. 42 articles were fully evaluated and 18 were included and developed in the present systematic review study. Considering the Cochrane tool for risk of bias, the overall assessment resulted in 22 studies with a high risk of bias and 24 that did not meet GRADE and AMSTAR-2. Most studies presented homogeneity in their results, with X2=79.7%&gt;50%. It was concluded that the recommendations were gathered to assist in individualized clinical practice in the nutritional management of patients with obesity. In general, patients with obesity have significantly lower concentrations of serum iron, folic acid, vitamins A, B6, B12, C, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and lipid-standardized vitamin E. Before bariatric surgery, nutritional status should be analyzed and preoperative weight loss can be attempted. Very low-calorie diets and very low-calorie ketogenic diets are prescribed in the last months before surgery. It was noted that the recommendations were gathered to assist in individualized clinical practice in the nutritional management of patients with obesity, including nutritional management. Iron status may be affected by adipose tissue inflammation and increased expression of the systemic iron regulatory protein hepcidin. The postoperative recommendation for vitamin B12 (cobalamin) should be 350-500 micrograms/1000 micrograms monthly, and for folate (folic acid) in the postoperative period should be 1000 micrograms per day.

Dominant role of soil iron and organic matters in arsenic transfer from soil to plant in a mine area in Hunan Province, Central China.

The transfer of arsenic (As) from soil to plant could be significantly influenced by soil parameters through regulating soil As bioavailability. To distinguish the bioavailable As provided by soil and the As uptaken by plants, herein two different soil bioavailable were defined, namely potential soil bioavailable As (evaluated through the bioavailable fraction of As) and actual soil bioavailable As (assessed through plant bioaccumulation factor, BF, and BFavailable). To identify the dominant soil parameters for the two soil bioavailable As forms, soil and plant samples were collected from a former As mine site. The results showed that the potential bioavailable As only accounted for 1.77 to 11.43% in the sampled soils, while the BF and BFavailable in the sampled vegetables ranged from 0.00 to 1.01 and 0.01 to 17.87, respectively. Despite a similar proportion of As in the residual fraction, soil with higher pH and organic matter (OM) content and lower iron (Fe) content showed a higher potential soil bioavailable As. Correlation analysis indicated a relationship between the soil pH and potential soil bioavailable As (r = 0.543, p < 0.01) and between the soil Fe and actual soil bioavailable As (r = - 0.644, p < 0.05, r = - 0.594, p < 0.05). Stepwise multiple linear regression (SMLR) analysis was employed to identify the dominant soil parameters and showed that soil pH and phosphorus (P) content could be used to predict the potential soil bioavailable As (R2 = 0.69, p < 0.001). On the other hand, soil Fe and OM could be used to predict the actual soil bioavailable As (R2 = 0.18-0.86, p < 0.001-0.015, in different vegetables). These results suggest that different soil parameters affect potential and actual soil bioavailable As. Hence, soil Fe and OM are the most important parameters controlling As transfer from soil to plant in the investigated area.

Formulation of complementary flours from pretreated pumpkin pulp, soybeans and spinach leaves: Nutritional, functional and sensory characterization

One of the major causes of the high prevalence of young children suffering from malnutrition in developed countries is inadequate complementary feeding practices, and especially the low quality of homemade complementary foods. The present study aimed to use available local plant foods to formulate a complementary flour Which can be able to meet energy and nutrients requirements of children aged from 6 to 23 months. To achieve this goal, pumpkin was fermented, soybean soaked and roasted, and spinach steamed. The pre-treated ingredients were ground to obtain individual flours, which were blended in various proportions to obtain four complementary flours (PSS1, PSS2, PSS3, PSS4). The proximate and micronutrient composition, and the energy value of the blends were determined, and based on the results, two of them, that is; (PSS1 [Pumpkin 70 %/Soybean 25 %/Spinach 5 %], and PSS2 [Pumpkin 65 %/Soybean 25 %/Spinach 10 %]) were selected to pursue the Study. The functional properties (water absorption capacity, water solubility index, bulk density) and pasting properties of these two flours were then evaluated. Gruels were prepared from the flours and their energy densities, physical as well as sensory properties were evaluated. Moisture, ash, protein, fat, and sugar contents of PSS1 and PSS2 met the FAO/WHO standards. Fiber content in both flours was higher than the recommendation. Vitamin A and iron were sufficient in PSS2, while PSS1 had low iron content. Calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium content of PSS1 and PSS2 were significantly higher than the standards. PSS1 and PSS2 had good water absorption capacity and solubility index, with low viscosity values (213 and 173 cP respectively), interesting functional properties for complementary flours. The gruels prepared with PSS1 and PSS2 flours had good fluidity and energy densities. They were fairly appreciated based on their organoleptic characteristics, with scores of 5.96 and 5.75 for overall acceptability. PSS2 could be recommended as infant flour rich in iron, vitamin A, and protein, with good nutritional values and functional properties.

Fe-doped NiO nanoparticles: Microscopic and spectroscopic characterizations

Ni1−xFexO single phase nanoparticles, synthesized by lyophilization and heat treatment, were characterized by microscopic and spectroscopic techniques searching for evidence of a core-shell structure. Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and more extensively Mössbauer spectroscopy were applied in this study. Consistent with structural and magnetic analyses previously reported, these findings support the plausibility of a core-shell structure in Ni1−xFexO nanoparticles. The shell was found to be very thin and more iron-rich than the core. The core has a lower iron concentration than the nominal overall concentration. The nanoparticles were not completely magnetized at room temperature, but below 200 °C the iron moments froze almost completely.

Role of Low Amount of Iron Intake from Groundwater for Prevention of Anemia in Children: A Cross-Sectional Study in Rural Bangladesh.

In Bangladesh, groundwater, the principal source of drinking water, contains predominantly high levels of iron. Drinking groundwater is associated with good iron status in populations. Against this backdrop, iron supplementation is often associated with side effects, which reduces its intake compliance. However, the level of iron in groundwater is not consistent, and low levels exist in many areas of the country. In the present study, we examined the role of groundwater with a low concentration of iron in the prevention of anemia in Bangladeshi children. In 2018, a cross-sectional study was conducted in Bangladesh among children aged 2-5 years (n = 122) who drank groundwater containing a low level of iron (0-<2 mg/L). The combined intake of iron was calculated from the key sources-diet, groundwater, and the simulated intake of MNPs. The intakes of iron were compared against the standard reference intake. The children's hemoglobin levels were measured using a photometer. The combined intake of iron from diet, groundwater with low levels of iron, and the simulated consumption of low-iron MNP in children was 5.8 ± 2.0 and 6.9 ± 2.5 mg/day, comprising 193% and 169% of the Estimated Average Requirements in the 2-3-year-old and 4-5-year-old subgroups, respectively. The combined intake of bioavailable iron from dietary and low-iron groundwater was 0.42 ± 0.023 and 0.22 ± 0.019 mg/day in children exposed to groundwater concentrations of 0.8-<2.0 mg/L and 0.0-<0.8 mg/L, respectively (p < 0.001). The mean concentration of hemoglobin in the respective groups was 12.17 ± 0.94 g/dL and 11.91 ± 0.91 g/dL (p = 0.30). The combined intake of iron from diet and the low-iron groundwater was associated with maintenance of hemoglobin concentration at the non-anemic level in > 90% of the children. The findings highlight the protective influence of the low concentration of iron in the drinking groundwater against childhood anemia in Bangladesh.

Influence of an iron dextran injection in various diseases on hematological blood parameters, including serum ferritin, neonatal dairy calves

BackgroundFeeding milk substitutes with low iron content or whole milk without iron supplementation is considered a major factor in developing iron-deficiency anemia in neonatal dairy calves. Young calves are often supplemented with iron dextran injections on the first day of life to prevent anemia. However, the effects of preventive treatment and the presence of disease on serum iron (Fe) concentrations, serum ferritin levels, and hematological blood parameters during the early neonatal stages have not been examined in detail. Therefore, we examined and evaluated the effects of iron dextran injections and health status on the development of hematocrit (Ht), red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), erythrocyte indices (mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration), Fe, and serum ferritin concentrations in dairy calves within the first 10 days of life. The suitability of serum ferritin as a reliable indicator of anemia in very young calves was evaluated by correlating ferritin concentrations with known laboratory diagnostic parameters of anemia.ResultsIron supplementation significantly increased Fe levels (P = 0.048) but did not affect serum ferritin levels in neonatal calves. Fe concentrations were significantly lower in diseased than healthy calves (P = 0.0417). Iron supplementation significantly affected the health status, as observed in Ht (Ptreat=0.0057; Phealth=0.0097), RBC (Ptreat=0.0342; Phealth=0.0243), and Hb (Ptreat=0.0170; Phealth=0.0168). Serum ferritin levels did not significantly correlate with Fe levels. Both groups showed marked differences in ferritin levels, with the highest levels measured on day 2. Fe concentrations showed weak negative correlations with Hb and Ht levels on day 3 (ρ=-0.45; P = 0.0034 and ρ=-0.045; P = 0.0032, respectively). RBC count showed strong positive correlations with Hb and Ht levels (ρ = 0.91 and ρ = 0.93; P < 0.001).ConclusionIron dextran injections increased Fe concentrations but reduced Ht level, RBC count, and Hb level. The presence of diseases led to a reduction in Fe and higher values of Ht, RBC, and Hb in moderate disease than in severe disease. Due to physiological fluctuations during the first 3 days of life, serum ferritin level seems unuseful for evaluating iron storage before day 4 of life.

The Role of Iron Impurities on Nickel Cathodes for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER)

Over the last decades, several studies have reported the effect of traces of iron species on the improvement of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) kinetics for nickel-based anode materials in alkaline media. [1] However, the effect of iron impurities on the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is still a subject to debate. For instance, at low iron concentrations (0.03 – 0.5 ppm) a loss of the HER activity for Ni surface is observed due to the electrochemical deposition of less active Fe. [2,3] Other studies showed less deactivation behavior of the Ni cathode at 3 and 14 ppm iron ion concentration over time. [2,4] This improvement of the lifetime of the Ni electrode in the presence of iron cations is very likely related to the increased surface roughness by Fe electrodeposition and thereby the decrease in the formation of inactive NiH species. [2] Systematic investigations on Fe sputtered Ni surfaces with different coverages showed that ≥ 60% of Fe coverage stabilizes the Ni cathode by preventing hydrogen diffusion through the Ni lattice at constant current density of -100 mA cm-2. [5] Generally, the role of Fe impurities on the HER activity for nickel cathode surface in alkaline environments is still unclear to date.In this work, we comprehensively evaluated the influence of the iron ion concentration on the long-term HER performance for a polycrystalline Ni electrode by using rotating disc electrode (RDE) setup. The changes in HER activity as a function of the iron ion concentration was correlated with resulting surface roughness and layer thickness/coverage of the electrodeposited iron. Highly purified 0.1 M KOH was used as basic electrolyte solution and mixed with iron ion concentrations in the range of <1, 6 and 14 ppm. The initial HER activity on the Ni surface is unchanged irrespective of the iron ion concentration added into the electrolyte. However, at iron ion concentrations of <1 ppm and 6 ppm, the chronopotentiometric (CP) experiments at -10 mA cm-2 for 24 hours show a potential drop of ~70 mV and ~53 mV, respectively, resulting in a deactivation of the Ni surface by forming NiH species. Very interestingly, high iron ion concentrations (e.g. ~14 ppm) lead to an almost constant potential (~ 1 - 7 mV drop) during the CP experiment, by reducing the formation of inactive NiH. The electrochemically treated Ni electrodes were then characterized by X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) and scanning electron microscopy in combination of energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). The SEM micrographs show iron particles electrodeposited uniformly on the polycrystalline Ni surface after the CP experiments with < 1, 6 and 14 ppm of iron ion concentrations in 0.1 M KOH. The analysis of the EDX maps reveals a coverage of 17, 54 and 58 % on the Ni surface at iron ion concentrations of < 1, 6 and 14 ppm, respectively. Obviously, iron ion concentrations of 6 and 14 pm show very similar coverages on the Ni surface, indicating their minor role on the HER activity. We suggest that during the HER the hydrogen bubbles suppress the formation of a dense and complete iron layer on the Ni electrode surface. The spatial distribution and thickness of the electrodeposited Fe particles were also evaluated after 1 h and 24 h of CP experiments with < 1, 6 and 14 ppm iron ion concentrations by using micro-XRF equipped with a polycapillary lens of 20 µm. Thicker iron layers after 24 hours are formed at high iron ion concentrations, preventing the hydrogen diffusion into Ni lattice to form inactive NiH species and to maintain the HER activity over time under alkaline conditions.In summary, we show that traces of iron impurities have a huge impact on the long-term durability of polycrystalline Ni electrodes for HER in alkaline environments. A critical iron ion concentration is required to suppress the formation of inactive NiH species during the HER at -10 mA cm-2 for 24 h and/or to electrodeposite enough iron for maintaining the HER kinetics on the polycrystalline Ni electrodes in alkaline environments.

Enhanced degradation of 2,4-DCP in a bicarbonate-modified Fenton with EDTA under near-neutral conditions

To address the issues of low pH requirements and low active iron content in the traditional Fenton system, bicarbonate in this study was presented in Fenton system to form HCO4− through reaction with hydrogen peroxide (HCO3––H2O2, BAP) and activated by FeⅡ-EDTA to enhance the degradation of 2,4-DCP under near-neutral conditions. 2,4-DCP can be totally degraded after 60 min of reaction at pH of approximately 6.4 under the optimal concentrations of Fe2+, NaHCO3 and EDTA-2Na of 4 mmol·L−1, 10 mmol·L−1 and 2 mmol·L−1, respectively. In addition to serving as a reactant in the reaction between bicarbonate and hydrogen peroxide to form the intermediate HCO4−, bicarbonate also functions as a pH buffer to bring the solution’s pH closer to neutral. The introduction of EDTA-2Na can effectively inhibit iron precipitation to promote maintaining the existence of Fe in dissolved form, improving the catalytic capacity of the system and reduce the dosage of Fe2+. The primary involvement of ·OH in the reaction process was validated by free radical quenching studies and EPR testing; the contributions of 1O2 and O2·− were very small.

Integrated analysis of ammonium origins in a Serbian anoxic alluvial aquifer: Insight from physicochemical, isotopic, microbiological data

The significance of examining groundwater quality is highlighted by the fact that 75% of the European Union population relies on groundwater for their water supply. In the Republic of Serbia, over 50% of the groundwater used for public water supply comes from alluvial aquifers, with 80–90% of this water originating from river water infiltration. This study investigates the origin of increased ammonium concentrations (up to 4.7 mgN/l) in the Danube alluvial aquifer near Kovin-Dubovac area, Serbia, a potential future regional water supply source surrounded by intensive agricultural production and an open coal mine. Comprehensive research involved statistical processing of physicochemical data (13 parameters from 33 sampling sites), isotopic analyses (δ15N–NH4 – 12 samples; δ34S–SO4, δ18O–SO4 in 5 samples), and microbiological tests (denitrifying, sulphate-reducing, iron-related, and heterotrophic aerobic bacteria in 15 samples). Factor analysis revealed significant positive loadings (>0.5) among indicators of autochthonous organic matter origin (Fe2+, Fetot, and TOC), geological matrix components (Na, H2S, Cl), and groundwater state parameters (pH, Eh, and NH4+). This multifaceted approach and the spatial concentration gradients of parameters associated within extracted principal components revealed the predominance of two NH4+ sources. The riparian zone is characterized by sediment organic matter mineralization, increased iron content, and natural ammonium origin (δ15N–NH4+ from +4.82‰ to +6.93‰) accompanied by conditions suitable for DNRA and sulphate reduction. Approaching to the hinterland lower iron and total organic matter content, accompanied by increased redox values revealed the signature of fertilizers application (δ15N–NH4+ −0.84‰ and −0.33‰), associated with denitrification influence. This multifaceted approach reduces ambiguity, providing a clearer interpretation of results when discerning the origin of nitrogen and aquifer potential for nitrogen loss or conservation in a reducing groundwater environment.

Influence of iron content of chemically and mineralogically modified electric arc furnace slag on the hydration and environmental behaviour of composite cements

This work investigates the influence of the iron content of tailored electric arc furnace slag (EAFS) on hydration and strength development as well as associated heavy metal leaching properties of Portland composite cement. Further, the impact of limestone additions was investigated. EAFS from scrap smelting plant was used as starting material. Tailored EAFS was produced by re-melting, conditioning, and water quenching. By that, a glassy material with defined chemistry was obtained. The tailored EAFS strongly contributed to the compressive strength development between 7 and 28 days. Composite cements containing 35 wt.-% EAFS reached an activity index above 85 % after 28 days. The addition of limestone and amine-based quality improvers resulted in an increase of the reached compressive strength at all tested ages. That is linked to the accelerated and increased AFm phase formation. This effect is more pronounced for EAFS with high iron content. Contrary, C-S-H formation was promoted if EAFS with low iron content was used. Chromium leaching was not critical despite the high content in the tailored EAFS. The lowest vanadium leaching was observed for EAFS with low iron content.

Geological evidence for extensive basin ejecta as plains terrains in the Moon’s South Polar Region

Water ice and other volatiles that accumulated in the Moon’s polar regions are among the top priority targets for lunar exploration, due to their significances in both lunar geology and extraterrestrial resource utilization. Locating suitable landing sites and determining the provenance of sampled/measured surface materials are critical for future landed missions. Here, we map over 800 sites of plains terrains in the Moon’s south polar region, with a total surface area of ~46,000 km2. Orbital measurements and analog studies show that most of these plains have apparently higher albedo and lower iron content than volcanic mare plains, suggesting an origin of ejecta-induced debris flows from distant impact craters, especially from the Schrödinger basin. Our findings suggest that the entire lunar south polar region probably have experienced contributions from distant basin materials. We recommend these plains as priority landing sites for future exploration of lunar polar volatiles and early bombardment history.

Effect of particle size distribution of sediments on development of polder soils in Japan

Abstract Purpose Polder soils develop from oceanic and lacustrine sediments covered with seawater, brackish water, and freshwater after artificial drainage. Because there are several concerns regarding the agricultural use of polder soils, soil genesis and properties have been considerably surveyed, mainly focusing on problematic soils developed from fine sediments. Although sediments have a wide range of particle size distributions due to different sedimentary conditions, particle size of parent materials have not been well addressed to understand the soil developmental process. In this study, Japanese polders with different reclamation ages and sedimentary conditions were surveyed to clarify the soil formation process and factors affecting pedogenesis. Materials and methods Soil samples were collected from 15 soil profiles in six Japanese polders under different land use types. Sedimentary conditions of polders were evaluated from particle size distributions using the hydrodynamic classification proposed by Pejrup (The triangular diagram used for classification of estuarine sediments: a new approach. Tide-influenced Sediment Environ Facies, pp 289–300, 1988). The major soil-forming factors of polders were extracted by principal component analysis (PCA) using general soil properties. Results and discussion Brackish lake and inner bay polders were characterized by calm hydrodynamic conditions comprising fine particles. Two polders reclaimed from a shallow inland sea were characterized by violent hydrodynamic conditions. Sandy sediments were also characteristic of immature soils reclaimed from a freshwater lake and an estuarine tidal flat. Soils on polders developed under calm hydrodynamic conditions enabled the accumulation of high total carbon content. The soil-forming process in the brackish bay oxidized pyrite, leading to an acidic soil reaction. Conversely, soils developed from sandy sediments were characterized by low iron content. The PCA extracted two factors explained by particle size and soil reaction relating to acidification and salt leaching. Conclusion Polder soils can be mainly discriminated by their particle size distributions, which are characterized by hydrodynamics under the sedimentary conditions, and the polder soil development is affected by water management in land uses after artificial drainage.

Exploring the dependence of chemical traits on metallicity

Context. Given the massive spectroscopic surveys and the Gaia mission, the Milky Way has turned into a unique laboratory to be explored using abundance ratios that show a strong dependence on time. Within this framework, the data provided through asteroseismology serve as a valuable complement. Even so, it has been demonstrated that chemical traits cannot be used as universal relations across the Galaxy. Aims. To complete this picture, it is important to investigate the dependence on metallicity of the chemical ratios employed for inferring stellar ages. We aim to explore different combinations of neutron-capture, odd-Z, and α elements as a function of age, particularly focusing on their metallicity dependence for a sample of 74 giant field stars. Methods. Using UVES observations, we derived atmospheric parameters and high-precision line-by-line chemical abundances (&lt; 0.04 dex) for the entire set of spectra, which covers a wide spread in ages (up to 14 Gyr) and metallicities (−0.7 &lt; [Fe/H] &lt; +0.1). Stellar ages are inferred from astereoseismic information. Results. By fitting chemical-age trends for three different metallicity groups, we estimated their dependence on metallicity. Simultaneously, we identified those exhibiting stronger correlations with time. We found that the stronger chemical-age relations ([Zr/α]) are not necessarily the ratios with the smaller dependence on metallicity ([Ce/α] and [Ce/Eu]). Conclusions. We confirm the [n-capture/α]-age trends for evolved stars, wherein the most significant correlation is evident in stars with solar metallicity, gradually diminishing in stars with lower iron content. The lack of homogeneity within the metallicity range highlights the intricate nature of our Galaxy’s star formation history and yield production. The dependence on metallicity of the yields involving s-process elements and the influence of radial stellar migration pose challenges to relying solely on chemical abundances for dating stars. These findings contest the feasibility of establishing universally applicable chemical clocks that are valid across the entire Galaxy and across various metallicity ranges.

Recommendations for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia.

Iron is an essential nutrient and a constituent of ferroproteins and enzymes crucial for human life. Generally, nonmenstruating individuals preserve iron very efficiently, losing less than 0.1% of their body iron content each day, an amount that is replaced through dietary iron absorption. Most of the iron is in the hemoglobin (Hb) of red blood cells (RBCs); thus, blood loss is the most common cause of acute iron depletion and anemia worldwide, and reduced hemoglobin synthesis and anemia are the most common consequences of low plasma iron concentrations. The term iron deficiency (ID) refers to the reduction of total body iron stores due to impaired nutrition, reduced absorption secondary to gastrointestinal conditions, increased blood loss, and increased needs as in pregnancy. Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is defined as low Hb or hematocrit associated with microcytic and hypochromic erythrocytes and low RBC count due to iron deficiency. IDA most commonly affects women of reproductive age, the developing fetus, children, patients with chronic and inflammatory diseases, and the elderly. IDA is the most frequent hematological disorder in children, with an incidence in industrialized countries of 20.1% between 0 and 4 years of age and 5.9% between 5 and 14 years (39% and 48.1% in developing countries). The diagnosis, management, and treatment of patients with ID and IDA change depending on age and gender and during pregnancy. We herein summarize what is known about the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of ID and IDA and formulate a specific set of recommendations on this topic.