CoCrFeNiMn high-entropy alloy coatings were prepared on compacted graphite iron（CGI） through plasma cladding to strength the CGI substrate. The effects of heat treatment temperatures and times on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the CoCrFeNiMn coatings were investigated. After heat treatment, a single FCC phase was remained in the coating as compared to the deposited one, with smaller dendrites, larger dendritic spacing and more Cr-rich compounds precipitated between dendrites. The coatings’ microhardness was increased after heat treatment. After heat treated at 660°C for 90 minutes, the coating had the highest microhardness of 563±6.9 HV0.2, the lowest frictional coefficient of 0.71 and the smallest wear mass loss of 1.12 mg, and it had the best wear resistance.

This study investigated the impact of boron and copper on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Spheroidal graphite Cast Iron (SCI). The addition of boron increased the ferrite content, while copper increased the stability of pearlite. The interaction between boron and copper significantly increased the ferrite content. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) revealed that boron decreased the enthalpy change of the α + Fe3C -> γ transformation and increased the enthalpy change of the α -> γ transformation. The addition of boron and copper reduced the tensile and yield strength but increased elongation and impact energy. The findings provide valuable insights into the effect of boron and copper on SCI, facilitating the design and development of high-performance SCI materials.

Detailed evaluation is provided for the likelihood statistics intrinsic to interlocking Sequential Bayes analysis, which allows estimation of evidential support for dendrograms charting the macroevolution of taxa. It involves complexity functions, such as fractal evolution, to generate well-supported evolutionary trees. Required are data on trait changes from ancestral species to descendant species, which is facilitated by reduction of large genera to monothetic groups (one ancestral species each), most conveniently named as separate genera. Assigning each species one Shannon informational bit per new trait, then adding the traits as sequential Bayesian analysis (each posterior probability used as the prior for the next iteration of Bayes Formula), then interpretation with an odds chart, provides a posterior probability that the ancestor-descendant order is correct, that is, entirely follows evolutionary theory involving adaptation and rarity of total trait reversals. The key fact is that the most recently acquired traits of the ancestral species are selectively inviolate and passed on without change to each descendant species. The details of sequential Bayesian analysis were clarified by calculation of likelihood ratios and Bayes factors that compare optimal models with the next most likely model. Such analysis demonstrated that the optimum arrangement of ancestor and descendant species leads to high support values for fitting evolutionary theory, comparable to statistical support levels reported for molecular evolutionary trees. The fact that phylogenetic analysis does not offer an ancestor-descendant model in is found to be conducive of precision at the expense of accuracy, and leads to wrong ancestor-free models with likelihoods explaining data at high credible levels. The number of advanced traits in the outgroup as a Bayesian prior greatly enhances posterior probability. The method is simple, free of special computer analysis, and well-suited to standard taxonomic practice.

It is important to realize the transformation behavior of wüstite because it greatly affects the final structure of the oxide layer and the surface quality of the steel products. In the present study, the transformation behaviors of the wüstite layer are examined under nearly-oxygen-free conditions, to simulate the cooling processes after the hot rolled strip is coiled. As the single phase wüstite was prepared at 950˚C, the 460˚C transformed oxide layer was composed of a mixture of iron and magnetite formed through eutectoid reactions. For the 750˚C-fabricated wüstite, only magnetite was observed after transformation, without iron precipitates and residual wüstite. It is speculated that the unusual transformation behavior of the low-temperature-made wüstite results from the pseudo-structural intermediate phase transformation between wüstite and magnetite. This pseudo-structure is a pre-transformed wüstite and of various concentration of ferrous ion, which is determined by the fabrication conditions. During the hot strip mill process, the so-called wet scale, wüstite, is produced continuously from finish mill to laminar flow sections and ended at 570˚C. Consequently, the final eutectoid transformation below 570˚C is dominantly controlled by the surface temperature ranged from 750˚C to 950˚C for low carbon steel.

In the field of metallurgy, there are many factors that influence the final quality of cast iron. These are mainly charge materials, chemical composition, metallurgical preparation up to the final casting process. Even small deviations from metallurgical processing lead to fluctuations in melt quality and the occurrence of casting defects. Charge materials has a significant impact on the quality of cast iron, especially steel scrap, which is increasingly used from an economic and ecological point of view, especially when melting cast iron in electric furnaces. Cast iron produced from a higher proportion of steel scrap in the charge has higher hardness and tensile strength. On the other side, these cast irons has a higher tendency to chillout, brittleness, shrinkage, pearlitic microstructure, stresses and higher purity due to the difference in hardness at different wall thicknesses of the castings. It is the high hardness that is the problem in the final machining of castings. These negative properties are recorded mainly in heavy thick-walled castings with higher tensile strength and hardness. This negative effect is mainly due to the nitrogen content in the steel scrap. Based on these knowledges, operating melts were realized in the foundry's operating conditions. The influence of steel scrap in the charge and the possibility of eliminating its negative effects on the properties of cast iron were investigated.

The influence of the austempering temperatures on the microstructure and mechanical properties of austempered ductile cast iron (ADI) was investigated. ADI is nodular graphite cast iron, which owing to higher strength and elongation exceeds mechanical properties of conventional spheroidal graphite cast iron. Such a combination of properties is achieved by the heat treatment through austenitization, followed by austempering at different temperatures. The austenitization conditions were the same for all the samples: temperature 890°C, duration 30min, and quenching in a salt bath. The main focus of this research was on the influence of the austempering temperatures (270°C, 300°C, and 330 C) on the microstructure evolution, elongation, toughness and fatigue resistance of ADI modified by certain amount of Ni, Cu, and Mo. The Vickers and Rockwell hardness decreased from 535.7 to 405.3HV/1 (55.7 to 44.5HRC) as the austempering temperature increased. Optical images showed the formation of graphite nodules and matrix composed of ausferrite; the presence of these phases was confirmed by an XRD diffraction pattern. A fracture surface analysis revealed several types of the mechanisms: cleavage ductile, transgranular and ductile dimple fracture. The stress-controlled mechanical fatigue experiments revealed that a 330°C austempering temperature ensures the highest fatigue life of ADI.

Considering the manufacturing of automotive components, there exists a dilemma around the substitution of traditional Cast Iron (CI) with lighter metals. Nowadays, aluminium alloys, being lighter compared to traditional materials, are considered as a more environmentally friendly solution. However, the energy required for the extraction of the primary materials and manufacturing of components is usually not taken into account in this debate. In this study, an extensive literature review has been performed to estimate the overall energy required for the manufacturing of an engine cylinder block using (a) cast iron and (b) aluminium alloys. Moreover, data from over 100 automotive companies, ranging from mining companies to consultancy firms, have been collected in order to support the soundness of this investigation. The environmental impact of the manufacturing of engine blocks made of these materials is presented with respect to the energy burden; the “cradle-to-grave approach” has been implemented to take into account the energy input of each stage of the component lifecycle starting from the resource extraction and reaching to the end-of-life processing stage. Our results indicate that although aluminium components contribute towards reduced fuel consumption during their use phase, the vehicle distance needed to be covered in order to compensate for the up-front energy consumption related to the primary material production and manufacturing phases is very high. Thus, the substitution of traditional materials with lightweight ones in the automotive industry should be very thoughtfully evaluated.

The sensitivity of macroscopic mechanical and thermal properties of grey cast iron is computationally investigated for a variety of graphite microstructures over a wide temperature range. In order to represent common graphite microstructures according to DIN EN ISO 945-1, a synthetic approach is used to algorithmically generate simulation domains. The developed mechanical and thermal model is applied in a large simulation study. The study includes statistical volume elements of the graphite microstructures classes GG-15 and IA2 to IA5, with 10 v.-%, 11 v.-% and 12 v.-% graphite, respectively, for a temperature range from 20 °C to 750 °C. Homogenized macroscopic quantities such as the Young's moduli, Poisson's ratios, yield strengths and thermal conductivities are predicted for the different microstructure classes by applying simulation and data analysis tools of the research data infrastructure Kadi4Mat.

Pancreatic cancer (PC) has a poor prognosis and displays resistance to immunotherapy. A better understanding of tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) effects on immune responses might contribute to improved immunotherapy. EVs derived from Capan-2 and BxPC-3 PC cells isolated by ultracentrifugation were characterized by atomic force microscopy, western blot (WB), nanoparticle tracking analysis and label-free proteomics. Fresh PBMCs from healthy donors were treated with PC- or control-derived heterologous EVs followed by flow cytometry analysis of CD8+ and CD4+ lymphocytes. Proteomics of lymphocytes sorted from EV-treated, or -untreated PBMCs was performed and IFN-γ concentration was measured by ELISA. Notably, most of the proteins identified in Capan-2 and BxPC-3 EVs by proteomic analysis were connected in a single functional network (p=1x10-16) and were involved in “Immune System” (FDR: 1.10x10-24 and 3.69x10-19, respectively). Interestingly, treatment of healthy donor-derived PBMCs with Capan-2 EVs, but not with BxPC-3 EVs or heterologous control EVs induced early activation of CD8+ and CD4+ lymphocytes. Proteomics of lymphocytes sorted from EV-treated PBMCs was consistent with their activation by Capan-2 EVs, indicating IFN-γ among major upstream regulators, as confirmed by ELISA. Proteomic and functional analyses indicate that PC-EVs have pleiotropic effects, and some may activate early immune response, which might be relevant for the development of highly needed immunotherapeutic strategies in this immune-cold tumor.

Gray cast iron is one of the most important engineering materials that has many applications in various industries including automotive and machinery manufacturing due to its mechanical properties, wear resistance, machining potentials and low price. In this research effect of adding aluminum and silicon to composition of gray cast iron on microstructure and wear resistance was studied. Moreover, it was investigated the role of formation of Fe-Al-Si intermetallic compound in final properties of the alloy. For studying wear resistance of samples pin-on-disc method was carried out. The results showed that addition of aluminum to gray cast iron causes formation of ferrite matrix, which leads to a decrease in hardness value. Increasing silicon content up to 2 wt. % in cast iron with 4 wt. % aluminum intensifies the formation of ferrite matrix, while further increase to 3 wt. % causes emerging a Fe-Al-Si intermetallic phase. Improvement in hardness value was achieved by increasing silicon content from 3 wt. % to 4 wt. % due to the increased percentage of intermetallic phase. Effect of intermetallic phase on decreasing wear rate was showed by studying microstructure and hardness values, however the lowest wear resistance was observed in aluminum bearing cast iron containing 2 wt. % silicon.

Gray cast iron is one of the most important engineering materials that has many applications in various industries including automotive and machinery manufacturing due to its mechanical properties, wear resistance, machining potentials and low price. In this research effect of adding aluminum and silicon to composition of gray cast iron on microstructure and wear resistance was studied. Moreover, it was investigated the role of formation of Fe-Al-Si intermetallic compound in final properties of the alloy. For studying wear resistance of samples pin-on-disc method was carried out. The results showed that addition of aluminum to gray cast iron causes formation of ferrite matrix, which leads to a decrease in hardness value. Increasing silicon content up to 2 wt. % in cast iron with 4 wt. % aluminum intensifies the formation of ferrite matrix, while further increase to 3 wt. % causes emerging a Fe-Al-Si intermetallic phase. Improvement in hardness value was achieved by increasing silicon content from 3 wt. % to 4 wt. % due to the increased percentage of intermetallic phase. Effect of intermetallic phase on decreasing wear rate was showed by studying microstructure and hardness values, however the lowest wear resistance was observed in aluminum bearing cast iron containing 2 wt. % silicon.

Graphite nanoplatelets (GNPs) were produced from flake graphite that had been immersed in isopropyl alcohol solution (70%) and converted to powder form in an ultrasonic bath (5 h, room temperature). Scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, and Raman spectroscopy identified 120-nm-thick GNP crystallites and 0.5–21 µm plates with different areas and shapes. Extensive exfoliation was observed by transmission electron microscopy with abundant multilayer and some monolayer GNPs. X-ray diffractometry confirmed 43 GNP layers along the c-axis. Raman spectroscopy indicated well-defined GNPs with few defects and no oxide content. Rietveld analysis indicated a GNP crystal lattice with stacks of parallel two-dimensional graphene layers and tightly bound hybridized carbon atoms stacked in a translational …ABAB… sequence in hexagonal rings.

The effects of rare earth Ce on the microstructure and properties of cast pure copper were investigated through thermodynamic calculations, XRD analysis, mechanical testing, metallographic microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The experimental results demonstrate that the reaction between rare earth Ce and oxygen as well as sulfur in copper exhibits a significantly negative Gibbs free energy value, indicating a strong thermodynamic driving force for deoxidation and desulfurization reactions. Ce is capable of removing trace amounts of O and S from copper. Moreover, the maximum solid solubility of Ce in Cu falls within the range of 0.009% to 0.01%. Furthermore, Ce can refine columnar grains while enlarging equiaxed grains in as-cast copper.Upon addition of rare earth Ce, the tensile strength increased by 8.45%, elongation increased by 12.1%, and microhardness rose from 73.5HV to 81.2HV-an increase of 10.5%. Overall, rare earth Ce has been found to enhance both the microstructure and mechanical properties of cast pure copper.

Demolished concrete and plastic waste are two increasingly aggravating problems. In this study, a novel method was proposed to simultaneously recycle concrete and plastic wastes by compacting concrete and plastic powders together under pressure and temperature. The influence of compression pressure and temperature as well as the mixture proportion on the bending strength of specimens was investigated. The results showed that pressure and temperature had a positive effect on the specimen strength; however, the molding temperature should not exceed the melting temperature of plastic. The proportion of plastic had a minimal effect on the bending strength of the specimen when plastic accounted for 25%–75% of the overall mass of the test piece.

Pretreatment of cells with proteolysis inhibitors diminished intensity and changed shape of DNICs specific EPR signal in a treatment time-dependent manner. The level of DNIC formation was significantly influenced by the presence of protein degradation products. Interestingly, formation of HMWDNICs depended on the availability of LMWDNICs. The extent of glutathione involvement in the in vivo formation of DNICs is minor yet noticeable, aligning with our prior research findings.

Porous graphite was prepared without the use of template by rapidly heating the carbonization products from mixtures of anthracene, flourene, and pyrene with a CO₂ laser. Rapid CO₂ laser heating at a rate of 1.8 × 10 ⁶ °C/s vaporizes out the fluorene-pyrene derived pitch while annealing the anthracene coke. The resulting structure is that of graphite with 100 nm spherical pores. The graphitizablity of the porous material is the same as pure anthracene coke. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the interface between graphitic layers and the pore walls are unimpeded. Traditional furnace annealing does not result in the porous structure as the heating rates are too slow to vaporize out the pitch, thereby illustrating the advantage of fast thermal processing. The resultant porous graphite was prelithiated and used as an anode in lithium ion capacitors. The porous graphite when lithiated had a specific capacity of 200 mAh/g at 100 mA/g. The assembled lithium ion capacitor demonstrated an energy density as high as 75 Wh/kg when cycled between 2.2 V to 4.2 V.

For the last two decades, an increasing demand for low-cost adsorbents for drinking water treatment has been challenged in the rural areas of developing countries that have problems with arsenic (As) contamination. In this work, spent bleaching earth (SBE), a residual material that is formed during the process of refining vegetable oil, has been utilized to prepare the new magnetic adsorbent Fe-SBE/C by modifying its surface area through calcination and co-precipitation with iron. The experimental results demonstrate that Fe-SBE/C exhibits a substantial adsorption capacity towards both arsenite (As(III)) and arsenate (As(V)). Optimal pH conditions were found to be pH 10 for As(III) and pH 3 for As(V), resulting in adsorption percentages of 76.7% and 94.1%, respectively. Other experimental parameters such as calcination conditions, adsorbent dosage, iron-loading ratio, and the presence of co-existing ions were thoroughly investigated. The kinetic study revealed that the adsorption processes follow the Elovich and intraparticle diffusion models, suggesting a combined adsorption mechanism of boundary layer control and chemisorption. Furthermore, the isotherm followed the Langmuir model with a maximum adsorption capacity of 202.61 μg g-1 for As(III) and 187.61 μg g-1 for As(V). Through thermodynamic analysis and reinforcement by activation energy data, this research validates that the observed adsorption process is indicative through chemisorption. The regeneration study revealed the potential for multiple cycles of arsenic removal, highlighting the practical applicability of Fe-SBE/C in environmental contexts. In conclusion, the findings of this study underscore the efficacy of Fe-SBE/C in arsenic removal and present it as a promising and environmentally friendly solution for mitigating arsenic pollution.

Recently published structural analysis and galvanomagnetic studies of a large number of different bulk and mesoscopic graphite samples of high quality and purity reveal that the common picture assuming graphite samples as a semimetal with a homogeneous carrier density of conduction electrons is misleading. These new studies indicate that the main electrical conduction path occurs within 2D interfaces embedded in semiconducting Bernal and/or rhombohedral stacking regions. This new knowledge incites us to revise experimentally and theoretically the diamagnetism of graphite samples. We found that the $c$-axis susceptibility of highly pure oriented graphite samples is not really constant but can vary several tens of percent for bulk samples with thickness $t \gtrsim 30~\mu$m, whereas by a much larger factor for samples with smaller thickness. The observed decrease of the susceptibility with sample thickness resembles qualitatively the one reported for the electrical conductivity and indicates that the main part of the $c-$axis diamagnetic signal is not intrinsic of the ideal graphite structure but it is due to the highly conducting 2D interfaces. The interpretation of the main diamagnetic signal of graphite agrees with the reported description of its galvanomagnetic properties and provides a hint to understand some magnetic peculiarities of thin graphite samples.

Iron is an essential nutrient and necessary for biological functions from DNA replication and repair to transcriptional regulation, mitochondrial respiration, electron transfer, oxygen transport, photosynthesis, enzymatic catalysis, and nitrogen fixation. However, due to iron’s propensity to generate toxic radicals which can cause damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids, multiple processes regulate uptake and distribution of iron in living systems. Understanding how intracellular iron metabolism is optimized and how iron is utilized to regulate other intracellular processes is important to our overall understanding of a multitude of biological processes. One of the tools that the cell utilizes to regulate a multitude of functions is ligation of the iron-sulfur (Fe-S) cluster cofactor. Fe-S clusters comprised of iron and inorganic sulfur are ancient components of living matter on earth that are integral for physiological function in all domains of life. Here we will explore the ways in which the cell utilizes Fe-S clusters to sense the intracellular environment and respond to maintain equilibrium.

The carbonyl iron particles were dispersed in a polychloroprene rubber (CR) matrix under an external magnetic field for practical application as microwave absorption composites film. The film prepared under external magnetic field with a thickness of only 0.54 mm showed least reflection loss of -15.98 dB and the reflection loss value less than -10.0 dB over the frequency range of 11.4~14.8 GHz. In comparison with the microwave absorption properties of calculation by transmission line theory based on the tested relative complex permittivity and permeability and film prepared by general route without external magnetic field, the film made with external magnetic field exhibited more excellent microwave absorption properties, strongly depending on the increment of anisotropy and rearrangement of magnetic particles. The results indicated the composite film made under external magnetic field have excellent microwave absorption properties, which suggest that the composites thin film could be used as a thinner and lighter microwave absorber.

This paper assesses the performance of an embankment constructed in 2010 with a stabilised expansive soil. Two types of treatment were employed at construction time: 4% lime and a mix of 2% lime and 3% cement. A sampling campaign was carried out in 2021 to evaluate the long-term performance of the stabilised soil properties. To assess the compressibility of the soil, oedometer tests were carried out on samples from different parts of the embankment. The results were compared to the compression curve of the untreated soil, also sampled in the same embankment. Complementary shrinkage tests were performed to investigate the effect of the treatment on swelling and shrinkage. The obtained results showed that the behaviour of the material from the outer part was similar to the mechanical performance of the untreated soil, demonstrating strong alteration in the effect of both treatments over time. This alteration was noticeable to a distance of approximately two metres from the external surface. Beyond this distance, the performance of the soil was comparable to the behaviour of recently treated soil. These observations, similar for each treatment dosage, raise questions as to the durability of the treatment on the outer part of the backfill.

In the field of pavement engineering, the determination of the mechanical characteristics is one of the essential process for reliable material design and highway sustainability. Early determination of mechanical characteristics of pavement is highly essential for road and highway construction and maintenance. Tensile strength (TS), compressive strength (CS) and flexural strength (FS) of roller compacted concrete pavement (RCCP) are very crucial characteristics as they are necessitated for many data from mixture proportions as input variables. In this research, the classification-based regression models named Random Forest (RF), M5rule model tree (M5rule), M5prime model tree (M5p) and Chi-square Automatic Interaction Detection (CHAID) are developed for simulation of the mechanical characteristics of RCCP. A comprehensive and reliable dataset comprising 621, 326 and 290 data records for CS, TS and FS experimental cases extracted from several open sources over the literature. The mechanical properties are developed based on influential inputs combination that processed using Principle Component Analysis (PCA). The applied PCA method as feature selection is specified that volumetric/weighted content forms of experimental variables (e.g., coarse aggregate, fine aggregate, supplementary cementitious materials, water and binder) and specimens’ age are the most effective inputs to generate the better performances. Several statistical metrics are measured to evaluate proposed classification-based regression models. RF model revealed an optimistic classification capacity of the CS, TS and FS prediction of the RCCP in comparison with the CHAID, M5rule, and M5p models. The research is extended for the results verification using Monte-carlo model for the uncertainty and sensitivity of variables importance analysis. Overall, the proposed methodology indicated a reliable soft computing model that can be implemented for the material engineering construction and design.

The study investigates the evolution of soil pore structure and shear strength deterioration in compacted clayey soil under controlled wetting and drying (wd) cycles, which are expected to become more frequent due to climate change. Thirty soil samples were compacted at optimal moisture content and 90% of maximum dry density. These samples were then subjected to 0, 1, 5, 10, and 15 controlled wd cycles from saturation to the wilting point, and volumetric changes were recorded during each cycle. After the wd treatment, the soil samples were scanned using X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) at 50 μm resolution and then sheared under unconsolidated-undrained and consolidated-undrained conditions in a triaxial test. Significant shrinkage and swelling of soil samples were observed during wd cycles, with average volumetric strain fluctuating between +12% at saturation and -5% at the wilting point. X-ray CT visualisation and analysis revealed higher porosity, more prominent pores and increased pore length in soil samples with increasing wd cycles. Both undrained and effective soil shear strength markedly decreased with increasing wd cycles. CT-derived macroporosity and pore length were significant predictors of the soil's undrained and effective shear strength when exposed to wd cycles. The findings emphasise the considerable impact of climate change, specifically wd cycles, on clayey soil, highlighting the need for consideration in the design of earth-based infrastructure.

The paper provides a discussion on the results of studies of the effect exerted by combined degradation factors typical of four types of wear: abrasion, impact-abrasion, tribocorrosion, and impact-abrasion-corrosion, conducted for chain wheels made of Ni-Cu alloyed Austempered Ductile Iron. The studies consisted in determining the content of retained austenite in the structure of the cast irons in question, establishing the measures of wear following wear testing, and identifying basic surface degradation mechanisms observed in the chain wheels tested following multifactorial wear processes. The chain wheels made of ADI were found to have sustained the greatest damage under the impact-abrasion-corrosion (three-factor) wear scenario, while the wear was least advanced in the abrasion (one-factor) wear case. Another observation derived from the studies is that the combined effect of dynamic forces, corrosion, and quartz sand-based abrasives causes increased surface degradation in the cast iron grades taken into consideration compared to processes characterised by a reduced number of degradation factors (i.e. one- or two-factor wear processes). Additional hardness tests and XRD analyses have revealed a distinctive effect attributable to combined degradation factors on the surface hardness increase value and implied that bench testing was followed by phase transition.

Several observations have shown that patients with polycythemia have iron deficiency. Our objectives were to report the prevalence of iron deficiency, to evaluate the diagnostic performance of serum ferritin in polycythemia vera and to describe the mechanisms of this association. This is a retrospective descriptive and analytical study carried out in the internal medicine department of the Henri Mondor Hospital, Aurillac, France. The study involved 114 patients with polycythemia, followed in the department from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2021. To evaluate the diagnostic performance, the JAK2 mutation was considered as the gold standard of diagnosis. Thirty-three patients had polycythemia vera and 76 patients had secondary polycythemia. The mean age of the patients was 61.79 years (±15.44) with a sex ratio of 4.43. The overall prevalence of iron deficiency was 21.05%. The prevalence was 53% in polycythemia vera group and 1.32% in secondary polycythemia group. The risk of iron deficiency was high in polycythemia vera (OR=115; 95% CI [14.4-918.2], p<0.000). The sensitivity and specificity of serum ferritin were 52.63% and 100% respectively. Assessment of iron deficiency should be part of the initial evaluation of polycythemia. The presence of iron deficiency is specific for polycythemia vera.

Graphene oxide was synthesized by a one-step environmentally friendly mechanochemistry process directly from graphite and characterized by Raman, FT-IR and UV/vis spectroscopies, Atomic Force Microscopy, X-ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy and Thermogravimetric Analysis. Spectroscopic analysis shows that the functional groups and oxygen content of the synthesized material are comparable with those of graphene oxide synthesized by other previously reported methods (Hummers). Thermogravimetric analysis reveals thermal stability up to 400 °C.

One consequence of the global technological advancement in conventional metallurgy is the fast depletion rate of valuable minerals, which are also becoming increasingly difficult to find in pure and economically viable forms. This has spurred more interest in technologies that investigate ability of different microorganisms to mobilize valuable metals from their ores via diverse metabolic processes. This study was carried out therefore to isolate, identify and characterize iron solubilizing bacteria from Iron stones of Agbaja iron ore mining site of Kogi State, Nigeria. Crushed samples in the range of 0.25µm and 0.75µm particle sizes were cultured in a modified 9k media to facilitate bacterial growth and pure cultures were then isolated and sub-cultured for further bioleaching studies. Morphological and biochemical analysis suggests that some of the bacteria identified are members of Acidithiobacillus spp, Pseudomonas spp, and Leptospirillum spp. Studies conducted on pure cultures and mixed consortium of the identified organisms shows that a mixture of the three organisms leached iron ore to about 96.16%. Also results of growth pattern due to bacteria countafter 24-72hours of incubation ranged between 0.1×10³ cfu/ml and 12.3 ×10³ cfu/ml for Acidithiobacillus spp. The need to explore the molecular characteristics of these organisms with a view to generating more information on the quality/quantity of their DNA for future cloning activities was also investigated in this work. DNA was extracted using zymo fungal/bacterial extraction mini prep kit ^TM (cat #6001) and subsequently subjected to 1% agarose gel electrophoresis. Visible bands were obtained with Alpha Innotech Gel Documentation Machine. DNA amplification was carried out using a pettier based thermo cycler PCR machine and electrophoresed on 1.5% agarose gel. Results of the PCR shows a visible band corresponding to 1.5kbp using this primer 27F (5¹-GAGTTTGATCCTGGCTCAG-3¹) and 1492R (5^1-GGTTACCTTGTTACGACT-3¹). DNA purity check shows two of the bacteria possess very good qualities for sequencing for further molecular analysis.

Combining modern thermodynamics theory branches, including finite time thermodynamics or entropy generation minimization, constructal theory and entransy theory, with metallurgical process engineering, this paper provides a new exploration on generalized thermodynamic optimization theory for iron and steel production processes. The theoretical core is to thermodynamically optimize performances of elemental packages, working procedure modules, functional subsystems, and whole process of iron and steel production processes with real finite-resource and/or finite-size constraints with various irreversibilities toward saving energy, decreasing consumption, reducing emission and increasing yield, and to achieve the comprehensive coordination among the material flow, energy flow and environment of the hierarchical process systems. A series of application cases of the theory are reviewed. It can provide a new angle of view for the iron and steel production processes from thermodynamics, and can also provide some guidelines for other process industries.

Here we propose the concept of an electro–microbial route to uncouple food production from photosynthesis, thereby enabling production of nutritious food in space without the need to grow plant-based crops. In the proposed process, carbon dioxide is fixed into ethanol using either chemical catalysis or microbial carbon fixation, and the ethanol created is used as a carbon source for yeast to synthesize food for human or animal consumption. The process depends upon technologies that can utilize electrical energy to fix carbon into ethanol and uses an optimized strain of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to produce high quality, food grade single cell protein using only ethanol, urea, phosphate, and inorganic salts as inputs. Unlike crops using photosynthesis that require months to mature and are challenging to grow under the conditions found in space, the electro–microbial process could generate significant quantities of food on demand with potentially high yields and productivities. In this paper we explore the potential of the proposed process to provide food on demand in space, but it should be noted that this novel approach to food production has many valuable terrestrial applications too. For example, enabling food production in climatically challenged environments including turning deserts into food bowls, or utilizing surplus electricity generated from large-scale renewable power sources.

Heating films were prepared by using poly(methyl methacrylate) and polybutadiene composites containing graphite. The heating film was prepared by casting the as-made polymer composite on PET film. Copper electrodes were attached to both ends of the as-prepared film, and the heating characteristics of the film was analyzed while applying DC voltage. The electrical conductivity and the heating temperature of the heating films depended on the size, the structure, the content and the dispersion characteristics of the graphite in the composite. The electrical resistance of the heating film was controlled to adjust the heating temperature of the film. The relationship between the physical/chemical structure and the heating characteristics of the composite film was studied by measuring the heating temperature as functions of film thickness and resistance by using an infrared thermal imaging camera. The lower the film resistance, the higher the heating temperature of the film. The surface temperature was uniform throughout the film.

Graph theory plays a crucial role in modeling and designing of chemical structure or chemical network. Chemical Graph theory helps to understand the molecular structure of molecular graph. The molecular graph consists of atoms as vertices and bonds as edges. Topological indices capture symmetry of molecular structures and give it a mathematical language to predict properties such as boiling points, viscosity, the radius of gyrations etc. In this article, we study the chemical graph of carbon Crystal structure of graphite and cubic carbon and compute several degree-based topological indices. Firstly we compute M-Polynomials of these structures and then from these M-polynomials we recover nine degree-based topological indices.

Cycling reliability is crucial for Si-based materials due to severe volume change during cycles that results in the fast capacity fading. Though the binder only occupies a very low amount of the total mass of anodes, it is proved to perform a key parameter to improve the cycle performance of Si-based anodes. Because they are eco-friendly and cost saving, water-based binders styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) are regarded as the better binder to substitute Poly (vinylidene difluoride) (PVDF) as the binder for Si-based anode. In this study, the anodes are fabricated by simply mixing the active materials (naso Si, graphite and conductive additive) together and using the mixture of SBR and CMC as a binder. The results showed that the retention capacities of the anodes are more than 440 mAh/g after 400 cycles. It indicates that it is an easy and simple way to make high performance anodes.

Iron and zinc are essential micronutrients required for growth and health. Deficiencies of these nutrients are highly prevalent among populations, but can be alleviated by supplementation. Cross-sectional studies in humans showed positive association of serum zinc levels with hemoglobin and markers of iron status. Dietary restriction of zinc or intestinal specific conditional knock out of ZIP4 (SLC39A4), an intestinal zinc transporter, in experimental animals demonstrated iron deficiency anemia and tissue iron accumulation. Similarly increased iron accumulation has been observed in cultured cells exposed to zinc deficient media. These results together suggest a potential role of zinc in modulating whole body iron metabolism. Studies in intestinal cell culture models demonstrate that zinc induces iron uptake and transcellular transport via induction of divalent metal iron transporter-1 (DMT1) and ferroportin (FPN) expression, respectively. It is interesting to note that intestinal cells are exposed to very high levels of zinc through pancreatic secretions, which is a major route of zinc excretion from the body. Therefore, zinc appears to be modulating the iron metabolism possibly via regulating the DMT1 and FPN1 levels. Herein we critically reviewed the available evidence to hypothesize novel mechanism of Zinc-DMT1/FPN axis in regulating intestinal iron absorption and tissue iron accumulation to facilitate future research aimed at understanding the yet elusive mechanisms of iron and zinc interactions.

The present study conducts the phase analysis, microstructural characteristics, and mechanical property evaluation on the as-cast and quenched Ti-15Mo-xFe alloys with high iron content ranging from 4 to 12 weight percent. All the four alloys were produced in a button-arc melting furnace. Heat treatment in the form of solution treatment was performed in a muffle furnace at a temperature of 1100°C, with a 1-hour holding time. The samples were rapidly quenched in ice-brine. Various characterization techniques were used to analyze samples both in the as cast and quenched conditions. X-ray diffractometer (XRD) was used to analyses the phases present in each alloy whereas the optical microscope (OM) was employed to track the microstructural evolution. The mechanical properties of the alloys were evaluated using a tensile test method while the micro-Vickers hardness measurements were conducted to evaluate hardness of the alloys. OM micrographs revealed equiaxed β grains and substructures in as-cast TMF0, dendritic structure, and equiaxed β grains with pores forming around the grain boundaries in TMF1, and micrograph full of dendrites and pores was observed in the as-cast TMF2 and TMF3 alloys. The quenched TMF0 showed only β equiaxed grains whereas TMF1, TMF2, and TMF3 revealed micrographs full of equiaxed grains of β phase with pores throughout the grain boundaries. The XRD patterns of cast TMF0 showed peaks belonging to the β and orthorhombic α″ martensitic phases and the quenched sample showed the bcc β phase only. The TMF1, TMF2, and TMF3 alloys in as-cast condition indicated peaks belonging to β , α″ and intermetallic B2 TiFe phases, however, their quenched samples showed the presence of β and Fe·Ti·O2 phases in TMF2 and TMF3 alloys. The tensile properties such as ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and elastic modulus (E) of as-cast TMF0 were 264 MPa and 79 GPa and these properties changed upon quenching to 411 MPa and 66 GPa respectively. The elastic modulus of TMF1 in as-cast condition was 74 GPa. The UTS and E of TMF1, TMF2, and TMF3 in as cast and quenched conditions were not recorded due to the fragility of the samples that failed prior to yielding any useful data. The micro-Vickers hardness in as cast and quenched conditions showed a similar trend with hardness increasing slightly upon quenching for TMF0, TMF1, and TMF3 alloys but slightly decreased in the case of TMF2. 6). The fracture surfaces of TMF0 exhibited both ductile and brittle fracture in as cast and quenched conditions whereas the only brittle fracture mode was observed in the TMF1, TMF2 and TMF3 alloys in both conditions.

Steel is one of the essential materials in the world's civilization. It is essential to produce many products such as pipelines, mechanical elements in machines, vehicles, profiles, and beam sections for buildings in many industries. Until the '50s of the 20th century, steel products required a complex process known as ingot casting; for years, steelmakers focused on developing and simplifying this process. The result was the con-tinuous casting process (CCP); it is the most productive method to produce steel. The CCP allows producing significant volumes of steel sections without interruption and is more productive than the formal ingot casting process. The CCP begins by transferring the liquid steel from the steel-ladle to a tundish. This tundish or vessel distributes the liquid steel, by flowing through its volume, to one or more strands having wa-ter-cooled copper molds. The mold is the primary cooling system, PCS, solidifying a steel shell to withstand a liquid core and its friction forces with the mold wall. Further down the mold, the rolls drive the steel section in the SCS. Here the steel section is cooled, solidifying the remaining liquid core, by sprays placed in every cooling segment all around the billet and along the curved section of the machine. Finally, the steel strand goes towards a horizontal-straight free-spray zone, losing heat by radiation mechanism, where the billet cools down further to total solidification. A moving torch cutting-scissor splits the billet to the desired length at the end of this heat-radiant zone.

In this paper, we use a new asymptotically flat and spherically symmetric solution in the generalized Einstein-Cartan-Kibble-Sciama (ECKS) theory of gravity to study the weak gravitational lensing and its shadow cast. To this end, we first compute the weak deflection angle of generalized ECKS black hole using the Gauss–Bonnet theorem in plasma medium and in vacuum. Next by using the Newman-Janis algorithm without complexification, we derive the rotating generalized ECKS black hole and in the sequel study its shadow. Then, we discuss the effect of the ECKS parameter on the shadow of the black hole and weak deflection angle. In short, the goal of this paper is to give contribution to the ECKS theory and look for evidences to understand how the ECKS parameter effects the gravitational lensing.

The theory of heterogeneous nucleation was initially developed as a part of condensed matter physics and later it was used as an important engineering tool to design metallurgical processes. The success leads to wide applications of the theory in metallurgical practice. For example, engineering heterogeneous nucleation in ductile iron has been used to reduce shrinkage defects, suppress cementite formation, and modify size and shape of micro-structural constituencies. This demonstrates how theoretical knowledge could benefit industry practice. This overview aims to summarize the authors’ published studies in co-authorship with colleagues and students, which covered different aspects of engineering heterogeneous nucleation in multiphase cast alloys. Several approaches for engineering heterogeneous nucleation using thermodynamic simulation and practical methods for improving efficiency of nucleation using co-precipitation technique and a local transient melt supersaturation were suggested. Automated Scanning Electron Microscopy Energy-Dispersive-X-ray (SEM/EDX) analysis and a high-resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were used to verify simulation predictions. Practical examples of controlling micro-porosity shrinkage in cast irons with spheroidal graphite are presented to illustrate the power of engineering heterogenous nucleation. The authors appreciate the great efforts that the co-authors have made on the original, overviewed articles here.

Sideroflexins (SLC56 family) are highly conserved multi-spanning transmembrane proteins inserted in the inner mitochondrial membrane in eukaryotes. Few data are available on their molecular function but, since their first description, they were thought to be metabolite transporters probably required for iron utilization inside the mitochondrion. Such as numerous mitochondrial transporters, sideroflexins remain poorly characterized. The prototypic member SFXN1 has been recently identified as the previously unknown mitochondrial transporter of serine. Nevertheless, pending questions on the molecular function of sideroflexins remain unsolved, especially their link with iron metabolism. Here, we review the current knowledge on sideroflexins, their presumed mitochondrial functions and the sparse - but growing - evidence linking sideroflexins to iron homeostasis and iron-sulfur cluster biogenesis. Since an imbalance in iron homeostasis can be detrimental at the cellular and organismal levels, we also investigate the relationship between sideroflexins, iron and physiological disorders. Investigating Sideroflexins’ functions constitutes an emerging research field of great interest and will certainly lead to main discoveries on mitochondrial physiopathology.

Carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs) are being used extensively in modern industries that require high strength-to-weight ratio such as aerospace, automotive, motorsport, and sports equipment. However, although reinforcement with carbon fibers improves the mechanical properties of polymer, this comes on the expense of abrasive wear resistance. Therefore, to efficiently utilize CFRPs in dry sliding contacts, solid lubricant is used as a filler. Further, to facilitate fabrication of objects with complex geometries, selective laser sintering (SLS) can be employed. Accordingly, in the present work, graphite-filled carbon fiber-reinforced polyamide 12 (CFR-PA12) specimens were prepared using SLS process to explore the dry sliding friction and wear characteristics of the composite. The test specimens were aligned along four different orientations in the build chamber of SLS machine to determine the orientation-dependent tribological properties. The experiments were conducted using pin-on-disc tribometer to measure the coefficient of friction (COF), interface temperature, friction-induced noise, and specific wear rate. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of tribo-surfaces was conducted to specify the dominant wear pattern. The results indicated that the steady state COF, contact temperature, and wear pattern of graphite-filled CFR-PA12 are orientation-independent, and that the contact temperature is likely to approach an asymptote far below the glass transition temperature of amorphous PA12 zones, thus eliminating the possibility of matrix softening. Additionally, the results showed that the Z-oriented specimen exhibits the lowest level of friction-induced noise along with the highest wear resistance. Moreover, SEM of tribo-surfaces determined that abrasive wear is the dominant wear pattern.

The use of interleaving material with viscoelastic properties is one of the most effective solutions to improve the damping capacity of CFRP laminates. Improving composite damping without threatening mechanical performance is challenging and the use of nanomaterials should lead to the target. In this paper, the effect of a nanostructured interlayer based on Graphite Nanoplatelets (GNPs) on the damping capacity and fracture toughness of CFRP laminates has been investigated. High-content GNP/Epoxy (70wt/30wt) coating was sprayed on the surface of CF/Epoxy prepregs at two different areal weight (10 and 40 g/m2) and incorporated at the middle-plane of a CFRP laminate. The effect of the GNP areal weight on viscoelastic and the mechanical behaviour of the laminates was investigated. Coupons with low-areal weight GNP interlayer showed a 25% increase in damping capacity with a trivial reduction of the elastic modulus. Moreover, a reduction in interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and fracture toughness (both mode I and mode II) was observed in the composites with GNPs interlayer. GNPs alignment and degree of compaction reached during process were found as key parameters on material performances. By increasing the areal weight a mitigation on the mechanical performances drop was achieved (-15%).

Iron is the most abundant micronutrient in plant mitochondria and it has a crucial role in biochemical reactions involving electron transfer. It has been described in Oryza sativa that Mitochondrial Iron Transporter (MIT) is an essential gene and that knockdown mutant rice plants have a decreased amount of iron in mitochondria, strongly suggesting that OsMIT is involved in mitochondrial iron uptake. In Arabidopsis thaliana, two genes encode MIT homologues. In this study, we analyzed different AtMIT1 and AtMIT2 mutant alleles, confirming that individually AtMIT1 nor AtMIT2 genes are essential. When we generated crosses between Atmit1 and Atmit2 alleles we were able to isolate homozygous double mutant plants. Interestingly, homozygous double mutant plants were obtained only when mutant alleles of Atmit2 with the T-DNA insertion in the intron region were used for crossings, and in these cases a correctly spliced AtMIT2 mRNA was generated, although at a low level. Atmit1 Atmit2 double homozygous mutant plants, which were knockout for AtMIT1 and knockdown for AtMIT2, were grown and chacterised in iron sufficient conditions. Pleiotropic developmental defects were observed including abnormal seeds, increased number of cotyledons, slow growth rate, pinoid stems, defects in flower structures and reduced seed set. We observed a possible phenomenon of T-DNA suppression in the next generation of Atmit1 Atmit2 double homozygous mutant plants, correlating with an increased splicing of the AtMIT2 intron containing the T-DNA. Molecular analysis of gene expression markers for mitochondrial and oxidative stress showed that Atmit1 Atmit2 double homozygous mutant plants express a degree of mitochondrial perturbation. A RNA-Seq study was performed and we could identify more than 760 genes differentially expressed in Atmit1 Atmit2, including genes involved in iron transport, coumarin metabolism, and hormones metabolism, transport and signaling. Our data suggest that some of the phenotypes observed in Atmit1 Atmit2 double homozygous mutant plants are mediated by defects in auxin homeostasis.

The dynamic equilibrium of iron homeostasis has an important role in sustaining metabolic and neurological functions during human life. Iron excretion is modest and unregulated hence this overall equilibrium is tightly regulated in normal conditions by increasing deficient or limiting excessive iron assimilation. Here we focus on neural tissue overload, dyshomeostasis that is preceded by excessive assimilation, disturbances in internal homeostasis or both. Normal steps in iron homeostasis include its uptake across the apical membrane of the enterocytes in a mildly acidic duodenal milieu by the major importer of ferrous iron, Divalent Metal Transporter 1 (DMT1) (Nramp2/DCT1/SLC11A2, solute carrier family 11 member 2) [1, 2], responsible for the uptake of Non-Transferrin Bound Iron (NTBI) and divalent metals [3], passage through enterocytes bound to a chaperone and crossing the basal membrane via the only known cellular ferrous iron exporter, ferroportin [4] with the iron bound to transferrin (Tf) as it exits. Cells in peripheral tissues largely utilize circulating iron after uptake by receptor-mediated endocytosis of Tf-bound Iron [5]. Derangement of duodenal NTBI absorption of iron and heavy metals is influenced by systemic iron metabolism associated with inflammation that leads to iron accumulation into peripheral tissues and potential development of neurodegenerative diseases, involving distribution and fine regulation of DMT1 also in the central nervous system, where inflammatory-related acidosis influences DMT1 uptake, via its action as a proton cotransporter. Pharmacological strategies to inhibit NTBI transport selectively will be illustrated in relationship to protection, particularly neuroprotection, against iron overload associated with acidosis, inflammation, neuroinflammation and subsequent neurodegeneration.

This article discuss the effects of heat treatment and lubrication modes on the machinability of an A356 alloy (Al-Si-Mg); the alloy is studied as-received, with solution heat-treated alloy (SHT) as well as with an alloy that is solution heat-treated and then aged at 155, 180 and 220 °C. In the course of machinability evaluation, several criteria including cutting force, surface roughness, tool wears and burr analysis (chip) were studied. The results and analysis in this work indicated that the selected machinability criteria are important and necessary to effectively evaluate the machinability of A356 alloys. The machinability of both materials and tools were estimated in terms of cutting force, chip thickness ratio and burr formation, flank wear and roughness. The effects of different cutting parameters (cutting speed and feed rate) and lubrication modes (dry, mist and wet) on the machinability of the A356 cast alloy were also examined. The influence of heat treatments on the burr formation and surface quality was clearly revealed by the experimental results. Experimental work revealed that cutting forces were influenced significantly by aging and cutting speed. However, the different aging at 155, 180, and 220 °C and the cutting speed significantly affected the machinability of the A356 cast alloy. The results obtained show that a better drilling performance in terms of surface quality occurs at a high feed rate, with dry drilling and artificial aging at T6.

The investigation aims to analyze the effect of homogenization heat treatment on the quantity, distribution, morphology, and chemical composition of δ ferrite and sigma phase in the 316L austenitic stainless steel cast billet. Microstructures of the cast billet at different locations, center, 0.5 R, R, and the subsequent 2/6-hour homogenization heat treatment at 1240 oC were examined. The microstructure at the radius R was much more uniform and expected a better performance in the following hot/cold forging processes due to the highest cooling rate compared with those at 0.5R and center. The δ ferrite often accompanies the generation of the sigma phase, and the transformation of δ ferrite into the sigma/(austenite) and retained δ ferrite is strongly related to the cooling rate after homogenization heat treatment. The sigma phase is hard and detrimental to the subsequent hot/cold forgings. It must be removed from the homogenization heat treatment before forging. Fast air cooling from 850 oC to room temperature after homogenization heat treatment cannot prohibit the sigma phase formation. Rapid cooling between 850 and 1240 oC after homogenization treatment is required to avoid the sigma phase formation in the 316L stainless steel cast billet.

The cast defects strongly degrade the mechanical properties in cast alloys. The effect of Sn addition on Al-Si alloys was investigated by 3D computed tomography, SEM and TEM. Amorphous Sn oxides are found near the alumina film, cause more shrinkage pores, initiate cracks and deteriorate mechanical properties. This work suggests not adding Sn in various Al alloys used in cast state.

In the aerospace sector, structural and non-structural components are usually subjected to a wide range of environmental conditions. Although lightweight, the use of composite parts for these applications is restricted, due to their poor performance in severe environmental conditions. Specifically, moisture can seriously damage the materials' performance, reducing their mechan-ical, thermal, electrical, and physical properties as well as the service time. A strategy to improve the materials’ resistance in humid environments is the use of protective lightweight barrier coatings to reduce the diffusion of gases and/or liquids in composites. Nanolamellar nanocom-posite characterized by the high in-plane orientation of nanoplatelets effectively works as barrier structures by generating tortuous paths for molecule diffusion. In this work, the effectiveness of protection against water uptake of nanocomposites reinforced with Graphite NanoPlatelets (GNPs) at high filler content (70, 80 and 90%wt) for Kevlar sandwich panels of a nacelle engine of an ATR42 aircraft has been investigated. Moisture uptake and Ground Air Ground (GAG) tests were carried out in an environmental chamber to reproduce temperature and relative humidity profiles representative of a real-scale application for a regional aircraft composite part. The high filler content of the graphene films ensures a high level of tortuosity by delaying and reducing moisture absorption by –71% compared to the unprotected panel, showing good barrier properties.

In this study, graphite, the most stable form of carbon, was examined for its hexagonal crystalline structure with specific dimensions (ao=2.46 Ǻ; co=6.70 Ǻ). Its framework comprises parallel carbon atom planes forming regular hexagons (side length 1.415 Ǻ) and 120° angles between adjacent atoms. Two structural variations exist: hexagonal symmetry (1-2-1-2-1-2 planes) and rhomboidal symmetry (1-2-3-1-2-3 planes). The research aimed to produce high-density graphite utilizing carbonaceous raw materials. Graphite-based materials often exhibit high porosity, necessitating additional treatments. The study successfully obtained mesophase tar pitch (yield: 45%), a pivotal raw material, and high-density graphite. The resulting graphite underwent characterization for physical properties (apparent and real density, porosity and compression strength), demonstrating conformity with existing literature data.

In this study, Ni50Ti50 powder was coated on the surface of graphite substrate (C) by plasma spraying process using a radio frequency inductively coupled plasma reactor. The coating was carried out by using 12- and 9-kW power under Ar atmosphere. The cross-section of coating layers and the surface were examined with SEM, EDX, XRD analysis and microhardness test. The thickness and quality of the coating increased with input power. Many pores were detected in the cross-sectional surface areas. Higher input power caused a better coating layer in NiTi alloy. The hardness of the coating layer decreases with higher input power.

Antarctic krill protein-iron complex and peptide-iron complex were obtained to investigate their iron bioavailability, expression of iron-regulated genes, and in vivo antioxidant capacity. Results indicated that Antarctic krill peptide-iron complex increased significantly the hemoglobin (Hb), serum iron (SI) and iron content in the liver and spleen in iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) mice (P < 0.05) compared with those of Antarctic krill protein-iron complex. Despite the gene expressions of divalent metal transporter 1(DMT1), transferrin (Tf) and transferrin receptor (TfR) could be better regulated by both Antarctic krill peptide-iron complex and protein-iron complex, the relative iron bioavailability of the Antarctic krill peptide-iron complex group (152.53±21.05%) was significantly higher than that of the protein-iron complex group (112.75±9.60%) (P<0.05). Moreover, Antarctic krill peptide-iron complex could enhance the antioxidant enzyme activities of superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), reduce the malondialdehyde (MDA) level in IDA mice compared with the protein-iron complex, reducing the cell damage caused by IDA. Therefore, these results demonstrated that Antarctic krill peptide-iron complex could be used as a highly efficient and multifunctional iron supplement.

Mn-promoted bulk iron catalysts with high specific surface area (82-211 m2.g-1) were synthesized by coprecipitation followed by drying under supercritical conditions. The catalysts were tested in the CO2 hydrogenation reaction. The Mn-promoted iron catalysts showed better textural properties than the bare Fe2O3 catalyst, allowing better dispersion of the active phase, easier reduction of iron oxide, better carburization of iron oxides and higher catalytic activity than the bare Fe2O3 catalyst. The best activity results were obtained by catalyst promotion with a very low amount of Mn (Mn/Fe ratio of 0.05). Upon steady-state conditions (T=340 ºC, total pressure of 20 bar and H2/CO2=3), this catalyst showed high CO2 conversion (44.2%) and selectivity to C2-C4 hydrocarbons (68%, olefin to paraffin ratio of 0.54), while the selectivity to C5+ hydrocarbons, CH4 and CO was about 3.2, 38.5 and 5%, respectively. A close correlation was found between catalyst textural properties and CO2 conversion. The most active MnFe-0.05 catalyst shows high stability during 72 h of reaction related to low amount of soft coke formation and catalyst activation through the formation of χ-Fe5C2 phase during the on-stream reaction.

In pigs, iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most prevalent deficiency disorder during the early postnatal period frequently developing into a critical illness. Meanwhile, in humans, only low-birth-weight infants, including premature infants are especially susceptible to developing IDA. In both human and pig neonates, the initial cause of IDA is low birth iron stores. In piglets this shortage of stored iron results mainly from genetic selection over the past few decades for large litter size and high birth weight. In consequence, pregnant sows cannot provide sufficient amount of iron to the increasing number of developing fetuses. Supplementation with iron is a common practice for the treatment of IDA in piglets. For decades, the preferred procedure for delivering iron supplements during early life stages has been through the intramuscular injection of large amount of iron dextran. However, this relatively simple therapy, which in general, efficiently corrects IDA, may generate toxic effects, and by inducing hepcidin expression, may decrease bioavailability of supplemental iron. New iron supplements are considered now with the aim to combine improvement of hematological status, blunting hepcidin expression, and minimizing toxicity of the administered iron. We propose that iron-deficient piglets constitute a convenient animal model for performing pre-clinical studies with iron supplements.

To study the anti-cracking performance of cast-in-place concrete inner shaft lining structure under the combined effects of temperature and constraint, this paper first developed a novel temperature stress test machine suitable for the shape of the inner shaft lining structure and with adjustable endpoint constraint, providing specialized experimental equipment for subsequent cast-in-place concrete inner shaft lining temperature stress simulation experiments. Then, this paper preliminarily studied the temperature, strain, and stress changes of the cast-in-place inner shaft lining under the condition of 100% endpoint constraint by simulating the internal hydration heating and cooling process of the cast-in-place inner shaft lining and using the temperature stress test machine to accurately control the endpoint constraint conditions of the inner shaft lining scaled model.

The aim of this work was to prepare bioplastics from renewable and biodegradable molecules. In particular, the bioplastics were produced by using as biopolymer source the grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) flour, the proteins of which were structurally modified by means of microbial transglutaminase, an enzyme able to catalyze isopeptide bonds between glutamines and lysines. We analyzed, by means of Zeta-potential, the flour suspension with the aim to choose which pH is more stable for the production of film-forming solutions. The bioplastics were produced by casting and they were characterized according to several technological properties. Optical analysis demonstrated that films cast in the presence of the microbial enzyme are more transparent compared to the untreated ones. Moreover, the visualization by Scanning Electron Microscopy demonstrated that the enzyme-modified films possessed a more compact and homogeneous structure. Furthermore, the presence of microbial transglutaminase allowed to obtain film more mechanically resistant. Finally, digestion experiments under physiological conditions performed in order to obtain information useful for applying these novel biomaterials as carriers in the industrial field, indicated that the enzyme-treated coatings might allow the delivery of bioactive molecules in the gastro-intestinal tract.

Dietary iron assimilation is critical for health and essential to prevent iron deficient states and related comorbidities, such as anemia. The bioavailability of iron is limited, while its absorption and metabolism are tightly controlled to keep body iron stores within a relatively narrow range. Genetic inactivation of the iron hormone hepcidin causes hereditary hemochromatosis, an endocrine disorder of iron overload characterized by chronic hyperabsorption of dietary iron, with deleterious clinical complications if untreated. The impact of high dietary iron intake and elevated body iron stores in the general population is not well understood. Herein, we summarize epidemiological data suggesting that high intake of heme iron, which is abundant in meat products, poses a risk factor for metabolic syndrome pathologies, cardiovascular diseases, and some cancers. We discuss clinical relevance and potential limitations of data from cohort studies, as well as the need to establish causality and elucidate molecular mechanisms.

Hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) is the main genetic cause of iron overload and is regarded as metal-related human toxicosis. HH may result from HFE and non-HFE gene mutations causing hepcidin deficiency or hepcidin resistance. The disorder has a high biochemical penetrance, but a low clinical prevalence. Unfortunately, the majority of patients with HH remain undiagnosed at their disease-curable stage. The main aim of HH therapy is to prevent iron overload in the early-phase disease and elimination of excess iron from the body by phlebotomy in its late stage. Raising global awareness of HH among health professionals, their training to pay attention to early HH signs and symptoms, and strict patient monitoring are critical management strategies for preventing treatment delays, upgrading its efficacy, and improving patient prognosis.

In eutrophic waters, such as Mikawa Bay, Japan, anoxic bottom water develops in summer. This causes sulfide release into seawater by sulfate reduction in the sediment, leading to environmental problems. The addition of iron to sediments is a method used to improve the sediment environment, which was devised from a natural phenomenon. However, this method has not yet been quantitatively evaluated. In this study, we aim to quantitatively evaluate the suppressive effect of iron on sulfide release. First, we develop a sediment model that focuses on S and Fe. We then attempted to reproduce the observations and experiments on sulfide dynamics using the model. Consequently, the proposed model was able to reproduce field sulfur and Fe dynamics in sediments. Additionally, the model described the characteristics of sulfide release considering the effects of additive iron materials. Finally, we conducted predictive calculations and quantitatively evaluated the effects of adding iron materials to the sediments in terms of sulfur and iron cycles.

The microstructure of the substrate plays a crucial role in the anodizing process. Anodizing cast aluminum alloys is quite challenging due to the higher levels of alloying elements present compared to pure aluminum. Elements such as silicon, iron, and copper significantly impact the growth and quality of the anodic layer. Additionally, anodizing parameters such as electrolyte composition, current density, and temperature are critical in determining the morphology and thickness of the anodic film. The casting process, surface condition, and post-treatment also affect the properties of the anodic layer. Optimizing these parameters is essential to achieve a durable and high-quality anodic layer. This work aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the various factors affecting the anodizing of cast aluminum alloys and the properties of the anodic layer, including its thickness, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance.

Microfiltration membranes derived from semi-crystalline polymers face various challenges when synthesized through the extrusion–casting technique, including the use of large quantities of polymer, long casting times, and the generation of substantial waste. This study focuses on synthesizing these membranes using spin-casting followed by stretch-induced pore formation. Recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and virgin polyethylene powder, combined with a calcium carbonate filler, were used as the source materials for the membranes. The influence of the polymer-filler ratio with and without stretching on the morphology, tensile strength, and water flow rate was investigated. Optimal conditions were determined, emphasizing a balance between pore structure and mechanical integrity. The permeable membrane possessed a mean pore diameter of 500 nm, exhibited a tensile strength measuring 32 MPa, allowed water to flow at a rate of 19 ml/min, and had a water contact angle of 126°. These membranes effectively eliminated suspended particles from water, with their performance evaluated against that of commercially available membranes. This research outlines a synthesis route for microfiltration membranes tailored to semi-crystalline polymers and their plastic forms, utilizing the spin-casting technique.

Today with enhancement in technology, sciences, there is also an increase in global heating rate. There is an urgent need of any alternate efficient source to reduce the wastage of energy and to utilize it efficiently. The advanced preparation of Expanded graphite ,lauric acid, stearic acid as shape stabilized phase change material deals with different energy harvesting applications. The main reason behind the need for synthesis of this matrix is to prepare a material that can be used in low temperature energy storage applications. Mixture of lauric acid , stearic acid impregnated in expanded graphite through vacuum impregnation followed by Vacuum Drying and Microwave acid treatment serves as novel shape stabilized phase change material of its type. The microwave acid treatment was done in order to increase the removal of moisture from the sample thus initiating proper bonding of its constituents. The mixture was produced in 1:1:1 ratio where all expanded graphite, lauric acid , stearic acid has one proportions of each other. The product obtained after microwave acid treatment was subjected to SEM, DSC analysis

We fabricate paper-supported semiconducting devices by rubbing a layered molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) crystal onto a piece of paper, similarly to the action of drawing/writing with a pencil on paper. We show that the abrasion between the MoS₂ crystal and the paper substrate efficiently exfoliates the crystals, breaking the weak van der Waals interlayer bonds and leading to the deposition of a film of interconnected MoS₂ platelets. Employing this simple method, that can be easily extended to other 2D materials, we fabricate MoS₂-on-paper broadband photodectectors with spectral sensitivity from the ultraviolet (UV) to the near-infrared (NIR). We also used these paper-based photodetectors to acquire pictures of objects by mounting the photodetectors in a homebuilt single-pixel camera setup.

The cast grains of the 7055 aluminum alloy were refined by adding Sm + Er, and the proper heat treatment procedure was utilized to further precipitate the rare earth phase in order to increase the alloy's strength and toughness. The grain size, microstructure and phase were characterized by optical microscopes (OM), Scanning electron microscopy - energy spectrum (SEM-EDS), XRD diffractometer (XRD). The macroscopic hardness, yield strength and tensile strength of alloy materials were measured by hardness meter and universal electronic tensile machine. The results shown that the as-cast sample and the heat treatment sample all exist Al10Cu7Sm2 and Al8Cu4Er rare earth phase; But after heat treatment, the volume percentage of the rare earth phase dramatically increased and the dispersion was more unified. When 0.3wt.%Sm and 0.1wt.%Er were added, the grain size could be refined to 53μm. With the increase of the total content of rare earth elements, the refining effect first increased and then decreased. Under 410 oC solid solution for 2h + 150oC aging for 12h, the macroscopic hardness, yield strength, tensile strength and elongation of 0.3wt.%Sm + 0.1wt.%Er+7055 as-cast sample were 155.8HV, 620.5Mpa, 658.1Mpa, and 11.90%, respectively.

Two Iron Age settlements, Tuzusai and Taldy Bulak 2 (ca. 500 BCE to 1 CE), located in Southeastern Kazakhstan on the Talgar alluvial fan north of the Tian Shan range, have yielded a small collection of bone, antler/horn, bronze, and stone artifacts with affinity to nomadic art of the first millennium BCE. Both settlements date within the period of late Saka culture. Two pieces have decorative ornamentations with zoomorphic imagery: a small carved fragment of a with carved images of a wing and an ear and a perforated bone disk with the carving of three birds’ heads. The other artifacts include objects associated with Saka weaponry or nomadic economy such as the two antler/horn psalia (cheek pieces) and a bronze amulet. A carnelian bead will also be described as an imported object. These special finds are found on the occupation floors of mud brick houses and pit houses of settlements, not in grave or burial contexts. The objects are placed in stratigraphic sequence in the settlement sites. Then the method for placing these objects within the chronological framework of “animal-style art” is through comparisons with similar objects found throughout Eurasia—a method used in Soviet and Post-Soviet archaeology. The results show that functional and stylistic elements of the six objects indicate that the Talgar settlements were part of a larger world-system of trade and communication along the early Silk Route(s).

Al has very good corrosion resistance and corrosion properties. The corrosion resistance of Al cast alloys is different because these alloys contain a lot of elements. Especially in secondary alloys which contain more impurity elements from which Fe is the most common. This study deals with secondary AlSi7Mg0.3 cast alloys which contain more Fe and are affected by a chloride corrosion environment. This environment was selected based on the application of castings in the automo-tive industry. The main object was to research the effect of such an environment on basic me-chanical properties and fatigue properties. The results show that a higher Fe content does not lead to a significant reduction in the properties of the casting and the chloride environment is not so harmful. Therefore, can be stated that the investigated secondary sand-cast experimental materials can replace the primary alloys without losing the required corrosion and mechanical properties.

Melt mixing is a convenient method to prepare polymer nanocomposites, but the extent of the dispersion of the solid filler reached is often limited, and may compromise the anticipated performance of these materials during service. Since the efficiency of extensional flows on dispersion is now well recognized, several mixers were designed with the aim of inducing both shear and extensional flow components. This work combines experimental and numerical data to better understand the kinetics of the dispersion of graphite nanoplates in a polypropylene melt, using a mixing device that consists of a series of stacked rings with equal outer diameter and alternating larger and smaller inner diameters, thus creating a series of converging/diverging flows. Numerical simulation of the flow using the opensource OpenFOAM software assuming both inelastic and viscoelastic responses predicted the velocity, streamlines, flow type and shear and normal stress fields for the mixer. Experimental and computed data were combined to determine the trade-off between the local degree of dispersion of the PP/GnP nanocomposite, measured as Area ratio, and the absolute average value of the hydrodynamic stresses multiplied by the local cumulative residence time. From considerations based on a theoretical approach to dispersion, the cohesive strength of the GnP agglomerates studied was estimated to be in the range 3 - 10kPa.

This contribution was devoted to unveil the strain rate sensitivity (SRS) of G18NiCrMo3-6 cast steel in tension/compression asymmetry. For that purpose, detailed mechanical characterization tests were conducted providing a process window covering quasi-static and medium strain rate regimes (0.001, 0.1, 10 [ s¯¹]) in tension and compression states. By means of this experimental ef-fort, the SRS of the material could be extracted by a function of strain and strain rate which ena-bling to create a mathematical expression to easily be implemented as a state variable for constitu-tive material modeling. Finally, a pressure and rate dependent constitutive material model on the basis of Cocks'89 yield locus definition was created by a subroutine (UMAT) file and the material parameters were verified with respect to the experimental data. The UMAT file also takes into account the tension/compression asymmetry in yielding to handle the effect of porous media plas-ticity concept. The predictions of the proposed material model are quite in line with the experi-mental outputs.

Two low-C steels microalloyed with Nb were fabricated by simulated strip casting, one with Mo and the other without Mo. Both alloys were coiled at 900 °C to investigate the effect of Mo on the precipitation behaviour in austenite in low-C strip-cast Nb steels. The mechanical properties results show that during the coiling at 900 °C the hardness of both alloys increases and reaches a peak after 3000 s and then decreased after 10,000 s. Additionally, the hardness of the Mo-containing alloy is higher than that of the Mo-free alloy in all coiling conditions. Thermo-Calc predictions suggest that MC-type carbides exist in equilibrium at 900 °C, which are confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM examination shows that precipitates are formed after 1000 s of coiling in both alloys and the size of the particles is refined by the addition of Mo. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) reveal that the carbides are enriched in Nb and N. The presence of Mo is also observed in the particles in the Nb-Mo steel during coiling. The concentration of Mo in the precipitates decreases with increasing particle size and coiling time. The precipitates in the Nb-Mo steel provide significant strengthening increments of up to 140 MPa, much higher than that in the Nb steel, ~ 96 MPa. A thermodynamic rationale is given, which explains that the enrichment of Mo in the precipitates reduces the interfacial energy between precipitates and matrix. This is likely to lower the energy barrier for their nucleation and also reduce the coarsening rate, thus leading to finer precipitates during coiling at 900 °C.

Pathogenic microorganisms can cause a range of infectious diseases and are often treated with antimicrobial agents. The rise of antimicrobial resistance caused by inappropriate use of these agents in various settings has become a global health threat. There is, therefore, a need to find new and effective agents to combat infections caused by resistant pathogens. Nanotechnology has seen significant growth and development in recent years and has a wide range of applications in various fields, including health, agriculture, and industry. This novel area offers the potential for the synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) with antimicrobial activity, such as iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs). The use of IONPs is a promising way to overcome antimicrobial resistance or pathogenicity because of their ability to interact with several biological molecules and to inhibit microbial growth. This review focuses on the most common green synthesis methods for producing IONPs using bacteria, fungi, plants, and organic waste, as well as the most common methods for the characterization of these IONPs. Finally, it summarizes their application as promising antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, and antiviral agents.

Non-impregnated small pore graphite (NSPG) with the compact microstructure for using in molten salt reactors (MSR) was prepared by the novel process, and the pore diameter of the obtained graphite was reduced to ~800 nm. The irradiation evaluation of the prepared graphite was carried out by 7 MeV Xe26+ ion irradiation and the microstructural changes of the graphite were investigated with IG-110 as a comparison. The graphitization degree of NSPG was higher than that of IG-110, though it was not subjected to an impregnation process. Under low-dose ion irradiation (

Graphite carbon nitride (g-C3N4) supported PtNi alloy nanoparticles (NPs) were fabricated via a facile and simple impregnation and chemical reduction method and explored their catalytic performance towards hydrogen evolution from ammonia borane (AB). Interestingly, the resultant Pt_0.5Ni₀.5/g-C₃N₄ catalyst affords superior performance, including 100% conversion, 100% H₂ selectivity, yielding the extraordinary initial total turnover frequency (TOF) of 250.8 mol_H2 min^-1 (mol_Pt)^-1 for hydrogen evolution from AB at 10 °C, a relatively low activation energy of 38.09 kJ mol⁻¹, and a remarkable reusability (at least 10 times), which surpass most of the noble metal heterogeneous catalysts. This notably improved activity is attributed to the charge interaction between PtNi NPs and g-C₃N₄ support. Especially, the nitrogen-containing functional groups on g-C₃N₄, serving as the anchoring sites for PtNi NPs, may be beneficial for becoming a uniform distribution and decreasing the particle size for the NPs. Our work not only provides a cost-effective route for constructing high-performance catalysts towards the hydrogen evolution of AB but also prompts the utilization of g-C₃N₄ in energy fields.

Iron deficiency (ID) is by far the most common nutritional disorder in developing and developed countries. When left untreated, ID leads to anemia. Although the usual recommended treatment for iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is oral iron therapy with countless products, such therapy necessitates administration for &gt;3-6 months with questionable patient compliance since most oral iron products have an unpleasant metallic aftertaste and cause intestinal side effects. In addition, in certain gastrointestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel diseases or untreated gluten-sensitive enteropathy, oral iron therapy is contraindicated or unsuccessful. Intravenous iron is considered safe in adults, where adverse events are mild and easily managed. The experience with parenteral iron in children is much more limited and many pediatricians appear reluctant to use it because of uncorroborated fears of serious anaphylactic reactions. In the current article, we thoroughly review the available pediatric literature on the use of all commercially available parenteral iron products except ferumoxytol, which was recently removed from the market. We conclude that parenteral iron appears to be safe in children, it works faster than oral iron and the newer third-generation products allow replacement of the total iron deficit at a single setting.

Although 7055 aluminum alloy is a deformed aluminum alloy and will show excellent mechanical properties after recrystallization after large deformation, it is a method to enrich its application range if rare earth is added and the rare earth phase dispersion is promoted by heat treatment. This article used optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), micro Vickers hardness and room temperature stretching methods to study the as-cast 7055-xEr (x=0wt.%, 0.2wt.%, 0.4wt.%, 0.6wt.%, 0.8wt.%) aluminum alloy after being subjected to 460 oC×3h homogenization and 410 oC×1h solid solution+150 oC×12h aging treatment the changes in microstructure and properties. The results indicated that: when 0.2wt.%Er was added to 7055 aluminum alloy after solution at 410 oC×1h and aging at 150 oC×12h, the dendrite structure was significantly reduced, the grain thinning was obvious and the distribution was uniform, Al8Cu4Er phase appeared in the lamellar eutectic η-Mg(Zn,Al,Cu)2 structure at grain boundaries, and the hardness reached 168.8HV. The yield strength, tensile strength and elongation were 542.12Mpa, 577.67MPa and 8.36%, respectively.

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the leading malignancy diseases worldwide, especially in Asian. CAST is a potential oncogene in GC carcinogenesis process. The character of macrophage infiltration in GC microenvironment was also unaddressed. Methods: We first applied machine searching in gene candidate evaluation of GC. CAST expression was analyzed via the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis 2 (GEPIA2) database. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was downloaded from STRING. We investigated the impact of CAST on clinical prognosis using Kaplan-Meier plotter. The correlations between CAST and Lgr5 and macrophage infiltration in GC was surveyed via TIMER 2.0. Finally, GeneMANIA was also used to evaluate the possible functional linkage between genes. Results: After machine-assisted searching, CAST expression was found signicant difference in the overall survival of GC patients. STRING revealed CAST related proteomics and transcriptomics associations, mainly about CAPN family. Moreover, CAST significantly impacts the prognosis of GC from other datasets validation. Notably, high CAST expression was correlated with worse overall survival in GC patients (hazard ratio = 1.59; logrank P = 9.4 x 10-8). CAST and Lgr5 expressions were both positively correlated with WNT 2 and WNT 2B. Among GC patients in several datasets, CAST and macrophage infiltration evaluated together showed no obvious trend toward poor clinical overall survival. Conclusion: CAST plays an important role in GC clinical prognosis and is associated with WNT 2/WNT 2B/Lgr5. Our study denmostrated that CAST in GC overall survival is regulated by macrophage infiltration.

Oral ferric citrate hydrate (FCH) is effective for iron deficiency in hemodialysis patients.; however, it remains unclear how iron balance in the body affects iron absorption from the intestinal tract. This prospective, observational study (Riona-Oral Iron Absorption Trial, R-OIAT, UMIN 000031406), conducted at 42 hemodialysis centers in Japan, wherein 268 hemodialysis patients without inflammation were enrolled and treated with a fixed amount of FCH for 6 months. We assessed the predictive value of hepcidin-25 for iron absorption and iron shift between ferritin (FTN) and red blood cells (RBCs) following FCH therapy. Serum iron changes at 2 h (ΔFe2h) after FCH ingestion were evaluated as iron absorption. The primary outcome was the quantitative delineation of iron variables on ΔFe2h and the secondary outcome was the description of the predictors of body iron balance. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used to identify the determinants of iron absorption during each phase of FCH treatment. ΔFe2h increased when hepcidin-25 and MCH decreased (-0.155, -0.242 to -0.068, p = 0.001; -2.574, -4.421 to -0.726, p = 0.006, respectively) in GEE. Hepcidin-25 increased when erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) decreased (-0.002, -0.002 to -0.001, p=0.000). FTN increased when RBC and ESA decreased (-0.466, -0.605 to -0.327, p=0.000; -0.002, -0.004 to -0.000, p=0.05, respectively. Limiting erythropoiesis to maintain hemoglobin levels induces RBC reduction in hemodialysis patients, resulting in increased hepcidin-25 and FTN levels. Hepcidin-25 production may prompt an iron shift from RBC-iron to FTN-iron, inhibiting iron absorption even with continued FCH intake.

Remote sensing technologies may play a fundamental role in the environmental assessment of open-cast mining and the accurate quantification of mine land rehabilitation efforts. Here, we developed a systematic geographic object-based image analysis (GEOBIA) approach to map the amount of revegetated area and to quantify the land-use changes in open-cast mines in the Carajás region situated in the eastern Amazon. Based on high-resolution satellite images from 2011 to 2015 from different sensors (GeoEye, WorldView-3 and Ikonos), we quantified forests, cangas (natural metalliferous savanna ecosystems), mine land, revegetated areas and water bodies. Based on the GEOBIA approach, threshold values were established to discriminate land cover classes using spectral bands, and the NDVI and NDWI indices and LiDAR digital ground and slope models. The overall accuracy was higher than 90%, and the Kappa indices varied between 0.82 and 0.88. During the observation period, the mining complex expanded; for that, canga and forest vegetation was converted to mine land. At the same time, the amount of revegetated area increased. Thus, we conclude that our approach is capable of providing consistent information regarding land cover changes in mines, with a special focus on the amount of revegetation necessary to fulfill environmental liabilities.

Ghrelin and obestatin, two antagonist peptide hormones, are purportedly involved in stimulating appetite and controlling energy balance in humans. Serum ghrelin level is also associated with iron deficiency anemia (IDA), but no study has yet been made of the obestatin level in patients with IDA, even though both hormones are a single gene product. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation is to see whether there is a link between IDA and these two hormones among other hematological parameters in patients with IDA. To measure ghrelin and obestatin, human saliva and serum were collected from 30 women with IDA, aged 31.7 ± 10.7 years, and 30 control women, aged 30.2 ± 8.0 years, with repeated collection of samples over a period of 1 week and 1 month. Saliva and serum ghrelin levels were measured by ELISA. Serum hemoglobin, ferritin, hematocrit and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) values were determined with an Olympus AU2700. Saliva and serum ghrelin and obestatin levels were significantly lower in the IDA group compared with controls; these levels increased slightly above baseline with iron treatment, but remained below the control values. Furthermore, and as expected, serum hemoglobin, ferritin, and hematocrit levels were significantly increased with iron treatment, while total iron-binding capacity decreased compared to baseline concentrations. The findings suggest that IDA might be linked to imbalance of circulating (serum) and non-circulating (saliva) ghrelin and obestatin levels. Decreased ghrelin and obestatin might destroy iron homeostasis through its effect on intestinal absorption. Measuring these hormone levels might be useful for monitoring the response to iron treatment. Also, serum and saliva levels for both hormones were well correlated. Thus, using saliva in place of serum for monitoring the two hormones should minimize inconvenience and patient discomfort.

In this study, the effects of combined addition of CeLa and GdY on microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast Al-4Cu-1Mn alloys were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopies (TEM) and tensile testing. The results show that the minor addition of CeLa and GdY leads to the refinement of grain size. The addition of CeLa results in the formation of supersaturated vacancies in the Al matrix, whereas the addition of GdY leads to a decrease in the precipitation temperature of the Al2Cu phase. The combined CeLa and GdY addition can significantly increase ultimate tensile strength (UTS) while losing only a small amount of elongation (EL). Compared with the unmodified alloy, the grain size and SDAS of the alloy (0.2 wt% CeLa + 0.1 wt% GdY) were diminished by 67.2% and 58.7%, respectively, while maximum hardness and UTS rose by 31.2% and 36.9%, correspondingly.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to find out the incidence of anemia in pregnant women of Swat District; to analyze the iron variations and its dietary effects.Data were collected during the periods of January – September 2016. The study of samples comprised of 250 pregnant women in the different trimester. Blood sample from each woman was collected and full blood count (FBC) was conducted through Mindray BC-3000 plus hem analyzer for all pregnant individuals. Confirmed anemic cases were then examined for IDA with serum ferritin, serum iron, total iron binding capacity (TIBC) through Randox kit and serum transferrin saturation was estimated by formula (serum ferritin saturation =serum iron ×100/TIBC). The total number of participants in the first trimester were 50, among them 26 women were suffer from iron deficiency anemia (IDA) with 52% weightage of prevalence rate, (mean Hb concentration 9.602 ± 0.87 g/dl). The rates of IDA were 63.3%; ( mean Hb concentration 8.48 ± 1.24 g/dl) and 54%; ( mean Hb concentration 9.18 ± 1.28 g/dl), among 150 and 50 participants in the second and third trimester, respectively. A significant correlation was found between serum ferritin and Hb, serum ferritin against MCV and serum ferritin against MCH. The high prevalence of anemia was found 78.2% in the age group from 26-30 followed by 78.2% in the age group 36-40 years compared to those of other age groups in the second trimester. In this study the prevalence of IDA in third trimester is lower compared to first and second trimester.

Inflammation is an underlying problem for many disease states and has been implicated in iron deficiency (ID). This study aimed to determine whether iron status is improved by epigallocate-chin-3-gallate (EGCG) through reducing inflammation. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 8 each): positive controls, negative controls, lipo-polysaccharide (LPS, 0.5 mg/kg body weight), and LPS + EGCG (LPS plus 600 mg EGCG/kg diet). Iron status, hepcidin, C - reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured. There were no differences in treatment groups compared with control in CRP, hepcidin, and liver iron concentrations. Serum iron concentrations were significantly lower in the LPS (p=0.02) and the LPS+EGCG (p=0.01) than in the positive control group. Compared to the positive control group, spleen iron concentrations were significantly lower in the negative con-trol (p<0.001) but not with both LPS groups. SAA concentrations were significantly lower in LPS + EGCG group compared to LPS alone group. IL-6 concentrations were significantly higher in LPS+EGCG (p= 0.004) than in any of the three groups. EGCG reduced SAA concentrations but did not affect hepcidin or improve serum iron concentration or other iron markers.

We present a simple strategy to generate a family of carbon dot/iron oxide nanoparticles (C/Fe-NPs) that relies on the thermal decomposition of iron (III) acetylacetonate in the presence of a highly fluorescent carbon-rich precursor, while polyethylene glycol serves as the passivation agent. By varying the molar ratio of the reactants, a series of C/Fe-NPs have been synthesized with tuneable elemental composition in terms of C, H, O, N, Fe. The quantum yield is enhanced from 6% to 9% as the carbon content increases from 27% to 36%, while the room temperature saturation magnetization is improved from 4.1 emu/g to 17.7 emu/g as the iron content is enriched from 17 to 31%. In addition, the C/Fe-NPs show excellent antimicrobial properties, minimal cytotoxicity and demonstrate promising bioimaging capabilities, thus showing great potential for the development of advanced diagnostic tools.

Two billion people worldwide suffer from anemia with reproductive-age women being disproportionately affected. Iron plays a crucial role in cellular function and impacts cognition, physical function, and quality of life. Iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are associated with adverse effects on pregnancy and fetal development. Oral iron supplementation has been the standard treatment for IDA for decades often producing sub-optimal outcomes. Many babies are still being born with ID and suffer adverse sequelae due to inadequate iron levels in the mothers. Is it time to consider broad scale-up of parenteral iron as a new standard of care?

Modification of electrode surface with a selective layer gives the possibility to detect target ana-lytes of forensic interest. 3-(4-trifluoromethyl)-phenyl)-thiophene (ThPhCF3) was deposited on a graphite (G) electrode by electrochemical oxidation and characterized as a receptor for the recognition of synthetic stimulants (2-aminoindane, buphedrone, naphyrone). First, the structural characterization of the polymeric layer were obtained from Raman spectroscopy. Second, the electrochemical profiles of selected synthetic stimulants and their affinity to ThPhCF3/G-modified electrodes were studied using square wave voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spec-troscopy. The values of the adsorption constant show the importance of – PhCF3 groups in the interaction with synthetic stimulants, namely recognition by the formation of hydrogen bonds (Kads (buphedrone) < Kads (2-AI)) and interaction with aromatic H atoms (Kads (buphedrone) < Kads (naphyrone)). It was demonstrated that the polymeric layer derived from thiophene with – PhCF3 group is capable to increase the intensity of the electrochemical signal.

The ubiquitous deployment of Li-ion batteries (LIBs) in more demanding applications has reinforced the need to understand root-causes of thermal runaway. Herein we perform a forensic simulation of a real-case failure scenario, using localised heating of Li(Ni0.5Mn0.3Co0.2)O2 versus graphite 18650 cylindrical cells. This study determined the localised temperatures that would lead to venting and thermal runaway of these cells, as well as correlating the gases produced as a function of degradation pathway. Catastrophic failure, involving melting (with internal cell temperatures exceeding 1085°C), deformation and ejection of cell componentry, was induced by locally applying 200 °C and 250 °C to a fully charged cell. Conversely, catastrophic failure was not observed when the same temperatures were applied to the cells at lower state of charge (SOC). This work highlights the importance of SOC, chemistry and heat in driving the thermal failure mode of Ni-rich LIB cells, allowing for a better understanding of battery safety and associated design improvements.

To address friction and wear challenges in dry contacts, manufacturers often employ self-lubricating materials. Graphite and its derivatives stand out as particularly suitable due to their exceptional tribological properties. However, under intense friction conditions, graphite can experience a decline in lubricating efficiency due to severe abrasive wear. This abrasive damage results in elevated activated carbon surfaces with increased surface energy, fostering greater adhesion between sliding surfaces. The low friction coefficient of graphite is not an inherent property but rather a consequence of water vapor adsorption by the material. Beyond 150°C, desorption of the vapor occurs, leading to a transition in the friction coefficient from µ=0.1 to µ=0.6. To address this issue, impregnation solutions for self-lubricating materials have been developed, with various compositions tailored to specific objectives. Common types include molybdenum disulfide, soft metals, or polymers. In this predominantly experimental study, the impact of polymer impregnation on the evolution of friction force and wear rate in graphite material bearings subjected to a dry fretting contact under severe thermal stresses at 270°C was investigated. Additionally, the mechanical stresses in the bearings throughout different phases of our tests were analyzed using a numerical model.

Thalassemia treatment still relies on supportive care, including mainly blood transfusion and iron chelation therapy. Iron chelation therapy is considered the main responsible factor for the marked improvement in survival of thalassemic patients. Hemosiderosis should be prevented with appropriate chelation therapy from early childhood, timely dose adjustment according to changing body weight, as well as close monitoring of organ iron overload. Three iron chelators are currently available and the choice of appropriate chelator or their combination in pediatric population is individualized, depending on iron overload in target organs, patient age, adverse events and compliance issues, due to the limitations in their administration.

Iron (Fe) deficiency specifically is the most common nutritional disorder due to insufficient absorbable Fe. Biofortification is a process of enriching the nutrient content of staple crops and is considered as a sustainable and cost-effective strategy to address micronutrient deficiency problems especially in the less developed countries. Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a staple food in many developing countries worldwide and is an excellent source of micronutrients. Biofortification of chickpea is a possible solution to address Fe deficiency problem. Chickpea biofortification experiment was conducted under field conditions to evaluate the effects of different doses of Fe fertilizer (0 kg ha-1,10 kg ha-1 and 30 kg ha-1 of Fe-EDDHA) on Fe content in seeds of 18 chickpea cultivars. The experiment was designed as a factorial combination of 18 chickpea cultivars and 3 different doses in a randomized complete block design with 4 replications at two locations in Saskatchewan in 2015 and 2016. Fe concentration in seeds across 18 different chickpea cultivars increased with Fe fertilization. Fe concentration in X05TH20-2 and CDC Frontier cultivars increased from 57 ppm to 59 ppm and 56 ppm to 58 ppm, respectively, after adding Fe fertilizer in both location in 2015 and 2016.

The effect of filling velocity on positive macrosegregations in large size steel ingots was studied. Macrosegregation and macro-/micro-structure were characterized on the hot-tops and a portion of the upper section of two ingots. The measurements revealed that segregation features in the two ingots varied as a function of the alloying elements, and that the severity of positive macrosegregation in the casting body was reduced when the filling rate was increased. It was also found that at the higher filling rate, grain morphologies in the first solidified zones of the ingot changed from columnar to equiaxe, and secondary dendrite arm spacing (SDAS) became slightly smaller in the intermediate and final solidified zones. The experimental findings were analyzed in the framework of diffusion and convection controlled solidification, as well as liquid metal flow theories. The solute dependence of segregation features was related to the difference in solid-liquid partition coefficient and diffusion capability of each element in the liquid iron. Calculation of Reynolds numbers (Re) during the filling process, for both ingots, showed that higher filling velocity caused more instable movement of the liquid metal in the initial solidification stage, resulting in the modification of grain morphology, as well as accelerated solidification rate.

The economics and safety of reactors can be affected by the diffusion of fission products into graphite. Xenon (Xe) fission products diffusing into the graphite is the most critical neutron absorber and poison that can slow down or stop the chain reaction. The transport parameters for inhibiting the xenon diffusion in graphite are therefore the utmost scientific problem. Self-sintered nanopore-isotropic (~ 40nm) graphite (SSNG) derived from green pitch coke can decrease Xe diffusion into the graphite. In this study, a method for measurement of diffusion coefficients of fission products diffusion in graphite by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) was reported. The SSNG substrates were implanted with Xe at a dose of 4.8×1015 ions/cm2 and energy of 7 MeV. The RT-implanted samples were annealed in a vacuum at 650°C for 9 h. The implanted and annealed samples were characterized by RBS. The diffusion coefficient D(Xe,650°C) is 6.49×10-20 m2/s. The results indicate the excellent ability to inhibit Xe diffusion of the SSNG and present significance in designing and evaluating the safety of nuclear reactors.

Using analysis methods such as Rutherford backscattering Spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy, the diffusion behavior of iodine in micro/nano-porous graphite under high-temperature conditions was studied. The results indicate that iodine diffusion leads to the contraction of graphite microcrystals, a decrease in interlayer spacing, and an increase in defect density, resulting in a reduction in microcrystal size. Upon diffusion of iodine out of iodine-loaded graphite, the microcrystal size of the graphite increases, the interlayer spacing appears to return to the initial state, and the defect density decreases. By comparing the iodine diffusion performance of nanoporous graphite G400 and G450 with microporous graphite G500, it was determined that nanoporous graphite exhibits better inhibition of iodine diffusion compared to microporous graphite. Studying the diffusion behavior of iodine in micro/nano-porous graphite has significant academic significance and engineering value for the screening, design, and performance optimization of nuclear graphite.

Development of carbon nanomaterials for adsorption thus removal of organic pollutants from water is a progressive research subject. In this regard, carbon nanomaterials with bifunctionality towards polar and non-polar or even amphiphilic undesired materials is indeed attractive for further study and implementation. Here, we created carbon buckypaper adsorbents comprising amphiphilic (oxygenated amorphous carbon (a-COx)/graphite (G)) nanofilaments that can dynamically adsorb organic biomolecules (i.e. urease enzyme) and thus purify the wastewaters of relevant industries. Given the dynamic conditions of the test, the adsorbent was highly efficient in adsorption of the enzyme (88%) while permeable to water (2382 L.h-1.m-2), thus holds a great promise for further development and upscaling. A subsequent citric acid functionalization declined selectivity of the membrane to urease, implying the biomolecules adsorb mostly via graphitic domains rather than oxidized, polar amorphous carbon ones. The devised platform i.e. the urease functionalized buckypaper is optimally conductive (13 S.cm-1) and can be further employed as a biosensor. Accordingly, water treatment can be linked to biosensing via a nanostructured membrane.

Summary: PURPOSE. Development of a drainless energy-saving technology for the processing of high-moisture iron-containing sludge from metallurgical production. RESEARCH METHOD. The regularities of the combined process of chemical dehydration of high-moisture iron-containing sludge by powdered waste of lime and dolomite, hardening and agglomeration by pressing in a single technological cycle on the developed experimental plant were studied. In the course of laboratory studies, the temperature of the mass, the rate of dehydration, the chemical composition of the mixtures, the appearance of the resulting briquettes, the weight loss during agglomeration-humidity of the mixtures, and mechanical strength of the briquettes were measured. RESULTS. New patterns have been established that have made it possible to develop a nonfiring method for producing iron-containing materials and self-healing briquettes. The essence of his method, which is one of the main provisions of scientific novel provisions, is to combine dehydration and self-hardening of the mixture with the process of shaping by applying external pressure to the hardening mixture in molds to obtain agglomerated material in the form of briquettes in a single technological cycle. The proposed technology does not require drying or firing, and a set of strength properties occurs as the material is cooled in air during the day. A new energy-efficient and drainless method for the production of iron-containing briquettes has been developed, which combines the processes of chemical dehydration and agglomeration in one technological cycle. CONCLUSION. The proposed project and technology will allow organization of production for the processing of high-moisture iron-containing sludge and the production a complex iron-containing material as a secondary metal-containing raw material for metallurgical plants for the production of steel and rolled metal. and dolomite dust from dry gas cleaning as dehydrating and binding materials, as well as screening of coke and coal as a reducing agents. The proposed technology also solves the problems of environmental pollution and land acquisition for the storage of production waste.

Iron powders having average particle sizes of ~40µm are mechanically mixed thoroughly with aluminum powders ranging from 1 to 10 in wt.% with an average particle size of ~10µm. Two different powder metallurgical techniques cold and hot pressing are used to study the effect of the additive element powder on the mechanical properties, wear properties and the microstructure of the iron based alloys. The hot pressing technique was performed at a temperature up to 500°C at 445.6 MPa. The cold pressing technique was performed at 909 MPa in room temperature. By increasing the Al content to 10 wt. % in the base Fe-based matrix, the hardness was decreased from 780 to 690 MPa and the radial strength was decreased from 380 to 202 MPa with reductions of 11.5% and 40%, respectively. Improvement of the wear resistance with the increase addition of the Al powder to the Fe matrix up to 5 times was achieved compared to the alloy without Al addition for different wear parameters namely; wear time and sliding speed.

We discuss the electrodeposition of two-dimensional (2D) Pt-nanostructures on HOPG achieved under constant applied potential versus a Pt counter electrode (Eappl = ca. - 2.2 V vs RHE). The deposition conditions are discussed in terms of the electrochemical behavior of the electrodeposition precursor (H2PtCl6). We performed cyclic voltammetry (CV) of the electrochemical Pt deposit on HOPG and on Pt substrates to study the relevant phenomena that affect the morphology of Pt deposition. Under conditions where the Pt deposition occurs and H2 evolution is occurring at the diffusion-limited rate (- 0.3 V vs RHE), Pt forms larger structures on the surface of HOPG, and the electrodeposition of Pt is not limited by diffusion. This indicates the need for large overpotentials to direct the 2D growth of Pt. Investigation of the possible effect of Cl- showed that Cl- deposits on the surface of Pt at low overpotentials, but strips from the surface at potentials more positive than the electrodeposition potential. The CV of Pt on HOPG is a strong function of the nature of the surface. We propose that during immersion of HOPG in the electrodeposition solution (3 mM H2PtCl6, 0.5 M NaCl, pH 2.3) Pt islands are formed spontaneously, and these islands drive the growth of the 2D nanostructures.

Byers Peninsula is considered one of the largest ice-free areas in Maritime Antarctica. Since 2006, the Spanish Polar Program has taken part in a large number of environmental studies involving effects of climate changes in lives cycles, limnology and microbiology. Soils from maritime Antarctica are generally weakly developed and have chemical, physical and morphological characteristics strongly influenced by the parent material. However, biological activity during the short Antarctic summer promotes intense transference of nutrients and organic matter in areas occupied by different species of birds and marine mammals. To mapping and monitoring those areas with high biological occupation, could be very useful to have models of edaphic properties prepared from satellite images. In this approach, Deep Learning and Linear Regression models of soil properties and spectral indexes as explicative variables were performed. We training models of soil properties closely related to biological activity such as Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) and the iron fraction associated with organic matter (Fe). We tested the best approach to model the spatial distribution of DOC, Fe and pH by training models of Linear Regression and Deep Learning over Sentinel2 and WorldView2 images. The most robust models were used to track possible areas with ornithogenic soils as well as areas of the Byers Peninsula that could support the highest biological development.

Battlefield miracle stories are not rare. This paper suggests a typology of battlefield miracles. From this perspective it asks what sort of miracles can we expect to see in battle and when can we expect to see them? After presenting the main points of discussion regarding miracles, it proposes a range of categories for military miracles (miracles as acts that violate nature versus miracles as everyday acts; those involving the divine versus occurrences not requiring the presence of a heavenly emissary; acts of benevolence versus acts with no such intent; having a clear purpose versus acts where there is disagreement regarding interpretation). After discussing these categories, the articles uses Operation Cast Lead (December 2008–January 2009) as a case study to test the typology suggested above. Since this field is underdeveloped, this paper sets out to initiate a conversation on battlefield miracles, with hope that future studies will build upon it.

The nucleation of voids in alpha iron and the influence of carbon were investigated through a combination of rate theory and nucleation theory calculations. The steady rates of void nucleation exhibit high sensitivity to carbon. Even a seemingly negligible carbon concentration, as low as a few atomic parts per million (appm), can dramatically reduce the nucleation rates and narrow the temperature window for nucleation. This study highlights the challenges in certifying and qualifying nuclear materials for use in reactor environments. It emphasizes the necessity for precise control of impurity levels during materials processing and stringent requirements for irradiation testing, which are susceptible to contamination. Furthermore, the study provides an explanation for the significant data scattering observed in void swelling behaviors as reported in the literature.

Iron deficiency in the fetal and neonatal period (perinatal iron deficiency) bodes poorly to neuro-development. Given its common occurrence and the negative impact on brain development, a screening and treatment strategy that is focused on optimizing brain development in perinatal iron deficiency is necessary. Pediatric societies currently recommend a universal iron supple-mentation strategy for full-term and preterm infants that does not consider individual variation in the body iron status and could lead to under-treatment or over-treatment. Moreover, the focus is on hematological normalcy and not optimal brain development. Several serum iron indices and hematological parameters in the perinatal period are associated with risk of abnormal neurodevelopment, suggesting their potential use as biomarkers for screening and monitoring treatment in infants at risk for perinatal iron deficiency. A biomarker-based screening and treatment strategy that is focused on optimizing brain development will likely improve outcome in perinatal iron deficiency.

Additive Manufacturing and nanotechnology have been used as basic tools for the manufacture of nanostructured parts with magnetic properties to expand the variety of applications in additive processes by tank photopolymerization. Magnetic cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) and barium ferrite (BaFe12O19) nanoparticles with the size distribution of average value DTEM of 12 ± 2.95 nm and 37 ± 12.78 nm, respectively were generat-ed by hydroxide precipitation method. The dispersion of the nanoparticles on commercial resins (Anycubic Green and IRIX White resin) was obtained by mechanochemical reactions carried out in an agate mortar for 20 minutes, at room temperature and with limited exposure to light. The product of each reaction was placed in amber vials, also being kept in a box, to avoid contact with light. The photopolymerization process was carried out only at low concentrations (w/w % nanoparticles/resin) since, at high concentrations, there is no for-mation of pieces due to the high refractive index of ferrites. Raman shift spectroscopy of the final pieces showed that they contain the magnetic nanoparticles, with no apparent chemical changes. The EPR results of the pieces maintain the magnetic properties and apparently, they are not modified during the photopolymer-ization. Although significant differences were found in the dispersion process of the nanoparticles in each piece, we determined that the photopolymerization did not influence the structure and superparamagnetic behavior of ferrite nanoparticles during processing, and the magnetic properties were successfully transferred to the final 3D-printed magnetic obtained piece.

Background: Iron chelation medications (desferoxamine, desferasirox, desferiprone) are used to manage iron overload. These medications are partially excreted via the kidneys, desferoxamine and desferiprone excretes primarily in the urine, and desferasirox had about 8% excreted in the urine. Their use in severe kidney disease and dialysis patients is caution as “avoided” concerning adverse effects; however, there are reports safe use. This manuscript reviews the literature in this population. Data Sources: Pubmed: desferasirox, deferiprone, deferoxamine, kidney disease, ESKD, Dialysis. Case reports and case series that described experiences with using iron chelation medications in ESKD patients are included. Data also gathered from reading-related sources. Results: This is a review of desferoxamine, desferasirox, and deferiprone use in kidney disease from 1976 to the present time. Table 1 provides a summary of findings. These are mostly reports and brief descriptions of the experiences used in severe kidney disease and dialysis, but lack of randomized control trials and small number of participants. Conclusions: Iron chelation medications are important for treating iron overload but concerns with adverse effects. Due to limited medications available to treat iron overload in patients with severe kidney disease, their safe use has been reporting in the literature. This is an area that warrants further research.

Introduction: In the recent years alternate day dosing has been recommended in iron deficieny treatment. The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy and side effects of oral iron treatments given daily 1x1, alternate day 1x1 and 2x1 alternate day dosing in iron deficieny anemia patients. Methods: A total of 52 patients with a diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia with serum ferritin level of 25 µg/L or less were included in this retrospective study. Statistical analyzes were done with SPSS V.25. Results: The patients included in our study were between the ages of 18-51. All of the patients included in the study were female. A statistically significant increase was found between 0-14 days(p<0.001), 14-28 days(p<0.001) and 0-28 days(p<0.001) hemoglobin values in all patients. There was no statistically significant difference between 0-14 days (p=0.397) and 0-28 days(p=0.310) ferritin values in all patients. A statistically significant difference was found between 14-28 days(p<0.001) ferritin values. When the rate of change of hemoglobin and ferritin values between the groups was compared and no statistically significant difference was observed between the groups. The rate of change of ferritin values for 14-28 days was significant (p=0.012). There was no significant difference in the frequency of symptoms in the 14th day and 28th day controls for each group (p>0.05). The incidence of metallic taste and bloating symptoms was found to be statistically significant in the third control in the group with 2x1 drug use alternate day (p=0.094). Discussion: The only difference in efficacy was observed in ferritin values between 14th and 28th days. The increase in ferritin values was higher in the group that used 1x1 oral iron every day. However, since no difference was observed between the groups in terms of ferritin and hemoglobin values on days 0 and 28, all three groups were considered equally efficient. Side effects were mainly gastrointestinal side effects. Since the group that received 2x1 oral treatment alternate day had a statistically significantly higher rate of side effects, the patients’ treatment tolerance will be lower compared to the other groups. In conlusion, there is no difference in efficacy and side effects between the patient groups receiving 1x1 daily and 1x1 alternate day oral iron therapy, so 1x1 use alternate day is the most appropriate treatment method for oral iron therapy in terms of patient tolerance, adherence to treatment and pharmacoeconomics.

Legumes are important sources of nitrogen and, therefore, the nitrogen fixing ability of the legume-rhizobia symbiosis has great potential to improve crop yields or reduce nitrogen fertilizer use. Unfortunately, legumes face serious and increasing threats of both biotic and abiotic stresses among which Fe-deficiency has been increased from past years. Fe nutrient deficiency limits pulse production and nitrogen fixation by specifically affecting any one of the four phases of legume-rhizobium symbiosis. Although Fe in soil is often present in adequate quantities, it is mainly present in insoluble Fe-(III) precipitates, limiting its uptake and utilization. The present review has focused on the iron nutrition and deficiency and probable uptake, transport and metabolism in legumes.