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The battle for iron

Scientists at EMBL and Heidelberg University Clinic have discovered a new way to starve pathogens of iron, using the immune system's TLR2 and TLR6 molecules. This finding offers an alternative approach to treatments for anaemia of chronic disease, which affects chronically ill patients.

Study finds deep ocean is source of dissolved iron in Central Pacific

A new study by scientists at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution reveals that the deep ocean is a major source of dissolved iron in the central Pacific Ocean. The research found that hydrothermal vents and sediments thousands of meters below the sea surface are the primary sources of iron, contradicting previous assumptions.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2015

Death of a dynamo -- A hard drive from space

Researchers capture asteroid magnetic field moments, revealing extended lifetimes and creating mechanisms similar to the Earth's own magnetic field. Ancient meteorites provide a cosmic archaeological mission, shedding light on the magnetic history of asteroids and their impact on the Earth's core future.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateJan 21, 2015

Gift-wrapped gas molecules

Researchers have successfully created metal-organic frameworks that can stably store and slowly release nitric oxide, a key player in biological signaling pathways. This breakthrough could lead to new approaches for treating infections and heart conditions, as well as potential applications in medical therapies.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateDec 30, 2014

The finer details of rust

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have redefined the atomic structure of magnetite, a crucial component in electronic devices and medical applications. The study reveals that the surface of magnetite is governed by missing iron atoms, leading to an efficient catalyst for chemical reactions.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience·DateDec 4, 2014

Pica in pregnant teens linked to low iron

A study of 158 pregnant teenagers found nearly half engaged in pica behaviors, such as consuming ice and starches, which are also associated with lower iron levels. This can lead to anemia, premature births, and low birth weights, posing a significant risk to infant mortality rates.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateAug 20, 2014

Smart bacteria help each other survive

Researchers at Lund University discovered how Haemophilus influenzae bacteria can share iron with each other, increasing their chances of survival and potentially creating new vaccine targets. This interaction has significant implications for the development of vaccines and treatments for respiratory infections.

SourceLund University·JournalInternational Journal of Medical Microbiology·DateAug 5, 2014

Ironing out details of the carbon cycle

Scientists have found that the largest source of iron in the North Atlantic comes from dust blowing in from the Sahara desert, but other sources such as sediments also play a significant role. This discovery has important implications for understanding the carbon cycle and past climate change.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalNature·DateJul 3, 2014

With 'ribbons' of graphene, width matters

A team of researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has developed a method to produce graphene ribbons with widths as low as three nanometers, transforming them into semiconductors with tunable electrical properties. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of nano-devices and atomic-scale components made from graphene.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin - Milwaukee·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 3, 2014

Nanoscale composites improve MRI

Researchers have created composite particles that can be injected into patients and guided by magnetic fields, allowing for improved detection of diseases. The nanoconstructs, made up of thousands of iron oxide particles, can be heated to kill malignant tissues or trigger the release of drugs at specific sites.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 16, 2014

Grain legume crops sustainable, nutritious

A recent study reveals that grain legume crops are a valuable source of essential micronutrients, including iron, zinc, selenium, magnesium, manganese, copper, and nickel. The research found that these crops can provide up to 100% of the recommended daily allowance for certain micronutrients per serving.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateJun 9, 2014