Simplified synthesis
A novel iron catalyst has been discovered to simplify and streamline organic chemical synthesis, reducing costs and waste. This breakthrough could have huge implications for industries such as pharmaceuticals and petrochemicals.
Iron
Articles tagged with Iron
A lawn is better than fertilizer for growing healthy blueberries
Researchers have discovered that growing grasses alongside blueberry plants corrects iron deficiency, leading to increased antioxidant content and improved berry quantity. Intercropping with grass species has been shown to provide a natural source of iron chelators, comparable to synthetic treatments.
Scientists go to extremes to reveal make-up of Earth's core
New insights into Earth's core chemical make-up were gained through extreme laboratory experiments, revealing the presence of silicon alongside iron and nickel. The discovery supports existing theories on planet formation driven by meteorite interactions, shedding light on the Earth's 4.5 billion-year-old history.
Iron measurements with MRI reveal stroke's impact on brain
A new MRI method measures iron content to monitor recovery from stroke-related damage and track neurodegeneration in the substantia nigra. Higher iron levels are associated with worse long-term outcomes and potential therapies may slow or stop degeneration.
Stressing and straining: Geochemists answer fundamental question of mineral reactions
Researchers studied mineral reactions using a technique called coherent diffraction imaging, revealing the formation of hematite and strain within iron oxide particles. The findings provide new insights into how minerals react in different conditions, with implications for understanding natural systems.
A water-splitting catalyst unlike any other
Scientists have discovered a new iron-nickel catalyst that surpasses the performance of existing nickel-iron oxide catalysts in oxygen evolution reactions. The unconventional catalyst produces an efficient electrolyzer with reduced voltage requirements.
Thirty years of fast food: Greater variety, but more salt, larger portions, and added calories
A new study found that fast food offerings have become more diverse, but also more calorie-dense and salty over the past 30 years. The analysis of 10 popular US fast-food restaurants reveals that portion sizes have increased significantly, contributing to a worsening obesity epidemic.
Pioneering study could offer protection to patients with rare genetic disease
Researchers have developed a molecule that could enhance sun cream's protective effect against UVA rays, potentially benefiting patients with Friedreich's Ataxia and other mitochondrial disorders. The study found that skin cells from FA patients are up to 10 times more sensitive to UVA damage.
Study: Adolescent female blood donors at risk for iron deficiency and associated anemia
A new study found that adolescent female blood donors are more likely to have low iron stores and iron deficiency anemia. The researchers propose various measures to help this vulnerable population, including oral iron supplementation and increasing the minimum time interval between donations.
URI study shows benefits of delayed cord clamping in healthy babies
A new University of Rhode Island nursing study found that delayed cord clamping in healthy infants increases iron stores and brain myelin, leading to improved early-life functional development. The study, published in the Journal of Pediatrics, challenges the practice of immediate cord clamping.
Mixed results on early human testing of iron chelation after brain bleed
A recent study on the treatment of brain bleeds found that a drug called deferoxamine improved recovery and neurological function in patients who received intermediate doses of the medication. However, the primary results showed no significant improvement at three months after the bleeding event, but some benefits were observed at six ...
Rust never sleeps
Researchers at PNNL use APT to trace oxidation-reduction reactions and create the first 3D atomic maps of iron oxide crystals. These 'atomic maps' reveal a dynamic iron cycle, showing iron atoms filling in potholes on crystal surfaces and driving growth.
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2019
How plants cope with iron deficiency
Plant biologists at HHU and WWU have discovered a key mechanism that enables plants to regulate their responses to iron deficiency, ultimately controlling iron uptake in roots and seed storage. This finding has significant implications for understanding plant biology and agricultural research.
Cassava high in iron and zinc could improve diets and health in west Africa
Researchers developed cassava with significantly higher iron and zinc concentrations through genetic modification, which can improve diets and health in West Africa. The 'biofortified' cassava retains mineral levels after processing and cooking, providing a nutritionally available source of essential micronutrients.
Stars shrouded in iron dust
A study discovered a group of massive stars with high iron dust and low metal content in the Large Magellanic Cloud. The stars have unique spectral properties, and their environment allows for the formation of large quantities of iron dust.
SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 23, 2019
Marine bacterium sheds light on control of toxic metals
A marine bacterium has discovered a novel ferritin mechanism to control toxic metals, producing an enhanced ability to detoxify reactive oxygen species. This process is unique among known ferritins and holds promise for future engineered biocatalysts in drug development.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2019
Exploring the effects of ocean acidification on iron for phytoplankton in North Pacific
The study examines how ocean acidification affects iron availability to phytoplankton, a critical nutrient for marine productivity. Researchers aim to develop proxies for quantifying iron availability under present and future ocean acidification conditions.
Australia leads international trials targeting iron deficiency in mothers and babies
The study will investigate the impacts of iron deficiency on infant brain development and physical growth. The trials aim to recruit over 6000 women and children in developing countries.
Huge reserves of iron in Western Siberia might originate from under an ancient sea
Researchers from Tomsk Polytechnic University propose a new origin for the Bakchar deposit, suggesting that hydrothermal fluids and brine migration through marine sediments could be the source of its massive iron reserves. The study challenges the long-held theory that iron came from eroded mountainous areas.
Research unlocks secrets of iron storage in algae
Researchers discovered that diatoms storing iron through ferritin are more resilient to iron shortages, outcompeting others in shifting ocean conditions. This finding has significant implications for marine food webs and large ocean cycles.
SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 12, 2018
MSMU scientists discovered the role of iron in programmed cell death
Iron plays a significant role in ferroptosis, a type of programmed cell death, by inducing lipid oxidation and ROS formation. A recent review by MSMU scientists reveals that glutathione peroxidase 4 reduction is the primary mechanism driving this process.
Iron-rich lamellae in the semiconductor
Scientists at HZDR created an iron-rich compound in a semiconductor that became magnetic due to the formation of two-dimensional lamellae. This unusual structure could help understand superconductors and optimize their properties.
Magnetic evidence of oxygen in a paleolake
Scientists have found magnetic evidence of oxygenation in a paleolake, suggesting that most water column and history contained oxygen. The study analyzed drill cores from the Nonesuch Formation, revealing a gradient of oxygenation according to water depth.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 3, 2018
Brilliant iron molecule could provide cheaper solar energy
Researchers have created an iron molecule that can function as a photocatalyst to produce fuel and in solar cells to produce electricity. The iron molecule has properties largely as good as those of the best noble metals, making it a potential cheaper alternative for solar energy production.
A new lead on a 50-year-old radiation damage mystery
A simulation by researchers at the University of Michigan and others revealed that shockwaves can create loops in iron, which can strengthen or weaken steel depending on their placement. The discovery could help engineers design better radiation-resistant steel for reactors and potentially lead to stronger steel overall.
Transition metal complexes: Mixed works better
Scientists at BESSY II discovered that mixed iron complexes can convert sunlight into electricity by releasing charge carriers. The findings suggest a new direction for developing inexpensive transition-metal complexes suitable for use in solar cells.
SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateNov 15, 2018
Stripping the linchpins from the life-making machine reaffirms its seminal evolution
Researchers replace essential magnesium ions in the translational system with iron and manganese, revealing its robustness under primordial conditions. The experiment's success corroborates the translational system's place at the earliest foundations of life on Earth.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 2018
Biomimetics: The chemical tricks of our blood
Researchers have created phthalocyanines with a ring structure resembling that of hemoglobin or chlorophyll, which can be switched into different states with green light, affecting their chemical behavior. This discovery opens up new avenues for biomimetics and the development of novel molecules optimized for nature-specific applications.
ASU geoscientists discover an overlooked source for Earth's water
A team of Arizona State University geoscientists has found a new source of water on Earth, tracing it back to the formation of our planet. They discovered that the solar nebula, the gases and dust out of which the Sun and planets formed, contained hydrogen and oxygen, which could have supplied the origin of Earth's global ocean.
Some planetary systems just aren't into heavy metal
Researchers at Yale and the Flatiron Institute found that compact, multiple-planet systems are more likely to form around stars with lower amounts of heavy elements. This discovery suggests new insights into the formation of smaller planets and their potential for supporting life.
New agent against anthrax
A new agent has been developed to combat anthrax by reprogramming the human immune system's siderocalin protein to neutralize a special iron complexing agent produced by the bacterium. This approach is expected to provide an effective treatment against the life-threatening infection.
SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 22, 2018
Wheat that pumps iron, naturally
Researchers successfully biofortified wheat to naturally increase its iron content, a process that could help address global iron deficiency. The breeding lines showed no significant decrease in grain yield, making it a promising solution for improving nutrition without compromising farmers' profits.
Chemists discover unexpected enzyme structure
Researchers at MIT have discovered a unique aspect of the enzyme carbon monoxide dehydrogenase, which converts carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide. The C-cluster's structure can change its configuration in response to oxygen exposure, providing a safety net for the metal atoms.
How lactoferrin clamps down on free roaming iron ions to stop nefarious effects on cells
A new study elucidates the structure of lactoferrin, a protein that binds tightly to free iron ions to prevent damage to proteins and DNA. The researchers discovered that an amino acid plays a key role in the conformation stability of the protein.
Mysterious 'lunar swirls' point to moon's volcanic, magnetic past
Researchers from Rutgers University discovered that lunar swirls are produced by strongly magnetized lava flows, challenging the existing understanding of the moon's geology. The study provides new insights into the moon's ancient volcanic activity and internally generated magnetic field.
As CO2 levels climb, millions at risk of nutritional deficiencies
A new study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health warns that high CO2 levels could lead to widespread nutritional deficiencies, affecting 1.9% of the global population by 2050. The research estimates that 175 million people will become zinc deficient and 122 million will become protein deficient due to lower crop yields.
Getting a charge out of MOFs
A team of researchers developed an electrically conductive MOF that conducts electricity up to 10,000 times better than before, using a potassium chemical mix to boost conductivity. The new material has high electron mobility and can be used in various applications including batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells.
The unexpected upside of E. coli
A new study reveals that E. coli produces a compound called enterobactin, which helps cells absorb iron, benefiting the host in the process. This discovery could lead to more effective therapies for iron deficiency anemia, impacting over 1 billion people worldwide.
Stars memorize rebirth of our home galaxy
Calculations by Masafumi Noguchi confirm two-stage formation of Milky Way stars, with iron-rich stars forming after a gap in star birth. This discovery sheds light on the galaxy's dramatic history and provides insights into its formation.
How an herbivore hijacks a nutrient uptake strategy of its host plant
The study reveals that the rootworm uses specific iron complexes formed at the root surface when benzoxazinoids bind to iron to guide itself to nutrient-rich crown roots. This allows the insect to severely damage maize plants and undermine plant breeders' efforts to control it.
Iron and titanium in the atmosphere of an exoplanet
Astronomers have detected iron and titanium vapors in the atmosphere of KELT-9b, an ultra-hot Jupiter, using spectroscopy. The high temperatures break apart molecules, making these atomic species visible.
In neutron stars, protons may do the heavy lifting
Researchers found that a small fraction of protons in neutron-dense objects significantly impact their stiffness, mass-to-size ratio, and cooling process. Protons are believed to determine several properties of the star due to their high energy content.
Scientists propose a new lead for Alzheimer's research
A University of Adelaide-led team suggests a potential link between iron handling and rare gene mutations causing Alzheimer's disease. The theory proposes that abnormalities in how neurons handle iron could result in the devastating early onset form of the disease.
Bribing bacteria to play nicely is good for everyone
Researchers find that giving mice dietary iron supplements enables them to survive a normally lethal bacterial infection and results in later generations of bacteria being less virulent. The approach promotes the health of the host, taming the behavior of the bacteria.
Brain iron levels may predict multiple sclerosis disabilities
A new MRI technique monitors brain iron levels to identify MS patients at higher risk of developing physical disability. Iron depletion or increase in certain brain structures is associated with longer disease duration and higher disability degree.
Study finds potential link between alcohol and death rates
A study published in Clinical Nutrition found that heavy drinking causes uncontrolled iron absorption, leading to health issues like heart attacks and liver disease. Iron loading was significantly higher in drinkers than non-drinkers, predicting increased mortality rates.
Scientists discover Earth's youngest banded iron formation in western China
The discovery of a Cambrian-age banded iron formation in western China pushes back the timeline for iron-rich seawater conditions by millions of years. This finding supports the presence of oxygen-enriched environments, which were previously believed to limit complex life evolution.
Rocky planet neighbor looks familiar, but is not Earth's twin
Researchers have determined the detailed chemical abundances of Ross 128, a red dwarf star that hosts an exoplanet similar to our Solar System's Jupiter. This helps estimate the makeup of Ross 128 b, indicating it should be rocky with a temperate climate.
Gulf Stream eddies as a source of iron
Researchers from ETH Zurich have found that cold, iron-rich seawater from the North American continental slope is captured by meanders of the Gulf Stream and carried out to the North Atlantic Gyre, enriching it with iron. The study suggests that this source may deliver up to 15% of the iron delivered by Saharan dust.
Alzheimer's breakthrough: Brain metals that may drive disease progression revealed
Researchers identify chemically reduced iron species in brains affected by Alzheimer's, including a magnetic iron oxide called magnetite, which may contribute to disease toxicity. The study suggests that understanding these metals could lead to more effective therapies for Alzheimer's disease.
Sodium- and potassium-based batteries hold promise for cheap energy storage
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology found that sodium- and potassium-ion batteries can be more stable and have a longer life than previously thought. The study suggests that these batteries could be used in large-scale energy storage systems, such as smart grids, due to their potential for cost-effectiveness.
Europium points to new suspect in continental mystery
Researchers from Rice University found that garnet steals the most iron from continents, contradicting 40-plus years of geophysical thinking. This discovery has weighty implications for understanding Earth's atmosphere and potentially Mars' rusty landscape.
Scientists' discovery in Yellowstone 'extremely relevant' to origin of life
Researchers found a new archetype of microbes living in Yellowstone National Park's thermal features that sheds light on the origin of life and the importance of iron in early Earth. The discovery is critical to understanding the universal tree of life and evolutionary history of the Earth.
Purdue archaeologists on ancient horse find in Nile River Valley
A well-preserved horse burial at Tombos has provided new insights into the social significance of equids in the Nile Valley during the Third Intermediate Period. The discovery suggests that horses represented symbols of a larger social, political and economic movement in ancient Nubian culture.
Lavas in the lab could lead miners to new iron ore deposits
Geologists from KU Leuven have found that magmas split into two separate liquids under specific conditions, leading to the formation of Kiruna-type iron ore deposits. These discoveries may help identify new iron ore deposits globally.
Certain iron supplements may influence the development of colon cancer
Two common iron compounds, ferric citrate and ferric EDTA, have been shown to increase the formation of a known biomarker for cancer, amphiregulin. This is the case even at low doses. The study suggests that these iron supplements may be carcinogenic.
Scientists find excess mitochondrial iron, Huntington's disease link
Researchers found mice engineered with Huntington's disease have excessive mitochondrial iron accumulation, leading to dysfunction and neuronal death. This study identifies a pathway for the neurodegenerative disease and has implications for related disorders like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Mantle minerals offer clues to deep Earth's composition
Scientists used lab-cooked recipes to model mantle minerals, providing clear measurements of density, compressibility and electronic conductivity. This study will help scientists interpret seismic waves and accurately map the amount of iron in the mantle.
UMass Amherst biologist will study plants' iron regulating system
Elsbeth Walker and her team will investigate how plants control iron levels, using sophisticated techniques to detect and test for iron signaling mechanisms. The research aims to understand how plants regulate iron uptake, with potential applications in breeding cereals that are rich in bioavailable iron.
NIH study may help explain why iron can worsen malaria infection
A NIH study found that extra iron interferes with ferroportin, a protein preventing toxic iron buildup and protecting red blood cells against malaria. The researchers also identified a mutant form of ferroportin, Q248H, which appears to protect against malaria in African populations.
SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalScience·DateMar 29, 2018