Structures and stability of I2 and ICl complexes with pyridine: Ab initio and DFT study

Theoretical investigation of thermodynamic stability and bonding features of possible isomers of the molecular and ionic complexes of pyridine with molecular iodine and iodine monochloride IX (X = I,Cl) is presented. M06-2X DFT functional is found to provide bond distances and dissociation energies which are close to those obtained at high-level ab initio CCSD(T)/aug-cc-pvtz//CCSD/aug-cc-pvtz benchmark computations for the most stable isomers, formed via donation of a lone pair of nitrogen atom of pyridine to the iodine atom. These isomers are by 23-33 kJ mol-1 (in case of I2) and by 39-56 kJ mol-1 (in case of ICl) more stable than other molecular complexes. T-shaped π-σ* bonded isomers turn out to be energetically comparable with van der Waals bound compounds. Among the ionic isomers, structures featuring [IPy2]+ cation with I3 - or ICl2 - counterions are more stable. Oligomerization favors ionic isomers starting from the tetrameric clusters of the composition (IX)4Py4.

Does iodine fortification affect the risk of atrial fibrillation in incident hyperthyroidism? A national register-based cohort

OBJECTIVE

Iodine fortification (IF) induces an initial increase followed by a decrease in the incidence of hyperthyroidism in the general population. Within the population of hyperthyroid patients, the sex-, age- and subtype distribution changes after IF. The risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) in hyperthyroid patients may be influenced by these factors. Therefore, we aimed to examine how the association between incident hyperthyroidism and AF was affected by IF increasing the population iodine intake from moderate-mild iodine deficiency to low adequacy. DESIGN, PATIENTS AND MEASUREMENTS: Incident hyperthyroid patients were included at the date of first inpatient or outpatient diagnosis, and AF diagnoses within 3 months before to 6 months after the index date were identified in Danish nationwide registers, 1997-2018. The relative risk (RR) of AF each calendar year (reference: 1997; IF introduced: 2000) was analyzed in Poisson regression models adjusted for age, sex, educational level, geographic region, and comorbidities.

RESULTS

Overall, in 62,201 patients with incident hyperthyroidism 7.9% were diagnosed with AF. There was a minor nonsignificantly increased risk of AF during the first years after IF followed by a gradual decrease to RR 0.76 (0.62-0.94) in 2017. There were no statistically significant differences in the development in the risk of AF by sex, age group, or geographic region.

CONCLUSIONS

Results indicate that IF may reduce the risk of concomitant AF in hyperthyroid patients. If these results are confirmed, IF may not only reduce the population incidence of hyperthyroidism but also reduce the burden of morbidity in the remaining hyperthyroid patients.

Enhancement of in vitro antibacterial activity and bioactivity of iodine-loaded titanium by micro-scale regulation using mixed-acid treatment

Postoperative infection and subsequent device loss are serious complications in the use of titanium dental implants and plates for jawbone reconstruction. We have previously reported that NaOH-CaCl2 -thermal-ICl3 -treated titanium (NaCaThIo) has a nano-scale surface and exhibits antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The present study examined the surface properties of mixed-acid treated and then iodine-treated titanium (MA-NaCaThIo), and evaluated oral antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity compared with the results obtained with NaCaThIo. MA-NaCaThIo formed a surface layer with a nano-scale network structure having microscale irregularities, and both the thickness of the surface layer (1.49 ± 0.16 μm) and the average surface roughness (0.35 ± 0.03 μm) were significantly higher than those of NaCaThIo. Furthermore, MA-NaCaThIo maintained high hydrophilicity with a contact angle of 7.5 ± 1.7° even after 4 weeks, as well as improved apatite formation, iodine ion release, and antibacterial activity against Prevotella intermedia compared to NaCaThIo. Cell culture test revealed that MA-NaCaThIo exhibited no cytotoxicity against MG-63 and Vero cells, while increased cell proliferation, ALP activity and mineralization of MG-63 compared to NaCaThIo. This treated titanium is expected to be useful for the development of next-generation titanium devices having both bone-bonding and antibacterial properties.

Prevalence of high neonatal thyroid stimulating hormone levels as an indicator of iodine deficiency in the province of La Pampa: An epidemiological analysis

Introduction. Iodine plays a key role in human metabolism, growth, and development. During pregnancy and childhood, the demand for this micronutrient increases notably. Increased neonatal thyroid stimulating hormone (nTSH) levels, defined as nTSH ≥ 5 mIU/L, are a marker of iodine deficiency in a population if its prevalence is higher than 3%. Objective. To establish the prevalence of nTSH ≥ 5 in La Pampa in the 2021-2022 period, analyze its correlation with different variables, and compare it with data from a historical cohort. Population and methods. Cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study in a population of newborn infants born in the 5 health regions of the province of La Pampa in 2021 and 2022. Results. Of the 5778 assessed newborn infants, 9.6% had nTSH levels ≥ 5 mIU/L. It was reported that 70.4% of these measurements were done after the third day of life. No significant differences were observed in the frequency of high nTSH levels by year of birth, birth weight, or days until sample collection. A higher prevalence was observed among male infants (10.6% versus 8.5%; p = 0.007) and term infants (9.8% versus 6.6%; p = 0.02). The prevalence of high TSH levels was superior to that observed in the 2001-2002 cohort. Conclusions. The prevalence of high nTSH levels in La Pampa during 2021 and 2022 was 9.6%, suggesting the presence of mild iodine deficiency in the population of this province, higher that what had been reported 2 decades ago.

Stability of Iodine Species Trapped in Titanium-Based MOFs: MIL-125 and MIL-125_NH2

Two titanium-based MOFs MIL-125 and MIL-125_NH2 are synthesized and characterized using high-temperature powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), N2 sorption, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). Stable up to 300 °C, both compounds exhibited similar specific surface areas (SSA) values (1207 and 1099 m2 g-1 for MIL-125 and MIL-125_NH2, respectively). EPR signals of Ti3+ are observed in both, whith MIL-125_NH2 also showing ─NH2 ●+ signatures. Both MOFs efficiently adsorbed iodine in continuous gas flow over five days, with MIL-125 trapping 1.9 g.g-1 and MIL-125_NH2 trapping 1.6 g.g-1. MIL-125_NH2 exhibited faster adsorption kinetics due to its smaller band gap (2.5 against 3.6 eV). In situ Raman spectroscopy conducted during iodine adsorption revealed signal evolution from "free" I2 to "perturbed" I2, and I3 -. TGA and in situ Raman desorption experiments showed that ─NH2 groups improved the stabilization of I3 - due to an electrostatic interaction with NH2 ●+BDC radicals. The Albery model indicated longer lifetimes for iodine desorption in I2@MIL-125_NH2, attributed to a rate-limiting step due to stronger interaction between the anionic iodine species and the ─NH2 ●+ radicals. This study underscores how MOFs with efficient charge separation and hole-stabilizer functional groups enhance iodine stability at higher temperatures.

Synthesis of [1]Benzothieno[3,2-b][1]benzothiophenes through Iodine-Mediated Sulfur Insertion Reaction

[1]Benzothieno[3,2-b][1]benzothiophenes (BTBTs) are important molecules that have been extensively studied as high-performance organic field-effect transistors (OFETs). Therefore, it is important to develop a simple synthetic method for these molecules. In this paper, a synthetic method to obtain the BTBTs from 2-arylbenzo[b]thiophenes and elemental sulfur, in which two C-S bonds are formed at once, is described. In this method, molecular iodine plays a very important role as an additive. The role of iodine is discussed in the presumed reaction pathways.

Influence of Lattice Defects on trans-Oligoene Substructure Formation in Graphene

The photochemical reaction of iodine and graphene induces strong new Raman modes due to the formation of trans-oligoene substructures in graphene domains. This unique reactivity was demonstrated before on defect-free graphene, however leaving the influence of e.g. carbon vacancies, unexplored. Here, we investigate the photochemical reaction applied on graphene with varying average distances of lattice defects and statistically analyze the characteristic Raman modes which develop with the iodination reaction. We show that the iodination reaction does not lead to Raman-active defects and thus, the newly formed trans-oligoene substructures do not contribute to the D-mode of graphene. A statistical analysis reveals the correlation between the average distance of lattice defects and the intensity of the v1-mode. For defective graphene with average defect distances below ~1 nm no new Raman modes evolve, which is the lower limit of the substructure size probed at 532 nm and explains why this observation was not possible before using common graphene oxide as graphene source.

Suppressing the Shuttle Effect of Aqueous Zinc-Iodine Batteries: Progress and Prospects

Aqueous zinc-iodine batteries are considered to be one of the most promising devices for future electrical energy storage due to their low cost, high safety, high theoretical specific capacity, and multivalent properties. However, the shuttle effect currently faced by zinc-iodine batteries causes the loss of cathode active material and corrosion of the zinc anodes, limiting the large-scale application of zinc-iodine batteries. In this paper, the electrochemical processes of iodine conversion and the zinc anode, as well as the induced mechanism of the shuttle effect, are introduced from the basic configuration of the aqueous zinc-iodine battery. Then, the inhibition strategy of the shuttle effect is summarized from four aspects: the design of cathode materials, electrolyte regulation, the modification of the separator, and anode protection. Finally, the current status of aqueous zinc-iodine batteries is analyzed and recommendations and perspectives are presented. This review is expected to deepen the understanding of aqueous zinc-iodide batteries and is expected to guide the design of high-performance aqueous zinc-iodide batteries.

Climate changes affecting global iodine status

Global warming is now universally acknowledged as being responsible for dramatic climate changes with rising sea levels, unprecedented temperatures, resulting fires and threatened widespread species loss. While these effects are extremely damaging, threatening the future of life on our planet, one unexpected and paradoxically beneficial consequence could be a significant contribution to global iodine supply. Climate change and associated global warming are not the primary causes of increased iodine supply, which results from the reaction of ozone (O3) arising from both natural and anthropogenic pollution sources with iodide (I-) present in the oceans and in seaweeds (macro- and microalgae) in coastal waters, producing gaseous iodine (I2). The reaction serves as negative feedback, serving a dual purpose, both diminishing ozone pollution in the lower atmosphere and thereby increasing I2. The potential of this I2 to significantly contribute to human iodine intake is examined in the context of I2 released in a seaweed-abundant coastal area. The bioavailability of the generated I2 offers a long-term possibility of increasing global iodine status and thereby promoting thyroidal health. It is hoped that highlighting possible changes in iodine bioavailability might encourage the health community to address this issue.

Ionic Polyimine-Based Composite Membrane with Inductive and Complexation Synergistic Effects for Sensitive and On-Site Fluorescent Detection of Volatile Iodine

Along with the development of nuclear power, concerns about radioactive emissions and the potential for nuclear leakage have been widely raised, particularly of harmful iodine isotopes. However, as a significant component of nuclear air waste, the enrichment and detection of air-dispersed gaseous iodine remain a challenge. In this work, it is focused on developing an attraction-immobilization-detection strategy-based fluorescence method for the on-site detection of volatile iodine, by employing a photoluminescent ionic polyimine network-polyvinylpyrrolidone (IPIN-PVP) composite membrane. This strategy synergizes ion-induced dipole interactions from IPIN and complexation effects from PVP, allowing effective iodine enrichment and immobilization. As a result, the optimized IPIN-PVP membrane exhibits rapid response times of 5 s and a low detection limit of 4.087 × 10-8 m for gaseous iodine. It also introduces a portable handheld detection device that utilizes the composite membrane, offering a practical solution for real-time on-site detection of volatile iodine. This innovation enhances nuclear safety measures and disaster management by providing rapid and reliable iodine detection capabilities.

Chronic Excess Iodine Intake Inhibits Bone Reconstruction Leading to Osteoporosis in Rats

BACKGROUND

Although iodine modulates bone metabolism in the treatment of thyroid disease, the effect of iodine intake on bone metabolism remains less known.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the effect of excess iodine intake in rats on bone reconstruction in the 6th and 12th month of intervention.

METHOD

Rats were treated with different doses of iodinated water: the normal group (NI, 6.15 μg/d), 5-fold high iodine group (5HI, 30.75 μg/d), 10-fold high iodine group (10HI, 61.5 μg/d), 50-fold high iodine group (50HI, 307.5 μg/d), and 100-fold high iodine group (100HI, 615 μg/d). Thyroid hormone concentrations were determined by a chemiluminescent immunoassay. Morphometry and microstructure of bone trabecula were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and microcomputed tomography, respectively. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining were performed to evaluate the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, respectively.

RESULTS

The 24-h urine iodine concentration increased with iodine intake. The rats in the HI groups had higher serum thyroid-stimulating hormone and decreased serum free thyroxine concentrations in the 12th month than the NI group (all P < 0.05). The percentage of the trabecular bone area and osteoblast perimeter in the 100HI group were significantly lower than those in the NI group (P < 0.05). Increased structure model index was observed in the 50HI and 100HI groups compared with the NI group in the 6th month and increased trabecular separation in the 12th month (all P < 0.05). ALP and TRAP staining revealed osteoblastic bone formation was reduced, and the number of TRAP+ multinucleated cells decreased with increasing iodine intake.

CONCLUSIONS

Excess iodine intake may increase the risk of hypothyroidism in rats. Chronic excess iodine intake can lead to abnormal changes in skeletal structure, resulting in reduced activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, which inhibits the process of bone reconstruction and may lead to osteoporosis.

The correlation between iodine and metabolism: a review

Iodine is involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormones and plays a crucial role in human life. Both iodine deficiency and excess are common issues in certain populations. Iodine also has extrathyroidal effects on organs that can uptake it independently of thyroid hormones. Recently, multiple clinical studies have shown a connection between iodine intake and metabolic disorders, such as metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. However, the results of these studies have been inconsistent, and the mechanisms behind these associations are still not well understood. Therefore, in this review, we aim to examine the recent research progress regarding the relationship between iodine and metabolic disorders, along with the relevant mechanisms.

Comprehensive literature review of oral and intravenous contrast-enhanced PET/CT: a step forward?

The integration of diagnostic CT scans into PET/CT facilitates a comprehensive single examination, presenting potential advantages for patients seeking a thorough one-shot check-up. The introduction of iodinated contrast media during PET scanning raises theoretical concerns about potential interference with uptake quantification, due to the modification of tissue density on CT. Nevertheless, this impact appears generally insignificant for clinical use, compared to the intrinsic variability of standardized uptake values. On the other hand, with the growing indications of PET, especially 18F-FDG PET, contrast enhancement increases the diagnostic performances of the exam, and provides additional information. This improvement in performance achieved through contrast-enhanced PET/CT must be carefully evaluated considering the associated risks and side-effects stemming from the administration of iodinated contrast media. Within this article, we present a comprehensive literature review of contrast enhanced PET/CT, examining the potential impact of iodinated contrast media on quantification, additional side-effects and the pivotal clinically demonstrated benefits of an all-encompassing examination for patients. In conclusion, the clinical benefits of iodinated contrast media are mainly validated by the large diffusion in PET protocols. Contrary to positive oral contrast, which does not appear to offer any major advantage in patient management, intravenous iodine contrast media provides clinical benefits without significant artifact on images or quantification. However, studies on the benefit-risk balance for patients are still lacking.

Triiodide Anion as a Magnesium-ion Transporter for Low Overpotential Battery Cycling in Iodine-Containing Mg(TFSI)2 Electrolyte

Magnesium iodide (MgI2) solid-electrolyte interface (SEI) layers have previously been shown to protect Mg metal anodes from passivation through products formed during Mg(TFSI)2 electrolyte decomposition (TSFI = trifluorosulfonimide). MgI2 formed in situ from small quantities of I2 added to the electrolyte shows a drastic decrease in the overpotential for magnesium deposition and stripping. In this work, a MgI2 SEI layer was created in an ex situ fashion and then the electrochemical characteristics of this MgI2 SEI layer were probed both alone and with small quantities of I2 or Bu4NI3 additives to identify the electroactive species. Chronopotentiometry (CP) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) show that the MgI2 SEI alone is insufficient for low overpotential magnesium cycling. I(3d) XPS data show that I3- is formed within the SEI layer, which can serve as the electroactive species when ligated with Mg2+ for low overpotential (<50 mV at 0.1 mA cm-2 current density) cycling. Moreover, Raman shifts at 110 and 140 cm-1 are consistent with I3- formation, and these signatures are observed before and after CP experiments. The Mg0 deposition curves in the CV with additives are consistent with diffusive species. Finally, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) shows that there is a large decrease in the charge-transfer resistance within the SEI when either I2 or Bu4NI3 additives are used, which supports a solvating effect that facilitates magnesium deposition and stripping.

Amino-λ3 -iodane-Enabled Electrophilic Amination of Arylboronic Acid Derivatives

In this report, we describe the use of amino-λ3 -iodanes in the electrophilic amination of arylboronic acids and boronates. Iodine(III) reagents with transferable amino groups, including one with an NH2 group, were synthesized and used in the amination, allowing the synthesis of a wide range of primary and secondary (hetero)arylamines. Mechanistic studies by DFT calculations indicate that the reaction proceeds through an electrophilic amination process from a tetravalent borate complex with a B-N dative bond.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Iodized Salt Among Adults Aged 18 to 65 in the United Arab Emirates

BACKGROUND

Iodine plays a big role in growth and development and is used in the synthesis of thyroid hormones that regulate body organ functions. Its most important source is iodized salt. Iodine deficiency impairs cognitive development and precipitates many thyroid diseases.

AIM

The purpose of our study is to measure the knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards iodized salt in adults aged 18-65 years in the United Arab Emirates.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study that included 406 participants. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed in public places across the Emirates. The survey included the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants with questions related to knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards iodized salt. A knowledge score out of 13 was calculated. Chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, and Independent T-tests were used for analysis on the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, IBM Corp., Version 22.0, Armonk, NY), with a p-value less than 5% considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Out of the 406 respondents, 60% (n=246) were between the ages of 18-34 years and 71% (n=287) were at university level. The mean knowledge score was higher in participants with higher educational levels compared to participants with lower education levels (4.30 vs 2.63, respectively) and in older ages (35-65 years) compared to younger ages (18-34 years) (4.20 vs 3.59, respectively). Almost half of the participants buy iodized salt (48%, n=196), a minority buy non-iodized salt (14%, n=55), and the rest do not know what type of salt they buy. Most of the participants who use iodized salt store it in a closed container and do not expose it to sunlight.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge about iodized salt is relatively low. Less than half of the participants use it, while most of the participants who use iodized salt follow the right storage recommendations. Our study suggests the implementation of public campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of iodized salt and the benefits of using it.

Effect of Poly(Vinyl Pyrrolidone) on Iodine Release from Acrylate-Endcapped Urethane-Based Poly(Ethylene Glycol) Hydrogels as Antibacterial Wound Dressing

Infections are still a major cause of morbidity in burn wounds. Although silver has been used strongly in past centuries as an anti-bacterial, it can lead to allergic reactions, bacterial resistance, and delayed wound healing. Iodine-based antibacterials are becoming an interesting alternative. In this work, the effect of complexation with poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-based polymers is explored by using different acrylate-endcapped urethane-based poly(ethylene glycol) (AUP) polymers, varying the molar mass (MM) of the poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) backbone, with possible addition of PVP. The higher MM AUP outperforms the swelling potential of commercial wound dressings such as Kaltostat, Aquacel Ag, and Hydrosorb and all MM show superior mechanical properties. The addition of iodine to the polymers is compared to Iso-Betadine Tulle (IBT). Interestingly, the addition of PVP does not lead to increased iodine complexation compared to the blank AUP polymers, while all have a prolonged iodine release compared to the IBT, which leads to a burst release. The observed prolonged release also leads to larger inhibition zones during antibacterial tests. Complexing iodine in AUP polymers with or without PVP leads to antimicrobial wound dressings which may hold potential for future application to treat infected wounds.

History of Neonatal Screening of Congenital Hypothyroidism in Portugal

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) leads to growth and development delays and is preventable with early treatment. Neonatal screening for CH was initiated in Portugal in 1981. This study examines the history of CH screening in the country. Data were obtained from annual reports and from the national database of neonatal screening laboratory. The CH screening strategy primarily relies on the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), followed by total thyroxine measurement as the second tier for confirmation. The TSH cutoff started at 90 mIU/L, decreasing to the actual 10 mIU/L. The coverage of the screening program has increased rapidly; although voluntary, it reached about 90% in 6 years and became universal in 10 years. Guideline and cutoff updates led to the identification of over 200 additional cases, resulting in specific retesting protocols for preterm and very-low-birth-weight babies. The actual decision tree considers CH when TSH levels are above 40 mIU/L. Data from the CH screening also provide an indication of the iodine status of the population, which is presently indicative of iodine insufficiency. The Portuguese neonatal screening for CH is a history of success. It has rapidly and continuously adapted to changes in knowledge and has become a universal voluntary practice within a few years.

Development and validation of a food frequency questionnaire to assess habitual iodine intake among women of childbearing age

BACKGROUND

Adequate iodine status is critical for thyroid hormone synthesis, which is essential for foetal brain development. Suboptimal iodine status has been reported in young women across Europe. Although urinary iodine concentration (UIC) is a good indicator of recent exposure, it does not reflect habitual iodine intake. This study aimed to develop and validate an iodine-specific food frequency questionnaire (I-FFQ) to assess habitual intake in Irish women aged 18-50 years.

METHODS

A 47-item interviewer-administered I-FFQ, informed by national food consumption data on Irish women aged 18-35 years, was developed and validated in a study of 100 nonpregnant women using a 4-day weighed food diary (FD) and UIC as the reference methods. Correlation, cross-classification and Bland-Altman analyses were used to assess agreement and bias between the I-FFQ and FD. Validity coefficients were calculated using the method of triads.

RESULTS

Median (interquartile range [IQR]) UIC was 82 (49, 139) µg/L. Median (IQR) intakes were 161 (106, 217) and 133 (98, 182) µg/day for the I-FFQ and FD, respectively (p = 0.001). Estimates were moderately correlated (r = 0.434), and the I-FFQ classified 89% of participants into the same or adjacent tertile of intake as the FD. Validity coefficients for the I-FFQ, FD and UIC were 0.542, 0.800 and 0.228, respectively. Though repeatability analyses 10 weeks later (n = 69) showed slight differences in estimates of intake (I-FFQ1: 164 (104, 210) µg/day; I-FFQ2: 132 (67, 237) µg/day), intakes were highly correlated between administrations (r = 0.627, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The I-FFQ provides a reasonable estimate of habitual iodine intake in young women.

Micronutrient status in children aged 6-59 months with severe wasting and/or nutritional edema: implications for nutritional rehabilitation formulations

Undernutrition remains a global struggle and is associated with almost 45% of deaths in children younger than 5 years. Despite advances in management of severe wasting (though less so for nutritional edema), full and sustained recovery remains elusive. Children with severe wasting and/or nutritional edema (also commonly referred to as severe acute malnutrition and part of the umbrella term "severe malnutrition") continue to have a high mortality rate. This suggests a likely multifactorial etiology that may include micronutrient deficiency. Micronutrients are currently provided in therapeutic foods at levels based on expert opinion, with few supportive studies of high quality having been conducted. This narrative review looks at the knowledge base on micronutrient deficiencies in children aged 6-59 months who have severe wasting and/or nutritional edema, in addition to highlighting areas where further research is warranted (See "Future Directions" section).

Low Iodine Nutrition Knowledge in Chinese Breastfeeding Women despite Adequate Iodine Status

There has been a scarcity of evidence about iodine nutrition knowledge among women during pregnancy and lactation. The aim of this study was to determine women's iodine knowledge and the relationship between knowledge and iodine status during pregnancy and lactation. Women were recruited from a hospital in the western part of China in the third trimester of pregnancy and followed until the end of the first week of lactation. The women's iodine status was measured by their urinary iodine concentration (UIC) and an iodine-specific, validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Iodine nutrition knowledge was assessed using an iodine nutrition knowledge questionnaire. A total of 200 women (mean age of 29.0 ± 4.2 years) completed the whole study. The majority of the women did not consume enough iodine during both pregnancy and lactation (231.89 vs. 237.26 µg/day). The overall mean iodine knowledge scores in our sample of women during pregnancy and lactation were 4.77 and 4.87, indicating low iodine knowledge. The use of iodized salt and a higher education level were significantly associated with an increased iodine knowledge score. In conclusion, this study reported poor iodine nutrition knowledge in women, highlighting a public health concern. Therefore, the iodine knowledge of women should be improved, possibly via maternal health campaigns to avoid the consequences of iodine deficiency disorders in newborns.

Assessment of Individual and Mixed Effects of Six Minerals on Thyroid Hormones in Chinese Pregnant Women

The biosynthesis of thyroid hormones is essential for brain and neurological development. It requires iodine as a key component but is also influenced by other nutrients. Evidence for the combined nutrient status in relation to thyroid hormones during pregnancy is limited. We aimed to investigate the joint associations of iodine, selenium, zinc, calcium, magnesium and iron with maternal thyroid functions in 489 pregnant women from Hangzhou, China. Serum levels of six essential minerals and thyroid function parameters were measured during the first antenatal visit. Linear regression, quantile g-computation and Bayesian kernel machine regression were used to explore the individual and joint relationships between the six minerals and thyroid hormones. Linear regression analyses revealed that calcium was positively associated with free triiodothyronine (FT3). Zinc was positively associated with free thyroxine (FT4). Iodine was negatively associated with thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and positively associated with FT3 and FT4. The quantile g-computation and BKMR models indicated that the joint nutrient concentration was negatively associated with TSH and positively associated with FT3 and FT4. Among the six minerals, iodine contributed most to thyroid function. The findings suggested that maintaining the appropriate concentration of minerals, either as individuals or a mixture, is important for thyroid health during pregnancy.

Rechargeable Aqueous Zinc-Halogen Batteries: Fundamental Mechanisms, Research Issues, and Future Perspectives

Aqueous zinc-halogen batteries (AZHBs) have emerged as promising candidates for energy storage applications due to their high security features and low cost. However, several challenges including natural subliming, sluggish reaction kinetics, and shuttle effect of halogens, as well as dendrite growth of the zinc (Zn) anode, have hindered their large-scale commercialization. In this review, first the fundamental mechanisms and scientific issues associated with AZHBs are summarized. Then the research issues and progresses related to the cathode, separator, anode, and electrolyte are discussed. Additionally, emerging research opportunities in this field is explored. Finally, ideas and prospects for the future development of AZHBs are presented. The objective of this review is to stimulate further exploration, foster the advancement of AZHBs, and contribute to the diversified development of electrochemical energy storage.

The ETA-ESE statement on the European Chemicals Agency opinion on iodine as an endocrine disruptor

In 2022, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) made a statement concluding that iodine is an endocrine disruptor (ED). "We stress the fact that the ECHA opinion ECHA/BPC/357/2022 is based on their misguidedly zooming in on exclusively the biocidal products (e.g., hand disinfectants, disinfection of animals' teats/udder, embalming fluids before cremation, etc.) that contain molecular iodine (I2), entirely neglecting [see the 2013 ECHA Regulation (EU) n°528/2012 describing iodine as being of "great importance for human health". Clearly, the current sweeping and erroneous classification of "iodine" as an endocrine disruptor is ill-advised. We moreover call upon the scientific and medical community at large to use the accurate scientific nomenclature, i.e., iodide or iodate instead of "iodine" when referring to iodized salts and food prepared there with. Drugs, diagnostic agents, and synthetic chemicals containing the element iodine in the form of covalent bonds must be correctly labelled ''iodinated'', if possible, using each time their distinctive and accurate chemical or pharmacological name.

The Iodine/Iodide/Starch Supramolecular Complex

The nature of the blue color in the iodine-starch reaction (or, in most cases, iodine-iodide-starch reaction, i.e., I2 as well as I- are typically present) has for decades elicited debate. The intensity of the color suggests a clear charge-transfer nature of the band at ~600 nm, and there is consensus regarding the fact that the hydrophobic interior of the amylose helix is the location where iodine binds. Three types of possible sources of charge transfer have been proposed: (1) chains of neutral I2 molecules, (2) chains of poly-iodine anions (complicated by the complex speciation of the I2-I- mixture), or (3) mixtures of I2 molecules and iodide or polyiodide anions. An extended literature review of the topic is provided here. According to the most recent data, the best candidate for the "blue complex" is an I2-I5--I2 unit, which is expected to occur in a repetitive manner inside the amylose helix.

Iodineminho Study: Iodine Supplementation and Prevalence of Iodine Deficiency in Pregnant Women

CONTEXT

Iodine is necessary for the proper brain development. The prevalence of iodine deficiency in Portuguese pregnant women led the health authorities, in 2013, to recommend iodine supplementation for women in preconception, throughout pregnancy and during lactation.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of iodine supplementation initiated in the preconception or the first trimester of pregnancy on the prevalence of iodine deficiency and maternal thyroid status.

METHODS

An observational prospective cohort study that follows thyroid function and iodine status of women recruited in preconception or in the first trimester of pregnancy.

RESULTS

The median urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was significantly higher among women taking iodine supplements (no-supplement group UIC=63µg/L; supplement group UIC =100µg/L, p = 0.002) but still below the levels recommended by the World Health Organization. Only 15% of pregnant women had adequate iodine status and 17% showed UIC < 50 µg/l. There was no influence of whether iodine supplementation started in preconception or in the 1st trimester of gestation (UIC preconception group: 112µg/L vs UIC pregnancy group: 91µg/L, p = 0.569). In the 1st trimester of pregnancy, total thyroxine levels were lower and free triiodothyronine levels were higher in non-supplemented women. Thyroglobulin levels were lower in women who started iodine supplementation in preconception compared to non-supplemented women and women who started iodine supplementation during gestation.

CONCLUSION

In the Minho region of Portugal, fertile women have insufficient iodine intake. Additional public health measures are needed since the current recommendations for iodine supplementation for pregnancy are unsatisfactory to achieve an adequate iodine status.

Fifteen Years of Iodine Prophylaxis in Italy: Results of a Nationwide Surveillance (Period 2015-2019)

CONTEXT

In 2005, a nationwide program of iodine prophylaxis on a voluntary basis was implemented in Italy by law. However, recent data on iodine status are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate efficiency, effectiveness, and possible adverse effects (increased occurrence of thyroid autoimmunity and hyperthyroidism) of the Italian iodine prophylaxis program.

METHODS

From 2015 to 2019, a nationwide survey was performed. The use of iodized salt was evaluated in a sample of 164 593 adults and in 998 school canteens. A sample of 4233 schoolchildren (aged 11-13 years) was recruited to assess urinary iodine concentration, prevalence of goiter, and thyroid hypoechogenicity on ultrasound, with the latter being an indirect indicator of thyroid autoimmunity. Neonatal TSH values of 197 677 infants screened in regions representative of Northern, Central, and Southern Italy were analyzed to investigate the percentage of TSH values >5.0 mIU/L. Data on methimazole prescriptions were analyzed as indirect indicators of new cases of hyperthyroidism.

RESULTS

The prevalence of the use of iodized salt was 71.5% in adult population and 78% in school canteens. A median urinary iodine concentration of 124 μg/L, a prevalence of goiter of 2.2%, and a prevalence of thyroid hypoechogenicity of 5.7% were observed in schoolchildren. The percentage of neonatal TSH values >5.0 mIU/L resulted still higher (5.1%) than the World Health Organization threshold of 3.0%, whereas the prescriptions of methimazole showed a reduction of 13.5%.

CONCLUSION

Fifteen years of iodine prophylaxis have led to iodine sufficiency in Italy, although there still is concern about iodine nutritional status during pregnancy.

Development of a Multifunctional Composite Hydrogel for Enhanced Wound Healing: Hemostasis, Sterilization, and Long-Term Moisturizing Properties

Meeting the diverse requirements of effective wound repair while surpassing the single-function limitations of traditional wound dressings is a significant challenge. In this study, we successfully synthesized an inclusion complex of 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) and iodine using the saturated aqueous solution method. Additionally, dialdehyde cellulose (DAC) was extracted from fat-free cotton through oxidation. To enhance wound healing, l-glutamine (l-glu) was utilized as a functional molecule, resulting in composite hydrogels with hemostatic, sterilizing, and wound-healing-promoting properties that were achieved by adsorbing the resulting inclusion complex. Through TG and SEM analysis, we confirmed that iodine was effectively accommodated by cyclodextrin and was uniformly attached to the hydrogel. The hydrogel exhibits exceptional long-term moisturizing and bactericidal properties, while also demonstrating excellent swelling, oxygen permeability, hemolytic, and mechanical properties, fully satisfying the requirements of wound treatment. External coagulation tests revealed that the hydrogel can rapidly coagulate 4.5 times its own weight of blood. Moreover, in a full-thickness scald mouse model, the hydrogel effectively promotes wound healing. The development of this multifunctional composite hydrogel presents a novel approach to advance wound dressing research, holding substantial potential for practical applications.

Too Much Too Little: Clarifying the Relationship Between Maternal Iodine Intake and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes

BACKGROUND

In 2009, the Australian government mandated the fortification of bread salt with iodine. In 2010, pregnant and lactating women were also advised to take an iodine-containing supplement. Our assessment of this policy in an iodine-sufficient population showed that children whose mothers were in the highest and lowest quartiles of iodine intake performed more poorly on early childhood tests of cognition and language than those in the second quartile. However, we did not quantify the iodine intake associated with optimal neurodevelopment.

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to establish the iodine intake range in pregnancy associated with optimal child neurodevelopment.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study of pregnant women and their young children (n = 699). Iodine intake was assessed by a validated food frequency questionnaire at 16 and 28 wk of gestation. Child neurodevelopment at 18 mo of age was measured using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (Bayley-III). The relationship between average iodine intake during pregnancy and child neurodevelopment was assessed using linear regression with fractional polynomials and adjustment for confounders.

RESULTS

Mean (SD) iodine intake was similar at study entry and 28 wk, 308 (120) μg/d, with 82% of women taking iodine supplements at study entry. The relationship between iodine intake during pregnancy and Bayley-III cognitive and language scores was curvilinear (P = 0.001 and P = 0.004, respectively), with the lowest Bayley-III scores observed at lower and higher iodine intakes. The inflection point that drove the association between lower iodine intake in pregnancy and poorer child neurodevelopment scores was around 185 μg/d; for the higher pregnancy iodine intakes, language and cognitive scores were negatively affected from ∼350 μg/d to 370 μg/d, respectively. Higher iodine intakes were being driven by supplement use.

CONCLUSIONS

Targeted, not blanket, iodine supplementation may be needed for pregnant women with low-iodine intake from food.

Iodine Promotes Glucose Uptake through Akt Phosphorylation and Glut-4 in Adipocytes, but Higher Doses Induce Cytotoxic Effects in Pancreatic Beta Cells

BACKGROUND

Epidemiological clinical reports have shown an association between iodine excess with diabetes mellitus type 2 and higher blood glucose. However, the relationship between iodine, the pancreas, adipose tissue, and glucose transport is unclear. The goal of this study was to analyze the effect of iodine concentrations (in Lugol solution) on glucose transport, insulin secretion, and its cytotoxic effects in mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes and pancreatic beta-TC-6 cells.

METHODS

Fibroblast 3T3-L1, mature adipocytes, and pancreatic beta-TC-6 cells were treated with 1 to 1000 µM of Lugol (molecular iodine dissolved in potassium iodide) for 30 min to 24 h for an MTT proliferation assay. Then, glucose uptake was measured with the fluorescent analog 2-NBDG, insulin receptor, Akt protein, p-Akt (ser-473), PPAR-gamma, and Glut4 by immunoblot; furthermore, insulin, alpha-amylase, oxidative stress, and caspase-3 activation were measured by colorimetric methods and the expression of markers of the apoptotic pathway at the RNAm level by real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Low concentrations of Lugol significantly induce insulin secretion and glucose uptake in pancreatic beta-TC-6 cells, and in adipose cells, iodine-induced glucose uptake depends on the serine-473 phosphorylation of Akt (p-Akt) and Glut4. Higher doses of Lugol lead to cell growth inhibition, oxidative stress, and cellular apoptosis dependent on PPAR-gamma, Bax mRNA expression, and caspase-3 activation in pancreatic beta-TC-6 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Iodine could influence glucose metabolism in mature adipocytes and insulin secretion in pancreatic beta cells, but excessive levels may cause cytotoxic damage to pancreatic beta cells.

Iodine: a scoping review for Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023

Iodine is essential for the synthesis of the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). As in many other parts of the world, insufficient iodine intake and consequently insufficient iodine status is a public health challenge in the Nordic and Baltic countries. The main dietary sources of iodine in the Nordic and Baltic countries include cow's milk, saltwater fish, eggs, products containing iodised salt, and iodised table salt. Only Denmark (DK), Finland (FI) and Sweden (SE) have implemented mandatory (DK) or voluntary (SE, FI) salt iodisation. New data, as well as recent studies from the Nordic and Baltic countries, strengthen the evidence that the main health challenges related to insufficient iodine intake remain thyroid function and thyroid disease, mental development, and cognitive function. Excessive intakes can also cause hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroid disease, and thyroid cancer.

Hyperthyroidism in Danish Pregnant Women During a 20-Year Period

CONTEXT

Hyperthyroidism in pregnancy is a clinical concern, and surveillance of any change in the occurrence of hyperthyroidism in pregnancy is important, especially when a mandatory iodine fortification (IF) program is implemented such as in Denmark in the year 2000.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate any change in the occurrence of hyperthyroidism and the use of antithyroid drugs (ATDs) in Danish pregnant women during a 20-year period before and after the implementation of IF.

METHODS

A nationwide register-based cohort (1997-2016) and 2 birth cohorts with biochemical data (the Danish National Birth Cohort, 1997-2003, and the North Denmark Region Pregnancy Cohort, 2011-2015) were used to study maternal use of ATDs in pregnancy and frequency of early pregnancy biochemical hyperthyroidism during a 20-year period prior to and after the implementation of mandatory IF.

RESULTS

In the nationwide cohort, the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for treatment with ATDs was 1.51 (95% CI, 1.30-1.74) after mandatory IF (2001-2004) compared with baseline (1997-1999). The increase was more pronounced in the previously moderately iodine-deficient West Denmark (aOR 1.67; 95% CI, 1.36-2.04) than the mildly deficient East Denmark (aOR 1.30; 95% CI, 1.06-1.60) and returned to baseline levels at the end of follow-up in both regions. No time-related difference in early pregnancy biochemical hyperthyroidism was observed.

CONCLUSION

The use of ATDs in Danish pregnant women increased following the implementation of IF and then leveled out. Results comply with observations in the general Danish population and suggest that IF influences the occurrence of autoimmune hyperthyroidism in younger individuals.

Construction of Ketoenamine-Based Covalent Organic Frameworks with Electron-Rich Sites for Efficient and Rapid Removal of Iodine from Solution

Porous covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have been widely used for the efficient removal of iodine from solution due to their abundance of electron-rich sites. In this study, two kinds of ketoenamine-based COFs, TpBD-(OMe)2 and TpBD-Me2, are successfully synthesized via Schiff base reaction under solvothermal conditions using 1, 3, 5-triformylphoroglucinol as aldehyde monomer, o-tolidine and o-dianisidine as amino monomers. The ability of TpBD-(OMe)2 and TpBD-Me2 to adsorb iodine in cyclohexane or aqueous solutions has been quantitatively analyzed and interpreted in terms of adsorption sites. TpBD-Me2 possesses two adsorption sites, -NH- and -C=O, and exhibits an adsorption capacity of 681.67 mg/g in cyclohexane, with an initial adsorption rate of 0.6 g/mol/min with respect to COF unit cell. The adsorption capacity of TpBD-(OMe)2 can be as high as 728.77 mg/g, and the initial adsorption rate of TpBD-(OMe)2 can reach 1.2 g/mol/min in the presence of oxygen atoms between the methyl group and the benzene ring. Compared with TpBD-Me2, the higher adsorption capacity and adsorption rate of TpBD-(OMe)2 towards iodine are not only reflected in organic solvents, but also in aqueous solutions. It is proven through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy that iodine exists in the form of I2, I3-, and I5- within TpBD-(OMe)2 and TpBD-Me2 after adsorption. This work not only expands the application of COFs in the field of iodine adsorption, but also provides research ideas and important an experimental basis for the optimization of iodine adsorption sites.

Isotopic Evidence Unveils Fossil Fuels Contribution to Atmospheric Iodine

Iodine is a crucial nutrient for public health, and its presence in the terrestrial atmosphere is a key factor in determining the prevalence of iodine deficiency disorders. While oceanic iodine emissions decrease at lower sea surface temperatures, the primary contributors to atmospheric iodine can vary from oceanic sources in the summer to other sources in winter. However, the specific sources and their respective contributions have remained unexplored. Fortunately, the atomic ratio of 129I to 127I significantly differs between nuclear activity and fossil fuels like coal and petroleum, which formed millions to billions of years ago. This distinction makes 129I a valuable tool for identifying iodine sources. In our study, we analyzed iodine isotopes and incorporated additional indicators such as element content in PM2.5 samples. Our findings reveal, for the first time, that in winter inland areas, fuel oil, alongside coal combustion, is a significant source of atmospheric iodine. This research enhances our comprehension of the impact of human activities on iodine levels in the environment. This understanding is crucial not only for addressing iodine deficiency-related health concerns but also for comprehending stratospheric ozone depletion, a phenomenon closely associated with atmospheric iodine.

Bioavailability of iodine from a meal consisting of sushi and a wakame seaweed salad-A randomized crossover trial

The consumption of seaweed is on the rise in the Western world. Seaweeds may contain substantial amounts of iodine, and some species could serve as a potential dietary iodine source. However, limited data on the iodine content and in vivo bioavailability of iodine from seaweeds exist. The objective was to assess whether iodine from a meal consisting of sushi with nori, (Porphyra spp) and a wakame seaweed salad (Undaria pinnatifida) had similar bioavailability as a potassium iodide reference supplement of similar iodine content. A randomized 2 × 2 crossover trial (AB/BA model) was conducted in 20 healthy young women. One intervention arm consisted of a meal with sushi and wakame salad (231 μg iodine), and the other of potassium iodide (KI) supplement (225 μg iodine). Urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was measured at 11 different time points for 48 h after the interventions. The UIC increased after consumption of both the sushi and wakame meal and the KI supplement, but the median UIC was higher after ingestion of the KI supplement. The estimated bioavailability of iodine during the first 24 h was 75% from sushi with wakame and 97% from the KI supplement. The bioequivalence analyses confirmed that the KI supplement had higher estimated bioavailability than the sushi and wakame meal, however, with small margins. Our findings on iodine bioavailability imply that sushi and wakame could be potential iodine sources in the diet, which may be favorable for population groups at risk for iodine deficiency. However, further research is needed to account for the variability of iodine content in seaweeds by different locations and degree of processing, to assure that the iodine levels are stable and predictable for the consumers.

Effects of iodine status on thyroid volume and goiter in children living in an iodine-replete area

Objective

Adequate iodine intake is essential for growing children, and thyroid volume (Tvol) is considered as an indicator of iodine status. We investigated Tvol and goiter using ultrasonography (US) and their association with iodine status in 228 6-year-old children living in Korea.

Methods

Iodine status was assessed using urine iodine concentration (UIC) and categorized as deficient (<100 μg/L), adequate (100-299 μg/L), mild excess (300-499 μg/L), moderate excess (500-999 μg/L), and severe excess (≥1000 μg/L). Tvol was measured using US, and a goiter on the US (goiter-US) was defined as Tvol greater than 97th percentile value by age- and body surface area (BSA)-specific international references.

Results

The median Tvol was 2.4 mL, larger than the international reference value (1.6 mL). The age- and BSA-specific goiter-US rates were 25.9% (n = 59) and 34.6% (n = 79), respectively. The prevalence of excess iodine was 73.7% (n = 168). As iodine status increased from adequate to severe excess, the goiter-US rate significantly increased (P for trend <0.05). The moderate and severe iodine excess groups showed higher risk of goiter-US (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 3.1 (95% CI: 1.1-9.2) and aOR = 3.1 (95% CI: 1.2-8.3), respectively; age-specific criteria) than the iodine-adequate group.

Conclusions

Excess iodine was prevalent in Korean children, and their Tvol was higher than the international reference values. Goiter rate was associated with iodine excess, which significantly increased in the moderate and severe iodine excess groups. Further studies are warranted to define optimal iodine intake in children.

Advanced biomedical imaging for accurate discrimination and prognostication of mediastinal masses

BACKGROUND

To investigate the potential of radiomic features and dual-source dual-energy CT (DECT) parameters in differentiating between benign and malignant mediastinal masses and predicting patient outcomes.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we analysed data from 90 patients (38 females, mean age 51 ± 25 years) with confirmed mediastinal masses who underwent contrast-enhanced DECT. Attenuation, radiomic features and DECT-derived imaging parameters were evaluated by two experienced readers. We performed analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Chi-square statistic tests for data comparison. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and Cox regression tests were used to differentiate between mediastinal masses.

RESULTS

Of the 90 mediastinal masses, 49 (54%) were benign, including cases of thymic hyperplasia/thymic rebound (n = 10), mediastinitis (n = 16) and thymoma (n = 23). The remaining 41 (46%) lesions were classified as malignant, consisting of lymphoma (n = 28), mediastinal tumour (n = 4) and thymic carcinoma (n = 9). Significant differences were observed between benign and malignant mediastinal masses in all DECT-derived parameters (p ≤ .001) and 38 radiomic features (p ≤ .044) obtained from contrast-enhanced DECT. The combination of these methods achieved an area under the curve of .98 (95% CI, .893-1.000; p < .001) to differentiate between benign and malignant masses, with 100% sensitivity and 91% specificity. Throughout a follow-up of 1800 days, a multiparametric model incorporating radiomic features, DECT parameters and gender showed promising prognostic power in predicting all-cause mortality (c-index = .8 [95% CI, .702-.890], p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

A multiparametric approach combining radiomic features and DECT-derived imaging biomarkers allows for accurate and noninvasive differentiation between benign and malignant masses in the anterior mediastinum.

Hyperthyroidism incidence in a large population-based study in northeastern Italy

Objective

An improvement in iodine status in Veneto Region has been documented in the last decade. We aimed at estimating the incidence of hyperthyroidism in the Veneto Region (Italy) over the period 2013-2022.

Methods

Retrospective population-based study conducted in Veneto (4.9 million people) using the population registry, an administrative health database. Between 2012 and 2022, hyperthyroidism incidence was defined thank to a health-care co-payment exemption for hyperthyroidism or any hospital diagnosis of hyperthyroidism. Incident hyperthyroidism was defined from 2013 to 2022 to exclude prevalent cases. Standardized incidence rates (IRs) were reported by age, sex, and etiology of thyroid hyperfunction too.

Results

We identified 26,602 incident cases (IR of 54.38 per 100,000 person-years, 2.47-fold higher in females than in males). IR decreased from 69.87 (95% CI: 67.49, 72.25) in 2013 to 42.83 (95% CI: 40.99, 44.66) in 2022. In 2020, an out-of-trend decrease in hyperthyroidism incidence was documented, corresponding to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic outbreak, with a realignment to the trend in the subsequent years. The annual percentage change according to the cause of hyperthyroidism was as follows: -6.62% (95% CI: 8.47, 4.73) (P < 0.0001) in toxic multinodular goiter, -7.56% in toxic uninodular goiter (95% CI: 10.54, 4.48) (P < 0.001) and -4.70% (95% CI: 6.33, 3.04) in toxic diffuse goiter (Graves' disease) (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

We documented a decline in the incidence of hyperthyroidism in Veneto Region, paralleling the improvement of the iodine status, thanks to a long and sustained iodine prophylaxis campaign. SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and vaccination campaign did not change the declining trend of hyperthyroidism incidence in our study region.

Significance statement

An improvement in iodine status in the population residing in the Veneto region has been documented in the last decade, thanks to a nationwide voluntary iodine prophylaxis program running since 2005, but its impact on the epidemiology of thyroid disease has never been documented. This is the largest study on the incidence rates of hyperthyroidism carried out in Italy and covers the longest observation period among all regionwide population-based studies of hyperthyroidism in our country. We documented a reduction in the incidence of hyperthyroidism, which was more pronounced in nodular goiter diagnosis but involved also toxic diffuse goiter. The decline in the incidence of hyperthyroidism in Veneto Region shows the efficacy and safety of the iodine prophylaxis campaign.

Adjusting the Iodine Content of Iodized Salt to Meet the Recommended Intake for Females of Reproductive Age: A Simulation Study with a Reduced Sodium Scenario

BACKGROUND

The use of iodized salt is a key strategy to increase iodine intake worldwide. In many countries, including New Zealand, females of reproductive age are still at risk of being mildly iodine deficient.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the level of iodization of salt needed to ensure that females aged 18 to 40 y have an adequate intake of iodine in 2 scenarios: current discretionary salt intake and reduced discretionary salt intake.

METHOD

Data from nonpregnant, nonlactating females aged 18 to 40 y (n = 795) who took part in the 2008/09 New Zealand Adult Nutrition Survey and completed a 24-h dietary recall were used. Iodine intake was determined from all foods except bread and discretionary salt, which are fortified with iodine. Iodine from bread and salt was estimated at different levels of salt iodization, starting at 25 mg iodine/kg salt and increasing incrementally by 5 mg/kg, and added to calculate total iodine intake. The simulation concluded when the appropriate iodine content in salt was found using the estimated average requirement (EAR) cut-point method.

RESULTS

In the 2 scenarios, current discretionary salt intake (i.e., 400 mg/d) and reduced discretionary salt intake (i.e., 304 mg/d), the iodine concentration of salt is required to be 55 mg/kg and 70 mg/kg for no more than 2% of females to have an iodine intake below the EAR of 100 μg of iodine/d, respectively. In both scenarios and at all levels of iodine concentration, no one was above the upper level of intake of iodine of 1100 μg/d.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that females of reproductive age need to consume iodized salt at the higher end of the legislated range of 25 to 65 mg/kg. If strategies to reduce sodium intake were adopted, the range would need to increase, or iodized salt would need to be included in a wider range of staple foods.

Adoption of a Short-Term (4-Week) Vegan Diet as Part of 'Veganuary' Significantly Reduces Saturated Fatty Acid (SFA), Cholesterol, B12, and Iodine Intake in Omnivorous Individuals-An Observational Study

Global veganism campaigns like 'Veganuary' have gained popularity. We conducted an observational study to assess the impact of a 4-week vegan diet during 'Veganuary' on nutrient intake, status, knowledge, and motivations for veganism. Data were collected before and after 'Veganuary', using Food Frequency Questionnaires (FFQs) to estimate dietary intake. Micronutrient knowledge and motivation were assessed through questionnaires. A total of 154 UK adults aged 18-60 years (2019: n81; 2020: n73) participated. Groups were vegetarians and omnivores committed to a 4-week vegan diet during 'Veganuary'. Control groups were vegans and omnivores who did not transition. Short-term vegan diets significantly decreased intake of iodine, B12, cholesterol, and saturated fatty acids (SFAs) in omnivores. Micronutrient knowledge was low, and motivation for veganism varied. Short-term vegan diets reduce macro- and micronutrient intake in omnivores. Veganuary participants could benefit from nutritional guidance or supplementation. Attention is required for UK micronutrient intake and knowledge. Motivations for vegan pledges may influence diets, warranting further research.

Co-Occurrence of Bromine and Iodine Species in US Drinking Water Sources That Can Impact Disinfection Byproduct Formation

Bromine and iodine species are precursors for forming disinfection byproducts in finished drinking waters. Our study incorporates spatial and temporal data to quantify concentrations of inorganic (bromide (Br-), iodide (I-), and iodate (IO3-)), organic, and total bromine (BrT) and iodine (IT) species from 286 drinking water sources and 7 wastewater effluents across the United States. Br- ranged from <5-7800 μg/L (median of 62 μg/L in surface water (SW) and 95 μg/L in groundwater (GW)). I- was detected in 41% of SW (1-72 μg/L, median = <1 μg/L) and 62% of GW (<1-250 μg/L, median = 3 μg/L) samples. The median Br-/I- ratio in SW and GW was 22 μg/μg and 16 μg/μg, respectively, in paired samples with detect Br- and I-. BrT existed primarily as Br-, while IT was present as I-, IO3-, and/or total organic iodine (TOI). Inorganic iodine species (I- and IO3-) were predominant in GW samples, accounting for 60-100% of IT; however, they contributed to only 20-50% of IT in SW samples. The unknown fraction of IT was attributed to TOI. In lakes, seasonal cycling of I-species was observed and was presumably due to algal productivity. Finally, Spearman Rank Correlation tests revealed a strong correlation between Br- and IT in SW (RBr-,IT = 0.83) following the log10 (Br-, μg/L) = 0.65 × log10 (IT, μg/L) - 0.17 relationship. Br- and I- in treated wastewater effluents (median Br- = 234 μg/L, median I- = 5 μg/L) were higher than drinking water sources.

Dual-energy computed tomography-based iodine concentration as a predictor of histopathological response to preoperative chemoradiotherapy for pancreatic cancer

To explore predictors of the histopathological response to preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in patients with pancreatic cancer (PC) using dual-energy computed tomography-reconstructed images. This retrospective study divided 40 patients who had undergone preoperative CRT (50-60 Gy in 25 fractions) followed by surgical resection into two groups: the response group (Grades II, III and IV, evaluated from surgical specimens) and the nonresponse group (Grades Ia and Ib). The computed tomography number [in Hounsfield units (HUs)] and iodine concentration (IC) were measured at the locations of the aorta, PC and pancreatic parenchyma (PP) in the contrast-enhanced 4D dual-energy computed tomography images. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of histopathological response. Univariate analysis did not reveal a significant relation between any parameter and patient characteristics or dosimetric parameters of the treatment plan. The HU and IC values in PP and the differences in HU and IC between the PP and PC (ΔHU and ΔIC, respectively) were significant predictors for distinguishing the response (n = 24) and nonresponse (n = 16) groups (P < 0.05). The IC in PP and ΔIC had a higher area under curve values [0.797 (95% confidence interval, 0.659-0.935) and 0.789 (0.650-0.928), respectively] than HU in PP and ΔHU [0.734 (0.580-0.889) and 0.721 (0.562-0.881), respectively]. The IC value could potentially be used for predicting the histopathological response in patients who have undergone preoperative CRT.

Morphological and functional changes in rat thyroid gland after a year following chronic exposure to low and intermediate doses of γ-radiation

INTRODUCTION

Thyroid function depends on iodine uptake by the body as well as on exposure to various harmful environmental hazards (stress, ionizing radiation).

AIM

The aim of the work was to assess the effect of exposure to low and intermediate doses of external γ-radiation on the thyroid structure and function in young female rats at remote periods after radiation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty female rats were used to study remote effects of external γ-radiation exposure during 20 d (at daily doses of 0.1, 0.25 and 0.5 Gy) on the functional activity (levels of thyroid hormones, iodine metabolism) and the morphological structure of the rat thyroid) after 12 months following the radiation exposure.

RESULTS

An increase in thyroid mass and a decrease in total thyroid protein concentration along with a reduction of blood T3 and T4 was shown only in rat groups exposed to 0.25 and 0.5 Gy. Both the concentration of total iodine and its protein-bound fraction (1.2-1.4 fold, p < .01) and the protein-bound to total iodine ratio were decreased in the thyroids of all irradiated animals. The 0.1-Gy group showed elevated thyroperoxidase (TPO) activity along with increased catalase activity, which may indicate the activation of iodine oxidation by thyrocytes. Only the 0.5-Gy group demonstrated reduced urinary excretion of iodine (2.1 fold, p < .01).The reduction of thyroid function at radiation doses of 0.25 and 0.5 Gy was characterized by a microfollicular structure and the development of atrophic changes in the parenchyma, desquamation of thyroid epithelium and an increase in epithelium proliferation. The diameter of the thyrocyte nuclei was increased in rats exposed to 0.25 and 0.5 Gy, which indicates functional tension of thyrocytes.

CONCLUSION

Our research shows that after a year, the exposure to external γ-radiation of 0.1, 0.25 and 0.5-Gy caused changes in the structure and function of the rat thyroid which are manifested by the development of hypothyroiditis (0.5 Gy), 'subclinical' hypothyroiditis (0.25 Gy) and functional tension of thyrocytes. The mechanisms of thyroid dysfunction - impaired- uptake of iodine and its organification against the background of activation of free radical processes - suggest disturbances in the function of the sodium/iodide symporter (NIS), TPO and thyroglobulin synthesis. In contrast to the intermediate doses, the effects of the 0.1-Gy dose were mostly found at the remote periods compared to the earlier periods (180 days).

Sabellica L.) Biofortified with 5,7-Diiodo-8-quinolinol: The Influence of Heat Treatment on Iodine Level, Macronutrient Composition and Antioxidant Content

Many disorders are a result of an inadequate supply of macronutrients and micronutrients in the diet. One such element is iodine. This study used curly kale (Brassica oleracea var. Sabellica L.) biofortified with the 5,7-diiodo-8-quinolinol iodine compound. The effect of the heat treatment on the chemical composition of the curly kale was studied. In addition, iodine bioavailability was evaluated in in vivo studies. Our investigation showed that iodine loss depends on the type of heat treatment as well as on the variety of kale. Curly kale biofortified with iodoquinoline had significantly higher iodine levels after thermal processing (steaming, blanching, boiling) than the vegetable biofortified with KIO3. Generally, steaming was the best thermal processing method, as it contributed to the lowest iodine loss in curly kale. The red variety of kale, 'Redbor F1', showed a better iodine stability during the heat treatment than the green variety, 'Oldenbor F1'. The thermal treatment also significantly affected the dry matter content and the basic chemical composition of the tested varieties of the 5,7-diI-8-Q biofortified kale. The steaming process caused a significant increase in total carbohydrates, fiber, protein and crude fat content ('Oldenbor F1', 'Redbor F1'), and antioxidant activity ('Oldenbor F1'). On the other hand, boiling caused a significant decrease, while steaming caused a significant increase, in protein and dry matter content ('Oldenbor F1', 'Redbor F1'). The blanching process caused the smallest significant decrease in ash compared to the other thermal processes used ('Oldenbor F1'). A feeding experiment using Wistar rats showed that iodine from the 5,7-diI-8-Q biofortified kale has a higher bioavailability than that from the AIN-93G diet. A number of promising results have been obtained, which could form the basis for further research.

Thyroid peroxidase antibody titers, thyroid function, and iodine nutrition status of pregnant normotensive and preeclamptic women in Eastern Cape South Africa

BACKGROUND

Autoimmune thyroid disease, one of the main risk factors for hypothyroidism, is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. The burden of autoimmune thyroid disease in pregnancy and its association with thyroid function among normotensive pregnant women and pregnant women with hypertension in South Africa are not known.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to establish the magnitude of thyroid peroxidase autoantibodies in pregnancy in the Eastern Cape of South Africa and its relationship with iodine nutrition status and preeclampsia.

STUDY DESIGN

Overall, 60 randomly selected normotensive pregnant controls at term and 120 pregnant participants with preeclampsia in the third trimester of pregnancy going to the Mthatha Regional Hospital and the Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in the Eastern Cape Province who had complete data on thyroid peroxidase antibody titers, urinary iodine concentrations, serum thyroid-stimulating hormones, and free triiodothyronine, free thyroxine, and thyroglobulin levels were enrolled in this unmatched case-control study.

RESULTS

The cases and controls had similar mean chronological age (23.8 vs 24.0 years), body mass index (29.4 vs 28.8 kg/m2), and median parity (both 1) (P>.05). The controls had a higher mean gestational age than participants with preeclampsia (38.5 vs 33.7 weeks, respectively; P<.001). Both participants with preeclampsia and normotensive participants had median thyroid peroxidase antibody levels consistent with a negative thyroid autoimmune status. Participants with preeclampsia had higher but nonstatistically significant median thyroid peroxidase antibody (2.14 vs 1.77 IU/L), thyroglobulin (25.9 vs 21.3 µg/L), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (2.4 vs 2.3 mIU/L) levels (P>.05) and significantly lower median urinary iodine concentration (123.4 vs 188.6 µg/L), free thyroxine (13.2 vs 14.1 pmol/L), and free triiodothyronine (4.3 vs 4.6 pmol/L) levels (P<.05) than normotensive controls. Thyroid peroxidase antibodies were positively correlated with thyroglobulin, urinary iodine concentration, and thyroid-stimulating hormone.

CONCLUSION

In the rural Eastern Cape of South Africa, pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy have thyroid peroxidase antibody titers that show negative thyroid autoimmune status. Insufficient iodine intake, other than thyroid autoimmune disease, seems to be the underlying cause of the lower free triiodothyronine and free thyroxine levels observed among women with preeclampsia.

[Sn2S6]4- Anion-Intercalated Layered Double Hydroxides for Highly Efficient Capture of Iodine

The development of low-cost and high-efficiency iodine sorbents is of great significance for the control of nuclear pollution. In this work, we intercalate the tin sulfide cluster of [Sn2S6]4- to Mg/Al-type layered double hydroxides to obtain Sn2S6-LDH, which exhibits highly efficient capture performance of iodine vapor and iodine in solutions. The dispersion effect of the positively charged LDH layers contributes to the adequate exposure of [Sn2S6]4- anions, providing plentiful adsorption sites. For iodine vapor, Sn2S6-LDH showed an extremely large iodine capture capacity of 2954 mg/g with a large contribution from physisorption. For iodine in solutions, a significantly large sorption capacity of 1308 mg/g was achieved. During iodine capture, I2 molecules were reduced to I- ions (by S2- in [Sn2S6]4-), which then reacted with Sn4+ to form SnI4, where the molar amount of captured iodine is 4-fold that of Sn. Besides, the as-reduced I- combined with I2 again to generate [I3]-, which then entered the LDH interlayers to maintain electric neutrality. While reducing iodine, S2- itself in [Sn2S6]4- was oxidized to S8, which further combined with SnI4 to form a novel compound of SnI4(S8)2. The excellent iodine capture capability endows Sn2S6-LDH with a promising application in trapping radioactive iodine.

Microbial involvement in iodine cycle: mechanisms and potential applications

Stable iodine isotopes are essential for humans as they are necessary for producing thyroid gland hormones. However, there are hazardous radioactive iodine isotopes that are emitted into the environment through radioactive waste generated by nuclear power plants, nuclear weapon tests, and medical practice. Due to the biophilic character of iodine radionuclides and their enormous biomagnification potential, their elimination from contaminated environments is essential to prevent the spread of radioactive pollution in ecosystems. Since microorganisms play a vital role in controlling iodine cycling and fate in the environment, they also can be efficiently utilized in solving the issue of contamination spread. Thus, this paper summarizes all known on microbial processes that are involved in iodine transformation to highlight their prospects in remediation of the sites contaminated with radioactive iodine isotopes.

Incidental Indeterminate Renal Lesions: Distinguishing Non-Enhancing from Potential Enhancing Renal Lesions Using Iodine Quantification on Portal Venous Dual-Layer Spectral CT

The purpose of our study is to determine a threshold for iodine quantification to distinguish definitely non-enhancing benign renal lesions from potential enhancing masses on portal venous dual-layer spectral computed tomography (CT) to reduce the need for additional multiphase CT. In this single-center retrospective study, patients (≥18 years) scanned between April 2021 and January 2023 following the local renal CT protocol were included. Exclusion criteria were patients without renal lesions, lesions smaller than 10 mm, only fat-containing lesions, abscesses or infarction, follow-up after radiofrequent ablation, wrong scan protocol, or artefacts. Scans were performed on a dual layer detector-based spectral CT (CT 7500, Philips Healthcare, Best, The Netherlands). Iodine concentration (mgI/mL) in renal lesions was determined using spectral data. Analyses were performed for all lesions and for lesions of >30 HU on portal venous CT. Enhancement on multiphase CT (≥20 ΔHU from true unenhanced (TUE) to portal venous phase (PVP) CT) was used as reference standard. To determine thresholds for iodine concentration receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, area under the curve (AUC) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. To obtain thresholds for definite (non-)enhancement, 100% sensitivity with maximum specificity and 100% specificity with maximum sensitivity were noted. Data were measured using one reader. To assess interobserver agreement, a second reader performed measurements on the PVP CT scans. A total of 103 patients (62 years ± 14, 68 men) were included. We measured 328 renal lesions, 56 enhancing lesions (17%) in 38 patients and 272 non-enhancing lesions (83%) in 86 patients. The threshold for non-enhancing lesions was 0.76 mgI/mL or lower (100% sensitivity, 76% specificity). The threshold for a definite enhancing mass was 1.69 mgI/mL or higher (100% specificity, 78% sensitivity). A total of 77% of indeterminate lesions (>30 HU on PVP CT) in our study could be definitely characterized. Renal lesions can be definitively classified as non-enhancing or enhancing on PVP spectral CT using thresholds of 0.76 mgI/mL or 1.69 mgI/mL, respectively, eliminating the need for multiphase imaging.

Antibacterial Effect and Therapy of Chronic Skin Defects Using the Composite Bioscaffold Polycaprolactone/GelitaSpon/Povidone-Iodine in Domestic Dogs

Chronic wounds and the failure of conventional treatment are relatively common in veterinary medicine. Recently, there has been a growing interest in alternative therapeutic approaches and the utilization of biodegradable materials. Their potential application in wound therapy may offer a novel and more suitable option compared to conventional treatment methods. Biodegradable materials can be classified into two main categories: natural, synthetic, and a combination of both, which have the potential to have synergistically enhanced properties. In this study, four domestic dogs with clinical symptoms of chronic wounds were enrolled. These wounds underwent treatment utilizing a novel biodegradable composite material composed of gelatin sponge combined with two electrospun layers of polycaprolactone (PCL) along with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) fibers containing povidone-iodine complex (PVP-I). The initial phase of the study was dedicated to evaluating the antibacterial properties of iodine against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. On average, wound healing in domestic dogs took 22 days from the initial treatment, and iodine concentrations demonstrated a significant antibacterial effect against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Based on the favorable outcomes observed in wound management, we believe that the utilization of a blend of natural and synthetic biodegradable materials holds promise as an effective wound therapy option.