Groundwater recharge/discharge patterns and groundwater-surface water interactions in a sedimentary aquifer along the River Kitinen in Sodankyla, northern Finland

Areas of groundwater-surface water interaction in riverbanks and open mires are important habitats for groundwater-dependent species. In order to preserve these ecosystems, the planning and development of mining operations on such locations require a fundamental understanding of the groundwater discharge-recharge and flow patterns. In this study. 3D flow modelling and a TIR survey were used to define the groundwater discharge. Simultaneously, the flow modelling and groundwater table fluctuation were used for defining groundwater recharge at a mining development site in northern Finland. The results indicated flow towards the River Kitinen and the discharge of groundwater in the banks of the river. The discharge also occurred within the mire area, which may provide suitable habitats for groundwater-dependent plant species. The modelling results and stable isotope variations indicated complex flow patterns and a potential groundwater connection from the Viiankiaapa mire through possible bedrock fractures to the river. Recharge mainly occurred in the sorted sediment accumulations of the riverbanks and partly also in the mire area.Peer reviewe

Early probiotic supplementation and the risk of celiac disease in children at genetic risk

Abstract Probiotics are linked to positive regulatory effects on the immune system. The aim of the study was to examine the association between the exposure of probiotics via dietary supplements or via infant formula by the age of 1 year and the development of celiac disease autoimmunity (CDA) and celiac disease among a cohort of 6520 genetically susceptible children. Use of probiotics during the first year of life was reported by 1460 children. Time-to-event analysis was used to examine the associations. Overall exposure of probiotics during the first year of life was not associated with either CDA (n = 1212) (HR 1.15; 95%CI 0.99, 1.35; p = 0.07) or celiac disease (n = 455) (HR 1.11; 95%CI 0.86, 1.43; p = 0.43) when adjusting for known risk factors. Intake of probiotic dietary supplements, however, was associated with a slightly increased risk of CDA (HR 1.18; 95%CI 1.00, 1.40; p = 0.043) compared to children who did not get probiotics. It was concluded that the overall exposure of probiotics during the first year of life was not associated with CDA or celiac disease in children at genetic risk