Articles tagged with Zinc
Researchers discovered zinc's role in fighting UTI bacteria, identifying its toxic effects on UPEC cells and potential avenues for non-antibiotic treatment strategies. This knowledge could lead to new therapies that don't develop resistance like traditional antibiotics.
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.
Researchers created a damage-resistant rechargeable zinc battery with a cartilage-like solid electrolyte, extending flight time by 5 to 25 percent in drones. The batteries can withstand hard impacts and stabbing without losing voltage or starting a fire.
Genetic variations in metallothionein and zinc transporter genes impact zinc homeostasis and immune function. SNPs may influence the response to zinc supplementation in individuals with certain non-communicable diseases.
Researchers at NSLS-II produce 3D images of a single bacterial cell's chemical composition, identifying calcium and zinc distributions. The technique demonstrates high-resolution imaging capabilities for understanding cellular processes and developing medical treatments.
Researchers discovered a mechanistic link between zinc levels in neurons and the development of autism spectrum disorders, highlighting zinc's role in shaping synaptic connections. Zinc deficiency may contribute to autism through impaired synaptic maturation and neuronal circuit formation.
Researchers discovered that zinc can activate a molecule helping to shield against oxidative stress, which contributes to aging and illnesses. Zinc combined with polyphenols in foods like coffee, tea, and chocolate may provide natural protection.
Zinc oxide nanoparticles exhibit antibacterial, anticancer, and antioxidant effects, but also induce toxic effects on various organs and systems. Their concentration-dependent toxicity highlights the importance of determining efficacy and safety.
Researchers find that a previously unreported intermediate radical zinc oxo-alkoxide cluster with gapless electronic states is formed before the growth of semiconducting ZnO phase. The transformation from insulator to conductor-like material occurs rapidly, and further heating leads to semiconductor properties.
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.
Researchers have discovered a natural compound that can enhance the elimination of radioactive strontium from the body. The Zn-InsP6 complex has been shown to inhibit the absorption of strontium into the bloodstream and increase its excretion in the feces, potentially reducing radiation doses in humans.
Researchers have fabricated a new kind of dye sensitized solar cell using zinc oxide-graphene composites, exhibiting enhanced photoluminescence and increased conversion efficiency compared to bare ZnO devices. The polyol synthesis method is also shown to be environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
A new study found that increased CO2 levels in rice can lead to lower levels of four key B vitamins and reduced protein, iron, and zinc. The nutritional deficits could have a disproportionate impact on health outcomes in the poorest rice-dependent countries.
A study by researchers at Technical University of Munich found that alternative shotgun ammunition materials containing copper and zinc can be highly toxic to water organisms, potentially threatening environmental protection. The study suggests a ban on these materials may be necessary to replace lead shot.
Researchers found that zinc deficiency can negatively affect egg cell division, viability, and quality, which could impact fertility. The study suggests that micronutrient availability during oocyte maturation is critical for successful fertilization.
Researchers developed a highly reversible zinc metal anode for aqueous batteries, addressing safety concerns and increasing energy storage capacity. The new technology has the potential to replace conventional lithium-ion batteries in extreme conditions, such as aerospace and military applications.
Researchers at the University of Maryland have created a water-based zinc battery with high energy density, rechargeability, and intrinsic safety. The new technology combines old battery chemistry with a novel aqueous electrolyte, overcoming limitations of conventional lithium-ion batteries.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered the mechanism by which holes become trapped in zinc oxide nanoparticles, a material with potential for solar energy applications. The study uses X-ray techniques to visualize hole trapping in specific regions of the nanoparticle, revealing its impact on material performance.
Researchers warn of critical shortages of lithium and cobalt in the future, with post-lithium technologies like sodium-ion batteries offering alternatives. Upscaling production and recycling are key to reducing pressure on these resources.
Scientists successfully detected holes and identified their trapping sites after photoexcitation, revealing that photo-excited holes become trapped in substrate at singly charged oxygen vacancies. The detection opens up new insights for the development of devices and nanodevices based on transition metal oxides.
Researchers have created defect-free ZnO quantum dots with record-long luminescence lifetimes and resistance to chemical and biological environments. The new nanoparticles are biocompatible and safe for human use, offering hope for numerous applications in biology and medicine.
Researchers at Kumamoto University found that abnormalities in ion channels ENaC and CFTR reduce zinc delivery to lung epithelial cells, leading to excessive mucus production. This discovery sheds light on the role of zinc in pulmonary diseases and highlights the need for a therapeutic approach that considers transport mechanisms.
Researchers found a 10% decrease in serum zinc levels in women with prediabetes, highlighting the importance of zinc metabolism in diabetes pathogenesis. Zinc plays a crucial role in insulin synthesis and tissue susceptibility to hormones.
A new zinc sensor has been developed by researchers at the University of Adelaide, enabling real-time detection and measurement of zinc levels in cells. The sensor's innovative design allows for continuous or repeated measurements within a single biological sample, opening up new possibilities for diagnostic tools.
A new study by a University of Texas at Arlington researcher found that zinc supplements can significantly inhibit esophageal cancer cell growth without affecting normal cells. This discovery provides a potential pathway for better esophageal cancer prevention and treatment.
Researchers have identified a zinc transporter, ZIP4, that is overexpressed in pancreatic cancer cells, making it a potential target for new drugs. The study reveals the structure of ZIP4's core, which conducts zinc transport, and identifies an unprecedented fold for membrane transporters.
Researchers conclude that a daily supplement combining antioxidants with zinc and copper is a relatively inexpensive and effective means of halting the progression of degenerative eye disease. The study shows that this treatment could save the NHS nearly £3000 per patient, adding up to around £131 million a year.
Researchers found that seasnakes living in polluted areas have darker skin, which helps them bind and rid their bodies of contaminants. This is an example of industrial melanism, where dark-colored varieties thrive in industrial environments.
Researchers have successfully created a multi-nutrient rice variety that produces iron, zinc, and beta-carotene, addressing micronutrient deficiencies. The new rice lines could provide a solution to hidden hunger in Asia and Africa if they are widely adopted.
A 62-year-old man developed copper deficiency myelopathy (CDM) due to excessive zinc intake from denture fixative. The condition caused numbness, pain, and weakness in his legs, leading to complete loss of feeling.
A new generation of manganese dioxide-zinc batteries offers unprecedented cycle life and energy density, making it suitable for large grid storage applications. The breakthrough allows the battery to maintain its high energy density over 900 cycles, overcoming a major limitation of zinc-anode batteries.
Researchers found differences in immune system factors between men and women with bipolar disorder, particularly in zinc levels associated with depression severity in women. This study suggests that biological changes in the body could be used to diagnose the disease and tailor treatments differently for men and women.
Fertilizing crops with iron and zinc micronutrients can increase their levels in flour, according to a new study. The process of milling grains also boosts the availability of these nutrients in bread.
A new method for refining metals uses organic molecules and mechanical force to remove toxins, making it a more sustainable alternative to conventional techniques. The process has been successfully tested on several metals, including germanium, zinc, copper, manganese, and cobalt.
A study by University of Illinois researchers found that pharmacological levels of zinc oxide in pig diets reduce calcium and phosphorus digestibility. However, adding microbial phytase can improve digestibility and mitigate the negative effects of zinc on mineral absorption.
Researchers discover zinc's anti-inflammatory effects in treating liver disease, inhibiting IFN-λ3 protein that causes tissue damage. Serum zinc levels are genetically linked to chronic hepatitis C progression.
Researchers at UC San Diego developed a flexible and stretchable rechargeable battery that can power wearable sensors. The batteries use commercially available materials and are stable, allowing them to be worn for long periods.
Two randomized trials found that zinc lozenges reduced common cold duration by an average of 4.0 days and 1.77 days, but applying these effects to placebo groups resulted in impossible durations when using absolute scales. In contrast, percentage effects of 43% and 25% were realistic and more informative for communicating findings.
A meta-analysis of three randomized controlled trials shows that zinc acetate lozenges can increase the recovery rate from the common cold by 3 fold. The studies found no adverse effects at doses up to 92mg/day, making them a potentially effective treatment option.
Researchers at NRL's Chemistry Division developed a 3-D Zn sponge replacing powdered zinc anode in Ni-Zn batteries. The battery provides energy content and rechargeability rivaling lithium-ion while avoiding safety issues.
A recent study from Indiana University found that tiny changes in protein atom movement can significantly impact bacterial function and evolution. Researchers discovered that atomic motions play a major role in controlling protein activity, allowing bacteria to rapidly evolve new ways to overcome medical treatment.
Research by TUM found that low zinc levels can affect the heart's ability to deal with oxidative stress, leading to increased risk of heart disease. Zinc deficiency was also linked to upregulation of genes responsible for programmed cell death.
Researchers from Brookhaven National Laboratory have identified the active site in a commonly used catalyst for making methanol from CO2. They found that copper zinc oxide should give the best results, with a synergy between copper and zinc oxide accelerating the chemical transformation.
Swedish researchers used nanoelectrochemical measurements to study zinc's influence on neurotransmitter release. They found that zinc reduces the number of stored neurotransmitters but maintains the amount released upon stimulation.
Brown University researchers demonstrate the efficacy of using herbaceous plant specimens from the late 19th century to track changes in heavy metal concentrations over time. Despite challenges, including mercury contamination, they show significant reductions in lead concentrations and highlight broader trends in heavy metal accumulat...
Researchers analyzed zinc and volatile elements in trinitite glass, comparing it to lunar rocks. The study found similarities between the two, supporting the giant impact theory of the Moon's formation.
A new material developed by UC San Diego engineers can absorb a broad range of infrared wavelengths, enabling potential applications in cooling buildings and cars, enhancing solar cell efficiencies, and blocking thermal detection. The material's unique properties allow it to be customized for specific absorption ranges.
Researchers found that consuming zinc-enriched foods can reduce oxidative stress and DNA damage in humans. The study suggests a new strategy for measuring the impact of zinc on health, with implications for mitigating micronutrient deficiencies worldwide.
Chelating zinc has been shown to promote survival of neurons in the retina and stimulate repair of damaged nerve fibers. In a mouse model, researchers saw dramatic levels of axon regeneration after using zinc chelators.
A groundbreaking study in Nature Magazine explores the use of zinc oxide to improve semiconductors and energy output in electronic devices, promising increased efficiency and performance. The research has significant benefits for Marines on the ground and Sailors at sea, as well as global consumers.
A new biochemical study from Johns Hopkins researchers found that a common genetic variant associated with type 2 diabetes risk makes a protein that is more efficient than its less risky counterpart. The 'hyperactive' zinc transporter protein may be slowed down to lower diabetes risk, according to the findings.
Researchers mapped the structure of a portion of the NMDA receptor, which recognizes zinc and glutamate. The study provides insight into the regulation of NMDA receptors and their role in mental health disorders.
Researchers have created a qubit in zinc selenide, enabling the transfer of quantum information at the speed of light. The new technique shows that it is possible to create a qubit faster than with all existing methods.
Scientists have discovered a complex interaction between zinc and serum albumin, revealing multiple binding sites that facilitate the transport of zinc throughout the body. This finding provides new insights into how the body maintains delicate balances necessary for good health, known as homeostasis.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed a long-lasting zinc-ion battery that costs half the price of current lithium-ion batteries and provides high reversibility, rate, and capacity. The battery uses safe materials and a pH-neutral electrolyte, making it ideal for grid energy storage and renewable energy production.
Max Frenzel estimates that the annual global production of gallium and germanium could be at least 7 times higher than it is currently. Gallium production could reach 2,900 tonnes per year, while current production is 440 tonnes, and germanium production could reach 1,200 tonnes.
Researchers suggest that 'leaky gut' syndrome could be the cause of Olympic stomach upsets. The study found that zinc carnosine, taken alone or with bovine colostrum, may improve the performance of the mucosal barrier of the gut.
A study found that zinc carnosine can improve gut health and prevent leaky gut in athletes. The supplement, taken alone or with bovine colostrum, may help prevent heat stroke and other symptoms in active individuals.
The study provides a roadmap for targeting ZIP4, which is overexpressed in pancreatic cancer and plays a critical role in zinc transport, offering new hope for treating diseases like acrodermitis enteropathica and pancreatic cancer.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new method for producing clean hydrogen using photovoltaic water splitting, which can be used to power cars and store excess energy in the grid. The team also designed a novel rechargeable zinc battery with improved stability, enabling grid-scale energy storage.