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New 'metamaterial' practical for optical advances

Purdue researchers create new metamaterials by replacing traditional metals with aluminum-doped zinc oxide, offering improved performance and semiconductor compatibility. This breakthrough enables the development of ultra-powerful microscopes, advanced sensors, and more efficient solar collectors.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2012

Pneumonia wonder drug: Zinc saves lives

A new study published in BMC Medicine found that zinc supplements drastically improved children's survival rates from pneumonia when used alongside standard antibiotic therapy. The treatment was especially effective for HIV-infected children, who saw a 26-fold increase in survival rate.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateFeb 7, 2012

Zinc control could be path to breast cancer treatment

Researchers have identified a key switch that releases zinc into cells, which could be used to block cancer development and halt tumor growth. Zinc levels are controlled by protein molecules called zinc transporters, and understanding how these transporters release zinc has important implications for disease treatment.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScience Signaling·DateFeb 6, 2012

Rensselaer engineers 'cook' promising new heat-harvesting nanomaterials in microwave oven

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new way to decrease zinc oxide's thermal conductivity without reducing its electrical conductivity by adding aluminum. This innovation could lead to new technologies for harvesting waste heat and creating energy-efficient systems, such as cars, aircraft, and power plants.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 29, 2011

Zinc and the zebrafish

Scientists have developed a sensor to detect zinc in zebrafish, which could help understand the role of zinc in diseases like type 2 diabetes, prostate cancer, and Alzheimer's. The new technology has been successfully tested and is expected to aid further research into these conditions.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalChemical Communications·DateJul 2, 2011

New kind of optical fiber developed

Researchers have developed a new class of optical fibers using zinc selenide, enabling more efficient light manipulation and transmission in the infrared spectrum. This breakthrough has potential applications in medical lasers, countermeasure lasers, and environmental monitoring.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 1, 2011

Zinc reduces the burden of the common cold

A systematic review published in The Cochrane Library found that zinc supplements reduce the severity and duration of illness caused by the common cold. Zinc syrup, lozenges or tablets taken within a day of symptom onset reduced symptoms severity and length of illness.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateFeb 15, 2011

Milestone: A methane-metal marriage

Researchers have successfully created a metal-methane hybrid molecule by inserting metal atoms into methane gas molecules, potentially advancing industrial hydrocarbon chemistry. This discovery could lead to the creation of more complex and valuable products from simple compounds like methane.

Report examines relationship between nasal zinc gels and loss of sense of smell

A report examines the relationship between nasal zinc gels and loss of sense of smell in patients. The study found that intranasal zinc gluconate therapy may be associated with a permanent reduction in sense of smell due to chemical injury. Experts recommend increased FDA oversight for homeopathic medications to monitor their safety.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJul 19, 2010