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Science News for November 16, 2025


When helping hurts: Why acts of goodwill can stall peace

A new study reveals that even seemingly well-intentioned initiatives to help the disadvantaged side of a conflict can produce negative consequences. When humanitarian aid is not coupled with genuine political change, it may lead to moral satisfaction and decreased support for meaningful concessions for peace.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalPeace and Conflict Journal of Peace Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2025

Nature-inspired solution softens impacts of hard coastal structures

Researchers developed artificial mangrove roots that mimic natural mangrove root systems, serving as an additional option to mitigate erosion in areas where hard structures have caused negative end effects. AMRs allow water to pass through and help reduce wave impact, promoting sediment retention and enhancing shoreline stability.

SourceOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research (OLAR)·JournalOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research·TypeObservational study·DateNov 16, 2025

Anionically-reinforced nanocellulose separator enables dual suppression of zinc dendrites and polyiodide shuttle for long-cycle Zn-I2 batteries

Researchers developed an anionically-reinforced nanocellulose separator to tackle zinc dendrite growth and polyiodide shuttle effects in Zn-I2 batteries. The new separator enables long-cycle stability, addressing major barriers to safe and sustainable energy storage.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2025

How a fish knows when to blend in

Researchers have identified the cells and connections underlying a fish's ability to dynamically change color to match its surroundings. The study found that specialized skin cells called melanophores control the color change, which helps the zebrafish evade predators by lightening its skin over tens of minutes.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 16, 2025

Interpretable machine intelligence for materials design of metal hydrides

Researchers developed a transparent and interpretable model to predict performance metrics of hydrogen storage materials, using atomic features as key descriptors. The model identified a fundamental trade-off between high capacity and suitable thermodynamic stability, revealing unique beryllium-based alloys with balanced characteristics.

Cryogenic X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveals native solid electrolyte interphase structure and dynamics in Li metal batteries

The study introduces a promising methodology for elucidating dynamic and heterogeneous chemical signatures across evolving solid-liquid interfaces. Researchers used cryo-XPS to analyze the native SEI composition, revealing a mixed organic-inorganic structure.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 16, 2025