Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Beyond conventional coatings: a spider-web-like mechanically adaptive interphase enables second-level ultrafast zinc metal batteries

Researchers developed a spider-web-like NBR nanofiber interphase to stabilize zinc metal anodes under extreme current densities. This interphase regulates ion transport, interfacial chemistry, and mechanical deformation, achieving long-life zinc metal batteries with stable cycling and high-power capability.

SourceMaterials Futures·JournalMaterials Futures·DateJul 16, 2026

FAU ‘shark-repellent’ method could reform fisheries by curbing bycatch

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have developed a patent-pending shark deterrent that can be used to reduce bycatch in fisheries. The device produces an electric field that repels sharks from bait without affecting target fish, and has been shown to reduce catches of coastal sharks by 62-70%.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2026

Multiscale theoretical calculations empower robust electric double layer toward highly reversible zinc anode

Researchers have developed a multiscale framework to engineer robust electric double layers, enhancing the performance of zinc anodes in aqueous rechargeable batteries. The study achieves over 4,700 cycle life and 90% capacity retention after 800 cycles using a low-cost sugar-derived additive.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateJan 8, 2026

Largest study of its kind highlights benefits – and risks – of plant-based diets in children

A large meta-analysis of over 48,000 children found that well-planned plant-based diets can support healthy growth and even offer additional health benefits for children. However, the study also highlights risks of deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin B12 and zinc if not obtained through fortified foods or supplements.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 12, 2025

Supplement trio shows promise in reversing autism-linked behaviors in mice

Researchers discovered a low-dose mixture of zinc, serine, and branch-chain amino acids can alleviate behavioral deficits in mouse models of autism by promoting neuronal communication and improving social behaviors. The combination was found to be effective at low doses, whereas individual supplements had no effect.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2025

Colombia’s biofortified rice has untapped potential to improve nutrition. And consumers want it

Biofortified rice in Colombia has high potential to improve nutrition and is preferred by consumers despite its increased zinc content, with a 41% premium over standard rice. The variety was developed to address zinc deficiency in the country's Caribbean region, where rates are 41% among children aged 1-4.

Love your neighbor as yourself: Zinc-centered materials serving as calcium-ion host could be well refined by its closest copper neighbor

Researchers developed Cu/Zn solid-solution phase hosts to overcome electrochemical limitations in multivalent metal ion batteries. The material's layered crystal structure and abundant interlayer confined species provide favorable diffusion pathways for charge carriers.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 29, 2025

A breakthrough in hydrogen catalysis: Electronic fine-tuning unlocks superior performance

Researchers develop a new electronic fine-tuning approach to enhance the interactions between zinc and ruthenium, resulting in a highly active and stable catalyst for both oxygen reduction reaction and hydrogen evolution reaction. This breakthrough offers a cost-effective alternative to conventional platinum-based catalysts.

Single-cell elemental analysis using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)

Scientists from Chiba University successfully analyzed human chronic myelogenous leukemia cells using a new sample introduction system, achieving accurate elemental composition measurements without damaging the cells. The study expands the potential of ICP-MS technology for mammalian cultured cell analysis.

SourceChiba University·JournalJournal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 22, 2025

In-situ magic: A game changer for stabilizing electrode/electrolyte interfaces in aqueous zinc batteries

Scientists introduce a novel approach to construct robust electrode/electrolyte interphase layers on both cathode and anode of aqueous zinc batteries. The use of glutamate additives enables efficient suppression of undesirable side reactions, leading to improved electrochemical performance and cycling stability.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2025

The science behind the foldable molecular paths

Researchers at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology developed foldable molecular paths using zeolitic imidazolate frameworks, which can adjust size, shape, and alignment in response to temperature, pressure, and gas interactions. This technology has potential applications in creating filters that adapt to capture harmful ...

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 6, 2025

Zinc deficiency promotes Acinetobacter lung infection: study

A new study found that zinc deficiency promotes lung infection by Acinetobacter baumannii bacteria, which is a leading cause of ventilator-associated pneumonia. Blocking IL-13 prevented infection-associated death in an animal model, suggesting anti-IL-13 antibodies may protect against bacterial pneumonia in patients with zinc deficiency.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2024

Heterostructure VO2@VS2 tailored by one-step hydrothermal synthesis for stable and highly efficient Zn-ion storage

Researchers from Qingdao University synthesized VO2@VS2 hollow nanospheres via one-step hydrothermal synthesis, creating a highly efficient cathode material for zinc-ion batteries. The heterostructure enhances battery performance with a reversible capacity of 468 mAh g−1 and 85% retention after 1000 cycles.

SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2024

Billions worldwide consume inadequate levels of micronutrients critical to human health

A new study found significant intake inadequacies for nearly all evaluated micronutrients, with iodine and vitamin E deficiencies being the most prevalent. The researchers estimated inadequate intakes were higher for women than men in some countries, highlighting a need for targeted dietary interventions.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 2024

Flexible artificial intelligence optoelectronic sensors towards health monitoring

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a flexible paper-based sensor that operates like the human brain, enabling low-power and efficient health monitoring. The device can distinguish 4-bit input optical pulses and generate currents in response to time-series optical input, with rapid response times.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2024

Scientists discover biological mechanism of hearing loss caused by loud noise – and find a way to prevent it

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a molecular mechanism behind noise-induced hearing loss, which affects millions of Americans. They found that excess zinc in the inner ear causes cellular damage and disrupts normal cell communication, leading to hearing loss.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 12, 2024

Move over lithium-ion: Zinc-air batteries a cheaper and safer alternative

A new study by Edith Cowan University has discovered zinc-air batteries as a superior alternative to lithium-ion, offering low costs, environmental benefits, and high theoretical energy density. The breakthrough redesigns the batteries using natural resources like zinc from Australia and air, enhancing their viability for sustainable e...

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalEcoMat·TypeObservational study·DateAug 21, 2023