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The pursuit of advanced materials to meet the escalating demands of energy storage system has led to the emergence of vertical graphene (VG) as a highly promising candidate. With its remarkable strength, stability, and conductivity, VG has gained significant attention for its potential to revolutionize energy storage technologies. This comprehensive review delves deeply into the synthesis methods, structural modifications, and multifaceted applications of VG in the context of lithium–ion batteries, silicon-based lithium batteries, lithium–sulfur batteries, sodium–ion batteries, potassium–ion batteries, aqueous zinc batteries, and supercapacitors. The review elucidates the intricate growth process of VG and underscores the paramount importance of optimizing process parameters to tailor VG for specific applications. Subsequently, the pivotal role of VG in enhancing the performance of various energy storage and conversion systems is exhaustively discussed. Moreover, it delves into structural improvement, performance tuning, and mechanism analysis of VG composite materials in diverse energy storage systems. In summary, this review provides a comprehensive look at VG synthesis, modification, and its wide range of applications in energy storage. It emphasizes the potential of VG in addressing critical challenges and advancing sustainable, high-performance energy storage devices, providing valuable guidance for the development of future technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrical conductivity of Na2O substituted zinc borate glasses has been studied in the frequency range of 10 mHz to 1 MHz and in the temperature range from 313 to 573 K. The conduction mechanism has been ascertained using the values of the frequency exponent (s) extracted from the fitting of experimental data of the real part of electric conductivity in light of the Almond–West equation. Depending on the glass composition, the ac conduction in the glasses happened via correlated barrier hopping and non-overlapping small polaron tunneling conduction models. The electric modulus studies support the assertion of composition dependent conduction mechanisms. Furthermore, electronic conduction and ionic conduction have been studied from impedance investigations. Equivalent circuit models were used to fit the Nyquist and Bode plots of each sample at the temperatures under consideration. It has been found that the activation energy values calculated from conductivity, electric modulus, and impedance measurements are more or less the same. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structure of zinc aluminosilicate glasses with the composition (ZnO)x(Al2O3)y(SiO2)1−x−y, where 0 ≤ x < 1, 0 ≤ y < 1, and x + y < 1, was investigated over a wide composition range by combining neutron and high-energy x-ray diffraction with 27Al magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The results were interpreted using an analytical model for the composition-dependent structure in which the zinc ions do not act as network formers. Four-coordinated aluminum atoms were found to be in the majority for all the investigated glasses, with five-coordinated aluminum atoms as the main minority species. Mean Al–O bond distances of 1.764(5) and 1.855(5) Å were obtained for the four- and five-coordinated aluminum atoms, respectively. The coordination environment of zinc was not observed to be invariant. Instead, it is dependent on whether zinc plays a predominantly network-modifying or charge-compensating role and, therefore, varies systematically with the glass composition. The Zn–O coordination number and bond distance were found to be 4.36(9) and 2.00(1) Å, respectively, for the network-modifying role vs 5.96(10) and 2.08(1) Å, respectively, for the charge-compensating role. The more open coordination environment of the charge-compensator is related to an enhanced probability of zinc finding bridging oxygen atoms as nearest-neighbors, reflecting a change in the connectivity of the glass network comprising four-coordinated silicon and aluminum atoms as the alumina content is increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trivalent Gd3+ ions are introduced as electrolyte additives to form an electrostatic shielding layer on the surface of the zinc anode, resulting in a highly stable and reversible zinc metal anode. [Display omitted] • The Gd3+ ions can form an electrostatic shielding layer on the zinc anode to promote the uniform deposition of Zn2+ ions. • The adsorbed Gd3+ ions acted as a buffer interface, reducing the direct contact between the zinc anode and H 2 O and thus inhibiting the interfacial parasitic reaction. • The Zn//Zn and Zn//MnO 2 cells exhibit extended cycle life and enhanced rate capability. Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) have become an ideal candidate for large-scale energy storage systems owing to their inherent safety and highly competitive capacity. However, severe dendrite growth and side reactions on the surface of zinc metal anodes lead to quick performance deterioration, seriously impeding the commercialization of AZIBs. In this work, a self-regulated zinc metal/electrolyte interface is constructed to solve these problems by incorporating the trivalent Gd3+ additive with a lower effective reduction potential into the aqueous ZnSO 4 electrolyte. It is revealed that the inert Gd3+ ions preferentially adsorb on the active sites of the zinc anode, and the induced electrostatic shielding layer is beneficial to uniform Zn deposition. Meanwhile, the adsorbed Gd3+ ions act as a buffer interface to lower the direct contact of the zinc anode with water molecules, thereby suppressing the interfacial parasitic reaction. These features endow the Zn//Zn battery using 0.2 M Gd3+ ions with 2940 h of cycling life at 5 mA cm−2 and a cumulative plating capacity (CPC) of 6.2 Ah cm−2 at 40 mA cm−2. When assembling with a MnO 2 cathode, the full cell using the modified electrolyte exhibits a high capacity of 268.9 mAh/g at 0.2 A/g, as well as improved rate capability and cycle stability. The results suggest the great potential of a rare earth ion additive in reinforcing Zn metal anodes for developing practical AZIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the search for alternative energy and chemical sources in response to the depletion of fossil resources. It focuses on the synthesis of furanic diols from biomass feedstocks using a zinc/bismuth-mediated allylation reaction. The authors propose a user-friendly, inexpensive, and high-yielding green method for the synthesis of biobased diols. The article provides experimental results, optimization of reaction conditions, and a protocol for the synthesis of various allyl-substituted diols. It also includes chemical data and synthesis procedures for various compounds. The document concludes with an acknowledgment and dedication to Prof. Dennis Curran. [Extracted from the article]

A facile metalation of Schiff base organic polymer, Te-TETA obtained from terephthalaldehyde and triethylenetetramine, with zinc to produce metalated organic polymer, Te-TETA-Zn has been reported here. Both Te-TETA and Te-TETA-Zn were analyzed by various analytical techniques viz. FT-IR, PXRD, FE-SEM, EDX, XPS, TGA and BET. Further, HR-TEM images of metalated organic polymer, Te-TETA-Zn was also recorded. EDX and XPS analyses clearly revealed the metalation of Zn in the organic polymer. Further, a huge transformation from the spherical morphology of Te-TETA to the flattened structure in Te-TETA-Zn can be seen in the FE-SEM and TEM images endorsing the successful coordination of zinc with the N-coordinating sites. An investigation of the catalytic activity of Te-TETA-Zn in combination with tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB, 2 mol%) reveals it to be an efficient heterogeneous catalyst component for the chemical fixation of CO2 to epoxides producing cyclic carbonate products (up to 99% conversion) under reaction conditions [Te-TETA-Zn (20 mg), TBAB (2 mol%), 5 bar CO2 pressure, 60 °C, 4 h]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the effects of Glycine Betaine, Zinc, and Boron elements on the yield and nutritional status of rainfed Cicer arietinum, a factorial experiment, was conducted during the 2019 and 2020 cropping years in Mahabad city. The experiment followed a randomized complete block design with three replications. The experimental factors included soil application of zinc sulfate at two levels (40 kg/ha and no zinc application), foliar application of boron at three levels (no use, before, and after flowering with 3 kg per 1000 L of water), and foliar application of Glycine Betaine at three levels (no use, flowering, and after flowering with 1.88 g/L). The results indicated that the year significantly affected grain yield, biological yield, and uptake of boron and zinc. The treatments involving boron and Glycine Betaine showed an increasing effect on plant height, total chlorophyll, soluble sugar, Glycine Betaine, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per plant, 100-seed weight, grain yield, biological yield, nitrogen percentage, boron concentration, and grain protein percentage. The highest grain yield (1549.15 kg. ha−1) in the treatment without zinc application and with simultaneous application of boron and Glycine Betaine after flowering resulted in a 34.58% increase compared to the control. The foliar application of Glycine Betaine and boron in the pre-and post-flowering stages and boron in the post-flowering stage resulted in the highest grain nitrogen uptake at 60.2%. Also, the result showed that no Glycine Betaine and boron application before flowering exhibited the highest soluble sugar content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction of P and Zn is a crucial factor affecting plant growth and yield. The aim of this study was to investigate the combined effects of P and Zn on P-Zn distribution in safflower tissues and seed yield. A two-year study was conducted in farmer fields in northeastern Turkey during 2014 and 2015 years. P applications consisted of four levels (0, 3, 6 and 9 kg P2O5 da−1) that were allotted to the main plots. Sub-plots were composed of three Zn levels (0, 0.5 and 1 kg Zn da−1). The results showed that P and Zn applications had a significant effect on the P and Zn concentration of straw, head, seed, and yield. P concentration in straw, head, and seed increased significantly with increasing P and Zn levels. Zn concentration decreased with high P levels compared to the control, while it increased with increasing Zn levels regardless of P application. At low P levels, yield did not respond to Zn treatments; however, at high P doses, Zn application resulted in a dramatic increase in yield compared to the control. In order to increase seed yield, instead of P and Zn sole application, their combined application was very effective, and doses of 9 kg P2O5 da−1 and 0.5 kg Zn da−1 showed the optimum performance. In conclusion, this study revealed that in P- and Zn-deficient soil, P treatments increased seed yield remarkably, but the combined application of P and Zn resulted in even higher yield increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc is an essential micronutrient for all living organisms. When challenged by zinc‐limiting conditions, Arabidopsis thaliana plants use a strategy centered on two transcription factors, bZIP19 and bZIP23, to enhance the expression of several zinc transporters to improve their zinc uptake capacity. In the zinc and cadmium hyperaccumulator plant Arabidopsis halleri, highly efficient root‐to‐shoot zinc translocation results in constitutive local zinc deficiency in roots and in constitutive high expression of zinc deficiency‐responsive ZIP genes, supposedly boosting zinc uptake and accumulation. Here, to disrupt this process and to analyze the functions of AhbZIP19, AhbZIP23 and their target genes in hyperaccumulation, the genes encoding both transcriptional factors were knocked down using artificial microRNAs (amiRNA). Although AhbZIP19, AhbZIP23, and their ZIP target genes were downregulated, amiRNA lines surprisingly accumulated more zinc and cadmium compared to control lines in both roots and shoot driving to shoot toxicity symptoms. These observations suggested the existence of a substitute metal uptake machinery in A. halleri to maintain hyperaccumulation. We propose that the iron uptake transporter AhIRT1 participates in this alternative pathway in A. halleri. Summary statement: Reduced expression of the zinc deficiency transcription factors bZIP19 and bZIP23 increases zinc and cadmium accumulation in roots and shoot, causes zinc retention in roots and results in cadmium sensitivity in the zinc and cadmium hyperaccumulator plant Arabidopsis halleri. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When applied in the same concentration to tomato plants, cadmium sulfate (CdSO4) and zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) were transported from soil to roots and from roots to shoots more readily than their nano counterparts: cadmium sulfide quantum dots (CdS QD) and zinc sulfide quantum dots (ZnS QD). Compared to the CdS QD, he higher rate of transport of CdSO4 resulted in a greater negative effect on growth, chlorophyll content, antioxidant properties, lipid peroxidation and activation of antioxidant defence systems. Although ZnSO4 was transported more rapidly than ZnS QD, the overall effect of Zn addition was positive (increase in total plant mass, stem length, antioxidant content and decrease in lipid peroxidation). However, these effects were more pronounced in the case of ZnS QD, suggesting that the mechanisms underpinning the activity of ZnS QD and ZnSO4 were different. Thus, the risk of phytotoxicity and food chain transfer of the two elements depended on their form (salt or nanoform), and consequently their effects on plants' growth and physiology were different. This work elucidates the mechanisms underlying the responses of CdS QD and ZnS QD in contrast to those of their corresponding salts on tomato plants. Our results showed that faster transport from roots to leaves in the case of salts in respect to the nanoform augment their detrimental impact on tomato's antioxidant properties and growth and make the nanoform of both a better alternative for crop application either as fertilizers or as pesticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are brucite-like nanomaterials that have been used to immobilize several enzymes. However, layered hydroxide salts (LHSs), another group of brucite-like nanomaterials, have not yet been used for enzyme immobilization. In this work, we prepared two types of layered hydroxide salts, zinc hydroxide nitrate (ZHN: Zn5(OH)8(NO3)2.2H2O) and zinc hydroxide chloride (ZHC: Zn5(OH)8Cl2.H2O) and used them to immobilize Pseudomonas cepacia lipase (LipPS). The best protein loading for both ZHN and ZHC was 162.5 mg g−1 of LHS, which gave high values of triolein-hydrolyzing activity in organic medium (103 U g−1 for LipPS-ZHN and 105 U g−1 for LipPS-ZHC), immobilization efficiencies above 90% and activity retentions above 170%. In the kinetic resolution of (R,S)-1-phenylethanol, LipPS-ZHN gave better results, with 50% conversion being obtained in 2 h and an ees of 99%. With LipPS-ZHC, the conversion at 2 h was 40% and the ees, was lower, only 73%. For both immobilized materials, the eep was higher than 99% and E was higher than 200. The immobilized materials were stable after 5 cycles of reuse in successive 2-h kinetic resolutions. These results demonstrate that the layered hydroxide salts ZHN and ZHC have good potential as supports for the immobilization of lipases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc, an essential trace mineral, exerts a pivotal influence in various biological processes. Through zinc concentration analysis, we found that the zinc concentration in the bovine embryo in vitro culture (IVC) medium was significantly lower than that in bovine follicular fluid. Therefore, this study explored the impact of zinc sulfate on IVC bovine embryo development and investigated the underlying mechanism. The results revealed a significant decline in zygote cleavage and blastocyst development rates when zinc deficiency was induced using zinc chelator N, N, N′, N′-Tetrakis (2-pyridylmethyl) ethylenediamine (TPEN) in culture medium during embryo in vitro culture. The influence of zinc-deficiency was time-dependent. Conversely, supplementing 0.8 μg/mL zinc sulfate to culture medium (CM) increased the cleavage and blastocyst formation rate significantly. Moreover, this supplementation reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, elevated the glutathione (GSH) levels in blastocysts, upregulated the mRNA expression of antioxidase-related genes, and activated the Nrf2-Keap1-ARE signaling pathways. Furthermore, 0.8 μg/mL zinc sulfate enhanced mitochondrial membrane potential, maintained DNA stability, and enhanced the quality of bovine (in vitro fertilization) IVF blastocysts. In conclusion, the addition of 0.8 μg/mL zinc sulfate to CM could enhance the antioxidant capacity, activates the Nrf2-Keap1-ARE signaling pathways, augment mitochondrial membrane potential, and stabilizes DNA, ultimately improving blastocyst quality and in vitro bovine embryo development. • Zinc sulfate could enhance the quality and developmental capacity of bovine IVF embryos. • Zinc sulfate could reduce ROS levels, increase GSH levels, and promote the antioxidant ability of bovine early embryos. • Zinc sulfate could promote mitochondrial membrane potential and DNA stability of bovine IVF embryos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe objective of the study is to determine the most effective induction heating parameters for melting pure zinc selectively over the mild steel substrate surface. The numerical simulation on effect of induction heating parameters on the mild steel substrate is studied using COMSOL Multiphysics 5.6 software. The optimised effective parameters are used for the experimental analysis for the validation. Variables such as coil configuration, stand-off distance (SOD), coil current and frequency were systematically changed, and optimal settings were chosen on the basis of time temperature contour curve and the heating rate within the material. Results of the numerical analysis portrayed that a pancake coil geometrical configuration, SOD of 2 mm, coil current of 300 A and alternating frequency of 300 kHz were found as the optimum set of parameters for the effective surface repair. An experimental investigation was carried out by depositing a thin layer of zinc on mild steel substrate using the optimized parameters. The surface integrity of the coated specimen was examined through the high-resolution optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction and electron back scattered diffraction (EBSD) techniques. The hardness property of the coated specimen was examined with a Vickers microhardness tester. The microstructure analysis and hardness measurement showed that consistent coating is achieved without affecting the base metal/substrate properties. The experimental results very much coincide with the numerical simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The study of the total content of essential minerals in food is important; however, only these values do not provide truly accurate information regarding their nutritional value. Bioaccessibility and bioavailability are key concepts that provide us with more precise information about these values. This study focuses on quantifying calcium, iron, magnesium and zinc in adult supplementation samples, specifically fortified dairy products (FDP) and modified enteral and oral nutrition formulas (EONF) for adults. The samples used in this work were digested using nitric acid and oxygen peroxide to quantify the total contents of Ca, Fe, Mg and Zn. The effectiveness of the acid decomposition procedure was evaluated through an accuracy test using the NIST 1547 certified sample, which exhibited recovery percentages of 97% for Ca, 95% for Fe, 101% for Mg and 90% for Zn. To assess bioaccessibility, extraction procedures were conducted using the in vitro Simple Bioaccessibility Extraction Test (SBET). The bioaccessibility ranges, expressed as percentages, were 14%–62% for Ca, 23%–65% for Fe, 21%–46% for Mg and 33%–64% for Zn. Based on the results, it can be concluded that evaluating bioaccessibility is important for assessing the nutritional content of adult supplementation, as the labelled contents are not always accessible to the body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saline-sodic stress can limit the absorption of available zinc in rice, subsequently impacting the normal photosynthesis and carbohydrate metabolism of rice plants. To investigate the impact of exogenous zinc application on photosynthesis and carbohydrate metabolism in rice grown in saline-sodic soil, this study simulated saline-sodic stress conditions using two rice varieties, 'Changbai 9' and 'Tonghe 899', as experimental materials. Rice seedlings at 4 weeks of age underwent various treatments including control (CT), 2 μmol·L−1 zinc treatment alone (Z), 50 mmol·L−1 saline-sodic treatment (S), and 50 mmol·L−1 saline-sodic treatment with 2 μmol·L−1 zinc (Z + S). We utilized JIP-test to analyze the variations in excitation fluorescence and MR820 signal in rice leaves resulting from zinc supplementation under saline-sodic stress, and examined the impact of zinc supplementation on carbohydrate metabolism in both rice leaves and roots under saline-sodic stress. Research shows that zinc increased the chloroplast pigment content, specific energy flow, quantum yield, and performance of active PSII reaction centers (PIABS), as well as the oxidation (VOX) and reduction rate (Vred) of PSI in rice leaves under saline-sodic stress. Additionally, it decreased the relative variable fluorescence (WK and VJ) and quantum energy dissipation yield (φDO) of the rice. Meanwhile, zinc application can reduce the content of soluble sugars and starch in rice leaves and increasing the starch content in the roots. Therefore, the addition of zinc promotes electron and energy transfer in the rice photosystem under saline-sodic stress. It enhances rice carbohydrate metabolism, improving the rice plants' ability to withstand saline-sodic stress and ultimately promoting rice growth and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofortification increases micronutrient content in staple crops through conventional breeding, agronomic methods, or genetic engineering. Bioaccessibility is a prerequisite for a nutrient to fulfill a biological function, e.g., to be bioavailable. The objective of this systematic review is to examine the bioavailability (and bioaccessibility as a proxy via in vitro and animal models) of the target micronutrients enriched in conventionally biofortified crops that have undergone post-harvest storage and/or processing, which has not been systematically reviewed previously, to our knowledge. We searched for articles indexed in MEDLINE, Agricola, AgEcon, and Center for Agriculture and Biosciences International databases, organizational websites, and hand-searched studies' reference lists to identify 18 studies reporting on bioaccessibility and 58 studies on bioavailability. Conventionally bred biofortified crops overall had higher bioaccessibility and bioavailability than their conventional counterparts, which generally provide more absorbed micronutrient on a fixed ration basis. However, these estimates depended on exact cultivar, processing method, context (crop measured alone or as part of a composite meal), and experimental method used. Measuring bioaccessibility and bioavailability of target micronutrients in biofortified and conventional foods is critical to optimize nutrient availability and absorption, ultimately to improve programs targeting micronutrient deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work a family of multidimensional (2‐(1H‐tetrazol‐5‐yl)ethyl) amino acid coordination compounds have been synthesized and thoroughly characterized. For this purpose, glycine, valine, phenylalanine and tyrosine have been selected as starting amino acids and Mn2+, Zn2+ and Cd2+ as metallic nodes. From one side, for Mn2+ based dimer magnetic resonance imaging studies have been conducted, prompted by the number and disposition of the coordinated water molecules and taking into consideration the promising future of manganese‐based coordination compounds as bio‐compatible substitutes to conventional Gd based contrast agents. From another side, d10 block metal‐based complexes allowed exploring photoluminescence properties derived by in situ synthesized ligands. Finally, amino acid preserved structural chirality allowed us to examine chiroptical properties, particularly focusing on circularly polarized luminescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The catalytic activity of zinc(II) compounds was exploited in the nucleophilic addition of amines to nitriles to form amidines. The reaction systems comprised a Zn(II) starting material [Zn(quin)2(H2O)] (quin− = quinaldinate, an anion of quinaldinic acid), secondary cyclic amine, acetonitrile, and in some cases, methanol. Amines with additional heteroatoms in the ring (thiomorpholine, piperazine) or ring substituents (piperidine derivatives, piperazine derivatives) with different steric and electronic effects were used. The aim of the study was to determine how the nature of the amine affects the formation of amidines. Different types of Zn(II) products were obtained: mono- or diamine complexes, amidine complexes, and also an ionic compound with a protonated amine. In one case, the amidine itself crystallized. A Zn(II) complex with acetamidine was also obtained. Acetamidine was formed from acetonitrile and ammonia, which most likely originated from the hydrolysis of acetonitrile under harsh reaction conditions. The hydrolysis could terminate at the acetamide step, which was confirmed by the isolation of a cocrystal containing acetamide. In the case of piperazine (pz), a polymeric compound with the composition [Zn(quin)2(pz)]n was isolated regardless of the reaction conditions. The same coordination polymer was also observed to form in 1-methylpiperazine, 1-ethylpiperazine, and 1-acetylpiperazine reaction systems, containing piperazine as an inherent impurity. This was unambiguously confirmed by the crystal structure of a cocrystal, [Zn(quin)2(1-Acpz)2]·[Zn(quin)2(pz)]n·4CH3CN, which formed in the 1-acetylpiperazine (1-Acpz) reaction system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zn deposition with a surface‐preferred (002) crystal plane has attracted extensive attention due to its inhibited dendrite growth and side reactions. However, the nucleation and growth of the Zn(002) crystal plane are closely related to the interfacial properties. Herein, oriented growth of Zn(002) crystal plane is realized on Ag‐modified surface that is directly visualized by in situ atomic force microscopy. A solid solution HCP‐Zn (~1.10 at. % solubility of Ag, 30 °C) is formed on the Ag coated Zn foil (Zn@Ag) and possesses the same crystal structure as Zn to reduce its nucleation barrier caused by their lattice mismatch. It merits oriented Zn deposition and corrosion‐resistant surface, and presents long cycling stability in symmetric cells and full cells coupled with V2O5 cathode. This work provides insights into interfacial regulation of Zn anodes for high‐performance aqueous zinc metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zn metal as a promising anode of aqueous batteries faces severe challenges from dendrite growth and side reactions. Here, tetraphenylporphyrin tetrasulfonic acid (TPPS) is explored as an electrolyte additive for advanced Zn anodes. It is interesting to note that TPPS spontaneously assembles into unique aggregates. As they adsorb on the Zn anode, the aggregates enhance the resistance to electrolyte percolation and dendrite growth compared to single molecules. Meanwhile, TPPS facilitates anion association in the solvation sheath of Zn2+, and boosts the transference number of Zn2+ up to 0.95. Therefore, anion‐related side reactions and anion‐induced electrode overpotentials are reduced accordingly. In this context, the electrolyte containing TPPS exhibits excellent electrochemical performance. Even under a high loading of MnO2 (25 mg cm−2), a limited Zn supply (N/P ratio=1.7), and a lean electrolyte (15 μL mAh−1), the full cells still represent a higher cumulative capacity compared to the reported data. The advantages of this electrolyte are also adapted to other cathode materials. The pouch cells of Zn||NaV3O8 ⋅ 1.5H2O realize a capacity of ~0.35 Ah at 0.4 C under harsh conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zn deposition with a surface‐preferred (002) crystal plane has attracted extensive attention due to its inhibited dendrite growth and side reactions. However, the nucleation and growth of the Zn(002) crystal plane are closely related to the interfacial properties. Herein, oriented growth of Zn(002) crystal plane is realized on Ag‐modified surface that is directly visualized by in situ atomic force microscopy. A solid solution HCP‐Zn (~1.10 at. % solubility of Ag, 30 °C) is formed on the Ag coated Zn foil (Zn@Ag) and possesses the same crystal structure as Zn to reduce its nucleation barrier caused by their lattice mismatch. It merits oriented Zn deposition and corrosion‐resistant surface, and presents long cycling stability in symmetric cells and full cells coupled with V2O5 cathode. This work provides insights into interfacial regulation of Zn anodes for high‐performance aqueous zinc metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zn metal as a promising anode of aqueous batteries faces severe challenges from dendrite growth and side reactions. Here, tetraphenylporphyrin tetrasulfonic acid (TPPS) is explored as an electrolyte additive for advanced Zn anodes. It is interesting to note that TPPS spontaneously assembles into unique aggregates. As they adsorb on the Zn anode, the aggregates enhance the resistance to electrolyte percolation and dendrite growth compared to single molecules. Meanwhile, TPPS facilitates anion association in the solvation sheath of Zn2+, and boosts the transference number of Zn2+ up to 0.95. Therefore, anion‐related side reactions and anion‐induced electrode overpotentials are reduced accordingly. In this context, the electrolyte containing TPPS exhibits excellent electrochemical performance. Even under a high loading of MnO2 (25 mg cm−2), a limited Zn supply (N/P ratio=1.7), and a lean electrolyte (15 μL mAh−1), the full cells still represent a higher cumulative capacity compared to the reported data. The advantages of this electrolyte are also adapted to other cathode materials. The pouch cells of Zn||NaV3O8 ⋅ 1.5H2O realize a capacity of ~0.35 Ah at 0.4 C under harsh conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The creation of hierarchical nanostructures can effectively strengthen phonon scattering to reduce lattice thermal conductivity for improving thermoelectric properties in inorganic solids. Here, we use Zn doping to induce a remarkable reduction in the lattice thermal conductivity in SnTe, approaching the theoretical minimum limit. Microstructure analysis reveals that ZnTe nanoprecipitates can embed within SnTe grains beyond the solubility limit of Zn in the Zn alloyed SnTe. These nanoprecipitates result in a substantial decrease of the lattice thermal conductivity in SnTe, leading to an ultralow lattice thermal conductivity of 0.50 W m−1 K−1 at 773 K and a peak ZT of ~0.48 at 773 K, marking an approximately 45 % enhancement compared to pristine SnTe. This study underscores the effectiveness of incorporating ZnTe nanoprecipitates in boosting the thermoelectric performance of SnTe‐based materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionMethodsResultsConclusionsOxidative stress (OS) has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases in numerous epidemiological studies; however, whether it is a pathogenesis or a downstream factor remains controversial.A two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was implemented to examine evidence of causality of 15 OS injury markers with 3 major neurodegenerative diseases using available genome-wide association studies statistics. As a main approach, inverse-variance weighted (IVW) analysis was performed. The weighted-median (WM) analysis was used to validate the relationship. In order to investigate the existence of horizontal pleiotropy and correct the IVW estimate, the Radial MR approach was applied. To gauge the consistency and robustness of the findings, several sensitivity and pleiotropy analyses were used. For this analysis, p < 0.05 indicates a nominally causal association; according to the Bonferroni correction test, p < 0.0011 indicates a statistically significant causal association.Via IVW and WM, in directional MR, it was genetically predicted that zinc was nominally causally correlated with the risk of Parkinson’s disease but not after Bonferroni correction test; alpha-tocopherol was nominally causally correlated with the risk of Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) but not after Bonferroni correction test; furthermore, in reverse MR, it was genetically predicted that Alzheimer’s disease was causally correlated with uric acid but not after Bonferroni correction test. These above findings were stable across sensitivity and pleiotropy analyses.Based on the current study, there is no authentic genetic causal association between OS biomarkers and neurodegenerative diseases. The complex relationship is required to be confirmed in future experimental research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Waelz slag generated during electric arc furnace dust processing is an iron-rich product with significant amounts of iron, zinc and copper. About 600–800 kg of the Waelz slag is generated per ton of the dust processed. The Waelz slag samples from two different plants were thoroughly characterized using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), chemical phase analysis, Mössbauer spectroscopy and other supporting methods. The phase distribution of iron, zinc and copper was determined in the Waelz slag samples. Low-intensity wet magnetic separation was tested for the iron recovery from the Waelz slag samples. It was found that the Waelz slag samples have complex chemical and mineralogical compositions, which can impede the selective recovery of valuable elements. The obtained results indicate that the chemical and mineralogical composition of the Waelz slag samples has a considerable effect on the magnetic separation indexes. The experiments showed that the iron concentrates with Fe contents of 73% and 46.8% with the metallization degrees of 87.2% and 57.5% and the iron recovery degree of 54.8% and 52.9% were obtained at optimal conditions for two different samples, respectively, without selective segregation of Cu and Zn in the magnetic or non-magnetic fraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, we have observed the dynamic development of bio-heating plants that use wood biomass for heating or energy purposes. The result of this process is a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions as well as in the production of biomass ash (BA). Despite the waste nature of BA, it should be carefully analyzed and assessed for various applications, including environmental ones. Due to the features attributed to BA, including its alkaline reaction, the high capacity of its sorption complex, relatively low salinity, and significant content of macro- and microelements, a hypothesis was put forward in this work undertaken about the positive role of BA as an immobilizing factor for Cd-, Pb-, and Zn-contaminated soils. This research was based on a pot experiment in which four series were considered: (1) BA; (2) BA + Cd; (3) BA + Pb; and (4) BA + Zn. BA was used at doses of 30, 60, and 90 mg pot−1, and metals at doses of 2 mg Cd, 100 mg Pb, and 300 mg Zn kg−1 of soil. The test plant was corn grown for green mass. The study took into account the influence of BA on the content of the total forms of heavy metals (Metot) and their available forms (Meav). In the soil without the addition of metals, a significant increase in the content of Cdtot and Cdav, and a decrease in the content of Zntot were observed due to the application of BA. The addition of metals against the background of the BA used resulted in a significant increase in Cdtot, Pbtot, and Zntot, as well as an increase in the available forms of Pbav but a decrease in Znav. However, there was no significant increase in the Cdav content. The obtained results may indicate the potentially immobilizing role of BA only in the case of zinc. They may constitute the basis for further, more detailed research aimed at determining the role of BA in the immobilization of various metals in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study reports a sensitive method for trace zinc using slotted quartz tube-flame atomic absorption spectrometry (SQT-FAAS) with citric acid-coated magnetic nanoparticle-solid phase extraction (CAMNP-SPE). To increase the efficiency, we univariately optimized the pH, buffer volume, CAMNP mass, eluent concentration and volume, mixing type and time, temperature, and interaction time. The study identified the limits of detection and quantification values for CAMNP-SPE-SQT-FAAS under the specified optimum conditions to be 12.30 and 41.00 μg L−1, respectively. The newly developed method improved the detection power of traditional FAAS by 13.25 times. The findings of this study report a sensitive and accurate method to determine trace zinc in complex matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We synthesized and characterized bioactive metal (II) complexes from a pyrimidine‐based Schiff base ligand, 4‐[2‐(4‐chlorobenzylidene) hydrazinyl]‐7H‐pyrrolo[2,3‐d]pyrimidine. Through thorough elemental analysis and various physicochemical techniques, we characterized both the ligand and its Zn(II), Cd(II), and Hg(II) complexes. Coordination of the metallic ion was established via nitrogen atoms from the ligand's pyrrolo and pyrimidine rings, yielding tetrahedral complexes of the type [M(PPHpCB)2]. These complexes are identified as non‐electrolytes due to their low molar conductance. Furthermore, we investigated the coordination behavior of the pyrimidine‐based Schiff base ligand (HPPHpCB) with metal ions through comprehensive spectroscopic analysis. 1H NMR spectral data showed bonding between HPPHpCB and metal ions, while UV spectra confirmed intra‐ligand and ligand‐to‐metal charge transfer transitions, indicating coordination through nitrogen atoms. The determination of tetrahedral geometry for metal complexes confirmed their diamagnetic properties. Analysis using 13C NMR and electrospray ionization mass spectra (ESI‐MS) revealed variations in chemical shifts, confirming successful complex formation and elucidating structural modifications, electronic interactions, and metal–ligand coordination modes. Moreover, evaluation of in vitro antimicrobial activities using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) approach revealed significant antibacterial and antifungal activities for Hg(II) and Cd(II) complexes, respectively. The Hg(II) complex displayed superior antioxidant activity, while Zn(II) and Cd(II) complexes also demonstrated considerable potential. In vivo, cytotoxicity assessments against Artemia salina provided insights into the cytotoxic properties of ligands and metal complexes. Computational techniques suggested their potential in combating infectious ailments. Overall, our study establishes the synthesis, characterization, and multifaceted biological activities of metal (II) complexes derived from the pyrimidine‐based Schiff base ligand, highlighting their promising role in combating various infectious diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of a new generation of anticorrosion pigments for paints remains an important challenge to replace the usual sparingly-soluble pigments and thus avoid the dissemination of heavy metals in the environment and the formation of holes in polymer coatings. For this purpose, α-zirconium hydrogenophosphate (Zr(HPO4)2·H2O, denoted as α-ZrP) was intercalated with the corrosion inhibitor 2-aminobenzimidazole (ABIM). Various microstructural analyses have proven the insertion of ABIM in the interlayer space by an acid–base exchange reaction and allowed us to propose a structural model for the new ABIM-ZrP pigment. The anticorrosion properties on zinc of the ABIM-ZrP, characterized by electrochemical measurements in 0.1 M NaCl, are due to the release of ABIM molecules by an ion-exchange reaction and the pH-buffer effect of α-ZrP and the amine group of ABIM. Compared to the commercial aluminium tri-phosphate (ATP) pigment, an alkyd-polymer coating loaded with the ABIM-ZrP pigment shows very interesting electrochemical behaviour by avoiding the blistering of the polymer coating and the beginning of zinc corrosion. This effect may be due to both the tortuous effect brought by the platelet shape of the pigments and the release of ABIM once the water uptake of the polymer becomes significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wollastonite (CaSiO 3 , CS) has shown a great potential as a bone biomaterial due to its favorable degradation behavior and the beneficial silicon and calcium ions released during its degradation. However, the rapid degradation of CS may result in a rapid increase in local pH values and lead to cell death. To address this issue and further enhance the biocompatibility, osteogenic, angiogenic, and osteoclast differentiation inhibitory properties of CS; zinc (Zn) and strontium (Sr) ions were introduced into CS through an ion-doping method. The effects of Zn doping, Sr doping, and Zn/Sr co-doping on the crystal structure, in vitro mineralization, and cellular responses of CS were systematically investigated. The results indicated that Zn doping and Sr doping had no significant effect on the phase of CS, while Zn/Sr co-doping promoted the substitution of Zn and Sr ions for calcium ions. Moreover, the introduction of Zn and Sr ions slowed the degradation process of CS and inhibited its in vitro mineralization activity. Furthermore, while Zn doping and Sr doping significantly enhanced the cytocompatibility and osteogenesis of CS, respectively, Zn/Sr co-doping exhibited synergistic effects in enhancing the osteogenesis of CS. Interestingly, the introduction of Zn and Sr ions also improved the angiogenic properties of CS and increased its ability to inhibit osteoclast differentiation; however, there was no significant synergistic effect between Zn doping and Sr doping on these properties. In conclusion, Zn/Sr co-doped CS exhibits a more suitable degradation rate and enhanced bioactivity, presenting significant application prospects in the field of bone defect repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cloud point microextraction (CPME) with Triton X-114, as a nonionic surfactant, was applied for the extraction of zinc ethylene-1,2-bisdithiocarbamate (zineb) prior to its determination by flame-atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The optimum CPME conditions were obtained with 250 µL of Triton X-114 at a cloud point temperature of 30 °C in 20.0 mL of the sample solution whose pH had been adjusted to 7.00. Zineb was monitored at a wavelength of 213.0 nm. The limits of detection were found to range between 13.0 and 25.0 ng mL−1 and the coefficients of determination (R2) of the calibration graphs were between 0.9975 and 0.9994. The developed CPME-FAAS method was applied to extract and determine in food and environmental samples with percentage relative recoveries ranging from 90.6 to 105.4% with percentage relative standard deviations (%RSD) less than 7.5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A polycarbonyl polymer PNAQI was synthesized by a simple solvothermal method, the strong nucleophilic carbonyl oxygen on PNAQI can coordinate with zinc ions to induce uniform deposition of zinc and inhibit the growth of zinc dendrite, thereby demonstrating a long cycle life exceeding 1000 h at current density of 1.0 mA cm−2 and a capacity of 1.0 mAh cm−2. [Display omitted] • A polycarbonyl polymer PNAQI was synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method. • The strong nucleophilic carbonyl oxygen on PNAQI can coordinate with zinc ions to achieve the purpose of charge storage. • C O on PNAQI can induce uniform deposition of zinc and inhibit the growth of zinc dendrite, thereby effectively stabilizing zinc anodes. • The polycarbonyl polymer PNAQI coating exhibits low nucleation overpotential, excellent cycling performance, high coulombic efficiency, and excellent rate performance. The Zn anode of aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) have suffered from a series of rampant side reactions such as dendrite growth and corrosion, which seriously affect the reversibility and stability of Zn anodes. Herein, a polycarbonyl polymer poly(1,4,5,8-naphthalene tetracarboxylic anhydride anthraquinone) imine (PNAQI) as the protective coating is synthesized through a simple solvothermal method with the raw materials of the equimolar 1,4,5,8-naphthalenetetracarboxylic dianhydride (NTCDA) and 2, 6-aminoanthraquinone (2,6-DAAQ). A series of characterizations such as contact angle measurement and ex-situ XRD analysis confirm that it can effectively prevent some side reactions. Moreover, C O on PNAQI can regulate the uniform distribution of zinc, thereby preventing the occurrence of zinc dendrites. Finally, the PNAQI@Zn//PNAQI@Zn symmetrical cell demonstrates a long cycle life exceeding 1000 h at current density of 1.0 mA cm−2 and a capacity of 1.0 mAh cm−2. The result significantly outperforms the cycling performance of the cell with bare zinc anode. Especially, the full battery of PNAQI@Zn//NH 4 V 4 O 10 demonstrates an excellent capacity retention and prolonged cycle life (96.9 mAh/g after 1000 cycles at 1.0 A/g) compared to Zn//NH 4 V 4 O 10. This work provides an effective, simple and low-cost solution for developing high-performance AZIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The zinc-air battery (ZAB) performance and stability strongly depend on the structure of bifunctional electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction/evolution reaction (ORR/OER). In this work, we combine the tip and heterogeneous effects to construct cobalt/cobalt oxide heterostructure nanoarrays (Co/CoO-NAs). Due to the formed heterostructure, more oxygen vacancies are found for Co/CoO-NAs resulting in a 1.4-fold higher ORR intrinsic activity than commercial carbon supported platinum electrocatalyst (Pt/C) at 0.8 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (vs. RHE). Moreover, a fast surface reconstruction is observed for Co/CoO-NAs during OER catalysis evidenced by in-situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and Raman tests. In addition, the tip effect efficiently lowers the mass transfer resistance triggering a low overpotential of 347 mV at 200 mA cm−2 for Co/CoO-NAs. The strong electronic interplay between cobalt (Co) and cobalt oxide (CoO) contributes to a stable battery performance during 1200 h galvanostatic charge–discharge test at 5 mA cm−2. This work offers a new avenue to construct high-performance and stable oxygen electrocatalyst for rechargeable ZAB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc‐based aqueous batteries (ZABs) are attracting extensive attention due to the low cost, high capacity, and environmental benignity of the zinc anode. However, their application is still hindered by the undesired zinc dendrites. Despite Zn‐surface modification being promising in relieving dendrites, a thick separator (i.e. glass fiber, 250–700 μm) is still required to resist the dendrite puncture, which limits volumetric energy density of battery. Here, we pivot from the traditional interphase plus extra separator categories, proposing an all‐in‐one ligand buffer layer (ca. 20 μm) to effectively modulate the Zn2+ transfer and deposition behaviors proved by in situ electrochemical digital holography. Experimental characterizations and density functional theory simulations further reveal that the catechol groups in the buffer layer can accelerate the Zn2+ reduction reaction (ZRR) through the electron‐donating p‐π conjugation effect, decreasing the negative charge in the coordination environment. Without extra separators, the elaborated system endows low polarization below 28.2 mV, long lifespan of 4950 h at 5 mA cm−2 in symmetric batteries, and an unprecedented volumetric energy density of 99.2 Wh L−1 based on the whole pouch cells. The concomitantly "separator‐free" and "dendrite‐free" conjugation effect with an accelerated ZRR process could foster the progression of metallic anodes and benefit energetic aqueous batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc‐based aqueous batteries (ZABs) are attracting extensive attention due to the low cost, high capacity, and environmental benignity of the zinc anode. However, their application is still hindered by the undesired zinc dendrites. Despite Zn‐surface modification being promising in relieving dendrites, a thick separator (i.e. glass fiber, 250–700 μm) is still required to resist the dendrite puncture, which limits volumetric energy density of battery. Here, we pivot from the traditional interphase plus extra separator categories, proposing an all‐in‐one ligand buffer layer (ca. 20 μm) to effectively modulate the Zn2+ transfer and deposition behaviors proved by in situ electrochemical digital holography. Experimental characterizations and density functional theory simulations further reveal that the catechol groups in the buffer layer can accelerate the Zn2+ reduction reaction (ZRR) through the electron‐donating p‐π conjugation effect, decreasing the negative charge in the coordination environment. Without extra separators, the elaborated system endows low polarization below 28.2 mV, long lifespan of 4950 h at 5 mA cm−2 in symmetric batteries, and an unprecedented volumetric energy density of 99.2 Wh L−1 based on the whole pouch cells. The concomitantly "separator‐free" and "dendrite‐free" conjugation effect with an accelerated ZRR process could foster the progression of metallic anodes and benefit energetic aqueous batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rechargeable aqueous zinc (Zn) batteries are a promising candidate for large‐scale energy storage, but the noncompact and dendritic Zn deposition, water‐induced parasitic reaction, and narrow operating temperature range severely hinder their practical application. Here, it is demonstrated that these challenges can be conquered by introducing low‐cost acetamide (Ace) into aqueous electrolytes. The non‐sacrificial Ace molecules with both donor and acceptor groups can disrupt the original H‐bonded network of water, replace the solvating‐H2O in Zn2+‐solvation sheath, form dynamic adsorption on Zn, and create an H2O‐poor electrical double‐layer. Consequently, the presence of Ace suppresses water erosion on Zn, homogenizes Zn nucleation/growth, reduces water reactivity, and depresses the freezing point of electrolyte. The formulated Ace‐containing electrolyte features a wide temperature range from −20 to 60 °C and enables highly compact and dendrite‐free Zn electrodeposition even at 25 mAh cm−2 using a non‐pressure electrolytic cell. Moreover, the Ace‐containing electrolyte allows Zn electrodes to achieve a long‐term lifespan across −20–60 °C and excellent deep cycling stability under 85.3% depth‐of‐discharge (25 mAh cm−2) with over 400 h, and supports the stable operation of Zn–Iodine full batteries under harsh conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innate immune systems alter the concentrations of trace elements in host niches in response to invading pathogens during infection. This work reports the interplay between d-block metal ions and their associated biomolecules using hyphenated elemental techniques to spatially quantify both elemental distributions and the abundance of specific transport proteins. Here, lung tissues were collected for analyses from naïve and Streptococcus pneumoniae-infected mice fed on a zinc-restricted or zinc-supplemented diet. Spatiotemporal distributions of manganese (55Mn), iron (56Fe), copper (63Cu), and zinc (66Zn) were determined by quantitative laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry. The murine transport proteins ZIP8 and ZIP14, which are associated with zinc transport, were also imaged by incorporation of immunohistochemistry techniques into the analytical workflow. Collectively, this work demonstrates the potential of a single instrumental platform suitable for multiplex analyses of tissues and labelled antibodies to investigate complex elemental interactions at the host-pathogen interface. Further, these methods have the potential for broad application to investigations of biological pathways where concomitant measurement of elements and biomolecules is crucial to understand the basis of disease and aid in development of new therapeutic approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Effector proteins are central to the success of plant pathogens, while immunity in host plants is driven by receptor‐mediated recognition of these effectors. Understanding the molecular details of effector–receptor interactions is key for the engineering of novel immune receptors. Here, we experimentally determined the crystal structure of the Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt) effector AvrSr27, which was not accurately predicted using AlphaFold2. We characterised the role of the conserved cysteine residues in AvrSr27 using in vitro biochemical assays and examined Sr27‐mediated recognition using transient expression in Nicotiana spp. and wheat protoplasts. The AvrSr27 structure contains a novel β‐strand rich modular fold consisting of two structurally similar domains that bind to Zn2+ ions. The N‐terminal domain of AvrSr27 is sufficient for interaction with Sr27 and triggering cell death. We identified two Pgt proteins structurally related to AvrSr27 but with low sequence identity that can also associate with Sr27, albeit more weakly. Though only the full‐length proteins, trigger Sr27‐dependent cell death in transient expression systems. Collectively, our findings have important implications for utilising protein prediction platforms for effector proteins, and those embarking on bespoke engineering of immunity receptors as solutions to plant disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Singlet dioxygen has been widely applied in different disciplines such as medicine (photodynamic therapy or blood sterilization), remediation (wastewater treatment) or industrial processes (fine chemicals synthesis). Particularly, it can be conveniently generated by energy transfer between a photosensitizer's triplet state and triplet dioxygen upon irradiation with visible light. Among the best photosensitizers, substituted zinc(II) phthalocyanines are prominent due to their excellent photophysical properties, which can be tuned by structural modifications, such as halogen‐ and chalcogen‐atom substitution. These patterns allow for the enhancement of spin‐orbit coupling, commonly attributed to the heavy atom effect, which correlates with the atomic number (Z ${Z}$) and the spin‐orbit coupling constant (ζ ${\zeta }$) of the introduced heteroatom. Herein, a fully systematic analysis of the effect exerted by chalcogen atoms on the photophysical characteristics (absorption and fluorescence properties, lifetimes and singlet dioxygen photogeneration), involving 30 custom‐made β‐tetrasubstituted chalcogen‐bearing zinc(II) phthalocyanines is described and evaluated regarding the heavy atom effect. Besides, the intersystem crossing rate constants are estimated by several independent methods and a quantitative profile of the heavy atom is provided by using linear correlations between relative intersystem crossing rates and relative atomic numbers. Good linear trends for both intersystem crossing rates (S1‐T1 and T1‐S0) were obtained, with a dependency on the atomic number and the spin‐orbit coupling constant scaling as Z0.4 ${{Z}^{0.4}}$ and ζ0.2 ${{\zeta }^{0.2}}$ , respectively The trend shows to be independent of the solvent and temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZnO and Zn(0.97-x)Al0.03MnxO (x = 0.00 (AlMnZ0), 0.04 (AlMnZ4), 0.05 (AlMnZ5) and 0.06 (AlMnZ6)) nanopowders that have been synthesized in powder form by using coprecipitation method at powder-based low temperature are zinc chloride (Sigma Aldrich), manganese (II) chloride tetrahydrate (Sigma Aldrich), and aluminum chloride hexahydrate (Sigma Aldrich). The powder of zinc chloride, aluminum chloride hexahydrate and manganese (II) chloride are dissolved in 0.5 M HCl, then a precipitating agent is added in the form of NaOH 5 M base into the solution by slowly dropping NaOH 5 M solution into the precursor until a pH of 10 is reached which causes the clear and transparent solution turns into milky white. In order for the reaction to run perfectly, the stirring process is carried out in a hot plate stirrer for 90 minutes at a temperature of 85 °C. After the solution is formed, it is washed with distilled water repeatedly until there is no impurities and it is filtered with filter paper to separate the precipitate from the solution. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Ultra Violet Visible (UV-VIS) Spectroscopy have been used to characterize ZnO nanopowder products through (Al+Mn) doping. The results show that AlMnZ0, AlMnZ4, AlMnz5 and AlMnZ6 nanopowder has the form of a hexagonal wurtzite crystal phase with a crystal size of ~38.03881-47.57561 nm. The optical band gap of ZnO nanopowder can be increased by atomic doping (Al+Mn). The increase in the optical band gap of AlMnZ0, AlMnZ4, AlMnZ5 and AlMnZ6 nanopowder is related to the Burstein-Moss effect, that is when (Al+Mn) atoms are successfully incorporated into ZnO nanopowders, there is a vacancy of the oxygen atom in the host crystal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc finger-homeodomain transcription factors (ZF-HDs) are pivotal in regulating plant growth, development, and diverse stress responses. In this study, we found 8 ZF-HD genes in barley genome. Theses eight HvZF-HD genes were located on five chromosomes, and classified into ZHD and MIF subfamily. The collinearity, gene structure, conserved motif, and cis-elements of HvZF-HD genes were also analyzed. Real-time PCR results suggested that the expression of HvZF-HD4, HvZF-HD6, HvZF-HD7 and HvZF-HD8 were up-regulated after hormones (ABA, GA3 and MeJA) or PEG treatments, especially HvZF-HD6 was significantly induced. These results provide useful information of ZF-HD genes to future study aimed at barley breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Histoplasma capsulatum causes a fungal respiratory disease. Some studies suggest that the fungus requires zinc to consolidate the infection. This study aimed to investigate the influence of zinc and the metal chelator TPEN on the growth of Histoplasma in planktonic and biofilm forms. The results showed that zinc increased the metabolic activity, cell density, and cell viability of planktonic growth. Similarly, there was an increase in biofilm metabolic activity but no increase in biomass or extracellular matrix production. N′-N,N,N,N–tetrakis–2-pyridylmethylethane–1,2 diamine (TPEN) dramatically reduced the same parameters in the planktonic form and resulted in a decrease in metabolic activity, biomass, and extracellular matrix production for the biofilm form. Therefore, the unprecedented observations in this study highlight the importance of zinc ions for the growth, development, and proliferation of H. capsulatum cells and provide new insights into the role of metal ions for biofilm formation in the dimorphic fungus Histoplasma, which could be a potential therapeutic strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the widespread application of glucocorticoids in ophthalmology, the associated elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) has long been a vexing concern for clinicians, yet the underlying mechanisms remain inconclusive. Much of the discussion focuses on the extracellular matrix (ECM) of trabecular meshwork (TM). It is widely agreed that glucocorticoids impact the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), leading to ECM deposition. Since Zn2+ is vital for MMPs, we explored its role in ECM alterations induced by dexamethasone (DEX). Our study revealed that in human TM cells treated with DEX, the level of intracellular Zn2+ significantly decreased, accompanied by impaired extracellular Zn2+ uptake. This correlated with changes in several Zrt-, Irt-related proteins (ZIPs) and metallothionein. ZIP8 knockdown impaired extracellular Zn2+ uptake, but Zn2+ chelation did not affect ZIP8 expression. Resembling DEX's effects, chelation of Zn2+ decreased MMP2 expression, increased the deposition of ECM proteins, and induced structural disarray of ECM. Conversely, supplementation of exogenous Zn2+ in DEX-treated cells ameliorated these outcomes. Notably, dietary zinc supplementation in mice significantly reduced DEX-induced IOP elevation and collagen content in TM, thereby rescuing the visual function of the mice. These findings underscore zinc's pivotal role in ECM regulation, providing a novel perspective on the pathogenesis of glaucoma. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: Our study explores zinc's pivotal role in mitigating extracellular matrix dysregulation in the trabecular meshwork and glucocorticoid-induced ocular hypertension. We found that in human trabecular meshwork cells treated with dexamethasone, intracellular Zn2+ significantly decreased, accompanied by impaired extracellular Zn2+ uptake. Zinc supplementation rescues visual function by modulating extracellular matrix proteins and lowering intraocular pressure, offering a direction for further exploration in glaucoma management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hair heterochromia may be caused by different mechanisms. At clinical work, we found a Chinese boy whose hair colour gradually turned to red. We record the diagnosis and treatment process and follow‐up situation, finally find that altered hair colour phenotype is due to MC1R genetic mutations, rather than zinc deficiency. This rarely red hair colour phenotype improve our understanding of hair heterochromia caused by genetic mutations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The spike is a crucial organ for intercepting exogenous zinc (Zn) at the late growth stage of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). However, the role of spikes in wheat biofortification has drawn little attention, and knowledge gaps exist with respect to absorption and translocation of exogenous Zn by wheat. Aims: This study aims to determine the role of spikes in wheat biofortification when Zn is applied to the canopy, and to characterise the absorption and translocation of Zn applied to different wheat organs. Methods: In two field experiments and one pot experiment, Zn was applied at different stages (heading or early filling stage) to the canopy or to different organs (flag leaf or spike), and Zn concentrations in various organs were determined. Zn interception, Zn absorption, recovery in grain, and translocation amount and rate were calculated. Key results: With application to the canopy, the Zn interception rate of spikes was 13% at heading and 28% at early filling. Grain Zn concentration was improved by 17–33% under flag leaf Zn application and 30–37% under spike Zn application, with absorption accounting for 68–90% and 88–99% of Zn applied, respectively. Zn applied at heading was translocated throughout plants before anthesis, and then to spikes. Zn applied at early filling was entirely translocated to spikes. The amount of Zn translocated after flag leaf application and spike application accounted for 16–40% and 13–14% of absorbed Zn, respectively. Conclusions: Spikes are critical for intercepting and absorbing exogenous Zn. The Zn absorbed by the spike was more effective for grain Zn biofortification than the Zn absorbed by the flag leaf. Implications: The information generated from this study assists in understanding how wheat plants intercept, absorb and translocate Zn. Understanding of interception, absorption and translocation of exogenous Zn in wheat is important to the goal of improving biofortification efficacy; however, knowledge gaps exist with regard to absorption and translocation of exogenous Zn by wheat and the role of spikes in biofortification. Results show that spikes are critical in intercepting and absorbing exogenous Zn, and translocation of exogenous Zn is dependent on application stage. The outcomes improve our knowledge of how wheat plants intercept, absorb and translocate Zn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and the copper/zinc ratio (Cu/Zn), which have been studied in gastrointestinal disorders of humans, may facilitate disease prognosis. Objective: Evaluate the predictive potential of Cu, Zn, cobalamin, and serum amyloid A (SAA) as prognostic indicators in cats with feline panleukopenia (FPV) on admission. Animals: Client‐owned cats diagnosed with FPV and controls. Methods: Serum Cu and Zn concentrations were assessed using the spectrophotometric method and serum concentrations of SAA and cobalamin were measured by chemiluminescent immunoassay. Results: On admission, survivor cats with FPV had significantly higher serum Cu and SAA concentrations and Cu/Zn ratios and significantly lower serum Zn and cobalamin concentrations than controls. Furthermore, non‐survivor cats with FPV had significantly higher serum Cu and SAA concentrations and Cu/Zn ratios and significantly lower cobalamin concentrations than survivors and controls. Prognostic thresholds were calculated, with positive predictive value (PPV) for survival of 90% for Cu (≥120.3 μg/dL), 90% for Cu/Zn (≥1.34), 90% for cobalamin (≤430.4 pg/mL), and 90% for SAA (≥0.85 mg/L). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Cu (0.93 area under curve [AUC]), Cu/Zn (0.95 AUC), cobalamin (0.98 AUC), and SAA (0.98 AUC) were excellent biomarkers for predicting prognosis in cats with FPV. Their effectiveness, as assessed by sensitivity (100%), specificity (80%), AUC (0.98), and PPV (90%) from receiver operating characteristic analysis, emphasizes the performance of cobalamin and SAA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]