Researchers from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have developed and validated a coupled xenon-transport and reactor dynamics model for molten salt reactors. This model enables simulations of dynamic and frequency response of liquid-fueled MSRs, which is validated against a broad spectrum of experiment data from the MSRE. The new simulation framework reveals the unique power-to-flowrate and power-to-void frequency responses of the MSRE. In addition, plant responses during the unique initiating events of off-gas system blockage and loss of circulating voids are simulated.

Zinc (Zn) is a vital micronutrient for all living organisms, and its deficiency can adversely impact crop yield and quality. Despite its importance, the regulatory mechanisms underlying Zn signal perception and transduction in plants remain inadequately understood. In a recent publication in Science Bulletin, Professor Cun Wang and colleagues from Northwest A & F University presented their study, " Plasma membrane-associated calcium signaling modulates zinc homeostasis in Arabidopsis." The researchers elucidated the critical role of the Ca²⁺-CBL1/4/5/8/9-CIPK3/9/23/26-ZIP12 signaling pathway in regulating Zn homeostasis in plants. This study provides a theoretical foundation and novel insights for the molecular breeding of crops with enhanced tolerance to Zn deficiency and the development of hyperaccumulator crops for beneficial trace elements.

Two-dimensional porphyrin-based COFs show great promise for photocatalytic CO₂ reduction, yet their π-π stacking often impedes active site exposure and charge transfer. Researchers developed a series of porphyrin COFs with tunably twisted linkers. The N-N-linked twisted unit in NN-Por-COF creates a remarkably undulating layered structure that enhances mass transport and exposes more active sites, while simultaneously modulating the electronic structure of cobalt-porphyrin to reduce reaction barriers. This dual structural and electronic optimization yields outstanding photocatalytic performance, achieving CO production rates of 22.38 and 3.02 mmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹ under pure and 10% CO₂, respectively, surpassing most porphyrin-based photocatalysts.

 A new study categorizes corporate climate risks into physical, transition and perceived categories. Researchers propose an integrated assessment framework combining exposure data, management capabilities and market perceptions. The work highlights supply chain vulnerabilities in physical risks, ESG limitations in transition risks, and AI applications for perceived risks. Findings help firms navigate climate challenges while identifying green energy opportunities.

A groundbreaking study of Chittagong City exposes how governance gaps and infrastructure failures exacerbate urban flooding, proposing 10 key strategies combining engineering solutions with community engagement to build climate-resilient cities.

Excess submental fat is a common facial aesthetic concern. It not only makes people look less attractive and overweight, but it has negative impact on feeling/emotional well-beings. This study developed and validated a 5-point Chinese version of clinician-reported SMF rating scale.

The article conducts an in-depth analysis of the history, key indicators and difffculties of water ecological assessments in typical countries and organization around the world. It points out the significance of water ecological assessments , and provides future implications for advancing water ecological assessment practices. Research indicates significant progresses have been made in the study and application of water ecological assessments globally. The study highlights the key to effective water ecological assessments lies in establishing a comprehensive and scientifically robust indicator system. Over time, water ecological assessments have gradually shifted from relying on single water quality metrics to adopting holistic ecosystem health assessments. The research proposes that future water ecological assessments should integrate the management of water resources, water ecology, and water environment. It improves the management of water environment in key river basins, and establishes a new framework for systematic governance.