Short Cycle Research Articles

Morphological and agronomic evaluation of short-cycle native maize varieties (Zea mays L.)

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze the morphological composition and agronomic behavior of five varieties of Zea mays L. Two Zapalote Chico, two Zapalote Grande and an improved variety (V-424) which are characterized by having a short vegetative cycle Desing/methodology/approach: The maize varieties evaluated were sourced from various locations within the municipality, with explicit consent from the producers, who provided the seeds for the study. Four native cultivars (treatments) were selected from the Zapalote Chico and Zapalote Grande races and one improved and open-pollinated maize variety (V-424 or Tuxpeño Precoz) as a control, released by INIFAP. The local farmers assigned the common names to the evaluated maize varieties, except for V-424. The varieties were distributed in a randomized block design with four replications, resulting in a total of 20 experimental units. Each unit consisted of four furrows, each measuring 4 meters in length. Results: The findings of this study on native short-cycle maize varieties in Chiapas have significant implications at the genetic, social, cultural, economic, and environmental levels. Each of these aspects provides crucial guidance for decision-making related to the utilization, management, and conservation of local maize varieties. A key outcome of this study is the recognition of native maize as a repository of essential genes for food security in rural areas. Short-cycle landraces exhibit unique genetic adaptations that enable them to thrive under the specific agroclimatic conditions of the Frailesca region in Chiapas. Limitations on study/implications: none Findings/conclusions: The native maize varieties exhibited significant genetic variability across the variables under consideration. The Zapalote Chico race is characterized by its favourable characteristics, as recognized by farmers, including early maturity, drought resistance, lodging resistance, and resistance to the fall armyworm. These qualities make it a promising candidate for future research and for inclusion in genetic improvement programs, whether conventional or participatory. It is crucial to continue promoting agroecological inputs with the goal of fostering the development of resilient agroecosystems and, consequently, enhancing the well-being of farmers and the conservation of native maize reservoirs.

Single and consecutive 10-day remote ischemic preconditioning modify physical performance, post-exercise exerkine levels, and inflammation

PurposeRemote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) is a method of protection against induced ischemia reperfusion injury, and an increasing number of studies showed some of its inconclusive ergogenic effects in sports. RIPC involves short cycles of cuff inflation followed by its deflation which may affect many body systems. While most of the studies focus on single RIPC effects, there is insufficient data regarding training-like repeated RIPC interventions. Thus, in this study, we analyzed the effect of a single- and consecutive 10-day RIPC procedure on a single leg, focusing on the exerkine levels and changes in inflammation markers following the Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT).MethodsTwo single-blinded, sham-controlled protocols were designed to evaluate the 1) single (crossover study) and 2) consecutive 10-day (parallel study) RIPC effects on the WAnT performance and exercise-induced lactate, glucose, exerkine, and inflammation markers (BDNF; IL-6; IL-10; IL-15; LIF; oncostatin M). In each protocol, 37 physically active men (19.98 ± 1.17 years) were randomly assigned into two groups according to a particular study design.ResultsAn increase in participants’ mean (4.81%, p < 0.05) and peak power (6.25%, p < 0.05) during the WAnT was observed only after the consecutive 10-day RIPC. Similarly, a significant 15.5% (p < 0.05) decrease in the IL-6 concentration 120 min after the WAnT was observed only in the consecutive 10-day RIPC protocol, as well as a 12.2% (p < 0.01) increase in oncostatin M 60 min after the WAnT.ConclusionThe results demonstrate the efficacy of the consecutive 10-day RIPC procedure in modulating exercise performance and post-exercise inflammation markers.

A tripartite synergistic optimization strategy for zinc-iodine batteries

The energy industry has taken notice of zinc-iodine (Zn-I2) batteries for their high safety, low cost, and attractive energy density. However, the shuttling of I3− by-products at cathode electrode and dendrite issues at Zn metal anode result in short cycle lifespan. Here, a tripartite synergistic optimization strategy is proposed, involving a MXene cathode host, a n-butanol electrolyte additive, and the in-situ solid electrolyte interface (SEI) protection. The MXene possesses catalytic ability to enhance the reaction kinetics and reduce I3− by-products. Meanwhile, the partially dissolved n-butanol additive can work synergistically with MXene to inhibit the shuttling of I3−. Besides, the n-butanol and I− in the electrolyte can synergistically improve the solvation structure of Zn2+. Moreover, an organic-inorganic hybrid SEI is in situ generated on the surface of the Zn anode, which induces stable non-dendritic zinc deposition. As a result, the fabricated batteries exhibit a high capacity of 0.30 mAh cm−2 and a superior energy density of 0.34 mWh cm−2 at a high specific current of 5 A g−1 across 30,000 cycles, with a minimal capacity decay of 0.0004% per cycle. This work offers a promising strategy for the subsequent research to comprehensively improve battery performance.

Progress of silicon and graphene composites in lithium-ion battery anodes

As society progresses, the need for high-power, long-life energy supply devices gradually increases. Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) with large energy reserves and high power have recently become the preferred choice. The anode of LIBs plays a crucial role in battery performance, safety, and cycle life. Typically, graphite materials are used for LIBs anodes. Still, they have drawbacks such as low first-time Coulombic efficiency, capacity degradation, safety issues, short cycle life, insufficient gram capacity, and purity and side reactions, which limit the application of LIBs. Therefore, new harmful electrode materials are in demand. Graphene and silicon are both environmentally friendly and sustainable materials. They both have the advantages of high theoretical capacity and high energy density, which are critical materials for developing LIBs. Combining the two can exert a synergistic effect and jointly improve the cycle stability of the battery. In this paper, we review the preparation methods of graphene and silicon composites in recent years, including mechanical ball milling and hydrothermal and thermal reduction methods. In addition, graphene and silicon composites have been explored for LIBs applications.

Drosophila as a Model for Human Disease: Insights into Rare and Ultra-Rare Diseases

Rare and ultra-rare diseases constitute a significant medical challenge due to their low prevalence and the limited understanding of their origin and underlying mechanisms. These disorders often exhibit phenotypic diversity and molecular complexity that represent a challenge to biomedical research. There are more than 6000 different rare diseases that affect nearly 300 million people worldwide. However, the prevalence of each rare disease is low, and in consequence, the biomedical resources dedicated to each rare disease are limited and insufficient to effectively achieve progress in the research. The use of animal models to investigate the mechanisms underlying pathogenesis has become an invaluable tool. Among the animal models commonly used in research, Drosophila melanogaster has emerged as an efficient and reliable experimental model for investigating a wide range of genetic disorders, and to develop therapeutic strategies for rare and ultra-rare diseases. It offers several advantages as a research model including short life cycle, ease of laboratory maintenance, rapid life cycle, and fully sequenced genome that make it highly suitable for studying genetic disorders. Additionally, there is a high degree of genetic conservation from Drosophila melanogaster to humans, which allows the extrapolation of findings at the molecular and cellular levels. Here, I examine the role of Drosophila melanogaster as a model for studying rare and ultra-rare diseases and highlight its significant contributions and potential to biomedical research. High-throughput next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, such as whole-exome sequencing and whole-genome sequencing (WGS), are providing massive amounts of information on the genomic modifications present in rare diseases and common complex traits. The sequencing of exomes or genomes of individuals affected by rare diseases has enabled human geneticists to identify rare variants and identify potential loci associated with novel gene–disease relationships. Despite these advances, the average rare disease patient still experiences significant delay until receiving a diagnosis. Furthermore, the vast majority (95%) of patients with rare conditions lack effective treatment or a cure. This scenario is enhanced by frequent misdiagnoses leading to inadequate support. In consequence, there is an urgent need to develop model organisms to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying these diseases and to establish the genetic origin of these maladies. The aim of this review is to discuss the advantages and limitations of Drosophila melanogaster, hereafter referred as Drosophila, as an experimental model for biomedical research, and the applications to study human disease. The main question to address is whether Drosophila is a valid research model to study human disease, and in particular, rare and ultra-rare diseases.

Impact of electronic networks on E‐waste trade: Evidence from ASEAN+6 countries

AbstractThe development of electronic networks promotes economic growth and international trade flows. Because of the short life cycle of electrical and electronic equipment, considerable electronic waste (e‐waste) is generated. We identified the determinants of e‐waste trade, focusing on ASEAN+6 countries and their trading partners for the years 2000 to 2018. The empirical results regarding trade value and trade weight revealed that electronic networks significantly promoted the import of e‐waste into ASEAN+6 countries. The results were robust to using different measures of electronic networks and different estimation methods.

“Dead Lithium” Formation and Mitigation Strategies in Anode‐Free Li‐Metal Batteries

AbstractThin lithium‐metal foil is a promising anode material for next‐generation batteries due to its high theoretical specific capacity and low negative potential. However, safety issues linked to dendrite growth, low‐capacity retention, and short cycle life pose significant challenges. Also, it has excess energy that must be minimized in order to reduce the battery costs. To limit excess lithium, practical lithium metal batteries need a negative‐to‐positive electrode ratio as close to 1 : 1 as possible, which can be achieved through limiting excess lithium or using an “anode‐free” metal battery design. However, both designs experience fast capacity fade due to the irreversible loss of active lithium in the cell, caused by the formation of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), dendrite formation and “dead lithium,” – refers to lithium that has lost its electronic connection to the anode electrode or current collector. The presence of dead lithium in batteries negatively affects their capacity and lifespan, while also raising internal resistance and generating heat. Additionally, dead lithium encourages the growth of lithium dendrites, which poses significant safety hazards. Within this fundamental review, we thoroughly address the phenomenon of dead lithium formation, assessing its origins, implications on battery performance, and possible strategies for mitigation. The transition towards environmentally friendly and high‐performance metal batteries could be accelerated by effectively tackling the challenge posed by dead lithium.

Efficacy and tolerance of short cycles of palliative radiotherapy in advanced anal sac adenocarcinomas in dogs

Successful management of advanced anal sac gland adenocarcinomas (AGASACA) often requires a multimodal approach. In recent years the role of palliative radiotherapy (pRT) has become increasingly more important, mainly in dogs with severe local clinical signs. This study describes efficacy and tolerance of short cycles of pRT. Retrospective single-institution study including dogs with AGASACA treated with at least one short cycle of pRT (IMRT, 4Gy BID for two consecutive days). All dogs were staged with CT and followed to death. Outcome measures were PFS and OST from the first pRT. Potential prognostic factors were evaluated. Twelve dogs were included (one stage II, four stage III, seven stage IV). Three dogs had one cycle, seven had two cycles, and two had three cycles of pRT. All dogs experienced a clinical benefit after pRT. One dog also had surgery, four systemic treatment, and five both. Eleven dogs died during the follow-up (four for local progression, six for systemic progression, one unknown). The median PFS was 198 days (95% CI 98—298) and the OST was 250 days (95% CI 124—376). Mild, acute, short-term GI toxicity occurred in seven dogs (five G1; two G2). None of the dogs experienced clinically relevant late toxicity. Short cycles of radiotherapy can be effectively used as a palliative treatment for advanced AGASACA with minimal toxicity. The small number of patients did not allow to assess the benefits of combining RT with other treatment modalities or the identification of meaningful prognostic factors.

Development of a Mexican corn landrace, Northern Conical, under temperature and rainfall conditions predicted by the middle of this century: an experimental field approach

Background: Corn is the most important crop in Mexico, but it can be affected by climate change. Small farmers from arid and semiarid ecosystems mainly use rainfed native landraces with short productive cycles (less than 90 days), which are adapted to elevated temperatures and intense drought. Among these landraces we can find the Norther Conical corn. Hypothesis: As Northern Conical seems to be adapted to arid agroecosystems, we hypothesize that this corn landrace can tolerate the mid-century climate change conditions. Studied species: Zea mays subsp. mays (Poaceae), Northern Conical landrace. Study site and dates: An abandoned agricultural field in San Luis Potosí, central Mexico, between August and October 2022. Methods: In a field experiment, corn seeds were sowed under the conditions of higher temperature and lower rainfall predicted by the middle of this century (period 2041-2060), as well as under the current climate. Emergence and survival of plants were regularly monitored, and their functional responses were measured by the end of the experiment. Results: Northern Conical plants performed better (in terms of emergence, survival, growth rates, and photosynthetic performance) under higher temperature and lower rainfall, as compared with those developed under the current climate. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the Northern Conical corn landrace may tolerate the increases in aridity expected in the short term. However, simulations under contrasting environmental and ontogenetical conditions are needed.

Growth conditions but not the variety, affect the yield, seed oil and meal protein of camelina under Mediterranean conditions

European agriculture policies emphasize the importance of agricultural sustainability, focusing on increase of biodiversity through crop diversification. In Mediterranean dryland cropping systems, the introduction of crops in rotation with cereals is challenged by scarce precipitation and high evapotranspiration. In this scenario, camelina (Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz), a low-input annual oleaginous crop with a high morphological plasticity, short life cycle, and interesting oil and meal composition, could be an option to be included in rotation with winter cereals. The aim of this experiment was to study the agronomic performance, and seed oil and meal protein contents of camelina in two different climatic conditions, with a sowing delay in one of them. Several trials were conducted in Montargull (Mediterranean semihumid) and in Lleida (Mediterranean semiarid) in two seasons (2020–21 and 2021–22). In Montargull, two sowing dates (November, SD1 and January, SD2) were established. In each growing condition, three spring camelina varieties were sown (Calena, CO46 and GP204). Camelina was harvested between May and July, and yield and harvest index were measured. After cold pressing the seeds, seed oil and meal protein contents were analysed. Camelina yield and quality was not related to the variety, but to two climatic scenarios: 1) a favourable rainfall distribution without important drought periods (2020–21); 2) significant rainfalls in November and April, but with a drought period in between (2021–22). In the first situation, camelina production ranged from 1533 to 2187 kg ha−1, with high seed oil (40.4–41.4 %) and meal protein (41.0–44.8 %) contents. In the second situation, the yield decreased to 242–661 kg ha−1, seed oil content to 31.0–34.7 %, and meal protein content to 37.6–40.4 %. Despite these seasonal differences, SD1 in Montargull obtained higher average yields and protein content than in Lleida and in SD2. In contrast, in Lleida and in SD2 in Montargull camelina produced higher oil content. The implementation of camelina into Mediterranean dryland crop rotation systems is feasible. Considering the importance of moisture in these climatic conditions, the use of no-till practices is recommended in dryland fields to avoid excessive water loss, while the use of camelina in irrigated fields could be explored. However, more long-term agronomic and industrial research is still needed.

The curious case of 2MASS J15594729+4403595, an ultra-fast M2 dwarf with possible Rieger cycles

Context. RACE-OC (Rotation and ACtivity Evolution in Open Clusters) is a project aimed at characterising the rotational and magnetic activity properties of the late-type members of open clusters, stellar associations, and moving groups of different ages. The evolution in time of rotation and activity at different masses sheds light on the evolution of the stellar internal structure, on magneto-hydrodynamic processes operating in the stellar interior, and on the coupling and decoupling mechanisms between the radiative core and the external convective envelope. As part of this project, in the present paper we present the results of an investigation of a likely member of the AB Doradus association, the M-type star 2MASS J15594729+4403595. Aims. In the present study, we aim to reveal the real nature of our target, which turned out to be a hierarchical triple system, to derive the stellar rotation period and surface differential rotation, and to characterise its photospheric magnetic activity. Methods. We have collected radial velocity and photometric time series, complemented with archive data, to determine the orbital parameters and the rotation period and we have used the spot modelling technique to explore what causes its photometric variability. Results. We found 2MASS J15594729+4403595 to be a hierarchical triple system consisting of a dwarf, SB1 M2, and a companion, M8. The M2 star has a rotation period of P = 0.37 d, making it the fastest among M-type members of AB Dor. The most relevant result is the detection of a periodic variation in the spotted area on opposite stellar hemispheres, which resembles a sort of Rossby wave or Rieger-like cycles on an extremely short timescale. Another interesting result is the occurrence of a highly significant photometric periodicity, P = 0.443 d, which may be related to the stellar rotation in terms of either a Rossby wave or surface differential rotation. Conclusions. 2MASS J15594729+4403595 may be the prototype of a new class of extremely fast rotating stars exibiting short Rieger-like cycles. We shall further explore what may drive these short-duration cycles and we shall also search for similar stars to allow for a statistical analysis.

Testing Astronomical Solutions With Geological Data for the Latest Cretaceous: An Astronomically Tuned Time Scale

AbstractAstronomical solutions form the backbone of accurate dating for geology and paleoclimate studies. Beyond 50 Ma, however, the chaos inherent in the solar system makes it impossible to calculate a unique astronomical solution. Geological data have been used to constrain the chaos in order to arrive at an astronomically calibrated time scale up to the end‐Cretaceous. Here, we adopt and extend this approach into the latest Cretaceous, by re‐analyzing the Zumaia and Sopelana composite proxy records from the Maastrichtian. We find that the filtered total light reflectance () record is most compatible with the astronomical solution ZB20a. However, the results are sensitive to parameter choices in our algorithm, which we describe in detail. Nevertheless, we present evidence in favor of using solution ZB20a for cyclostratigraphic applications during the latest Cretaceous. Intervals with very long eccentricity nodes (VLNs) (low amplitude in the short eccentricity cycle) in the astronomical solutions that coincide with large amplitudes in the short eccentricity‐related peaks in the filtered proxy record rule out alternatives.

An organic-inorganic dual network built in fast-growing wood veneers to improve the flame retardant and mechanical properties of plywood

Fast-growing wood is widely used in plywood production due to its short growth cycle and low cost. However, its loose fiber structure, inferior material quality, and high flammability significantly limit the application range of plywood products and hinder high-value utilization. This paper reports a simple method for modifying fast-growing wood veneers. We modified phenolic resin with Mg(OH)₂@nano-silica composite particles and impregnated it into the veneers, constructing an organic-inorganic hybrid dual-network structure on both the surface and interior of the veneers. The plywood prepared from the modified veneers exhibited a bending strength of 115.6 MPa, a modulus of elasticity of 9.7 GPa, and a wet shear strength of 2.1 MPa, representing increases of 86.1%, 47.0%, and 90.9%, respectively, compared to plywood made from unmodified veneers. Additionally, the peak heat release rate decreased by 15.3%, and the ignition time was extended to 26 seconds. The uniformly distributed inorganic network effectively mitigated stress concentration and, together with the phenolic resin, formed an efficient thermal insulation layer, enhancing the flame retardancy of the material. This study offers a simple and effective treatment method for reinforcing fast-growing wood veneers, promoting the use of fast-growing wood in high-performance applications.

Lecanicillium attenuatum infection and effects on the reproduction of Frankliniella occidentalis

ABSTRACT Frankliniella occidentalis, western flower thrips, is an invasive pest that seriously damages economic crops such as vegetables, flowers, and fruit trees because of its high fecundity, short generation cycle, and strong adaptability. Lecanicillium is an important entomopathogenic fungus, characterised by its wide host range, high pathogenicity, and environmental safety. It plays an important role in the environmentally friendly management of F. occidentalis. This study clarifies whether L. attenuatum infects F. occidentalis and affects its reproduction. The results of scanning electron microscope showed that conidia of L. attenuatum were attached to many parts of thrips adult after 1 h of treatment with 10^8 conidia/mL, and most F. occidentalis were covered by hyphae after 72–120 h. The cumulative mortality rate of the second instar larvae of the F1, F2, and F3 generations exceeded 60% on the seventh day post-infection and that of female adults was higher than 90% when treated by L. attenuatum with 10^8 conidia/mL. Simultaneously, L. attenuatum had strong sublethal effects on the surviving thrips. Indeed, the number of eggs deposited and the lifespan of female adults decreased considerably after the second instar larvae of F. occidentalis were treated with L. attenuatum, and had the impaction on the thrips offspring too. Altogether, our data suggested that L. attenuatum not only exhibited a high degree of pathogenicity towards F. occidentalis second instar larvae and adults but also affected the longevity and reproduction of surviving thrips.

Electrochemical Properties of MIL‐100(Fe) Derived Double‐Shell Coating Anode Materials for Lithium‐Ion Battery

AbstractFe‐based anode materials with a high specific capacity, non‐toxic and abundant resources are among the ideal anode candidates for the new generation of LIBs. But their significant bulk effect causes the problems of the broken electrode structure and short cycle life that seriously hinder their practical applications. Herein, we prepared the core‐shell structure Fe3O4@C@SiO2 for the anode of LIBs by MIL‐101(Fe) derivatization using the solvent thermal method combined with the hydrolytic coating method. The porous carbon layer generated in situ by MOF pyrolysis, together with the coating of the SiO2 shell, can mitigate the volume expansion of ferric tetroxide during the cycling process. With these structural advantages, the Fe3O4@C@SiO2 anode preserves excellent performance with a specific capacity of 716 mAh/g for the 300 cycles at 1 A/g and 428 mAh/g after 2000 cycles as the density is up to 5 A/g. This work presents a promising approach for preparing SiO2‐coated core‐shell structured TMOs composite anodes.

A donor-acceptor conjugated bipolar polymer with multielectron redox sites for long-cycle-life and high-rate aqueous zinc dual-ion batteries

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) have hugely latent advantages in large-scale energy storage due to its innate safety, reasonable price, and sustainability. However, most AZIB cathode materials suffer from short cycling life and poor rate performance. Herein, a bipolar donor-acceptor (D-A) conjugated microporous polymer (PTZ-BDTB), consisting of electron-withdrawing benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b’]dithiophene-4,8-dione (BDTB) units and electron-donating phenothiazine (PTZ) units, is developed as the cathode material of aqueous zinc dual-ion batteries (AZDIBs). The D-A type structure design could reduce the band gap, thus promoting electron transfer in the polymer framework. Therefore, the PTZ-BDTB cathode in a 30 mol/kg (m) ZnCl2 water-in-salt electrolyte exhibits a high reversible capacity of 202 mA h g−1 at 0.05 A g−1 with excellent rate performance (109 mA h g−1 at 15 A g−1), which is far superior to its counterpart polymers PPTZ and PB-BDTB. Impressively, PTZ-BDTB shows ultra-stable cycle performance with capacity retention ratios of 76.2% after 460 cycles at 0.05 A g−1 and 96% after 27000 cycles at 5 A g−1. PTZ-BDTB also exhibits a low self-discharge ability with capacity retention about 76.4% after resting the battery for 28 days. These results demonstrate that D-A type structural design is a promising strategy for constructing high performance cathode materials for AZDIBs.

Phenotypic characterization of different seed coat color of cowpea cultivars, Vigna unguiculata (L). Walp. in West-Central Côte d'Ivoire

Cowpea is a widely consumed legume in sub-Saharan Africa. Several cowpea cultivars based on seed coat color are widely observed. Consumers' choice of cultivar varies from one region to another. However, the lack of improved varieties and the limited availability of information on the productive potential of these cultivars is one of the constraints on the development of cowpea production. Thus, red, white, black and brown seed coat widely consumed were evaluated in the field over two consecutive years, 2022 and 2023 on a plot following a randomized complete block design with four replications. Morphological and agronomic parameters showed that there were two groups of cultivars with interesting agronomic characteristics. The first group composed of the black, brown and red cultivars had a relatively short reproductive time, averaging 66 days. These cultivars are considered early. The number of fruits of these cultivars was also high, with an average of 12 fruits per plant. The second group, consisting exclusively of the white seed coat cultivar produced high biomass and plant length. It had also twice the pod and seed weight of the other cultivars. It would be possible to develop hybrids in the future, seeking, for example, to improve the seed weight of the red cultivar with a short reproductive cycle by crossing with the white seed coat cultivar, with a view to creating an early variety with a high yield.

MOF-Derived Nitrogen-Rich Hollow Nanocages as a Sulfur Carrier for High-Voltage Aluminum Sulfur Batteries.

Aluminum-sulfur batteries (ASBs) are emerging as promising energy storage systems due to their safety, low cost, and high theoretical capacity. However, it remains a challenge to overcome voltage hysteresis and short cycle life in the sulfur/Al2S3 conversion reaction, which hinders the development of ASBs. Here, we studied a high-voltage ASB system based on sulfur oxidation in an AlCl3/urea electrolyte. Nitrogen-doped hollow nanocages (HNCs) synthesized from MOF precursors were rationally designed as sulfur/carbon composite electrodes (S@HNC), and the impact of the nitrogen species on the electrochemical performance of sulfur electrodes was systematically investigated. The S@HNC-900 achieved efficient conversion at 1.9 V, delivering a stable capacity of 197.3 mA h g-1 and a Coulombic efficiency of 93.28% after 100 cycles. Furthermore, the S@HNC-900 electrode exhibited exceptional rate capacity and 800th long-term cycling stability, retaining a capacity of 87.1 mA h g-1 at 500 mA g-1. Ex situ XPS and XRD characterizations elucidated the redox mechanism, revealing a four-electron transfer process (S/AlSCl7) at the S@HNC-900 electrode. Density functional theory calculations demonstrated that pyridinic nitrogen-enriched HNC-900 significantly enhanced the sulfur conversion reaction and facilitated the adsorption of sulfur intermediates (SCl3+) on the carbon interface. This work provides critical insights into the high-voltage sulfur redox mechanism and establishes a foundation for the rational design of carbon-based electrocatalysts for the enhancement of ASB performance.

Research on Resistance Monitoring, Risk Assessment, and Mechanisms of <i>Megalurothrips usitatus</i>

<i>Megalurothrips usitatus</i>, also known as common thrips or cowpea thrips, is a widely distributed and highly destructive pest, primarily infesting legume crops. Due to its short generation cycle, high reproductive capacity, and concealed lifestyle, the effectiveness of chemical pesticide control has been continuously diminishing with the modernization of agricultural production and the extensive use of pesticides. <i>Megalurothrips usitatus</i> has gradually developed resistance to various commonly used pesticides, with resistance levels increasing year by year, thus exacerbating the difficulty of pest management and causing significant economic losses to agricultural production. Scholars, both domestically and internationally, have conducted in-depth research using methods from morphology, molecular biology, and ecology, showing that there are three main causes of pest resistance: enhanced detoxification enzymes, reduced sensitivity at target sites, and decreased cuticle penetration. These findings provide a wealth of theoretical support for resistance monitoring and management. The resistance of <i>Megalurothrips usitatus</i> to multiple pesticides is not only a local issue but also affects global agricultural sustainability. Research on the monitoring, risk assessment, and mechanisms of resistance in <i>Megalurothrips usitatus</i> contributes to prolonging the effective use of pesticides, improving control outcomes, and enhancing both the yield and quality of cowpea crops. These studies also provide a scientific basis for developing more effective control strategies and ensuring sustainable agricultural development.

Reproductive Toxicity and Multi/Transgenerational Effects of Emerging Pollutants on C. elegans

Emerging pollutants (EPs) are receiving increasing attention due to the threats they pose to the environment and human health. As EPs continue to emerge, risk assessment requires many model animals. Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) has been an outstanding toxicological model organism due to its growth and development characteristics. Particularly, in studying the transgenerational influences of EPs, C. elegans has advantages in saving time and cost due to its short generation cycle. As infertility has become a major problem in human reproductive health, reproductive toxicities of EPs on contemporary nematodes and across generations of C. elegans were introduced in this review. Moreover, the underlying mechanisms involved in germ cell apoptosis, spermatogenesis, and epigenetic alteration were discussed. Future research opportunities and challenges are also discussed to expand our understanding of the reproductive influences of EPs.