In a paper published in Mycology, the team of Cheng-Lin Hou from the College of Life Science of Capital Normal University has made important progress in the study of species diversity and taxonomy of Rhytismatales. In this study, three new genera, eighteen new species, and three new combinations are proposed, increasing the knowledge of the fungal diversity of Rhytismataceae on species on Rhododendron, and demonstrating the use of an integrative taxonomic approach that combines morphological characteristics, multi-locus phylogenetic analysis, and ecological habits, which is of great significance for the classification and identification of Rhytismatales taxa.

Efforts to improve the performance of protonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) have been hampered by the limited availability of cathode materials with high activity and durability. One potential approach to enhance electrocatalytic performance is by modifying the particle morphology of the cathode, which potentially reforms transport properties and active reaction sites. The team of material scientists led by Jie Hou from University of South China attempted to configure cathode particles through the controlled growth of cubes, aiming to improve the properties of perovskite-related Pr_1.5Ba_1.5Cu₃O₇ (PBC). This study demonstrates the potential of controlling particle growth to design highly-active electrodes with specialized properties, opening new avenues for material design in PCFCs and related electrocatalytic fields.

Cancer and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) share common risk factors, and treatments for cancer have the potential to increase the risk of CVDs. Researchers have elaborated on the importance of recognizing the indicators, patterns, predictive outcomes, and challenges associated with CVD risks in cancer patients and survivors. Proactive management and early detection are essential to improving the overall health outcomes and quality of life for patients with cancer.