Papaya yield has been shaped by a long history of domestication, but the genetic basis of high productivity has remained largely unresolved. This study provides a high-quality genome assembly of the widely cultivated papaya variety ‘Zihui’ and integrates population resequencing and pan-genome analysis to uncover key loci linked to yield traits. Notably, two genes—Cp_zihui06549, encoding a leucine-rich receptor-like protein kinase, and Cp_zihui06768, associated with photosystem I protein accumulation—were identified as major contributors to fruit production. Functional validation showed that overexpression of Cp_zihui06549 significantly increases fruit number, enhancing total yield. These findings establish essential genetic targets for improving papaya productivity and accelerating breeding programs.

The transportation sector, the second-largest emitter of global greenhouse gases, is undergoing a transformation with electrification and subsidies aimed at reducing its carbon footprint. Yet, a critical aspect often overlooked is the role of logistics in global trade and how geopolitical decisions can undermine these efforts. This study sheds light on the impact of suboptimal logistics on greenhouse gas emissions, using recent geopolitical restrictions between Russia and Western countries since 2022 and a scenario of reduced trade through the Red Sea observed in 2024.

A research paper by scientists at Shanghai Jiao Tong University presented a novel integrated piezoelectric module (IPEM) based on a piezoelectric ceramic element designed specifically for bio-membrane puncture and insertion applications.

The research paper, published on Oct. 21, 2025 in the journal Cyborg and Bionic Systems.

This review addresses the critical dilemma of balancing strength and ductility in titanium matrix composites (TMCs) by emphasizing the addition of nano-phases. It systematically highlights interfacial engineering and configuration strategy to mitigate interfacial lattice mismatch and agglomeration behavior, offering a roadmap for optimizing mechanical properties. Finally, this review proposes the underlying challenges, development trends and future applications of next-generation TMCs.

In response to the challenge associated with the instability of oxygen vacancies (Vo), this study proposes an In-doped CeO₂ strategy designed to achieve a high concentration of Vo. By forming In-Vo complexes, both the catalytic activity and stability of the material are significantly enhanced.

A multi-scale heterostructure design—combining micrometre-scale grains with nanoscale precipitate networks—enables a TA15-Si-TiB composite to achieve an exceptional synergy of room-temperature ductility and high-temperature strength. This architecture promotes hetero-deformation-induced hardening and strain partitioning, overcoming the strength-ductility trade-off in titanium composites for advanced lightweight applications.