A group of researchers led by The University of Osaka have identified a novel genetic mutation in Streptococcus pyogenes, a common bacterium which causes strep throat, significantly associated with severe invasive infections. A single mutation in the bacterial ferric ion transporter enhances bacterial growth in human blood. This mutation, unique to Japanese isolates, indicates a novel pathogenic mechanism.  This world-first discovery offers a potential new target for treatments and preventive measures.

Thermoelectric materials, capable of direct conversion between thermal and electrical energy, have garnered significant attention for their potential in energy recovery and microelectronic power supply. Among various thermoelectric material systems, binary indium chalcogenides (In-X, X = Te, Se, S) stand out due to their exceptionally low thermal conductivity. On June 10, 2024, Professor Yang Jiong's team at Shanghai University published a Review titled “Structural Characteristics and Recent Advances in Thermoelectric Binary Indium Chalcogenides” in Research (DOI: 10.34133/research.0727). The work systematically analyzes the crystal structure features of binary indium chalcogenides, employs first-principles calculations to reveal their electronic band and phonon dispersion, and discusses the influence of unconventional chemical bonds (e.g., In-In bonds) and mixed valence states on electronic structure and lattice vibrations, elucidating potential physical mechanisms behind their low thermal conductivity. The review also summarizes experimental optimization strategies such as defect engineering, crystal orientation engineering, nano-structuring, and grain size engineering, with a focus on synergistic optimization of electrical and thermal transport properties through doping and vacancy modulation. Additionally, the work outlines major challenges and future directions for binary indium chalcogenides in thermoelectric applications, providing critical guidance for designing high-performance thermoelectric materials.