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In this article, we review the current status of B -mixing and b -hadron lifetimes both from experimental and theoretical points of view. Furthermore, we discuss the phenomenological potential of these observables for deepening our understanding of quantum chromodynamics (QCD) and for indirect searches for effects beyond the Standard Model (SM). In addition, we present new updated SM predictions for the mixing observables Δ M d , s , Δ Γ d , s and a fs d , s . We conclude with an outlook on future prospects for theoretical and experimental improvements.

We review the current status and implications of the anomalies (i.e. deviations from the Standard Model predictions) in semi-leptonic B meson decays, both in the charged and in the neutral current. In b → s ℓ + ℓ - transitions significant tensions between measurements and the Standard Model predictions exist. They are most pronounced in the branching ratios B B → K μ + μ - and B B s → ϕ μ + μ - (albeit quite dependent on the form factors used) as well as in angular observables in B → K ∗ μ + μ - (the P 5 ′ anomaly). Because the measurements of B B s → μ + μ - and of the ratios R ( K ) and R ( K ∗ ) agree reasonably well with the SM predictions, this points towards (dominantly) lepton flavour universal NP coupling vectorially to leptons, i.e. contributions to C 9 U . In fact, global fits prefer this scenario over the SM hypothesis by 5.8 σ . Concerning b → c τ ν transitions, R ( D ) and R ( D ∗ ) suggest constructive new physics at the level of 10 % (w.r.t. the Standard Model amplitude) with a significance above 3 σ . We discuss new physics explanations of both anomalies separately as well as possible combined explanations. In particular, a left-handed vector current solution to R ( D ( ∗ ) ) , either via the U 1 leptoquark or the combination of the scalar leptoquarks S 1 and S 3 , leads to an effect in C 9 U via an off-shell penguin with the right sign and magnitude and a combined significance (including a tree-level effect resulting in C 9 μ = - C 10 μ and R ( D ( ∗ ) ) ) of 6.3 σ . Such a scenario can be tested with b → s τ + τ - decays. Finally, we point out an interesting possible correlation of R ( D ( ∗ ) ) with non-leptonic B anomalies.

The inclusive semileptonic B → X c ℓ ν ¯ ℓ and B → X u ℓ ν ¯ ℓ decays allow for the extraction of the CKM elements | V cb | and | V ub | , respectively. These extractions are based on the Heavy-Quark Expansion, where recent progress on both the experimental and theoretical side allow for impressively precise results. We review the recent developments in the study of inclusive decays and give an outlook for the future.

We overview the current status and future perspectives of the QCD-based method of light-cone sum rules. The two main versions of these sum rules, using light-meson and B -meson distribution amplitudes are introduced and the most important applications of the method are discussed. We also outline open problems and future perspectives of this method.

Several seismic gaps have been identified along the Xianshuihe-Xiaojiang fault zone and the Longmenshan fault zone in the Sichuan-Yunnan region, including the Daofu-Shimian gap on the Xianshuihe Fault, the Anninghe-Zemuhe gap, parts of the Xiaojiang Fault, and the Dayi gap between the Wenchuan and Lushan earthquakes. The seismic hazards of the Daofu-Shimian and Dayi gaps have aroused great concern and caused considerable debate. This paper reviews the recent geophysical observations and multidisciplinary studies conducted by domestic and international researchers in these areas, focusing on seismogenic structures, seismic activity, fault locking, stress fields, as well as earthquake triggering, and further analyzes the current controversial viewpoints about the seismic hazards in these regions. Based on the comprehensive analysis, we argue that the kinematic status along the Daofu-Shimian segment may vary significantly along the fault strike. Due to limitations in data and models, there is no consensus on the seismogenic potential of this area. Conversely, the Dayi seismic gap presents a high seismic potential. Furthermore, we delve into the scientific problems associated with major seismic gaps in the Sichuan-Yunnan region and make prospects for the strategy of future work. We propose a research framework that combines dense array and distributed acoustic sensing, artificial intelligence and big data technologies, joint inversion of multiple geophysical fields, as well as numerical simulation techniques for comprehensive seismic hazard analysis in seismic gaps.

We discuss the main issues in dealing with heavy quarks on the lattice and shortly present the different approaches used. We discuss a selection of computations covering first the b -quark mass and the B ( s ) meson decay constants as the consolidated results (neglecting isospin breaking corrections). In the second part, we consider recent calculations of form factors for tree-level semileptonic decays with emphasis on the tensions between the results produced by different collaborations. We propose benchmark quantities and tests suited to investigate the origin of such tensions. Finally, we review computations of the bag parameters parameterising neutral meson mixing and provide an overview on a few recent developments in the field.

Recent research in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry has concentrated on reducing specific power consumption (SPC) during production, which helps to lower operating costs and decrease the carbon footprint. Although reducing the SPC offers benefits, it can complicate the system and increase investment costs. This review investigates the thermodynamic parameters of various natural gas (NG) liquefaction technologies. It examines the cryogenic NG processes, including integrating NG liquid recovery plants, nitrogen rejection cycles, helium recovery units, and LNG facilities. It explores various approaches to improve hybrid NG liquefaction performance, including the application of optimization algorithms, mixed refrigerant units, absorption refrigeration cycles, diffusion–absorption refrigeration systems, auto-cascade absorption refrigeration processes, thermoelectric generator plants, liquid air cold recovery units, ejector refrigeration cycles, and the integration of renewable energy sources and waste heat. The review evaluates the economic aspects of hybrid LNG systems, focusing on specific capital costs, LNG pricing, and capacity. LNG capital cost estimates from academic sources (173.2–1184 USD/TPA) are lower than those in technical reports (486.7–3839 USD/TPA). LNG prices in research studies (0.2–0.45 USD/kg, 2024) are lower than in technical reports (0.3–0.7 USD/kg), based on 2024 data. Also, this review investigates LNG accidents in detail and provides valuable insights into safety protocols, risk management strategies, and the overall resilience of LNG operations in the face of potential hazards. A detailed evaluation of LNG plants built in recent years is provided, focusing on technological advancements, operational efficiency, and safety measures. Moreover, this study investigates LNG ports in the United States, examining their infrastructures, regulatory compliance, and strategic role in the global LNG supply chain. In addition, it outlines LNG’s current status and future outlook, focusing on key industry trends. Finally, it presents a market share analysis that examines LNG distribution by export, import, re-loading, and receiving markets.

We provide an overview on the existing determinations on | V ub | and | V cb | , as well as on ratio measurements. New world averages for | V ub | from B → π ℓ ν ¯ ℓ and for | V cb | from B → D ∗ ℓ ν ¯ ℓ are reported, combining recent measurements and lattice QCD calculations. We combine these new values with other determinations and ratios of | V ub | and | V cb | to ascertain the current knowledge of both fundamental parameters to evaluate the compatibility with determinations from inclusive semileptonic decays. We find: | V ub | = 3.44 ± 0.12 × 10 - 3 and | V cb | = 40.84 ± 0.48 × 10 - 3 with a correlation of ρ = 0.22 . These values show a disagreement from the inclusive determinations at the 2.85 σ level.

We review recent progress in the computation of structure-dependent QED corrections to exclusive B decays in the factorization approach.

We review recent developments in charm physics, focusing on the physics of charmed mesons. We discuss recent progress in charm spectroscopy and the multitude of mesonic and baryonic exotic states containing charm quarks. We review searches for new physics with charmed mesons with rare decays. We also touch upon recent theoretical and experimental progress in searches for CP-violation in charm decays and the status of D 0 - D ¯ 0 mixing.