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POLDIP3 was initially identified as a DNA polymerase delta (Pol δ) interacting protein almost twenty years ago. Intriguingly, it also interacts with proteins involved in a variety of RNA related biological processes, such as transcription, pre-mRNA splicing, mRNA export, and translation. Studies in recent years revealed that POLDIP3 also plays critical roles in disassembling genome wide R-loop formation and activating the DNA damage checkpoint in vivo. Here, we review the functions of POLDIP3 in various RNA and DNA related cellular processes. We then propose a unified model to illustrate how POLDIP3 plays such a versatile role at the crossroad of the RNA and DNA metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Bursaphelenchus xylophilus causes pine wilt disease, which is one of the most devastating forest diseases in the world. However, B. xylophilus cannot spread naturally and must be carried by vector insects from infested trees to healthy ones. Monochamus saltuarius is a B. xylophilus vector that has caused massive pine tree mortality in Japan, South Korea, and China's middle temperate zone. In China, there have been only a few reports of this species. The feeding preference of M. saltuarius on different host pine trees was determined, and the volatile components of the host pine trees were analyzed. Furthermore, the responses of M. saltuarius to different host volatiles were determined, and the correlation between M. saltuarius preference and host pine tree volatiles was investigated. This study will serve as a reference for the development and application of M. saltuarius attractants, which will aid in the control of M. saltuarius and pine wilt disease. Monochamus saltuarius is a vector of Bursaphelenchus xylophilus and has caused massive mortality in pine trees in Japan, South Korea, and the middle temperate zone of China. In this study, the feeding preferences of M. saltuarius to four common host pine species in the middle temperate zone of China were investigated in a laboratory. The volatiles of the four host pine species were sampled and analyzed by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. The responses of M. saltuarius to host pine tree volatiles were measured using a four-arm olfactometer. The results showed that: (1) the preference of M. saltuarius for Pine tabulaeformis was significantly higher than the other ones. (2) The composition and content of the volatiles of the four tested host pine twigs were different, and the relative content of α-pinene was the highest. (3) M. saltuarius was highly sensitive to α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene, and 3-carene, and the attracting effect was enhanced by the mixture of volatile components. This study provides a reference for the development and application of attractants for M. saltuarius. Our results would be helpful in controlling M. saltuarius and pine wilt disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flower-like ZnO self-assembled by nanorods was synthesized by a chemical precipitation method. BiOBr was then covered on the three-dimensional ZnO by hydrothermal method to form coral-like ZnO/BiOBr heterojunctions with high specific surface area. The ZnO/BiOBr heterojunction was investigated by XRD, XPS, FT-IR, FE-SEM, TEM and DRS. The results show that the ZnO/BiOBr heterojunction exhibits significantly enhanced visible-light absorption and carrier transfer capability. It has excellent photocatalytic degradation ability in degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB), tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) and K2Cr2O7. After irradiated for 40 min, 45 min and 100 min, 96.7% RhB, 87.3% TC and 49.8% K2Cr2O7 were degraded, which were 9.3, 1.7 and 41.5 times, respectively, that of the pure ZnO. The photocatalytic mechanism is also proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • It analyzes the feasibility of achieving net zero emission in the Chinese power sector by 2050 and the required policy measures. • It is essential to foster the concurrent development of renewable energy, energy storage, and demand response technologies. • The carbon pricing mechanism with exponential growth is more suitable. • Referring to the European offshore wind power investment model is beneficial for the development of offshore wind power in China. The low-carbon transition in China's power sector plays a crucial role in the mitigation of climate change worldwide, and increasing renewable energy penetration rate is widely recognized as the key approach to decarbonize this sector. This paper proposes a renewable energy penetration model to examine the feasibility for net zero emission by 2050 in China's power sector taking into account of economic and social development. It also evaluates the impacts of carbon pricing and financial incentives on renewable energy penetration and carbon emissions. The results indicate that along with economic development, China's electricity demand will continue to grow, but at a gradually slowing rate. It is possible for the power sector to achieve net zero emission by 2050 while meeting this growing electricity demand, with a renewable energy penetration rate of 75%. To ensure the achievement of the goal, we recommend setting the carbon price with the current market price as the baseline and increasing it annually by a relative increment index of 10%. Furthermore, given the high initial cost and late start of offshore wind power, we suggest incorporating associated grid connection cost into the transmission and distribution price to ensure the comprehensive and healthy development of renewable energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To date, there are few reports of the successful genetic transformation of larch and other conifers, mainly because it is difficult to transform and integrate exogenous genes. In this study, hybrid larch Larix kaempferi 3x Larix gmelinii 9 cones were collected on June 27, July 1, July 4, July 7 and July 16, 2017. Embryogenic callus induction was studied using a combination of different plant growth regulators and concentrations. The results showed that July 1 was the best stage; the highest induction rate was 10.83%, which cultured in BM medium (Button medium, which formula was listed in S1 Table) with 1.0 mg/L 2,4-D (2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) and 0.2 mg/L KT(kinetin). When cultured on a proliferation medium for 12 days, proliferation was the fastest, reaching 323.08%, which could also maintain the freshness and vitality. The suitable pre-culture medium for somatic embryogenesis was 1/4 BM medium containing 10 g/L inositol and 60 g/L sucrose. The combination of 45 mg/L ABA (abscisic acid) and 75 g/L PEG4000 (Polyethyene glycol 4000) could promote the number of somatic embryos, and reached the maximum, 210 140 per 1 g FW. The genetic transformation was carried out by the Agrobacterium-mediated transformation method with embryogenic callus cultured for 12 days. The results showed the optimal OD600 of the infection solution(suspension of A. tumefaciens) was 0.5, co-culture time was 2 days, and screening concentration of Hyg (hygromycin B) was 4 mg/L. In this study, the transformation rate of resistance callus was 32.1%. It provides a reference for low genetic transformation efficiency of larch at present. This study could be beneficial for the innovation and breeding of larch by genetic engineering and provides a certain basis for rapid propagation of excellent larch germplasm resources and genetic engineering breeding of larch and other conifers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel core-shell ZnO/BiOBr heterojunction was prepared by hydrothermal-ionic liquid method. • ZnO/BiOBr heterojunction exhibited an excellent visible-ligh photocatalytic activity. • Light absorption and photocarriers' migration were enhanced compared to ZnO or BiOBr. Core-shell ZnO/BiOBr heterojunction was prepared by a simple hydrothermal-ionic liquid method. Hollow ZnO microspheres were firstly synthesized by hydrothermal method. Then BiOBr nanosheets were evenly wrapped on the ZnO microspheres through an ionic-liquid method. The prepared dahlia-like core-shell ZnO/BiOBr microspheres had a much larger BET surface area and mesopore volume than that of ZnO. Its visible-light absorption and charge carrier's separation were greatly enhanced due to the synergistic effect of the core-shell nanostructure and formation of ZnO/BiOBr heterojunction. It had an excellent photocatalytic performance in the degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride (TC): 86.76 % TC was degraded after irradiation for 90 min., which was 1.38 times of the pure ZnO and 1.35 times of the BiOBr, respectively. [Display omitted] Core-shell ZnO/BiOBr heterojunction with high photocatalytic performance prepared by hydrothermal-ionic liquid method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lignin plays one of the most important roles in plant secondary metabolism. However, it is still unclear how lignin can contribute to the impressive height of wood growth. In this study, C3'H, a rate-limiting enzyme of the lignin pathway, was used as the target gene. C3'H3 was knocked out by CRISPR/Cas9 in Populus tomentosa. Compared with wild-type popular trees, c3'h3 mutants exhibited dwarf phenotypes, collapsed xylem vessels, weakened phloem thickening, decreased hydraulic conductivity and photosynthetic efficiency, and reduced auxin content, except for reduced total lignin content and significantly increased H-subunit lignin. In the c3'h3 mutant, the flavonoid biosynthesis genes CHS , CHI , F3H , DFR , ANR , and LAR were upregulated, and flavonoid metabolite accumulations were detected, indicating that decreasing the lignin biosynthesis pathway enhanced flavonoid metabolic flux. Furthermore, flavonoid metabolites, such as naringenin and hesperetin, were largely increased, while higher hesperetin content suppressed plant cell division. Thus, studying the c3'h3 mutant allows us to deduce that lignin deficiency suppresses tree growth and leads to the dwarf phenotype due to collapsed xylem and thickened phloem, limiting material exchanges and transport. • C3'H3 expressed in the highest level in C3H family • CRISPR/Cas9 mutated C3'H3 gene in Populus tomentosa show dwarf phenotype. • c3'h3 mutant reduced total lignin content and significantly increased H-subunit lignin. • Flavonoid metabolites were largely increased in c3'h3 mutant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red yeast Rhodosporidium toruloides naturally produces microbial lipids and carotenoids. In the past decade or so, many studies demonstrated R. toruloides as a promising platform for lipid production owing to its diverse substrate appetites, robust stress resistance and other favorable features. Also, significant progresses have been made in genome sequencing, multi-omic analysis and genome-scale modeling, thus illuminating the molecular basis behind its physiology, metabolism and response to environmental stresses. At the same time, genetic parts and tools are continuously being developed to manipulate this distinctive organism. Engineered R. toruloides strains are emerging for enhanced production of conventional lipids, functional lipids as well as other interesting metabolites. This review updates those progresses and highlights future directions for advanced biotechnological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dendrolimus spp. are important destructive pests of conifer forests, and Dendrolimus punctatus Walker (Lepidoptera; Lasiocampidae) is the most widely distributed Dendrolimus species. During periodic outbreaks, this species is said to make "fire without smoke" because large areas of pine forest can be quickly and heavily damaged. Yet, little is known about the molecular mechanisms that underlie the unique ecological characteristics of this forest insect. Here, we combined Pacific Biosciences (PacBio) RSII single‐molecule long reads and high‐throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi‐C) genomics‐linked reads to produce a high‐quality, chromosome‐level reference genome for D. punctatus. The final assembly was 614 Mb with contig and scaffold N50 values of 1.39 and 22.15 Mb, respectively, and 96.96% of the contigs anchored onto 30 chromosomes. Based on the prediction, this genome contained 17,593 protein‐coding genes and 56.16% repetitive sequences. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that D. punctatus diverged from the common ancestor of Hyphantria cunea, Spodoptera litura and Thaumetopoea pityocampa ~ 108.91 million years ago. Many gene families that were expanded in the D. punctatus genome were significantly enriched for the xenobiotic biodegradation system, especially the cytochrome P450 gene family. This high‐quality, chromosome‐level reference genome will be a valuable resource for understanding mechanisms of D. punctatus outbreak and host resistance adaption. Because this is the first Lasiocampidae insect genome to be sequenced, it also will serve as a reference for further comparative genomics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two novel tri‐substituted γ*‐Dawson‐type polyoxotungstates H12[P2W15O59{Co(H2O)}3]·15H2O (1) and H12[P2W15O59{Ni(H2O)}3]·15H2O (2) have been successfully synthesized under conventional solution conditions, and characterized in the solid state by powder and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and elemental analysis. Structural analysis indicates that they are the tri‐substituted γ*‐Dawson isomers, which are very rare in Dawson‐type polyoxometalates. The magnetic properties of both compounds were studied. In addition, the electrochemical properties of both compounds have also been investigated in H2SO4 aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The conventional method of power user clustering only considers physical and demand side information such as the amount and the peak and valley difference of power consumption. It is not appropriate in a new era where wholesale and retail power markets have been liberalized and power system has becoming increasingly intelligent. The new method developed in this study introduces price signals at both wholesale and retail power markets into the power user clustering and considers both business value and demand response value of power users on the basis of metric learning algorithm (MLA). The case study shows that this new method significantly improves the degree of separation between the business value and demand response value indicators of clusters and reveals the relationship between the wholesale power price and the weight of power consumption for a specific target. This new method can help power retailers in their business decision making and has strong applicability and expandability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus (P) is one of the most essential mineral elements and macronutrients required for plant growth and development, and its deficiency can affect the physiological and transcriptomic levels of plants, especially in acidic soils. Neolamarckia cadamba (N. cadamba) is a fast-growing tree species widely distributed in tropics and subtropics with acidic soils. However, the physiological and molecular responses of N. cadamba to phosphorus deficiency (PD) have not been well explored. Here, the responses of N. cadamba to PD stress were studied in hydroponic solution. PD stress reduced plant height, leaf size and biomass as well as photosynthetic capacity, but promoted root growth. Stem thickening of secondary xylem and lignification were promoted under PD stress. Meanwhile, the contents of P, Mg and Fe were significantly reduced, while those of Ca and Al were increased. Interestingly, antioxidant enzymes (e.g., POD, MDA, and CAT) were increased by PD stress, especially after 3 weeks. Transcriptome analysis showed that P uptake and transport-related genes PHT , PHO , PT , PAP , SPX , etc. were up-regulated in the root and stem of N. cadamba under PD stress. However, some genes involved in cation transporter and photosystem as well as chlorophyll proteins were down-regulated. Notably, genes associated with the lignin pathway and encoding reactive oxygen species (ROS) enzymes as well as transcription factors (mostly comprising MYB, bZIP, AP2, and HD-ZIP) were mainly up-regulated. Our findings provide new insights into the complex physiological and molecular mechanisms of the PD response in N. cadamba. • The physiology and molecular responses of Neolamarckia cadamba to phosphorus deficiency were studied. • Phosphorus deficiency stress inhibited plant growth and photosynthetic ability. • Phosphorus deficiency can promote the root growth and stem lignification. • Phosphorus uptake and transport-related genes PHT , PHO , PT , etc. were up-regulated under PD stress. • Genes encoding reactive oxygen species enzymes were mostly up-regulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing penetration of renewables, load flexibility is crucial to balance the power system in China. Data centers are rapidly growing energy consumers and their flexible operations could make them a potential source of load flexibility. However, there have been no large-scale attempts to apply this concept in China. This paper utilizes a hybrid research method to explore the flexibility potentials, identifying key technical, financial, policy, and institutional barriers. The study quantifies the flexibility potential of data centers in China and provides solutions for addressing the identified solutions. • A hybrid research method of literature review, questionnaire, and semi-structured interviews is employed. • Potentials, barriers, and possible solutions for data centers in China to provide flexibility are analyzed in four parts. • Power flexibility potentials of data centers in China is quantified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The superfine porous NiFe2O4 microspheres were successfully synthesized via a one-step solvothermal approach. • The porous NiFe2O4 sensors exhibited high and rapid response for selective detection of acetone gas. • The porous NiFe2O4 sensors exhibited low detection limit (200 ppb) to acetone gas. Spinel-type oxides have attracted a broad interest in sensing materials research owing to their high catalytic activity and flexibly tunable chemical properties. Here, we report the synthesis of superfine porous NiFe 2 O 4 microspheres by one-step solvothermal approach, in order to fabricate ultra-sensitive acetone sensors for real-time monitoring, relying on the high catalytic activity of NiFe 2 O 4 and effective mass transfer property of porous microspheres structure. The porous NiFe 2 O 4 sensors displayed high selectivity to acetone against other interfering gases, giving a high sensitivity (27.4), fast response time (2 s) towards 100 ppm acetone and low detection limit (200 ppb) at 250 °C. This paper proposed a general approach for fabricating highly sensitive gas sensor based on spinel-type oxides in monitoring volatile organic pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: MiRNAs (microRNA) are 18–24 nt endogenous noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, including tissue-specific, developmental timing and evolutionary conservation gene expression. Results: This study used high-throughput sequencing technology for the first time in Larix olgensis, predicted 78 miRNAs, including 12,229,003 reads sRNA, screened differentially expressed miRNAs. Predicting target genes was helpful for understanding the miRNA regulation function and obtained 333 corresponding target genes. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional annotation were analysed, mostly including nucleic acid binding, plant hormone signal transduction, pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis, and cellulose synthase. This study will lay the foundation for clarifying the complex miRNA-mediated regulatory network for growth and development. In view of this, spatio-temporal expression of miR396, miR950, miR164, miR166 and miR160 were analysed in Larix olgensis during the growth stages of not lignified, beginning of lignification, and completely lignified in different tissues (root, stem, and leaf) by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). There were differences in the expression of miRNAs in roots, stems and leaves in the same growth period. At 60 days, miR160, miR166 and miR396–2 exhibited the highest expression in leaves. At 120 days, most miRNAs in roots and stems decreased significantly. At 180 days, miRNAs were abundantly expressed in roots and stems. Meanwhile, analysis of the expression of miRNAs in leaves revealed that miR396–2 was reduced as time went on, whereas other miRNAs increased initially and then decreased. On the other hand, in the stems, miR166–1 was increase, whereas other miRNAs, especially miR160, miR164, miR396 and miR950–1, first decreased and then increased. Similarly, in the roots, miR950–2 first decreased and then increased, whereas other miRNAs exhibited a trend of continuous increase. Conclusions: The present investigation included rapid isolation and identification of miRNAs in Larix olgensis through construction of a sRNA library using Solexa and predicted 78 novel miRNAs, which showed differential expression levels in different tissues and stages. These results provided a theoretical basis for further revealing the genetic regulation mechanism of miRNA in the growth and development of conifers and the verification of function in target genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromosomal duplication is targeted by various chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of cancer. However, there is no specific inhibitor of DNA polymerases that is viable for cancer management. Through structure-based in silico screening of the ZINC database, we identified a specific inhibitor of DNA polymerase δ. The discovered inhibitor, Zelpolib, is projected to bind to the active site of Pol δ when it is actively engaged in DNA replication through interactions with DNA template and primer. Zelpolib shows robust inhibition of Pol δ activity in reconstituted DNA replication assays. Under cellular conditions, Zelpolib is taken up readily by cancer cells and inhibits DNA replication in assays to assess global DNA synthesis or single-molecule bases by DNA fiber fluorography. In addition, we show that Zelpolib displays superior antiproliferative properties to methotrexate, 5-flourouracil, and cisplatin in triple-negative breast cancer cell line, pancreatic cancer cell line and platinum-resistant pancreatic cancer cell line. Pol δ is not only involved in DNA replication, it is also a key component in many DNA repair pathways. Pol δ is the key enzyme responsible for D-loop extension during homologous recombination. Indeed, Zelpolib shows robust inhibition of homologous recombination repair of DNA double-strand breaks and induces "BRCAness" in HR-proficient cancer cells and enhances their sensitivity to PARP inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • One step synthesis of branched SnO 2 /ZnO heterostructures and their enhanced gas-sensing properties. • Branched SnO 2 /ZnO heterostructures were synthesized via a facile one-step hydrothermal method for the first time. • The branched SnO 2 /ZnO heterostructures exhibited excellent ethanol gas sensing property. • The branched SnO 2 /ZnO heterostructures exhibited fast response and recovery property for selective detection of ethanol. Abstract In this work, a novel branched heterostructural composite composed of nanorods ZnO backbone and SnO 2 branches was prepared via a facile one-step hydrothermal method. The morphology, structure and component of the SnO 2 /ZnO composite was characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and elemental mapping analysis. The evolution process of the SnO 2 /ZnO composite was observed by SEM that the SnO 2 branches gradually grow on ZnO backbones. The composite with novel heterostructure was applied as the sensing material for the fabrication of gas sensor, and their gas sensing properties were tested for response to various gases. Compared to pure ZnO gas sensors the branched SnO 2 /ZnO gas sensor exhibited enhanced gas sensing properties toward ethanol, giving a response of 18.1–100 ppm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • p12-knockout generates a HR deficiency phenotype. • Pol δ 4 is required for full expression of cellular HR activity. • p12 knockout cells are sensitized to PARP inhibitors. • p12 expression is a potential biomarker for the use of PARP inhibitors. • p12 deficiency may have a role in SCLC tumorigenesis. Abstract Human DNA polymerase δ is normally present in unstressed, non-dividing cells as a heterotetramer (Pol δ 4). Its smallest subunit, p12, is transiently degraded in response to UV damage, as well as during the entry into S-phase, resulting in the conversion of Pol δ 4 to a trimer (Pol δ 3). In order to further understand the specific cellular roles of these two forms of Pol δ, the gene (POLD4) encoding p12 was disrupted by CRISPR/Cas9 to produce p12 knockout (p12KO) cells. Thus, Pol δ 4 is absent in p12KO cells, leaving Pol δ 3 as the sole source of Pol δ activity. GFP reporter assays revealed that the p12KO cells exhibited a defect in homologous recombination (HR) repair, indicating that Pol δ4, but not Pol δ 3, is required for HR. Expression of Flag-tagged p12 in p12KO cells to restore Pol δ 4 alleviated the HR defect. These results establish a specific requirement for Pol δ 4 in HR repair. This leads to the prediction that p12KO cells should be more sensitive to chemotherapeutic agents, and should exhibit synthetic lethal killing by PARP inhibitors. These predictions were confirmed by clonogenic cell survival assays of p12KO cells treated with cisplatin and mitomycin C, and with the PARP inhibitors Olaparib, Talazoparib, Rucaparib, and Niraparib. The sensitivity to PARP inhibitors in H1299-p12KO cells was alleviated by expression of Flag-p12. These findings have clinical significance, as the expression levels of p12 could be a predictive biomarker of tumor response to PARP inhibitors. In addition, small cell lung cancers (SCLC) are known to exhibit a defect in p12 expression. Analysis of several SCLC cell lines showed that they exhibit hypersensitivity to PARP inhibitors, providing evidence that loss of p12 expression could represent a novel molecular basis for HR deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract We provide a novel and simple strategy for fabricating 3D inverse opal heterostructure composites multilayer films on target substrate and it could be used as n-n heterostructure-based gas sensor. Highlights • The 3D inverse opal (IO) ZnO-In 2 O 3 multilayer films (MFs) fabricated via a simple and effective strategy. • The large-scale 3D IO MFs can be easily transferred onto any target substrates without being destroyed. • The 3D IO ZnO-In 2 O 3 MFs sensor exhibits higher response toward acetone gas at lower operating temperature. Abstract The preparation of highly ordered porous semiconducting metal oxides (SMOs) films is a hot issue in the field of chemical sensor. Herein, we successfully fabricated 3D inverse opal (IO) ZnO-In 2 O 3 composites multilayer films (MFs) via a novel strategy that combing ultrasonic nebulization deposition technique with polystyrene (PS) spheres template. Such one-step synthetic method is advantageous to achieve the construction of large-scale interconnected macro-porous (pore size: ∼170 nm) structure in composites materials, which is beneficial for facilitating gas molecule transport into the sensing layers and accelerating the surface reactions process. More significantly, by using this method, the large-scale 3D IO MFs made in this work can be easily transferred onto any target substrates without being destroyed. Due to the IO multilayer films structure and abundant heterointerfaces, the 3D IO ZnO-In 2 O 3 MFs-based gas sensor exhibited higher response toward acetone at lower operating temperature, better selectivity and long-term stability, faster recovery speed and lower detection limit. Consequently, the approach described herein is more suitable for the synthesis of porous composites materials films, in order to fabricate high performance chemical sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous CuFe 2 O 4 nanospheres were successfully prepared via a facile solvothermal method with subsequent calcination treatment. Various techniques were employed to investigate the structural and morphological characteristics of the as-synthesized product. The results revealed that the hierarchical CuFe 2 O 4 porous nanospheres with a diameter of about 200 nm were composed of many nanoparticles. In addition, gas sensors were fabricated with the as-prepared samples, and their gas sensing performances were systematically investigated. Compared with pure CuO and Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles, the CuFe 2 O 4 nanostructure exhibited superior gas sensing properties toward acetone at the operating temperature of 250 °C, including high response, outstanding selectivity, and excellent response-recovery property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extension of the invading strand within a displacement loop (D -loop) is a key step in homology directed repair (HDR) of doubled stranded DNA breaks. The primary goal of these studies was to test the hypotheses that 1) D -loop extension by human DNA polymerase δ4 (Pol δ4) is facilitated by DHX9, a 3′ to 5′ motor helicase, which acts to unwind the leading edge of the D -loop, and 2) the recruitment of DHX9 is mediated by direct protein-protein interactions between DHX9 and Pol δ4 and/or PCNA. DNA synthesis by Pol δ4 was analyzed in a reconstitution assay by the extension of a 93mer oligonucleotide inserted into a plasmid to form a D -loop. Product formation by Pol δ4 was monitored by incorporation of [α-32P]dNTPs into the 93mer primer followed by denaturing gel electrophoresis. The results showed that DHX9 strongly stimulated Pol δ4 mediated D -loop extension. Direct interactions of DHX9 with PCNA, the p125 and the p12 subunits of Pol δ4 were demonstrated by pull-down assays with purified proteins. These data support the hypothesis that DHX9 helicase is recruited by Pol δ4/PCNA to facilitate D -loop synthesis in HDR, and is a participant in cellular HDR. The involvement of DHX9 in HDR represents an important addition to its multiple cellular roles. Such helicase-polymerase interactions may represent an important aspect of the mechanisms involved in D -loop primer extension synthesis in HDR. [Display omitted] • DHX9 helicase facilitates D -loop extension synthesis in double-strand break repair. • DHX9 stimulates DNA synthesis by Pol δ4 in the D -loop. • DHX9 exhibits direct protein-protein interactions with Pol δ4 and PCNA. • DHX9 is mechanistically involved in double-strand break repair. • This new role of DHX9 adds to its potential as a target for cancer therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To compare the clinical outcomes and prognosis of total pancreatectomy (TP) and pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) for the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), and to explore the safety and indications of TP. Methods: A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases from January 1943 to March 2023 for literatures comparing TP and PD in the treatment of PDAC. The primary outcome was postoperative overall survival (OS), and secondary outcomes included surgery time, blood loss, readmission, hospital stay, perioperative mortality, and overall morbidity. Fixed‐effect or random‐effect models were selected based on heterogeneity, and odds ratio (OR), mean difference (MD), or hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Results: A total of six studies involving 8396 patients were included in the meta‐analysis. There was no statistically significant difference in OS after surgery between the two groups (HR = 1.08, 95% CI: 0.91–1.27; P = 0.38). The TP group had a longer surgery time (MD = 13.66, 95% CI: 4.57–22.75; P = 0.003) and more blood loss (MD = 133.17, 95% CI: 8.00–258.33; P = 0.04) than the PD group. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of hospital stay (MD = 0.09, 95% CI: −2.04 to 2.22; P = 0.93), readmission rate (OR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.00–1.92; P = 0.05), perioperative mortality (OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 0.98–1.69; P = 0.07), and overall morbidity (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.50–1.26; P = 0.33). Conclusion: The surgical process of TP is relatively complex, but there is no difference in short‐term clinical outcomes and OS compared to PD, making it a safe and reliable procedure. Indications and treatment outcomes for planned TP and salvage TP may differ, and more research is needed in the future for further classification and verification [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of FGF2 and FGFR2 in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and lung cancer (LC) as well as their clinical significance. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and western blotting were used to detect FGF2 and FGFR2 expression in LC and adjacent normal tissues of LC patients and lavage fluid of idiopathic pulmonary fibers patients and normal controls (confirmed by bronchoalveolar lavage examination). The expression levels of FGF2 mRNA and protein in the non-small cell LC tissues were significantly higher than those in the adjacent normal tissues (P<0.001). The expression level of FGF2 protein in lavage fluid of patients with IPF was higher than that of the control group (P<0.001). The expression level of FGFR2 mRNA in the non-small cell LC tissues was significantly higher than that in the adjacent normal tissues (P<0.001). The expression level of FGFR2 protein in the non-small cell LC tissues was higher than that in the adja- adjacent normal lung tissues (P<0.001). The expression levels of FGF2 mRNA and FGFR2 mRNA in cancer tissues were not significantly correlated with age, sex and history of smoking (P>0.05), but were significantly correlated with lymph node metastasis, tumor differentiation and TNM staging. FGF2 and FGFR2 proteins were highly expressed in cancer tissues of LC patients and lavage fluid of patients with IPF. The expression of FGF2 mRNA and FGFR2 mRNA was correlated with lymph node metastasis and TNM stage. The high expression levels of FGF2 mRNA and FGFR2 mRNA were associated with tumor metastasis and poor prognosis of LC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Big data are data too big to be handled and analyzed by traditional software tools, big data can be characterized by five V’s features: volume, velocity, variety, value and veracity. However, in the real world, some big data have another feature, i.e., class imbalanced, such as e-health big data, credit card fraud detection big data and extreme weather forecast big data are all class imbalanced. In order to deal with the problem of classifying binary imbalanced big data, based on MapReduce, non-iterative learning, ensemble learning and oversampling, this paper proposed an promising algorithm which includes three stages. Firstly, for each positive instance, its enemy nearest neighbor is found with MapReduce, and p positive instances are randomly generated with uniform distribution in its enemy nearest neighbor hypersphere, i.e., oversampling p positive instances within the hypersphere. Secondly, l balanced data subsets are constructed and l classifiers are trained on the constructed data subsets with an non-iterative learning approach. Finally, the trained classifiers are integrated by fuzzy integral to classify unseen instances. We experimentally compared the proposed algorithm with three related algorithms: SMOTE, SMOTE+RF-BigData and MR-V-ELM, and conducted a statistical analysis on the experimental results. The experimental results and the statistical analysis demonstrate that the proposed algorithm outperforms the other three methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-way decisions model proposed by Yao gives a semantic interpretation of positive region, negative region and boundary region. This model was developed in the framework of classical rough set, the approached target concept is a crisp set, the employed knowledge is a equivalence relation. In this paper, we extend the three-way decisions model to rough fuzzy set. Specifically, the target concept is extended to a fuzzy set, while the used knowledge is also a equivalence relation. An example is given to illustrate the computation processes of the proposed three-way decisions model. The extended model can deal with the problems described by fuzzy decision tables with symbolic-valued conditional attributes and fuzzy decision attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind curtailment is currently one of the major challenges in China’s renewable energy development. Technical solutions to wind curtailment could include more flexible power sources, storage and grid facilities. These, however, are long-term solutions due to physical, economic and institutional constraints. We argue that an effective short-term solution could be the full utilization of the technical potential of the existing power system, particularly by using China’s dominant coal-fired power capacity to provide peak regulation services for the priority dispatch of wind power. This paper assesses the economic and environmental effects of this approach. To this end, four scenarios are developed: Scenario I—full wind curtailment and average dispatch of coal-fired power, Scenario II—no wind curtailment and average dispatch of coal-fired power, Scenario III— no wind curtailment and optimal dispatch of coal-fired power, and Scenario IV —partial wind curtailment and optimal dispatch of coal-fired power. The economic and environmental effects under the four scenarios are then computed using the GAMS program based on the load curve on a typical spring day for a coal-fired power plant and a wind farm in China’s northeastern Harbin City. The results of our research show that whilst Scenario IV has the best economic effects, Scenarios III and IV have the best environmental effects. Scenario IV is considered the optimal solution as more economic benefits could be realized at the expense of smaller wind curtailment. Drawing on these results, it is recommended to amend the Renewable Energy Law to allow a small proportion of renewable energy curtailment; to enhance the flexibility of the existing coal-fired power units; to advance energy efficient power dispatch approach; and to incentivise coal-fired power to provide peak regulation services for renewable energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-grid mixed finite element method is proposed based on backward Euler schemes for the unsteady reaction-diffusion equations. The scheme combines with the stabilized mixed finite element scheme by using the lowest equal-order pairs for the velocity and pressure. The space two-grid method is also used to reduce the time consuming. The benefits of this approach are to avoid the higher derivative, but to have more favorable stability, and to get the numerical solution of the two unknown variables simultaneously. Stability analysis and error estimates are given in this work. Finally, the theoretical results are verified by the numerical examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic performance of semiconductor heterojunction is greatly influenced by integration degree of the components. In this work, BiVO 4 nanosheets were in situ synthesized on BiOBr microsphere and a well-integrated BiVO 4 /BiOBr heterojunction was prepared. This method effectively prevented the agglomeration of BiVO 4 nanosheets. The BiVO 4 /BiOBr heterojunction had a larger BET surface area, faster transfer of charge carriers and a much better photocatalytic performance than that of BiVO 4. Compared with BiOBr, it had an enhanced visible-light absorbance and a better cyclic stability. Possible photocatalytic mechanism of the BiVO 4 /BiOBr heterojunction was proposed. [Display omitted] • Flower-like BiVO 4 /BiOBr was prepared by a two-step method. • BiVO 4 nanosheets were in situ constructed on the out part of BiOBr microspheres. • Light absorbance and transfer of charge carriers were enhanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pheromone-binding proteins (PBPs) play an important role in the recognition of pheromones by insects. However, the abilities of these PBPs to discriminate pheromone components and recognize the isomers are unclear. Dendrolimus houi and Dendrolimus kikuchii are two sympatric coniferous pests whose pheromones have cis-trans isomers. We used these insect species to detect the precise recognition abilities of PBPs. The four PBPs examined showed male-biased antenna-intensive expression patterns, whereas PBP1 showed higher expression than PBP2 in the antenna. DhouPBP1 only bound to a minor interspecific pheromone component, whereas DhouPBP2 bound to all three intraspecific components and another minor interspecific component. DkikPBP1 and DkikPBP2 could recognize all three intraspecific components with affinities negatively correlated with their ratios, and they bound to interspecific pheromones with affinity that was positively correlated with the ratios. The four PBPs have different cis-trans isomer discrimination abilities, i.e., DhouPBP1 and DkikPBP1 could not discriminate the two cis-trans isomer pairs of pheromones from the two species, whereas DhouPBP2 could discriminate between both pairs, and DkikPBP2 could only discriminate one pair. Overall, PBPs from D. houi and D. kikuchii use different strategies to help the moths to discriminate the intra- and interspecific pheromone components. Our work will contribute to better understanding of the sex pheromone recognition mechanism in these two sister species of moths and provide insights into more effective management practices of these pest species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DSPV (Distributed solar PV) power, either located on rooftops or ground-mounted, is by far one of the most important and fast-growing renewable energy technologies. Since the second half of 2012, China has shifted from LSPV (large-scale solar PV) to DSPV and a series of policy to promote DSPV power deployment have been put in place. Unfortunately these policies were not well performed due to myriad constraints on DSPV power deployment across the country. Building mainly on non-academic sources including government documents and presentations, industry reports and presentations, media reports, and interviews, this paper firstly provides a comprehensive review of China's policy on DSPV passed between the second half of 2012 and the first half of 2014, then barriers associated with DSPV deployment are identified. This is followed by an account and discussions of recent policy changes since Sep 2014, and major local incentives. In addition, policy performance is briefly reviewed. At the end of the paper, conclusions and policy implications are provided. This paper provides an understanding of the recent DSPV policy progress in China and insights for policy makers in other economies which are experimenting DSPV power policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stabilization problem of networked distributed systems with partial and event-based couplings is investigated. The channels, which are used to transmit different levels of information of agents, are considered. The channel matrix is introduced to indicate the work state of the channels. An event condition is designed for each channel to govern the sampling instants of the channel. Since the event conditions are separately given for different channels, the sampling instants of channels are mutually independent. To stabilize the system, the state feedback controllers are implemented in the system. The control signals also suffer from the two communication constraints. The sufficient conditions in terms of linear matrix equalities are proposed to ensure the stabilization of the controlled system. Finally, a numerical example is given to demonstrate the advantage of our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As part of its energy transition strategy, China has set ambitious targets for increasing the contribution of renewable energy and, in particular, of wind power. However, the Chinese power sector has not undergone the necessary reforms to facilitate the integration and absorption of a larger share of variable renewable energy. This is evident from the difficulties in absorbing wind power from already commissioned wind farms and the resultant curtailment of wind power. Pumped storage hydroelectricity (PSH) is a flexible power source that can facilitate higher penetration levels of wind power as well as complement China’s growing nuclear power capacity. However, regulatory policy constraints have restricted the effective utilization of existing PSH capacity and discouraged investment in new PSH capacity. This paper examines these constraints and assesses the likely impact of new policies designed to address them. Finally, policy recommendations and concluding remarks are provided. This paper contributes to the literature on renewable energy integration from a new perspective. The lessons from China are relevant to other countries going through the energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, an increasing number of Chinese wind power firms have been going international in search of global market for development channels. By employing qualitative research and case study methods, this paper examines the export scale and markets of China’s wind turbines, the market entry modes and location choices of China’s outward foreign direct investment (FDI) in the wind power sector, identifies the determinants and prospects of Chinese wind firms’ internationalization, as well as provides policy implications. It is found that Chinese wind power firms has chosen to internationalize very differently from the Uppsala model in that the exports and FDI of Chinese wind power firms both took place around 2008, and the exports and FDI of Chinese wind power firms are closely linked. The determinants of Chinese wind firms’ internationalization are the competitive advantages of leading Chinese wind firms and the intensified domestic market competition, followed by Chinese government support for internationalization and the attractive overseas market. The prospects of Chinese wind firms’ internationalization are bright but challenging. Drawn on this analysis, conclusions and three policy implications are provided at the end of the paper. This paper contributes to the study of China’s wind power sector from a new perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson disease is a multi-system neurodegenerative disease characterized by both motor and non-motor symptoms. Hyposmia is one of the early non-motor symptoms occurring in more than 90% of Parkinson disease cases, which can precede motor symptoms even several years. Up to now, the relationship between hyposmia and Parkinson disease remains elusive. Lack of proper animal models of hyposmia restricts the investigation. In this study we assessed olfactory function in Prp-A53T-α-synuclein transgenic (αSynA53T) mice which had been reported to show age-dependent motor impairments and intracytoplasmic inclusions. We also examined cholinergic and dopaminergic systems in olfactory bulb of αSynA53T mice by immunofluorescent staining, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and western blot. We found that compared to wild type littermates, αSynA53T mice at 6 months or older displayed a deficit of odor discrimination and odor detection. No significant changes were found in olfactory memory and odor habituation. Furthermore compared to wildtype littermates, in olfactory bulb of αSynA53T mice at 10 months old we detected a marked decrease of cholinergic neurons in mitral cell layer and a decrease of acetylcholinesterase activity, while dopaminergic neurons were found increased in glomerular layer, accompanied with an increase of tyrosine hydroxylase protein. Our studies indicate that αSynA53T mice have olfactory dysfunction before motor deficits occur, and the cholinergic and dopaminergic disturbance might be responsible for the Parkinson disease-related olfactory dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Odorant binding proteins (OBPs) play important roles in insect olfactory processes. The Chinese pine caterpillar moth, Dendrolimus tabulaeformis (Lepidoptera, Lasiocampidae) is a serious economic pest in China, and the pheromones of this species have been identified to monitor their presence. However, the molecular mechanisms by which D. tabulaeformis perceive pheromones and host volatiles remain unknown. In this study, we identified and characterized three new OBPs, including one pheromone binding protein (PBP1) and two general odor binding proteins (GOBPs), from antennal cDNA of D. tabulaeformis. The deduced amino acid sequences of DtabPBP1, DtabGOBP1, and DtabGOBP2 revealed mature proteins of 140, 147, and 140 amino acids, respectively. Each has six cysteine residues in conserved positions relative to other known OBPs. Amino-acid alignments indicated that the two GOBPs are more conserved (DtabGOBP1 is 52.9-67.4 % identical to orthologs from other Lepidoptera, and DtabGOBP2 is 55.2-81.8 % identical) than the PBP (32.5-46.0 %). Real-time PCR indicated tissue- and sex-specific expression patterns of the three genes. DtabPBP1 was mainly expressed in the antennae of males, whereas female antennae had only 1.09 % the expression in male antennae. Both DtabGOBP1 and DtabGOBP2 were more highly expressed in antennae than in other tissues, while DtabGOBP1 was more abundant in male antennae and DtabGOBP2 in female antennae. In addition, the binding specificities of the three proteins were investigated, and all three OBPs exhibited high binding affinities for the pheromone component (5 Z,7 E)-5,7-dodecadien-1-yl propionate ( Z5, E7-12:OPr). This suggests a role in binding pheromone for GOBPs, as well as PBP1, in D. tabulaeformis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Himalaya and Lhasa blocks act as the main belt of convergence and collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates. Their crustal structures can be used to understand the dynamic process of continent–continent collision. Herein, we present a 3D crustal density model beneath these two tectonic blocks constrained by a review of all available active seismic and passive seismological results on the velocity structure of crust and lower lithosphere. From our final crustal density model, we infer that the present subduction-angle of the Indian plate is small, but presents some variations along the west–east extension of the orogenic belt: The dip angle of the Moho interface is about 8–9° in the eastern and western part of the orogenic belt, and about 16° in the central part. Integrating crustal P-wave velocity distribution from wide-angle seismic profiling, geothermal data and our crustal density model, we infer a crustal composition model, which is composed of an upper crust with granite–granodiorite and granite gneiss beneath the Lhasa block; biotite gneiss and phyllite beneath the Himalaya, a middle crust with granulite facies and possible pelitic gneisses, and a lower crust with gabbro–norite–troctolite and mafic granulite beneath the Lhasa block. Our density structure (<3.2g/cm3) and composition (no fitting to eclogite) in the lower crust do not be favor to the speculation of ecologitized lower crust beneath Himalaya and the southern of Lhasa block. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Wind power and solar PV power are the two major renewable energy technologies that are currently under rapid development in China. In this paper, the similarities and differences between the development trajectories of the two sectors are examined in terms of development status, development policy and development trend. Five interesting findings from the comparison are obtained and several policy recommendations are made. This paper contributes to the study on China's renewable energy policy from a new perspective. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] We described the ultrastructure of antennal sensilla of Acantholyda posticalis. [•] We found a special type of basiconic sensilla with both a terminal pore and numerous wall pores. [•] Variation of the antenna distal flagellomere was described by scanning electron microscope. [•] Information obtained from the sensilla structure can promote the chemical ecology studies of Pamphiliidae. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: China''s PV industry has developed rapidly in recent years due to the dramatic demand from the world market. In contrast, until 2010 China''s domestic PV market has been very small due to lack of sufficient incentives in the country to promote domestic PV deployment. However, since early 2009 many incentives have been implemented in China. The paper makes an analysis on China''s solar PV incentive policies, particularly the national FIT scheme. Policy recommendations are made with regard to the promotion of the domestic solar PV market, including the construction of an effective national FIT scheme, the imposition of renewable portfolio system as well as the establishment of sound technical and administration standards for the grid-connection of PV systems. The paper contributes to the academic literature over China''s solar PV power policy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In vitro assay of mammalian DNA replication has been variously approached. Using gapped circular duplex substrates containing a 500-base single-stranded DNA region, we have constructed a mammalian cell-free system in which physiological DNA replication may be reproduced. Reaction of the gapped plasmid substrate with crude extracts of human HeLaS3 cells induces efficient DNA synthesis in vitro. The induced synthesis was strongly inhibited by aphidicolin and completely depended on dNTP added to the system. In cell extracts in which PCNA was depleted step-wise by immunoprecipitation, DNA synthesis was accordingly reduced. These data suggest that replicative DNA polymerases, particularly pol delta, may chiefly function in this system. Furthermore, DNA synthesis is made quantifiable in this system, which enables us to evaluate the efficiency of DNA replication induced. Our system sensitively and quantitatively detected the reduction of the DNA replication efficiency in the DNA substrates damaged by oxidation or UV cross-linking and in the presence of a potent chain terminator, ara-CTP. The quantitative assessment of mammalian DNA replication may provide various advantages not only in basic research but also in drug development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In both budding and fission yeast, a large number of ribonucleotides are incorporated into DNA during replication by the major replicative polymerases (Pols α, δ and ɛ). They are subsequently removed by RNase H2-dependent repair, which if defective leads to replication stress and genome instability. To extend these studies to humans, where an RNase H2 defect results in an autoimmune disease, here we compare the ability of human and yeast Pol δ to incorporate, proofread, and bypass ribonucleotides during DNA synthesis. In reactions containing nucleotide concentrations estimated to be present in mammalian cells, human Pol δ stably incorporates one rNTP for approximately 2000 dNTPs, a ratio similar to that for yeast Pol δ. This result predicts that human Pol δ may introduce more than a million ribonucleotides into the nuclear genome per replication cycle, an amount recently reported to be present in the genome of RNase H2-defective mouse cells. Consistent with such abundant stable incorporation, we show that the 3′-exonuclease activity of yeast and human Pol δ largely fails to edit ribonucleotides during polymerization. We also show that, like yeast Pol δ, human Pol δ pauses as it bypasses ribonucleotides in DNA templates, with four consecutive ribonucleotides in a DNA template being more problematic than single ribonucleotides. In conjunction with recent studies in yeast and mice, this ribonucleotide incorporation may be relevant to impaired development and disease when RNase H2 is defective in mammals. As one tool to investigate ribonucleotide incorporation by Pol δ in human cells, we show that human Pol δ containing a Leu606Met substitution in the polymerase active site incorporates 7-fold more ribonucleotides into DNA than does wild type Pol δ. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Even though China''s wind power industry has experienced a rapid growth since the beginning of this century, the utilization of wind power is still worrisome. In 2010, about 30% of China''s total installed capacity could not get access to the grid. And about 10% of China''s total wind power generation was curtailed. The problem of wind power curtailment is more prominent in Northeast-China region. The main particularity of Northeast China Grid is as follows: during the long heating period in winter, combined heat and power thermal plants need to modify the turbine generator''s output to meet the heating demand and thus the thermal power peak regulation capacity is reduced, as a result the barriers of wind power consumption are increased. This paper provides a new perspective of the constraints on the effective utilization of wind power in the Northeast China Grid. We argue that there are two categories of constrained factors: structural factor and operational factor. The former includes grid structure, wind source structure, power source structure, and market structure. The latter includes power price mechanism, dispatch mode arrangement, wind power integration codes, and wind power forecast. At last, we make policy recommendations: promote the coordination between wind farm investment and grid construction, strengthen interprovincial power trade mechanism, implement flexible pricing mechanisms as well as improve current dispatch mode, etc. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: During 2010 and 2011, China had been the largest producer of wind turbines in the world for two consecutive years. How China can transform from being the largest producer to being the strongest producer of wind turbines is currently a great concern in the industry. The purpose of this paper is to discuss this issue from the perspective of the international competitiveness of China''s wind turbine manufacturing industry. Firstly, the paper establishes a model for evaluating the international competitiveness of wind turbine manufacturing industry, which consists of five first-level indexes and 10 second-level indexes. Then, the paper uses these indexes to evaluate the international competitiveness of six leading wind turbine companies in the world—Vestas (Denmark), Gamesa (Germany), GE Wind (the USA), Nordex (Spain), Suzlon (India) and Sinovel (China). The result shows that the international competitiveness of the Chinese wind turbine company, Sinovel, ranked the fifth, lagging behind Vestas, Gamesa, GE Wind and Suzlon. Finally, the paper makes in-depth analysis on the major factors that hamper the international competitiveness of China''s wind turbine manufacturing industry and provides implications for future development of the industry. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Early biochemical studies have demonstrated that lipid accumulation by oleaginous yeasts is linked to the activity of the NAD-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase (Idh). However, molecular study of Idh of oleaginous microorganisms remains limited. Here, we present the cloning of a mitochondrial NAD-specific Idh from Rhodosporidium toruloides (RtIdh), an excellent microbial lipid producer that uses carbohydrates as the carbon source. The evolutionary relationship analyses among RtIdhs and other yeast Idhs revealed that RtIdh had a closer relationship with the Idhs of Ustilago maydis and Schizophyllum commune. We expressed the Rt IDH gene in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae idhΔ mutant. Under the nitrogen-limited condition, the intracellular lipid content and extracellular citrate concentration of the culture of the S. cerevisiae idhΔ carrying the Rt IDH gene increased as the carbon/nitrogen molar ratio of the media increased, while the wild-type S. cerevisiae strain showed no correlation. Our data provided valuable information for elucidating the molecular mechanism of microbial oleaginicity and for engineering microorganisms to produce metabolites of fatty acid pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Between 2006 and 2010 the installed capacity of wind power in China has doubled and by 2010 China''s cumulative installed capacity of wind power ranked the first in the world, surpassing the United States. However, the rapid expansion of installed capacity has not been matched by grid connection, and this deficiency has aroused the concern of both policy makers and scholars. Unlike most of the current studies which focus on technical strategies in China''s wind power industry, this paper analyzes the problem from a policy perspective. The paper analyzes the four challenges that large scale wind power integration in China faces: the uncoordinated development between wind power capacity and power grids; the lack of suitable technical codes for wind power integration; the unclear nature of the grid companies’ responsibility for grid connection; and the inadequate economic incentives for grid enterprises. To address these problems, the paper recommends that the government: formulates policies to better coordinate the development of wind power and the planning and construction of power grids; establishes grid codes that reflect in particular the requirements to be met by users of power transmission and distribution networks; and integrates administrative intervention and economic incentive policies to stimulate the grid enterprises’ enthusiasm to absorb wind power generation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Inulinase is an important enzyme used in the high fructose syrup and other related industries. A more cost-effective approach is required for producing highly active inulinase. In this study, the gene encoding inulinase of the yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus CBS 6556 was expressed in methylotrophic host Pichia pastoris and secretory production of recombinant inulinase (rKmINU) in the yeast under methanol induction was achieved. The purified rKmINU showed a specific activity of 2714U/mg, which is over 12-fold higher than those of other inulinases described previously. It displayed excellent stability from 30 to 50°C and pH 3.0–5.0, and the half-life of rKmINU was over 96h under these conditions. Moreover, rKmINU saccharified Jerusalem artichoke tuber juice effectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Hexagonal prism-like and plate-like wurtzite zinc oxide (ZnO) single crystals have been grown in a molten hydrous alkali solution using the spontaneous nucleation method. It has been found that the growth habit of the crystals depends strongly on the basicity of the solution. In molten hydrous KOH solution, the highest growth rate of the crystal is along the +c-axis and slender hexagonal prisms were obtained. In molten hydrous KOH+LiOH or NaOH+LiOH solutions, the growth rate of the +c face slows down as more LiOH is introduced to the solution, resulting in the formation of thin hexagonal plates. This was confirmed by XRD analysis of the single crystals. We conclude that the growth habit of ZnO crystals can be successfully controlled by adjusting the basicity of the solution. It is proposed that there are two individual growth units, [Zn(OH)3(H2O)]− and [Zn(OH)4]2−, in the solution. The growth habit can be explained by the polar structure of the ZnO single crystal and the character of the growth units. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The glycoside hydrolase β-1,3-glucomannanase is an enzyme that specifically breaks the β-1,3 glycosidic bond of the glucomannan, the main cell wall constituent of some yeasts. In this work, a codon optimized DNA sequence of the MAN5C gene from Penicillium lilacinum ATCC 36010 was expressed in the yeast Pichia pastoris under the control of AOX1 promoter. The recombinant protein plMAN5C was purified from the shake flask culture and the stirred-tank bioreactor culture in yields of 30.0mg/l and 224.0mg/l, respectively. The purified protein had a specific activity of 14.6U/mg at 37°C, pH 4.5. Biochemical analysis showed that the optimal temperature and pH for plMAN5C were 50°C and 4.5, respectively. The recombinant plMAN5C was efficient in lysis of the cell wall of the red yeast Rhodosporidium toruloides to form protoplast. Our work provided an effective system for heterogeneous production of β-1,3-glucomannanase, which should facilitate a more convenient application of this enzyme in biotechnology and other related areas. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper firstly presents an overview of wind energy potential in China and discusses the features of small wind power system deployment. Then it reviews the current status of small wind power development in China. The future perspectives of and barriers to small wind power development in China are predicted and analyzed. Finally some policies for promoting small wind power development in China are recommended. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the current status of small wind power in China and some insights into the prospects of small wind power market in China. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]