Abstract: The present disclosure provides mutant cells for the secretion of proteins and for the degradation of lignocellulosic biomass. Methods for the use of these cells are also provided. Specifically, the utility of combined genetic deletions of ?-glucosidases and the catabolite repressor gene creA/cre-1 for protein secretion in fungal and yeast cells is disclosed.

Abstract: Superconducting articles and a method of forming them, where the superconducting phase of an article is Bi.sub.2 Sr.sub.2 CaCu.sub.2 O.sub.y (Bi-2212). Alumina is combined with Bi-2212 powder or Bi-2212 precursor powder and, in order to form an intimate mixture, the mixture is melted and rapidly cooled to form a glassy solid. The glassy solid is comminuted and the resulting powder is combined with a carrier. An alternative to melting is to form the mixture of nanophase alumina and material having a particle size of less than about 10 microns. The powder, with the carrier, is melt processed to form a superconducting article.