The 2015 Nobel Laureates in Chemistry and Physiology & Medicine are also featured to showcase their remarkable scientific contributions that have benefitted mankind. In the Spotlights section, Professor Daniela Rhodes from Nanyang Technological University shares with us on her research journey to an established and now to one of the most renowned scientists in structural biology who has spent most of her research career at the Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) and University of Cambridge, UK.

The second Spotlight is a featured interview with Professor Xu Zhang arranged by the Shanghai team at the World Scientific Publishing. Prof Zhang is a molecular and cellular expert in the mechanisms of nociception and chronic pain, and he discusses on the insights of pain modulations.

For the general overview of China's progress in research, scientists in China have certainly made an impressive progress in biotechnology and material sciences, as seen in the section of Eye on China APBN. Thirteenth Five-year Plan (2016-2020) goals will be announced in the first quarter of 2016. The most recent news from China is the abolishment of one-child policy. It is also a give-away hint that China is recognizing the risk of an irreversible damage on the outlook of socioeconomic and environmental factors.

Columns are also available in this issue: I) What to expect in 2050; II) International Mountain Day: Are we making a mountain out of a molehill?

And I shall sign-off wishing you a Merry Christmas.