Application Of CE Research Articles

Transcriptomics combined with physiological analysis provided new insights into the enhancing Dendrobium nobile resilience to Cu stress through Ce modulation

In the face of escalating environmental challenges, understanding the mechanisms through which plants can resist heavy metal stress is paramount. This study delves into the efficacy of cerium (Ce), a rare earth element, in mitigating copper (Cu) toxicity in Dendrobium nobile Lindl., an orchid plant with significant medicinal and ornamental value. Through a comprehensive experimental approach that encompasses physiological, biochemical, and molecular analyses, we demonstrate that Ce application notably enhances D. nobile's tolerance to Cu stress. The investigation revealed that Ce supplementation significantly ameliorated the adverse effects of Cu on plant growth, evidenced by a notable decrease in Cu accumulation within the plant tissues. At the molecular level, transcriptome sequencing uncovered the upregulation of genes involved in antioxidant defense mechanisms, heavy metal chelation, and stress response signaling pathways. Key findings include the enhanced activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase, alongside an increase in the levels of antioxidants and phytochelatins, which collectively contribute to the detoxification of Cu. Furthermore, Ce was found to influence the subcellular distribution of Cu, promoting its sequestration in less harmful cellular compartments. Our study provides novel insights into the role of Ce in modulating plant responses to heavy metal stress, highlighting its potential as a mitigative agent against Cu toxicity. The elucidation of specific gene regulations and pathway activations offers a foundation for future research aimed at enhancing plant resilience to environmental stresses through biotechnological interventions.

Ligand-to-Metal Charge Transfer (LMCT) Catalysis: Harnessing Simple Cerium Catalysts for Selective Functionalization of Inert C-H and C-C Bonds.

ConspectusChemists have long pursued harnessing light energy and photoexcitation processes for synthetic transformations. Ligand-to-metal charge transfer (LMCT) in high-valent metal complexes often triggers bond homolysis, generating oxidized ligand-centered radicals and reduced metal centers. While photoinduced oxidative activations can be enabled, this process, typically seen as photochemical decomposition, remains underexplored in catalytic applications. To mitigate decomposition during LMCT excitation, we developed a catalytic cycle integrating in situ coordination, LMCT, and ligand homolysis to activate ligated alcohols transiently into alkoxy radicals. This catalytic approach leverages Ce(IV) LMCT excitation and highly reactive alkoxy radical intermediates for selective functionalizations of C(sp3)-H and C(sp3)-C(sp3) bonds under mild conditions. In this Account, we discuss these advancements, highlighting the practical utility of cost-effective cerium salts as catalysts and their potential to develop innovative transformations, addressing long-standing synthetic challenges.Selective functionalization of chemically inert C(sp3)-H bonds has long posed a significant challenge. We first detail our research using LMCT-enabled alkoxy radical-mediated hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) processes for selective C(sp3)-H functionalizations. Using readily available CeCl3, we established a general protocol for employing free alcohols in the Barton reaction. By integrating LMCT and HAT catalysis, we introduced a selective photocatalytic strategy for functionalizing feedstock alkanes, converting gaseous hydrocarbons into valuable products. Employing simple cerium salts like Ce(OTf)3 and CeCl3, we achieved selective C-H amination of methane and ethane at ambient temperature, achieving turnover numbers of 2900 and 9700, respectively. This catalytic manifold has been further exploited to address the site-selectivity challenge in the C-H functionalization of linear alkanes. The use of methanol as a cocatalyst enabled preferential functionalization of the most electron-rich sites, achieving a high intrinsic selectivity over 12:1 of secondary vs primary sites in pentane and hexane.Next, we discuss the catalytic utilization of alkoxy-radical-mediated β-scission, a frequently encountered side reaction in HAT transformations, for selective cleavage and functionalization of C-C bonds. The versatility of the LMCT catalytic platform facilitates the generation of alkoxy radicals from various free alcohols. In our initial demonstration of LMCT-enabled C(sp3)-C(sp3) bond activation, we developed a cerium-catalyzed ring-opening and amination of cycloalkanols, providing an effective protocol for cleaving unstrained C-C bonds. This strategy has been successfully applied to various radical cross-coupling processes, leading to innovative transformations such as ring expansions of cycloalkanols, dehydroxymethylative alkylation, amination, alkenylation, and ring expansions of cyclic ketones. These results highlight the synthetic potential of employing LMCT-mediated β-scission and ubiquitous C-C bonds as unconventional functional handles for generating molecular complexity.Lastly, we delve into our mechanistic investigations. Beyond the catalytic application of Ce(IV) LMCT in various transformations, we have undertaken comprehensive mechanistic studies. These investigations encompass characterization of Ce(IV) alkoxide complexes to elucidate their structures, evaluation of their photoactivity and selectivity in radical generation, and elucidation of kinetic pathways associated with transient LMCT excited states. Our research has revealed ultrafast bond homolysis, back electron transfer, and the selectivity of heteroleptic complexes in homolysis, providing crucial insights for advancing LMCT catalysis.

Nitrates of cerium and samarium deposit on human enamel independently of a salivary pellicle.

The aim of this study was to analyze the precipitation of Cerium(III)nitrate hexahydrate [Ce(NO3)3] or Samarium(III)nitrate hexahydrate [Sm(NO3)3] solutions on human enamel with and without a salivary pellicle. Investigated parameters were At%Ce and At%Sm measured using energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) after test solution (two concentrations) application. Precipitation of Ce(NO3)3 and Sm(NO3)3 solutions was examined on human enamel with and without a salivary pellicle. 6 enamel specimens each were obtained from 12 freshly extracted human third molars. These specimens were ground flat and polished. A salivary pellicle was created on 3 of the 6 specimens per tooth by storing the samples in human saliva. Subsequently, an aqueous solution of Ce(NO3)3 was applied to 2 of the 6 specimens (one with, one without salivary pellicle) for 60 s. The same was carried out with an aqueous solution of Sm(NO3)3 on 2 further specimens. The remaining 2 specimens from each tooth were treated with demineralized water (negative control). Ce(NO3)3 and Sm(NO3)3 solutions were applied at 25 or 50 wt% (aqueous solutions). The test materials and concentrations were distributed using a randomization table. After 60 s exposure and rinsing with demineralized water, the elemental composition (Ce, Sm, Ca, P, O, N, Na, Mg) of the enamel surface was analyzed by EDX. Atomic percentages (At%), differences (ΔAt%) and calcium/phosphorous-ratios (Ca/P-ratios) were calculated and analyzed non-parametrically (α = 0.05). 2.0-2.3 At%Ce (median) was detected on Ce(NO3)3-treated enamel and 0.4-0.7 At% Sm (median) was detected on Sm(NO3)3-treated enamel. Ce was only detected on the surfaces after application of Ce(NO3)3, Sm only after application of Sm(NO3)3. The Ca/P-ratio was significantly lower (1.37-1.59; p = 0.028) after the application of 25% and 50%Ce(NO3)3 as well as 50%Sm(NO3)3 compared to the control treatment (demineralized water; 1.61-1.63). After treatment with Ce(NO3)3, At%Ca and At%Na were significantly lower (p ≤ 0.043) compared to treatment with Sm(NO3)3. No significant differences were found between specimens treated with 25% or 50% lanthanide nitrate solution. Presence of a salivary pellicle had no significant influence on the measured At% with the exception of specimens treated with 50% Sm(NO3)3 with increased At%Sm (p ≤ 0.046). Ce(NO3)3 and Sm(NO3)3 precipitate on human enamel independently of the presence of a salivary pellicle.

Development of a new heterogeneous catalyst based on triple superphosphate for the one-pot multicomponent synthesis via green strategy, accompanied by a critical assessment of environmental sustainability metrics applied to the synthesis of 2,4,5-tri and 1,2,4,5-tetra substituted imidazole heterocycle derivatives

A new catalyst, cerium phosphate (Ce(NO3)3/TSP), has been developed through a straightforward co-precipitation method. This catalyst was thoroughly characterized using techniques such as X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). The research focused on the application of Ce(NO3)3/TSP in the of 2,4,5-tri and 1,2,4,5-tetra substituted imidazole reaction with ammonium acetate, amine derivatives, benzil, and various aldehydes. The catalyst demonstrated outstanding performance, achieving product yields of 90-97% in just 8-10 minutes in an ethanol medium. The heterogeneity of the reaction was confirmed by a hot filtration test. This catalyst offers significant benefits, including easy recovery, reusability for at least five cycles, a simple work-up procedure, and high product yields. An evaluation of sustainability using green metrics such as the E-factor, atom economy (AE), reaction mass efficiency (RME), carbon efficiency (CE), and optimum efficiency (OE) indicated that this catalyst greatly enhances the environmental sustainability of the 2,4,5-tri and 1,2,4,5-tetra substituted imidazole reaction.

How Do Local Governments Interpret International Norms on Sustainable Development in Circular Economy Practices?

As a program that can support a healthy economy, CE has an essential role in changing the face of cities. CE is considered to have a close relationship with the SDGs, SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production. The application of CE in different cities also allows the emergence of various policy models, each of which seeks to answer the city's unique challenges. This research seeks to map the state-of-the-art of CE, SDG 12, and cities. The research method used for the mapping is a systematic literature review using Mendeley's website as a database. This research finds that CE and SDGs are correlated through the norms of sustainable development but that the relationship between CE and sustainable development is itself a tool-and-target relationship. In addition, through best practices from 6 cities that have implemented CE, three types of determinants can be identified that can drive the transition to CE, multi-actor symbiosis, restoration and preservation of public spaces, and internalization of CE cultural values. Makassar City has much potential through Sustainable Development-based policies such as "Five Star TPA" and "Lorong Garden".

Application of Ce modified zeolite to improve the performance of cresol isomerization

This study clarifies the mechanism behind the isomerization of cresol, focusing on a shaped cerium-modified Beta zeolite. The catalysts were characterized using a series of characterization techniques, including XRD, Py-IR, XPS, and TGA. The results emphasize the pivotal role of cerium, particularly at a 5 % modification concentration, in improving catalyst acidity. The mechanism of isomerization is revealed through kinetic calculation of reversible monomolecular systems, emphasizing the significance of acid sites. TGA analysis of catalyst deactivation reveals distinctive carbon deposition patterns, with the cerium-modified zeolite displaying enhanced resistance to pore blockage through Type II carbon deposition. XPS analysis post-deactivation indicates an increased proportion of Ce3+, suggesting elevated oxygen vacancies and unsaturated chemical bonds, influencing the catalytic activity negatively. In summary, an appropriate cerium modification, especially at the 5 % concentration, strikes a balance between enhanced acidity and resistance to carbon deposition, providing valuable insights for tailoring zeolite catalysts in cresol isomerization.

Curcuma aromatica rhizomes ethanol extract: A potential therapeutic agent against HepG2 Hepatoma cells

Curcuma aromatica, a Vietnamese medicinal plant, exhibits diverse therapeutic applications including blood loss, blood stasis, bloody urination, bloody vomiting, irregular menstruation, epilepsy, and cancer treatment. C. aromatica rhizomes ethanol extract and curcumol content have been shown strong inhibition of cancer growth. HepG2 cells were exposed to different doses of ethanol extract and curcumol extract. The degree of cell growth inhibition was determined using the WST-1 assay, and Hoechst 33258 spectrofluorometric assay, while the rate of cell death by apoptosis was assessed using the annexin-propidium iodide double-staining assay. Flow cytometry was employed to study the cell cycle, while the transwell assay was used to assess cell migration and invasion. The expression of bax and bcl-2 genes was analyzed using real-time reverse transcription-PCR. C. aromatica rhizomes ethanol extract (CE) consisted of a total phenolic content value of 15.02±0.18 (mg/g extract) and a curcumol level of 849.8 ± 23.73 (?g/g extract). The growth of HepG2 cells was suppressed in a dose-dependent manner by C. aromatica rhizomes ethanol extract. Following a 72-hour exposure to an (CE) concentration of 100 ?g/mL, the inhibition rate was measured to be 34.559 ± 0.456 %, the IC50 value was determined to be 44.79 ?g/mL and the inhibition of curcumol was 50.961± 0.641 %, and the IC50=93.48. The application of CE induced late apoptosis in HepG2 cells. The CE also induced programmed cell death (apoptosis) in HepG2 cancer cells, effectively suppressing their growth, movement, and invasion by controlling the synthesis of Bcl-2 mRNA. This work gives novel insights into the antihepatoma action of (CE) and establishes a foundation for the development of preliminary anticancer medications.

Mitigative Effect of Rare Earth Element Cerium on the Growth of Zinc-stressed Wheat （Triticum aestivum L.）Seedlings

This research aimed to clarify the mitigative effect of exogenously applied rare earth element cerium （Ce） on the growth， zinc （Zn） accumulation， and physiological characteristics of wheat （Triticum aestivum L.） seedlings under Zn stress. The wheat variety studied was Bainong307 （BN307）， and Zn stress was achieved by growing seedlings in a hydroponic culture experiment with 500 μmol·L-1 Zn2 + added to the culture solution. It was found that Zn stress at 500 μmol·L-1 significantly inhibited the chlorophyll content， photosynthesis， and biomass accumulation of wheat seedlings. Seedling roots became shorter and thicker， and the lateral roots decreased under Zn stress. The Zn stress also increased MDA accumulation and the degree of cell membrane lipid peroxidation and reduced soluble protein contents and the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase （SOD）， catalase （CAT）， and ascorbate peroxidase （APX）. On the contrary， exogenous Ce decreased the adsorption and transport of Zn by the root system and alleviated the damage of Zn stress to wheat seedlings. Specifically， the increase in chlorophyll content （chlorophyll a， chlorophyll b， and total chlorophyll） and photosynthetic parameters， the enhancement of antioxidant enzymes activities and soluble protein levels， and the reduction in MDA content and the damage of lipid peroxidation to the cell membrane were all driven by exogenous Ce， which ultimately led to the increase in dry matter biomass of the root system and shoot. In summary， these results provide basic data for the application of exogenous Ce to alleviate Zn toxicity to plants.

Potential application of Ce doped NiO green synthesised from husk of Cocos nucifera in various types of DSSCs

ABSTRACT In this study, a complete green synthesis procedure was approached to prepare two semiconductor oxide materials NiO and Ce-doped NiO in nanoscale, and natural dyes were extracted from the husk of tender coconut. To our knowledge, this is a novel work that reports Ce-doped NiO synthesized from husk of tender coconut. Coconut is being cultivated in more than 97 countries, and India contributes to 50% of its global production. After consumption of the nutritious liquid from the tender coconut, 33–35% of the fruit (mesocarp and endocarp) are being dumped as agro-wastes. In order to make capital of this wastes, they were utilized in fabricating different types of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). With the extracted natural dyes, and Rhodamine B, six DSSCs were made with NiO and Ce:NiO and two tandem structured DSSCs were devised with TiO2 as one layer and synthesized NiO materials being the other layer. Tandem cell made with TiO2 and Ce:NiO resulted in the promising power-conversion efficiency of 0.165% and the cell made with TiO2 and NiO exhibited an efficiency of 0.06%.

Barriers to Cement Industry Towards Circular Economy

Cement, as the main component of concrete, is a crucial industrial product for economic development and civilization. Nevertheless, its production is highly energy-intensive, environmentally polluting, and a source of extreme CO2 emissions. For success in the transition to the circular economy and accelerating sustainable manufacturing in the cement industry, understanding and addressing the main barriers are essential. Using the above point of view, this study intends to address the challenges and barriers of the cement industry in the transition to a circular economy, define the causal relationships between these barriers, and determine the necessary practical implications to overcome the barriers. Systematic literature review and focus group study results enable a holistic model that integrates research results and business practical criteria. The DEMATEL method is used for the clarification of causal relations between factors. A total of 18 barriers in 6 clusters have been revealed to be used for managerial implications to speed up the transition to CE applications in the cement business. Out of 18 barriers, 6 were effect groups, which were the outcomes due to the remaining 12 causing barriers. The top three cause factors are an unstable waste market, lack of management competencies, and unstable macroeconomic conditions, while the leading three effect factors are revealed as giving priority to other issues, insufficient organisational structures, and deviations in product quality. Although there are many studies on CE in cement, they are concentrated on technical and laboratory studies enabling the use of different alternative materials as inputs to the cement process. Studying and revealing the barriers holding back the cement sector in the transition to CE is this study’s core contribution, making it novel and unique.

Measuring the anthropogenic cycles of light rare earths in China: Implications for the imbalance problem

Light rare earth elements (LREEs) are of strategic importance for low carbon transition and decarbonization. However, the imbalance between LREEs exists and a systematic understanding of their flows and stocks is lacking, which impedes the attainment of resources efficiency and exacerbates the environmental burdens. This study examines the anthropogenic cycles and the imbalance problem of three representative LREEs in China, the largest LREEs producer in the world, including cerium (the most abundant), neodymium and praseodymium (the fastest demand-growing). We find that 1) from 2011 to 2020, the total consumption of Nd and Pr increased by 228 % and 223 %, respectively, mainly attributed to the increasing demand of NdFeB, whereas that of Ce increased by 157 %; 2) the supply insufficiency of Nd and Pr under the current quota system accumulated to 138,086 tons and 35,549 tons, respectively, while the oversupply of Ce reached 63,523 tons; and 3) China has become a net importer of LREEs concentrates, and a net exporter of LREEs in the form of intermediate and final products, imposing further burdens to the domestic environment. It is clear that the imbalance of LREEs occurred during the study period, raising urgent needs to adjust the LREEs production quotas, seek other Ce applications, and eliminate illegal mining.

Application of Biodegradable Magnesium Membrane Shield Technique for Immediate Dentoalveolar Bone Regeneration.

For the first time, the clinical application of the first CE registered magnesium membrane is reported. Due to the material characteristics of magnesium metal, new treatment methodologies become possible. This has led to the development of a new technique: the magnesium membrane shield technique, used to rebuild the buccal or palatal walls of compromised extraction sockets. Four clinical cases are reported, demonstrating the handling options of this new technique for providing a successful regenerative outcome. Using the technique, immediate implant placement is possible with a provisional implant in the aesthetic zone. It can also be used for rebuilding both the buccal and palatal walls simultaneously. For instances where additional mechanical support is required, the membrane can be bent into a double layer, which additionally provides a rounder edge for interfacing with the soft tissue. In all reported clinical cases, there was a good bone tissue regeneration and soft tissue healing. In some instances, the new bone had formed a thick cortical bone visible in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) radiographs of the regenerated sites, which is known to be remodeled in the post treatment period. Overall, the magnesium membrane shield technique is presented as an alternative treatment option for compromised extraction sockets.

Experimental study on consolidation characteristics of deep clayey soil in a typical subsidence area of the North China Plain

Land subsidence is an important environmental problem in the North China Plain (NCP). A typical subsidence area mainly located on adjoining areas of Beijing and Hebei provinces was selected to study the consolidation characteristics of deep clayey soil. Clay samples were collected from 14 boreholes at different depths, and the compression and consolidation behavior of the soil was analyzed by high-pressure oedometer tests. Results show that the deformation amount and deformation stabilization time in the primary consolidation stage increase with the load but decrease with the sampling depth. The nonlinear compression model of e-log(p) does not fit well for deep normally-consolidated clayey soil, the log(e+ec)–logp model fit the shallow clayey soil better than the deep clayey soil, and the hyperbolic model fits almost all soil samples well. Based on statistical theory, the soil consolidation equation CE_NCP was established for calculating the relationship between the degree of consolidation and the time factor in subsidence areas. The equations were fitted with the data obtained from high-pressure consolidation tests to obtain three parameters a, b and c, which are applied to the consolidation calculations for soil samples at depths of 0–100 m, 100–200 m, 200–300 m and 300–400 m, respectively. The applicability of CE_NCP equation was evaluated by comparing it to the analytical solution of Terzaghi’s consolidation equation, results showing that CE_NCP equation is more suitable for the calculation of the consolidation in the study area than the Terzaghi’s analytical solution. Eventually, the CE_NCP equation was successfully used to estimate the degree of consolidation in a subsidence area of Lang Fang City in the NCP.

Graphite/Carbon Black Counter Electrode Deposition Methods to Improve the Efficiency and Stability of Hole-Transport-Layer-Free Perovskite Solar Cells.

The interfacial compatibility between the graphite/carbon black composite counter electrode (Gr/CB CE) and the perovskite layer is a crucial determinant of the performance of the hole-transport-layer-free carbon-based perovskite solar cells, and judicious selection of the Gr/CB CE application method is essential for achieving an optimum contact. In this work, three different types of Gr/CB CEs application methods are investigated: (1) deposition of Gr/CB on the fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrate, followed by clamping to the perovskite layer, (2) direct deposition of Gr/CB onto the perovskite layer, and (3) deposition of Gr/CB onto the PbI2 precursor layer, followed by immersion in methylammonium iodide solution for the in situ conversion of PbI2 to perovskite. The results revealed that Method 3 produced superior Gr/CB–perovskite contacts, resulting in up to 8.81% power conversion efficiency. The devices prepared using Method 3 also exhibited the best stability in the air, retaining 71.1% of their original efficiency after 1600 h of continuous testing. These results demonstrate that Gr/CB CEs can be considered excellent alternatives to the costly noble metals often employed in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) when deposited using a suitable technique.

Application of ZIF-67 based nitrogen-rich carbon frame with embedded Cu and Co bimetallic particles in QDSSCs

The catalytic enhancement of counter electrode materials is of an essential move for the overall evolution of QDSSCs. While the commonly used Cu2S/Cu counter electrode is easy to be eroded off by sulfur electrolyte, resulting in photoanode pollution. Herein, rough polyhedron Cu/Co@NCF composite is smoothly prepared via hydrothermal and synchronous doping method to replace Cu2S/Cu application. With the ZIF-67 as carbon source and morphology support, Cu and Co nanoparticles (NPs) are uniformly embedded in the carbon polyhedron without agglomeration, while the doping of nitrogen makes the composites have better porous structure. Combining the superior catalytic from Cu and Co particles with the electrical conductivity and stability from the carbon frame, the Cu/Co@NCF composite as QDSSCs counter electrode achieves an excellent photoelectric conversion effect (6.66%), close to that of Cu2S/Cu (7.29%). With stable and excellent counter electrode performance, Cu/Co@NCF composite unquestionably has the potential to be an alternative material for the CE application of QDSSCs.

Development and applications of Ru and Ce based iron oxides as photocatalysts

This paper describes cerium and ruthenium oxides as catalysts in photo-degradation of Congo Red. Results show an alteration in the chemical properties and crystal structure as Ru or Ce are incorporated into the system. Ruthenium materials, are a mixture of carbonous iron oxides, Ru2O and Ru0 clusters and cerium catalysts are a distorted spinel ferrite. Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy reveals direct bandgaps of 2.03 and 2.46 eV for Ru and Ce materials respectively. The photo-oxidation of Congo red followed first-order kinetics (k = 3.3 × 10−3 mol·min−1) in the presence of Ru catalysts whereas cerium materials performed poorly (k = 0.7 × 10−3 mol·min−1). A DFT structural optimization was attempted for ruthenium catalysts involving a mixture of Fe(CH3COO)2, Ru2O and Ru07 but for Ce materials, an inverse spinel with CeFe2O4 composition is presented.

Sixteen capillary electrophoresis applications for viral vaccine analysis.

A broad range of CE applications from our organization is reviewed to give a flavor of the use of CE within the field of vaccine analyses. Applicability of CE for viral vaccine characterization, and release and stability testing of seasonal influenza virosomal vaccines, universal subunit influenza vaccines, Sabin inactivated polio vaccines (sIPV), and adenovirus vector vaccines were demonstrated. Diverse CZE, CE-SDS, CGE, and cIEF methods were developed, validated, and applied for virus, protein, posttranslational modifications, DNA, and excipient concentration determinations, as well as for the integrity and composition verifications, and identity testing (e.g., CZE for intact virus particles, CE-SDS application for hemagglutinin quantification and influenza strain identification, chloride or bromide determination in process samples). Results were supported by other methods such as RP-HPLC, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential measurements. Overall, 16 CE methods are presented that were developed and applied, comprising six adenovirus methods, five viral protein methods, and methods for antibodies determination of glycans, host cell-DNA, excipient chloride, and process impurity bromide. These methods were applied to support in-process control, release, stability, process- and product characterization and development, and critical reagent testing. Thirteen methods were validated. Intact virus particles were analyzed at concentrations as low as 0.8pmol/L. Overall, CE took viral vaccine testing beyond what was previously possible, improved process and product understanding, and, in total, safety, efficacy, and quality.

Capillary electromigration methods for food analysis and Foodomics: Advances and applications in the period February 2019-February 2021.

This work presents a revision of the main applications of capillary electromigration methods in food analysis and Foodomics. Articles that were published during the period February 2019-February 2021 are included. The work shows the multiple CE methods that have been developed and applied to analyze different types of molecules in foods. Namely, CE methods have been applied to analyze amino acids, biogenic amines, carbohydrates, chiral compounds, contaminants, DNAs, food additives, heterocyclic amines, lipids, secondary metabolites, peptides, pesticides, phenols, pigments, polyphenols, proteins, residues, toxins, vitamins, small organic and inorganic compounds, as well as other minor compounds. The last results on the use of CE for monitoring food interactions and food processing, including recent microchips developments and new applications of CE in Foodomics, are discussed too. The new procedures of CE to investigate food quality and safety, nutritional value, storage and bioactivity are also included in the present review work.

Coeloglossum viride var. bracteatum extract attenuates staurosporine induced neurotoxicity by restoring the FGF2-PI3K/Akt signaling axis and Dnmt3

We previously demonstrated the antioxidant activity of Coeloglossum viride var. bracteatum extract (CE) in rat cortical neurons and in mice with chemically induced cognitive impairment. In this work, we established a staurosporine (STS)-induced toxicity model to decipher the neuroprotective mechanisms of CE. We found that CE protected cell viability and neurite integrity in STS-induced toxicity by restoring the levels of FGF2 and its associated PI3K/Akt signaling axis. LY294002, a pan-inhibitor of PI3K, antagonized the activity of CE, although its-mediated restoration of FGF2 was unaffected. In addition, CE restored levels of Bcl-2/Caspase-3, PKCα/CaM pathway, and Dnmt3a and Dnmt3b, two methyltransferases that contribute to de novo DNA methylation. The Dnmts inhibitor 5-azacytidine impaired CE-mediated restoration of Dnmt3 or CaM, as well as the transition of DNA methylation status on the Dnmt3 promoter. These results reveal potential mechanisms that could facilitate the study and application of CE as a neuroprotective agent.

Comparison of (Pr, Nd)H grain boundary restructuring and diffusion on the magnetic properties of Nd–La–Ce–Fe–B sintered magnet

Exploiting high-performance 2:14:1-type permanent magnet at high La–Ce substitution level remains a bottleneck concern due to the severe magnetic dilution from inferior intrinsic magnetism and microstructural deterioration. In present work, to promote the La–Ce application, (Pr, Nd)Hx is introduced into LaCe-40 sintered magnet (La–Ce/TRE = 40 wt%, TRE: total rare earth) through two approaches, grain boundary restructuring (GBR) and grain boundary diffusion process (GBDP). Results show that (Pr, Nd)Hx GBR leads to a twofold coercivity by optimizing the distribution of GB phase and forming a Pr/Nd-rich magnetically hardening shell. However, the remanence is lowered drastically due to massive formation of REFe2 phase during high-temperature sintering. Comparably, (Pr, Nd)Hx GBDP magnet with an identical average composition to GBR one yields a nearly threefold coercivity without sacrificing the remanence, ascribing to the formation of more continuous RE-rich GB layer and thicker Pr/Nd-rich shell near the surface region. Above comparative study highlights the crucial role of surface magnetic isolation in enhancing the coercivity of Nd–La–Ce–Fe–B sintered magnet, and delights the prospect of abundant La–Ce for industrial application.