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Alumina-supported CoMo catalysts have been widely used for hydrodesulfurization of various kinds of feeds. In the current research, γ-Al2O3 was synthesized through the simultaneous formation of boehmite and ammonium aluminum carbonate hydroxide (AACH) precursors under controlled pH and temperature conditions. After optimization of the textural properties, γ-Al2O3 was utilized as catalyst support for the immobilization of catalytically active species and obtaining CoMo/γ-Al2O3-n (concentration of Al(NO3)3.9H2O solutions (n) = 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 g/L) catalysts via wet impregnation technique. Moreover, this preparation method was applied for the successful large-scale synthesis of CoMo/γ-Al2O3-n. The catalyst was characterized by FT-IR, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis, inductively-coupled plasma (ICP), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET). The conversion of thiophene over CoMo/γ-Al2O3 was studied to assess the catalytic performance. The catalytic activity and stability of our reported catalyst were comparable with that of KATALCOJM 41-6 T commercial catalyst.Highlights Mixture of boehmite and AACH precursors was synthesized by co-precipitation methodThe precursors were thermally decomposed to extruded γ-Al2O3 as catalyst supportThe properties of γ-Al2O3 were tuned by various concentrations of Al solutionCoMo/γ-Al2O3 was prepared by the impregnation of γ-Al2O3 in the Co and Mo solutionsCoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalyst was sulfided and used for hydrodesulfurization of thiopheneMixture of boehmite and AACH precursors was synthesized by co-precipitation methodThe precursors were thermally decomposed to extruded γ-Al2O3 as catalyst supportThe properties of γ-Al2O3 were tuned by various concentrations of Al solutionCoMo/γ-Al2O3 was prepared by the impregnation of γ-Al2O3 in the Co and Mo solutionsCoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalyst was sulfided and used for hydrodesulfurization of thiophene [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aluminum-water reaction offers a promising method for clean hydrogen production, but it requires an effective catalyst. This study investigates the use of aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH) 3) as a catalyst for the aluminum-water reaction to generate hydrogen gas. Various aluminum hydroxide catalysts were synthesized and evaluated for their catalytic performance. The effects of catalyst source, synthesis conditions, quantity, and pH value of the reacting solution were systematically studied. The results demonstrate that self-synthesized, nano-sized Al(OH) 3 catalysts exhibit superior catalytic activity compared to commercial sources. Additionally, optimizing the pH value was found to significantly impact the hydrogen generation rate. Proper synthesized Al(OH) 3 is capable of completing hydrogen generation within 160 s at pH 11.6, while slightly higher pH value accelerates this reaction down to 60 s. Comparative studies with uncatalyzed reactions at higher pH levels (up to 14) showed significantly slower and incomplete hydrogen production. This research provides insights into developing efficient and sustainable catalytic systems for aluminum-water based hydrogen production. • Optimization of aluminum hydroxide for the hydrogen production from aluminum-water reaction. • Proper synthesized Al(OH) 3 is capable of completing hydrogen generation within 160 s at pH 11.6. • Uncatalyzed reactions at higher pH levels (up to 14) showed significantly slower and incomplete hydrogen production. • The knowledge can realize the production of green hydrogen from the reaction of aluminum scraps and water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the adsorption behaviors of lanthanum (III) and yttrium (III) ions on gibbsite, focusing on the interaction between aluminum hydroxide minerals and rare-earth elements in bauxite. The experiments were designed to mimic real geological conditions, using high rare-earth concentrations, solid-to-liquid ratios, and background electrolyte concentrations. The authors respond to criticisms regarding experimental methods and results, emphasizing the relevance of their findings to natural systems. The study provides valuable insights into the enrichment mechanisms of rare-earth elements in bauxite, contributing to the fields of ore deposit geochemistry, mineral processing, and environmental protection. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Adjuvants use several mechanisms to boost immunogenicity and to modulate immune response. The strength of adsorption of antigen by adjuvants can be a determinant factor for significant improvement of immunopotentiation. Methods: We expressed recombinant RBD‐FC in PichiaPink Strain 4 and examined the vaccination of mice by vaccine formulation with different adjuvants (sodium alginate and aluminum hydroxide, alone and together). Results: Sodium alginate significantly increased the immunogenicity and stability of RBD‐FC antigen, so RBD‐FC formulated with combined alginate and alum (AlSa) and sodium alginate alone showed higher antibody titer and stability. Immunogenicity of RBD‐FC:AlSa was determined by serological assays including direct enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT). High levels of IgGs and neutralizing antibodies were measured in serum of mice immunized with the RBD‐FC:AlSa formulation. On the other hand, cytokines IL‐10 and INF‐γ were severely accumulated in response to RBD‐FC:AlSa, and after 10 days, their accumulation was significantly declined, whereas IL‐4 showed the highest and the lowest accumulation in response to alum and alginate, respectively. Conclusions: Our data may suggest that combination of alum and sodium alginate has a better compatibility with RBD‐FC in vaccine formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The simple design, compactness, simultaneous treatment of multiple contaminants, absence of chemical usage, minimal sludge formation (reducing secondary pollution), low maintenance cost, and versatility to operate in both batch and continuous modes make electrocoagulation (EC) a promising choice for treating various types of industrial wastewater. In this study, EC was employed in batch mode to treat produced water obtained from an oil drilling site, to reuse it for injection purposes in the reservoir. Produced water typically contains high levels of total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), and oil & grease (O&G) contaminants. High-performing aluminum (Al) electrodes were chosen due to their stability, conductivity, and, most significantly, their high capacity for generating aluminum hydroxide ([Al(OH)₃]ₙ) flocs, which serve as carriers for contaminant capture. This compound has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in trapping the aforementioned contaminants from produced water under various operating conditions, including the number of electrodes, supplied current, and electrode configuration (bipolar and monopolar). The impact of several factors, including the number of electrodes (varying from 4 to 8), current density (varying as 16, 79, 158 A/m2), and electrode configuration (bipolar and monopolar), was studied at room temperature and 250 rpm agitation speed. Initial turbidity, COD, BOD, and O&G concentrations were measured at 38 NTU, 700.7 ppm, 120 ppm, and 32.8 ppm, respectively. The EC treatment exhibited removal efficiencies of 51% for TDS, 85% for turbidity, 78% for COD, 80% for BOD, and 85% for O&G using a monopolar configuration with 8 electrodes, and 59% for TDS, 90% for turbidity, 85% for COD, 84% for BOD, and 86% for O&G using a bipolar configuration with eight electrodes. Additionally, cost estimation, considering electrode dissolution rate and power requirements, was conducted for the operation of both configurations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The main characteristic of asthma is chronic inflammation. We examined cellular senescence by histology and molecular assay in the lungs of a rat model of asthma. This model comprises sensitization by several intraperitoneal injections of ovalbumin with aluminium hydroxide, followed by aerosol challenges every other day. Results: Data showed that asthma induction caused histological changes including, hyperemia, interstitial pneumonia, fibrinogen clots, and accumulation of inflammatory cells in the pleura. There is an elevation of IL-1β and NF-kB proteins in the asthmatic group (P < 0.001) compared to the control group. The expression of ß-galactosidase increased (P < 0.01), while the expression of Klotho and Sox2 genes was decreased in the lung tissue of the asthmatic group (P < 0.01). Conclusion: Taken together, these findings suggest that asthmatic conditions accelerated the cellular senescence in the lung tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractA hybrid material composed of aluminum hydroxide oxide (AlOOH) and titanium carbide (Ti3C2) nanosheets was synthesized and used for electrochemical sensing of quercetin. The Ti3C2 nanosheets were synthesized using a selective etching technique, followed by the hydrothermal growth of AlOOH on the nanosheet surfaces. Cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry were performed to evaluate the electrochemical properties of the AlOOH@Ti3C2 nanocomposites. Under optimal conditions, the AlOOH@Ti3C2 modified electrode exhibited wide linearity and high sensitivity. The practicality of the sensor was verified through an interference study and real sample analysis. Additionally, the sensing platform exhibited outstanding operational and storage stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes substantial respiratory disease. Bivalent RSV prefusion F (RSVpreF) vaccine is licensed in ≥60-year-olds. RSVpreF was well tolerated and immunogenic in a phase 1/2 study. We evaluated antibody persistence after initial vaccination and safety and immunogenicity after revaccination from this study. Methods Healthy adults were randomized to receive initial vaccination and revaccination 12 months later with either placebo or RSVpreF (240 µg with or without aluminum hydroxide). RSV-A and RSV-B geometric mean neutralizing titers (GMTs) were measured through 12 months after both vaccinations. Tolerability and safety were assessed. Results There were 263 participants revaccinated (18–49 years old, n = 134; 65–85 years old, n = 129). Among 18- to 49-year-olds and 65- to 85-year-olds, geometric mean fold rises (GMFRs) for both RSV subgroups (RSV-A, RSV-B) 1 month after initial RSVpreF vaccination were 13.3 to 20.4 and 8.9 to 15.5, respectively, as compared with levels before initial vaccination; corresponding GMFRs 12 months after initial vaccination were 4.1 to 5.0 and 2.6 to 4.1. GMFRs 1 month after revaccination vs levels before revaccination were 1.4 to 2.3 and 1.4 to 2.2 for 18- to 49-year-olds and 65- to 85-year-olds. Peak GMTs after revaccination were lower than those after initial vaccination. GMTs 12 months after initial vaccination and revaccination were similar, with GMFRs ranging from 0.7 to 1.6. No safety signals occurred. Conclusions RSVpreF revaccination was immunogenic and well tolerated among adults. Clinical Trials Registration. NCT03529773 (ClinicalTrials.gov). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To describe serum fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) concentrations in young adult cats with remnant kidney model--induced chronic kidney disease (CKD) and to evaluate the effects of orally administered aluminum hydroxide (ALOH) on serum phosphate and FGF-23 concentrations in these cats. ANIMALS 17 adult, purpose-bred cats with induced CKD and 13 healthy, age-matched cats. METHODS A prospective, randomized study. Cats with induced CKD fed a wet renal diet received treatment with ALOH (90 mg/kg/d, PO) on days 0 to 42 and no treatment on days 43 to 84 (treatment group, n = 9) or no treatment on days 0 to 84 (control group, n = 8). Standard serum and urine biochemical analyses and several parameters reflective of calcium-phosphate balance, including serum parathyroid hormone and FGF-23 concentrations, were evaluated at baseline and various time points, including days 42 and 84. Age-matched, healthy, community-owned cats underwent similar evaluations at a single time point. Baseline data from CKD cats were compared to those of healthy cats. Longitudinal data from CKD cats were compared over time. RESULTS Serum phosphate, total and ionized calcium, and FGF-23 concentrations were significantly higher in CKD cats at baseline relative to healthy cats (all P ≤ .009). Serum phosphate concentration did not change significantly over time in either CKD group; however, FGF-23 concentrations significantly increased over time in the control group (P < .02) but not the treatment group (P = .059). CLINICAL RELEVANCE Aluminum hydroxide did not reduce serum phosphate or FGF-23 concentrations in this small study of cats with induced CKD chronically eating a phosphate-restricted diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated a binary blend of calcium sulfoaluminate cement and fly ash with a target compressive strength of more than 32.5 MPa based on the EN 197-1 standard, using as much fly ash as possible. In the binder system of calcium sulfoaluminate cement and fly ash, a decrease in the replacement level of fly ash results in an increase in compressive strength. Mortar with a 40% replacement level of fly ash for calcium sulfoaluminate cement and added gypsum shows 49.41 MPa strength at 28 d. Its hydrates are hydroxy-AFm, ettringite, crystalline aluminum hydroxide, amorphous aluminum hydroxide, strätlingite, and monosulfate. They are attributed to the hydration of ye'elimite, C2S, and C3A in calcium sulfoaluminate cement. The reactivity of fly ash is not observed until 28 d of hydration. The formation of ettringite is the main cause of the gains in compressive strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pigeon paramyxovirus type 1 (PPMV-1) is a serious pathogen facing the pigeon industry. Thus, this study aimed to preparation and evaluation of two inactivated vaccines using Carbopol and Aluminum hydroxide-based adjuvants to control such a problem. A total of 45-four weeks old, apparently healthy pigeons were allocated into 3 groups (15 birds each) as follow: group 1 (G1) received 0.5 ml, S/C Carbopol adjuvanted vaccine, group 2 (G2), received 0.5 ml S/C of aluminum hydroxide-based vaccine, group 3 (G3) received 0.5 ml S/C sterile saline and kept as control group. Five serum samples were obtained from each bird weekly post vaccination to measure anti-PPMV-1 antibodies using HI test. At 35 days post immunization, all vaccinated pigeons were challenged with 20µl containing 106 EID50/bird of PPMV-1 YA/14 strain by eye drop route, all pigeons were kept under observation for 10 days during the observation period any clinical signs or moralities were recorded also, cloacal swabs were collected 4-, 7- and 10-days post challenge to measure the shedding level. The potency test revealed that the prepared inactivated vaccine (PPMV-1) with synthetic polymeric adjuvants were potent and efficient. By studying the elicited serum antibody dynamics in vaccinated pigeon using HI test showed that antibody, the beak antibody titer reached by the 4th week post immunization (6 and 5 log 2) for both G1 and G2 respectively (but G1 is significantly increase than G2) and continued to the 5th week where it reaches 6.5 and 5.6 log2 for both groups in order. (G1 is significantly increase than G2), which indicated that the PPMV-1 inactivated vaccine in both G1 and G2, results in systemic adjuvant activity, including a long-lasting protective immune response after a single dose administration without any adverse reaction. G1 and G2 showed the lowest shedding level that was zero at the 10th day post challenge and the overall reduction level of both vaccinated groups was 4.9 and 4.5 for both G1 and G2, respectively. However, the prepared inactivated PPMV-1 Carbopol based vaccine is safe and could significantly poses the immune response more effectively than the aluminum hydroxide-based vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flotation of the mineral lithium aluminate by application of the natural product punicine from Punica granatum and some derivatives as collectors is examined. Punicines, 1‐(2',5'‐dihydroxyphenyl)‐pyridinium compounds, are switchable molecules whose properties can be changed reversibly. They exist as cations, neutral mesomeric betaines, anions, and dianions depending on the pH. In light, they form radicals. Five punicine derivatives were prepared which possess β‐methyl, β‐chlorine, γ‐tert.‐butyl, and γ‐acetyl groups attached to the pyridinium ring, and a pyrogallol derivative. On the other hand, LiAlO2 reacts with water to give species such as LiAl2(OH)7 on its surface. Flotations were performed applying the punicines in daylight (3000 lux), in darkness (<40 lux) and under UV‐irradiation (4500 lux, 390–400 nm). The pH of the suspension, the collector's concentration, the conditioning time as well as the flotation time were varied. The recovery rates strongly depend on these parameters. For example, the recovery rate of lithium aluminate was increased by 116 % on changing the lighting condition from daylight to darkness, when the pyrogallol derivative of punicine was applied. UV, FTIR, TGA and zeta potential measurements as well as DFT calculations were performed in order to gain insight into the chemistry of punicines on the surface of LiAlO2 and LiAl2(OH)7 in water which influence the flotation's results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrated nickel hydroxides with partial aluminum substitution were synthesized using the conventional coprecipitation and soft chemistry methods. The soft chemistry derived sample showed better reversibility owing to the low activity for oxygen evolution during charging. Operando X-ray diffraction indicated the increased interlayer distance and decreased crystallinity during discharging caused by water accommodation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Hydrogel microneedle patches have emerged as promising platforms for painless, minimally invasive, safe, and portable transdermal drug administration. However, the conventional mold-based fabrication processes and inherent single-functionality of such microneedles present significant hurdles to broader implementation. Herein, we have developed a novel approach utilizing a precursor solution of robust nanocomposite hydrogels to formulate photo-printable inks suitable for the direct 3D printing of high-precision, triple-responsive hydrogel microneedle patches through digital light processing (DLP) technology. The ink formulation comprises four functionally diverse monomers including 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate, N -isopropylacrylamide, acrylic acid, and acrylamide, which were crosslinked by aluminum hydroxide nanoparticles (AH NPs) acting as both reinforcing agents and crosslinking centers. This results in the formation of a nanocomposite hydrogel characterized by exceptional mechanical strength, an essential attribute for the 3D printing of hydrogel microneeedle patches. Furthermore, this innovative 3D printing strategy facilitates facile customization of microneedle geometry and patch dimensions. As a proof-of-concept, we employed the fabricated hydrogel microneedles for transdermal delivery of bovine serum albumin (BSA). Importantly, these hydrogel microneedles displayed no cytotoxic effects and exhibited triple sensitivity to pH, temperature and glucose levels, thereby enabling more precise on-demand drug delivery. This study provides a universal method for the rapid fabrication of hydrogel microneedles with smart responsiveness for transdermal drug delivery applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum hydroxide polymorphs are of widespread importance yet their kinetics of nucleation and growth remain beyond the reach of current models. Here we attempt to unveil the reaction processes underlying the polymorphs formation at high chemical potential. We examine their formation in-situ from supersaturated alkaline sodium aluminate solutions using deuteration and time-resolved neutron pair distribution function analyses, which indicate the formation of individual Al(OD)3 layers as an intermediate particle phase. These layers ultimately stack to form gibbsite- or bayerite-like layered heterostructures. Ex-situ characterization of the recovered precipitates using 27Al magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Raman, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy, suggests the presence of additional intermediate states, an amorphous compound bearing both tetrahededrally- and penta-coordinated Al3+. These observations reveal the complex pathways to form Al(OD)3 monolayers via either transient pentacoordinate species or amorphous-to-ordered transitions. The subsequent crystallization of admixed gibbsite/bayerite is followed by an Al(OD)3 monolayer attachment process. Aluminum hydroxide polymorphs play a key role in industrial aluminum production, yet their nucleation and growth kinetics remain beyond the reach of current models. Here, the authors study polymorph formation in situ from supersaturated alkaline sodium aluminate solutions using time-resolved neutron pair distribution function and complementary spectroscopy analyses, which indicate the formation of individual Al(OD)3 layers as an intermediate particle phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review was performed to understand better the myriad presentations, various therapeutic options, response to therapy, and its clinical outcomes in hyperphosphatemic tumoral calcinosis (HTC). Full texts were selected according to strict inclusion criteria. All case reports of HTC wherein baseline phosphate was measured, treatment offered was mentioned, and information on follow-up and response to therapy that were available were included. A total of 43 of 188 eligible studies (N = 63 patients) met the inclusion criteria. A list of desired data was extracted and graded for methodological quality. A total of 63 individuals (Males = 33) were included from the 43 eligible case studies. The median age of the patients was 18 (IQR 8–32) years. The most frequently involved sites were the hip/gluteal region (34/63; 53.9%) followed by the elbow/forearm (26/63; 41.2%), and the shoulder (18/63; 28.5%). Three patients had conjunctival calcific deposits. The mean (SD) phosphate was 6.9 (1.1) mg/dL. Among the subjects, 36/63 (57.1%) underwent surgical excision with some form of medical therapy. Two patients underwent only surgical excision (2.1%). One patient was maintained on follow-up (1.6%) and 24/63 (38.1%) patients were treated with medical measures. The median (IQR) follow-up duration was 3 (1–9) years. Regression or reduction in lesion size was reported in 19/63 (30.2%) subjects; 20/63 (31.7%) showed progression, 24/63 (38.1%) had features of stable disease, and mortality was reported in 3 patients (4.7%). We report for the first time a detailed description of the clinical and therapeutic response of HTC. A combination of medical measures aimed at lowering serum phosphate appears to be the cornerstone of treatment, although clinical responses may vary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal spraying due to slight heating, minimizing thermal deformation and the absence of structural changes in the surface of the products allows to effectively form protective composite coatings of various compositions. One of the most promising is the coating with aluminum oxide, which is characterized by high hardness, heat resistance, chemical inertia and high thermal protection and electrical insulation properties. Among other thermal spraying methods, plasma spraying is the most versatile and effective. As a result of the combination of wire (wire brand ER5356) plasma spraying with simultaneous supply of powder material, a composite coating consisting of an aluminum matrix and particles of aluminum hydroxide was formed. It is shown that the microstructure of the coating has a characteristic lamellar structure with a porosity of about 15 %. The microhardness of the aluminum matrix is 0,32 GPa. The particles of aluminum hydroxide and its decomposition products are partially exposed in the preparation of cross-sections, which is explained by the formation of conglomerates and insufficient wetting of aluminum particles in the formation of the coating. It is established that during the spraying active release of water vapor due to the process of thermal dehydration of aluminum hydroxide is observed . Further formation of oxide ceramics in the coating structure is proposed by the heat treatment at 900 °C for 2 hours. Metallographic analysis of samples showed the formation of aluminum particles at the site of aluminum hydroxide (α and γ) with a microhardness of 5,2… 7,2 GPa. Significant decrease in the amount of metal light phase compared to the condition after spraying is noted, which is explained by the oxidation of aluminum by the products of decomposition of aluminum hydroxide in the process of heat treatment. The boundary of the "coating-substrate" separation is characterized by the presence of a diffusion zone with a depth of about 80 microns. X -ray analysis determined that the coating after heat treatment contains: 52,2 % of corundum (α-Al2O3), 4,5 % γ-Al2O3, 28,2 % aluminum, 13,7 % of iron, 1,5 % silicon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Industrial Minerals & Processing / Huagong Kuangwu yu Jiagong is the property of Industrial Minerals & Processing Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this work, the one‐pot synthesis of composites constituted by gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and aluminum hydroxide hydrogels (AlHG) by employing the Epoxide Route is presented. To modulate the optical properties of the final composites, different anions (X=Cl- ${{{\rm C}{\rm l}}^{-}}$ , Br- ${{{\rm B}{\rm r}}^{-}}$ , I- ${{{\rm I}}^{-}}$ and SCN- ${{{\rm S}{\rm C}{\rm N}}^{-}}$) were used as nucleophile, complexing and growth directing agents of the AuNPs. In addition, the concentration of the reactants, e. g., the X : Cl ratio, was set in such a way to preserve the alkalization rate, the transparency of the hydrogels supporting the AuNPs, and the stability of the final composites. Consequently, the composites exhibit different plasmonic properties, resulting from the AuNPs with different sizes and morphologies, as confirmed through transmission electron microscopy, depending on the nature of the employed anion, exclusively. Furthermore, this versatile one‐pot synthesis strategy was employed to design new composites with different I : Cl ratio and synthesize stable colloidal AuNPs within an aluminum hydroxide sol (AuNP@Alsol) without adding any conventional capping agent. This AuNP@Alsol composite can be used as seed to accelerate the extremely slow AuNPs formation kinetics in AuNP@AlHG(SCN), demonstrating the potential of this synthesis method to create composites susceptible to be applied in the photonic and catalysis areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poliovirus (PV) is on the brink of eradication due to global vaccination programs utilizing live-attenuated oral and inactivated polio vaccines. Recombinant PV virus-like particles (VLPs) are emerging as a safe next-generation vaccine candidate for the impending polio-free era. In this study, we investigate the production, antigenicity, thermostability, immunogenicity, and structures of VLPs derived from PV serotype 2 (PV2) wildtype strain and thermally stabilized mutant (wtVLP and sVLP, respectively). Both PV2 wtVLP and sVLP are efficiently produced in Pichia pastoris yeast. The PV2 sVLP displays higher levels of D-antigen and significantly enhanced thermostability than the wtVLP. Unlike the wtVLP, the sVLP elicits neutralizing antibodies in mice at levels comparable to those induced by inactivated polio vaccine. The addition of an aluminum hydroxide adjuvant to sVLP results in faster induction and a higher magnitude of neutralizing antibodies. Furthermore, our cryo-EM structural study of both sVLP and wtVLP reveals a native conformation for the sVLP and a non-native expanded conformation for the wtVLP. Our work not only validates the yeast-produced PV2 sVLP as a promising vaccine candidate with high production potential but also sheds light on the structural mechanisms that underpin the assembly and immunogenicity of the PV2 sVLP. These findings may expedite the development of sVLP-based PV vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Silicone Material is the property of Silicone Material Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Canine parvovirus (CPV) infection is still common among dogs, leading to severe disease with high mortality. The potential of a local isolate of CPV as an effective vaccine to prevent the disease warrants investigation. This study aimed to determine the antibody response in mice against a Bali isolate of CPV propagated in the Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cell culture. The virus was purified using polyethylene glycol (PEG)-6000 and mixed with an Aluminum hydroxide adjuvant. Fifteen 7-week female mice were divided into three treatment groups: treatment group 1 (PEG-purified virus and Adjuvant), treatment group 2 (crude unpurified virus and adjuvant), and treatment group 3 (adjuvant without virus), with five replicates per group. The Bali isolate of CPV was successfully replicated in MDCK cells, achieving a titer of 210-211 hemagglutination (HA) units after eight serial passages through the cell culture. The virus was confirmed as CPV by immunocytochemistry test using a monoclonal antibody and hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test using chicken anti-CPV polyclonal antibody. Following the first immunization, the antibody endpoint titer in mice immunized with PEG-purified CPV (5.6) was significantly higher than those immunized with crude unpurified CPV (4.2) and adjuvant without CPV (1.4). Similarly, after the second immunization, the antibody endpoint titer in mice immunized with PEG-purified CPV (7.6) also remained significantly higher than those immunized with crude unpurified CPV (6.4) and adjuvant without CPV (0.8). Significant increases in antibody endpoint titer were observed after the second immunization in mice immunized with PEG-purified CPV and crude unpurified CPV, but not in those given adjuvant without CPV. The Bali isolate of CPV propagated in MDCK cell culture induced a robust antibody response in mice, suggesting it’s a potential as an alternative vaccine candidate for preventing CPV infection in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benefiting from high safety, low cost, and competitive energy density, aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) have emerged as very promising technology for grid energy storage. However, the lifetime of AZIBs is severely affected by uncontrolled zinc dendritic growth and undesirable side reaction. To address the problem, natural aluminum silicate hydroxide covered glass fibers separator (AlSi‐GF) is prepared herein using a simple spraying method. Aluminum silicate hydroxide is a complex oxide, where a large number of adsorption sites can adsorb Zn2+ and guide its deposition process. In particular, the Maxwell–Wagner polarization of aluminum silicate hydroxide under an applied electric field contributes to homogenizing the electric field distribution around the interface, thereby modulating zinc deposition and reducing the nucleation overpotential. Impressively, AlSi‐GF separator enables high‐performance zinc‐metal batteries. The symmetric battery with AlSi‐GF separator has a stable voltage polarization and an ultra‐long cycle life of 2280 h at a current density of 1 mA cm−2, and the Zn//V2O5 full cell based on AlSi‐GF separator can exhibit a high specific capacity of 123 mAh g−1 after 1500 cycles at 1 A g−1. This study provides new insights into the design of reliable and cost‐effective separators for metal anodes in energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A batch electrocoagulation (EC) process using aluminum electrodes was optimized for the removal of natural organic matter (NOM) and subsequent reduction in total trihalomethane (TTHM) formation potential from synthetic (SynW) and river water (RW) samples. Optimum operating conditions were found to be 45 min of electrolysis time, an initial NOM concentration of 10 mg/L , and an applied voltage of 15 V. Initial NOM concentrations tested were 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, and 50 mg/L and treatment efficiency increased with increasing initial concentration. The kinetic study demonstrated that NOM removal followed second-order kinetics. NOM removal resulted in the reduction of trihalomethanes (THMs) formation in treated water. THM concentrations were measured in untreated and EC-treated water. Bromodichloromethane had the highest removal (92.4%) compared to trichloromethane (89.5%) after 10 min. The TTHM concentration after a 10–30 min treatment was below the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) maximum contaminant level of 80 μg/L. After 60 min, the TTHM concentration in the RW samples was reduced by 77.5%, which was considerably less than the reduction in the SynW samples (89.7%) within 10 min. The lower THMFP removal from RW may be due to interference from natural or anthropogenic constituents. The total amount of sludge generated in experiments was compared with the estimate derived using Faraday's equation. A current efficiency of 1.4 was obtained, indicating super-faradaic behavior of the EC process at the optimum operating conditions. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize the generated sludge and entrapment of NOM in aluminum hydroxide [ Al(OH)3 ] flocs as the most likely removal mechanism. At optimum operating conditions, the energy consumption was 2.391 kWh/m2. Thus, EC is an effective method for reducing NOM and THMFP from RW samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bulk and surface properties of materials based on nickel and aluminum oxides and hydroxides, as such or after reduction processes, are reviewed and discussed critically. The actual and potential industrial applications of these materials, both in reducing conditions and in oxidizing conditions, are summarized. Mechanisms for reactant molecule activation are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A possibility of using aluminum hydroxide, a product of processing of the adsorbent that lost its sorption activity in purification of a polyethylene solution cyclohexane, was demonstrated in the synthesis of aluminum kaolin borate supports for hydrodesulfurization catalysis in oil refining. The influence of typical impurities V, Ti and Na in the composition of the spent adsorbent on the physicochemical and catalytic properties of supports and catalysts was determined. Alumina-kaolin-borate catalyst carriers with the Ti content of approx. 0.2% have been prepared by atomic layer deposition (ALD) of TiCl4 onto the granules. A positive effect of molecular layering with TiO2 has been revealed by temperature programmed reduction and oxidation in combination with hydrodesulphurization activity testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, rigid polyurethane foams (RPUF) were successfully modified using 30 wt.% aluminium hydroxides (ATH), 1.0 pphp silicone surfactant, and different concentrations of graphene, using a one-shot one-step foaming method. This study aims to improve the compressive strength, flame retardancy, and thermal properties of RPUF by creating a synergistic effect between ATH and graphene in fire-retardant RPUF hybrid composites. The effects of a fixed amount of ATH and silicone surfactant and various loadings of graphene on RPUF were investigated. The results show that 0.5 wt.% graphene loading confers the best compression performance on the hybrid composite. Their compressive strength value of 12.58 KPa was higher than virgin RPUF (4.07 KPa) and RPUF/ATH (9.89 KPa). FTIR confirmed the functional groups in the virgin RPUF but could not identify new functional groups in most modified composites. The smallest amount of graphene addition (0.5 wt.%) produced a more stable hybrid composite structure. At 3.0 wt.% graphene addition, the maximum decomposition temperature of the RPUF/ATH hybrid composite was recorded (539oC), which was enhanced by 50% compared to virgin RPUF (296oC), and the highest char residue of 17.46% was observed. The incorporation of graphene enhanced the thermal firmness of the hybrid composite. The study also revealed an enhancement in the fire resistance of the hybrid composite. The LOI and UL-94 results showed that incorporating 3.0 wt.% enables increased LOI value and V-0 classification compared to virgin samples. This hybrid composite can be used in high-performance building insulation applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the immunogenicity of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine by applying a normal and high-dose hepatitis B virus vaccination program in the mice modeling of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD was induced in mouse livers via diet. At the 10-week mark, both groups were divided into 3 subgroups. While the standard dose vaccination program was applied on days 0, 7, and 21, two high-dose programs were applied: one was applied on days 0 and 7, and the other was applied on days 0, 7, and 21. All mice were euthanized. Blood samples from anti-HB titers; T follicular helper, T follicular regulatory, CD27+, and CD38+ cells; and the liver, spleen, and thymus were taken for histopathologic evaluation. NAFLD subgroups receiving high doses showed higher hepatocyte ballooning scores than normal-dose subgroup. There were differences in CD27+ and CD27+CD38+ cells in animals fed on different diets, without any differences or interactions in terms of vaccine protocols. In the NAFLD group, a negative correlation was observed between anti-HB titers and T helper and CD27+ cells, while a positive correlation was observed with CD38+ cells. NAFLD induced changes in immune parameters in mice, but there was no difference in vaccine efficacy among the applied vaccine protocols. Based on this study's results, high-dose vaccination protocols are not recommended in cases of NAFLD, as they do not enhance efficacy and may lead to increased liver damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The collapse of the Fundão dam was responsible for generating numerous environmental impacts. The Gualaxo do Norte River basin was one of the areas most affected by the tragedy, where the deposition of iron ore waste caused a worsening of the erosion processes, especially during rainy periods when water erosion mechanisms intensify. This article aims to analyze the erodibility of tailings through a geotechnical approach that has been little explored in works on rupture, analyzing how physical, chemical and geomechanical properties relate to surface erosion processes. The results of the physical characterization confirmed the high susceptibility to erosion of the tailings, presenting high levels of silt (48%) and fine sand (32%), in addition to a high specific weight of particles (29.5 KN/m3) and low plasticity. The water retention curve showed that the material tends to lose suction quickly when moisture levels rise. Mineralogical analyzes indicated the predominance of quartz, iron and aluminum oxides and hydroxides. Oedometer tests identified low compressibility and collapsible behavior for tensions of 25, 50 and 100 kPa. The loss of shear strength due to flooding was high, reducing the cohesion value by approximately 15 times when compared to the dry condition. The results obtained demonstrated that the tailings from the rupture are highly prone to water erosion, thus contributing significantly to erosion processes and favoring environmental degradation in the basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum hydroxide has long been employed as a vaccine adjuvant for its safety profile, although its precise mechanism of action remains elusive. In this study, we investigated the transcriptomic responses in sheep spleen following repetitive vaccination with aluminum adjuvanted vaccines and aluminum hydroxide alone. Notably, this work represents the first exploration of the sheep spleen transcriptome in such conditions. Animals were splitted in 3 treatment groups: vaccine group, adjuvant alone group and control group. A total of 18 high-depth RNA-seq libraries were sequenced, resulting in a rich dataset which also allowed isoform-level analysis. The comparisons between vaccine-treated and control groups (V vs C) as well as between vaccine-treated and adjuvant-alone groups (V vs A) revealed significant alterations in gene expression profiles, including protein coding genes and long non-coding RNAs. Among the differentially expressed genes, many were associated with processes such as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, immune response and cell cycle. The analysis of co-expression modules further indicated a correlation between vaccine treatment and genes related to ER stress and unfolded protein response. Surprisingly, adjuvant-alone treatment had little impact on the spleen transcriptome. Additionally, the role of alternative splicing in the immune response was explored. We identified isoform switches in genes associated with immune regulation and inflammation, potentially influencing protein function. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the transcriptomic changes in sheep spleen following vaccination with aluminum adjuvanted vaccines and aluminum hydroxide alone. These findings shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying vaccine-induced immune responses and emphasize the significance of antigenic components in aluminum adjuvant mechanism of action. Furthermore, the analysis of alternative splicing revealed an additional layer of complexity in the immune response to vaccination in a livestock species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its antimicrobial resistance characteristics, the World Health Organization (WHO) classifies A. baumannii as one of the critical priority pathogens for the development of new therapeutic strategies. Vaccination has been approached as an interesting strategy to overcome the lack of effective antimicrobials and the long time required to develop and approve new drugs. In this study, we aimed to evaluate as a vaccine the hypothetical adhesin protein CAM87009.1 in its recombinant format (rCAM87009.1) associated with aluminum hydroxide (Alhydrogel®) or biogenic silver nanoparticles (bio-AgNP) as adjuvant components against lethal infection by A. baumannii MDR strain. Both vaccine formulations were administered in three doses intramuscularly in BALB/c murine models and the vaccinated animals were tested in a challenge assay with A. baumannii MDR strain (DL 100). rCAM87009.1 protein associated with both adjuvants was able to protect 100 % of animals challenged with the lethal strain during the challenge period. After the euthanasia of the animals, no A. baumannii colonies were detected in the lungs of animals vaccinated with the rCAM87009.1 protein in both formulations. Since the first immunization, high IgG antibody titers were observed (1:819,200), with results being statistically similar in both vaccine formulations evaluated. rCAM87009.1 associated with both adjuvants was capable of inducing at least one class of isotypes associated with the processes of neutralization (IgG2b and IgA for bio-AgNP and Alhydrogel®, respectively), opsonization (IgG1 in both vaccines) and complement activation (IgM and IgG3 for bio-AgNP and Alhydrogel®, respectively). Furthermore, reduced tissue damage was observed in animals vaccinated with rCAM87009.1 + bio-AgNP when compared to animals vaccinated with Alhydrogel®. Our results indicate that the rCAM87009.1 protein associated with both bio-AgNP and Alhydrogel® are combinations capable of promoting immunity against infections caused by A. baumannii MDR. Additionally, we demonstrate the potential of silver nanoparticles as alternative adjuvant molecules to the use of aluminum salts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodegradable plastics are gaining popularity as environmentally friendly functional materials. This study focuses on the preparation of aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3) reinforced cellulose acetate composite films using a cost‐effective approach. The process involves synthesizing bamboo‐derived cellulose acetate (BDCA), dissolving it in tetrahydrofuran with glycerol as a plasticizer, and incorporating Al(OH)3 particles into the casting solution to reinforce the cellulose acetate film. Analyses on microstructure and characteristics of the films were conducted through various techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, x‐ray diffraction (XRD), water contact angle measurement, and tensile testing. The results indicate that the Al(OH)3 particles were well‐dispersed in the composite films, leading to a strong interaction with the cellulose acetate matrix. As a result, the prepared composite films exhibited significantly higher tensile strength compared to pure bamboo‐derived cellulose film. Additionally, they demonstrated improved anti‐ultraviolet properties and a lower water vapor transmission rate, despite being more hydrophilic. This method holds significant potential for commercial applications in producing high‐performance cellulose acetate‐based composite films. Highlights: Bamboo‐derived cellulose acetate was synthesized through chemical processes.BDCA based composite film reinforced with Al(OH)3 was prepared by casting method.The Al(OH)3 significantly enhance the functional properties of the composite film.Composite films showed good performances for packaging according to the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the results of studies on the distribution of rare metals among the products of the alkali sulfate processing of nepheline syenites. In response to the limited reserves of Bayer bauxite in the alumina industrial production region of Kazakhstan, the feasibility of using alternative alumina-containing nonbauxite raw materials was investigated. The most promising nonbauxite raw materials in Kazakhstan are nepheline and kaolinite clays. At present, there is no effective technology for processing nepheline ores. This article describes a proposed complex technology involving nepheline processing with the associated extraction of gallium and vanadium. The technology includes the activation of raw materials, followed by two-stage leaching, where potassium is extracted in the first stage. The sludge and solution obtained from the second stage of the leaching process are utilized for calcium silicate production and two-stage carbonization, respectively. In the first stage, aluminum hydroxide is extracted, and, in the second stage, a concentration of rare metals, such as gallium and vanadium, is obtained. Vanadium is extracted from the solution via crystallization, and gallium is extracted via electrodeposition. Overall, 38.48% of the Ga2O3 and 56.12% of the V2O5 are recovered from raw nepheline syenite. A technological scheme of the developed technology is presented in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For obtaining flame retardant, oil resistance, high strength, and softness EVA/POE‐g‐MAH composites for cables, multifunctional modified magnesium hydroxide (MH‐KH570), and aluminum hydroxide (ATH‐KH570) were prepared by grafting γ‐(methacryloyloxy) propyltrimethoxysilane (KH570) onto the surface of MH and ATH. The successful grafting was confirmed by Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometer, scanning electron microscope, thermogravimetric analysis, and contact angle test. The hydrophobicity of MH and ATH was enhanced and the decompose time was extended, called the "sustained release" effect. The ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA)/maleic anhydride grafted polyolefin elastomer (POE‐g‐MAH) composites containing 62.5 wt% the mixture of MH‐KH570 and ATH‐KH570 in a 1:1 mass ratio was prepared. The vertical combustion test, limited oxygen index (LOI), and cone calorimetry proved the flame retardancy performance of the EVA/POE‐g‐MAH composites were enhanced, because of the homogeneous dispersion and the "sustained release" effect of MH‐KH570 and ATH‐KH570. The vertical combustion and LOI reached V‐0 and 38.1%. Importantly, the "crosslinking" effect of MH‐KH570 and ATH‐KH570 further enhanced the tensile strength after the composites crosslinked, and reached 19.9 MPa. In a word, a simple method for preparing flame retardant EVA/POE‐g‐MAH composites with high tensile strength was provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slow-release fertilizers (SRFs) form the core of innovative strategies in sustainable agriculture. Layered Double Hydroxides (LDH), known for their high capacity to sequester plant nutrients, especially phosphate, are emerging as promising candidates for SRF synthesis. The phosphate release properties of MgAl LDH (with a targeted Mg/Al ratio of 2.0) intercalated with HPO42− anions were assessed in various aqueous environments. A comprehensive analysis, including in-depth chemical and structural characterizations (ICP-OES, XRD, PDF, 27Al NMR, 31P NMR, FTIR, SEM) of the as-prepared phase unveiled a more intricate composition than anticipated for a pure or ideal Mg2Al-HPO4 LDH, encompassing an excess of intercalated phosphate in conjunction with K+. Beyond the intercalated phosphate, solid state 31P NMR speciation identified multiple HxPO4(−3+x) environments, indicating a portion of the phosphate reacting with intralayer Mg2+ to form K-struvite. Additionally, some phosphates were adsorbed onto the surface of amorphous aluminum hydroxide, a side phase formed during MgAl coprecipitation. The phosphate release demonstrated rapid kinetics, occurring within 6 days. Moreover, the released phosphate increased significantly when reducing the Solid/Liquid (S/L) ratio (58%) and further increasing in the presence of carbonate ions (90%). The released phosphate varied from 12% to 90% under different release conditions, transitioning from water to a 3.33 mM NaHCO3 aqueous solution at a low S/L ratio (from 20 mg LDH per mL to 0.02 mg LDH per mL). The simultaneous release of K+, Mg2+, Al3+ indicated the complete dissolution of the K-struvite and partial dissolution of phosphate intercalated MgAl LDH. These results enhanced our understanding of the mechanism governing phosphate release from MgAl LDH, paving the way for potential phosphate recovery by LDH or for the development of LDH-based SRFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Progress toward developing a novel radiocontrast agent for determining pO2 in tumors in a clinical setting is described. The imaging agent is designed for use with electron paramagnetic resonance imaging (EPRI), in which the collision of a paramagnetic probe molecule with molecular oxygen causes a spectroscopic change which can be calibrated to give the real oxygen concentration in the tumor tissue. Procedures: The imaging agent is based on a nanoscaffold of aluminum hydroxide (boehmite) with sizes from 100 to 200 nm, paramagnetic probe molecule, and encapsulation with a gas permeable, thin (10–20 nm) polymer layer to separate the imaging agent and body environment while still allowing O2 to interact with the paramagnetic probe. A specially designed deuterated Finland trityl (dFT) is covalently attached on the surface of the nanoparticle through 1,3-dipolar addition of the alkyne on the dFT with an azide on the surface of the nanoscaffold. This click-chemistry reaction affords 100% efficiency of the trityl attachment as followed by the complete disappearance of the azide peak in the infrared spectrum. The fully encapsulated, dFT-functionalized nanoparticle is referred to as RADI-Sense. Results: Side-by-side in vivo imaging comparisons made in a mouse model made between RADI-Sense and free paramagnetic probe (OX-071) showed oxygen sensitivity is retained and RADI-Sense can create 3D pO2 maps of solid tumors Conclusions: A novel encapsulated nanoparticle EPR imaging agent has been described which could be used in the future to bring EPR imaging for guidance of radiotherapy into clinical reality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Combined stresses during manufacturing process could affect the structure and physicochemical properties of AH adjuvant. • Accidental −20 °C freezing led to the adjuvant agglomeration and rapid sedimentation. • Autoclaving process would increase the particle size of AH adjuvant minimum unit structure. • High shear stress led to the average particle dimension of the bulk AH adjuvant decreased, along with decreasing protein adsorption strength. Vaccine manufacturing is one of the most challenging and complex processes in pharmaceutical industry, and the process control strategy is critical for the safety, effectiveness, and consistency of a vaccine. The efficacy of aluminum salt adjuvant on vaccines strongly depends on its physicochemical properties, such as size, structure, surface charge, etc. However, stresses during the vaccine manufacturing may affect the stability of adjuvant. In this study, the impacts of cold/thermal stress, autoclaving, pumping, mixing, and filling shear stress on the physicochemical properties of aluminum hydroxide (AH) adjuvant were evaluated as part of the manufacturing process development. The results showed that the autoclaving process would slightly influence the structure and properties of the investigated AH adjuvant, but thermal incubation at 2–8 °C, 25 °C and 40 °C for 4 weeks did not. However, -20 °C freezing AH adjuvant led to the adjuvant agglomeration and rapid sedimentation. For the high shear stress study with mixing at 500 rpm in a 1-L mixing bag and pumping at 220 rpm for up to 24 h, the average particle dimension of the bulk AH adjuvant decreased, along with decreasing protein adsorption ratio. The studies indicate that various stresses during manufacturing process could affect the structure and physicochemical properties of AH adjuvant, which calls for more attention on the control of adjuvant process parameters during manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their lamellar nano-sheet structure, layered double hydroxides (LDH) are known as materials suitable for carrying certain active, functional molecules which can be easily intercalated. The properties of LDHs depend strongly on the synthesis parameters, especially on the pH value of the reaction medium. To gain a thorough understanding of how pH impacts the synthesis outcomes, a range of ZnAl-LDH suspensions were created through a modified method of low supersaturation co-precipitation at different pH levels spanning from 7 to 10. Almost all synthesis routes of LDHs, both direct and indirect, employ some kind of thermal treatment, either during the synthesis or after it, aiming to improve the crystallinity of the products. Accordingly, comprehensive thermogravimetric and dynamic scanning calorimetry assessments were carried out on synthesised samples. For those produced at the lowest and highest pH levels, an analysis of emitted gases was conducted. Extensive microstructure examinations via X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) was performed both before and after thermal treatment. Through XRD analysis, complemented by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy measurements, the crystal phases within the synthesised ZnAl-LDHs were identified, and the microstructure results were compared to delineate the pathways of thermally induced zinc and aluminium crystal phase transitions relative to the pH of the reaction medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We compared the immunogenicity of recombinant S. pneumoniae pneumolysin (rPly) when administered with and without Al(OH)3 adjuvant, and evaluated the protective properties of recombinant protein in the active defense experiment. It was shown that double immunization with rPly+Al(OH)3 increases the levels of IgG antibodies in comparison with the control (p<0.01), while triple immunization results in a more significant increase in IgG antibody levels (p<0.001). Double immunization with rPly without Al(OH)3 does not induce a significant increase in antibody levels in comparison with the control, while triple immunization results in a slight but significant increase in antibody levels (p<0.05). The active defense test proved the protective activity of rPly against S. pneumoniae serotype 3 at intranasal infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An incomplete Freund's adjuvant elicited an overt pathogenesis in vaccinated mice following the intranasal challenge of A/California/07/2009 (H1N1) virus despite the induction of a higher specific antibody titer than other adjuvanted formulations. Aluminum hydroxide adjuvants have not induced any pathogenic signs in a variety of formulations with glycolipids. A glycolipid, α-galactosyl ceramide, improved a stimulatory effect of distinct adjuvanted formulations on an anti-influenza A antibody response. In contrast to α-galactosyl ceramide, its synthetic analogue C34 was antagonistic toward a stimulatory effect of an aluminum hydroxide adjuvant on a specific antibody response. The aluminum hydroxide adjuvant alone could confer complete vaccine-induced protection against mortality as well as morbidity caused by a lethal challenge of the same strain of an influenza A virus. The research results indicated that adjuvants could reshape immune responses either to improve vaccine-induced immunity or to provoke an unexpected pathogenic consequence. On the basis of these observations, this research connotes the prominence to develop a precision adjuvant for innocuous vaccination aimed at generating a protective immunity without aberrant responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aluminum hydroxide produced by the Bayer process contains a large amount of water which leads to the consumption of a large amount of heat for moisture removal in the calcination process, resulting in an increased energy consumption. The effects of temperature and microwave power on the dehydration ratio and the dry matter ratio of aluminum hydroxide were investigated. The characteristics of temperature variation during drying were discussed. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), laser particle size, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and dielectric property analyses were made to characterize the dried materials. The analysis results showed that within the range of bench-scale experimental parameters, the dehydration ratio was higher and the proportion of dry matter was lower at a higher final temperature. Within the range of pilot-scale experimental parameters, the dehydration ratio increased with the increasing microwave power from 500 W to 1500 W. XRD spectra revealed that when the final temperature exceeded 220 °C, a part of the aluminum hydroxide underwent a low-temperature phase transition to boehmite. The SEM images and a particle size analysis showed that there was no significant difference between the morphologies of the powder obtained by microwave drying and conventional drying methods. The powder obtained by both processes had an average particle size of around 80 μm. The dielectric constant and the dielectric loss of the dried material decreased greatly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swine atrophic rhinitis is a disease caused by Pasteurella multocida and Bordetella bronchiseptica that affects pigs. Inactivated vaccines containing the toxins produced by Pasteurella multocida and Bordetella bronchiseptica have been widely used for the prevention of swine atrophic rhinitis. The efficacy of a vaccine is correlated with the amount of antigen present; however, the protective toxin of P. multocida bound to aluminum hydroxide, which is used as an adjuvant, can hinder the monitoring of the antigen concentration in the vaccine. This study assessed the applicability of a dot immunoassay as an antigen quantification method using monoclonal antibodies. This quantification method was able to detect the antigen with high specificity and sensitivity even when the antigen was bound to the adjuvant, and its application to vaccine products revealed a correlation between the amount of antigen present in the vaccine and the neutralizing antibody titers induced in pigs. The antigen quantification method presented in this study is a simple and sensitive assay capable of quantifying the amount of antigen present in a vaccine that can be used as an alternative quality control measure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal Phthalocyanines (MPcs) undergo appreciable interaction mechanism with chemical analytes on account of their high sensitivity in terms of charge densities, optical and spectroscopic properties. In the present work, we aim to integrate the advantages of three MPcs with three different metal ions, similar functional group and a ligand attached to central metal ion to device chemresistor sensors. Four chemresistor devices were fabricated using permutation combinations of three MPcs; tetrasulfonic acid tetrasodium salt functionalized Nickel Phthalocyanine (NiPcS) and Copper Phtalocyanines (CuPcS) and Aluminium Phthalocyanine hydroxide (AlPcOH). The chemresistors were tested for surface-interface studies with an aromatic vapor benzene and strong oxidizing vapor bromine. For benzene, NiPcS–AlPcOH composite exhibited maximum sensitivity (≈ 2.73 ppm−1) and for bromine, CuPcS–AlPcOH composite shows highest sensitivity (≈ 72 ppm−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold sintering of gibbsite and boehmite, which are difficult to densify by conventional sintering processes that require heating above 1000 °C owing to thermal decomposition, was attempted at various CSP temperatures. When boehmite particles were cold sintered, densification did not progress substantially, with a maximum relative density of 62% achieved at 200 °C. On the other hand, when gibbsite particles were cold sintered, the relative density of the hardened bodies increased significantly with temperature up to 150 °C, with a maximum value of 82%. However, when gibbsite was cold sintered at temperatures above 200 °C, phase transformation from gibbsite to boehmite took place, and the relative density of the hardened body decreased significantly. The precipitated boehmite particles bonded to each other to form a three-dimensional network, and the hardened body fabricated at 250 °C showed a compressive strength of 115 MPa despite a low relative density of 62%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to systematically study the suppression effect of Aluminum hydroxide[Al(OH)3] and Magnesium hydroxide[Mg(OH)2] on the explosion of flour, Hartmann experiment system was used to carry out the explosion flame propagation experiment, and the influence of adding different proportions of Al(OH)3 and Mg(OH)2 powder on the morphology and propagation speed of flour combustion flame was studied. Combined with the thermogravimetric analysis (TG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) curves of Al(OH)3 and Mg(OH)2 powder, the inhibition mechanism of Al(OH)3 and Mg(OH)2 powder on flour explosion was analyzed. The results showed that with the increase of Al(OH)3 and Mg(OH)2, the flame propagation speed gradually decreases. After adding 40%wt Mg(OH)2, when t = 182 ms, the flame reaches the top of the glass tube. When 60 wt% Mg(OH)2 and 60 wt% Al(OH)3 powder were added, the maximum flame propagation velocity of flour decreased from 13.86 m/s to 5.78 m/s and 1.62 m/s, respectively, and Al(OH)3 was superior to Mg(OH)2 in inhibiting flame propagation. Both inhibitors can inhibit flour combustion by adsorption of H and OH radicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excess fluoride in drinking water causes both dental and skeletal fluorosis among other problems. As such there is need to develop affordable and easily accessible techniques for fluoride removal from drinking water. This work assessed surface modified diatomite mixed with brick for fluoride removal. Diatomite samples were modified using aluminium hydroxide and the mixture was optimized for fluoride removal through response surface methodology (RSM) using the Box-Wilson central composite design. Batch experiments showed that, individually, a 28 g/L dose of the surface modified diatomite sufficiently removed fluoride to the acceptable level of 1.5 mg/L from an initial concentration of 10 mg/L fluoride while a 300 g/L dose of brick powder was required to remove an equal amount of fluoride in the same water samples. RSM optimization showed that a mixture of surface modified diatomite and brick in the mass ratio 1.8:17.8 grams per milligram of fluoride in water can be used to remove fluoride in water to an acceptable level. Adsorption of fluoride by surface modified diatomite fit better into the Freundlich adsorption isotherm (R 2 = 0.9753) compared to the Langmuir (R 2 = 0.8954), while adsorption by brick better fit the Langmuir adsorption mechanism (R 2 = 0.9804) in comparison to the Freundlich adsorption (R 2 = 0.9372). Kinetic studies revealed that chemisorption was the main mechanism for both surface modified diatomite and brick adsorbents. Conclusively, an optimal mixture of surface modified diatomite and brick can be successfully used for fluoride removal in areas for which water has high fluoride contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The development of combinatorial adjuvants is a promising strategy to boost vaccination efficiency. Accumulating evidence indicates that manganese exerts strong immunocompetence and will become an enormous potential adjuvant. Here, we described a novel combination of Mn2+ plus aluminum hydroxide (AH) adjuvant that significantly exhibited the synergistic immune effect. Methodology. Initially, IsdB3 proteins as the immune-dominant fragment of IsdB proteins derived from Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) were prepared. IsdB3 proteins were identified by western blotting. Furthermore, we immunized C57/B6 mice with IsdB3 proteins plus Mn2+ and AH adjuvant. After the second immunization, the proliferation of lymphocytes was measured by the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and the level of IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-17 cytokine from spleen lymphocytes in mice and generation of the antibodies against IsdB3 in serum was detected with ELISA, and the protective immune response was assessed through S. aureus challenge. Results. IsdB3 proteins plus Mn2+ and AH obviously stimulated the proliferation of spleen lymphocytes and increased the secretion of IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-17 cytokine in mice, markedly enhanced the generation of the antibodies against IsdB3 in serum, observably decreased bacterial load in organs, and greatly improved the survival rate of mice. Conclusion. These data showed that the combination of Mn2+ and AH significantly acted a synergistic effect, reinforced the immunogenicity of IsdB3, and offered a new strategy to increase vaccine efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymeric materials, renowned for their lightweight attributes and design adaptability, play a pivotal role in augmenting fuel efficiency and cost-effectiveness in railway vehicle development. The tailored formulation of compounds, specifically designed for additive manufacturing, holds significant promise in expanding the use of these materials. This study centers on poly(lactic acid) (PLA), a natural-based biodegradable polymeric material incorporating diverse halogen-free flame retardants (FRs). Our investigation scrutinizes the printability and fire performance of these formulations, aligning with the European railway standard EN 45545-2. The findings underscore that FR in the condensed phase, including ammonium polyphosphate (APP), expandable graphite (EG), and intumescent systems, exhibit superior fire performance. Notably, FR-inducing hydrolytic degradation, such as aluminum hydroxide (ATH) or EG, reduces polymer molecular weight, significantly impacting PLA's mechanical performance. Achieving a delicate balance between fire resistance and mechanical properties, formulations with APP as the flame retardant emerge as optimal. This research contributes to understanding the fire performance and printability of 3D-printed PLA compounds, offering vital insights for the rail industry's adoption of polymeric materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]