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The increasing number of proposed technologies for the active treatment of acid mine drainage (AMD) raises a problem for decision-makers during the selection process. Selecting the optimum treatment technology requires extensive analysis to determine the best possible treatment based on multiple and often conflicting criteria. The introduction of multi-decision criteria analysis (MCDA) provides a systematic approach to problem-solving based on both quantitative and qualitative data. In this study, analytic hierarchy process (AHP) as an MCDA tool was used to select the optimum treatment option for AMD in a local copper mining site in the Philippines. Three treatment technologies were found to be the most applicable - a combination of Conventional Lime Neutralization and Sulfidogenic Bioreactor (CLN + SB), High-Density Sludge (HDS) Process, and a combination of Two-Step Neutralization Ferrite Formation and Sulfidogenic Bioreactor (TSNFF + SB). Three criteria - technical, economic, and environmental - and eight sub-criteria were used to evaluate and analyze the three alternatives systematically. The overall ranking of the alternatives was TSNFF + SB > HDS > CLN + SB. However, sensitivity analysis showed that HDS was the most stable treatment technology when equal weights were given for each criterion. Implications from this study could provide a more reliable information for possible technology adoption to sustainably address problems on AMD which is one of the leading global environmental problems today. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acid-alkaline electrolyzers utilize an acidic catholyte and alkaline anolyte, which lower the thermodynamic voltage requirement for water splitting. Experiments have demonstrated the feasibility of acid-alkaline electrolyzers with proton exchange membranes, but a mathematical model has yet to be developed to understand their operation. This work developed a multiphysics model of a batch acid-alkaline electrolyzer with a H2SO4 catholyte, a NaOH anolyte, and a proton exchange membrane. The model was formulated in COMSOL Multiphysics® and validated using experimental current vs. voltage data in literature. The electrolyzer's reactions and ion transport were analyzed based on the electrolyte potential, concentration profiles, and ion fluxes calculated by the model. The charge imbalance due to the consumption of H+ and OH- in the catholyte and anolyte, respectively, is addressed by Na+ transport from the anolyte to the catholyte. This contradicts the prevailing hypothesis that electroneutrality in a proton exchange membrane acid-alkaline electrolyzers is preserved by the Second Wien Effect, or water splitting in high electric fields. H+ is transported from the catholyte to the anolyte, which results in undesired acid-base neutralization. This is minimized by increasing the applied voltage, which shows a tradeoff between power and reactant consumption. Na+-selective membranes also hinder the neutralization reaction, but their realization is challenging due to the smaller Stokes radius of H+. The proposed model can be used to optimize the parameters of a batch electrolyzer and aid in the design of a continuous electrolyzer stack. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the duration of immunity as well as maternally derived antibodies (MDA) induced by the innovated tissue culture pigeon pox vaccine (TC-PPV) were evaluated for the first time. It was found that the postvaccinal reaction was more prominent in pigeons vaccinated with egg-adapted PPV (EG-PPV) (100%) than in pigeons vaccinated with TC-PPV (88%). The duration of induced immunity was higher using EG-PPV (1 year with a peak of neutralizing antibodies index 3.25 while it was 2.75 using TC-PPV) after 1 month of vaccination. MDA in squabs of vaccinated dams with TC-PPV maintained the protective level of antibodies up to 3weeks post-hatching (WPH) with 100% protection against a challenge. In contrast, in squabs of vaccinates with EGPPV, it remained up to 4 WPH with 90 % protection. Such antibody levels hinder the immune response to vaccination with TC-PPV resulting in vaccination failure with 40% protection for squabs of TC-PPV vaccinated dams at 3rd WPH and 60% protection for squabs of EG-PPV vaccinated dams at 4th WPH reflecting the successive vaccination at the 4th WPH and 5th WPH, respectively for hatched squabs with 80% protection in both groups while in squabs of unvaccinated dams; the vaccination with TC-PPV appears to be protective from 2nd WPH with 100% protection. In addition, this study recommends revaccination of pigeons with TC-PPV after 10 months and vaccination of their squabs not before 4 WPH to avoid vaccination failure by M DA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work comprises researches on studying the possibility to use Fluoro-Anhydrite - fluor-hydric acid production waste in building industry. The effect of the dispersion and the amount of the neutralising agent on the completeness of the neutralisation reaction of acid Fluoro-Anhydrite is investigated. A method for obtaining a synthanite from hydrofluoric acid production waste is proposed, including neutralisation of the waste with a lime-containing component, followed by grinding and separation of the binder, characterized in that the production waste is additionally denaturalised by its chemical activation with quicklime to pH 12 and a sulfate additive, followed by grinding to a specific surface area of 9,000 cm² /g. Ensuring that the pH level of the binder mixture reaches 10-12 leads to an improvement in the physical and technical properties of synthanite: an increase in strength by 3.5-4 times, a reduction in the setting time by up to 9-12 times. The possibility has been proved to produce М25 and М50 dry plasters intended for finishing work based on developed airhardening synthanite. It is recommended to use plasters inside the premises when air humidity is not higher than (60-70) %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dissociative recombination (DR) rate coefficients for the naphthalene cation, C10H8+, and WF5+, and mutual neutralization (MN) rate coefficients for these species and five CnFm+ ions, were determined at 300 K using variable electron and neutral density attachment mass spectrometry (VENDAMS). DR proceeds at 9 ± 3 × 10-7 cm³ s-1 for C10H8+ and at 6.1 ± 1.4 × 10-7 cm³ s-1 for WF5+. Consistent with previous results, MN for the polyatomic cations with the halide anions Cl-, Br-, and I- exhibits an approximate μ-1/2 reduced mass dependence of the reactant partners, demonstrating that ion collision velocities influence the rate coefficients. This work is an extension of VENDAMS to systems, where low reactant concentrations are necessary to avoid significant reaction of product ions with the neutral precursor, i.e., conditions not suitable for traditional flowing afterglow measurements, as well as to ions of masses > - 100 Da, which are not amenable to the study of DR in magnetic storage rings. Our results expand the sparse literature on DR and MN of heavier ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dissociative recombination (DR) rate coefficients for the naphthalene cation, C10H8+, and WF5+, and mutual neutralization (MN) rate coefficients for these species and five CnFm+ ions, were determined at 300 K using variable electron and neutral density attachment mass spectrometry (VENDAMS). DR proceeds at 9 ± 3 × 10-7 cm³ s-1 for C10H8+ and at 6.1 ± 1.4 × 10-7 cm³ s-1 for WF5+. Consistent with previous results, MN for the polyatomic cations with the halide anions Cl-, Br-, and I- exhibits an approximate μ-1/2 reduced mass dependence of the reactant partners, demonstrating that ion collision velocities influence the rate coefficients. This work is an extension of VENDAMS to systems, where low reactant concentrations are necessary to avoid significant reaction of product ions with the neutral precursor, i.e., conditions not suitable for traditional flowing afterglow measurements, as well as to ions of masses > - 100 Da, which are not amenable to the study of DR in magnetic storage rings. Our results expand the sparse literature on DR and MN of heavier ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precipitation processes have been successfully proved to be a feasible route to extract high-value products from wastes. However, reactive crystallization is characterized by fast kinetics, especially when highly concentrated solutions are used or sparingly soluble compounds precipitate, thus requiring a fast mixing of the reactants. In this context, T-shaped mixers have been extensively investigated both experimentally and numerically as a mean to achieve a rapid reactants homogenization. Many research efforts have been focused on the analysis of rectangular cross-sectional T-shaped mixers, while less attention has been devoted to the study of circular cross-sectional ones. In the present work, mixing times in a 3 mm circular crosssectional T-shaped mixer have been optically estimated by exploiting the extremely fast neutralization reaction between sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid solutions. Reynolds numbers ranging between 1,000 and 6,000 were investigated. Mixing phenomena were (i) captured by detecting the colour change of a pH indicator by means of a high frame rate camera and (ii) quantified by a suitable image analysis technique. The assessed mixing times were found in accordance with available data in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The beat in physical systems is a transparent and well-understood phenomenon. It may occur in forced oscillatory systems and as a result of the interference of two waves of slightly different frequencies. However, in chemical systems, the realization of the latter type of the beat phenomenon has been lacking. Here we show that a periodic titration of acid and alkaline solutions with each other using programmable syringe pumps in a continuous stirred-tank reactor exhibits the beat phenomenon in the temporal pH oscillation pattern if the time periods of sinusoidal inflow rates of the reagents are slightly different. Interestingly, the frequency of the chemical beat pattern follows the well-known relationship from physics, namely the frequency of the beat is equal to the absolute value of the difference of the two wave frequencies. Based on our strategy, we can design and engineer non-autonomous pH oscillatory systems, in which the characteristics of the temporal oscillations (amplitude, time period) can easily and precisely be controlled by the experimental conditions such as the inflow rates and feed concentrations. The demonstrated phenomena can be exploited in practical applications, we use the non-autonomous pH oscillators to drive the reversible assembly and disassembly of pH-sensitive building blocks (oleic acid and gold nanoparticles), both highly relevant in nanotechnology and biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Approaches are needed for therapy of the severe acute respiratory syndrome from SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (COVID-19). Interfering with the interaction of viral antigens with the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptor is a promising strategy by blocking the infection of the coronaviruses into human cells. We have implemented a novel protein engineering technology to produce a super-potent tetravalent form of ACE2, coupled to the human immunoglobulin γ1 Fc region, using a self-assembling, tetramerization domain from p53 protein. This high molecular weight Quad protein (ACE2-Fc-TD) retains binding to the SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding spike protein and can form a complex with the spike protein plus anti-viral antibodies. The ACE2-Fc-TD acts as a powerful decoy protein that out-performs soluble monomeric and dimeric ACE2 proteins and blocks both SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus and SARS-CoV-2 virus infection with greatly enhanced efficacy. The ACE2 tetrameric protein complex promise to be important for development as decoy therapeutic proteins against COVID-19. In contrast to monoclonal antibodies, ACE2 decoy is unlikely to be affected by mutations in SARS-CoV-2 that are beginning to appear in variant forms. In addition, ACE2 multimeric proteins will be available as therapeutic proteins should new coronaviruses appear in the future because these are likely to interact with ACE2 receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spontaneous and photo-induced neutralization of C7- produced in a laser ablation source was measured in an electrostatic storage ring. The measurements provide three independent determinations of the radiative cooling of the ions, based on the short time spontaneous decay and on the integrated amplitude and the shape of the photo-induced neutralization signal. The amplitude of the photo-induced signal was measured between 0.5 ms and 35 ms and found to depend on photon wavelength and ion storage time. All three signals can be reproduced with identical thermal IR radiative cooling rates with oscillator strengths equal to theoretical predictions. In addition, the measurements provide the excitation energy distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spontaneous and photo-induced neutralization of C7- produced in a laser ablation source was measured in an electrostatic storage ring. The measurements provide three independent determinations of the radiative cooling of the ions, based on the short time spontaneous decay and on the integrated amplitude and the shape of the photo-induced neutralization signal. The amplitude of the photo-induced signal was measured between 0.5 ms and 35 ms and found to depend on photon wavelength and ion storage time. All three signals can be reproduced with identical thermal IR radiative cooling rates with oscillator strengths equal to theoretical predictions. In addition, the measurements provide the excitation energy distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fast and untraceable virus mutations take lives of thousands of people before the immune system can produce the inhibitory antibody. The recent outbreak of COVID-19 infected and killed thousands of people in the world. Rapid methods in finding peptides or antibody sequences that can inhibit the viral epitopes of SARS-CoV-2 will save the life of thousands. To predict neutralizing antibodies for SARS-CoV-2 in a high-throughput manner, in this paper, we use different machine learning (ML) model to predict the possible inhibitory synthetic antibodies for SARS-CoV-2. We collected 1933 virus-antibody sequences and their clinical patient neutralization response and trained an ML model to predict the antibody response. Using graph featurization with variety of ML methods, like XGBoost, Random Forest, Multilayered Perceptron, Support Vector Machine and Logistic Regression, we screened thousands of hypothetical antibody sequences and found nine stable antibodies that potentially inhibit SARS-CoV-2. We combined bioinformatics, structural biology, and Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations to verify the stability of the candidate antibodies that can inhibit SARS-CoV-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experimental investigation of chemically triggered convection is carried out. A two-layer system of miscible reactive fluids—the neutralization reaction between an acid and a base—is considered in a vertical Hele-Shaw cell. This system is subject to the action of gravity and vertical translational vibrations (modulated gravity). During the reaction, a less dense salt solution emerges in the reaction zone, thus triggering the buoyancy-driven convection in the form of concentration plumes rising in the upper layer. The particle image velocimetry is used as the method of study. The considered system is non-stationary, and a technique is developed for the processing of a long series of images registered during experiments. The evolution of the flow structures and of the convection intensity is analyzed. In the considered range of experimental parameters the vibrations slightly slow down the convection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nature friendly technologies in today's world are the subject of scientific research and the interest of local authorities and the residents themselves. In the context of the city, one of the most important issues is the neutralization of air pollution generated by transport and heating of the premises with the use of solid fuels. The article analyses differences of the response of traditional and photocatalytic paving stones. We analysed water absorption, frost resistance, tensile strength at splitting and abrasion of paving stones. It has been proved that paving stones exposed to atmospheric factors and pollution during one heating season met the assumed quality criteria. In addition, the results obtained for the characteristics analysed were higher than the results of samples tested in laboratory conditions. The results also indicate a slight advantage of photocatalytic cubes in terms of their resistance to abrasion and tensile strength at splitting. Traditional and photocatalytic paving stones withstand well the operating conditions. It seems that products based on TioCem® cement are the future implementation of pedestrian and traffic routes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have studied the dependence of several ion-ion mutual neutralization (MN) reactions on helium density in the range from 1.6 × 1016 to 1.5 × 1017 cm-3 at 300 K, using the Variable Electron and Neutral Density Attachment Mass Spectrometry method. The rate coefficients of the reactions Ar+ + Br2-, Ar+ + SF6-, and Ar+ + C7F14- were found to be independent of gas density over the range studied, in disagreement with earlier observations that similar MN reactions are strongly enhanced at the same gas densities. The cause of the previous enhancement with density is traced to the use of 'orbital-motion-limit' theory to infer ion densities from the currents collected by ion-attracting Langmuir probes in a region where it is not applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogenic Escherichia coli can cause fatal diarrheal diseases in both animals and humans. However, no antibiotics or antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) can adequately kill resistant bacteria and clear bacterial endotoxin, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) which leads to inflammation and sepsis. Here, the LPS-targeted smart chimeric peptides (SCPs)-A6 and G6 are generated by connecting LPS-targeting peptide-LBP14 and killing domain-N6 via different linkers. Rigid and flexible linkers retain the independent biological activities from each component. SCPs-A6 and G6 exert low toxicity and no bacterial resistance, and they more rapidly kill multiple-drug-resistant E. coli and more effectively neutralize LPS toxicity than N6 alone. The SCPs can enhance mouse survival more effectively than N6 or polymyxin B and alleviate lung injuries by blocking mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor kappa-B p65 activation. These findings uniquely show that SCPs-A6 and G6 may be promising dual-function candidates as improved antibacterial and anti-endotoxin agents to treat bacterial infection and sepsis. Wang ZL and Wang XM design bactericidal peptides in which an antimicrobial domain is fused to a domain that facilitates the neutralisation of lipoplysaccaride (LPS) to prevent inflammation associated with the targeting of Gram-negative bacteria. They characterise their properties and structures, and show their efficiency in vitro and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex-I ( I i.e., i nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH):ubiquinone (quinone or Q) oxidoreductase) of the respiratory chain is crucial for converting energy from its redox form ( I i.e., i electron transfer) to the transmembrane electrochemical potential (Hirst [27]; Kaila [31]; Verkhovskaya and Bloch [52]; Walker [55]). Together, they form an electron buffer zone between the NADH-redox center (also termed N-module) and quinone-redox center (Q-module) (Brandt [6]), with all prosthetic groups being reduced during steady-state turnover most of the time (Ohnishi I et al. i [38]). In the Q-reduction catalyzed by Complex-I, the electron pair is first injected to the electroneutral quinone bound at the reaction center which is located on the negative side of the electric dipoles of the Glu SP TM5 sp -Lys SP TM7 sp pair; later, the electron pair is neutralized by Q SP 2- sp -protonation. The detailed mechanism of how proton loading in the C SB in sb state triggers the neutralization of electrons in the redox center remains to be further investigated, though it is likely to be complex-specific, depending on the type of redox arm used. In such cases, the electron may even be rejected back from the ionized quinone (Q SP 2- sp ) into the electron buffer zone in the redox arm, and thus the redox reaction be reversed. [Extracted from the article]

Urease-producing bacteria (especially Proteus mirabilis) can cause infection kidney stone. However, recent studies have shown that intact viable non-urease-producing bacteria such as Escherichia coli might also promote calcium oxalate (CaOx) kidney stone formation but with unclear mechanism. We thus hypothesized that some relevant bacterial components might be responsible for such promoting effects of the intact viable E. coli. Flagella, capsule, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) were isolated/purified and their stone modulatory activities were evaluated using CaOx crystallization, crystal growth, and crystal aggregation assays. Among these, flagella had the most potent promoting effects on CaOx crystallization, crystal growth, and crystal aggregation. Validation was performed by deflagellation demonstrating that the deflagellated intact viable E. coli had markedly reduced CaOx crystal modulatory activities in all aspects (comparable to those of the negative controls). Similarly, neutralization of the isolated/purified flagella using a specific anti-flagellin antibody, not an isotype control, could abolish the promoting effects of flagella. These findings provide direct evidence indicating that flagellum is responsible for the promoting effects of the viable E. coli on CaOx crystallization, crystal growth and aggregation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present measurements of absolute cross sections for projectile ionization and electron capture for C+, N+ and CnN+ (n = 1–3) projectiles impinging on He atoms with velocity v = 2.2 a.u. Single and multiple electron processes are considered, as well as projectile dissociative excitation in the case of incident molecular cations. The measurements are compared to Classical Trajectory Monte Carlo (CTMC) calculations for C+, N+ + He collisions in the framework of the independent electron approximation. CnN+ + He systems are described by means of the independent atom and electron (IAE) model which represents the molecule as a set of independent atoms. The impact parameter probabilities for excitation, ionization and electron transfer in C, C+, N–He collisions, underlying the IAE calculations, are also obtained by means of CTMC computations. A good agreement is generally found between measured and calculated cross sections, except for anionic production of C− and CnN−. The internal energy deposit due to electron excitation in CnN+ is also calculated with the IAE/CTMC model and compared to semi-empirical estimates based on either measured dissociation branching ratios for C2N+ and C3N+ (IdBarkach et al 2018 Mol. Astrophys. 12 25) or measured fragments kinetic energy release for CN+. Finally, measured dissociation branching ratios of excited CnN− and CnNQ+ species, with 1 ≤ n ≤3 and 0 ≤ Q ≤ 4, are reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel coordinated polymer designed in PVP aqueous solution to synthesize M 2 P 2 O 7 @NC exhibiting superior HER and ORR. • A novel coordinated polymer was prepared in PVP aqueous solution with green method. • Proton-transfer induced deprotonation and protonation for ATMP and MeMI respectively. • A large number of active sites of M 2 P 2 O 7 NPs induced high ORR and HER performance. Tuning the coordination environment between metal centers and organic ligands is a promising way to design of the precursors of electrocatalysts for water splitting or other renewable energy options. In this work, a novel coordinated polymer was prepared feasibly in polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) aqueous solution using aminotrimethylene phosphonic acid (ATMP, L 1) and 2-methylimidazole (MeMI, L 2) as ligands with the ratio of 2:5, Co2+ and Zn2+ as metal centers. Based on the concept of acid-base neutralization reaction, the proton-transfer induced "deprotonation and protonation" for L 1 and L 2 , respectively. Thus, the coordination was dominated by the deprotonated L 1. Owing to also partial of protonated L 2 adsorbed as "counter ions", carbonization of the obtained precursor at 800 °C under N 2 atmosphere endows the pyrolysis product with nitrogen-doped carbon supported metal pyrophosphate (M 2 P 2 O 7 @NC). Thus, the resulting M 2 P 2 O 7 @NC exhibits the enhanced and durable ORR and HER performance. For ORR in 0.1 M KOH, an enhanced onset potential (0.925 V vs. RHE), half wave potential (0.793 V vs. RHE) and diffusion limiting current (6.132 mA cm−2) can be obtained comparable to those of Pt/C. For HER in 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 , it only needs an over potential of 180 mV to realize a current density of 10 mA cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In most laboratories dengue antibodies are measured by hemagglutination inhibition (HI), complement fixation (CF), or enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) tests adapted to micromethods. They do not reliably identify the infecting serotype. This paper proposes a description of the modified semi-micro plaque reduction neutralization test used successfully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the options for neutralising the waste fluoroanhydrite also containing residues of sulphuric acid. A process is proposed by which all reagents provide a neutral or alkaline environment with pH ≥ 7 which remains unchanged for more than 28 d. This indicates that complete and irreversible neutralisation of the toxic fluorine-containing waste materials was ensured. The used reagents were CaO, CaCO3, KOH, Na2CO3 and Ca(OH)2. The most efficient reagents, also resulting in stability of the product are CaO and Ca(OH)2. The obtained results lead to proposing the use of the process output as a component for the production of ceramic products for the construction industry. This will allow obtaining additional benefits from replacing primary natural materials and the associated emissions for their sourcing and production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A calcium-rich rock (limestone) was used as adsorbent to remove phosphorus from water. Phosphorus could be subsequently desorbed from limestone at pH = 4, and potentially reused as fertilizer following pH neutralization. Sorption of phosphorus onto limestone was not affected by 100 mM KCl or by the nitrogen present in a commercial fertilizer, but it was hindered by 100 mM NaCl, urea and river water. The phosphorus removed was however never below ∼9 mg P/kg rock, and it increased with increasing phosphorus concentrations in water. Phosphorus removal increased with 100 mM CaCl2 at neutral pH, likely due to its precipitation. Mixing for 30 s enhanced phosphorus sorption. Desorption of phosphorus from limestone following sorption in deionized water was ∼50%, ∼22%, and ∼11% at pH = 4, pH = 7, and pH = 11, respectively. Phosphorus desorption was lower when sorption had occurred in river water than in deionized water or in 100 mM urea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis A virus (HAV), an enigmatic and ancient pathogen, is a major causative agent of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. Although there are effective vaccines, antivirals against HAV infection are still required, especially during fulminant hepatitis outbreaks. A more in-depth understanding of the antigenic characteristics of HAV and the mechanisms of neutralization could aid in the development of rationally designed antiviral drugs targeting HAV. In this paper, 4 new antibodies—F4, F6, F7, and F9—are reported that potently neutralize HAV at 50% neutralizing concentration values (neut50) ranging from 0.1 nM to 0.85 nM. High-resolution cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of HAV bound to F4, F6, F7, and F9, together with results of our previous studies on R10 fragment of antigen binding (Fab)-HAV complex, shed light on the locations and nature of the epitopes recognized by the 5 neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (NAbs). All the epitopes locate within the same patch and are highly conserved. The key structure-activity correlates based on the antigenic sites have been established. Based on the structural data of the single conserved antigenic site and key structure-activity correlates, one promising drug candidate named golvatinib was identified by in silico docking studies. Cell-based antiviral assays confirmed that golvatinib is capable of blocking HAV infection effectively with a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of approximately 1 μM. These results suggest that the single conserved antigenic site from complete HAV capsid is a good antiviral target and that golvatinib could function as a lead compound for anti-HAV drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sudden emission and casualty accidents caused by abnormal enrichment of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in coal mines are becoming frequent increasingly, causing major casualties and environmental pollution. Scholars in various countries have developed various measuring devices for hydrogen sulfide content in coal and rock formations and their calculation methods. The existing prevention and control technologies of H2S in coal mines were summarized in various countries. According to the distribution characteristics, occurrence modes, and emission forms of H2S in coal mines, the prevention and control technologies of H2S in coal-bearing strata, airflow in tunnel, and underground water body are mainly introduced. Analyzed the effects of different ventilation systems on prevention and control of H2S, which include conventional ventilation system, partial homotropal ventilation system, and full homotropal ventilation system. The methods used mainly include neutralization by injecting alkalizer through drilling in coal seams with high pressure, spraying alkalizer in tunnel, attenuation by increasing wind amount, changing the ventilation method, pumping, dredging, and blocking the water that contains H2S as well as comprehensive prevention and control method. The basic agents adopted mainly include sodium carbonate (the mass percentage concentration is about 0.5% ~ 3.0%) and sodium bicarbonate solution, and some basic solution is added by an additive, such as surfactant, Fenton reagent, sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate, sodium hypochlorite, or chloramine-T. The treatment effect and the main problems of each prevention and control technology are analyzed, and a comprehensive method of prevention and control techniques of H2S in coal mines is proposed. According to current technological level as well as the cost, the effective prevention and control techniques of H2S should take the occurrence, distribution, and emission forms of H2S in coal mines as well as the content into consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rate coefficients for 13 806 partial inelastic processes in low-energy Fe+ + H and Fe2+ + H− collisions are calculated by means of a quantum simplified model including 118 quintet molecular states of FeH+: 117 covalent and ground ionic states. The calculations are performed within the 5Σ+, 5Π and 5Δ molecular symmetries. The largest rate coefficient, with a value of 7.47 × 10−8 cm3 s−1 at T  = 6000 K, corresponds to a neutralization process. In addition, 57 partial neutralization processes have rates exceeding a value of 10−8 cm3 s−1 and many processes have rates in the range 10−9−10−8 cm3 s−1. Among (de-)excitation processes, the largest rate coefficient has a value of 5.66 × 10−9 cm3 s−1. Nevertheless, there are many partial (de-)excitation processes with rate coefficients in the range 10−9−10−8 cm3 s−1. Collisional processes with large-valued rates are expected to be important in astrophysical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study deals with the covalorization of spent bleaching clay (SBC) and palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD), the by‐products of palm oil‐refining plants (3 Mt. year−1), through soap manufacture. Obtained SBC and PFAD samples show differing acidity and saponification values depending on their content of free fatty acids and of acylglycerols. The SBC sample had an acidity of 60.5% and a saponification value of 182 mg KOH g−1 of oil, and the PFAD sample has an acidity of 88.4% and a saponification value of 204 mg KOH g−1 of oil. Soaps are prepared using the stoichiometric amount of NaOH, under varying proportion of water introduced through the basic solution. The overall reaction (neutralization and saponification) is complete (99.9%) with PFAD, whereas the yield reaches only 56.1% with SBC. When mixing SBC and PFAD, for example under a 1:1 weight ratio, the overall reaction completion (87.7%) is surprisingly higher than expected based on the computed individual reaction yields (78%), showing a synergistic effect of about 10% on the course of the saponification reaction of acylglycerols in SBC. The water content was found to be a critical parameter, 30% w/w of added water providing the highest yield. These results show an innovative way for covalorizing two important by‐products of palm oil industrial processing as a single final product. By‐products of the physical refining of other oils could also be valorized following the same method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Conditioning is essential for achieving effective sludge dewatering and easier disposal. In this study, a combined pretreatment of acidification and oxidation using potassium permanganate (KMnO 4) as oxidant was conducted to improve the effect of a cationic starch-based flocculant (St-WH) on the dewaterability of sewage sludge. Synergetic dewatering mechanisms by acidification, oxidation, and flocculation are discussed in detail according to the analysis of the changes in bound water content, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) fractions and components, zeta potentials, floc size, and surface microstructures of sludge cakes in the dewatering process. Acidification and oxidation could destroy the sludge flocs, thereby causing the degradation of EPS and formation of fine particles. Original loosely and tightly bound EPS partially converted to soluble EPS, resulting in release of trapped water, which can be reflected by the significant correlation between loosely bound EPS and filter cake moisture content (FCMC) (R s = 0.83, P < 0.05). Those fine particles, simultaneously produced, were adverse to filtration efficiency. In addition to enhancing the oxidation effect of KMnO 4 , acidification treatment could still compress the protein-like materials in soluble EPS due to protonation effect, which was positively related to specific resistance to filtration (SRF) (R s = 0.74, P < 0.05). The following flocculation using St-WH efficiently aggregated those fine particles and restrained the released EPS to bind with free water through charge neutralization and bridging effects, thereby resulting in improved filtration performance and enhanced removal of bound water (R s = 0.88, P < 0.01). Response surface methodology was also applied to achieve an optimal condition and evaluate the effects of various environmental factors. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • The starch-based flocculant used as a green sludge conditioner was promising. • Acidification and oxidation enhanced the flocculation effect on sludge dewaterability. • Moisture content dropped below 80% under an optimal condition achieved by RSM method. • Change in bound water, EPS fractions and components, and sludge structure was studied. • Synergetic dewatering mechanisms were evaluated in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human astroviruses (HAstVs) cause severe diarrhea and represent an important health problem in children under two years of age. Despite their medical importance, the study of these pathogens has been neglected. To better understand the astrovirus antigenic structure and the basis of protective immunity, in this work we produced a panel of neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (Nt-MAbs) to HAstV serotypes 1, 2, and 8, and identified the mutations that allow the viruses to escape neutralization. We first tested the capacity of the recombinant HAstV capsid core and spike domains to elicit Nt-Ab. Hyperimmunization of animals with the two domains showed that although both induced a potent immune response, only the spike was able to elicit antibodies with neutralizing activity. Based on this finding, we used a mixture of the recombinant spike domains belonging to the three HAstV serotypes to immunize mice. Five Nt-MAbs were isolated and characterized; all of them were serotype-specific, two were directed to HAstV-1, one to HAstV-2, and two to HAstV-8. These antibodies were used to select single and double neutralization-escape variant viruses, and determination of the amino acid changes that allow the viruses to escape neutralization permitted us to define the existence of four potentially independent neutralization epitopes on the HAstV capsid. These studies provide the basis for development of subunit vaccines that induce neutralizing antibodies, and tools to explore the possibility to develop a specific antibody therapy for astrovirus disease. Our results also establish a platform to advance our knowledge on HAstV cell binding and entry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HIV-1 Env protein functions in the entry process and is the target of neutralizing antibodies. Its intrinsically high mutation rate is certainly one of driving forces for persistence/survival in hosts. For optimal replication in various environments, HIV-1 Env must continue to adapt and evolve through balancing sometimes incompatible function, replication fitness, and neutralization sensitivity. We have previously reported that adapted viruses emerge in repeated and prolonged cultures of cells originally infected with a macaque-tropic HIV-1NL4-3 derivative. We have also shown that the adapted viral clones exhibit enhanced growth potentials both in macaque PBMCs and individuals, and that three single-amino acid mutations are present in their Env V1/C2/C4 domains. In this study, we investigated how lab-adapted and highly neutralization-sensitive HIV-1NL4-3 adapts its Env to macaque cells with strongly replication-restrictive nature for HIV-1. While a single and two mutations gave a significantly enhanced replication phenotype in a macaque cell line and also in human cell lines that stably express either human CD4 or macaque CD4, the virus simultaneously carrying the three adaptive mutations always grew best. Entry kinetics of parental and triple mutant viruses were similar, whereas the mutant was significantly more readily inhibited for its infectivity by soluble CD4 than parental virus. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations of the Env ectodomain (gp120 and gp41 ectodomain) bound with CD4 suggest that the three mutations increase binding affinity of Env for CD4 in solution. Thus, it is quite likely that the affinity for CD4 of the mutant Env is enhanced relative to the parental Env. Neutralization sensitivity of the triple mutant to CD4 binding site antibodies was not significantly different from that of parental virus, whereas the mutant exhibited a considerably higher resistance against neutralization by a CD4-induced epitope antibody and Env trimer-targeting V1/V2 antibodies. These results suggest that the three adaptive mutations cooperatively promote viral growth via increased CD4 affinity, and also that they enhance viral resistance to several neutralization antibodies by changing the Env-trimer conformation. In total, we have verified here an HIV-1 adaptation pathway in host cells and individuals involving Env derived from a lab-adapted and highly neutralization-sensitive clone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract Flocculation experiments were performed in a Taylor-Couette reactor in turbulent conditions characterized by the mean shear rate. A sequenced hydrodynamic protocol was applied which consists in low and high shear rates steps allowing to promote respectively aggregation and breakage processes. The particle size distribution and the 3D fractal dimension were determined on line by laser diffraction while morphological parameters were characterized off line using an automated microscope coupled with image processing. After a first aggregation-breakage cycle, the flocs formed by charge neutralization have smaller sizes than during the first aggregation step when the main aggregation mechanism is the charge neutralization whereas coarser but more resistant aggregates can be produced by bridging mechanism. During the flocculation process, high shear rates calibrate the flocs, creating small flocs having a size close to the Kolmogorov microscale. These small flocs serve as bricks to form larger flocs when lower shear rates are applied and a full reproducibility is observed after one or two cycles of the sequence depending on the aggregation mechanism. A clear correspondence was put in evidence between the shear rate conditions and the volume base mean size or fractal dimension of flocs. The morphological fractal dimension, as well as the fractal dimension derived from laser measurements, are in good agreement with the mean trend of the morphological data but cannot represent the whole diversity of floc sizes and shapes. The 3D surface base area and perimeter distributions appear as a promising tool allowing a deeper analysis of the impact of physico-chemical and shear conditions on aggregate properties during a flocculation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present experimental evidence that reactions of argon cations Ar+ with the halogen anions Br- and I- do not occur exclusively by mutual neutralization, but also produce the cations Br+ or I+ ions by transfer ionization (TI). The experiments were carried out in flowing-afterglow plasmas at gas temperatures between and 300 and 500 K, and employed a variant of the Variable Electron and Neutral Density Attachment Mass Spectrometry method. The measured TI rate coefficients are 1.9 ± 0.6 × 10-9 cm3 s-1 and 1.1 ± 0.30.8 × 10-9 cm3 s-1 for the Br- and I- reactions, respectively. We find that the TI rate coefficients decline with temperature as T-0.5 to T-1. No indication of TI was found in the reaction with Cl-, where it is endoergic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • In-situ grafting-neutralization reaction is introduced into SBR/FA/SA composites. • An immobilized rubber layer is formed on the surface of FA particles. • Great enhancement is observed in mechanical properties of SBR/FA/SA composites. • It is the first time to use of FA in rubber composites on a large scale. Abstract A growing increase in fly ash (FA) becomes a serious problem for environmental protection. In order to alleviate this problem, many people have tried to use FA to prepare polymer composites. However, due to the lack of hydroxyl groups on the surface of FA, the conventional surface treatment method for FA, such as silane or titanate coupling agent modification, is unacceptable and application of FA in the polymer industry is still a huge challenge. In this work, in-situ grafting-neutralization reaction takes place within styrene butadiene rubber/FA/sorbic acid (SBR/FA/SA) composites during the vulcanization process. Experimental data show an immobilized rubber layer is established on the surface of FA, which originates from strong interactions among SBR, FA and SA. As a consequence, the tensile strength of SBR/FA/15SA composite is about 215% higher than that of SBR/FA composite, along with larger elongation at break and modulus, which suggests stronger reinforcing effect of FA/SA for SBR composites and opens a new road to use FA in the polymer industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whey proteins have many nutritional and beneficial therapeutic properties, which are indispensable for the functional and nutritional properties of foods. The aim of the study was to neutralize whey by addition of NaOH (0.1 and 0.01N) and NaHCO3 (0.1 and 0.01N) for fortification and enrichment of foods. However, addition of these solutions results in an increase in total solids and ash content of the whey sample The samples were normal whey (not treated), neutralized whey (neutralized with NaOH) and neutralized whey (neutralized with NaHCO3). Whey was pasteurized at 720C for 15 second followed by neutralization. All the samples were analyzed physico chemically (pH, %acidity, %moisture, crude protein) and organoleptically (color, taste, texture and overall acceptability) with an interval of one week for storage period of one month. The treatments were T0 (not treated), T1 (neutralized with NaOH) and T2 (neutralized with NaHCO3). Statistical analysis showed that storage intervals and treatments had a significant (p<0.05) effect on physicochemical and sensory quality of neutralized whey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aim of this study is to evaluate the formation of the increase of Δ-7-stigmastenol during the chemical refining of pomace olive oil (POO) and the optimal neutralization by NaOH concentration of 20 °Be at a temperature of 70 °C. A comparison has been made between virgin olive oil (VOO) and consecutive steps of refining process in the amounts of Δ-7-stigmastenol of the POO oil samples. Among the oils, refined olive oil particularly the neutralized olive oil (NOO) by soda (NaOH) contained a high-level of Δ-7-stigmastenol. A mean result found in NOO by different concentration of NaOH from 15 to 25 °Be showed increased values significantly (p < 0.05) from 0.70 ± 0.01% to 0.78 ± 0.01% of Δ-7-stigmastenol and increased significantly (p < 0.05) the levels of erythrodiol and uvaol from 26.34 ± 0.39% to 28.11 ± 0.42%. Then, the concentration of the ∆-7-stigmastenol was evaluated using a GC-MS instrument. Besides, further analyses were performed to ensure the uniqueness of the peak of Δ-7-stigmastenol and absence of any overlap. In all cases, the level of Δ-7-stigmastenol was higher than the limit set by the International Olive Council.Graphical abstract: [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Neutralisation of acid drainage creates metal-rich precipitates that may impact receiving water bodies. This study assessed the fate of over seven years of acid drainage discharges on the sediments of the lower River Murray (Australia), including the potential for periodic water anoxia to enhance risk via reductive dissolution of amorphous (Fe, Mn and co-precipitated and bound metal) oxide phases. With the exception of one site with restricted water exchange, elevated reducible/reactive metal(oid) (Fe, Ni, As, Co, Zn) concentrations were only observed in the localised wetland-riparian area within approximately 100 m of the discharges. Only a minor exceedance of national sediment quality guideline values occurred for Ni. In the main river channel, elevated reactive metal (Fe, Mn, Ni, Zn) concentrations were also only observed less than approximately 100 m from the drainage discharge point. This appears due to (a) rapid neutralisation of pH leading to metal precipitation and deposition in the localised discharge area, and/or (b) dilution of any metal precipitates entering the main channel with natural river sediments, and/or (c) flushing of precipitates downstream during higher flow conditions. The influence of deoxygenation on metal release was profound with large increases in the concentration of dissolved Fe, Mn, Zn, Ni, and As in the overlying water during laboratory experimental simulations. However, given in situ sediment metal contamination is very localised, it appears on a river reach scale that the acid drainage precipitates will not significantly contribute, over and above, the background release of these metals during these conditions. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Neutralisation of acid drainage produces metal-rich oxide precipitates. • The fate of these in a river system under oxic and anoxic conditions was assessed. • Contamination was observed in a localised area near the drainage discharge. • Ratios of reactive to total recoverable metal were elevated in this zone. • Deoxygenation of overlying surface water enhanced metal release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efforts to cure human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection are obstructed by reservoirs of latently infected CD4+ T cells that can reestablish viremia. HIVspecific broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs), defined by unusually wide neutralization breadths against globally diverse viruses, may contribute to the elimination of these reservoirs by binding to reactivated cells, thus targeting them for immune clearance. However, the relationship between neutralization of reservoir isolates and binding to corresponding infected primary CD4+ T cells has not been determined. Thus, the extent to which neutralization breadths and potencies can be used to infer the corresponding parameters of infected cell binding is currently unknown. We assessed the breadths and potencies of bNAbs against 36 viruses reactivated from peripheral blood CD4+ T cells from antiretroviral (ARV)-treated HIV-infected individuals by using paired neutralization and infected cell binding assays. Single-antibody breadths ranged from 0 to 64% for neutralization (80% inhibitory concentration [IC80] of ≼10 µg/ml) and from 0 to 89% for binding, with two-antibody combinations (results for antibody combinations are theoretical/predicted) reaching levels of 0 to 83% and 50 to 100%, respectively. Infected cell binding correlated with virus neutralization for 10 of 14 antibodies (e.g., for 3BNC117, r=0.82 and P<0.0001). Heterogeneity was observed, however, with a lack of significant correlation for 2G12, CAP256.VRC26.25, 2F5, and 4E10. Our results provide guidance on the selection of bNAbs for interventional cure studies, both by providing a direct assessment of intra- and interindividual variabilities in neutralization and infected cell binding in a novel cohort and by defining the relationships between these parameters for a panel of bNAbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The four serotypes of dengue virus (DENV) cause the most important mosquito-borne viral disease in humans. The envelope (E) protein is the major target of neutralizing antibodies and contains 3 domains (domain I [DI], DII, and DIII). Recent studies reported that human monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) recognizing DIII, the D1/DII hinge, the E-dimer epitope, or a quaternary epitope involving DI/DII/DIII are more potently neutralizing than those recognizing the fusion loop (FL) of DII. Due to inefficient cleavage of the premembrane protein, DENV suspensions consist of a mixture of mature, immature, and partially immature particles. We investigated the neutralization and binding of 22 human MAbs to DENV serotype 1 (DENV1) virions with differential maturation status. Compared with FL MAbs, DIII, DI/DII hinge, and E-dimer epitope MAbs showed higher maximum binding and avidity to mature particles relative to immature particles; this feature may contribute to the strong neutralizing potency of such MAbs. FL-specific MAbs required 57 to 87% occupancy on mature particles to achieve half-maximal neutralization (NT50), whereas the potently neutralizing MAbs achieved NT50 states at 20 to 38% occupancy. Analysis of the MAb repertoire and polyclonal sera from patients with primary DENV1 infection supports the immunodominance of cross-reactive anti-E antibodies over type-specific antibodies. After depletion with viral particles from a heterologous DENV serotype, the type-specific neutralizing antibodies remained and showed binding features shared by potent neutralizing MAbs. Taken together, these findings suggest that the use of homogeneous mature DENV particles as an immunogen may induce more potent neutralizing antibodies against DENV than the use of immature or mixed particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel structure of two interlaced antenna arrays for MIMO applications is presented. It consists of two 2 × 1 triangular patch array antennas, which have all elements separated by a short distance among them (0.22λ0), where mutual coupling can be very poor (S21 = -7.81 dB). To overcome such weakness, a simple and efficient method is used: one neutralization line (NL) is introduced to increase the decoupling between both ports, reaching up to -29 dB at the central frequency, and below -20 dB over a large bandwidth. The whole MIMO antenna array has dimensions of 1.56λ0 × 0.3λ0 and has a gain of 9.11 dBi. Its diversity parameters describe it as a useful radiator for MIMO communications systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Zika virus (ZIKV) is an emerging pathogen with no approved therapeutics and only limited diagnostics available. To address this gap, six mouse single-chain antibodies (scFvs) to ZIKV envelope (E) protein were isolated rapidly and efficiently from a ribosome-displayed antibody library constructed from the spleens of five immunized mice. Methodology/Results: In this report, we have generated a panel of mouse scFvs to ZIKV E protein using ribosome display. The six scFvs demonstrated no cross-reactivity with DENV2 NGC envelope protein, suggesting specificity for ZIKV E protein. These scFvs showed differences in their affinity: two (scFv45-3, scFv63-1) of them were dominant after four rounds of panning, and showed higher affinity (an apparent Kd values from 19 to 27 nM) than the other four (scFv5-1, scFv7-2, scFv38-1, and scFv51-2). All six scFvs showed ZIKV-neutralizing activity in the plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT) assay and their neutralizing activity was positively correlated with their affinities. Conclusions/Significance: The scFvs (45–3 and 63–1) with highest affinity may have dual utility as diagnostics capable of recognizing ZIKV E subtypes and may be further developed to treat ZIKV infection. Our approach has the added advantage of generating Fc receptor-deficient antibodies, minimizing concern of antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this paper, the lysozyme (LSZ) adsorption impact on the silica suspension stability was established. In other words, the stabilization/destabilization mechanism of the SiO 2 /LSZ system was explained based on the adsorption, electrokinetic and stability measurement results. Lysozyme adsorbs on the silica surface in the whole pH range. This process contributes to the changes in silica surface charge and zeta potential values. The lysozyme addition influences the system stability too. At pH 7.6 and 9, a large decrease in the silica suspension stability was found. It is connected with the neutralization of solid negative charge by the positively charged macromolecules. As a result, large aggregates can be formed, which is highly desirable in the silica removal procedure. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • Lysozyme (LSZ) adsorption is possible in the pH range from 3 to 9. • LSZ adsorption changes the silica surface charge and zeta potential. • In the LSZ presence, a large drop in the system stability was noticed at pH 7.6 and 9. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (heart attacks and strokes) is the major cause of death globally and is caused by the buildup of a plaque in the arterial wall. Genomic data showed that the B cell-activating factor (BAFF) receptor pathway, which is specifically essential for the survival of conventional B lymphocytes (B-2 cells), is a key driver of coronary heart disease. Deletion or antibody-mediated blockade of BAFF receptor ablates B-2 cells and decreases experimental atherosclerosis. Anti-BAFF immunotherapy is approved for treatment of autoimmune systemic lupus erythematosus, and can therefore be expected to limit their associated cardiovascular risk. However, direct effects of anti-BAFF immunotherapy on atherosclerosis remain unknown.Methods: To investigate the effect of BAFF neutralization in atherosclerosis, the authors treated Apoe-/- and Ldlr-/- mice with a well-characterized blocking anti-BAFF antibody. Moreover, to investigate the mechanism by which BAFF impacts atherosclerosis, the authors studied atherosclerosis-prone mice that lack the alternative receptor for BAFF: transmembrane activator and calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor.Results: The authors demonstrate here that anti-BAFF antibody treatment increased atherosclerosis in mice, despite efficient depletion of mature B-2 cells, suggesting a unique mechanism of action. Indeed, myeloid cell-specific deletion of transmembrane activator and calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor also results in increased atherosclerosis, while B cell-specific transmembrane activator and calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor deletion had no effect. Mechanistically, BAFF-transmembrane activator and calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor signaling represses macrophage IRF7-dependent (but not NF-κB-dependent) Toll-like receptor 9 responses including proatherogenic CXCL10 production.Conclusions: These data identify a novel B cell-independent anti-inflammatory role for BAFF in atherosclerosis and may have important clinical implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study highlights a novel method for the production of bioalcohols, like 1-butanol, from organic waste-derived volatile fatty acids (VFAs) via non-biological pathways. A strategic two-step process was conducted to afford the bioalcohols. The process consists of esterification of VFAs to form VFA methyl esters (VFAMEs) followed by hydrogenation to bioalcohols. In the first step, carbon nanotubes was determined to be an effective carbon material to convert VFA to VFAME with high yields (>90%). In the second step, various metals (Pt, Pd, Rh, Ru, Ni, Co, and Cu) were tested and the inexpensive cobalt was the most active metal for hydrogenation of VFAMEs to their corresponding alcohols. The final yield of 1-butanol via the two-step process was 19 wt.%, which is comparable to that of conventional fermentation processes. Given the massive generation of organic waste, the two-step process to produce biobutanol has excellent potential for being developed in large scale. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • C 4 -C 5 bioalcohols are produced from volatile fatty acids (VFAs). • Carbon nanotubes and cobalt catalysts are used to produce C 4 -C 5 bioalcohols. • Inexpensive cobalt catalyst can be effective for hydrogenation of methyl esters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been implicated in the development and progression of hematological malignancies. We thus examined serum samples from patients with systemic mastocytosis (SM) and found EVs with a mast cell signature including the presence of tryptase, FceRI, MRGX2, and KIT. The concentration of these EVs correlated with parameters of disease including levels of serum tryptase, IL-6, and alkaline phosphatase and physical findings including hepatosplenomegaly. Given reports that EVs from one cell type may influence another cell's behavior, we asked whether SM-EVs might affect hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), based on the abnormal liver pathology associated with mastocytosis. We found that KIT was transferred from SM-EVs into an HSC line eliciting proliferation, cytokine production, and differentiation, processes that have been associated with liver pathology. These effects were reduced by KIT inhibition or neutralization and recapitulated by enforced expression of KIT or constitutively active D816V-KIT, a gain-of-function variant associated with SM. Furthermore, HSCs in liver from mice injected with SM-EVs had increased expression of α-SMA and human KIT, particularly around portal areas, compared with mice injected with EVs from normal individuals, suggesting that SM-EVs can also initiate HSC activation in vivo. Our data are thus consistent with the conclusion that SMEVs have the potential to influence cells outside the hematological compartment and that therapeutic approaches for treatment of SM may be effective in part through inhibition of effects of EVs on target tissues, findings important both to understanding complex disease pathology and in developing interventional agents for the treatment of hematologic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The long-term operations of the EAST experiments result in a substantial redeposition of impurities on the first wall, which is considered as the potential impurity source during the discharge. The transport properties of lithium impurity in the scrape-off layer (SOL) of EAST have been studied by the three-dimensional (3D) edge transport code, the EMC3-EIRENE. The neutral lithium impurities from four impurity source positions on the first wall have been used in the modelling. The detailed analysis of the relationship between the impurity source positions and the density profiles of the lithium impurity for different charge states has been carried out. It is found that the density profiles of the Li1+ ions are determined by the impurity source positions, whereas the density profiles of the Li2+ and Li3+ ions are not related to the first wall source positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the objective of evaluating the potential effects of sodium bicarbonate or a magnesium-based product on rumen pH and milk performance of dairy cattle exposed to a dietary challenge, 30 lactating Holstein cows (648 ± 67 kg of body weight; 44.4 ± 9.9 kg/d of milk yield; 155 ± 75 d in milk) were blocked by parity (9 primiparous and 21 multiparous) and randomly distributed to 3 treatment groups. One group received a total mixed ration (TMR) that acted as a control (CTR), a second group (SB) received the same TMR but with an additional supplementation of 0.8% of sodium bicarbonate, and a third group (MG) received the same TMR as CTR but an additional supplementation of 0.4% of a magnesium-based product (pHix-Up, Timab, Dinard, France). After 1 wk of exposure to this TMR, all 3 rations were supplemented with 1 kg/d of barley, which was then increased 1 kg/wk until reaching 3 kg/d of barley during wk 4 of the study. Every kilogram of barley replaced 1 kg of forage in the diet. Individual feed intake and behavior were monitored using electronic feed bins. Seven cows per treatment were equipped with an intraruminal bolus that recorded pH every 15 min. As the severity of the barley challenge increased, dry matter intake decreased, but this decrease was more pronounced in SB cows than in MG cows, with an intermediate response for CTR cows. The MG cows produced more milk when challenged with 2 or 3 kg/d of additional barley than when challenged with 1 kg/d, whereas CTR cows produced less milk with the 3 kg/d challenge compared with 1 or 2 kg/d, and the SB cows maintained milk production. Milk fat content decreased with barley challenges, with CTR cows experiencing a more severe decrease than SB cows, which maintained stable butterfat values throughout the study, and MG cows showed a decline in milk fat content only with the 3 kg/d of additional barley. Meal size was also reduced as the severity of barley challenge increased, and this reduction was more modest in MG cows than in SB cows. The number of daily meals consumed by SB and MG cows was more constant than that recorded in CTR cows. Cows on the CTR and SB treatments showed a marked decrease in rumen pH with the 3 kg/d of additional barley, whereas MG cows maintained stable rumen pH during the barley challenges and had greater average rumen pH (5.93 ± 0.04) than CTR cows (5.83 ± 0.04) with the 3 kg/d of additional barley; SB cows showed intermediate values (5.85 ± 0.04). Last, MG cows spent less time (32.3 ± 6.1%) with rumen pH =5.8 when exposed to the 3 kg/d of barley challenge than CTR and SB cows (50.7 ± 5.02%). In conclusion, supplementation with MG prevents the decline in dry matter intake and milk production induced by a rumen challenge, whereas supplementation with SB prevents the decay in milk production but does not prevent the decrease in feed intake. These changes were probably due to the ability of the MG treatment to prevent a reduction in rumen pH when challenging cows with 3 kg/d of additional barley in the ration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meloxicam (MLX) is efficient in relieving pain and inflammatory symptoms, which, however, is limited by the poor solubility and gastrointestinal side effects. The objective of this study is to develop a nanocrystal formulation to enhance transdermal delivery of MLX. MLX nanocrystals were successfully prepared by the nanoprecipitation technique based on acidbase neutralization. With poloxamer 407 and Tween 80 (80/20, w/w) as mixed stabilizers, MLX nanocrystals with particle size of 175 nm were obtained. The crystalline structure of MLX nanocrystals was confirmed by both differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray powder diffractometry. However, the nanoprecipitation process reduced the crystallinity of MLX. Nanocrystals increased both in vitro and in vivo transdermal permeation of MLX compared with the solution and suspension counterparts. Due to the enhanced apparent solubility and dissolution as well as the facilitated hair follicular penetration, nanocrystals present a high and prolonged plasma MLX concentration. And 2.58- and 4.4-fold increase in AUC 0 → 24h was achieved by nanocrystals comparing with solution and suspension, respectively. In conclusion, nanocrystal is advantageous for transdermal delivery of MLX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A series of multifunctional terpolymers, poly(N -isopropyl acrylamide/2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl trimethyl ammonium chloride/ N - tert -butylacrylamide) [P(NIPAM-MATMAC-BAAM)], were designed to flocculate and dewater oil sands mature fine tailings (MFT). The hydrophobic BAAM comonomer helped in expelling water from the sediments, while the cationic MATMAC comonomer promoted the charge neutralization of negatively charged particles suspended in MFT. The chemical composition distributions of these terpolymers were designed based on the knowledge of the reactivity ratios of all comonomers, instead of by trial and error, as usually done for most polymer flocculants. The binary reactivity ratios of the comonomers were estimated by synthesizing the binary copolymers with various mole fractions of each comonomer in the feed and experimentally measuring the corresponding fraction of comonomer in the copolymers. Polymer reaction engineering tools were used to minimize compositional drift and guarantee the synthesis of terpolymers with narrow chemical composition distributions suitable for MFT dewatering. Focused beam reflectance measurement (FBRM) experiments showed that terpolymers promoted the formation of large MFT flocs (120 μm). The initial settling rate decreased with the increase in flocculant hydrophobicity, likely because the hydrophobic terpolymer segments did not take part in the bridging of the MFT particles. In contrast, the sediment dewaterability increased with the increase in terpolymer hydrophobicity. This study provides guidelines to design a polymer flocculant from first principles and demonstrates the potential of using hydrophobically modified cationic polymers to flocculate MFT effectively. Highlights • Binary reactivity ratios of copolymers can predict the composition of terpolymers. • Cationicity of the terpolymer increases the settling rate and supernatant clarity. • Hydrophobically modified terpolymer effectively dewatered mature fine tailings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]