GFAP analysis in aluminium chloride-treated rat brain regions

The neurotoxicity of aluminium chloride was assessed in maleWistar albino rats. Rats were treated with aluminium chloride dissolved in distilled water at a dose of 300 mg/kg body weight daily by oral gavage (1 ml) for 45 days. Controls were treated with distilled water only. Animals were sacrificed and different brain regions were dissected. GFAP analysis was carried out by Western blotting using mouse anti-GFAP monoclonal antibody (Pharmingen: 60311D) at 1:1000. Blots were developed with HRP-linked goat anti-mouse secondary antibody and quantified by densitometry.

Microanalysis of quenched and self-extinguished aluminium rods burned in oxygen

Promoted ignition tests and quench tests have been conducted and analysed for 3.2 mm aluminum rods in 99.995% oxygen. Tests have been conducted in oxygen pressures varying from 538 kPa to 773 kPa. Samples that self-extinguished or were quenched were selected for further analysis. The microstructure of the selected samples were analysed by electron microscopy, using energy dispersive spectrometry and electron back-scatter techniques, to identify and visualize, respectively, the species present. The grain structures of these samples were etched, viewed and photographed under polarized light by an optical microscope. From the micrographs produced by the post-test analysis, clearly defined boundaries between the oxide and the melted and resolidified metal have been observed. In both the melted and resolidified metal and the oxide layer, significant numbers of gas bubbles, solid inclusions and several diffuse oxide bubbles have been captured during the cooling process. It is concluded that convective movement is occurring within the molten drop and that analysis of quenched samples provides more useful information on the state of the burning droplet than samples allowed to cool slowly to room temperature. Recommendations are made regarding future investigations into aluminum burning, focusing on the transport of reactants through the liquid oxide layer.