Abstract: A mutant transgenic mouse and cell line derived from the mouse are disclosed. The mutant transgenic mouse was developed from a cross between a mutant mouse which carries mutant genes that express a phenotype similar to human Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome, and a mouse strain containing a transgene encoding a temperature sensitive protein that is inactive at physiological temperatures. The resulting mutant mouse is characterized by the presence of the HPS mutations as well as the transgene. The mutant mouse and cell lines derived from the lung tissue of the mouse are useful models for lung pathology associated with human HPS, lung fibrosis and inflammation. Methods and assays utilizing the cell lines also are disclosed.

Abstract: A battery is provided comprising an aluminum anode, an aqueous sulfur catholyte, and a second electrode capable of reducing sulfur. A polysulfide cathode (for use with the above battery or independently) includes solid sulfur at ambient temperatures, and the cathodic charge stored in that solid sulfur can be directly accessed. An anode (for use with the above battery or independently) is also described, with the ability to utilize a substantial fraction of the anodic charge stored in the aluminum when immersed in electrolytes containing over 10 molar alkaline hydroxide.

Abstract: A sulfur/aluminum battery in which an aluminum anode and an aqueous alkaline/polysulfide electrolytic solution are in direct contact. At high polysulfide concentrations, parasitic chemical reactions between the aluminum and sulfur are minimized, allowing for efficient oxidation of the aluminum anode, and resulting in a battery having high energy and power densities.

Abstract: A battery is provided comprising an aluminum anode, an aqueous sulfur catholyte, and a second electrode capable of reducing sulfur. A polysulfide cathode (for use with the above battery or independently) includes solid sulfur at ambient temperatures, and the cathodic charge stored in that solid sulfur can be directly accessed. An anode (for use with the above battery or independently) is also described, with the ability to utilize a substantial fraction of the anodic charge stored in the aluminum when immersed in electrolytes containing over 10 molar alkaline hydroxide.