Search

The comparison between natural and synthetic composites based on molybdate for the sorption and separation of Gd(III) from Eu(III) and Y(III) was studied. Calcium magnesium molybdate (CaMgMo) and dolomite molybdate (dolomite-Mo) composites have been prepared using the co-precipitation technique and characterised using different analytical tools such as XRD, ATR, SEM, TGA and DTA. The sorption studies applied on Gd(III), Eu(III) and Y(III) by batch technique include the effect of shaking time and pH on sorption efficiency. The data reveal that CaMgMo has higher sorption efficiency than the dolomite-Mo composite at all times and pH values. The distribution coefficients at different pHs have order: Gd(III)>>Eu(III)>Y(III) on both prepared composites. The saturation capacity of two prepared composites towards studied cations has sequence order; Gd(III) >> Eu(III) > Y(III). Reaction kinetics obeys the pseudo-2nd-order model. Binary and tertiary systems data confirm that the CaMgMo composite has high separation factors for Gd(III) at different pHs. The real sample applications prove that CaMgMo and dolomite-Mo are excellent composites for the capture of Gd(III) and Y(III) from high-grade monazite (HGM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to synthesize new disperse dyes based on novel pyrazolyl quinolinone derivatives EQ1 and EQ2 and evaluate their characteristics after dyeing them on a polyester fabric. Design/methodology/approach: New dispersed dyes based on pyrazolyl quinolinone derivatives were prepared and confirmed by different analyses, such as infrared spectroscopy, elemental microanalysis and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. They were dyed on a polyester fabric. The characteristics of dyed polyester were determined by color measurements such as a*, b*, L*, C*, E, Ho, R% and color strength. The electronic structures of EQ1 and EQ2 in gaseous state were investigated using density functional theory/B3LYP/6-311++G (d, p) level of theory. Findings: The suitability of the prepared dyestuffs for dyeing on polyester fabrics has been investigated. The study was concerned with comparing the contrasting depth of shade and levelness. The study was concerned mainly with dye uptake and color measurements at two different temperatures. The results showed that the exhaustion values of dyes inside the polyester at 130°C were higher than those obtained at conventional dyeing temperature (100°C). The exhaustion values of EQ2 were greater than those of EQ1 at 130°C with 2.2%, while the brightness of EQ2 was higher than that of EQ1 at the two investigated temperatures. The results of molecular orbital calculations show that the studied compounds are planar. In addition, the ionization potential of EQ1 was lower than that of EQ2. The results of the theoretical study helped in understanding the dyeing behavior of the investigated azo dyes. Originality/value: The prepared disperse dyes based on pyrazolyl quinolinone derivatives could be used in textile dyeing of polyester on an industrial scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we explore the sorption behavior of Zr(IV) ions by lithium titanate (LiTi), magnesium titanate (MgTi), and lithium magnesium titanate (LiMgTi) sorbents. These sorbents, fabricated using the precipitation method, were used for the Zr(IV) sorption from aqueous solutions. We employed various analytical tools, including XRD, FT-IR, BET, SEM, and EDX, to examine the prepared sorbents' structure, morphology, and functional groups. We also studied the effect of pH, time, initial metal concentrations, temperature, and interfering species on sorption. The kinetic data obey pseudo-first-order. Many isotherm models were utilised to investigate equilibrium data. The results of thermodynamic functions show an endothermic and spontaneous sorption process. Finally, the influence of the interfering species reveals that as the concentration of CaCl2, MgCl2, and NaCl increases, the Zr(IV) adsorption rate decreases. The investigation demonstrated that LiMgTi is suitable for retaining Zr(IV) from aqueous solutions and could purify effluent polluted with Zr(IV) ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sorption of certain lanthanides from aqueous solutions is the focus of this work using antimony oxide (Sb2O5) sorbent. Sb2O5 sorbent was prepared using the precipitation technique, and it has been described using several analytical methods such as Fourier-transformed infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The sorption data were collected on Y(III), Ce(III), and Gd(III) including the effects of pH, shaking time, initial metal concentrations, and temperature. The results revealed that saturation capacity has values of (30.6, 27.5, and 24.1 mg/g) for Y(III), Ce(III), and Gd(III), respectively. The sorption of the studied cations is dependent on pH. The reaction kinetics obeyed the pseudo-2nd-order model, and thermodynamics was endothermic and spontaneous. Sorption isotherms are more relevant to a Langmuir isotherm, whose monolayer capacity values are 27.9, 23.2, and 19.8 mg/g for Y(III), Ce(III), and Gd(III), respectively. The real sample applications illustrate the superiority of antimony oxide sorbent in the removal of Y(III), Ce(III), and Gd(III) from high-grade monazite (HGM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorption of Sr(II) and Eu(III) from aqueous solutions was studied using tin molybdate talc sorbent synthesized by the precipitation technique. The synthesized sorbent was characterized using different analytical tools, such as; FT-IR, SEM, XRD, XRF, TGA, and DTA. The sorption studies applied to Sr(II) and Eu(III) include the effects of shaking time, pH, concentrations, and saturation capacity. The sorption of Sr(II) and Eu(III) depends on pH, reaction kinetics obey the pseudo-2nd-order model, and the Langmuir model is better suited for the sorption isotherm. The thermodynamic parameters reflect an endothermic and spontaneous sorption process. Desorption studies showed that 0.1 M HCl was the best desorbing agent for the complete recovery of Sr(II) (96.8%) and Eu(III) (92.9%). Finally, the obtained data illustrates that the synthesized sorbent can be applied and used as an efficient sorbent for the sorption of Sr(II) and Eu(III) from aqueous solutions and can be used as a promising sorbent to remove Sr(II) and Eu(III). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examined reducing the hazardous effects of Sr(II) and Co(II) using a sodium-based purolite C100 cation exchange adsorbent. The sorption behaviour of Sr(II) and Co(II), including the impact of time, pH, initial concentrations, and temperature. The results reveal that purolite C100 has a fast equilibrium time and follows pseudo-2nd-order kinetics. The saturation capacity has high values of 190.5 and 182.1 mg g−1 for Sr(II) and Co(II), respectively. The Langmuir isotherm model is more applicable than other isotherm models. Negative Gibbs energy values demonstrated the excellent feasibility and spontaneity of the sorption process. Positive enthalpy readings indicate that this process was endothermic. Positive entropy values demonstrated that the disorder between the solid and liquid phases was enhanced during adsorption. Desorption of Sr(II) and Co(II) from the loaded purolite C100 was done by KCl (99.2%) and CaCl2 (99.3%), respectively. The recycling results indicated that the purolite C100 should be reused for repeated sorption-desorption regeneration cycles up to 14 cycles, with a low reduction in the uptake percentage. The excellent recycling results reveal the applicability of the purolite C100 to be used as an effective cation exchange adsorbent for the sorption of Sr(II) and Co(II) from aqueous media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is one of the foremost vegetable crops in Iraq and worldwide. Faba bean has also become a traditional food in different parts of the world, with cultivations mainly for their proteinrich pods. Faba beans sustain several fungal pathogen infections, which lead to considerable yield losses. Among these, the leaf spot disease is more prominent and considerably impacts the quality and quantity of faba bean production. In Iraq, the leaf spot disease has emerged as a significant problem in bean fields caused by several pathogens. In the presented work, sizable efforts focused on isolating and identifying fungal pathogens of the leaf spot disease in faba beans at the Basrah Governorate, Iraq. The study might also be the first report on the fungal species Exserohilum rostratum as a true pathogen of faba bean leaf spot disease in Iraq. The morphological and molecular diagnoses identified the pathogen by applying the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene. Searching the sequenced PCR products used the NCBI-BLAST website. The results proved a 99% similarity to the known fungus E. rostratum, with an eventual submission to NCBI under the gene accession number LC769969. The pathogenicity experiment materialized following Koch's hypotheses to confirm the causative agent. The presented findings revealed the potential pathogenicity of this microbe on the aerial parts of the faba bean (V. faba L.) for the first time in Iraq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the separation of Co(II) ions from some fission products using zirconium molybdo silicate (ZrMoSi) sorbent was studied. ZrMoSi sorbent was prepared by the co-precipitation method and characterized using different analytical tools such as FT-IR, SEM, XRF, XRD, TGA, and DTA. ZrMoSi sorbent was found to have the molecular formula ZrO2.MoO3(0.1).SiO2(10.2).4.3 H2O. The sorption behavior of Co(II) involves the effect of shaking time, pH, initial Co(II) concentrations, desorption, and recycling. The sorption data is dependent on pH and ZrMoSi has high separation factors for Co(II) from Cs(I) and Sr(II). Reaction kinetics follow the pseudo-2nd-order model with an equilibrium time of 60 min and sorption isotherms are more applicable to a Langmuir isotherm. Desorption of Co(II) from the loaded sorbent was studied using different eluents and the best eluant is HCl (93.39%). The recycling results of Co(II) from aqueous solutions are excellent and revealed that ZrMoSi sorbent can be used as a promising sorbent to remove Co(II) from liquid waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemistry of 3-acetylquinoline has attracted increased attention in both synthetic organic and medicinal chemistry. The present review summarizes the published data on the synthesis of 3-acetylquinoline derivatives and their reactions, including reactions involving and not involving the acetyl group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorption and selectivity behavior of 152+154Eu(III), La(III), Ce(III), and Sm(III) on bentonite–dolomite (B:D) composites were studied using the batch technique. The effect of shaking time, pH, initial metal concentrations, and temperature on the uptake was examined. The best uptake of 152+154Eu(III), La(III), Ce(III), and Sm(III) was reached at pH 4.5, with high separation factors at this pH. The kinetic data obey pseudo-second-order models. Langmuir model describes the uptake most adequately with the monolayer capacity of 26.87, 12.48, 9.17, and 7.42 mg g–1 for 152+154Eu(III), La(III), Ce(III), and Sm(III), respectively. The thermodynamic functions show that the sorption is endothermic and spontaneous. The studies show that B:D composites are suitable for the uptake of the ions under consideration from liquid solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nanocrystalline thin films of PbS with both thickness (400 and 600)nm have been prepared successfully by chemical bath deposition technique on glass and Si substrates. The structure and morphology of these films were studied by X-ray diffraction and atomic force microscope. It shows that the structure is polycrystalline and the average crystallite size has been measured. The optical parameters of the prepared films as absorption, transmittance, reflectance, optical energy gap, and absorption coefficient were found as affected by varying the thickness. The optical measurement showed that (PbS) films have an allowed direct energy gap (Eg) and that decreases with thickness increasing. The photoconductive measurement gives the positive photoconductive for PbS thin films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dermatophytes, which are the common causative agents of superficial infection on the human skin called dermatophytosis that can be treated by various antifungal drugs. Nanoparticles composed of such drugs have many benefits. A new form called xerogel of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) was prepared and tested against dermatophytes. Methods: Xerogel consists of Ag-NPs and ZnO-NPs was prepared. Characteristics of chemical composition, surface morphology, and nanoparticle size were determined. Antidermatophytic action of prepared xerogel was investigated against Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton verrucosum. Results: The new preparation exhibited satisfactory character of xerogel nanoparticles. Trichophyton mentagrophytes showed more susceptibility to xerogel with lower minimum inhibitory concentration than T. verrucosum. Conclusions: Xerogel nanoparticles composed of Ag and ZnO were successfully prepared. They had antidermatophytic action in specific concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune event increases oxidative stress in islet β cells, giving rise to cellular dysfunction and apoptosis. Lipoxygenases are enzymes that catalyze the oxygenation of polyunsaturated fatty acids that can form lipid metabolites involved in several biological functions, including oxidative stress. 12-Lipoxygenase and 12/15-lipoxygenase are related but distinct enzymes that are expressed in pancreatic islets, but their relative contributions to oxidative stress in these regions are still being elucidated. In this study, we used mice with global genetic deletion of the genes encoding 12-lipoxygenase (arachidonate 12-lipoxygenase, 12S type [Alox12]) or 12/15-lipoxygenase (Alox15) to compare the influence of each gene deletion on β cell function and survival in response to theβ cell toxin streptozotocin. Alox12-/- mice exhibited greater impairment in glucose tolerance following streptozotocin exposure than WT mice, whereas Alox15-/- mice were protected against dysglycemia. These changes were accompanied by evidence of islet oxidative stress in Alox12-/- mice and reduced oxidative stress in Alox15-/- mice, consistent with alterations in the expression of the antioxidant response enzymes in islets from these mice. Additionally, islets from Alox12-/- mice displayed a compensatory increase in Alox15 gene expression, and treatment of these mice with the 12/15-lipoxygenase inhibitor ML-351 rescued the dysglycemic phenotype. Collectively, these results indicate that Alox12 loss activates a compensatory increase in Alox15 that sensitizes mouse β cells to oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sorption of Zr(IV) and Y(III) was examined using an iron-tin silicate (FeSnSi) composite prepared by the co-precipitation technique. The analytical tools that characterize prepared composite are FT-IR, SEM, EDX, XRD, and XRF. The effects of temperature, pH, ion concentrations, and shaking time are all considered in the sorption studies conducted on Zr(IV) and Y(III). The sorption of studied metal ions depends on pH, and the pseudo-2nd-order model governs the kinetics of reactions. Negative Gibbs energy values confirmed the excellent feasibility and spontaneity of the sorption process. Positive enthalpy values indicate that this process was endothermic. Positive entropy values demonstrated that the disorder between the solid and liquid phases was enhanced during adsorption. Freundlich and Langmuir models are used to study isotherms. The results of the binary system verify that Zr(IV) may be separated from the Zr-Y system at various pHs. According to the findings, the produced composite may effectively remove Zr(IV) and Y(III) from aqueous solutions. It may also be viable for purifying wastewater contaminated with these metal ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a key instigator of β-cell dysfunction in diabetes. The pleiotropic cytokine interleukin 6 (IL-6) has previously been linked to β-cell autophagy but has not been studied in the context of β-cell antioxidant response. We used a combination of animal models of diabetes and analysis of cultured human islets and rodent β-cells to study how IL-6 influences antioxidant response. We show that IL-6 couples autophagy to antioxidant response and thereby reduces ROS in β-cells and human islets. β-Cell-specific loss of IL-6 signaling in vivo renders mice more susceptible to oxidative damage and cell death through the selective β-cell toxins streptozotocin and alloxan. IL-6-driven ROS reduction is associated with an increase in the master antioxidant factor NRF2, which rapidly translocates to the mitochondria to decrease mitochondrial activity and stimulate mitophagy. IL-6 also initiates a robust transient decrease in cellular cAMP levels, likely contributing to the stimulation of mitophagy to mitigate ROS. Our findings suggest that coupling autophagy to antioxidant response in β-cells leads to stress adaptation that can reduce cellular apoptosis. These findings have implications for β-cell survival under diabetogenic conditions and present novel targets for therapeutic intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nanocrystalline thin films of PbS with different thickness (400, 600)nm have been prepared successfully by chemical bath deposition technique on glass and Si substrates. The structure and morphology of these films were studied by X-ray diffraction and atomic force microscope. It shows that the structure is polycrystalline and the average crystallite size has been measured. The electrical properties of these films have been studied, it was observed that D.C conductivity at room temperature increases with the increase of thickness, From Hall measurements the conductivity for all samples of PbS films is p-type. Carrier's concentration, mobility and drift velocity increases with increasing of thickness. Also p-PbS/n-Si heterojunction has been fabricated at different thickness. The reverse bias capacitance was measured as a function of bias voltage, and it is indicated that these HJs are abrupt. The capacitance decreases with increasing the reverse bias, and fixed at high value of reverse bias voltage. The capacitance increases with increasing thickness. The width of depletion layers decreases with increases thickness. The value of highest built in potential has been measured. The current-voltage characteristic show that the forward current at dark condition varies exponentially with applied voltage and the junction was coinciding with recombination-tunneling model. The difference between forward and reverse current with applied voltage indicates that the junction has a high rectification characteristic. The value of ideality factor was varies between (1.821-1.715), From the I-V measurements under illumination, the photocurrent increased with increasing thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of natural and synthetic antioxidants on productive performance, blood biochemical composition and liver oxidation status of broiler chickens. One day - old Ross broiler chickens(n=2 1 0) were fed on basal diet during the first week of age, then divided randomly into seven treated groups:T0(control group) without any addition,T1=0.75g Withania somnifera leaves(WSL)/kg diet,T2=1.5gWSL/kg di et,T3=0. 75 g rosemary leaves(RL)/kg diet,T4=1.5gRL/kg diet,T5=0.75g vitamin E/kg diet and T6=1.5g vitamin E/kg diet . Results show ed that supplementing broilers with 1.5g WSL significantly increased final live body weight, body weight gain, dressing percentage and improved feed conversion ratio. Results of serum biochemical tests indicated that dietary supplementation with natural and synthetic antioxidants significantly ( p≤0.05) reduced serum cholesterol as compared to control group. High levels of RL and vitamin E significantly decreased LDL as compared to control. Dietary supplementation with 1.5g RL significantly decreased serum albumin and glucose and increased globulin as compared to vitamin E supplemented groups. No significant differences were found be tween all experimental groups in serum HDL, VLDL, triglycerides, total protein, AST and ALT. In liver, 1.5g WSL significantly reduced peroxide value and malondialdehyde levels as compared to RL. It can be concluded from this study that adding herbs like Withania somnifera as natural antioxidant to broiler diet had positive effect in reducing lipid oxidation and minimize harmful effect of oxidation damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The date palm is one of the most important economic species of the palm family, grown mainly for its fruits (dates). Nowadays there is increased demand for date palm fruits around the world. To meet this demand, several propagation methods have been utilized, among them micropropagation which has been used in Iraq and many other countries for large-scale multiplication of date palm. Micropropagation faces several constraints; one is microbial contamination which represents a major challenge to the initiation and maintenance of date palm micropropagation laboratories. In recent years, two major groups of contaminants have been identified and isolated from different date palm tissue culture laboratories in Iraq. The first group is fungi. Several fungal species have been isolated and identified as contaminants; most predominant are: Aspergillus niger, Alternaria alternata and Penicillium spp. The second group is bacteria; predominantly of the genera Bacillus, Staphylococcus and Proteus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heterocyclization reaction of pyrazolinylquinolinone and its 4-chlorobenzylidene, 2-pyridylmethylene, pyridylaminomethylene, and 2-pyridylhydrazone derivatives with some active methylene nitriles and acrylonitriles, is described. These cyclization reactions afforded novel heterocyclic systems, such as pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines, pyrano[2,3- c]pyrazoles, and pyrazolo[4,3- c]pyridazines, linked to position 3 of 4-hydroxy-1-methylquinolin-2(1 H)-one. The effect of the new products on the activity of α-amylase was examined. Some pyrano[2,3- c]pyrazoles revealed significant increase in α-D-glucose production by the enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by pancreatic β-cells results in a high level of metabolic activity and ROS production. Excess ROS can cause cellular damage leading to apoptosis. We recently reported that the cytokine interleukin 6 (IL-6) stimulates autophagy and protects β-cells from ROS-induced damage and apoptosis via the autophagic degradation of an antioxidant response repressor, KEAP1. This results in increased protein levels of the master antioxidant factor, NRF2. IL-6 also stimulates early markers of mitophagy in a NRF2-dependent manner. Interestingly, these effects are associated with noncanonical translocation of NRF2 to the mitochondria. Here, we set out to validate these findings and determine how NRF2 mitochondrial translocation is regulated. Using fluorescence imaging of mt-keima, we demonstrate that IL-6 stimulates mitophagy. This occurs without effects on mitochondrial function as measured by the Seahorse MitoStress Test. We also find that IL-6 rapidly stimulates NRF2 mitochondrial translocation, an effect that does not occur in response to treatment with hydrogen peroxide or a chemical inhibitor of KEAP1. These data indicate that liberating NRF2 from KEAP1 alone does not lead to NRF2 mitochondrial translocation, suggesting that IL-6 regulates NRF2 localization by additional mechanisms. NRF2 has extensive post-translational modifications, some of which are associated with nuclear localization. Therefore, we hypothesized that IL-6 induces specific NRF2 post-translational modifications that promote mitochondrial translocation. Indeed, we found that IL-6 stimulates serine phosphorylation on NRF2. Based on our findings described here, we propose that selective modification of NRF2 regulates its distinct subcellular localization and that selective translocation determines the mechanism of NRF2-mediated antioxidant response that functions to reduce ROS and restore cellular homeostasis in pancreatic β-cells. Disclosure: M. Marasco: Employee; Spouse/Partner; Eli Lilly and Company. A.M. Conteh: None. C. Muralidharan: None. E. Pfeifer: None. A.K. Linnemann: None. Funding: National Institutes of Health (K01DK102492), (R03DK115990 to A.K.L.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magneso-silicate (MgSi) as an inorganic ion exchange material was synthesized by a precipitation technique. Then, the MgSi was impregnated into polyacrylamide acrylic acid and its composites (Poly) by condensation polymerization. To study the effect of γ-radiation, the polyacrylamide acrylic acid and its MgSi samples were synthesized using γ-irradiating systems at 25, 65 and 90 kGy. The variations in the radiation dose and amorphous structure were altered and confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Moreover, the absorbance and band-gap energy were enhanced by inserting MgSi into the polymeric composites (Poly). Furthermore, variations in temperature with dielectric constant, dielectric loss and conductivity of the samples at various frequencies from 100, 500, 1000, 2000 to 4000 Hz have been explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs) are aggressive with frequent lymphatic spread. By analysis of data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, we determined that ~35% of PDACs have a pro-angiogenic gene signature. We now show that the same PDACs exhibit increased expression of lymphangiogenic genes and lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC) markers, and that LEC abundance in human PDACs correlates with endothelial cell microvessel density. Lymphangiogenic genes and LECs are also elevated in murine PDACs arising in the KRC (mutated Kras; deleted RB) and KIC (mutated Kras; deleted INK4a) genetic models. Moreover, pancreatic cancer cells (PCCs) derived from KRC tumors express and secrete high levels of lymphangiogenic factors, including the EGF receptor ligand, amphiregulin. Importantly, TGF-β1 increases lymphangiogenic genes and amphiregulin expression in KRC PCCs but not in murine PCCs that lack SMAD4, and combinatorial targeting of the TGF-β type I receptor (TβRI) with LY2157299 and EGFR/HER2 with lapatinib suppresses tumor growth and metastasis in a syngeneic orthotopic model, and attenuates tumor lymphangiogenesis and angiogenesis while reducing lymphangiogenic genes and amphiregulin and enhancing apoptosis. Therefore, this combination could be beneficial in PDACs with lymphangiogenic or angiogenic gene signatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance lymphangiography is a high-resolution imaging technique that has emerged as the preferred method for evaluating lymphatic anatomy and flow dynamics due to its precise anatomical detail. The lymphatic system has a complex anatomical distribution, and variability is common among individuals with cardiac abnormalities, particularly congenital heart disease. Lymphatic imaging has recently been revolutionized by the introduction of MR lymphangiography. However, challenges in interpreting these images persist due to limited availability of this modality, and the expertise required for its performance and interpretation, especially in pediatric patients. We aim to outline a simple algorithm employed in our practice for interpreting MR lymphangiography images for pediatric radiologists.Graphical Abstract: Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance lymphangiography is a high-resolution imaging technique that has emerged as the preferred method for evaluating lymphatic anatomy and flow dynamics due to its precise anatomical detail. The lymphatic system has a complex anatomical distribution, and variability is common among individuals with cardiac abnormalities, particularly congenital heart disease. Lymphatic imaging has recently been revolutionized by the introduction of MR lymphangiography. However, challenges in interpreting these images persist due to limited availability of this modality, and the expertise required for its performance and interpretation, especially in pediatric patients. We aim to outline a simple algorithm employed in our practice for interpreting MR lymphangiography images for pediatric radiologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large body of evidence reveals a web of complex, multifaceted genetic, and environmental factors that influences incidence of T1D. Among these, viral infection has been discussed as a factor implicated in onset. Production of type 1 interferons (IFN) is the archetypal immune response to viral infection. Indeed, at-risk children exhibit IFN-associated transcriptional profiles and IFN-stimulated genes are elevated in new onset T1D patients. IFN-α induces ER stress, substantial overexpression of HLA class 1, and insulitis in the islet. β-cells are known to be sensitive to reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation which may contribute to autoimmunogenicity in the IFN response. In order to detect the in vivo effects of IFN-α on the physiology of human islets, we conducted intravital microscopy studies of human islets transplanted in the mouse kidney - following transduction with a ratiometric fluorescent redox biosensor. These studies revealed that intravenous IFN-α elicited a mild overall accumulation of ROS in human islets, but rapid and pronounced accumulation of ROS in a subset of islet β-cells - a population of cells we termed, "ROSponders." Interestingly, the percentage of β-cells categorized as ROSponders was variable between donors (ranging from ~1% to 6% of all β-cells). Recent observations have drawn attention to the importance of β-cell expression and functional heterogeneity within the islet. Furthermore, recent work suggests that blockade of IFN-α signaling prior to clinical T1D manifestation may intercept autoimmunity and abort onset. Altogether, this work identifies novel heterogeneity of response to an inflammatory cytokine implicated in T1D onset and may inform future approaches to the treatment of T1D. Disclosure: M. Arvin: None. C. Muralidharan: None. A. M. Conteh: None. M. M. Martinez irizarry: None. K. Orr: None. K. W. Dunn: None. A. K. Linnemann: None. Funding: Human Islet Research Network (RRID:SCR_014393; UC4 DK104162); National Institutes of Health (3T32DK064466-18S1) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Islet β-cell dysfunction and aggressive macrophage activity are early features in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes (T1D). 12/15-Lipoxygenase (12/15-LOX) is induced in β-cells and macrophages during T1D and produces proinflammatory lipids and lipid peroxides that exacerbate β-cell dysfunction and macrophage activity. Inhibition of 12/15-LOX provides a potential therapeutic approach to prevent glycemic deterioration in T1D. Two inhibitors recently identified by our groups through screening efforts, ML127 and ML351, have been shown to selectively target 12/15-LOX with high potency. Only ML351 exhibited no apparent toxicity across a range of concentrations in mouse islets, and molecular modeling has suggested reduced promiscuity of ML351 compared with ML127. In mouse islets, incubation with ML351 improved glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in the presence of proinflammatory cytokines and triggered gene expression pathways responsive to oxidative stress and cell death. Consistent with a role for 12/15-LOX in promoting oxidative stress, its chemical inhibition reduced production of reactive oxygen species in both mouse and human islets in vitro. In a streptozotocin-induced model of T1D in mice, ML351 prevented the development of diabetes, with coincident enhancement of nuclear Nrf2 in islet cells, reduced β-cell oxidative stress, and preservation of β-cell mass. In the nonobese diabetic mouse model of T1D, administration of ML351 during the prediabetic phase prevented dysglycemia, reduced β-cell oxidative stress, and increased the proportion of anti-inflammatory macrophages in insulitis. The data provide the first evidence to date that small molecules that target 12/15-LOX can prevent progression of β-cell dysfunction and glycemic deterioration in models of T1D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study tested the hypothesis that glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) therapies improve cardiac contractile function at rest and in response to adrenergic stimulation in obese swine after myocardial infarction. Obese Ossabaw swine were subjected to gradually developing regional coronary occlusion using an ameroid occluder placed around the left anterior descending coronary artery. Animals received subcutaneous injections of saline or liraglutide (0.005-0.015 mg/kg/day) for 30 days after ameroid placement. Cardiac performance was assessed at rest and in response to sympathomimetic challenge (dobutamine 0.3-10 μg/kg/min) using a left ventricular pressure/volume catheter. Liraglutide increased diastolic relaxation (dP/dt; Tau 1/2; Tau 1/e) during dobutamine stimulation (P < 0.01) despite having no influence on the magnitude of myocardial infarction. The slope of the end-systolic pressure volume relationship (i.e., contractility) increased with dobutamine after liraglutide (P < 0.001) but not saline administration (P = 0.63). Liraglutide enhanced the slope of the relationship between cardiac power and pressure volume area (i.e., cardiac efficiency) with dobutamine (P = 0.017). Hearts from animals treated with liraglutide demonstrated decreased β1-adrenoreceptor expression. These data support that GLP-1 agonism augments cardiac efficiency via attenuation of maladaptive sympathetic signaling in the setting of obesity and myocardial infarction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study tested the hypothesis that obesity alters the cardiac response to ischemia/reperfusion and/or glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor activation, and that these differences are associated with alterations in the obese cardiac proteome and microRNA (miR) transcriptome. Ossabaw swine were fed normal chow or obesogenic diet for 6 months. Cardiac function was assessed at baseline, during a 30-min coronary occlusion, and during 2 hours of reperfusion in anesthetized swine treated with saline or exendin-4 for 24 hours. Cardiac biopsies were obtained from normal and ischemia/reperfusion territories. Fat-fed animals were heavier, and exhibited hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. Plasma troponin-I concentration (index of myocardial injury) was increased following ischemia/reperfusion and decreased by exendin-4 treatment in both groups. Ischemia/reperfusion produced reductions in systolic pressure and stroke volume in lean swine. These indices were higher in obese hearts at baseline and relatively maintained throughout ischemia/reperfusion. Exendin-4 administration increased systolic pressure in lean swine but did not affect blood pressure in obese swine. End-diastolic volume was reduced by exendin-4 following ischemia/reperfusion in obese swine. These divergent physiologic responses were associated with obesity-related differences in proteins related to myocardial structure/function (e.g. titin) and calcium handling (e.g. SERCA2a, histidine-rich Ca2+ binding protein). Alterations in expression of cardiac miRs in obese hearts included miR-15, miR-27, miR-130, miR-181, and let-7. Taken together, these observations validate this discovery approach and reveal novel associations that suggest previously undiscovered mechanisms contributing to the effects of obesity on the heart and contributing to the actions of GLP-1 following ischemia/reperfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autophagy is a dynamic recycling mechanism that maintains beta cell homeostasis, whereas the related process of crinophagy also plays a specific role in insulin granule regulation. Impairment of autophagy and crinophagy have been implicated in beta cell death and dysfunction in the context of type 2 diabetes; however, there is currently no literature describing beta cell autophagy in type 1 diabetes pathogenesis. Therefore, we set out to determine if beta cell autophagy and crinophagy are impaired in the context of type 1 diabetes. We utilized immunofluorescent staining of LC3 (autophagosome marker), Lamp1 (lysosome marker), and proinsulin to analyze pancreatic islet autophagy and crinophagy in the NOD (non-obese diabetic) mouse model of type 1 diabetes as well as in human pancreas tissue obtained from the network for Pancreatic Organ donors with Diabetes (nPOD). We observed evidence of reduced macroautophagy in the residual proinsulin-positive islet cells of human donors with type 1 diabetescompared to controls, as measured by significantly reduced autophagosome:lysosome colocalization (p=0.034). Similarly, there was a trend towards reduced autophagosome:lysosome colocalization in islets of diabetic NOD mice compared to nondiabetic NOR mice (p=0.08). We also observed significantly reduced colocalization of proinsulin with lysosomes in the proinsulin positive cells from human donors with type 1 diabetes in comparison to both controls without diabetes (p=0.0014) and autoantibody positive donors (p= 0.0278), as well as in diabetic NOD vs. nondiabetic NOR mice (p=0.0121), suggesting that crinophagy is also reduced as a function of type 1 diabetes. Collectively, we provide evidence that macroautophagy and crinophagy are reduced in the context of type 1 diabetes. Considering these data in the context of what is known regarding the cell-protective effects of islet autophagy, we suggest targeting beta cell autophagy pathways as an approach to reduce apoptosis in individuals at risk for type 1 diabetes development. Disclosure: C. Muralidharan: None. M. Marasco: Employee; Spouse/Partner; Eli Lilly and Company. J. Crowder: Employee; Spouse/Partner; Eli Lilly and Company. A.M. Conteh: None. A.K. Linnemann: None. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Buruli ulcer caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans is endemic in parts of West Africa and is most prevalent among the 5-15 years age group; Buruli ulcer is uncommon among neonates. The mode of transmission and incubation period of Buruli ulcer are unknown. We report two cases of confirmed Buruli ulcer in human immunodeficiency virus-unexposed, vaginally delivered term neonates in Ghana.Case Presentation: Patient 1: Two weeks after hospital delivery, a baby born to natives of the Ashanti ethnic group of Ghana was noticed by her mother to have a papule with associated edema on the right anterior chest wall and neck that later ulcerated. There was no restriction of neck movements. The diagnosis of Buruli ulcer was confirmed on the basis of a swab sample that had a positive polymerase chain reaction result for the IS2404 repeat sequence of M. ulcerans. Patient 2: This patient, from the Ashanti ethnic group in Ghana, had the mother noticing a swelling in the baby's left gluteal region 4 days after birth. The lesion progressively increased in size to involve almost the entire left gluteal region. Around the same time, the mother noticed a second, smaller lesion on the forehead and left side of neck. The diagnosis of Buruli ulcer was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction when the child was aged 4 weeks. Both patients 1 and 2 were treated with oral rifampicin and clarithromycin at recommended doses for 8 weeks in addition to appropriate daily wound dressing, leading to complete healing. Our report details two cases of polymerase chain reaction-confirmed Buruli ulcer in children whose lesions appeared at ages 14 and 4 days, respectively. The mode of transmission of M. ulcerans infection is unknown, so the incubation period is difficult to estimate and is probably dependent on the infective dose and the age of exposure. In our study, lesions appeared 4 days after birth in patient 2. Unless the infection was acquired in utero, this would be the shortest incubation period ever recorded.Conclusions: Buruli ulcer should be included in the differential diagnosis of neonates who present with characteristic lesions. The incubation period of Buruli ulcer in neonates is probably shorter than is reported for adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pancreatic islet is a complex micro-organ containing numerous cell types, including endocrine, immune, and endothelial cells. The communication of these systems is lost upon isolation of the islets, and therefore the pathogenesis of diabetes can only be fully understood by studying this organized, multicellular environment in vivo. We have developed several adaptable tools to create a versatile platform to interrogate β-cell function in vivo. Specifically, we developed β-cell-selective virally-encoded fluorescent protein biosensors that can be rapidly and easily introduced into any mouse. We then coupled the use of these biosensors with intravital microscopy, a powerful tool that can be used to collect cellular and subcellular data from living tissues. Together, these approaches allowed the observation of in vivo β-cell-specific ROS dynamics using the Grx1-roGFP2 biosensor and calcium signaling using the GcAMP6s biosensor. Next, we utilized abdominal imaging windows (AIW) to extend our in vivo observations beyond single-point terminal measurements to collect longitudinal physiological and biosensor data through repeated imaging of the same mice over time. This platform represents a significant advancement in our ability to study β-cell structure and signaling in vivo, and its portability for use in virtually any mouse model will enable meaningful studies of β-cell physiology in the endogenous islet niche. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]