1
|
Ulrich H, Macherius A, Kunkel U, Sengl M, Letzel T. Novel PFAS-specific monitoring approach for highly impacted surface waters. Chemosphere 2024; 349:140893. [PMID: 38072205 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
In regulatory environmental monitoring programs, only a very small fraction of the vast number of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are investigated by target analysis. Therefore, non-target analysis (NTA) studies are increasingly conducted to detect unknown or unnoticed PFAS. These studies are often based on a few grab samples. Thus, discontinuously emitted PFAS from industrial batch processes might be easily overlooked. To address this deficiency and obtain in-depth information on the occurrence and temporal trend of PFAS in surface water impacted by treated industrial waste water, a comprehensive target and NTA study was implemented for 29 months. Elevated PFAS concentrations with up to 10.8 μg L-1 were detected in the river water by target analysis. In addition to PFAS target analysis, the water samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography-high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS/MS). Data processing strategies and various filtering steps were applied to prioritize PFAS. Substances were identified by comparing data to available internal and external PFAS suspect lists, a fragment ion and neutral loss list, and spectral libraries. Several compounds were unequivocally identified based on reference standards. Fifty-five PFAS were (tentatively) identified using NTA. Of those, 43 could be assigned to 13 different homologous series. Partly fluorinated short-chain carboxylic acids (H-PFCA) and sulfonic acids (H-PFSA) were predominantly found in addition to perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCA) and the alkyl ether carboxylic acid DONA. To the best of our knowledge, 12 PFAS were reported in surface water for the first time. Signal intensities of individual PFAS and signal ratios varied widely over time, which may indicate batch operations leading to discontinuous emission. Results and insights from this screening approach on PFAS can be used to optimize forthcoming surface water monitoring programs by including newly identified PFAS and selecting appropriate sampling intervals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Ulrich
- Bavarian Environment Agency, Demollstr. 31, 82407 Wielenbach, Germany; Technical University of Munich (Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering), Am Coulombwall 3, 85748 Garching bei München, Germany.
| | - A Macherius
- Bavarian Environment Agency, Buergermeister-Ulrich-Straße 160, 86179 Augsburg, Germany.
| | - U Kunkel
- Bavarian Environment Agency, Buergermeister-Ulrich-Straße 160, 86179 Augsburg, Germany.
| | - M Sengl
- Bavarian Environment Agency, Buergermeister-Ulrich-Straße 160, 86179 Augsburg, Germany.
| | - T Letzel
- Technical University of Munich (Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering), Am Coulombwall 3, 85748 Garching bei München, Germany; Analytisches Forschungsinstitut fuer Non-Target Screening (AFIN-TS) GmbH, Augsburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Nuñez-Rios JD, Ulrich H, Díaz-Muñoz M, Lameu C, Vázquez-Cuevas FG. Purinergic system in cancer stem cells. Purinergic Signal 2023:10.1007/s11302-023-09976-5. [PMID: 37966629 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-023-09976-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence supports the idea that cancer stem cells (CSCs) are those with the capacity to initiate tumors, generate phenotypical diversity, sustain growth, confer drug resistance, and orchestrate the spread of tumor cells. It is still controversial whether CSCs originate from normal stem cells residing in the tissue or cancer cells from the tumor bulk that have dedifferentiated to acquire stem-like characteristics. Although CSCs have been pointed out as key drivers in cancer, knowledge regarding their physiology is still blurry; thus, research focusing on CSCs is essential to designing novel and more effective therapeutics. The purinergic system has emerged as an important autocrine-paracrine messenger system with a prominent role at multiple levels of the tumor microenvironment, where it regulates cellular aspects of the tumors themselves and the stromal and immune systems. Recent findings have shown that purinergic signaling also participates in regulating the CSC phenotype. Here, we discuss updated information regarding CSCs in the purinergic system and present evidence supporting the idea that elements of the purinergic system expressed by this subpopulation of the tumor represent attractive pharmacological targets for proposing innovative anti-cancer therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J D Nuñez-Rios
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Boulevard Juriquilla #3001, Juriquilla Querétaro, Querétaro, CP 76230, México
| | - H Ulrich
- Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry Institute, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M Díaz-Muñoz
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Boulevard Juriquilla #3001, Juriquilla Querétaro, Querétaro, CP 76230, México
| | - C Lameu
- Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry Institute, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - F G Vázquez-Cuevas
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Boulevard Juriquilla #3001, Juriquilla Querétaro, Querétaro, CP 76230, México.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Andrä I, Ulrich H, Dürr S, Soll D, Henkel L, Angerpointner C, Ritter J, Przibilla S, Stadler H, Effenberger M, Busch DH, Schiemann M. An Evaluation of T‐Cell Functionality After Flow Cytometry Sorting Revealed p38 MAPK Activation. Cytometry A 2020; 97:171-183. [DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.23964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Immanuel Andrä
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and HygieneTechnische Universität München (TUM) Munich Germany
| | - Hanna Ulrich
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation ResearchUniversität zu Lübeck Lübeck Germany
| | - Susi Dürr
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and HygieneTechnische Universität München (TUM) Munich Germany
| | - Dominik Soll
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and HygieneTechnische Universität München (TUM) Munich Germany
| | - Lynette Henkel
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and HygieneTechnische Universität München (TUM) Munich Germany
| | - Corinne Angerpointner
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and HygieneTechnische Universität München (TUM) Munich Germany
| | - Julia Ritter
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation ResearchUniversität zu Lübeck Lübeck Germany
| | | | - Herbert Stadler
- Cell.Copedia GmbH Leipzig Germany
- IBA GmbH, IBA Lifesciences Göttingen Lower Saxony Germany
| | - Manuel Effenberger
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and HygieneTechnische Universität München (TUM) Munich Germany
| | - Dirk H. Busch
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and HygieneTechnische Universität München (TUM) Munich Germany
- Focus Group 'Clinical Cell Processing and Purification'Institute for Advanced Study, TUM Munich Germany
- National Centre for Infection Research (DZIF) Munich Germany
| | - Matthias Schiemann
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and HygieneTechnische Universität München (TUM) Munich Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kock-Schoppenhauer AK, Kroll B, Lambarki M, Ulrich H, Stahl-Toyota S, Habermann JK, Duhm-Harbeck P, Ingenerf J, Lablans M. One Step Away from Technology but One Step Towards Domain Experts-MDRBridge: A Template-Based ISO 11179-Compliant Metadata Processing Pipeline. Methods Inf Med 2019; 58:e72-e79. [PMID: 31853911 DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-3399579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Secondary use of routine medical data relies on a shared understanding of given information. This understanding is achieved through metadata and their interconnections, which can be stored in metadata repositories (MDRs). The necessity of an MDR is well understood, but the local work on metadata is a time-consuming and challenging process for domain experts. OBJECTIVE To support the identification, collection, and provision of metadata in a predefined structured manner to foster consolidation. A particular focus is placed on user acceptance. METHODS We propose a software pipeline MDRBridge as a practical intermediary for metadata capture and processing, based on MDRSheet, an ISO 11179-3 compliant template using popular spreadsheet software. It serves as a practical mediator for metadata acquisition and processing in a broader pipeline. Due to the different origins of the metadata, both manual entry and automatic extractions from application systems are supported. To enable the export of collected metadata into external MDRs, a mapping of ISO 11179 to Clinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISC) Operational Data Model (ODM) was developed. RESULTS MDRSheet is embedded in the processing pipeline MDRBridge and delivers metadata in the CDISC ODM format for further use in MDRs. This approach is used to interactively unify core datasets, import existing standard datasets, and automatically extract all defined data elements from source systems. The involvement of clinical domain experts improved significantly due to minimal changes within their usual work routine. CONCLUSION A high degree of acceptance was achieved by adapting the working methods of clinical domain experts. The designed process is capable of transforming all relevant data elements according to the ISO 11179-3 format. MDRSheet is used as an intermediate format to present the information at a glance and to allow editing or supplementing by domain experts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - B Kroll
- IT Center for Clinical Research, University of Lübeck, Germany
| | - M Lambarki
- Federated Information Systems, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - H Ulrich
- IT Center for Clinical Research, University of Lübeck, Germany
| | - S Stahl-Toyota
- Medical Informatics for Translational Oncology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - J K Habermann
- Section for Translational Surgical Oncology and Biobanking, Department of Surgery, University of Lübeck & University Clinical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Center for Biobanking-Lübeck (ICB-L), University of Lübeck, Germany
| | - P Duhm-Harbeck
- IT Center for Clinical Research, University of Lübeck, Germany
| | - J Ingenerf
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Lübeck, Germany
| | - M Lablans
- Federated Information Systems, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ulrich H, Mlinarić M, Kohler E. Explaining healthcare among unaccompanied minor refugees: a realist review. Eur J Public Health 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckz185.418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Existing research on psychosocial care of unaccompanied minor refugees (UMRs) mainly focusses on socio-epidemiological accounts and qualitative evidence from the perspective of experts in the field of psychosocial care. In contrast, knowledge concerning differing context factors as well as underlying mechanisms of current healthcare barriers, which could inform policy recommendations, are rather scant.
Methods
To synthesize scientific evidence and gray literature dealing with the field of psychosocial healthcare of UMRs, a realist review (RR) was conducted following six methodological steps of RAMESES publication standards for realist synthesis. Based on a iterative search of keywords “UMR”, “UMF”, “UMA” and “mental health care” in electronic databases PubMed, GBV and Web of Science we gained access to 974 texts from 2005 to 2019. Screend studies and reports were systematically reviewed according rigor and relevance, which included n = 53 documents for realist synthesis with theory-informed context-mechanism-outcome configurations (CMOs).
Results
UMRs have a high prevalence risk for posttraumatic stress disorders and they face manifold institutional, cultural, ethical, juridical, and language-based barriers of care. A dominant and multiple CMO highlight residence status (C1), which limits access of UMRs to healthcare (M1) and produces psychosocially related mental health outcomes (O1). Residence status (C1) may also trigger mechanisms of structural or at least perceived discrimination (M2), which mediates undersupply of UMRs (O2).
Conclusions
The inclusion of lay perspectives and an intersectional approach could inform health services research and practitioners. The reflection of UMR’s social positions between categorical constructs of resilience and vulnerability, discriminatory discourses of othering, and restrictive health policies may guide policy recommendations to potentially reduce persistent disadvantages.
Key messages
The inclusion of lay perspectives and an intersectional approach could inform UMR related health services research and practitioners. The reflection of UMR’s social positions (between categories, discourses, and health policies) may guide policy recommendations to potentially reduce persistent disadvantages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Ulrich
- Institut für Medizinische Soziologie, Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - M Mlinarić
- Institut für Medizinische Soziologie, Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - E Kohler
- Institut für Medizinische Soziologie, Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Baptista MS, Alves MJM, Arantes GM, Armelin HA, Augusto O, Baldini RL, Basseres DS, Bechara EJH, Bruni-Cardoso A, Chaimovich H, Colepicolo Neto P, Colli W, Cuccovia IM, Da-Silva AM, Di Mascio P, Farah SC, Ferreira C, Forti FL, Giordano RJ, Gomes SL, Gueiros Filho FJ, Hoch NC, Hotta CT, Labriola L, Lameu C, Machini MT, Malnic B, Marana SR, Medeiros MHG, Meotti FC, Miyamoto S, Oliveira CC, Souza-Pinto NC, Reis EM, Ronsein GE, Salinas RK, Schechtman D, Schreier S, Setubal JC, Sogayar MC, Souza GM, Terra WR, Truzzi DR, Ulrich H, Verjovski-Almeida S, Winck FV, Zingales B, Kowaltowski AJ. Where do we aspire to publish? A position paper on scientific communication in biochemistry and molecular biology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 52:e8935. [PMID: 31482979 PMCID: PMC6719344 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20198935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The scientific publication landscape is changing quickly, with an enormous increase in options and models. Articles can be published in a complex variety of journals that differ in their presentation format (online-only or in-print), editorial organizations that maintain them (commercial and/or society-based), editorial handling (academic or professional editors), editorial board composition (academic or professional), payment options to cover editorial costs (open access or pay-to-read), indexation, visibility, branding, and other aspects. Additionally, online submissions of non-revised versions of manuscripts prior to seeking publication in a peer-reviewed journal (a practice known as pre-printing) are a growing trend in biological sciences. In this changing landscape, researchers in biochemistry and molecular biology must re-think their priorities in terms of scientific output dissemination. The evaluation processes and institutional funding for scientific publications should also be revised accordingly. This article presents the results of discussions within the Department of Biochemistry, University of São Paulo, on this subject.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M S Baptista
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - M J M Alves
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - G M Arantes
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - H A Armelin
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - O Augusto
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - R L Baldini
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - D S Basseres
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - E J H Bechara
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - A Bruni-Cardoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - H Chaimovich
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - P Colepicolo Neto
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - W Colli
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - I M Cuccovia
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - A M Da-Silva
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - P Di Mascio
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - S C Farah
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - C Ferreira
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - F L Forti
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - R J Giordano
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - S L Gomes
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - F J Gueiros Filho
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - N C Hoch
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - C T Hotta
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - L Labriola
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - C Lameu
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - M T Machini
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - B Malnic
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - S R Marana
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - M H G Medeiros
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - F C Meotti
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - S Miyamoto
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - C C Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - N C Souza-Pinto
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - E M Reis
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - G E Ronsein
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - R K Salinas
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - D Schechtman
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - S Schreier
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - J C Setubal
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - M C Sogayar
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - G M Souza
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - W R Terra
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - D R Truzzi
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - H Ulrich
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - S Verjovski-Almeida
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - F V Winck
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - B Zingales
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - A J Kowaltowski
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ulrich H, Kern J, Tas D, Kock-Schoppenhauer AK, Ückert F, Ingenerf J, Lablans M. QL 4MDR: a GraphQL query language for ISO 11179-based metadata repositories. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2019; 19:45. [PMID: 30885183 PMCID: PMC6421684 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-019-0794-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Heterogeneous healthcare instance data can hardly be integrated without harmonizing its schema-level metadata. Many medical research projects and organizations use metadata repositories to edit, store and reuse data elements. However, existing metadata repositories differ regarding software implementation and have shortcomings when it comes to exchanging metadata. This work aims to define a uniform interface with a technical interlingua between the different MDR implementations in order to enable and facilitate the exchange of metadata, to query over distributed systems and to promote cooperation. To design a unified interface for multiple existing MDRs, a standardized data model must be agreed on. The ISO 11179 is an international standard for the representation of metadata, and since most MDR systems claim to be at least partially compliant, it is suitable for defining an interface thereupon. Therefore, each repository must be able to define which parts can be served and the interface must be able to handle highly linked data. GraphQL is a data access layer and defines query techniques designed to navigate easily through complex data structures. Results We propose QL4MDR, an ISO 11179-3 compatible GraphQL query language. The GraphQL schema for QL4MDR is derived from the ISO 11179 standard and defines objects, fields, queries and mutation types. Entry points within the schema define the path through the graph to enable search functionalities, but also the exchange is promoted by mutation types, which allow creating, updating and deleting of metadata. QL4MDR is the foundation for the uniform interface, which is implemented in a modern web-based interface prototype. Conclusions We have introduced a uniform query interface for metadata repositories combining the ISO 11179 standard for metadata repositories and the GraphQL query language. A reference implementation based on the existing Samply.MDR was implemented. The interface facilitates access to metadata, enables better interaction with metadata as well as a basis for connecting existing repositories. We invite other ISO 11179-based metadata repositories to take this approach into account.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Ulrich
- IT Center for Clinical Research, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
| | - J Kern
- Federated Information Systems, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - D Tas
- Federated Information Systems, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - F Ückert
- Medical Informatics in Translational Oncology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - J Ingenerf
- IT Center for Clinical Research, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - M Lablans
- Federated Information Systems, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dimpfel W, Spüler M, Pierau FK, Ulrich H. Thioctic Acid Induces Dose-Dependent Sprouting of Neurites
in Cultured Rat Neuroblastoma Cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1159/000480918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
9
|
Kang D, Apel W, Arteaga-Velázquez J, Bekk K, Bertaina M, Blümer J, Bozdog H, Brancus I, Cantoni E, Chiavassa A, Cossavella F, Daumiller K, de Souza V, Di Pierro F, Doll P, Engel R, Fuhrmann D, Gherghel-Lascu A, Gils H, Glasstetter R, Grupen C, Haungs A, Heck D, Hörandel J, Huber D, Huege T, Kampert KH, Klages H, Link K, Łuczak P, Mathes H, Mayer H, Milke J, Mitrica B, Morello C, Oehlschläger J, Ostapchenko S, Palmieri N, Pierog T, Rebel H, Roth M, Schieler H, Schoo S, Schröder F, Sima O, Toma G, Trinchero G, Ulrich H, Weindl A, Wochele J, Zabierowski J. Recent results from the KASCADE-Grande data analysis. EPJ Web Conf 2019. [DOI: 10.1051/epjconf/201920804005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
KASCADE, together with its extension KASCADE-Grande measured individual air showers of cosmic rays in the primary energy range of 100 TeV to 1 EeV. The data collection was fully completed at the end of 2013 and the experiment was dismantled. However, the data analysis is still in progress. Recently, we published a new result on upper limits to the flux of ultra-high energy gamma rays, which set constraints on some fundamental astrophysical models. We also use the data to investigate the validity of the new hadronic interactions models like SIBYLL version 2.3c or EPOS-LHC. In addition, we updated and improved the webbased platform of the KASCADE Cosmic Ray Data Centre (KCDC), where now the data from KASCADE and KASCADE-Grande of more than 20 years measurements is available, including corresponding Monte-Carlo simulated events based on three different hadronic interaction models. In this contribution, recent results from KASCADE-Grande and the update of KCDC is briefly discussed.
Collapse
|
10
|
Arteaga-Velázquez J, Rivera-Rangel D, Apel W, Bekk K, Bertaina M, Blümer J, Bozdog H, Brancus I, Cantoni E, Chiavassa A, Cossavella F, Daumiller K, de Souza V, Di Pierro F, Doll P, Engel R, Fuhrmann D, Gherghel-Lascu A, Gils H, Glasstetter R, Grupen C, Haungs A, Heck D, Hörandel J, Huege T, Kampert K, Kang D, Klages H, Link K, Łuczak P, Mathes H, Mayer H, Milke J, Mitrica B, Morello C, Oehlschläger J, Ostapchenko S, Pierog T, Rebel H, Roth M, Schieler H, Schoo S, Schröder F, Sima O, Toma G, Trinchero G, Ulrich H, Weindl A, Wochele J, Zabierowski J. Study of themuon content of high-energy air showers with KASCADE-Grande. EPJ Web Conf 2019. [DOI: 10.1051/epjconf/201920806003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work, we report measurements on the muon content (Eth > 230 MeV) of extensive air showers (EAS) induced by cosmic rays with primary energy from 10 PeV up to 1 EeV performed with the KASCADE-Grande experiment. The measurements are confronted with SIBYLL 2.3. The results are focused on the dependence of the total muon number and the lateral density distribution of muons in EAS on the zenith angle and the total number of charged particles in the shower. We also present updated results of a detailed study of the attenuation length of shower muons, which reveal a deviation between the measured data and the predictions of the post-LHC hadronic interaction models SIBYLL 2.3, QGSJET-II-04 and EPOS-LHC.
Collapse
|
11
|
Chiavassa A, Apel W, Arteaga-Velázquez J, Bekk K, Bertaina M, Blümer J, Bozdog H, Brancus I, Cantoni E, Cossavella F, Daumiller K, de Souza V, Di Pierro F, Doll P, Engel R, Fuhrmann D, Gherghel-Lascu A, Gils H, Glasstetter R, Grupen C, Haungs A, Heck D, Hörandel J, Huber D, Huege T, Kampert KH, Kang D, Klages H, Link K, Łuczak P, Mathes H, Mayer H, Milke J, Mitrica B, Morello C, Oehlschläger J, Ostapchenko S, Palmieri N, Pierog T, Rebel H, Roth M, Schieler H, Schoo S, Schröder F, Sima O, Toma G, Trinchero G, Ulrich H, Weindl A, Wochele J, Zabierowski J. Summary of the main results of the KASCADE and KASCADE-Grande experiments. EPJ Web Conf 2019. [DOI: 10.1051/epjconf/201920803002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The KASCADE and KASCADE-Grande experiments operated in KIT-Campus North, Karlsruhe (Germany) from 1993 to 2012. The two experiments studied primary cosmic rays in the energy range from 1014 eV to 1018 eV, investigating the change of slope of the spectrum detected at 2 - 4 × 1015 eV, the so called knee. We briefly review the performance of the experiments and then the main results obtained in the operation of both experiments: the test of hadronic interaction models, the all particle primary spectrum, the elemental composition of primary cosmic rays (with the first claim of a knee-like feature of the heavy primaries spectrum) and the search for large scale anisotropies.
Collapse
|
12
|
Ribeiro DE, Glaser T, Oliveira-Giacomelli Á, Ulrich H. Purinergic receptors in neurogenic processes. Brain Res Bull 2018; 151:3-11. [PMID: 30593881 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2018] [Revised: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Neurogenesis is a process of generating functional neurons, which occurs during embryonic and adult stages in mammals. While neurogenesis during development phase is characterized by intensive proliferation activity in all regions of the brain to form the architecture and neural function of the nervous system, adult neurogenesis occurs with less intensity in two brain regions and is involved in the maintenance of neurogenic niches, local repair, memory and cognitive functions in the hippocampus. Taking such differences into account, the understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in cell differentiation in developmental stages and maintenance of the nervous system is an important research target. Although embryonic and adult neurogenesis presents several differences, signaling through purinergic receptors participates in this process throughout life. For instance, while embryonic neurogenesis involves P2X7 receptor down-regulation and calcium waves triggered by P2Y1 receptor stimulation, adult neurogenesis may be enhanced by increased activity of A2A and P2Y1 receptors and impaired by A1, P2Y13 and P2X7 receptor stimulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D E Ribeiro
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, 05508-900, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 748, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - T Glaser
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, 05508-900, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 748, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Á Oliveira-Giacomelli
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, 05508-900, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 748, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - H Ulrich
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, 05508-900, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 748, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Nascimento I, Lima M, Mavri J, Smuc T, Nery A, Peterka M, Sogayar M, Ulrich H. P18 Targeting Lung Cancer Initiating Cells by Aptamers. J Thorac Oncol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2018.07.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
|
14
|
Arteaga-Velázquez J, Rivera-Rangel D, Apel W, Bekk K, Bertaina M, Blümer J, Bozdog H, Brancus I, Cantoni E, Chiavassa A, Cossavella F, Daumiller K, Souza VD, Pierro FD, Doll P, Engel R, Fuhrmann D, Gherghel-Lascu A, Gils H, Glasstetter R, Grupen C, Haungs A, Heck D, Hörandel J, Huege T, Kampert K, Kang D, Klages H, Link K, Łuczak P, Mathes H, Mayer H, Milke J, Mitrica B, Morello C, Oehlschläger J, Ostapchenko S, Pierog T, Rebel H, Roth M, Schieler H, Schoo S, Schröder F, Sima O, Toma G, Trinchero G, Ulrich H, Weindl A, Wochele J, Zabierowski J. Tests of the SIBYLL 2.3 high-energy hadronic interaction model using the KASCADE-Grande muon data. EPJ Web of Conferences 2018. [DOI: 10.1051/epjconf/201817207003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The KASCADE-Grande observatory was a ground-based air shower array dedicated to study the energy and composition of cosmic rays in the energy interval E = 1 PeV –1 EeV. The experiment consisted of different detector systems which allowed the simultaneous measurement of distinct components of air showers (EAS), such as the muon content. In this contribution, we study the total muon number and the lateral density distribution of muons in EAS detected by KASCADE-Grande as a function of the zenith angle and the total number of charged particles. The attenuation length of the muon content of EAS is also measured. The results are compared with the predictions of the SIBYLL 2.3 high-energy hadronic interaction model.
Collapse
|
15
|
Affiliation(s)
- R.R. Resende
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, SP, Brazil
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - H.A.M. Torres
- Departamento de Biofísica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - K.K. Yuahasi
- Departamento de Neurologia e Neurocirurgia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil. Present address
| | - P Majumder
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, SP, Brazil
| | - H Ulrich
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Martínez-Ramírez AS, Díaz-Muñoz M, Battastini AM, Campos-Contreras A, Olvera A, Bergamin L, Glaser T, Jacintho Moritz CE, Ulrich H, Vázquez-Cuevas FG. Cellular Migration Ability Is Modulated by Extracellular Purines in Ovarian Carcinoma SKOV-3 Cells. J Cell Biochem 2017; 118:4468-4478. [PMID: 28464260 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.26104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular nucleotides and nucleosides have emerged as important elements regulating tissue homeostasis. Acting through specific receptors, have the ability to control gene expression patterns to direct cellular fate. We observed that SKOV-3 cells express the ectonucleotidases: ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase 1 (ENPP1), ecto-5'-nucleotidase (NT5E), and liver alkaline phosphatase (ALPL). Strikingly, in pulse and chase experiments supplemented with ATP, SKOV-3 cells exhibited low catabolic efficiency in the conversion of ADP into AMP, but they were efficient in converting AMP into adenosine. Since these cells release ATP, we proposed that the conversion of ADP into AMP is a regulatory node associated with the migratory ability and the mesenchymal characteristics shown by SKOV-3 cells under basal conditions. The landscape of gene expression profiles of SKOV-3 cell cultures treated with apyrase or adenosine demonstrated similarities (e.g., decrease FGF16 transcript) and differences (e.g., the negative regulation of Wnt 2, and 10B by adenosine). Thus, in SKOV-3 we analyzed the migratory ability and the expression of epithelium to mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers in response to apyrase. Apyrase-treatment favored the epithelial-like phenotype, as revealed by the re-location of E-cadherin to the cell to cell junctions. Pharmacological approaches strongly suggested that the effect of Apyrase involved the accumulation of extracellular adenosine; this notion was strengthened when the incubation of the SKOV-3 cell with α,β-methylene ADP (CD73 inhibitor) or adenosine deaminase was sufficient to abolish the effect of apyrase on cell migration. Overall, adenosine signaling is a fine tune mechanism in the control of cell phenotype in cancer. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4468-4478, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A S Martínez-Ramírez
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Boulevard Juriquilla 3001, Juriquilla Querétaro, CP 76230, Querétaro, México
| | - M Díaz-Muñoz
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Boulevard Juriquilla 3001, Juriquilla Querétaro, CP 76230, Querétaro, México
| | - A M Battastini
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas e da Saúde, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - A Campos-Contreras
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Boulevard Juriquilla 3001, Juriquilla Querétaro, CP 76230, Querétaro, México
| | - A Olvera
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Boulevard Juriquilla 3001, Juriquilla Querétaro, CP 76230, Querétaro, México
| | - L Bergamin
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, Sao Paulo, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - T Glaser
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, Sao Paulo, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - C E Jacintho Moritz
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas e da Saúde, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - H Ulrich
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, Sao Paulo, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - F G Vázquez-Cuevas
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Boulevard Juriquilla 3001, Juriquilla Querétaro, CP 76230, Querétaro, México
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Haungs A, Apel W, Arteaga-Velázquez J, Bekk K, Bertaina M, Blümer J, Bozdog H, Brancus I, Cantoni E, Chiavassa A, Cossavella F, Daumiller K, Souza VD, Pierro FD, Doll P, Engel R, Fuhrmann D, Gherghel-Lascu A, Gils H, Glasstetter R, Grupen C, Heck D, Hörandel J, Huege T, Kampert KH, Kang D, Klages H, Link K, Łuczak P, Mathes H, Mayer H, Milke J, Mitrica B, Morello C, Oehlschläger J, Ostapchenko S, Pierog T, Rebel H, Roth M, Schieler H, Schoo S, Schröder F, Sima O, Toma G, Trinchero G, Ulrich H, Weindl A, Wochele J, Zabierowski J. KASCADE-Grande: Composition studies in the view of the post-LHC hadronic interaction models. EPJ Web Conf 2017. [DOI: 10.1051/epjconf/201714513001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
18
|
Ulrich H, Freier KP, Gierig M. Getting on with persistent pollutants: Decreasing trends of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in sewage sludge. Chemosphere 2016; 161:527-535. [PMID: 27472434 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.07.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Revised: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Sewage sludge can be a relevant source of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) for the environment. In order to reduce emissions from this source, Bavarian authorities enforced in 2008 an analysis of PFAAs from sewage sludge derived from municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). 4981 sludge samples from 1165 different WWTPs were analyzed between 2008 and 2013 for 11 PFAAs compounds. During this period, 71 WWTPs exceeded the precautionary limit of 125 μg kg(-1) dm of total PFAAs in sludge samples at least once with a decreasing tendency. The yearly exceedances of the investigated WWTPs decreased from 6% in 2008 to 0.8% in 2013. At the same time, the percentage of uncontaminated WWTPs increased from 33% to 65%. Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) was the predominant compound found in 41% of all sludge samples. Perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA) was detected in 19% and Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in 7%. Very high PFAAs concentrations (>500 μg kg(-1) dm) in sewage sludge were generally caused by firefighting foams containing PFAAs or emissions from PFAAs-using industries including metal plating, textile, leather or paper industries. Trend analyses of the six year period show that PFAAs contamination in sewage sludge clearly decreased for 47% of the WWTPs. However, for 16% of the WWTPs an increasing trend was detected, even though the concentration levels were below the precautionary limit. During the six years of investigation the load of total PFAAs in sewage sludge was reduced by more than 90%, from 17 t a(-1) in 2008 to 1.5 t a(-1) in 2013.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Ulrich
- Bavarian Environment Agency, Demollstraße 31, D-82407 Wielenbach, Germany
| | - Korbinian P Freier
- Bavarian Environment Agency, Bürgermeister-Ulrich-Straße 160, D-86179 Augsburg, Germany; Research Unit Sustainability and Global Change, Center for Earth System Research and Sustainability (CEN), University of Hamburg, Grindelberg 5, D- 20144 Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Michael Gierig
- Bavarian Environment Agency, Demollstraße 31, D-82407 Wielenbach, Germany; Bavarian Environment Agency, Bürgermeister-Ulrich-Straße 160, D-86179 Augsburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Affiliation(s)
- H.E. Reymore
- The Upjohn Company D. S. Gilmore Research Laboratories North Haven, CT 06473
| | - R.J. Lockwood
- The Upjohn Company D. S. Gilmore Research Laboratories North Haven, CT 06473
| | - H. Ulrich
- The Upjohn Company D. S. Gilmore Research Laboratories North Haven, CT 06473
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Affiliation(s)
- H. Ulrich
- The Upjohn Company Donald S. Gilmore Research Labs North Haven, Ct 06473
| | - H.W. Bonk
- The Upjohn Company Donald S. Gilmore Research Labs North Haven, Ct 06473
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lahm H, Doppler SA, Dreßen M, Adamczyk K, Deutsch MA, Ulrich H, Schiemann M, Lange R, Krane M. Detection of Intracellular Gene Expression in Live Cells of Murine, Human and Porcine Origin Using Fluorescence-labeled Nanoparticles. J Vis Exp 2015. [PMID: 26650934 PMCID: PMC4692708 DOI: 10.3791/53268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The reprogramming of somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS) has successfully been performed in different mammalian species including mouse, rat, human, pig and others. The verification of iPS clones mainly relies on the detection of the endogenous expression of different pluripotency genes. These genes mostly represent transcription factors which are located in the cell nucleus. Traditionally, the proof of their endogenous expression is supplied by immunohistochemical staining after fixation of the cells. This approach requires replicate cultures of each clone at this early stage to preserve validated clones for further experiments. The present protocol describes an approach with gene-specific nanoparticles which allows the evaluation of intracellular gene expression directly in live cells by fluorescence. The nanoparticles consist of a central gold particle coupled to a capture strand carrying a sequence complementary to the target mRNA as well as a quenched reporter strand. These nanoparticles are actively endocytosed and the target mRNA displaces the reporter strand which then start to fluoresce. Therefore, specific target gene expression can be detected directly under the microscope. In addition, the emitted fluorescence allows the identification, isolation and enrichment of cells expressing a specific gene by flow cytometry. This method can be applied directly to live cells in culture without any manipulation of the target cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harald Lahm
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München;
| | - Stefanie A Doppler
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München
| | - Martina Dreßen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München
| | - Klaudia Adamczyk
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München
| | - Marcus-André Deutsch
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München
| | - Hanna Ulrich
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology, and Hygiene, Technische Universität München
| | - Matthias Schiemann
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology, and Hygiene, Technische Universität München; Clinical Cooperation Groups: "Antigen-specific Immunotherapy" and "Immune Monitoring", Helmholtz Center Munich (Neuhererg), Technische Universität München
| | - Rüdiger Lange
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) - Partner site Munich Heart Alliance
| | - Markus Krane
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) - Partner site Munich Heart Alliance
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Łuczak P, Apel W, Arteaga-Velázquez J, Bekk K, Bertaina M, Blümer J, Bozdog H, Brancus I, Cantoni E, Chiavassa A, Cossavella F, Curcio C, Daumiller K, Souza VD, Pierro FD, Doll P, Engel R, Engler J, Fuchs B, Fuhrmann D, Gils H, Glasstetter R, Grupen C, Haungs A, Heck D, Hörandel J, Huber D, Huege T, Kampert KH, Kang D, Klages H, Link K, Ludwig M, Mathes H, Mayer H, Melissas M, Milke J, Mitrica B, Morello C, Oehlschläger J, Ostapchenko S, Palmieri N, Petcu M, Pierog T, Rebel H, Roth M, Schieler H, Schoo S, Schröder F, Sima O, Toma G, Trinchero G, Ulrich H, Weindl A, Wochele J, Zabierowski J. The 〈 ln A 〉 study with the Muon tracking detector in the KASCADE-Grande experiment – comparison of hadronic interaction models. EPJ Web of Conferences 2015. [DOI: 10.1051/epjconf/20159913001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
23
|
Arteaga-Velázquez J, Apel W, Bekk K, Bertaina M, Blümer J, Bozdog H, Brancus I, Cantoni E, Chiavassa A, Cossavella F, Daumiller K, Souza VD, Pierro FD, Doll P, Engel R, Engler J, Fuchs B, Fuhrmann D, Gherghel-Lascu A, Gils H, Glasstetter R, Grupen C, Haungs A, Heck D, Hörandel J, Huber D, Huege T, Kampert KH, Kang D, Klages H, Link K, Łuczak P, Mathes H, Mayer H, Milke J, Mitrica B, Morello C, Oehlschläger J, Ostapchenko S, Palmieri N, Petcu M, Pierog T, Rebel H, Roth M, Schieler H, Schoo S, Schröder F, Sima O, Toma G, Trinchero G, Ulrich H, Weindl A, Wochele J, Zabierowski J. Confronting the EPOS-LHC model predictions on the charged particle and muon attenuation lengths of EAS with the measurements of the KASCADE-Grande observatory. EPJ Web of Conferences 2015. [DOI: 10.1051/epjconf/20159912002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
24
|
Ulrich H, Bocsi J, Glaser T, Tárnok A. Cytometry in the brain: studying differentiation to diagnostic applications in brain disease and regeneration therapy. Cell Prolif 2014; 47:12-9. [PMID: 24450810 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2013] [Accepted: 11/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
During brain development, a population of uniform embryonic cells migrates and differentiates into a large number of neural phenotypes - origin of the enormous complexity of the adult nervous system. Processes of cell proliferation, differentiation and programmed death of no longer required cells, do not occur only during embryogenesis, but are also maintained during adulthood and are affected in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disease states. As neurogenesis is an endogenous response to brain injury, visible as proliferation (of to this moment silent stem or progenitor cells), its further stimulation can present a treatment strategy in addition to stem cell transfer for cell regeneration therapy. Concise techniques for studying such events in vitro and in vivo permit understanding of underlying mechanisms. Detection of subtle physiological alterations in brain cell proliferation and neurogenesis can be explored, that occur during environmental stimulation, exercise and ageing. Here, we have collected achievements in the field of basic research on applications of cytometry, including automated imaging for quantification of morphological or fluorescence-based parameters in cell cultures, towards imaging of three-dimensional brain architecture together with DNA content and proliferation data. Multi-parameter and more recently in vivo flow cytometry procedures, have been developed for quantification of phenotypic diversity and cell processes that occur during brain development as well as in adulthood, with importance for therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Ulrich
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, S.P 05508-900, Brazil
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Torres-Rivera W, Pérez D, Park KY, Carrasco M, Platt MO, Eterović VA, Ferchmin PA, Ulrich H, Martins AH. Kinin-B2 receptor exerted neuroprotection after diisopropylfluorophosphate-induced neuronal damage. Neuroscience 2013; 247:273-9. [PMID: 23735753 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.05.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2013] [Revised: 05/23/2013] [Accepted: 05/24/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The kinin-B2 receptor (B2BKR) activated by its endogenous ligand bradykinin participates in various metabolic processes including the control of arterial pressure and inflammation. Recently, functions for this receptor in brain development and protection against glutamate-provoked excitotoxicity have been proposed. Here, we report neuroprotective properties for bradykinin against organophosphate poisoning using acute hippocampal slices as an in vitro model. Following slice perfusion for 10min with diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) to initiate the noxious stimulus, responses of pyramidal neurons upon an electric impulse were reduced to less than 30% of control amplitudes. Effects on synaptic-elicited population spikes were reverted when preparations had been exposed to bradykinin 30min after challenging with DFP. Accordingly, bradykinin-induced population spike recovery was abolished by HOE-140, a B2BKR antagonist. However, the kinin-B1 receptor (B1BKR) agonist Lys-des-Arg(9)-bradykinin, inducing the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK/MAPK) and cell death, abolished bradykinin-mediated neuroprotection, an effect, which was reverted by the ERK inhibitor PD98059. In agreement with pivotal B1BKR functions in this process, antagonism of endogenous B1BKR activity alone was enough for restoring population spike activity. On the other hand pralidoxime, an oxime, reactivating acetylcholinesterase (AChE) after organophosphate poisoning, induced population spike recovery after DFP exposure in the presence of bradykinin and Lys-des-Arg(9)-bradykinin. Lys-des-Arg(9)-bradykinin did not revert protection exerted by pralidoxime, however when instead bradykinin and Ly-des-Arg(9)-bradykinin were superfused together, recovery of population spikes diminished. These findings again confirm the neuroprotective feature of bradykinin, which is, diminished by its endogenous metabolites, stimulating the B1BKR, providing a novel understanding of the physiological roles of these receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W Torres-Rivera
- Department of Biochemistry, Universidad Central del Caribe, Bayamón, PR 00956, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Apel WD, Arteaga-Velàzquez JC, Bekk K, Bertaina M, Blümer J, Bozdog H, Brancus IM, Cantoni E, Chiavassa A, Cossavella F, Daumiller K, de Souza V, Di Pierro F, Doll P, Engel R, Engler J, Finger M, Fuchs B, Fuhrmann D, Gils HJ, Glasstetter R, Grupen C, Haungs A, Heck D, Hörandel JR, Huber D, Huege T, Kampert KH, Kang D, Klages HO, Link K, Łuczak P, Ludwig M, Mathes HJ, Mayer HJ, Melissas M, Milke J, Mitrica B, Morello C, Oehlschläger J, Ostapchenko S, Palmieri N, Petcu M, Pierog T, Rebel H, Roth M, Schieler H, Schoo S, Schröder FG, Sima O, Toma G, Trinchero GC, Ulrich H, Weindl A, Wochele J, Wommer M, Zabierowski J. Ankle-like feature in the energy spectrum of light elements of cosmic rays observed with KASCADE-Grande. Int J Clin Exp Med 2013. [DOI: 10.1103/physrevd.87.081101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
27
|
Arteaga-Velázquez J, Apel W, Bekk K, Bertaina M, Blümer J, Bozdog H, Brancus I, Cantoni E, Chiavassa A, Cossavella F, Daumiller K, de Souza V, Di Pierro F, Doll P, Engel R, Engler J, Finger M, Fuchs B, Fuhrmann D, Gils H, Glasstetter R, Grupen C, Haungs A, Heck D, Hörandel J, Huber D, Huege T, Kampert KH, Kang D, Klages H, Link K, Łuczak P, Ludwig M, Mathes H, Mayer H, Melissas M, Milke J, Mitrica B, Morello C, Oehlschläger J, Ostapchenko S, Palmieri N, Petcu M, Pierog T, Rebel H, Roth M, Schieler H, Schoo S, Schröder FG, Sima O, Toma G, Trinchero G, Ulrich H, Weindl A, Wochele J, Wommer M, Zabierowski J. Test of hadronic interaction models with the KASCADE-Grande muon data. EPJ Web of Conferences 2013. [DOI: 10.1051/epjconf/20135207002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
28
|
Apel WD, Arteaga-Velázquez JC, Bekk K, Bertaina M, Blümer J, Bozdog H, Brancus IM, Buchholz P, Cantoni E, Chiavassa A, Cossavella F, Daumiller K, de Souza V, Di Pierro F, Doll P, Engel R, Engler J, Finger M, Fuhrmann D, Ghia PL, Gils HJ, Glasstetter R, Grupen C, Haungs A, Heck D, Hörandel JR, Huber D, Huege T, Isar PG, Kampert KH, Kang D, Klages HO, Link K, Łuczak P, Ludwig M, Mathes HJ, Mayer HJ, Melissas M, Milke J, Mitrica B, Morello C, Navarra G, Oehlschläger J, Ostapchenko S, Over S, Palmieri N, Petcu M, Pierog T, Rebel H, Roth M, Schieler H, Schröder FG, Sima O, Toma G, Trinchero GC, Ulrich H, Weindl A, Wochele J, Wommer M, Zabierowski J. Kneelike structure in the spectrum of the heavy component of cosmic rays observed with KASCADE-Grande. Phys Rev Lett 2011; 107:171104. [PMID: 22107501 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.107.171104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2011] [Revised: 08/25/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
We report the observation of a steepening in the cosmic ray energy spectrum of heavy primary particles at about 8×10(16) eV. This structure is also seen in the all-particle energy spectrum, but is less significant. Whereas the "knee" of the cosmic ray spectrum at 3-5×10(15) eV was assigned to light primary masses by the KASCADE experiment, the new structure found by the KASCADE-Grande experiment is caused by heavy primaries. The result is obtained by independent measurements of the charged particle and muon components of the secondary particles of extensive air showers in the primary energy range of 10(16) to 10(18) eV. The data are analyzed on a single-event basis taking into account also the correlation of the two observables.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W D Apel
- Institut für Kernphysik, Karlsruher Institut für Technologie, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Morais K, Hayashi M, Bruni F, Lopes-Ferreira M, Camargo A, Ulrich H, Lameu C. Bj-PRO-5a, a natural angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, promotes vasodilatation mediated by both bradykinin B2 and M1 muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. Biochem Pharmacol 2011; 81:736-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2010.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2010] [Revised: 11/12/2010] [Accepted: 12/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
30
|
Abstract
While substantial knowledge on the occurrence of pharmaceuticals in the environment is available, their behavior and fate in surface waters is still poorly understood. Therefore, the aims of this study were to analyze the short-term dynamics of selected pharmaceuticals along a 13.6 km long river stretch downstream of a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), and to quantify their attenuation by a mass balance approach. Four acidic pharmaceuticals (bezafibrate, clofibric acid, diclofenac, naproxen) with different attenuation properties were measured over a period of three weeks at high temporal resolution, and in situ photolysis experiments were carried out. The average concentrations of pharmaceuticals were between 9 +/- 4 and 339 +/- 133 ng L(-1), corresponding to loads between 1.9 +/- 1.2 and 63 +/- 37 g d(-1) (n = 134). The temporal dynamics of pharmaceuticals was closely related to discharge of the WWTP and precipitation, and highest concentrations were observed at the beginning of a discharge event. During a dry period, naproxen was eliminated along the river stretch with a dissipation time (DT(50)) of 3.6 +/- 2.1 days while the other compounds did not exhibit significant attenuation. As photolysis and other abiotic processes were of limited quantitative relevance, the attenuation of naproxen can most likely be attributed to biotransformation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Radke
- Department of Hydrology, BayCEER, University of Bayreuth, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Resende RR, Britto LRG, Ulrich H. Pharmacological properties of purinergic receptors and their effects on proliferation and induction of neuronal differentiation of P19 embryonal carcinoma cells. Int J Dev Neurosci 2008; 26:763-77. [PMID: 18675894 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2008.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2008] [Revised: 07/01/2008] [Accepted: 07/01/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We have used P19 embryonal carcinoma cells as in vitro model for early neurogenesis to study ionotropic P2X and metabotropic P2Y receptor-induced Ca(2+) transients and their participation in induction of proliferation and differentiation. In embryonic P19 cells, P2Y(1), P2Y(2) and P2X(4) receptors or P2X-heteromultimers with similar P2X(4) pharmacology were responsible for ATP and ATP analogue-induced Ca(2+) transients. In neuronal-differentiated cells, P2Y(2,) P2Y(6), P2X(2) and possibly P2X(2)/P2X(6) heteromeric receptors were the major mediators of the elevations in intracellular free calcium concentration [Ca(2+)](i). We have collected evidence for the involvement of metabotropic purinergic receptors in proliferation induction of undifferentiated and neural progenitor cells by using a BrdU-incorporation assay. ATP-, UTP-, ADP-, 2-MeS-ATP- and ADP-betaS-induced proliferation in P19 cells was mediated by P2Y(1) and P2Y(2) receptors as judged from pharmacological profiles of receptor responses. ATP-provoked acceleration of neuronal differentiation, determined by analysis of nestin and neuron-specific enolase gene and protein expression, also resulted from P2Y(1) and P2Y(2) receptor activation. Proliferation- and differentiation-induction involved the activation of inositol-trisphosphate sensitive intracellular Ca(2+) stores.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R R Resende
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
The mechanism of eupalmerin acetate (EUAC) actions on the embryonic muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) in BC3H-1 cells was studied by using whole-cell and single-channel patch-clamp current measurements. With whole-cell currents, EUAC did not act as an agonist on this receptor. Coapplication of 30 microM EUAC with 50 microM, 100 microM, or 500 microM carbamoylcholine (CCh) reversibly inhibited the current amplitude, whereas, with 20 microM CCh, current was increased above control values in the presence of EUAC. EUAC concentration curves (0.01-40 microM) obtained with 100 microM and 500 microM CCh displayed slope coefficients, n(H), significantly smaller than one, suggesting that EUAC bound to several sites with widely differing affinities on the receptor molecule. The apparent rate of receptor desensitization in the presence of EUAC and CCh was either slower than or equal to that obtained with CCh alone. The major finding from single-channel studies was that EUAC did not affect single-channel conductance or the ability of CCh to interact with the receptor. Instead, EUAC acted by increasing the channel closing rate constant. The results are not consistent with the competitive model for EUAC inhibition, with the sequential open-channel block model, or with inhibition by increased desensitization. The data are best accounted for by a model in which EUAC acts by closed-channel block at low concentrations, by positive modulation at intermediate concentrations, and by negative allosteric modulation of the open channel at high concentrations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Ulrich
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Resende R, Alves A, Britto L, Ulrich H. Role of acetylcholine receptors in proliferation and differentiation of P19 embryonal carcinoma cells. Exp Cell Res 2008; 314:1429-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2008.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2007] [Revised: 12/26/2007] [Accepted: 01/06/2008] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
34
|
Ulrich H, Awiszus F, Merk H, Neumann H. Mittelfristige Nachuntersuchungsergebnisse der Endoprothetik am Schultergelenk*. AKTUEL RHEUMATOL 2008. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1043741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
35
|
Resende R, Torres H, Yuahasi K, Majumder P, Ulrich H. Delivery systems for in vivo use of nucleic Acid drugs. Drug Target Insights 2007; 2:183-96. [PMID: 21901073 PMCID: PMC3155220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The notorious biotechnological advance of the last few decades has allowed the development of experimental methods for understanding molecular mechanisms of genes and new therapeutic approaches. Gene therapy is maturing into a viable, practical method with the potential to cure a variety of human illnesses. Some nucleic-acid-based drugs are now available for controlling the progression of genetic diseases by inhibiting gene expression or the activity of their gene products. New therapeutic strategies employ a wide range of molecular tools such as bacterial plasmids containing transgenic inserts, RNA interference and aptamers. A nucleic-acid based constitution confers a lower immunogenic potential and as result of the high stringency selection of large molecular variety, these drugs have high affinity and selectivity for their targets. However, nucleic acids have poor biostability thus requiring chemical modifications and delivery systems to maintain their activity and ease their cellular internalization. This review discusses some of the mechanisms of action and the application of therapies based on nucleic acids such as aptamers and RNA interference as well as platforms for cellular uptake and intracellular delivery of therapeutic oligonucleotides and their trade-offs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R.R Resende
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, SP, Brazil
| | - H.A.M Torres
- Departamento de Biofísica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - K.K Yuahasi
- Departamento de Neurologia e Neurocirurgia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - P Majumder
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, SP, Brazil
| | - H Ulrich
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
In this study, histomorphometrical parameters of the peri-implant bone remodeling around degrading open-porous scaffolds made of magnesium alloy AZ91D were investigated and compared with the peri-implant bone remodeling around an autologous bone transplant in the contralateral side in a rabbit model after 3 and 6 months. Osteoblast activity was displayed by collagen I (alpha 2) mRNA in situ hybridization. Major scaffold degradation was completed within 3 months after implantation showing no osteolysis around the scaffolds, both after 3 and 6 months. Enhanced formation of unmineralized extracellular matrix and an enhanced mineral apposition rate adjacent to the degrading magnesium scaffolds were accompanied by an increased osteoclastic bone surface, which resulted in higher bone mass and a tendency to a more mature trabecular bone structure around the magnesium scaffolds compared to the control. These results show that even fast-degrading magnesium scaffolds induce extended peri-implant bone remodeling with a good biocompatibility. In summary, this study shows that degrading magnesium scaffolds promote both bone formation and resorption in a rabbit model and are therefore very promising candidates for the development of novel implants in musculoskeletal surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Witte
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Biomaterials, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Anna-von-Borries-Strasse 1-7, 30625 Hannover, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Current tissue engineering strategies focus on the replacement of pathologically altered tissues by the transplantation of cells in combination with supportive biocompatible scaffolds. Scaffolds for tissue engineering strategies in musculoskeletal research require an appropriate mechanical stability. In recent studies, considerable attention has thus been given to magnesium alloys as biodegradable implants. The aim of this study was to characterize the biocompatibility of magnesium scaffolds by the inflammatory host response. Open porous scaffolds made of the magnesium alloy AZ91D were implanted into the distal femur condyle of rabbits and were compared to autologous bone, which was transplanted into the contralateral condyle in a 3 and 6 months follow-up group. After 3 months, magnesium scaffolds were already largely degraded and most of the original magnesium alloy has disappeared. Concomitantly, a fibrous capsule enclosed the operation site. Histological analysis revealed that the magnesium scaffolds caused no significant harm to their neighboring tissues. This study shows that even fast degrading magnesium scaffolds show a good biocompatibility and react in vivo with an appropriate inflammatory host response. Magnesium alloy based implants are therefore a very promising approach in the development of mechanically suitable and open porous scaffolds for the replacement of subchondral bone in cartilage tissue engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Witte
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Biomaterials, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Anna-von-Borries-Strasse 1-7, 30625 Hannover, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Resende RR, Majumder P, Gomes KN, Britto LRG, Ulrich H. P19 embryonal carcinoma cells as in vitro model for studying purinergic receptor expression and modulation of N-methyl-d-aspartate–glutamate and acetylcholine receptors during neuronal differentiation. Neuroscience 2007; 146:1169-81. [PMID: 17418494 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2007.02.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2006] [Revised: 02/09/2007] [Accepted: 02/12/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The in vitro differentiation of P19 murine embryonal carcinoma cells to neurons resembles developmental stages which are encountered during neuronal development. Three days following induction to neuronal differentiation by retinoic acid, most cells of the P19 population lost expression of the stage specific embryonic antigen (SSEA-1) and expressed the neural progenitor cell specific antigen nestin. Beginning from day 4 of differentiation nestin expression was down-regulated, and expression of neuron-specific enolase as marker of differentiated neurons increased. The molecular mechanisms underlying neuronal differentiation are poorly understood. We have characterized the participation of purinergic ionotropic (P2X) and metabotropic (P2Y) receptors at mRNA transcription and protein levels as well as ATP-induced Ca2+ transients during neuronal differentiation of P19 cells. Gene and protein expression of P2X2, P2X6, P2Y2, and P2Y6 receptors increased during the course of differentiation, whereas P2X3, P2X4, P2Y1 and P2Y4 receptor expression was high in embryonic P19 cells and then decreased following induction of P19 cells to differentiation. P2X1 receptor protein expression was only detected on days 2 and 4 of differentiation. Although P2X5 and P2X7 mRNA transcription was present, no protein expression for this receptor subunit could be detected throughout the differentiation process. In undifferentiated cells, mainly ionotropic P2X receptors contributed to the ATP-induced Ca2+-response. In neuronal-differentiated P19 cells, the ATP-induced Ca2+-response was increased and the metabotropic component predominated. Purinergic receptor function is implicated to participate in neuronal maturation, as cholinergic and glutamate-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) induced calcium responses were affected when cells were differentiated in the presence of purinergic receptor antagonists pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulphonic acid (PPADS), suramin or reactive blue-2. Our data suggest that inhibition of P2Y1 and possibly P2X2 receptors led to a loss of NMDA receptor activity whereas blockade of possibly P2X2 and P2Y2 purinergic receptors during neuronal differentiation of P19 mouse led to inhibition of cholinergic receptor responses.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Blotting, Western
- Cell Differentiation/physiology
- Cell Line
- Embryonal Carcinoma Stem Cells
- Fluorescent Antibody Technique
- Immunohistochemistry
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Microscopy, Confocal
- Neoplastic Stem Cells/metabolism
- Neurons/metabolism
- Purinergic Antagonists
- Purinergic P1 Receptor Antagonists
- Purinergic P2 Receptor Antagonists
- Pyridoxal Phosphate/analogs & derivatives
- Pyridoxal Phosphate/pharmacology
- Receptors, Cholinergic/metabolism
- Receptors, Muscarinic/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Muscarinic/genetics
- Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate/metabolism
- Receptors, Nicotinic/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Nicotinic/genetics
- Receptors, Purinergic/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Purinergic/genetics
- Receptors, Purinergic P1/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Purinergic P1/genetics
- Receptors, Purinergic P2/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Purinergic P2/genetics
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Suramin/pharmacology
- Triazines/pharmacology
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R R Resende
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Nery A, Resende R, Baccin Martins A, Trujillo C, Ulrich H. [P180]: Detection of alpha7 acetylcholine receptor expression and activity during differentiation of pc12 cells to neurons. Int J Dev Neurosci 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2006.09.240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
|
40
|
Ulrich H, Majumder P. Neurotransmitter receptor expression and activity during neuronal differentiation of embryonal carcinoma and stem cells: from basic research towards clinical applications. Cell Prolif 2006; 39:281-300. [PMID: 16872363 PMCID: PMC6496783 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2184.2006.00385.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryonal carcinoma and embryonic stem cells have served as models to understand basic aspects of neuronal differentiation and are promising candidates for regenerative medicine. Besides being well characterized regarding the capability of embryonal carcinoma and embryonic stem cells to be precursors of different tissues, the molecular mechanisms controlling neuronal differentiation are hardly understood. Neuropeptide and neurotransmitter receptors are expressed at early stages of differentiation prior to synaptogenesis, triggering transient changes in calcium concentration and inducing neurone-specific gene expression. In vitro neuronal differentiation of embryonal carcinoma and embryonic stem cells closely resembles early neuronal development in vivo. Murine P19 EC cells are a well-characterized model for in vitro differentiation, which upon treatment with retinoic acid differentiate into neurones. Expression and activity of various receptor proteins is regulated during their differentiation. Stimulation of kinin-B2, endothelin-B, muscarinic acetylcholine, and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors results in transient increases of intracellular free calcium concentration [Ca(2+)](i) in P19 cells undergoing neuronal differentiation, whereas embryonal cells do not respond or show a smaller change in [Ca(2+)](i) than differentiating cells. Receptor inhibition, as studied with the example of the kinin-B2 receptor, aborts neuronal maturation of P19 cells, demonstrating the crucial importance of B2 receptors during the differentiation process. Future success in obtaining desired neuronal phenotypes from pluripotent cells in vitro may offer new therapeutic perspectives for curing genetic and acquired dysfunctions of the developing and adult nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Ulrich
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Caixa Postal 26077, São Paulo 05513-970, Brazil.
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND The treatment of large vessels such as leg veins is successfully performed in clinical practice using pulsed Nd:YAG lasers. However, it is still unclear how laser parameters such as wavelength, fluence and pulse duration influence vessel destruction in leg veins. OBJECTIVES To elucidate the governing parameters in selective photothermolysis of large vessels. METHODS A recently developed mathematical model for photothermolysis has been adapted for the treatment of leg veins. The model was used to analyse the effectiveness of the selective photothermolysis process in laser treatment of leg veins by Nd:YAG at 1064 nm. The efficiency of laser-induced vessel heating was defined as a ratio between the absorbed and delivered energy. RESULTS The efficiency improved with increasing vessel diameter, in agreement with clinical findings in various studies. The pulse duration made a minor contribution for laser fluences of 100-400 J cm(-2), whereas the efficiency was better for a small spot. The use of moderate fluences of 100-200 J cm(-2) reduced excess dermis heating and pain. CONCLUSIONS We provide reference parameters for optimal treatment of leg veins using Nd:YAG lasers at 1064 nm. Our model predicts a maximal efficiency of a range of fluences (100-200 J cm(-2)) and pulse durations (10-100 ms).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W Bäumler
- Department of Dermatology, University of Regensburg, 93042 Regensburg, Germany Vascular Anomalies Centre, Arkansas Children's Hospital, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
The SELEX technique (systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment) provides a powerful tool for the in vitro selection of nucleic acid ligands (aptamers) from combinatorial oligonucleotide libraries against a target molecule. In the beginning of the technique's use, RNA molecules were identified that bind to proteins that naturally interact with nucleic acids or to small organic molecules. In the following years, the use of the SELEX technique was extended to isolate oligonucleotide ligands (aptamers) for a wide range of proteins of importance for therapy and diagnostics, such as growth factors and cell surface antigens. These oligonucleotides bind their targets with similar affinities and specificities as antibodies do. The in vitro selection of oligonucleotides with enzymatic activity, denominated aptazymes, allows the direct transduction of molecular recognition to catalysis. Recently, the use of in vitro selection methods to isolate protein inhibitors has been extended to complex targets, such as membrane-bound receptors, and even entire cells. RNA aptamers have also been expressed in living cells. These aptamers, also called intramers, can be used to dissect intracellular signal transduction pathways. The utility of RNA aptamers for in vivo experiments, as well as for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, is considerably enhanced by chemical modifications, such as substitutions of the 2'-OH groups of the ribose backbone in order to provide resistance against enzymatic degradation in biological fluids. In an alternative approach, Spiegelmers are identified through in vitro selection of an unmodified D-RNA molecule against a mirror-image (i.e. a D-peptide) of a selection target, followed by synthesis of the unnatural nuclease-resistant L-configuration of the RNA aptamer that recognizes the natural configuration of its selection target (i.e. a L-peptide). Recently, nuclease-resistant inhibitory RNA aptamers have been developed against a great variety of targets implicated in disease. Some results have already been obtained in animal models and in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Ulrich
- Department of Biochemistry, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Caixa Postal 26077, São Paulo 05513-970, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Abstract
The applicability of flow cytometry (FCM) to analyse cell-cycle distribution and mitotic cells in Hydra oligactis and Hydra vulgaris is demonstrated. The freshwater polyps H. vulgaris and H. oligactis are well-accepted animal models for studying cell proliferation, regeneration and differentiation. Disintegrated animals were labelled for FCM analysis according to the method of Nuesse et al. [(1990) Flow cytometric analysis of G(1) and G(2)/M-phase subpopulations in mammalian cell nuclei using side scatter and DNA content measurements. Cytometry 11, 813]. Proliferation and regeneration experiments, in the absence or presence of the oligopeptide head activator, were quantified. Cell-cycle analysis of different parts of the animals shows low proliferation in the head region and high proliferation in the gastric and foot regions. Cell-cycle analysis of different parts of Hydra, comparison of H. oligactis and H. vulgaris, as well as pharmacological treatment, yielded results that are in agreement with prior microscopic analysis. Our results demonstrate that FCM is an appropriate technique for quantifying proliferation in this animal model. It can be used for basic research on development, regeneration and differentiation as well as for innovative drug investigation and toxicology studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Ulrich
- Department of Biochemistry, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Coras B, Vogt TH, Ulrich H, Landthaler M, Hohenleutner U. Fumaric acid esters therapy: a new treatment modality in pityriasis rubra pilaris? Br J Dermatol 2005; 152:388-9. [PMID: 15727670 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2005.06356.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
45
|
Falcke H, Apel WD, Badea AF, Bähren L, Bekk K, Bercuci A, Bertaina M, Biermann PL, Blümer J, Bozdog H, Brancus IM, Buitink S, Brüggemann M, Buchholz P, Butcher H, Chiavassa A, Daumiller K, de Bruyn AG, de Vos CM, Di Pierro F, Doll P, Engel R, Gemmeke H, Ghia PL, Glasstetter R, Grupen C, Haungs A, Heck D, Hörandel JR, Horneffer A, Huege T, Kampert KH, Kant GW, Klein U, Kolotaev Y, Koopman Y, Krömer O, Kuijpers J, Lafebre S, Maier G, Mathes HJ, Mayer HJ, Milke J, Mitrica B, Morello C, Navarra G, Nehls S, Nigl A, Obenland R, Oehlschläger J, Ostapchenko S, Over S, Pepping HJ, Petcu M, Petrovic J, Plewnia S, Rebel H, Risse A, Roth M, Schieler H, Schoonderbeek G, Sima O, Stümpert M, Toma G, Trinchero GC, Ulrich H, Valchierotti S, van Buren J, van Cappellen W, Walkowiak W, Weindl A, Wijnholds S, Wochele J, Zabierowski J, Zensus JA, Zimmermann D. Detection and imaging of atmospheric radio flashes from cosmic ray air showers. Nature 2005; 435:313-6. [PMID: 15902250 DOI: 10.1038/nature03614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2005] [Accepted: 04/04/2005] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The nature of ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays (UHECRs) at energies >10(20) eV remains a mystery. They are likely to be of extragalactic origin, but should be absorbed within approximately 50 Mpc through interactions with the cosmic microwave background. As there are no sufficiently powerful accelerators within this distance from the Galaxy, explanations for UHECRs range from unusual astrophysical sources to exotic string physics. Also unclear is whether UHECRs consist of protons, heavy nuclei, neutrinos or gamma-rays. To resolve these questions, larger detectors with higher duty cycles and which combine multiple detection techniques are needed. Radio emission from UHECRs, on the other hand, is unaffected by attenuation, has a high duty cycle, gives calorimetric measurements and provides high directional accuracy. Here we report the detection of radio flashes from cosmic-ray air showers using low-cost digital radio receivers. We show that the radiation can be understood in terms of the geosynchrotron effect. Our results show that it should be possible to determine the nature and composition of UHECRs with combined radio and particle detectors, and to detect the ultrahigh-energy neutrinos expected from flavour mixing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Falcke
- Max-Planck-Institut für Radioastronomie, 53121 Bonn, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Cui Y, Ulrich H, Hess GP. Selection of 2?-Fluoro-modified RNA Aptamers for Alleviation of Cocaine and MK-801Inhibition of the Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor. J Membr Biol 2004; 202:137-49. [PMID: 15798902 DOI: 10.1007/s00232-004-0725-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2004] [Accepted: 11/04/2004] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) belongs to a group of five structurally related proteins that regulate signal transmission between approximately 10(12) cells of the mammalian nervous system. Many therapeutic agents and abused drugs inhibit the nAChR, including the anti-convulsant MK-801 and the abused drug cocaine. Many attempts have been made to find compounds that prevent inhibition by cocaine. Use of transient kinetic techniques to investigate the inhibition of the receptor by MK-801 and cocaine led to an inhibition mechanism not previously proposed. The mechanism led to the development of combinatorially synthesized RNA ligands that alleviate inhibition of the receptor. However, these ligands are relatively unstable. Here we determined whether much more stable 2'-fluoro-modified RNA ligands can be prepared and used to study the alleviation of receptor inhibition. Two classes of 2'-fluoro-modified RNA ligands were obtained: One class binds with higher affinity to the cocaine-binding site on the closed-channel form and, as predicted by the mechanism, inhibits the receptor. The second class binds with equal or higher affinity to the cocaine-binding site on the open-channel form and, as predicted by the mechanism, does not inhibit the receptor, and does alleviate cocaine and MK-801 inhibition of the nAChR. The stability of these 2'-fluoro-RNAs expands the utility of these ligands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Cui
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Biotechnology Building, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Abstract
Patients with end-stage renal disease often suffer from different dermatologic conditions. Reports indicate that 50-100% of patients with end-stage renal disease have at least one cutaneous disorder. The persisting chronic uremia is responsible for a variety of structural and functional skin changes. Dialysis or even renal transplantation leads to an improvement of some uremia associated skin disorders, others however can persist.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Ulrich
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie der Universitätsklinikum Regensburg, Regensburg.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Landthaler M, Ulrich H, Hohenleutner S, Wimmershoff M, Hohenleutner U. Role of Laser Therapy in Dermatology – Clinical Aspects. Dermatology 2004; 208:129-34. [PMID: 15057002 DOI: 10.1159/000076486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2003] [Accepted: 10/19/2003] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Laser therapy has become an integral part of therapeutic alternatives in dermatology. Nevertheless, there are only few statistical data on the role of lasers in everyday practice of dermatological clinics. OBJECTIVE Analysis of laser patients, indications and lasers used. METHODS We analysed 10244 patients treated with laser therapy in the Department of Dermatology at the University of Regensburg from 1992 to 2000. This figure represents 9.6 % of all patients seen during that period. RESULTS Vascular lesions (hemangiomas, port-wine stains, telangiectasias) represented the most common indication (more than 70%) followed by infectious disorders (mostly papillomavirus lesions) as well as the removal of hairs and tattoos. Accordingly, the most frequently used laser was the flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye laser (585 nm) followed by the argon ion, the long-pulse tunable flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye laser, the Q-switch ruby laser, and the CO(2)-laser. In recent years, the percentage of indications and lasers used has changed significantly, reflecting the development of new lasers and the introduction of new indications. CONCLUSIONS The results confirm the important role of laser therapy in dermatology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Landthaler
- Department of Dermatology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Deshpande KS, Hatem C, Karwa M, Ulrich H, Aldricht TK, Kvetan V. The use of inferior vena cava filter as a treatment modality for massive pulmonary embolism. A case series and review of pathophysiology. Respir Med 2002; 96:984-9. [PMID: 12477212 DOI: 10.1053/rmed.2002.1396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The use of inferior vena cava (IVC) filter for massive pulmonary emboli (PE) with cardiopulmonary instability has not been clinically studied. We present a case series of six such patients who received an IVC filter with anticoagulation rather than thrombolysis because of high risk of bleeding. Acute pulmonary embolectomy was considered, but was not possible for a variety of individual clinical situations. These six hospitalized patients prospectively followed during their admission. They were triaged to three medical intensive care units (ICUs) and one surgical ICU in three university teaching hospitals. One patient was transferred from another institution. All six patients had severe hypoxia and tenuous cardiopulmonary status. All required high inspiratory oxygen and hemodynamic support; two required mechanical ventilation and vasopressors. An IVC filter was placed emergently and anticoagulation was started immediately All six patients had resolution of pulmonary thromboemboli (PTE) on anticoagulation while the IVC filter prevented further PE. All six patients were discharged home in their pre-critical illness state. None ofthe patients suffered complications from this therapy and had excellent resolution ofcardiopulmonary collapse. The IVC filter placement prevented further major embolic events while the PTE resolved with anticoagulation. An IVC filter should be considered as an adjunct to anticoagulation therapy for those patients with massive PE and cardiopulmonary instability who are not candidates for thrombolysis, and acute pulmonary embolectomy is not readily available or is of very high risk.
Collapse
|
50
|
|