@article{AkimbekovDigelSherelkhanetal.2020, author = {Akimbekov, Nuraly S. and Digel, Ilya and Sherelkhan, Dinara K. and Lutfor, Afzalunnessa B. and Razzaque, Mohammed S.}, title = {Vitamin D and the Host-Gut Microbiome: A Brief Overview}, series = {Acta Histochemica et Cytochemica}, volume = {53}, journal = {Acta Histochemica et Cytochemica}, number = {3}, publisher = {Japan Society of Histochemistry and Cytochemistry}, address = {Osaka}, issn = {1347-5800}, doi = {10.1267/ahc.20011}, pages = {33 -- 42}, year = {2020}, abstract = {There is a growing body of evidence for the effects of vitamin D on intestinal host-microbiome interactions related to gut dysbiosis and bowel inflammation. This brief review highlights the potential links between vitamin D and gut health, emphasizing the role of vitamin D in microbiological and immunological mechanisms of inflammatory bowel diseases. A comprehensive literature search was carried out in PubMed and Google Scholar using combinations of keywords "vitamin D," "intestines," "gut microflora," "bowel inflammation". Only articles published in English and related to the study topic are included in the review. We discuss how vitamin D (a) modulates intestinal microbiome function, (b) controls antimicrobial peptide expression, and (c) has a protective effect on epithelial barriers in the gut mucosa. Vitamin D and its nuclear receptor (VDR) regulate intestinal barrier integrity, and control innate and adaptive immunity in the gut. Metabolites from the gut microbiota may also regulate expression of VDR, while vitamin D may influence the gut microbiota and exert anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects. The underlying mechanism of vitamin D in the pathogenesis of bowel diseases is not fully understood, but maintaining an optimal vitamin D status appears to be beneficial for gut health. Future studies will shed light on the molecular mechanisms through which vitamin D and VDR interactions affect intestinal mucosal immunity, pathogen invasion, symbiont colonization, and antimicrobial peptide expression.}, language = {en} } @article{PogorelovaRogachevDigeletal.2020, author = {Pogorelova, Natalia and Rogachev, Evgeniy and Digel, Ilya and Chernigova, Svetlana and Nardin, Dmitry}, title = {Bacterial Cellulose Nanocomposites: Morphology and Mechanical Properties}, series = {Materials}, volume = {13}, journal = {Materials}, number = {12}, publisher = {MDPI}, address = {Basel}, isbn = {1996-1944}, doi = {10.3390/ma13122849}, pages = {1 -- 16}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a promising material for biomedical applications due to its unique properties such as high mechanical strength and biocompatibility. This article describes the microbiological synthesis, modification, and characterization of the obtained BC-nanocomposites originating from symbiotic consortium Medusomyces gisevii. Two BC-modifications have been obtained: BC-Ag and BC-calcium phosphate (BC-Ca3(PO4)2). Structure and physicochemical properties of the BC and its modifications were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and infrared Fourier spectroscopy as well as by measurements of mechanical and water holding/absorbing capacities. Topographic analysis of the surface revealed multicomponent thick fibrils (150-160 nm in diameter and about 15 µm in length) constituted by 50-60 nm nanofibrils weaved into a left-hand helix. Distinctive features of Ca-phosphate-modified BC samples were (a) the presence of 500-700 nm entanglements and (b) inclusions of Ca3(PO4)2 crystals. The samples impregnated with Ag nanoparticles exhibited numerous roundish inclusions, about 110 nm in diameter. The boundaries between the organic and inorganic phases were very distinct in both cases. The Ag-modified samples also showed a prominent waving pattern in the packing of nanofibrils. The obtained BC gel films possessed water-holding capacity of about 62.35 g/g. However, the dried (to a constant mass) BC-films later exhibited a low water absorption capacity (3.82 g/g). It was found that decellularized BC samples had 2.4 times larger Young's modulus and 2.2 times greater tensile strength as compared to dehydrated native BC films. We presume that this was caused by molecular compaction of the BC structure.}, language = {en} } @article{AkimbekovQiaoDigeletal.2020, author = {Akimbekov, Nuraly S. and Qiao, Xiaohui and Digel, Ilya and Abdieva, Gulzhamal and Ualieva, Perizat and Zhubanova, Azhar}, title = {The effect of leonardite-derived amendments on soil microbiome structure and potato yield}, series = {Agriculture}, volume = {10}, journal = {Agriculture}, number = {Art. 147}, publisher = {MDPI}, address = {Basel}, doi = {10.3390/agriculture10050147}, pages = {1 -- 17}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Humic substances originating from various organic matters can ameliorate soil properties, stimulate plant growth, and improve nutrient uptake. Due to the low calorific heating value, leonardite is rather unsuitable as fuel. However, it may serve as a potential source of humic substances. This study was aimed at characterizing the leonardite-based soil amendments and examining the effect of their application on the soil microbial community, as well as on potato growth and tuber yield. A high yield (71.1\%) of humic acid (LHA) from leonardite has been demonstrated. Parental leonardite (PL) and LHA were applied to soil prior to potato cultivation. The 16S rRNA sequencing of soil samples revealed distinct relationships between microbial community composition and the application of leonardite-based soil amendments. Potato tubers were planted in pots in greenhouse conditions. The tubers were harvested at the mature stage for the determination of growth and yield parameters. The results demonstrated that the LHA treatments had a significant effect on increasing potato growth (54.9\%) and tuber yield (66.4\%) when compared to the control. The findings highlight the importance of amending leonardite-based humic products for maintaining the biogeochemical stability of soils, for keeping their healthy microbial community structure, and for increasing the agronomic productivity of potato plants.}, language = {en} } @article{HeinEubanksHibberdetal.2020, author = {Hein, Andreas M. and Eubanks, T. Marshall and Hibberd, Adam and Fries, Dan and Schneider, Jean and Lingam, Manasvi and Kennedy, Robert and Perakis, Nikolaos and Dachwald, Bernd and Kervella, Pierre}, title = {Interstellar Now! Missions to and sample returns from nearby interstellar objects}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, pages = {1 -- 8}, year = {2020}, abstract = {The recently discovered first high velocity hyperbolic objects passing through the Solar System, 1I/'Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov, have raised the question about near term missions to Interstellar Objects. In situ spacecraft exploration of these objects will allow the direct determination of both their structure and their chemical and isotopic composition, enabling an entirely new way of studying small bodies from outside our solar system. In this paper, we map various Interstellar Object classes to mission types, demonstrating that missions to a range of Interstellar Object classes are feasible, using existing or near-term technology. We describe flyby, rendezvous and sample return missions to interstellar objects, showing various ways to explore these bodies characterizing their surface, dynamics, structure and composition. Interstellar objects likely formed very far from the solar system in both time and space; their direct exploration will constrain their formation and history, situating them within the dynamical and chemical evolution of the Galaxy. These mission types also provide the opportunity to explore solar system bodies and perform measurements in the far outer solar system.}, language = {en} } @article{DachwaldUlamecPostbergetal.2020, author = {Dachwald, Bernd and Ulamec, Stephan and Postberg, Frank and Sohl, Frank and Vera, Jean-Pierre de and Christoph, Waldmann and Lorenz, Ralph D. and Hellard, Hugo and Biele, Jens and Rettberg, Petra}, title = {Key technologies and instrumentation for subsurface exploration of ocean worlds}, series = {Space Science Reviews}, volume = {216}, journal = {Space Science Reviews}, number = {Art. 83}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Dordrecht}, issn = {1572-9672}, doi = {10.1007/s11214-020-00707-5}, pages = {45}, year = {2020}, abstract = {In this chapter, the key technologies and the instrumentation required for the subsurface exploration of ocean worlds are discussed. The focus is laid on Jupiter's moon Europa and Saturn's moon Enceladus because they have the highest potential for such missions in the near future. The exploration of their oceans requires landing on the surface, penetrating the thick ice shell with an ice-penetrating probe, and probably diving with an underwater vehicle through dozens of kilometers of water to the ocean floor, to have the chance to find life, if it exists. Technologically, such missions are extremely challenging. The required key technologies include power generation, communications, pressure resistance, radiation hardness, corrosion protection, navigation, miniaturization, autonomy, and sterilization and cleaning. Simpler mission concepts involve impactors and penetrators or - in the case of Enceladus - plume-fly-through missions.}, language = {en} } @article{RauschHarbrechtKahmannetal.2020, author = {Rausch, Valentin and Harbrecht, Andreas and Kahmann, Stephanie Lucina and Fenten, Thomas and Jovanovic, Nebojsa and Hackl, Michael and M{\"u}ller, Lars P. and Staat, Manfred and Wegmann, Kilian}, title = {Osteosynthesis of Phalangeal Fractures: Biomechanical Comparison of Kirschner Wires, Plates, and Compression Screws}, series = {The Journal of Hand Surgery}, volume = {45}, journal = {The Journal of Hand Surgery}, number = {10}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {0363-5023}, doi = {10.1016/j.jhsa.2020.04.010}, pages = {987.e1 -- 987.e8}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Purpose The aim of this study was to compare several osteosynthesis techniques (intramedullary headless compression screws, T-plates, and Kirschner wires) for distal epiphyseal fractures of proximal phalanges in a human cadaveric model. Methods A total of 90 proximal phalanges from 30 specimens (index, ring, and middle fingers) were used for this study. After stripping off all soft tissue, a transverse distal epiphyseal fracture was simulated at the proximal phalanx. The 30 specimens were randomly assigned to 1 fixation technique (30 per technique), either a 3.0-mm intramedullary headless compression screw, locking plate fixation with a 2.0-mm T-plate, or 2 oblique 1.0-mm Kirschner wires. Displacement analysis (bending, distraction, and torsion) was performed using optical tracking of an applied random speckle pattern after osteosynthesis. Biomechanical testing was performed with increasing cyclic loading and with cyclic load to failure using a biaxial torsion-tension testing machine. Results Cannulated intramedullary compression screws showed significantly less displacement at the fracture site in torsional testing. Furthermore, screws were significantly more stable in bending testing. Kirschner wires were significantly less stable than plating or screw fixation in any cyclic load to failure test setup. Conclusions Intramedullary compression screws are a highly stable alternative in the treatment of transverse distal epiphyseal phalangeal fractures. Kirschner wires seem to be inferior regarding displacement properties and primary stability. Clinical relevance Fracture fixation of phalangeal fractures using plate osteosynthesis may have the advantage of a very rigid reduction, but disadvantages such as stiffness owing to the more invasive surgical approach and soft tissue irritation should be taken into account. Headless compression screws represent a minimally invasive choice for fixation with good biomechanical properties.}, language = {en} } @article{JungStaat2020, author = {Jung, Alexander and Staat, Manfred}, title = {Erratum to "Modeling and simulation of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiac tissue" [GAMM-Mitteilungen, (2019), 42, 4, 10.1002/gamm.201900002]}, series = {GAMM-Mitteilungen}, volume = {43}, journal = {GAMM-Mitteilungen}, number = {4}, publisher = {Wiley-VCH GmbH}, address = {Weinheim}, issn = {1522-2608}, doi = {10.1002/gamm.202000011}, year = {2020}, language = {en} } @article{RauschKahmannBaltschunetal.2020, author = {Rausch, Valentin and Kahmann, Stephanie Lucina and Baltschun, Christoph and Staat, Manfred and M{\"u}ller, Lars P. and Wegmann, Kilian}, title = {Pressure distribution to the distal biceps tendon at the radial tuberosity: a biomechanical study}, series = {The Journal of Hand Surgery}, volume = {45}, journal = {The Journal of Hand Surgery}, number = {8}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {0363-5023}, doi = {10.1016/j.jhsa.2020.01.006}, pages = {776.e1 -- 776.e9}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Purpose Mechanical impingement at the narrow radioulnar space of the tuberosity is believed to be an etiological factor in the injury of the distal biceps tendon. The aim of the study was to compare the pressure distribution at the proximal radioulnar space between 2 fixation techniques and the intact state. Methods Six right arms and 6 left arms from 5 female and 6 male frozen specimens were used for this study. A pressure transducer was introduced at the height of the radial tuberosity with the intact distal biceps tendon and after 2 fixation methods: the suture-anchor and the cortical button technique. The force (N), maximum pressure (kPa) applied to the radial tuberosity, and the contact area (mm²) of the radial tuberosity with the ulna were measured and differences from the intact tendon were detected from 60° supination to 60° pronation in 15° increments with the elbow in full extension and in 45° and 90° flexion of the elbow. Results With the distal biceps tendon intact, the pressures during pronation were similar regardless of extension and flexion and were the highest at 60° pronation with 90° elbow flexion (23.3 ± 53.5 kPa). After repair of the tendon, the mean peak pressure, contact area, and total force showed an increase regardless of the fixation technique. Highest peak pressures were found using the cortical button technique at 45° flexion of the elbow and 60° pronation. These differences were significantly different from the intact tendon. The contact area was significantly larger in full extension and 15°, 30°, and 60° pronation using the cortical button technique. Conclusions Pressures on the distal biceps tendon at the radial tuberosity increase during pronation, especially after repair of the tendon. Clinical relevance Mechanical impingement could play a role in both the etiology of primary distal biceps tendon ruptures and the complications occurring after fixation of the tendon using certain techniques.}, language = {en} } @article{HorbachStaatPerezVianaetal.2020, author = {Horbach, Andreas and Staat, Manfred and Perez-Viana, Daniel and Simmen, Hans-Peter and Neuhaus, Valentin and Pape, Hans-Christoph and Prescher, Andreas and Ciritsis, Bernhard}, title = {Biomechanical in vitro examination of a standardized low-volume tubular femoroplasty}, series = {Clinical Biomechanics}, volume = {80}, journal = {Clinical Biomechanics}, number = {Art. 105104}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, doi = {10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2020.105104}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Background Osteoporosis is associated with the risk of fractures near the hip. Age and comorbidities increase the perioperative risk. Due to the ageing population, fracture of the proximal femur also proves to be a socio-economic problem. Preventive surgical measures have hardly been used so far. Methods 10 pairs of human femora from fresh cadavers were divided into control and low-volume femoroplasty groups and subjected to a Hayes fall-loading fracture test. The results of the respective localization and classification of the fracture site, the Singh index determined by computed tomography (CT) examination and the parameters in terms of fracture force, work to fracture and stiffness were evaluated statistically and with the finite element method. In addition, a finite element parametric study with different position angles and variants of the tubular geometry of the femoroplasty was performed. Findings Compared to the control group, the work to fracture could be increased by 33.2\%. The fracture force increased by 19.9\%. The used technique and instrumentation proved to be standardized and reproducible with an average poly(methyl methacrylate) volume of 10.5 ml. The parametric study showed the best results for the selected angle and geometry. Interpretation The cadaver studies demonstrated the biomechanical efficacy of the low-volume tubular femoroplasty. The numerical calculations confirmed the optimal choice of positioning as well as the inner and outer diameter of the tube in this setting. The standardized minimally invasive technique with the instruments developed for it could be used in further comparative studies to confirm the measured biomechanical results.}, language = {en} } @article{KnoxBruggemannGossmannetal.2020, author = {Knox, Ronald and Bruggemann, Andrea and Gossmann, Matthias and Thomas, Ulrich and Horv{\´a}th, Andr{\´a}s and Dragicevic, Elena and Stoelzle-Feix, Sonja and Fertig, Niels and Jung, Alexander and Raman, Aravind Hariharan and Staat, Manfred and Linder, Peter}, title = {Combining physiological relevance and throughput for in vitro cardiac contractility measurement}, series = {Biophysical Journal}, volume = {118}, journal = {Biophysical Journal}, number = {Issue 3, Supplement 1}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {0006-3495}, doi = {10.1016/j.bpj.2019.11.3104}, pages = {570a}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Despite increasing acceptance of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) in safety pharmacology, controversy remains about the physiological relevance of existing in vitro models for their mechanical testing. We hypothesize that existing signs of immaturity of the cell models result from an improper mechanical environment. We cultured hiPSC-CMs in a 96-well format on hyperelastic silicone membranes imitating their native mechanical environment, resulting in physiological responses to compound stimuli.We validated cell responses on the FLEXcyte 96, with a set of reference compounds covering a broad range of cellular targets, including ion channel modulators, adrenergic receptor modulators and kinase inhibitors. Acute (10 - 30 min) and chronic (up to 7 days) effects were investigated. Furthermore, the measurements were complemented with electromechanical models based on electrophysiological recordings of the used cell types.hiPSC-CMs were cultured on freely-swinging, ultra-thin and hyperelastic silicone membranes. The weight of the cell culture medium deflects the membranes downwards. Rhythmic contraction of the hiPSC-CMs resulted in dynamic deflection changes which were quantified by capacitive distance sensing. The cells were cultured for 7 days prior to compound addition. Acute measurements were conducted 10-30 minutes after compound addition in standard culture medium. For chronic treatment, compound-containing medium was replaced daily for up to 7 days. Electrophysiological properties of the employed cell types were recorded by automated patch-clamp (Patchliner) and the results were integrated into the electromechanical model of the system.Calcium channel agonist S Bay K8644 and beta-adrenergic stimulator isoproterenol induced significant positive inotropic responses without additional external stimulation. Kinase inhibitors displayed cardiotoxic effects on a functional level at low concentrations. The system-integrated analysis detected alterations in beating shape as well as frequency and arrhythmic events and we provide a quantitative measure of these.}, language = {en} }