Laser bioprinting of human iPSC-derived neural stem cells and neurons: Effect on cell survival, multipotency, differentiation, and neuronal activity

Generation of human neuronal networks by three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting is promising for drug testing and hopefully will allow for the understanding of cellular mechanisms in brain tissue. The application of neural cells derived from human induced-pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) is an obvious choice, since hiPSCs provide access to cells unlimited in number and cell types that could be generated by differentiation. The questions in this regard include which neuronal differentiation stage is optimal for printing of such networks, and to what extent the addition of other cell types, especially astrocytes, supports network formation. These aspects are the focus of the present study, in which we applied a laser-based bioprinting technique and compared hiPSC-derived neural stem cells (NSCs) with neuronal differentiated NSCs, with and without the inclusion of co-printed astrocytes. In this study, we investigated in detail the effects of cell types, printed droplet size, and duration of differentiation before and after printing on viability, as well as proliferation, stemness, differentiation potential, formation of dendritic extensions and synapses, and functionality of the generated neuronal networks. We found a significant dependence of cell viability after dissociation on differentiation stage, but no impact of the printing process. Moreover, we observed a dependence of the abundance of neuronal dendrites on droplet size, a marked difference between printed cells and normal cell culture in terms of further differentiation of the cells, especially differentiation into astrocytes, as well as neuronal network formation and activity. Notably, there was a clear effect of admixed astrocytes on NSCs but not on neurons

Dispensing pico to nanolitre of a natural hydrogel by laser-assisted bioprinting

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Laser-assisted bioprinting of multi-cellular replicates in accordance with CAD blueprint may substantially improve our understandings of fundamental aspects of 3 D cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions <it>in vitro</it>. For predictable printing results, a profound knowledge about effects of different processing parameters is essential for realisation of 3 D cell models with well-defined cell densities.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>Time-resolved imaging of the hydrogel jet dynamics and quantitative assessment of the dependence of printed droplet diameter on the process characteristics were conducted.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>The existence of a counterjet was visualised, proving the bubble collapsing theory for the jet formation. Furthermore, by adjusting the viscosity and height of the applied hydrogel layer in combination with different laser pulse energies, the printing of volumes in the range of 10 to 7000 picolitres was demonstrated. Additionally, the relationship between the viscosity and the layer thickness at different laser pulse energies on the printed droplet volume was identified.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>These findings are essential for the advancement of laser-assisted bioprinting by enabling predictable printing results and the integration of computational methods in the generation of 3 D multi-cellular constructs.</p

Laser bioprinting of human iPSC-derived neural stem cells and neurons: Effect on cell survival, multipotency, differentiation, and neuronal activity

Generation of human neuronal networks by three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting is promising for drug testing and hopefully will allow for the understanding of cellular mechanisms in brain tissue. The application of neural cells derived from human induced-pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) is an obvious choice, since hiPSCs provide access to cells unlimited in number and cell types that could be generated by differentiation. The questions in this regard include which neuronal differentiation stage is optimal for printing of such networks, and to what extent the addition of other cell types, especially astrocytes, supports network formation. These aspects are the focus of the present study, in which we applied a laser-based bioprinting technique and compared hiPSC-derived neural stem cells (NSCs) with neuronal differentiated NSCs, with and without the inclusion of co-printed astrocytes. In this study, we investigated in detail the effects of cell types, printed droplet size, and duration of differentiation before and after printing on viability, as well as proliferation, stemness, differentiation potential, formation of dendritic extensions and synapses, and functionality of the generated neuronal networks. We found a significant dependence of cell viability after dissociation on differentiation stage, but no impact of the printing process. Moreover, we observed a dependence of the abundance of neuronal dendrites on droplet size, a marked difference between printed cells and normal cell culture in terms of further differentiation of the cells, especially differentiation into astrocytes, as well as neuronal network formation and activity. Notably, there was a clear effect of admixed astrocytes on NSCs but not on neurons

Verbindungen des Formeltyps M2El2(OtBu)8

By simple salt-exchange processes the starting materials Na2El2(OtBu)6 (El = Ge, Sn, Pb) can be transformed to germanates, stannates and plumbates of divalent magnesium and divalent transition metals. Two types of compounds are formed in these reactions: MEl2(OtBU)6 [El = Ge, M = Mg (1A), Cr (1B), Mn (1C), Zn (1 F); El = Pb, M Mn (3C), M = Zn (3 F)] and M2El2(OtBu)8 [El = Ge, M = Co (1d), Ni (1e); El = Sn, M = Mg (2a), Cr (2b), Mn (2c), Co (2d), Ni (2e); El = Pb, M = Co (3d)]. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies have been performed on 1C, 1d, 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, and 2e, and the structures have been solved. In 1C the Mn atom occupies the center of an elongated O6 octahedron, the germanium(II) atoms displaying pyramidal coordination by three oxygen atoms. The central molecular cage can be described as two MnO3Ge trigonal bipyramids sharing the common central Mn atom and being wrapped by tert-butyl groups linked to the oxygen atoms. The other compounds of the MEl2(OtBU)6 formula seem to be isostructural with the exception of 3F, which displays a H-1-NMR spectrum which is not compatible with this structure. All X-ray structures of the compounds M2El2(OtBu)8 show the same feature: to a central M2(OtBU)2 four-membered ring are spirocyclically connected two M(OtBu)2El rings through the common metal atoms M. The structure is completed by the coordination of an exocyclic tert-butoxy group to the terminal El atoms. The metal atoms M are therefore quasi tetrahedrally coordinated while the Ge and Sn atoms are in pyramidal three-fold oxygen atom environments. All molecules display an El...M...M...El one-dimensional arrangement. From susceptibility measurements it is apparent, that in the compounds MEl2(OtBu)6 and M2El2(OtBu)8 the transition metal atoms are in high-spin configurations, which is also supported by the UV spectra. Analysis of the structural data of the series 2a-2e reveal important contributions of the electronic environments of the transition metal atoms to the M...M and M...Sn distances. A qualitative MO description is used to explain these features. Again it has been shown that the geometrical softness" of Ge(OtBu)3 and Pb(OtBu)3 is greater than of Sn(OtBu)3, as the former two can accomodate Cr2+ and Mn2+ in a sixfold coordination site by two units, while Sn(OtBu)3 coordinates Cr2+ and Mn2+ with only two alkoxy groups. when 1C and 2d are allowed to react with nonacarbonyldiiron Mn-Ge2(OtBu)6 . 2 Fe(CO)4 (4) and Co2Sn2(OtBu)8 . 2 Fe(CO)4 (5), respectively, are formed. Compound 4 displays presumably five metal atoms in a linear arrangement while 5 has six metallic elements arranged in one dimension. The latter fact has been unambigously proved by an X-ray structure determination

Non-phenacetin analgesics and analgesic nephropathy: Clinical assessment of high users from a case-control study [1]*

Background. A recent large-scale case-control study on analgesic nephropathy (SAN) [1] found no increased risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in users of combined or single formulations of phenacetin-free analgesics. In a subgroup of 22 high users, however, a dose-dependent increased risk was found, which raised the question if these patients presented or not with analgesic nephropathy (AN). Methods. The individual questionnaires of this subgroup of high users were reviewed, and the total lifetime intake of different types of analgesics was calculated. For evidence of AN, the following data were considered: (1) the amount and type of analgesics consumed, (2) the cause of ESRD, as diagnosed by the nephrologist in charge of the patient and (3) renal imaging and other relevant laboratory data. Results. This group of ESRD patients consumed on average 7.8 kg of antipyretic analgesics (range 30.8-2.7 kg) over an average of 21.5 years (range 35-6 years). Single analgesics were exclusively used by 12 patients (54.5%) and combined analgesics by 5 patients (22.7%), while 5 patients used both. None of the patients was diagnosed as having AN, and a review of the questionnaires did not disclose evidence suggestive of AN. The possibility that, irrespective of AN, the analgesic (ab)use contributed to the progression of existing renal diseases cannot be answered in the absence of well-defined criteria. The data supporting the existence of such an analgesic-associated nephropathy (AAN) are, however, not consistent and most likely due to confounding by indication. Conclusion. In a group of ESRD patients with high use of non-phenacetin analgesics, no evidence of AN was found. There is no evidence that (ab)use of analgesics or NSAIDs other than phenacetin leads to a pathologically or clinically defined renal disease that could be named AN or AA

In Vitro Development of Human iPSC-Derived Functional Neuronal Networks on Laser-Fabricated 3D Scaffolds

Neural progenitor cells generated from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are the forefront of ″brain-on-chip″ investigations. Viable and functional hiPSC-derived neuronal networks are shaping powerful in vitro models for evaluating the normal and abnormal formation of cortical circuits, understanding the underlying disease mechanisms, and investigating the response to drugs. They therefore represent a desirable instrument for both the scientific community and the pharmacological industry. However, culture conditions required for the full functional maturation of individual neurons and networks are still unidentified. It has been recognized that three-dimensional (3D) culture conditions can better emulate in vivo neuronal tissue development compared to 2D cultures and thus provide a more desirable in vitro approach. In this paper, we present the design and implementation of a 3D scaffold platform that supports and promotes intricate neuronal network development. 3D scaffolds were produced through direct laser writing by two-photon polymerization (2PP), a high-resolution 3D laser microstructuring technology, using the biocompatible and nondegradable photoreactive resin Dental LT Clear (DClear). Neurons developed and interconnected on a 3D environment shaped by vertically stacked scaffold layers. The developed networks could support different cell types. Starting at the day 50 of 3D culture, neuronal progenitor cells could develop into cortical projection neurons (CNPs) of all six layers, different types of inhibitory neurons, and glia. Additionally and in contrast to 2D conditions, 3D scaffolds supported the long-term culturing of neuronal networks over the course of 120 days. Network health and functionality were probed through calcium imaging, which revealed a strong spontaneous neuronal activity that combined individual and collective events. Taken together, our results highlight advanced microstructured 3D scaffolds as a reliable platform for the 3D in vitro modeling of neuronal functions.publishedVersio

Simulation of Landing and Take-off Noise for Supersonic Transport Aircraft at a Conceptual Design Fidelity Level

The German Aerospace Center has launched an internal project to assess the noise impact associated with supersonic transport aircraft during approach and departure. A dedicated simulation process is established to cover all relevant disciplines, i.e., aircraft and engine design, engine installation effects, flight simulation, and system noise prediction. The core of the simulation process is comprised of methods at the complexity and fidelity level of conceptual aircraft design, i.e., typical overall aircraft design methods and a semi-empirical approach for the noise modeling. Dedicated interfaces allow to process data from high fidelity simulation that will support or even replace initial low fidelity results in the long run. All of the results shown and discussed in this study are limited to the fidelity level of conceptual design. The application of the simulation process to the NASA 55t Supersonic Technology Concept Aeroplane, i.e., based on non-proprietary data for this vehicle, yields similar noise level predictions when compared to the published NASA results. This is used as an initial feasibility check of the new process and confirms the underlying methods and models. Such an initial verification of the process is understood as an essential step due to the lack of available noise data for supersonic transport aircraft in general. The advantageous effect of engine noise shielding on the resulting system noise is demonstrated based on predicted level time histories and certification noise levels. After this initial verification, the process is applied to evaluate a conceptual supersonic transport design based on a PhD thesis with two engines mounted under the wing, which is referred to as aircraft TWO. Full access to this vehicle’s design and performance data allows to investigate the influence of flight procedures on the resulting noise impact along approach and departure. These noise results are then assembled according to proposed Federal Aviation Agency regulations in their Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, e.g., speed limitations, for Supersonic transport noise certification and the regulations from Noise Chapters of the Annex 16 from the International Civil Aviation Organization in order to evaluate the resulting levels as a function of the flight procedure

SARS-CoV-2 antibody prevalence among homeless people and shelter workers in Denmark:a nationwide cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: People experiencing homelessness (PEH) and associated shelter workers may be at higher risk of infection with “Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2” (SARS-CoV-2). The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 among PEH and shelter workers in Denmark. DESIGN AND METHODS: In November 2020, we conducted a nationwide cross-sectional seroprevalence study among PEH and shelter workers at 21 recruitment sites in Denmark. The assessment included a point-of-care test for antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, followed by a questionnaire. The seroprevalence was compared to that of geographically matched blood donors considered as a proxy for the background population, tested using a total Ig ELISA assay. RESULTS: We included 827 participants in the study, of whom 819 provided their SARS-CoV-2 antibody results. Of those, 628 were PEH (median age 50.8 (IQR 40.9–59.1) years, 35.5% female) and 191 were shelter workers (median age 46.6 (IQR 36.1–55.0) years and 74.5% female). The overall seroprevalence was 6.7% and was similar among PEH and shelter workers (6.8% vs 6.3%, p = 0.87); and 12.2% among all participants who engaged in sex work. The overall participant seroprevalence was significantly higher than that of the background population (2.9%, p < 0.001). When combining all participants who reported sex work or were recruited at designated safe havens, we found a significantly increased risk of seropositivity compared to other participants (OR 2.23, 95%CI 1.06–4.43, p = 0.02). Seropositive and seronegative participants reported a similar presence of at least one SARS-CoV-2 associated symptom (49% and 54%, respectively). INTERPRETATIONS: The prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was more than twice as high among PEH and associated shelter workers, compared to the background population. These results could be taken into consideration when deciding in which phase PEH are eligible for a vaccine, as part of the Danish national SARS-CoV-2 vaccination program rollout. FUNDING: TrygFonden and HelseFonden. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13642-7