@article{SprinzlMageleSchoergetal.2023, author = {Sprinzl, Georg Mathias and Magele, Astrid and Schoerg, Philipp and Hagen, Rudolf and Rak, Kristen and Kurz, Anja and Van de Heyning, Paul and Calvino, Miryam and Lassaletta, Luis and Gavil{\´a}n, Javier}, title = {A novel representation of audiological and subjective findings for acoustical, bone conduction and direct drive hearing solutions}, series = {Journal of Personalized Medicine}, volume = {13}, journal = {Journal of Personalized Medicine}, number = {3}, issn = {2075-4426}, doi = {10.3390/jpm13030462}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-311210}, year = {2023}, abstract = {Background: The benefit of hearing rehabilitation is often measured using audiological tests or subjective questionnaires/interviews. It is important to consider both aspects in order to evaluate the overall benefits. Currently, there is no standardized method for reporting combined audiological and patient reported subjective outcome measures in clinical practice. Therefore, this study focuses on showing the patient's audiological, as well as subjective outcomes in one graph using data from an existing study. Method: The present paper illustrated a graph presenting data on four quadrants with audiological and subjective findings. These quadrants represented speech comprehension in quiet (unaided vs. aided) as WRS\% at 65 dB SPL, speech recognition in noise (unaided vs. aided) as SRT dB SNR, sound field threshold (unaided vs. aided) as PTA\(_4\) in dB HL, wearing time and patient satisfaction questionnaire results. Results: As an example, the HEARRING graph in this paper represented audiological and subjective datasets on a single patient level or a cohort of patients for an active bone conduction hearing implant solution. The graph offered the option to follow the user's performance in time. Conclusion: The HEARRING graph allowed representation of a combination of audiological measures with patient reported outcomes in one single graph, indicating the overall benefit of the intervention. In addition, the correlation and consistency between some results (e.g., aided threshold and aided WRS) can be better visualized. Those users who lacked performance benefits on one or more parameters and called for further insight could be visually identified.}, language = {en} } @article{MoratinThoeleLangetal.2023, author = {Moratin, Helena and Th{\"o}le, Anna and Lang, Josephine and Ehret Kasemo, Totta and St{\"o}th, Manuel and Hagen, Rudolf and Scherzad, Agmal and Hackenberg, Stephan}, title = {Ag- but not ZnO-nanoparticles disturb the airway epithelial barrier at subtoxic concentrations}, series = {Pharmaceutics}, volume = {15}, journal = {Pharmaceutics}, number = {10}, issn = {1999-4923}, doi = {10.3390/pharmaceutics15102506}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-357403}, year = {2023}, abstract = {Inhalation is considered to be the most relevant source of human exposure to nanoparticles (NPs); however, only a few investigations have addressed the influence of exposing the respiratory mucosal barrier to subcytotoxic doses. In the nasal respiratory epithelium, cells of the mucosa represent one of the first contact points of the human organism with airborne NPs. Disruption of the epithelial barrier by harmful materials can lead to inflammation in addition to potential intrinsic toxicity of the particles. The aim of this study was to investigate whether subtoxic concentrations of zinc oxide (ZnO)- and silver (Ag)-NPs have an influence on upper airway barrier integrity. Nasal epithelial cells from 17 donors were cultured at the air-liquid interface and exposed to ZnO- and Ag-NPs. Barrier function, quantified by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), decreased after treatment with 10 µg/mL Ag-NPs, but FITC-dextran permeability remained stable and no change in mRNA levels of tight junction proteins and E-cadherin was detected by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The results indicate that subtoxic concentrations of Ag-NPs may already induce damage of the upper airway epithelial barrier in vitro. The lack of similar disruption by ZnO-NPs of similar size suggests a specific effect by Ag-NPs.}, language = {en} } @article{SchravenDalhoffWildensteinetal.2014, author = {Schraven, Sebastian P. and Dalhoff, Ernst and Wildenstein, Daniela and Hagen, Rudolf and Gummer, Anthony W. and Mlynski, Robert}, title = {Alternative Fixation of an Active Middle Ear Implant at the Short Incus Process}, series = {Audiology and Neurotology}, volume = {19}, journal = {Audiology and Neurotology}, number = {1}, issn = {1420-3030}, doi = {10.1159/000354981}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-196823}, pages = {1-11}, year = {2014}, abstract = {Introduction: Since 1996, the preferred approach for positioning the active middle-ear implant Vibrant Soundbridge© is a mastoidectomy and a posterior tympanotomy. With this device, placement of the floating mass transducer (FMT) on the long incus process is the standard method for treatment of mild-to-severe sensorineural hearing loss in the case of normal middle-ear anatomy. The aim of this study was to determine the vibrational effectiveness of FMT placement at the short incus process. Materials and Methods: An extended antrotomy and a posterior tympanotomy were performed in 5 fresh human temporal bones. As a control for normal middle-ear function, the tympanic membrane was stimulated acoustically and the vibration of the stapes footplate and the round-window (RW) membrane were (sequentially) measured by laser Doppler vibrometry. Vibration responses for coupling of an FMT to the long incus process (standard coupling) were compared to those for coupling to the short incus process. Results: Apart from narrow frequency bands near 3 and 9 kHz for the stapes footplate and RW membrane, respectively, the velocity responses presented no significant differences between standard coupling of the FMT and coupling to the short incus process. Conclusion: Coupling the FMT to the short incus process may be a viable alternative in cases where the surgical approach is limited to an extended antrotomy. A reliable technique for attachment to the short incus process has yet to be developed.}, language = {en} } @article{HerrmannMuellerGraffKaulitzetal.2022, author = {Herrmann, David P. and M{\"u}ller-Graff, Franz-Tassilo and Kaulitz, Stefan and Cebulla, Mario and Kurz, Anja and Hagen, Rudolf and Neun, Tilmann and Rak, Kristen}, title = {Application of intentional facial nerve stimulation during cochlear implantation as an electrophysiological tool to estimate the intracochlear electrode position}, series = {Scientific Reports}, volume = {12}, journal = {Scientific Reports}, number = {1}, doi = {10.1038/s41598-022-17732-9}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-300197}, year = {2022}, abstract = {This proof of concept describes the use of evoked electromyographic (EMG) activation of the facial nerve for intraoperative monitoring of the electrode insertion during cochlear implantation (CI). Intraoperative EMG measurements from the facial nerve were conducted in nine patients undergoing CI implantation. Electric current pulses were emitted from contacts on the CI array during and immediately after electrode insertion. For control, the results of EMG measurements were compared to postoperative flat panel volume computed tomography scans with secondary reconstruction (fpVCT\(_{SECO}\)). During insertion, the EMG response evoked by the electrical stimulation from the CI was growing with the stimulating contact approaching the facial nerve and declined with increasing distance. After full insertion, contacts on the apical half of the CI array stimulated higher EMG responses compared with those on the basal half. Comparison with postoperative imaging demonstrated that electrode contacts stimulating high EMG responses had the shortest distances to the facial nerve. It could be demonstrated that electrically evoked EMG activation of the facial nerve can be used to monitor the progress during CI electrode insertion and to control the intracochlear electrode position after full insertion.}, language = {en} } @article{KoepingShehataDielerCebullaetal.2017, author = {K{\"o}ping, Maria and Shehata-Dieler, Wafaa and Cebulla, Mario and Rak, Kristen and Oder, Daniel and M{\"u}ntze, Jonas and Nordbeck, Peter and Wanner, Christoph and Hagen, Rudolf and Schraven, Sebastian}, title = {Cardiac and renal dysfunction is associated with progressive hearing loss in patients with Fabry disease}, series = {PLoS ONE}, volume = {12}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, number = {11}, doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0188103}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-169961}, pages = {e0188103}, year = {2017}, abstract = {Background Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked recessive hereditary lysosomal storage disorder which results in the accumulation of globotriaosylceramid (Gb3) in tissues of kidney and heart as well as central and peripheral nervous system. Besides prominent renal and cardiac organ involvement, cochlear symptoms like high-frequency hearing loss and tinnitus are frequently found with yet no comprehensive data available in the literature. Objective To examine hearing loss in patients with FD depending on cardiac and renal function. Material and methods Single-center study with 68 FD patients enrolled between 2012 and 2016 at the Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Head and Neck Surgery of the University of W{\"u}rzburg. Every subject underwent an oto-rhino-laryngological examination as well as behavioral, electrophysiological and electroacoustical audiological testing. High-frequency thresholds were evaluated by using a modified PTA\(_{6}\) (0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8) and HF-PTA (6, 8 kHz). Renal function was measured by eGFR, cardiac impairment was graduated by NYHA class. Results Sensorineural hearing loss was detected in 58.8\% of the cohort, which occurred typically in sudden episodes and affected especially high frequencies. Hearing loss is asymmetric, beginning unilaterally and affecting the contralateral ear later. Tinnitus was reported by 41.2\%. Renal and cardiac impairment influenced the severity of hearing loss (p < 0.05). Conclusions High frequency hearing loss is a common problem in patients with FD. Although not life-threatening, it can seriously reduce quality of life and should be taken into account in diagnosis and therapy. Optimized extensive hearing assessment including higher frequency thresholds should be used.}, language = {en} } @article{KoepingShehataDielerSchneideretal.2018, author = {K{\"o}ping, Maria and Shehata-Dieler, Wafaa and Schneider, Dieter and Cebulla, Mario and Oder, Daniel and M{\"u}ntze, Jonas and Nordbeck, Peter and Wanner, Christoph and Hagen, Rudolf and Schraven, Sebastian P.}, title = {Characterization of vertigo and hearing loss in patients with Fabry disease}, series = {Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases}, volume = {13}, journal = {Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases}, doi = {10.1186/s13023-018-0882-7}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-222818}, year = {2018}, abstract = {Background Fabry Disease (FD) is an X-linked hereditary lysosomal storage disorder which leads to a multisystemic intralysosomal accumulation of globotriaosylceramid (Gb3). Besides prominent renal and cardiac organ involvement, patients commonly complain about vestibulocochlear symptoms like high-frequency hearing loss, tinnitus and vertigo. However, comprehensive data especially on vertigo remain scarce. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and characteristics of vertigo and hearing loss in patients with FD, depending on renal and cardiac parameters and get hints about the site and the pattern of the lesions. Methods Single-center study with 57 FD patients. Every patient underwent an oto-rhino-laryngological examination as well as videonystagmography and vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) and audiological measurements using pure tone audiometry and auditory brainstem response audiometry (ABR). Renal function was measured by eGFR, cardiac impairment was graduated by NYHA class. Results More than one out of three patients (35.1\%) complained about hearing loss, 54.4\% about vertigo and 28.1\% about both symptom. In 74\% a sensorineural hearing loss of at least 25 dB was found, ABR could exclude any retrocochlear lesion. Caloric testing showed abnormal values in 71.9\%, VEMPs were pathological in 68\%. A correlation between the side or the shape of hearing loss and pathological vestibular testing could not be revealed. Conclusions Hearing loss and vertigo show a high prevalence in FD. While hearing loss seems due to a cochlear lesion, peripheral vestibular as well as central nervous pathologies cause vertigo. Thus, both the site of lesion and the pathophysiological patterns seem to differ.}, language = {en} } @article{MuellerBrillHagenetal.2012, author = {M{\"u}ller, Joachim and Brill, Stefan and Hagen, Rudolf and Moeltner, Alexander and Brockmeier, Steffi-Johanna and Stark, Thomas and Helbig, Silke and Maurer, Jan and Zahnert, Thomas and Zierhofer, Clemens and Nopp, Peter and Anderson, Ilona}, title = {Clinical Trial Results with the MED-EL Fine Structure Processing Coding Strategy in Experienced Cochlear Implant Users}, series = {ORL}, volume = {74}, journal = {ORL}, number = {4}, issn = {0301-1569}, doi = {10.1159/000337089}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-196396}, pages = {185-198}, year = {2012}, abstract = {Objectives: To assess the subjective and objective performance of the new fine structure processing strategy (FSP) compared to the previous generation coding strategies CIS+ and HDCIS. Methods: Forty-six adults with a minimum of 6 months of cochlear implant experience were included. CIS+, HDCIS and FSP were compared in speech perception tests in noise, pitch scaling and questionnaires. The randomized tests were performed acutely (interval 1) and again after 3 months of FSP experience (interval 3). The subjective evaluation included questionnaire 1 at intervals 1 and 3, and questionnaire 2 at interval 2, 1 month after interval 1. Results: Comparison between FSP and CIS+ showed that FSP performed at least as well as CIS+ in all speech perception tests, and outperformed CIS+ in vowel and monosyllabic word discrimination. Comparison between FSP and HDCIS showed that both performed equally well in all speech perception tests. Pitch scaling showed that FSP performed at least as well as HDCIS. With FSP, sound quality was at least as good and often better than with HDCIS. Conclusions: Results indicate that FSP performs better than CIS+ in vowel and monosyllabic word understanding. Subjective evaluation demonstrates strong user preferences for FSP when listening to speech and music.}, language = {en} } @article{TaegerMuellerGraffLukasetal.2021, author = {Taeger, Johannes and M{\"u}ller-Graff, Franz-Tassilo and Lukas, Ilgen and Schendzielorz, Philipp and Hagen, Rudolf and Neun, Tilman and Rak, Kristen}, title = {Cochlear duct length measurements in computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging using newly developed techniques}, series = {OTO Open}, volume = {5}, journal = {OTO Open}, number = {3}, doi = {10.1177/2473974X211045312}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-263922}, pages = {1-8}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Objective Growing interest in measuring the cochlear duct length (CDL) has emerged, since it can influence the selection of cochlear implant electrodes. Currently the measurements are performed with ionized radiation imaging. Only a few studies have explored CDL measurements in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Therefore, the presented study aims to fill this gap by estimating CDL in MRI and comparing it with multislice computed tomography (CT). Study Design Retrospective data analyses of 42 cochleae. Setting Tertiary care medical center. Methods Diameter (A value) and width (B value) of the cochlea were measured in HOROS software. The CDL and the 2-turn length were determined by the elliptic circular approximation (ECA). In addition, the CDL, the 2-turn length, and the angular length were determined via HOROS software by the multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) method. Results CDL values were significantly shorter in MRI by MPR (d = 1.38 mm, P < .001) but not by ECA. Similar 2-turn length measurements were significantly lower in MRI by MPR (d = 1.67 mm) and ECA (d = 1.19 mm, both P < .001). In contrast, angular length was significantly higher in MRI (d = 26.79°, P < .001). When the values were set in relation to the frequencies of the cochlea, no clinically relevant differences were estimated (58 Hz at 28-mm CDL). Conclusion In the presented study, CDL was investigated in CT and MRI by using different approaches. Since no clinically relevant differences were found, diagnostics with radiation may be omitted prior to cochlear implantation; thus, a concept of radiation-free cochlear implantation could be established.}, language = {en} } @article{MeyerStoethMoratinetal.2021, author = {Meyer, Till Jasper and St{\"o}th, Manuel and Moratin, Helena and Ickrath, Pascal and Herrmann, Marietta and Kleinsasser, Norbert and Hagen, Rudolf and Hackenberg, Stephan and Scherzad, Agmal}, title = {Cultivation of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells with wound fluid leads to cisplatin resistance via epithelial-mesenchymal transition induction}, series = {International Journal of Molecular Sciences}, volume = {22}, journal = {International Journal of Molecular Sciences}, number = {9}, issn = {1422-0067}, doi = {10.3390/ijms22094474}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-258722}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Locoregional recurrence is a major reason for therapy failure after surgical resection of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The physiological process of postoperative wound healing could potentially support the proliferation of remaining tumor cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of wound fluid (WF) on the cell cycle distribution and a potential induction of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). To verify this hypothesis, we incubated FaDu and HLaC78 cells with postoperative WF from patients after neck dissection. Cell viability in dependence of WF concentration and cisplatin was measured by flow cytometry. Cell cycle analysis was performed by flow cytometry and EMT-marker expression by rtPCR. WF showed high concentrations of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, CCL2, MCP-1, EGF, angiogenin, and leptin. The cultivation of tumor cells with WF resulted in a significant increase in cell proliferation without affecting the cell cycle. In addition, there was a significant enhancement of the mesenchymal markers Snail 2 and vimentin, while the expression of the epithelial marker E-cadherin was significantly decreased. After cisplatin treatment, tumor cells incubated with WF showed a significantly higher resistance compared with the control group. The effect of cisplatin-resistance was dependent on the WF concentration. In summary, proinflammatory cytokines are predominantly found in WF. Furthermore, the results suggest that EMT can be induced by WF, which could be a possible mechanism for cisplatin resistance.}, language = {en} } @article{ScherzadMeyerIckrathetal.2019, author = {Scherzad, Agmal and Meyer, Till and Ickrath, Pascal and Gehrke, Thomas Eckhart and Bregenzer, Maximillian and Hagen, Rudolf and Dembski, Sofia and Hackenberg, Stephan}, title = {Cultivation of hMSCs in human plasma prevents the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of ZnO-NP in vitro}, series = {Applied Sciences}, volume = {9}, journal = {Applied Sciences}, number = {23}, issn = {2076-3417}, doi = {10.3390/app9234994}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-193063}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are commonly used for industrial applications. Consequently, there is increasing exposure of humans to them. The in vitro analysis of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity is commonly performed under standard cell culture conditions. Thus, the question arises of how the results of genotoxicity and cytotoxicity experiments would alter if human plasma was used instead of cell culture medium containing of fetal calf serum (FCS). Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) were cultured in human plasma and exposed to ZnO-NPs. A cultivation in expansion medium made of DMEM consisting 10\% FCS (DMEM-EM) served as control. Genotoxic and cytotoxic effects were evaluated with the comet and MTT assay, respectively. hMSC differentiation capacity and ZnO-NP disposition were evaluated by histology and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The protein concentration and the amount of soluble Zn2+ were measured. The cultivation of hMSCs in plasma leads to an attenuation of genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of ZnO-NPs compared to control. The differentiation capacity of hMSCs was not altered. The TEM showed ZnO-NP persistence in cytoplasm in both groups. The concentrations of protein and Zn2+ were higher in plasma than in DMEM-EM. In conclusion, the cultivation of hMSCs in plasma compared to DMEM-EM leads to an attenuation of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in vitro.}, language = {en} } @article{ScherzadHagenHackenberg2019, author = {Scherzad, Agmal and Hagen, Rudolf and Hackenberg, Stephan}, title = {Current Understanding of Nasal Epithelial Cell Mis-Differentiation}, series = {Journal of Inflammation Research}, volume = {12}, journal = {Journal of Inflammation Research}, doi = {10.2147/JIR.S180853}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-228562}, pages = {309-317}, year = {2019}, abstract = {The functional role of the respiratory epithelium is to generate a physical barrier. In addition, the epithelium supports the innate and acquired immune system through various cytokines and chemokines. However, epithelial cells are also involved in the pathogenesis of various respiratory diseases, some of which are mediated by increased permeability of the mucosal membrane or disturbed mucociliary transport. In addition, it has been shown that epithelial cells are involved in the development of inflammatory respiratory diseases. The following review article focuses on the aspects of epithelial mis-differentiation, in particular with respect to nasal mucosal barrier function, epithelial immunogenicity, nasal epithelial-mesenchymal transition and nasal microbiome.}, language = {en} } @article{GehrkeScherzadHagenetal.2022, author = {Gehrke, Thomas and Scherzad, Agmal and Hagen, Rudolf and Hackenberg, Stephan}, title = {Deep neck infections with and without mediastinal involvement: treatment and outcome in 218 patients}, series = {European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology}, volume = {279}, journal = {European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology}, number = {3}, issn = {1434-4726}, doi = {10.1007/s00405-021-06945-9}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-266814}, pages = {1585-1592}, year = {2022}, abstract = {Purpose Infections of the deep neck, although becoming scarcer due to the widespread use of antibiotics, still represent a dangerous and possibly deadly disease, especially when descending into the mediastinum. Due to the different specialities involved in the treatment and the heterogenous presentation of the disease, therapeutic standard is still controversial. This study analyzes treatment and outcome in these patients based on a large retrospective review and proposes a therapeutic algorithm. Methods The cases of 218 adult patients treated with deep neck abscesses over a 10-year period at a tertiary university hospital were analyzed retrospectively. Clinical, radiological, microbiological and laboratory findings were compared between patients with and without mediastinal involvement. Results Forty-five patients (20.64\%) presented with abscess formation descending into the mediastinum. Those patients had significantly (all items p < 0.0001) higher rates of surgical interventions (4.27 vs. 1.11) and tracheotomies (82\% vs. 3.4\%), higher markers of inflammation (CRP 26.09 vs. 10.41 mg/dl), required more CT-scans (3.58 vs. 0.85), longer hospitalization (39.78 vs 9.79 days) and more frequently needed a change in antibiotic therapy (44.44\% vs. 6.40\%). Multi-resistant pathogens were found in 6.67\% vs. 1.16\%. Overall mortality rate was low with 1.83\%. Conclusion Despite of the high percentage of mediastinal involvement in the present patient collective, the proposed therapeutic algorithm resulted in a low mortality rate. Frequent CT-scans, regular planned surgical revisions with local drainage and lavage, as well as an early tracheotomy seem to be most beneficial regarding the outcome.}, language = {en} } @article{IckrathSpruegelBeyersdorfetal.2021, author = {Ickrath, Pascal and Spr{\"u}gel, Lisa and Beyersdorf, Niklas and Scherzad, Agmal and Hagen, Rudolf and Hackenberg, Stephan}, title = {Detection of Candida albicans-Specific CD4+ and CD8+ T Cells in the Blood and Nasal Mucosa of Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis}, series = {Journal of Fungi}, volume = {7}, journal = {Journal of Fungi}, number = {6}, issn = {2309-608X}, doi = {10.3390/jof7060403}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-239671}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Candida albicans is ubiquitously present, and colonization in the nose and oral cavity is common. In healthy patients, it usually does not act as a pathogen, but in some cases can cause diseases. The influence of C. albicans as a trigger of T cell activation on the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is controversial, and its exact role is not clear to date. The aim of the present study was to detect and characterize C. albicans-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in patients with CRS, with and without nasal polyps. Tissue and blood samples were collected from patients suffering from chronic rhinosinusitis with (CRSwNP) and without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), and from healthy controls. A peptide pool derived from C. albicans antigen was added to tissue and blood samples. After 6 days, lymphocytes were analyzed by multicolor flow cytometry. Activation was assessed by the intracellular marker Ki-67, and the cytokine secretion was measured. Tissue CD8+ T cells of CRSsNP patients showed a significantly higher proportion of Ki-67+ cells after activation with C. albicans antigen compared to peripheral blood CD8+ T cells. Cytokine secretion in response to C. albicans antigen was similar for all study groups. In this study, C. albicans-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were detected in peripheral blood and mucosal tissue in all study groups. In patients suffering from CRSsNP, C. albicans-specific CD8+ T cells were relatively enriched in the nasal mucosa, suggesting that they might play a role in the pathogenesis of CRSsNP.}, language = {en} } @article{RadeloffWeissHagenetal.2021, author = {Radeloff, Katrin and Weiss, Dorothee and Hagen, Rudolf and Kleinsasser, Norbert and Radeloff, Andreas}, title = {Differentiation behaviour of adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs) seeded on polyurethane-fibrin scaffolds in vitro and in vivo}, series = {Biomedicines}, volume = {9}, journal = {Biomedicines}, number = {8}, issn = {2227-9059}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines9080982}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-245030}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs) are a promising cell source for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine approaches for cartilage replacement. For chondrogenic differentiation, human (h)ASCs were seeded on three-dimensional polyurethane (PU) fibrin composites and induced with a chondrogenic differentiation medium containing TGF-ß3, BMP-6, and IGF-1 in various combinations. In addition, in vitro predifferentiated cell-seeded constructs were implanted into auricular cartilage defects of New Zealand White Rabbits for 4 and 12 weeks. Histological, immunohistochemical, and RT-PCR analyses were performed on the constructs maintained in vitro to determine extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and expression of specific cartilage markers. Chondrogenic differentiated constructs showed a uniform distribution of cells and ECM proteins. RT-PCR showed increased gene expression of collagen II, collagen X, and aggrecan and nearly stable expression of SOX-9 and collagen I. Rabbit (r)ASC-seeded PU-fibrin composites implanted in ear cartilage defects of New Zealand White Rabbits showed deposition of ECM with structures resembling cartilage lacunae by Alcian blue staining. However, extracellular calcium deposition became detectable over the course of 12 weeks. RT-PCR showed evidence of endochondral ossification during the time course with the expression of specific marker genes (collagen X and RUNX-2). In conclusion, hASCs show chondrogenic differentiation capacity in vitro with the expression of specific marker genes and deposition of cartilage-specific ECM proteins. After implantation of predifferentiated rASC-seeded PU-fibrin scaffolds into a cartilage defect, the constructs undergo the route of endochondral ossification.}, language = {en} } @article{BasslerKnoblichGerhardHartmannetal.2023, author = {Bassler, Miriam C. and Knoblich, Mona and Gerhard-Hartmann, Elena and Mukherjee, Ashutosh and Youssef, Almoatazbellah and Hagen, Rudolf and Haug, Lukas and Goncalves, Miguel and Scherzad, Agmal and St{\"o}th, Manuel and Ostertag, Edwin and Steinke, Maria and Brecht, Marc and Hackenberg, Stephan and Meyer, Till Jasper}, title = {Differentiation of salivary gland and salivary gland tumor tissue via Raman imaging combined with multivariate data analysis}, series = {Diagnostics}, volume = {14}, journal = {Diagnostics}, number = {1}, issn = {2075-4418}, doi = {10.3390/diagnostics14010092}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-355558}, year = {2023}, abstract = {Salivary gland tumors (SGTs) are a relevant, highly diverse subgroup of head and neck tumors whose entity determination can be difficult. Confocal Raman imaging in combination with multivariate data analysis may possibly support their correct classification. For the analysis of the translational potential of Raman imaging in SGT determination, a multi-stage evaluation process is necessary. By measuring a sample set of Warthin tumor, pleomorphic adenoma and non-tumor salivary gland tissue, Raman data were obtained and a thorough Raman band analysis was performed. This evaluation revealed highly overlapping Raman patterns with only minor spectral differences. Consequently, a principal component analysis (PCA) was calculated and further combined with a discriminant analysis (DA) to enable the best possible distinction. The PCA-DA model was characterized by accuracy, sensitivity, selectivity and precision values above 90\% and validated by predicting model-unknown Raman spectra, of which 93\% were classified correctly. Thus, we state our PCA-DA to be suitable for parotid tumor and non-salivary salivary gland tissue discrimination and prediction. For evaluation of the translational potential, further validation steps are necessary.}, language = {en} } @article{EngertRakBieniussaetal.2021, author = {Engert, Jonas and Rak, Kristen and Bieniussa, Linsa and Scholl, Miriam and Hagen, Rudolf and V{\"o}lker, Johannes}, title = {Evaluation of the Neurogenic Potential in the Rat Inferior Colliculus from Early Postnatal Days Until Adulthood}, series = {Molecular Neurobiology}, volume = {58}, journal = {Molecular Neurobiology}, issn = {0893-7648}, doi = {10.1007/s12035-020-02151-6}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-235811}, pages = {719-734}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Neural stem cells (NSCs) have been recently identified in the inferior colliculus (IC). These cells are of particular interest, as no casual therapeutic options for impaired neural structures exist. This research project aims to evaluate the neurogenic potential in the rat IC from early postnatal days until adulthood. The IC of rats from postnatal day 6 up to 48 was examined by neurosphere assays and histological sections. In free-floating IC cell cultures, neurospheres formed from animals from early postnatal to adulthood. The amount of generated neurospheres decreased in older ages and increased with the number of cell line passages. Cells in the neurospheres and the histological sections stained positively with NSC markers (Doublecortin, Sox-2, Musashi-1, Nestin, and Atoh1). Dissociated single cells from the neurospheres differentiated and were stained positively for the neural lineage markers β-III-tubulin, glial fibrillary acidic protein, and myelin basic protein. In addition, NSC markers (Doublecortin, Sox-2, CDK5R1, and Ascl-1) were investigated by qRT-PCR. In conclusion, a neurogenic potential in the rat IC was detected and evaluated from early postnatal days until adulthood. The identification of NSCs in the rat IC and their age-specific characteristics contribute to a better understanding of the development and the plasticity of the auditory pathway and might be activated for therapeutic use.}, language = {en} } @article{KrausHackenbergShehataDieleretal.2022, author = {Kraus, Fabian and Hackenberg, Stephan and Shehata-Dieler, Wafaa and Hagen, Rudolf}, title = {High-sensitivity FEES\(^{®}\) with the professional image enhancement technology "PIET"}, series = {European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology}, volume = {279}, journal = {European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology}, number = {1}, issn = {1434-4726}, doi = {10.1007/s00405-021-07067-y}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-266822}, pages = {293-298}, year = {2022}, abstract = {Purpose Flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES\(^{®}\)) is a standard diagnostic tool in dysphagia. The combination of FEES® and narrow band light (narrow band imaging; NBI) provides a more precise and detailed investigation method. So far, this technique could only be performed with the NBI illumination. The new version of the "professional image enhancement technique" (PIET) provides another image enhancing system. This study investigates the eligibility of PIET in the FEES\(^{®}\) procedure. Methods Both techniques, NBI and PIET, were compared using a target system. Furthermore, the image enhancement during FEES\(^{®}\) was performed and recorded with the two systems during daily routine. Results Performing an image enhancement during FEES\(^{®}\) is possible with both systems PIET and NBI. On the target system, the contrast of the PIET showed a brighter and a more detailed picture. In dysphagia patients, no difference between PIET and NBI was detected. Conclusion PIET proved to be non-inferior to NBI during image enhancement FEES\(^{®}\). So far, image enhancement FEES\(^{®}\) was exclusively connected to NBI. With the PIET system, an alternative endoscopy technology is available for certain indications.}, language = {en} } @article{TaegerMuellerGraffNeunetal.2021, author = {Taeger, Johannes and M{\"u}ller-Graff, Franz-Tassilo and Neun, Tilmann and K{\"o}ping, Maria and Schendzielorz, Philipp and Hagen, Rudolf and Rak, Kristen}, title = {Highly precise navigation at the lateral skull base by the combination of flat-panel volume CT and electromagnetic navigation}, series = {Science Progress}, volume = {104}, journal = {Science Progress}, number = {3}, issn = {2047-7163}, doi = {10.1177/00368504211032090}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-250268}, year = {2021}, abstract = {This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of electromagnetic navigation at the lateral skull base in combination with flat panel volume computed tomography (fpVCT) datasets. A mastoidectomy and a posterior tympanotomy were performed on 10 samples of fresh frozen temporal bones. For registration, four self-drilling titanium screws were applied as fiducial markers. Multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT; 600 µm), conventional flat panel volume computed tomography (fpVCT; 466 µm), micro-fpVCT (197 µm) and secondary reconstructed fpVCT (100 µM) scans were performed and data were loaded into the navigation system. The resulting fiducial registration error (FRE) was analysed, and control of the navigation accuracy was performed. The registration process was very quick and reliable with the screws as fiducials. Compared to using the MSCT data, the micro-fpVCT data led to significantly lower FRE values, whereas conventional fpVCT and secondary reconstructed fpVCT data had no advantage in terms of accuracy. For all imaging modalities, there was no relevant visual deviation when targeting defined anatomical points with a navigation probe. fpVCT data are very well suited for electromagnetic navigation at the lateral skull base. The use of titanium screws as fiducial markers turned out to be ideal for comparing different imaging methods. A further evaluation of this approach by a clinical trial is required.}, language = {en} } @article{MuellerGraffIlgenSchendzielorzetal.2022, author = {M{\"u}ller-Graff, Franz-Tassilo and Ilgen, Lukas and Schendzielorz, Philipp and Voelker, Johannes and Taeger, Johannes and Kurz, Anja and Hagen, Rudolf and Neun, Tilmann and Rak, Kristen}, title = {Implementation of secondary reconstructions of flat-panel volume computed tomography (fpVCT) and otological planning software for anatomically based cochlear implantation}, series = {European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology}, volume = {279}, journal = {European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology}, number = {5}, issn = {1434-4726}, doi = {10.1007/s00405-021-06924-0}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-266798}, pages = {2309-2319}, year = {2022}, abstract = {Purpose For further improvements in cochlear implantation, the measurement of the cochlear duct length (CDL) and the determination of the electrode contact position (ECP) are increasingly in the focus of clinical research. Usually, these items were investigated by multislice computed tomography (MSCT). The determination of ECP was only possible by research programs so far. Flat-panel volume computed tomography (fpVCT) and its secondary reconstructions (fpVCT\(_{SECO}\)) allow for high spatial resolution for the visualization of the temporal bone structures. Using a newly developed surgical planning software that enables the evaluation of CDL and the determination of postoperative ECP, this study aimed to investigate the combination of fpVCT and otological planning software to improve the implementation of an anatomically based cochlear implantation. Methods Cochlear measurements were performed utilizing surgical planning software in imaging data (MSCT, fpVCT and fpVCT\(_{SECO}\)) of patients with and without implanted electrodes. Results Measurement of the CDL by the use of an otological planning software was highly reliable using fpVCT\(_{SECO}\) with a lower variance between the respective measurements compared to MSCT. The determination of the inter-electrode-distance (IED) between the ECP was improved in fpVCT\(_{SECO}\) compared to MSCT. Conclusion The combination of fpVCT\(_{SECO}\) and otological planning software permits a simplified and more reliable analysis of the cochlea in the pre- and postoperative setting. The combination of both systems will enable further progress in the development of an anatomically based cochlear implantation.}, language = {en} } @article{MoratinIckrathScherzadetal.2021, author = {Moratin, Helena and Ickrath, Pascal and Scherzad, Agmal and Meyer, Till Jasper and Naczenski, Sebastian and Hagen, Rudolf and Hackenberg, Stephan}, title = {Investigation of the immune modulatory potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles in human lymphocytes}, series = {Nanomaterials}, volume = {11}, journal = {Nanomaterials}, number = {3}, issn = {2079-4991}, doi = {10.3390/nano11030629}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-234016}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NP) are commonly used for a variety of applications in everyday life. In addition, due to its versatility, nanotechnology supports promising approaches in the medical sector. NP can act as drug-carriers in the context of targeted chemo- or immunotherapy, and might also exhibit autonomous immune-modulatory characteristics. Knowledge of potential immunosuppressive or stimulating effects of NP is indispensable for the safety of consumers as well as patients. In this study, primary human peripheral blood lymphocytes of 9 donors were treated with different sub-cytotoxic concentrations of ZnO-NP for the duration of 1, 2, or 3 days. Flow cytometry was performed to investigate changes in the activation profile and the proportion of T cell subpopulations. ZnO-NP applied in this study did not induce any significant alterations in the examined markers, indicating their lack of impairment in terms of immune modulation. However, physicochemical characteristics exert a major influence on NP-associated bioactivity. To allow a precise simulation of the complex molecular processes of immune modulation, a physiological model including the different components of an immune response is needed.}, language = {en} }