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Biomedical subjects

L Grün

Publications and source records attributed to L Grün.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2005

[Quality assurance in the diagnosis of indoor fungi].

In co-ordination with the Umweltbundesamt Berlin, the Landesgesundheitsamt Baden-Wurttemberg (LGA) initiated external quality assurance in the diagnosis of indoor fungi in autumn 2001. Four of six fungal strains commonly found indoors have to be fully identified (on the genus and species level). There are two distributions per year; the six distributions hitherto carried out resulted in correct identification by 46-89% of laboratories (40-71 participants, total 148). It is clear from the results that repeat participants were more successful. In addition to the pure cultures sent out we offered actual samples (two air samples, one wood material, one sample of house dust, hitherto); 43- 69% of participating laboratories also took part in this facultative investigation of actual samples and 29-62% were successful. Results that differed considerably revealed problems while treating and evaluating actual samples. Therefore, activities in this field should be enhanced. In conclusion, external quality assurance in the diagnosis of indoor fungi is a useful management aid in the maintenance and improvement of laboratory performance.

Air Pollution, Indoor↗
PubMed2003

[Strategies and targets for establishing a multicenter trial: "Identification of indoor relevant moulds"].

Quality control is universally recognised as fundamentally important in ensuring that diagnostic laboratories are performing appropriate tests at acceptable levels of competence. Therefore, the working group "Quality assurance--Fungi in Indoor Environments" which was initiated by the Public Health Service Baden-Württemberg (LGA BW) started with the external quality assurance in the diagnosis of indoor fungi in autumn 2001. Up to now we carried out the third mailing based on pure cultures. The results are reported and will be discussed. Exchanging experience on the international level is intended.

Air Pollution, Indoor↗
PubMed1999

["Microbial air pollutants--methods for detection of endotoxins, mycotoxins and MVOC"].

In the context of microbial emissions from composting facilities the methods for the detection and identification of the groups of substances released, i.e. endotoxins, mycotoxins and Microbial Volatile Compounds (MVOC) are discussed. With the aid of an overview of the different methods employed for the investigation of the single groups of compounds the current state of the art in this field is presented. In conclusion the enormous research needs, especially with regard to the mycotoxins and MVOC, are pointed out.

Air Microbiology↗
PubMed1999

[Recent methods for the detection of airborne microorganisms and source identification].

The detection of airborne microorganisms including selected cell constituents (e.g. allergens or endotoxins) depends on suitable methods and instruments for their collection. Furthermore, microbiological methods are necessary for their quantification and qualification. In the past these methods were largely based on the classical cultivation dependent approach. Modern molecular methods, e.g. direct staining procedures, hybridization assays with nucleic acids including the PCR-technology or immunological assays are promising new tools for a more sophisticated detection of bioaerosols. They allow a better detection rate, a more precise identification of certain members of the aerosol including cell constituents. With respect to speed and lower costs they are an important alternative to established detection methods.

Air Microbiology↗
PubMed1992

Complex pattern of the myelo-monocytic differentiation antigens MRP8 and MRP14 during chronic airway inflammation.

One of the characteristics of cystic fibrosis is the presence of the so-called cystic fibrosis antigen in the plasma of patients. The CF-antigen has been shown to consist of the two calcium-binding proteins MRP8 and MRP14. In the present study we investigate first whether elevated plasma titers of MRP8 and MRP14 are linked to the primary defect of CF or are rather a result of chronic airway inflammation; and second, whether the known complexes of these proteins may have in vivo relevance during inflammation. By employing the ELISA technique we measured MRP8 and MRP14 levels in the plasma of patients suffering from CF or nonspecific chronic bronchitis (CB) and of healthy controls, in sputum of CF and CB patients, and in saliva of CF patients and healthy controls, respectively. We found elevated plasma concentrations of both proteins in CF and CB patients compared to healthy controls. Levels correlated significantly with systemic and local signs of disease activity (i.e. c-reactive protein (CRP), daily sputum production). MRP8 and MRP14 both were found in high amounts at similar concentrations in sputum of CF and CB patients and, to a lesser extent, in saliva of CF patients and healthy donors. After covalent cross-linking at least three different complexes composed of MRP8 and MRP14 with approximate molecular weights of about 25, 35 and 48 kDa were detected in all samples. From this we conclude that the elevated plasma levels of MRP8 and MRP14 in CF and CB are the result of inflammatory processes. Further, possible biological functions of these proteins seem to be associated with complexed forms of MRP8 and MRP14 rather than with individual proteins.

Blotting, Western↗
PubMed1979

[Possibilities and limitations in the localisation of sources of infections (author's transl)].

In latent microbial hospitalism environmental checks of the patients, the staff and objects permit detection of pathogenic or potentially pathogenic bacteria which are silent epidemiologically. "One's own body" as a source of infection has not yet been sufficiently investigated in connection with auto-infections. Taking two staphylococcal epidemics as examples, reference is made to the monogenic and heterogenic forms of hospitalism as well as to the necessity of accurately identifying the strains for the purpose of localising the source of infection. In the monogenic form only one type of bacterial species is present (Table 2). In heterogenic hospitalism, infections are caused by various different species of bacteria or also by a single species. If this is the case, various biotypes, serotypes and phagotypes exist (Table 1). In addition, simple possibilities of biotyping the staphylococci are demonstrated. Defensive measures can be adopted selectively only when the epidemiology and the source of infection are known.

Anti-Bacterial Agents↗
PubMed1976

[Disinfection of the inspired and expired air during artificial respiration with humified gases].

The water in the nebulizer of respirators is a potential source of infection for patients receiving artificial respiration. Interposition of a special equipment that will produce ozone-free ultraviolet radiation will prevent infection of the patient by the inspired humidified air, even if the bacterial count in the nebulizer fluid is very high. Interposition of the same equipment on the expiratory side is also recommended to minimize the risk of infection of the environment by bacteria in the expired air.

Air Microbiology↗