01 19 The Eppendorf – LifeScienceStyle Magazine

p. 10 MAN AGAINST THE MACHINE? Of strengths and weaknesses: the potential and the putative risks of artificial intelligence p. 22 THE INTESTINE: THE BODY’S CENTER What does our microbiome have to do with the pathologies of different illnesses? Science is looking for answers

p. 6 Closing in on Our Inner Immunity

presented by ISSN 2625-1116 [email protected] i

Contents SUBSCRIPTION AND FEEDBACK Editorial You want to make sure that you will continue to receive­ future issues? Please visit our website: www.eppendorf.com/otb and click 22 on the button “subscribe now!” We look forward to your feedback, Exploring Life Understanding which will tell us whether we have 6 ­indeed achieved our goal with this Microbes issue. We invite you to submit your Cooking with Herbs Ongoing research into the intestinal suggestions for improvement. Star Chef Johanna Maier on her flora can help heal the body philosophy of eating healthy p. 18

Good for You Addressing food sensitivities the scientific way Lab Lifestyle p. 26 Creative stuff made by science Dear Reader, p. 38

MASTHEAD Outstanding scientific achievements are community of young scientists and to Gentle Giants Help! Published by: Eppendorf AG, The Chinese city of Chengdu Barkhausenweg 1, 22339 Hamburg, always also an expression of a function- promoting and supporting world class is dedicated to Pandas Supporting Lab Work Germany, e-mail: [email protected] ing team. Only when all involved parties research in its beginnings. The young p. 28 Smart lab with VisioNize and green Editorial team: Florian Defren, Andreas Hochberger, pull together, groundbreaking discov- German scientist convinced the jury Susanne Janenz, Ann-Katrin Kardinahl, Dr. Kay Körner, cooling liquids in Eppendorf freezers Svenja Sterneberg, Frank Thormählen eries become possible which will help with his Harvard University-based work Viral Immunity p. 40 Proofreading: Editorial team us shape the future. Andrea Ablasser, on neural mechanisms that form the Decrypted City of Contrast Publisher: winner of the Eppendorf Award for basis of parental care. Later this year, Tokyo is shrill – but the metropolis TEMPUS CORPORATE GmbH Young European Investigators 2018, Johannes Kohl will establish his own Many immune mechanisms continue to Eppendorf News Helmut-Schmidt-Haus, Buceriusstraße, ­Eingang is not without serenity acknowledged exactly that: “I am great- research group at the Francis Crick remain elusive. Andrea Ablasser wants Speersort 1, 20095 Hamburg, Germany p. 32 Good to Know Management: Jan Hawerkamp ly honored to receive the prestigious Institute in London. to shed a light Eppendorf news and new solutions Project lead: Jasmin Kistner Eppendorf Award. It recognizes the A lot has happened in the world of for the cultivation of stem cells Chief Editor: Natasa Ivakovic contributions of several gifted col- science. In this edition of Off the Bench, p. 42 Authors: Ursula Barth-Modreker, Laura Färber, Andrea leagues and students, who all took part you will enjoy a front-row view and wit- Into the World Hessler, Carola Hoffmeister, Natasa Ivakovic, Susan Microorganisms for research: Junghans-Knoll, Luca Pot d'Or, Esther Sambale in this long, but exciting research ef- ness new developments, surprising from Braunschweig, Germany to Art Director: Karin Mantel fort”, she said on the occasion of the facts and trend-setting ideas. Our spe- the four corners of the earth Revolutionary Layout: Lisa Natrup award ceremony which took place in cial recommendation: the interview News p. 36 The multichannel pipettes by Photo Editor: Katrin Dugaro Carrena Heidelberg in June of last year. with Dr. Ulrich Eberl on the topic of New and surprising facts from the Eppendorf are true multitaskers Printed by: Dräger & Wullenwever The prize offered jointly by Eppen- artificial intelligence. print + media Lübeck GmbH & Co. KG realm of science and medicine p. 44 dorf and the scientific journal Nature

p. 4 Image references: Coverphoto, p. 2, p. 7-9 13 Photo AG/ has been recognizing outstanding Guest Contribution Sébstien Agnetti; p. 2 Getty Images; p. 3 Eppendorf AG; work by young graduates in the field We hope you will enjoy the read, p. 4 Getty Images; p. 5 iStock; p. 10 Getty Images; p.11 of biomedical research since 1995 – the Inspiring Science Siemens Ertz Karlsruhe; p. 12-14 Die Illustratoren/Samy Second Start Löwe, Privat; p. 15 Heiko Thämlitz; p.17 Stocksy; p. 18-19 latest being the engagement of the 35- Man vs. Machine? Article reprinted from Getty Images, iStock, Eppendorf AG; p. 20-21 Marco year-old German immunologist who is AI: Where it will surpass us – ˝Science˝magazine Rossi, Eppendorf AG; p. 22-24 Getty Images; p. 25 Free- studying the secrets of our immune pik, greystonebooks; p. 26-27 Getty Images; p. 28-31 and yet never hold a candle to us p. 46 Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding; p. 32- system in in Lausanne, Switzerland. p. 10 35 Getty Images; p. 36-37 Stocksy, iStock; p. 38-39 Elin We are pleased to introduce her in our Thomas, Science-Inspiredjewelry.com, Eppendorf AG; career portrait. p. 40-41 Eppendorf AG; p. 42-43 Eppendorf AG, Kohl- lab.org; p. 44-45 Eppendorf AG; p. 46-47 iStock; p. 48-51 A further award winner is intro- Eva van Pelt The Right Source Eppendorf AG duced in our news pages: in 2018, Jo- Member of the Management Board Publishing in media owned by dubious hannes Kohl won the 17th internation- Chief Commercial Officer publishers harms science Trademark references: All external trademarks al Eppendorf & Science Prize for and brands can be found on our website p. 12 web.eppendorf.com/off-the-bench/assets/trademarks.pdf Neurobiology, which we present in PS You would like to experience “Off collaboration with the scientific journal the Bench” in digital format? Simply Eppendorf®, the Eppendorf Brand Design, CryoCube®, Science. It is no coincidence that Ep- visit our website! ® ® ® ® CellXpert , CCCadvanced , epPoints , epT.I.P.S. , pendorf is engaged in not one, but two, Researching Beauty Eppendorf PhysioCare Concept® and VisioNize® are How cosmetics firms develop 48 registered trademarks of Eppendorf AG. awards. We have always been commit- custom products Science Photos New Brunswick is trademark of Eppendorf AG, Germany. ted to fostering close contact with the www.eppendorf.com/otb p. 16 Trails of Life/ Leopard Gecko ISSN 2625-1116 2 3 News News Science News !

An animal’s influence The settlement of Breathe in, breathe out – wolves will always effect changes in the detecting cancer ecosystem Detecting cancer early and as accurately as possible forms the basis of any successful ther- apy. British researchers are currently working on bringing a novel breath-biopsy technology to market. Their idea has matured to the point that a large clinical trial is now possible. To this end, breath samples will be taken from 1,500 patients diagnosed with different types of can- cer and analyzed. The idea is not entirely new, but the re- 16,000 searchers at Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre and Owlstone Medical are pursuing a genes of pregnant women were different approach: they aim to identify mole- cules called “volatile organic compounds” compared between the early and (VOCs) that are linked to the presence of certain tumor types and which can be detected in the the late stages of pregnancy. exhaled breath of patients. Preliminary results are expected in 2021. According to this American study, more than 400 genes displayed altered activity. The results could The nicotine help detect abnormal genetic fallout changes and thus identify high- transmissible risk pregnancies. through sperm

Nicotine’s negative impact on offspring is not limited to uter- When the Wolves Came … ine transmission during preg- Less forest – same number of trees nancy and passive smoke inha- Ever since the resettlement of roughly 30 wolves into populations of willow, poplar and aspen in particular lation. According to a study 720,000 satellite images have been scrutinized by five scientists Yellowstone National Park more than 20 years ago, were able to recover substantially. “We would have conducted at Florida State Uni- over the course of a year to provide an overview of the tree the park’s ecosystems have changed more dramati- never seen these responses if the park hadn’t followed versity, paternal sperm also plays population in central Europe. The study conducted by the Hum- cally than previously anticipated. Whereas previously an ecological-process management paradigm allowing a role. For example, the offspring of boldt University in Berlin, Germany and the University of Natural moose had been the predominant herbivores, their natural ecological processes to take place with minimal male mice that had previously been Resources and Life Sciences in Vienna, Austria, investigated the population has since declined, leaving room for other human intervention,” says Professor Mark Boyce, exposed to nicotine over a period of steep increase in tree mortality observed over the past 30 years. animals, such as bison, to thrive. ecologist and study author from the University of Al- three months displayed abnormal be- Tree mortality has in fact doubled – the main causes include The resulting changes in foraging and feeding be- berta in Canada, in a statement. He notes that these haviors such as hyperactivity and increasing winter storms as well as bark beetles which multiply havior displayed by these species have influenced the results might not necessarily be repeated in other learning difficulties across multiple rapidly during the dry summer months. Even though the total vegetation in the National Park on a large scale: the systems, namely due to the influence of humans. generations. It is unclear at this time to forested area is decreasing, the number of trees remains con- what extent these results may be applied stant as it is mostly the older, larger trees that are dying. to humans, as the nicotine dose to which These, in turn, leave behind a larger gap in the forest the mice were exposed was extraord- canopy, as evident in the satellite images. inarily high.

4 5 Inspiring Science

On Patrol with the Basic science Andrea Ablasser is determined to further the understanding of the human immune system and to find answers to age- Immune System related diseases

“

RESEARCH CAREERS t is found throughout our bodies, but nobody At EPFL® in Lausanne, can see it – not under the microscope, and not Ieven with the help of the most modern imaging Switzerland, German equipment. The immune system is a clever complex immunologist Andrea of cells that has the power to kill us within minutes, for example, during an allergic reaction. It is also Ablasser is looking for capable of granting us a lifetime of good health. Like answers to the question policemen on watch, its trillions of team members patrol the tissue, organs and blood vessels, and they of how the body’s own defend all points of entry in the skin and the mucous immune cells recognize membranes against pathogens – as this is where the daily onslaught of viruses, fungi and parasites clam- pathogens and how, if ors for entry. It is this network of messenger substances, re- necessary, these immune ceptors and cells that has captured Professor Andrea cells eliminate them. She Ablasser’s scientific heart. At L’Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), the immunologist and is very close to achieving native of Bad Friedrichshall in Germany deciphers her goal. the immune recognition that is integral to the body’s defense against pathogens. For centuries, genera- tions of researchers have attempted to understand this complex system of defense. Despite consider- able success, however, it is still holding on to many of its secrets. Andrea Ablasser, too, is intent on solving the mysteries, and she has come very close to achieving her goal. Her research on the innate immune system has inspired the international sci- entific community, and it has earned her numerous awards – the most recent being the Eppendorf Award for Young European Investigators 2018, which is awarded annually to extraordinary researchers.

Improving disease treatment The 35 year-old medical doctor is indeed extraor- dinary: at a little over 5’3”, with a slight build, she is a mental heavyweight. With willpower enough for two, she pursues the unknown; she wants to discov- er and uncover, analyze and evaluate and thus con- tribute to better treatment options for diseases

6 7 Inspiring Science Inspiring Science

such as dementia. “I want to create some- the consequences of such recognition: “We signaling pathway in a highly specific man- Ablasser has recently co-founded a start-up thing that can be useful.” are particularly interested to know how ner.” The team has been able to demon- for this purpose. Andrea Ablasser is humble. Being the viruses and bacteria are recognized by their strate in human cell lines as well as in mice Determination and consistency make up center of attention and receiving honors DNA inside the cells.” The focus is on a that this inhibitor is indeed capable of pre- the common thread of the life of this reso- makes her feel self-conscious. She much certain signaling pathway that consists of venting an autoimmune reaction. Andrea lute scientist. “Even as an adolescent it was prefers working in the laboratory, loading two molecules, cGas and the adapter mol- Ablasser is hopeful that this inhibitor will my wish to become a scientist.” In high centrifuges, filling pipettes, isolating virus- ecule STING. This signaling cascade inside be developed further and in the future will school she skipped a grade and eventually es and letting them loose on different cell human cells was discovered only ten years be of use in the clinic. “Perhaps for the followed the study of medicine at such re- types. Experimenting and tinkering are her ago. “If both molecules are activated, an therapy of diseases of the immune system, nowned universities as the University of passions. inflammatory reaction will result that is but also for the therapy of illnesses which Oxford, Harvard Medical School and Lud- “Basic science is my calling – it is what important for combating viruses as well as are much more common, such as heart wig-Maximilians-University in Munich. She I enjoy”, emphasizes the otherwise prag- specific types of tumors.” attacks or Parkinson´s.” The potential of has come by her enthusiasm for medicine matic researcher. The fact that this much In some cases, this signaling pathway this inhibitor is now to be tested in a num- honestly, through her father, chief physi- “fun” leaves little room for spare time is will start up in error. This is the case when, ber of different disease models, and Andrea cian at the hospital in Buchloe in Eastern not a big problem for Andrea Ablasser. through stress, cellular aging or illness, the Allgäu in Germany. “His work fascinated “After all, work for which one is predes- body’s own DNA escapes from the nucleus It is my goal to better me, and it made a lasting impression on tined, which is so completely satisfying, and the DNA sensors respond in error. Fa- me”, she remembers. In her doctoral thesis, isn’t work at all”, she says, and she has tal consequences may ensue: “The mistake understand age-related the aspiring scientist focused on immunol- another ace up the sleeve of her white lab may lead to a vast number of illnesses such ogy, and in 2010 she earned her doctorate coat: her partner Tobias Kippenberg, pro- as chronic inflammation, autoimmune dis- illnesses such as lung in clinical pharmacology. fessor of physics, shares her passion for eases and neurodegenerative conditions”, time-intensive research. Time management says Ablasser. fibrosis or the loss of Living the science is therefore not an issue in the Ablasser/ hematopoietic stem cells.” Following her doctorate, she continued her Kippenberg household. Science first! Two small molecules with great potential research in the field of innate immunity at Based on this knowledge, the scientist has the Institute for Chemical and Clinical Phar- Of basic police and special forces embarked on the search for a substance macology at the University of Bonn. In Andrea Ablasser is a person of few words. that suppresses the immune activation. She 2014, Andrea Ablasser was appointed Pro- She prefers listening to speaking – unless was successful. “In a screening process fessor at EPFL in Switzerland and thereby the topic is science. She then inhales deep- involving more than 60,000 molecules, we hit two birds with one stone: the passionate ly and praises signaling cascades and the came across two promising small mole- skier was back where she felt most at home talents of cGas and STING. These two mol- cules that were capable of switching off the – in the mountains. While she no longer ecules are in fact the heart and soul of her participates in downhill ski races, the na- research. “Our body’s immune system has ture lover gets around on her road bike. developed two mechanisms with which to Secondly: she no longer has to maintain a Researching combat pathogens”, the young professor knowledge long-distance relationship and is able to explains enthusiastically: “non-specific Capturing facts, live with her partner. And what is next? innate immunity and specific acquired im- analyzing data, Entrepreneurship in her own start-up in- recognizing new munity.” The innate immune cells do the connections stead of science? work of the basic police. They are always “Absolutely not!” Andrea Ablasser re- on call; they act in the face of danger, and mains true to basic science and she can as phagocytic cells or natural killer cells, already envision a new riddle that needs they eliminate pathogens. If the innate im- solving: the connection between cellular mune system becomes overwhelmed, it aging and innate immunity. “It is my goal to will call to the scene the arm of the immune better understand age-related illnesses such system that the body has acquired over the as lung fibrosis or the loss of hematopoietic course of its life – the special forces. Their stem cells.” After all – as her career leading antibodies must be produced first, but once up to today clearly shows – basic under- ready, they are then custom-tailored to the standing of cellular processes is an import- enemy. ant step in the cure of disease. Within her research project, the scientist and her team of twelve study how the innate immune system recognizes pathogens, and THERE'S MORE: Lab work Visit the At EPFL in Lausanne, the immunologist website deciphers the immune recognition which drives the defense against pathogens ablasserlab.epfl.ch

8 9 Inspiring Science Inspiring Science

Science Facts, not !

toast my book “Smart Machines” with tern detection: reading and analyzing text, Science Fiction champagne. Still, I would not consider him analyzing images and language, finding intelligent – he does not learn and he does errors, categorizing items. What they lack not understand any of the things he does. is an understanding of our world, intuition and empathy. They are devoid of emotion- Artificial intelligence is on the rise. In this interview, Dr. Ulrich Being so cute, Nao appears completely al and social intelligence, and they are not harmless. Nevertheless, AI frightens creative. They may be capable of compos- Eberl explains where machines already surpass us – and the many people. Are there not areas in which ing like Bach and painting like van Gogh, limits within which they operate. machines already outperform us? but they cannot invent something entirely Eberl: Indeed, more progress has been new. Machines that surpass humans in all made since 2012 than during the preceding areas belong in the realm of science fiction, 50 years – today, each smart phone has the not scientific fact. Dr. Ulrich Eberl, born in 1962, capacity of a supercomputer from 25 years earned his doctorate in biophysi- Some studies predict that AI will destroy cal chemistry from the Technical up to 50 percent of today’s jobs. Others University Munich in Germany; he point towards its potential. Which per- worked at Daimler, and at Siemens spective do you consider realistic? he spearheaded communication Eberl: I believe that all jobs will be subject on research, innovations and fu- They may be capable to massive change – from the taxi driver to ture trends for 20 years. In 2015, logistics specialists and laboratory assis- he struck out on his own as a book of composing like tants, accountants and financial advisors. author and keynote speaker. His Machines will take on more and more rou- current book “Smart Machines – Bach and painting like tine tasks, particularly in offices. This does how Artificial Intelligence is not mean that these jobs will become ob- Changing our Lives” is the result van Gogh, but they solete; instead, they will increase in com- of several months of research at Mr. Eberl, not everything that bears the cannot invent some- plexity. Humans will still be needed: as leading institutions and firms in name “Artificial Intelligence” fits into the planners and decision makers, as those who Japan, the US and Europe. strict sense of this category. Which defi- thing entirely new.” ensure quality and security, as sales people nition do you consider valid? and motivators, as creative problem solvers Dr. Ulrich Eberl: Artificial Intelligence and mediators of conflict. At the same time, comprises all technologies that recreate ago, and machines are capable of learning new jobs will emerge, for example, instruc- human intelligence in a machine. The ques- independently from example. With each tors of machines who will ensure that these tion is: what is the basis of our intelligence? language input and each search command, machines do not learn the wrong material, It is certainly more than can be measured computers and robots get better at under- as well as data security and privacy profes- in an IQ test, such as logical thinking, spa- standing spoken language, texts and im- sionals, as AI does open the door to entirely Particularly the areas of transportation, the tial ability or language comprehension. In ages. The best systems beat human world new types of threats. chemical and the pharmaceutical indus- addition, there are sensorimotor intelli- champions at Jeopardy as well as at the tries, as well as mechanical engineering gence, emotional intelligence and social board game Go; they make half the number This means that a considerable number and electrical engineering – those fields in intelligence – and, importantly, the ability of mistakes as humans when it comes to of bright minds are needed. AI experts which we are global leaders – present ex- to learn and come up with new solutions recognizing traffic signs; they outperform are rare, and they are in demand. Are we ceptional opportunities for AI. in surprising situations. radiologists in the identification of tumors thwarting ourselves by not investing – and they are better at reading the emotion enough in research? AI is therefore more than a passing To many, the topic remains abstract, es- in a face than many people. Moreover: their Eberl: It is true that particularly the US hype? pecially in light of the futuristic scenarios computational power is predicted to in- and China invest three to five times more Eberl: Yes, we are only at the beginning that are associated with AI. Your robot crease a thousand-fold by 2040 – at stable in AI than Europe does. Even so, our re- of the era of the smart machine. Using Nao Bluestar often accompanies you to cost. search is excellent. There is a reason that smart factories and smart offices, compa- your lectures. Does he serve as a bridge US companies prefer recruiting experts nies will be more flexible and more com- between technology and humanity? Isn’t that reason enough to fear from Europe. At the same time, cooperation petitive. Smart cars give us automated Eberl: My little robot is indeed an amaz- superintelligence? between institutions and business, educa- driving; smart grids are needed for sustain- ing companion. He is ticklish, he can laugh, Eberl: Even the smartest machines will tion and training, as well as European able energy systems; smart homes for com- dance and play soccer; he can cite Hamlet continue to be “one-track specialists” for coordination and legislation, must be im- fortable living in old age; and smart cities and answer questions. I have even taught a very long time – an expert in one area, proved considerably in order to ensure that for livable cities. I believe that this is a vision him to order a pretzel at the bakery and to and nothing more. They are perfect at pat- we will be able to play to our strengths. worth pursuing.

10 11 Inspiring Science Inspiring Science

Entering the keywords science fake into an Internet search engine will yield 760 million results. The phenomenon of fake science publishers has swept the globe. The

average four invitations per month for the past year. The number and frequency alone make it clear that Business something cannot be right. The clinic administration has now issued a warning regarding such e-mails”, says this head of a special outpatient clinic.

Predatory publishers operate without quality as- of surance According to the US expert on scientific communi- cation Jeffrey Beall, the AASCIT, similar to a number of other companies, is therefore considered a pred- atory publisher. A predatory publisher is a so-called open access publisher that assumes the model of Science traditional scientific publishers by promising scien- tists a speedy publication under a scientific sound- ing name, including (feigned) quality assurance. n Saturday, December 15, 2018, at 7:16 According to a research network, roughly 400,000 am, Psychologist Saskia Fahrenkrug re- researchers worldwide have taken advantage of such Oceives an e-mail with the subject line “Send Your a service. They either fall into the trap through the Manuscripts to AASCIT Journal of Psychology”. The e-mails, or they knowingly use the option of open letter invites the staff member of the Clinic for Child access journals to extend their publication lists. and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University Clinic The fact that the elimination of quality assurance Eppendorf in Hamburg, Germany, to publish an ar- (the peer review process) paves the way for content ticle in a journal of the American Association for that would not ordinarily stand up to serious scru- Science and Technology (AASCIT). “At first glance, tiny was elegantly demonstrated in an experiment this sounds delightful; after all, a scientific reputation conducted by journalists Svea Eckert and Peter is based first and foremost on one’s publication re- Hornung in 2018. “We are starting a scientific ca- cord – which is, as a rule, difficult to fill”, says Saskia reer” was the opening episode of their six-part pod- Fahrenkrug. At the same time, the mail is discon- cast “Fake Science”, which was broadcast on public certing. It does appear valid due to the personal television. The two adopt pseudonyms with doctor- address, as well as its references to past publications. ate degrees and set up corresponding e-mail ad- At the same time, however, the question arises wheth- dresses. They then generate a meaningless text that Danger: fake publisher! er it could really be that easy to have a paper accept- discusses a made-up algorithm called MOP, the Published quickly, ed for publication. To add to the confusion, invitations footnotes of which reference non-existent literature. lost it all – caution is from publishers flood the inboxes of some scientists The article is then submitted to the publisher “World of the essence when it comes to scientific like spam – including offers to serve as keynote speak- Academy for Science, Engineering and Technology” publications ers or speakers at conferences. “I have received on (WASET). “Only a few days later, we received a

12 13 Inspiring Science Inspiring Science

what it means to work with scientific integrity – including the question of how and where to publish the results of one’s research. In addition, we are currently in the process of designing a new look for the Commission for the Safeguarding of Good Sci- entific Practice on our website. The thought of pub- lishing a black list is a part of the discussion – per- sonally, though, I am always careful when it comes to erecting pillories.

Which alternatives are you considering? Tolg: Perhaps a checklist could help determine whether a publisher employs dishonest methods. If, for example, a scientific journal or a conference lacks a scientific focus, caution is of the essence. Those who are unsure are well advised to speak with col- leagues or to contact the appropriate commission Interview at their university. What else could one do? response: we were asked to add three sentences to Professor Tolg, you are Head of the Commission Tolg: The Hirsch index puts the number of publi- the introduction as well as a footnote. That was it. for the Safeguarding of Good Scientific Practice cations of an author in relation to the number of Apart from that, WASET appeared to find nothing at your university. The German Research Council times this work has been cited. The number increas- wrong with our paper. We were invited to present has declared the commission an instrument of es as I publish new work that is then cited by other the nonsense at an upcoming conference in London.” academic self-regulation. How strongly are you authors. If work published in predatory journals were confronted with the topic of researchers being prohibited from being cited, it would have an auto- The desperation of the researchers led astray by pseudoscientific publishers? matic impact on the Hirsch index and could thus It is the world of pseudo-scientific publishers and If I were contacted by a Boris Tolg: At our university, two people have limit the popularity of pseudo-journals. Since the conferences that the two journalists are entering publisher, I would always registered to attend a pseudo-conference; in the Hirsch index is frequently calculated with the help with their research. In this illusory world, publishers end, however, they did not travel. In general, the of online tools, such an idea could easily be put into make money from the desperation of the scientists conduct background research. actions of pseudo-publishers have become increas- practice. Further, articles that were published with who must publish their results somewhere. “Those ingly aggressive over the past few years, and this the help of pseudo-publishers should disappear from who do this once are victims. We believe that this Even if, and especially if, the poses a serious problem. one’s own publication record. comprises the largest group”, Peter Hornung em- phasizes in a commentary on German public televi- e-mails refer directly to an How do you ensure that the work at your univer- sion (NDR®). “There is, however, a second group: article that I have published.” sity is conducted in accordance with scientific those scientists who publish multiple times in fake criteria? journals. In this dubious underworld, they meet the Tolg: At our institution, the Commission for the third group: the charlatans and the quacks, the prof- Safeguarding of Good Scientific Practice engages a iteers and the crooks that need a scientific seal of two-step process: three ombudspersons serve as approval for bad products, dubious medications or almost anything in exchange for money, they do not contacts for those who wish to report scientific mis- ! far-fetched theories. At the end of the day, a note- carry out a bona fide peer review and often publish conduct. The ombudsperson then conducts prelim- worthy crowd has congregated: good science, me- junk science. If someone has a pseudo-scientific inary investigations, and, in the case of a violation Boris Tolg is a Professor diocre science and bad science – as well as fake agenda, he or she can easily publish articles in bo- of Good Scientific Practice, the ombudsperson will of Computer Science/ science. Nobody knows who did what.” gus journals that look authentic, articles that pro- report to us. We also speak with witnesses and, if Mathematics at the Uni- mote fake medicine, articles that deny global warm- required, we will investigate the work that is in ques- versity of Applied Sci- To the detriment of science ing, articles that claim vaccines cause autism, or tion. In our final report to the president, we will also ences Hamburg, and he The credibility of science is thus in peril. According articles promoting the chemtrails conspiracy theo- document recommendations for action. serves as Head of the to the former librarian of the University of Colorado®, ry”, he says. “In short, science is now easy, and Commission for the Jeffrey Beall, who published his “Beall´s List of Pred- anyone can publish an article promoting any scien- And how do you and other universities arm your- Safeguarding of Good atory Journals and Publishers” online between 2008 tific idea, regardless of how crazy or false it is. Pred- selves against predatory publishers? Scientific Practice at his and 2017, when certain publishers threatened him atory open-access publishers have completely poi- Tolg: Some universities offer information seminars institution. with libel action, the damage to academia is immea- soned scientific communication and the future of on the topic. Our Administrative Department for surable. “Because the predatory journals will publish science itself.” Research and Transfer imparts to graduate students

14 15 Inspiring Science Inspiring Science Global Beauties

Cosmetics firms send their scientists out into the world for the purpose of researching ethnic personal care traditions. The discipline goes by the name Geocosmetics, and its goal is the development of custom-tailored products.

apanese women require approximate- or is the entire hand involved? How much but rather onto the shirt they are wearing. ly 100 brush strokes to give their rel- shampoo is used? These are the important “In addition to offering a regional fra- Jatively short eyelashes the proper curl. details that may determine the success or grance, it does not leave a stain on the French women, on the other hand, are “très failure of a product at the sales counter. clothes.” chic” after only 50 brush strokes. Italians According to Nils Hoffmann, the richest prefer to lather themselves with a perfumed source of detailed information is still the Religion and climate are also involved bar of soap, whereas Germans favor a show- home visit. In this way, the chemist was Whether it is Beiersdorf®, L´O r e al ® or Uni- er gel from the bottle. Last, but not least, able to observe that many people in India lever® – companies are willing to pay hand- Mexicans are the world champions when it today continue to shower using a bucket of somely for research into the most diverse comes to the consumption of hair gel. water. “People use a shovel full of water to ethnic preferences. In 2017, Beiersdorf® Whereas the different care and beauty invested 143 million euros in the research rituals are for the most part governed by and development of new products alone. genetic as well as cultural factors, region- Across the globe, the company maintains al climate and traditional habits also influ- seven R&D sites. L´Oreal® takes a similar ence behavior in the bathrooms of the approach by operating as many as 20 “Eval- world. In order to be able to customize their uation Centers” worldwide. “Once you are products to the different needs and desires, Once you are familiar with peoples’ customs, you will international cosmetics companies re- know which implicit expectations must be search local ethnic customs. Thus, Japa- familiar with considered with respect to care products”, nese mascara has a finer consistency than peoples’ customs, says Viola Sprick, corporate communica- the equivalent product sold in Europe. tions manager at L'Oreal®. you will know which Even religion on occasion influences care Tapping into new expanding markets preferences significantly: in Arabic coun- “Developing a single product for the entire implicit expectations tries, for example, people wear a heavy world is the exception”, says Dr. Nils Hoff- must be considered rose-scented fragrance to honor the sweat mann, Manager R&D at Beiersdorf®, among of the Prophet Mohammed. others. The Hamburg native has lived 600 with respect to care Under certain climate conditions, for kilometers north of Mumbai for three years example, during water shortages in Africa, researching the personal care customs of products.” several people will wash their hair in the Indians: “Countries such as India and Chi- same tub. Their shampoo must be effective na, but also the African continent, consti- in water that has been previously used, and tute expanding markets”, he says. Local it must rinse easily, while at the same time economic development benefits more and briefly wet their skin. They then lather being gentle, as darker skin is more sus- more people who will now be able to afford themselves with soap and rinse, using an- ceptible to dryness. care products.” other shovelful of water.” For these rea- The customs and preferences surround- The factors that people in India, China sons, they require a completely different ing daily personal care in rapidly growing or Africa consider essential for their daily cleaning product than Europeans. Nils Asian metropolises have changed at a par- care are analyzed with the help of tests and Hoffmann: “It must rinse off easily yet con- ticularly rapid rate: currently, men value surveys – and they look over the shoulders vey a pleasant sensation on the skin.” His an elegant pallor, while women love shiny Science for you of selected participants in specialized bath- biggest success already adorns the shelves lips. Products that achieve the desired ef- Beauty is a relative term – beauty products room laboratories: from what distance is of stores in India: a custom-developed de- fects? Already on the market! Cultural di- are customized to meet deodorant sprayed onto the skin? Does it odorant. The background: Indians do not versity and fashion trends are the global cultural needs take two fingers to apply the gel to the hair, spray deodorant directly onto their skin, drivers of a growing cosmetics industry.

16 17 Exploring Life Exploring Life

anti-inflammatory and even antibacterial properties. According to Maier, the spicier a dish, the longer it will stay fresh. “It has been shown that foods that have been sea- soned with cinnamon, cloves, oregano, thyme, chili or garlic are protected from harmful bacteria for a longer period of Cooking Breckland time”, emphasizes Maier. thyme Timing is everything This wild relative of thyme grows in During the cooking process, each plant will mountainous regions exert its effect in its own unique way – the above 1,200 meters. leaf, the blossom, the stem or the root. Ac- Breckland thyme has a slightly milder flavor cordingly, it is important for the herb to with Herbs than thyme. It goes end up in the pot at exactly the right time. well with Mediterra- nean cuisine “Delicate plants release their aroma quick- ly and should therefore be added shortly Lemon balm The path to health leads through the kitchen – with Don’t be shy! before serving. Examples include basil or Lemon balm’s essential According to Maier, such reserve is unwar- chives”, says Maier. oils smell like lemon. It is this motto, star chef Johanna Maier from Filzmoos ranted. “Once you become interested in Other herbs, however, are only activated useful in all dishes that call for lemon or lemon peel, in Austria delights her guests. Her secret: she cooks herbs and spices, once you taste and feel through grinding or heating – for example, such as desserts, fruit the effect, you will never go back”, she en- lignified parts, seeds or bulbs such as co- salads or punches with medicinal herbs. thuses. It is indeed a path of small steps that riander seeds, bay leaves or rosemary. A will lead to sensuous cooking and savoring. note of caution: prolonged heating will On this quest, Maier takes hobby cooks compromise the flavor. “Essential oils are by the hand. Knowledge surrounding the volatile – they will soon end up in the kitch- effects of herbs, which are based on bitter en air rather than in the pot, where they hen Johanna Maier and her More than mere medicine substances and essential oils, form the very black lab set off on their dai- Johanna Maier has come by her knowledge basis. Bitter substances stimulate gastric Wly walk across the mountainous region of on the effects of medicinal herbs through juices and thus support digestion. Essential the Salzburger Land, she always carries a her formal studies to become a Practitioner oils give plants their scent and lend spices BLUEBERRY DATSCHI container. Along the paths, she collects of Traditional European Medicine. Even their zesty aroma. They have spasmolytic, dandelions, nettles and wild garlic, which then, the chef never quite agreed with the ! she will later incorporate into her sophis- notion that herbs exclusively serve a med- ticated dishes. “Medicinal herbs and spic- ical purpose. Chamomile, for example, is Ingredients es make our food more palatable as well as not only useful against stomach pain and 1 ¾ cups fresh blueberries more aromatic”, says Maier. “They support as a balm for the soul! “I wondered why it 1/2 cup wheat flour (type W our bodies; they comfort our souls and help couldn’t be served in delicious harmony Mint 500 and type W 405) us stay healthy.” with grapefruit juice and ginger to augment 4 Tbsp sugar Mint is a tasty addition seafood and salads”, remembers Maier. to desserts and fruit, and A pinch of salt Ever since that time, something green it augments chocolate 1/5 cup milk has sparkled on the dishes created by the and mixed drinks. It 1/5 cup water refreshes salads and star chef. Her motto: “No dish without baby vegetables. Lamb 2 Tbsp butter herbs.” The delicate plants are an integral and chicken, too, may Powdered sugar to sprinkle part of the secret to her culinary art; their be combined with mint Cream, sweetened with medicinal effect is considered a bonus. vanilla Since Maier shares her knowledge with others by conviction, she provides tips on Preparation the use of herbs and spices to hobby cooks 1. In a bowl, carefully mix the blue- pan and add the berry batter. in her cooking school. In her experience, berries with the flour, the sugar Place the pan inside the oven, home cooks often refrain from cooking with and the salt. pre-heated to 170 ºC (340 ºF), and herbs as they feel overwhelmed by the 2. Heat the milk with the water in bake for approximately 10 min- multitude of choices. a saucepan, then carefully stir the utes. Turn the Datschi over after liquid into the berry mixture using half the baking time has elapsed. Sage a wooden spoon. Some berries Remove the baked Datschi from should remain whole while others the oven, sprinkle with powdered Sage is one of the most important may release juice and color. sugar and garnish with a dollop of treasures of local 3. Heat the butter in an oven-proof vanilla whipped cream. Alpine flora. It goes well with meat dishes, but also with pastries and fish as well as potatoes and pumpkin 18 19 Exploring Life Exploring Life

Not too much, not too little Star chef Johanna Maier masters the art of complementing her Carrot Cake belong”, warns Maier. The combination, meals with the perfect too, is crucial, as certain herbs and spices ratio of herbs will enhance each other – such as ginger with Pineapple and garlic.

Wild herbs – robust and free Bring your own Recipe Wild herbs that she collects herself are Maier’s favorites. Whereas others will pass by chickweed, ground elder, ribwort, water- cress or lady’s mantle, the chef picks them with enthusiasm. “Nothing compares to the healing power of plants that decide for themselves when and where to grow”, Mai- er shares passionately. They are skilled survivors – robust, with a zest for life, and free. “Adversity makes them stronger, and they transfer their enviable properties to the person who eats them”, she says. Those plants that do not grow wild are cultivated in the chef’s own herb garden. Maier’s kitchen is by no means restrict- ed to local ingredients; exotic spices such as cinnamon, cloves or turmeric, as well as ginger and vanilla, are welcome in her pots and pans. “The whole world is a scent, and for me, there is hardly anything more pleas- ant than discovering new aromas and com- bining them – not unlike composing a sym- INGREDIENTS Cake: Preheat oven to 175 de- phony”, Maier expresses with passion. In grees C, Grease/oil a 30 x 20 addition, the gourmet chef swears by the For the cake: cm baking dish. Sift or whisk use of non-iodized rock salt as well as lin- 250 g flour flour, salt, baking powder, bak- seed oil, which lend her dishes a certain 1 tsp: fine salt, baking soda ing soda, and cinnamon in a something. 2 tsp: baking powder, bowl. Whisk sugar and eggs Her tip for hobby cooks: don’t skimp on cinnamon in large bowl. Add oil and melt- Don’t skimp on herbs! herbs! Start small, get to know the herbs 400 g white sugar ed butter to the egg mixture. Start small, get to know slowly, and then expand your repertoire 225 ml vegetable oil Whisk until combined. Add step by step. To begin with, standard vari- 4 large eggs carrots to wet mixture. Mix the herbs slowly, and eties will be sufficient. And then, how about 60 g melted butter with a wooden spoon until some balm or perhaps marigold? At a later 2–3 heaping packed cups raw combined. Add the flour mix- then expand your time, tarragon and lemon verbena are add- finely grated carrots ture and the nuts. Mix gently ed, and in the winter, the modest cress. 150 g finely crushed until there are no dry spots repertoire step by step.” Which herb goes well with each dish is pineapple, drained left. Pour into greased baking essentially a question of individual taste. 1/2 cup finely chopped dish. Bake 45 minutes. Let According to Maier, “one has to sample the pecans (optional) cool completely (at least 1–2 herbs as the palate is the best compass to 1/2 cup finely chopped hours) before frosting. In order to make life easier for herself and culinary harmony.” walnuts (optional) for other hobby cooks, Maier has created Frosting: Mix butter and around 20 different blends of spices. Her Nature as a shopping-aid For the frosting: cream cheese until well com- most important message sounds as calming When selecting the dishes and ingredients, 60 g unsalted butter, softened bined and whipped. Add the as a mug of chamomile tea: “You don’t need Maier always aligns herself with nature and 150 g cream cheese, softened powdered sugar a portion at rare varieties for everyday cooking. You the seasons, with their inherent scents, 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla a time. Beat the mixture un- just take what you like to eat”, advises Mai- aromas and moods. Her recommendation 300 g powdered sugar til it becomes light and fluffy. er. Plenty of chives go a long way – further for the everyday kitchen: lots of vegetables, Add the vanilla. Cover the Rosemary than using a large number of different fruit and whole grain products, but go easy What’s your favorite recipe? entire top of the cake with herbs. Maier’s professional kitchen is nev- on the sugar, salt and meat. And, of course, We want to hear from our frosting. Cover with plastic This aromatic, spicy herb readers! Send us your complements meat and er short of rosemary, chives, parsley, orega- according to Maier, perfect spiciness is an wrap and refrigerate for at favorite recipe, along with a tomato dishes as well as no and mint, as well as lemon thyme for integral part of every meal: “Just like end- photograph. least 2–4 hours. Best served Mediterranean vegetable fish dishes. In the summer, basil is added, ing a sentence with a period, cooking when the cake is cold and the dishes. Large stems may [email protected] double as aroma-infusing and in the winter, sage. should be completed by herbs or spices.” frosting is firmly set. skewers

20 21 Exploring Life

INFOBOX !

For the longest time it has been assumed that there are roughly ten times as many My microorganisms inside the human body as there are body cells. These numbers were based on a 1972 study by the microbiologist Thomas Luckey. In 2016, a team of re- searchers led by Dr. Ron Sender, Dr. Shai Fuchs and Dr. Ron Milo of the Weizmann Microbiome Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel, per- formed their own calculations, according to which the average human is made up of Our bodies – inside and out – are practically teeming roughly 30 trillion body cells – which com- prise, on average, 43 percent of all cells. with microscopic life forms, which together make up our The rest is made up of our microbiome. For microbiome. How it is connected with different types of bacteria in the human gut, are distinctly different the scientists, the basis of these calcula- from those found in the soil or in water, but that tions was the “reference human” – weigh- diseases is currently the subject of intense research. they are in fact related to those found in other mam- ing 70 kg at a height of 170 cm and between mals. “We are therefore talking about coevolution 20 and 30 years of age. In individual cases, of mammals and microbes”, says Ley. The next goal double, or perhaps only half, that number will be to understand the role that microbes play of bacteria may colonize the body, but defi- in the evolution of humans. To this end, she is re- nitely not ten times the number. searching the human microbiome in relation to human genetics. These studies have the potential to open doors to new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of chronic autoimmune diseases, which are on the rise in today’s society. “At the moment, we are strongly focusing on type 2 diabetes”, says Ley, “We are looking at certain lipids – the sphingolipids.” Sphin- golipids are produced by bacteria as well as by the human body. Knowledge on how bacteria might influence the sphingolipid values inside the body may also be relevant for the role of insulin resistance as a precursor to diabetes. In addition, alteration of the microbiome may lead to promising treatment robiotic yogurt, special gut diets and health strategies for illnesses such as malnutrition or in- checks that include a stool test – the mar- flammation within the intestinal tract. lyzed them for their bacterial composition. McDon- ketP for products for the gut flora has been booming Even though research into this area of microbiol- ald: “The numbers vary considerably between dif- for years. Science and industry alike are focusing ogy is still in its infancy, health-promoting products ferent samples. Overall, we estimate a ratio of 1:1 on the human microbiome, i.e. the big picture of all are already flooding the market. Probiotics and pre- between body cells and single-celled organisms organisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi and biotics are said to support the intestinal flora while within the body.” archaea in our bodies. It is a proven fact that the strengthening the intestinal immune system. “How- “Average values such as these, however, make only microorganisms in the human gut in fact impact our ever, we are still a long way from being able to address limited sense where the microbiome is concerned”, health – they help us with digestion, and they prevent intestinal bacteria with such products in a meaning- explains McDonald. Many products of the health and Microbiome the spread of pathogens inside our intestinal tracts. ful way”, says Ley. In order to understand why current food industries that are targeting the gut flora are Microorganisms such Would targeted treatment of bacteria within the gut science doubts the effectiveness of products designed based on average values, which is why their effec- as bacteria, viruses & therefore be capable of influencing the health of the to influence the intestinal flora, insight into the com- tiveness remains doubtful to scientists. The connec- Co. have been proven to influence our health patient? position of the microbiome is crucial. tion between the microbiome and the metabolism has been confirmed – as shown by an experiment Research into the intestinal flora Who am I, and if so, how many? conducted on sterile mice, which, after treatment Dr. Ruth Ley of the Max Planck Institute for Devel- “If we want to be exact, we are for the most with human gut bacteria, either gained or lost weight, opmental Biology at the University of Tübingen in part more bacterium than human – depend- depending on the composition of the intestinal bac- Germany has dedicated her research to the micro- ing on when we had our bowel movement”, teria. Nevertheless, the question how these results biome. She wants to know more about the relation- says Dr. Daniel McDonald of the American Gut may be transferred to man still remains open to Mc- ship between intestinal bacteria and the human Project. Over the past four years, he and his team Donald: “Research on mice is distinctly different from body. For example, her team has discovered that have been collecting stool samples from more than research involving humans. Applying these results microbes, i.e. microorganisms such as fungi or ten thousand people in the US, and they have ana- to humans is therefore extremely difficult.”

22 23 Exploring Life The Center of the Body 1 Smart Gut Detox diet? Superfood? Colonic irriga- The gut – in all likelihood the most tion? Those who do not suffer from seri- underrated organ in the human body. ous health problems can simply rely on their gut – without any extra treatment. Three tips for a healthy gut flora. The intestinal lining, including all surface We will one day be able to cells, self-renews at regular intervals. A healthy diet, therefore, is all the gut re- tap into the microbiome in ally needs. Only if health issues arise will the gut signal that something is amiss. order to influence health Even then, a trip to the doctor is the first using specific microbes study conducted by the Weizmann Institute of Sci- course of action – before considering ence, however, showed that many products that are diets or irrigation. in the same way that we available over the counter may in fact turn out to be harmful. Before the proper products can be recom- Good & Bad use vitamins.” mended for a certain individual microbiome with 2 confidence, additional studies on the connection The bowel harbors good bacteria and between bacteria and health are needed. “We can bad bacteria – a balanced ratio between already understand those connections – the under- the two is paramount for good gut lying mechanisms, however, are difficult to define”, health. This can be achieved through a explains McDonald, while maintaining an optimistic balanced diet and, in particular, through stance. “We are so close to the breakthrough.” the consumption of probiotic foods. Fresh fruit and vegetables, unsaturated fatty acids and fiber have a positive in- New areas of research BOOK SUGGESTION If this breakthrough were to occur, and if the infor- fluence on the intestinal flora; animal mation gained was able to provide immediate infor- ! products on the other hand – especial- Experts discourage stool analysis mation on the health of a person, medicine would ly milk, cheese and red meat – are Despite these limitations, today, stool sample anal- be able to access a whole new array of possibilities. best consumed in moderation. ysis is capable of providing valuable information on A single stool sample might be sufficient to provide the DNA within the microbiome; for example, the targeted, individualized treatment of the intestinal Stress is Fattening combination of bacteria may determine whether a flora, or combat diseases or parasites, using drugs bacterial infection is present. Diagnoses of possible or other products. Scientists like Daniel McDonald In order to provide sufficient energy for diseases or personalized recommendations for ac- of the American Gut Project will continue to collect the day, the stress hormone CRF (corti- tion, however, are not reliable, as the reference val- samples in order to provide the scientific commu- cotropin releasing factor) creates small ues on which such results are based simply represent nity with as large a data set as possible. The more fat deposits every morning. In cases of averages. Each value that subsequently differs from is known about the microbiome, the more areas of too much stress (fear of exams, fear of the average of the reference human will then gen- research are bound to open up. Ruth Ley of the Max flying), the hormone can trigger indi- erate new variables which, in principle, could form Planck Institute, too, is optimistic about the future: Is the gut really charming? In gestion, vomiting and diarrhea. The gut the basis of a brand new study. Such studies are “Once we understand the mechanism, once we iden- her debut book “Gut – the is home to more than 100 million nerve actually available on a small scale. tify the molecules that are exchanged between the Inside Story of Our Body’s cells – chronic stress may thus cause Freely available test kits will analyze the intestinal microbiome and its host, we will one day be able to Most Underrated Organ”, Gi- damage to the gut. flora at one point in time or at successive time points, tap into the microbiome in order to influence health ulia Enders does not beat and these results will lead to the generation of advice using specific microbes in the same way that we use around the bush – she dis- on nutrition or recommendations for action, such vitamins.” cusses farts, constipation and as diets or the addition of nutritional supplements. gut bacteria, and she explains The German Society for Gastroenterology, Digestive why the gut is most likely our and Metabolic Diseases (DGVS) cautions that at the most underrated organ. present time, the stool test lacks the required sci- 3 entific basis. However, commerce involving pre- “Gut – the Inside Story of biotic and probiotic supplements, in particular, has Our Body’s Most Underrat- picked up speed in parallel with the rapid develop- ed Organ”; Giulia Enders; ments in the field of intestinal research. A recent 304 pages; $17.95; Grey- stone Books

24 25 Exploring Life Exploring Life

s n a ts s n e u s s g te h ilk tac an an ut Eg lu is M Cr us Pe Soybe N G F

Peril on developed a process that allows the direct In addition, a reduction of the gluten-con- detection and determination of those protein tent of wheat by means of the gene scis- INFOBOX components (epitopes) which are recognized sors has recently been successfully ! by the soy-allergy sufferer’s antibodies, and achieved by researchers in Spain. Anti- which thus trigger the allergy, directly from body assays showed that immune reactiv- During the course of a true food the Plate the antibodies present in the serum. By ap- ity following the consumption of the mod- allergy, the immune system re- plying this method, the researchers detect- ified bread and durum wheat was reduced acts to the proteins in a specific The prevalence of food allergies and ana- ed 374 allergy-relevant epitopes in soy. Using by up to 85 percent as compared to the food. Often, minute amounts of Allergy sufferers are longing for foods phylactic reactions is on the rise in Western different heating methods, as well as treat- control group. Similar successes have pre- that food are sufficient to trigger industrialized nations. One of the causes, ment with plasma, pulsed UV-light, gam- viously been attained by researchers in symptoms. Cross-sensitivities that they can enjoy without second thought. researchers suspect, includes the increased ma-radiation and high pressure, chemical, the US and Spain using RNA interference against pollen-associated foods, New molecular processes may be able to utilization of peanuts. Peanuts are found enzymatic and fermenting processes, the (RNAi), a method which blocks genes in however, are an entirely different in granola bars, chocolate, sauces and researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for a targeted fashion. entity. For example, a person ease their lives. Even so, hypoallergenic ready-made meals – even in shampoos and Process Technology and Packaging (IVV) People who suffer from a milder cross-sen- who is allergic to airborne birch body lotions. According to estimates, 5.4 subsequently altered soy proteins in such a sitivity may find relief by simply choosing a or hazelnut pollen will often products are still a long way away. million people suffer from a dangerous way that they have become less allergenic. different variety. As such, researchers at the not tolerate certain fruits such peanut allergy in the US and Europe alone. Technical University in Munich, Germany, as apples, cherries or kiwis. In Genome editing with CRISPR/Cas9 discovered that with tomatoes and straw- these cases, the immune system Soy for starters Genome editing processes, too, have yield- berries, for example, the allergen content confuses the apple with birch Thus far, allergy sufferers have only one ed promising results. This method allows varies considerably across individual vari- pollen. All other reactions to food option: they must avoid foods that contain the switching off of certain genes in plants eties – a phenomenon that has been known constitute food intolerances, i.e. their trigger. This is the reason that scien- so that ribosomes inside the cells will no to occur also in apples. The results will serve non-allergenic hypersensitivities. tists are now working on the development longer produce the allergy-triggering pro- as a basis for the selected breeding of hy- While these hypersensitivities eath lurks on the supermarket of hypoallergenic foods. To this end, they teins. The new CRISPR/Cas9 process is poallergenic varieties. are caused by mechanisms dis- shelf. Cow’s milk, nuts, soy, are developing methods which will first precise and easy to use. Using so-called Despite scientific progress, it still re- tinct from the immune system, Dwheat, fish or eggs: if such ingredients hide identify those components which trigger “gene scissors”, researchers can alter the mains doubtful whether foods for extreme- their symptoms frequently re- in, for example, ready-made meals, and an the allergy, and subsequently neutralize genomes of plants by cutting, switching off ly vulnerable allergy sufferers will ever semble those of “true” allergies. unsuspecting allergy sufferer is not careful, them. “Until now, with the sole exception or inserting new gene sequences. reach supermarket shelves. “Marketing of the worst outcome may be death. “Food of baby food, no hypoallergenic foods are Scientists at the Biotech start up Aranex hypoallergenic foods produced from ge- allergies are not a trend or a lifestyle available on the market. Their production at the University of Warwick, among others, netically modified crops is currently not choice”, emphasizes the managing director is highly complex”, says Dr. Michael are employing the gene scissors to knock feasible as these varieties would have to be of the American organization FARE® (Food Szardenings of the Fraunhofer Institute for out three peanut allergens. It is, however, accurately differentiated from unmodified, Allergy Research & Education®), Lisa Gable. Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI) in considered unlikely that this will be sufficient fully allergenic varieties”, states a Ger- “Families and adults living with this disease Leipzig, Germany. This has been partly due to protect allergy sufferers. The peanut, man-American team of researchers in the must be vigilant at all times, because in a to the fact that the specific allergenicity of after all, contains many additional allergy- journal Molecular Allergy Diagnostics. matter of minutes, an allergic reaction can foods could not be established. triggering proteins. If all genes responsible This renders the production process risky send someone to the emergency room with This is exactly what Szardenings and col- were to be excised, the plant, most likely, and expensive – and therefore less attrac- anaphylaxis.” leagues have now achieved for soy. They would not be able to survive. tive to companies.

26 27 Exploring Life Exploring Life

Iconic Keeper of Rare A bronze statue of a panda expresses the bond between the Panda Base and the animals he Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda TBreeding (also known as “Panda Base”), situated in a northern sub- Species urb of Chengdu City, in Sichuan Province in China, specializes in the research, protection, breeding The Panda Base in Chengdu, China, is dedicated to the and management of rare animals including pandas. Importantly, the protection and breeding of the gentle giants and other rare species, Panda Base is an expert facility as well as to research – a commitment with global impact. which prepares the pandas that were bred in captivity for their eventual release into the wild. The facility, which covers an area of 102 hectares, was built in 1987, with major funding from the Chengdu municipal government; a phase III expansion of the facility was com- pleted in 2009. Besides serving as a public education center, the Pan- Technology and Sichuan Province, da Base is engaged in such diverse and the main Sichuan Provincial initiatives as ex-situ protection, Laboratory – the “Sichuan Provin- Interview scientific research and breeding, cial Endangered Wildlife Protection international cooperation and ex- Biology Key Laboratory” and the change, field research, public ed- “National Post-Doctoral Scientific The special focus ucation, ecological tourism and Research Workstation”. The suc- of the Panda Base: its cultural brand creation, as well as cesses of the institution include other roles for Chinese pandas. more than 70 scientific research scientific research. It all began when six sick and findings, scientific and technolog- starving pandas were successfully ical achievements. The Panda Base saved in the 1980s. Since that time, has published more than 400 pa- the Panda Base has bred a total of pers in domestic as well as interna- Mr. Zhang, I see that your background is 166 embryos and 255 panda ba- tional journals. in molecular biology. bies, of which 184 are thriving to Through its combined animal Zhang Wenping: That’s right. I have this day. Today, the Panda Base welfare and conservation efforts, been involved in molecular biology since holds the world’s largest artificial the Panda Base has been able to my postgraduate studies. panda breeding protection pro- make outstanding contributions to gram, while at the same time it is the promotion and continuous de- Could you briefly introduce the role that home to 103 lesser pandas and velopment of global captive panda molecular technologies play in panda other rare animals such as black protection and research efforts. protection? swans and peacocks. The Panda Base is internationally Zhang Wenping: At the very beginning, in recognized as the Panda ex-situ 2003, we employed molecular biology tech- Advocacy and outreach Conservation Demonstration Unit nologies to study the genetic diversity of As one of the major research insti- with the strongest scientific and pandas, and we adopted microsatellite mark- tutions of the “Endangered Wildlife technological capabilities and ers to perform paternity tests. My doctoral ex-situ Conservation Project”, im- achievements, as well as for its out- project concerned the genetic diversity of plemented by the Chinese govern- standing contributions to captive South China tigers. Beginning in 2008, we ment, the Panda Base continues to panda protection at home and started using high-throughput sequencing promote the healthy development abroad. In June 2017, “Mengmeng” methods to analyze the intestinal flora of of captive pandas, and it supports and “Jiaoqing”, pandas born in the pandas. Further improvements in technolo- wild in-situ conservation through Chengdu Research Base of Giant gy will definitely help enhance our research. Cute, popular and technological means. The institu- Panda Breeding, arrived at the Ber- endangered tion houses the main National Lab- lin Zoo in Germany. They play an We see that you mentioned in your latest The loss of its habitat impacts the oratory Breeding Base, jointly built important role in further promoting research that pandas eat bamboo to main- Giant Panda by the Ministry of Science and Chinese-German friendship. tain the energy needs for their daily

28 29 Exploring Life

which the clones were derived. We then gradually developed the 454 sequencing method. It generates longer readouts, up to 200 bp through joining, and we now rely on the MiSeq second-generation sequenc- In need of protection The offspring enjoy ing method. an ideal environment in which to thrive Are your results based on gel or capillary electrophoresis? Wild pandas mainly eat Zhang Wenping: We used the capillary electrophoresis method for identification. bamboo and bamboo shoots with The abundance of a target gene, as well as a high content of hemicellulose gene polymorphisms, and rough point mu- tations may be visualized in this way. In and starch. For this reason, their contrast, qPCR will only detect the abun- dance of a gene; it is not able to elucidate food source must be protected, and the number of different variable fragments of a gene. When analyzing the intestinal bamboo should not to be cut content of pandas, this method helps us excessively.” determine whether animals have round- worms and how many roundworms there are in their bellies.

Your analysis is mainly based on ex- crement. Do you have other sample sources? Zhang Wenping: Because pandas are very special, we mainly use non-invasive activity, and that the energy is in fact tion of pandas? We know that the pandas’ sample collection methods, such as excre- derived not from the cellulose, but from survival had been impacted previously ment and urine. They are preferable to Visitor magnet blood sampling even though processing is The Panda Base as a other nutrients found within bamboo. by changes affecting their food source. popular destination Could you briefly introduce the work that Zhang Wenping: We were able to define more difficult. We monitor our pandas, and for interested visitors is conducted in this field of research? the nutrients most important to pandas: when we find excrement, we collect it and Zhang Wenping: When I started work- wild pandas mainly eat bamboo and bam- send it to the laboratory for processing as ing on the subject, I also felt the cellulose boo shoots with a high content of hemicel- soon as possible. After washing with PBS, and the lignin of bamboo should be the lulose and starch. For this reason, their food it is snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen and main nutrients that provide energy to pan- source must be protected,and bamboo transferred to -80° for long-time storage. das. However, we soon found that from should not to be cut excessively. In the birth to subadult, the pandas’ cellulosic 1980s, as bamboo bloomed, a shortage in Your processing method is somewhat flora does not increase gradually. We now the pandas’ food ensued, and as a result, similar to sample pretreatment for me- believe that pandas have a very limited their survival was greatly affected. tabolome analysis. ability to digest and degrade cellulose. In Zhang Wenping: Yes. We plan to get contrast, during the period from birth to You mentioned that metagenome analysis involved with metabolome analysis next, subadult, their flora capable of digesting is used to research panda excrement. and our project will concern multi-group hemicelluloses and starch increases, and Could you briefly describe the application conjoint analysis to find related target spot the expression of a gene family related to of the metagenome in this research? objects and confirm their causal relation- these floras also gradually increases. We Zhang Wenping: The metagenome con- ship. In addition, we will conduct more concluded that pandas obtain their energy tains all bacteria, fungi, viruses and other in-depth research into the metagenome through digesting the hemicellulose and microorganisms. In the beginning, we ex- of the intestinal tract of pandas. For ex- starch present in bamboo, whereas cellu- tracted total DNA from the excrement or ample, we will confirm which floras are lose may simply play a subsidiary role. the bacterial suspension. The DNA includ- beneficial or harmful to the health of pan- Engaged protector of ed the DNA of various microorganisms, and das, and we aim to provide a theoretical animal welfare The director of the Could you elaborate on the importance of we used the method of 16s database build- basis for more scientific and reasonable Chengdu Panda Base, this research on the breeding and protec- ing to help identify the exact bacteria from feeding practices. Prof. Dr. Zhang Wenping

30 31 Exploring Life Exploring Life To the Beat of the Metropolis n the runway of Haneda Airport, an air traffic controller in a neon- Oyellow vest is bowing before the plane that Tokyo is a place between two worlds. Ultra- has just landed: my first glimpse of Tokyo and Japanese custom. At the airport train modern and traditional, intrusive and shrill station I wait for the Tokyo monorail. Beside and – sometimes – really, really quiet. me, a man is cleaning the concrete floor with a vacuum cleaner, while another, car- Visiting a city of fascinating contrast. rying a sponge in one hand, travels up and down the escalator to clean the space be- tween the handrail and the adjacent wall. Pleasant melodies announce the arrival of the punctual train that will take me in the direction of Akihabara in only 20 minutes. This neighborhood is known for its large number of electronics shops and it is con- sidered the center of Japanese otaku cul- ture. This is where otakus, the passionate fans of animes, mangas and video games will find the right equipment for their hob- bies in one of the many shops. Even a lei- surely walk through the streets of Akihaba- ra proves taxing to the senses. I walk a bit too close to one of the many Pachinko halls. An automatic door opens and I am at once enveloped in a shrill cacophony of Japanese plastic pop music and extremely loud ca- sino noises. Amidst blinding, twitching strobe light, young people smoke and op- erate brightly colored slot machines. Around the corner, in one of the numerous maid cafés, young women dressed as maids invite passers-by to tea and pastries.

Creative kawaii culture What Akihabara is to the otakus of manga and anime, this is what Harajuku means to young Japanese fashion enthusiasts. As early as the 1970s, a unique fashion style emerged along the Takeshita Dori that is oriented towards the esthetic principle of kawaii (English: cute) and which displays pronounced cuteness. The sauntering young women in their pink lace blouses A well-known face and sky-blue tulle skirts, who wear spar- Shrill, colorful, kling tiaras or furry bunny ears on their loud – that is Tokyo. heads, appear as if straight out of a manga. But the metropolis has another side to it The culinary selection in Harajuku is also “kawaii”. At the “Angels Heart” café,

32 33 Shibuya 109 Moments of peace Exploring Life An absolute must-see: The Rikugi-en the spectacle at Garden is for those Tokyo’s most famous who cherish silence intersection

which has been serving sweet crêpe-cre- transport visitors to an elevation of 202 It is exemplified in one of the many iza- ations since 1977, I select a strawberry meters. I arrive shortly before 11 pm, and kayas, the mostly small and very cozy pubs cheesecake crêpe with plenty of whipped the view through the panoramic windows where, besides beer and sake, traditional cream, fresh strawberries – and a piece of is simply stunning. foods are served. Such is the case in the cheesecake in the center. For dessert, I buy Tokyo sparkles; it flashes and it teems. Sakai Shokai, located a mere six minutes’ pastel-colored cotton candy, directly across Those who have the privilege of viewing its walk from Shibuya Station, in the the street, at the Totti Candy Factory. Hold- ocean of light from above will sense its spe- 3-chime-6-18. Sitting at its long wooden ing the massive colorful cotton candy, I cial energy. Everything is illuminated, ev- bar, I am in the perfect spot to watch the blend right in. erything is moving. The beat of Tokyo at its owner prepare fresh sashimi. most intense – simply experience the fa- I catch a glimpse of the old soul of Tokyo An ocean of light mous “all go” intersection between Shibuya while I take a walk through the narrow alleys Each Tokyo neighborhood is a microcosm Station and the shopping street Center-gai, of the Yanaka Quarter which had escaped unto itself. More than nine million people only seven minutes from Shinjuku via the WWII undamaged. Many old wooden hous- live in the Japanese capital; an additional Yamanote Line. At peak times, 15,000 pe- es, more than one hundred temples and the Typical Tokyo 37 million people reside in the metropolitan destrians cross the street during a single cemetery steeped in history are reminiscent Yakitori Alley is region Tokyo-Yokohama, the world’s larg- light cycle – up to one million per day. of the Edo period – similar to the Rikugi-en renowned for its est and most densely populated metropol- Park in the Tokyo district of Bunkyō. 20 barbecued delicacies on a skewer itan area. Those who wish to get a feel for The old soul of Tokyo minutes away by train, Rikugi-en Park is the dimensions of this gigantic city must This side of Tokyo gives the impression of considered one of the most notable gardens travel to a higher elevation – for example, being shrill, ultra-modern and a little out of that era, where time seems to stand still. the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan of breath. People on trains are tired, some In the midst of this park, you will find the Government Building in the neighborhood even fall asleep standing up. Those who tea house Fukiage Chaya. I order a bowl of of Shinjuku, also known as “Tokyo’s City take a closer look will discover, beyond the matcha, glance across the small lake, and Hall”. The observation platform is open flashing neon signs and beneath the tight- in the distance I see the skyscrapers of between 9:30 am and 11 pm, and entry is ly woven carpet of commercial jingles, the lively Tokyo. This is the other side of the free. In only 55 seconds, an elevator will quiet side of Tokyo. city. Quiet and slow.

LET’S GO! BIOPHARMA EXPO 2019 Food, panoramic views and art: For a break from fast-pacedTokyo, Takaosanguchi Station. Several The BioPharma Expo is tips for a complete visit to Tokyo and for a spectacular view of the hiking paths that are also suitable Japan’s largest exhibition city, a day trip to the 599-me- for beginners lead through a forest for biopharmaceutical ter-high local mountain Takaosan to the viewing platform. Once you technologies, and it Tokyo is an exciting and creative city when is the perfect destination. If the have arrived at the destination, encompasses the areas of it comes to the culinary arts. Those who weather is good, one may be able many small restaurants offer re- Research & Development wish to take tea with the Mad Hatter like to see Mount Fuji. Roughly 50 freshments. Those who prefer not technologies, manufacturing Alice in Wonderland are invited to first nav- minutes from Shinjuku by train on to hike can easily reach Takaosan technologies, and services. igate the maze of the Queen of Hearts in the Keio Line, one will reach via cable car. It takes place every year in Shinjuku. Particularly colorful foods are on Tokyo as part of the the menu in Alice’s Fantasy Restaurant. japan-guide.com/e/e3029.html INTERPHEX Week Japan – 1 Those who feel so inclined may wear rabbit Asia’s leading event for the ears or cat ears while dining. Fans of the 2 pharmaceutical industry with Ghibli anime classic “My Neighbor Totoro” roughly 1,350 exhibitors should make their way to Shirohige’s Interactive and limitless – this is how art is best experi- and 300 speakers, as well as Cream Puff Factory in the Tokyo district enced in the Digital Art Museum in the Tokyo neigh- visitors from Japan and all over of Setagaya. This is where cream puffs in borhood of Odaiba. The art collective teamLab set out Asia. Between July 3rd and the shape of the cute forest ghost are to create barrier-free art and new sensory experiences. 5th, 2019, Eppendorf is served, filled with peach, chestnut or car- More than 500 computers and projectors control the looking forward to welcoming amel-banana cream. The café is small and installations. In the “Flower Forest”, flowers in all shapes you with a broad portfolio the cream puffs are popular. It is best to and colors are on exhibit; in another room, a massive and plenty of expertise on make reservations in advance. virtual waterfall is falling from the ceiling. Some of the current and innovative topics colorful installations can be controlled by the visitors via on all things laboratory. alice-restaurant.com app. It is best to order tickets in advance online. https://bit.ly/2Co8I4n shiro-hige.com borderless.teamlab.art 3

34 35 Exploring Life Exploring Life

in order to generate results that will Keepers of be ready for application.” This is predicted to take a few years. At this time, phage therapy is not ap- proved for humans in Germany. But Rohde had already helped extend the life of Ropen – the Indian one- Microbes horned rhinoceros at the Nurem- berg Zoo who had a serious infec- tion and where antibiotics had not The scientists at the Leibniz Institute DSMZ in been effective. Only the phages obtained from DSMZ were able to Braunschweig conduct their research in the extend his life and prevented him realm of the invisible. Their findings serve the from being put to sleep at the time. Ropen later died in 2017 at the old- protection of humankind, the earth and space. age of 29.

Exchange with the entire world and protection of space Phages are a powerful example of the importance of exchange among researchers. It is therefore not a surprise that DSMZ, with its vast collection of microbes, is a sought-after contact for scientists, For global research e cannot see them fungi, cell lines of human, animal The German Collection of diagnostic laboratories and indus- with our naked eye, and plant origin, plus plant-viruses Microorganisms and Cell trial firms worldwide; they can Wyet they define life on earth – bac- and antisera as well as genetic ma- Cultures (DSMZ) houses simply order samples online from more than 50,000 cultures teria, phages, viruses and fungi. terial from bacteria, are stored in the DSMZ shop. Roughly 40,000 Microorganisms have existed on vials, frozen tanks and culture ves- packages carrying valuable sample this planet for roughly four billion sels at the DSMZ. material leave the laboratories in years: they make up 70 percent of Braunschweig annually and arrive the total biomass on earth. For Phages, instead of antibiotics, in the hands of approximately thousands of years they were in- can save lives 10,000 customers in 90 countries. visible to the human eye. Only They reveal how microbial diversi- ers and doctors already took ad- In return, many scientists from when scholars began to use the ty has arisen throughout the course vantage of these entities during the around the world donate their own first microscopes, towards the end of evolution, and how micro- last century. biological materials to their col- of the 17th century, did micro- organisms are involved in the caus- Shortly after WWI, more than leagues in Braunschweig and their biology emerge as a research field. es, and in the control of, disease. 1,000 staff worked at the Georgi open collection, complete with More centuries passed before This comprises a particularly vital Eliava Institute for Bacteriophages annotated information. researchers discovered the con- field of study, as classic medicine in Tiflis, the capital city of Georgia. And that is not all. The scope of nection between health, disease is increasingly reaching its limita- They produced large amounts of the microbe-specialist is continuing and microbes. tions. Antibiotics, the presumed phages in massive fermenters. to expand. Latest results have un- These days, the importance of wonder drugs of the 20th century, ulations in the Department of “These were used by the Russian covered the fact that certain micro- microbes is uncontested. At the capitulate before multidrug-resis- Bio-Economics and Health at the Army in WWII for prophylactic as organisms can survive extreme DSMZ – Deutsche Sammlung von tant pathogens. According to an Leibniz Institute DSMZ in Braun- well as curative purposes against conditions such as those found in Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen analysis published by the Europe- schweig. “But now we have en- infection”, says Rohde. “In Tiflis, clean rooms or in space. In collab- GmbH (German Collection of Mi- an Antimicrobial Resistance Sur- tered an era where desperation is an immeasurable wealth of experi- oration with the European Space croorganisms and Cell Cultures) veillance Network (EARS-Net), spreading in the face of resistance. ence is archived, but unfortunately, Agency ESA, the DSMZ is conduct- – one of the largest bio-resource more than 30,000 people per year We have to move quickly and find all the early studies were published ing research on these resilient or- centers worldwide, which is cele- die from these killer pathogens in alternatives. Luckily, such alterna- in Russian”, regrets Rohde. “We are ganisms. This research is conduct- brating its 50th anniversary this the EU alone. tives do exist. Bacteriophages – only at the beginning of our own ed in order to prevent the year, microbes are archived as well “We were spoiled by antibiot- tiny viruses – attack harmful bac- research, and we need a lot of mon- accidental distribution of such mi- as studied. More than 50,000 cul- ics”, summarizes Dr. Christine teria, colonize them, use them for ey and our own published clinical crobes in space. A branch of sci- tures, among them thousands of Rohde, Head of the Research their own reproduction and finally studies which comply with the ence that would excite even Mr. different strains of bacteria and Group for Clinical Phages and Reg- lyse and destroy them. Research- norms of “Good Scientific Practice” Spock of Star Trek: “Fascinating.”

36 37 Exploring Life Lab ! Très chic!

DNA-earrings, petri dish Lifestyle pendants – even a necklace featuring Eppendorf pi- pettes: the jewelry by “som- ersault18:24” makes a re- searcher’s heart beat faster. Inspired by science, Idoya LOTTERY and Luk create beautiful Deceptively things from silver. “We add real new designs almost every week”, say the science-en- Take a slice of bread; slather thusiasts who invest $5 of it with peanut butter and wait the profit in educational Win Sunglasses! a couple of weeks, and soon resources for scientists, mold will sprout. A more es- students and teachers. With the warm season just around the corner, thetic and appetizing version are you looking forward to spending sunny is created by Elin Thomas: www.sciencejewelry1824.com hours outside? Win the new sky blue Eppen- the fiber artist builds her sci- dorf sunglasses or, better yet, equip your ence experiments using a entire team! Simply answer the following felted wool base and then question: carefully crafts individual growths using crochet and The new mechanical and electronic multi- embroidery techniques. channel pipettes by Eppendorf are available Each petri dish is a small with how many channels? Tip: take a peek masterpiece in itself! at page 44! , elinthomas.bigcartel.com Send us an e-mail to magazine@eppendorf. com or register as a subscriber and leave us Science meets Poetry ! a message with the correct answer. Please find the terms and conditions on our website. If we cannot find the right words, we often end up verse, which I publish from time to time on Insta- talking at cross-purposes. This is true in particular gram, alongside photographs of my scientific work. www.eppendorf.com/otb in the field of biomedical research, where the con- Other works are presented on the stage in front of versation between clinics and the pharmaceutical hundreds, and sometimes thousands, of people at industry moves between entirely different linguis- the “Science Slams” that are held regularly tic frames of reference. Neither our academic ca- throughout Germany. The goal is to present one’s At the Bench reer path nor public perception particularly value research in a way that is both clear and entertain- science communication – which is why the ability ing to a general audience. The lyrics form an es- to describe our endeavors in a comprehensible sential part of my performance, as they are pre- Dr. Lorenz Adlung manner is withering on the vine. sented in the form of a rap. It certainly contains was born in 1989 in the On a personal level, playing with the words of an element of surprise – the audience is not ex- picturesque city of Erfurt in science can be quite rewarding. The vagueness of pecting a presentation of this nature. Thuringia/Germany. He is widely known as a science ® terminology opens the door to the freedom of cre- YouTube videos prove that, following the initial enthusiast, who now ativity. Creative management of words is poetry. silence of disbelief, the lyrics are then celebrated conducts his research on systems biology and Few expect synergy between rhyming verse and frenetically; an impression that has been confirmed personalized medicine at scientific fact, and as a result, audiences are sur- during a poetry reading of science-inspired works the Weizmann Institute of prised when I recite my poetry of science. that I had organized recently. Science in Israel. His work can be found under his For the past few years, I have been attempting The reactions and the feedback received from name on various social to describe my research in such a way that it can the guests at such events prove that science com- media platforms, as well as be understood by all. I create metaphors to portray munication can have an inspirational effect and on his blog: my work to my fellow humans. The art of commu- that this is indeed appreciated. Science meets https://lorenzadlung. nication in science has guided me from prose to poetry? Bullseye! wordpress.com

www.eppendorf.com/pipetting 38 39 Help! Help! Stay One Step Ahead Cool Turns Green

Besides direct CO2 emissions, the hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used in cooling systems like ULT freezers increase global warming. As a of Your Future Needs result, there is a move from hydrofluorocarbons to green gases.

Smart laboratory Flexible and smart carbon co ® ro ol VisioNize – the d in y g equipment with intuitive intelligent way H to manage one’s 1 user experience: lay laboratory YEARS b f y r the foundation for your Eppendo smart workplace with VisioNize

The future is green Eppendorf freezers comply with the highest environmental standards

f you are familiar with Eppendorf in- struments, you know that we put all Iour efforts and extensive experience into ustainability discussions mainly continue to run with HFCs. Still, green units in R&D, production, logistics, and service every device to support you and your lab focus on energy consumption. are expedient for new ULT freezers to coun- in the field, we are happy to see the concept with every step you take. SUltra-low temperature (ULT) freezers con- teract global warming. globally confirmed. Nowadays, the major- Eppendorf develops lab instruments sume lots of energy to maintain extremely Green or natural gases are aliases for ity of ULT freezers in Europe are sold as which come with onboard functions to help same intuitive framework, once you know low temperatures 24/7. Even by using new, hydrocarbons. The two major representa- green units. Asia and America are following Smart Storage you and your lab stay ahead. one device interface, you know them all – Your samples will energy efficient ULT freezers the power tives are propane (R290) and ethane suit. A growing number of users take green across product lines and platforms, intui- be on cloud nine. consumption is still high. Due to sample (R170). According to IEC 60335-2-89, no ULTs for granted. Evolve yourself and your lab with tive operation and distinct usability is safety, a dynamic compressor system and additional safety instructions for using Recent steps with respect to switching VisioNize ensured. Furthermore, you receive easy fast recovery rates are given. Energy saving green gases in ULT freezers are necessary. to future-proof, green cooling liquids have Familiar with VisioNize? Well, Eppendorf access to trend and tracking data with mul- rates are limited by these requirements. With this goal in mind, Eppendorf will been accomplished in our flagship series is here to share it with you. With Visio- tiple graphs directly on each device. Besides energy consumption, the insu- redesign all ULT freezers to green freezers of CryoCube® F740 freezers (F740h, Nize-onboard, your devices stay in line with lation foam as well as the type of cooling within the next few years. F740hi, and F740hiw (water-cooled)). But future-proof development. We strive to Explore your possibilities liquid has increasingly come into focus. this is only a further step in a long, green enable you to use state-of-the-art technol- We at Eppendorf strive to improve the lives When the ozone depleting CFC*-based Looking back to 2008 Eppendorf story. ogy and make your lab as convenient as of our customers. Our job does not end with cooling liquids (*chlorofluorocarbons) were The (Eppendorf) New Brunswick™ Premi- possible. Our freezers are not only ad- simply offering a smart device to our cus- phased out some years ago (based on the um U570-G was one of the very first ULT For additional information, please visit vanced, we transform them into smart tomer; it continues to grow as we improve Montreal Protocol), they were replaced by freezers in the market that used green cool- storage. We not only evolve cell cultivation, the processes and applications in your lab. alternative compounds such as hydrofluo- ing liquids. After ten years of experience eppendorf.com/freezers we transform cell culture with the smartest We know that Life Science revolves rocarbons (HFCs). Despite being better for technology and services to keep you on around the sample. As simple as that may keep your high value samples safe. We are the environment, HFCs like R508b and track, 24 / 7. sound, we never underestimate the effort taking safe sample storage beyond the R404a still have a high Global Warming you spent on every single sample and your freezer door and integrating it into your Potential (GWP). R170 R290 (Ethane) (Propane) Feel the difference need to keep them as secure as possible. larger laboratory workflow. Using our H H H H H You and your devices benefit from the built- That is why we go one step further and smart digital companion VisioNize, you can Hydrocarbons in VisioNize component. The VisioNize combine the longevity and quality of our confidently guide your lab toward a smart- In 2014, the European Union announced HCCH HCC CH touch interface provides an easy yet robust existing products with VisioNize, our dig- er future. a ban of all non-hydrocarbon-liquids by user experience and enables smart features ital companion. 2020 (EU_517/2014). The EU ban includes HH HHH like recurring tasks that help to relieve the In 2019, you not only get smart devices More information at: all new cooling devices except instruments burdens of your daily routines. Since all with VisioNize-onboard, we go further into for temperatures below −50 °C. Based on our VisioNize-onboard devices follow the the future and provide you a better way to eppendorf.com/visionize this exception, ULT freezers of −86 °C may Green cooling liquids = HC gases = Natural gases = Future-Proof

40 41 Eppendorf News Eppendorf News

Eppendorf & Science What Slows Down Prize: Johannes Kohl Parental behavior is essen- and then they form pools – Stem Cell Research? tial for the survival and defined by their projections well-being of mammalian – each of which controls dis- offspring, but the underlying crete aspects of parenting. neural mechanisms are in- This work might provide a Stem cell research harbors great potential, but the cultivation of these completely understood. The blueprint for how other German scientist Johannes types of social behaviors are sensitive cells proves to be anything but trivial. Kohl, PhD from Harvard Uni- controlled by the brain. versity® and winner of the In 2019, he will start his 2018 Eppendorf & Science own group at The Francis Prize for Neurobiology, Crick Institute in London, While it is essential to be nation as well as significant variations in showed under the mentor- investigating how physiolog- able to maintain the temperature. ship of Catherine Dulac that ical states affect information properties of self-renew- a genetically defined popu- processing in neural cir- al and continuous prolif- New Eppendorf solutions for stem cell lation of neurons deep in the cuits. Johannes Kohl hopes eration in cell culture for research brain coordinates the mo- to eventually open new ave- a sufficient period of Eppendorf has recently introduced two Johannes Kohl From postdoc at Harvard tor, motivational, hormonal nues for treatment of com- time, it is equally crucial novel product solutions which are specifi- University to principal and social aspects of paren- mon mental illnesses. that differentiation be cally geared towards increased reproduc- investigator – in 2019, ting. These neurons form a initiated in a targeted ibility in the area of stem cell research: the Johannes Kohl will start www.kohl-lab.org ® his own lab at the Francis hub in a brainwide circuit fashion and that it can be new CellXpert family of CO2 incubators Crick Institute in London steered in the desired and the CCCadvanced® FN1 motifs coated direction. In reality, how- cell culture vessels. ever, spontaneous differ- entiation and insufficient reproducibility are among the most fre- WHAT'S NEW quent problems. Accord- ! ingly, the demand for regulated, consistent Inside Cell Culture Newsletter Experience growth conditions is You are experienced in cell cul- high – in particular with ture and want to keep improving Eppendorf respect to the culture your knowledge? Maybe you are ver the past two decades, a vari- medium, the surface coating of the culture also looking for better resources Once again in 2019, Eppendorf will ety of research fields has experi- vessels that most stem cells require, as well that support your teaching and be represented at the Labvolution®, Oenced significant growth thanks to the avail- as the incubation atmosphere. training? Then the Eppendorf “In- where the entire world of the labo- ability of stem cells. In addition, the number side Cell Culture” Newsletter is ratory – from application to research, of clinical studies which evaluate the use of Approaches to solutions just perfect for you. from the chemical industry to the stem cells in degenerative diseases such as, In many cases today, synthetic culture life sciences – can be experienced for example, Parkinson´s, has increased media are used which preclude the natu- Get regular information about: first-hand. The exhibition takes place within the last few years. Cell cultivation has ral variability inherent in the composition • Tips and tricks to improve in Hanover, Germany, between May played a crucial role in the process. of biological media. If synthetic media are your daily work 21st and May 23rd, 2019. combined with synthetic surface coating, • Free videos, downloads, Visit the Eppendorf booth in ex- Current challenges completely serum-free, highly reproduc- posters and more hibition hall 20 / booth B69 and be Independent of their origins, two charac- ible culture conditions can be created. A • Access to advanced

inspired by the versatility of the teristics of stem cells are of significance: stable atmosphere inside the CO2 incuba- educational webinars Eppendorf product range, de- on the one hand, the fact that they contin- tor is another important factor, as even • Teaching support resources signed to make your work in the ually renew themselves and proliferate, and minute variations may potentially compro- • Upcoming events and laboratory easier and more effi- on the other hand, their ability to differen- mise cell viability or even trigger sponta- trainings cient. With this goal in mind, Ep- tiate into different cell types. Currently, neous differentiation. In this regard, daily pendorf develops products and these properties happen to be the source handling of the culture vessels outside the Learn more and sign up here: solutions in the areas of Liquid of the greatest practical challenges in stem incubator, for the purpose of visual checks, Handling, Cell Handling and Sam- cell culture as well as during downstream constitutes an extraordinary challenge; it https://bit.ly/2CrgPgK ple Handling. applications. is therefore paramount to avoid contami-

42 43 Eppendorf News Eppendorf News

ping of up to 24 reactions. It is now possible to mas- attach tips were reduced by a further 40 percent ter a 384 well plate in as little as one minute. It is per cone thanks to the innovative SOFTattach 384... worth it. How much time would you save per plate? Technology. An extremely fine tip shape, paired with excellent concentricity of the tip, turns ma- The innovation – epT.I.P.S.® 384 with neuvering of the tiny and delicate wells of a 384 SOFTattach Technology well plate into a surprisingly positive experience. But there is more at stake than time; the tiny delicate Ready. wells of a 384 well plate require special attention and finesse. Standard tips that are ideal for 96 well plates now appear too chunky for 384 well formats. The new epT.I.P.S.® 384 with their unique SOFTat- tach Technology thus provide the best possible peace of mind. For the very first time, elastic form- Set. ing grooves are used which are capable of adapting perfectly to the pipette cone. In this way, they secure INFOBOX an exceptional tip fit and therefore a reliable seal of ! the entire system. Even the dispensing of liquid into plates is now possible without the risk of individual Pipette! tips detaching from the cone. epT.I.P.S.® 384 with SOFTattach Technology Tips with elastic forming grooves adapt perfectly to the cones – for a Ever higher reliable tip fit and 40% throughput, ever Whereas previously, the less mounting effort. smaller sample utmost concentration was volumes in the daily required to avoid acciden- laboratory routine? tally filling the wrong well, More and more smooth and steady pipet- Spring-loaded tip cones in all Eppendorf multi- frequently, this trend ting is now possible, even channel pipettes up to 1,000 µL forces researchers under stressful conditions.” Optimal and reproducible to replace 96 well tip fit, indicated by haptic Customer opinion feedback, is achieved by plates with 384 well spring-loaded tip cones. Mounting forces are thus formats. Effortless pipetting in 384 well plates Ergonomics – workplace innovation minimized. A whole plate in just 1 It is our philosophy to continually improve the work- minute - 24 or 16 ing conditions of our customers. Our focus is always wells in a single step on the needs of scientists. To this end, we regularly challenge the status quo of our products. For example, the Eppendorf PhysioCare Concept® is reflected in the spring-loaded tip cones of our SOFTeject reduces manual pipettes – these ensure a secure, reproduc- ejection forces by 50% ible tip fit. Haptic feedback provides security, and When depressing the t is understandable if scientists prefer to avoid There is a solution – goodbye cumbersome stag- it renders repeated beating down on the tip box pipette button, the tips this replacement, as manual work involving the gered pipetting obsolete. Moreover, the PhysioCare Concept is rep- of an Eppendorf multi- I384-well format is no picnic, and automation is not Eppendorf has developed a novel system that is op- resented in the SOFTeject Technology, which en- channel pipette are always a feasible solution. Who is not familiar with timized to work perfectly in combination with 384 ables stepwise ejection of tips from multichannel automatically released the cumbersome “staggered pipetting” using 8 and well plates. The system comprises mechanical and pipettes, and which thus reduces the forces exerted in a staggered fashion. 12 channel pipettes? This common technique re- electronic pipettes with a choice of 16 or 24 channels, during the ejection of tips by 50 percent. In this way, the forces quires extreme concentration; it is time-consuming, as well as the innovative epT.I.P.S.® 384 pipette tips. With the new system of pipette tips for 384 well required for tip release and it carries a risk of error – particularly under In just one step, 16 or even 24 wells can be filled in formats, Eppendorf has significantly enhanced are reduced by half. stressful conditions. parallel – ideal for simultaneously starting or stop- this ergonomic concept. The forces required to

44 45 Guest Contribution Guest Contribution

thought that attending a top-ranked university in the West, and especially theI United States, would be a guaranteed ticket to success. I was also eager to help the world by studying the impact of pollu- tion on the global environment. As a child change. Even though leaving my program growing up in a remote village in India, I would bring trade-offs and uncertainty, it had seen some of these effects myself, such was better to find the right fit than to risk as how indoor air pollution from cooking a lifetime of career frustration and disap- leads to health problems and how changing pointment. weather patterns affect farmers’ crops. I My family’s dreams were shattered. Most hoped that the atmospheric science re- of my former colleagues and mentors start- search I planned to pursue could help im- ed ignoring me. My confidence was shaken prove the lives of my family and friends when I was out of a job for months and my back home and the many others in similar harum-scarum decision left me and my My Second situations. So, when I arrived in the United family struggling. Seeing my colleagues States in 2007 to start my PhD, I was ready and friends racing ahead in their careers to put my head down and get to work. while I was still unsure about what I want- But within my first semester, I began to ed also made me doubt my decision. have doubts. My research seemed unlikely Eventually, I got a job in governance with to lead to the real-world change that I India’s Planning Commission. It was com- sought, and my intellectual satisfaction pletely unrelated to my previous work, but with my work started fading. Strangely, my – as with my initial interest in atmospheric Chance newfound freedom to explore a range of research – I had a personal stake in the interests – very different from what I had topic. Growing up in India, I had experi- experienced as a student in India – fueled enced governance failures at many levels, my dissatisfaction. Besides pursuing my including education, health, and other es- doctoral training, I was excited to take sential services, and I was enthusiastic courses in a variety of disciplines, including about the opportunity to improve the situ- civil and environmental engineering and ation for others. After four years of working public policy. But I found that I was more for the commission, I realized that I am engaged in class discussions than with my more interested in solving development research colleagues, which made me ques- challenges through policy than through the tion where my research and career inter- “hard” scientific research that these poli- ests truly were. cies build on. I was faced with a choice. Should I con- With this new perspective, I decided that tinue pushing forward in an endeavor that I needed to go to the United States to pur- I was no longer sure was the right fit, or sue my doctorate – again. I’m now happily should I abandon my PhD to return to India a PhD student once more, and I’m confident and take some time to figure things out? that this time I’ve found the right fit. My family and friends discouraged me I could have saved precious time and from leaving. They thought I was risking resources if I had explored more before both my career and the livelihood of my embarking on my first doctoral program. family, whom I helped support with my Yet, that experience helped teach me how doctoral stipend. Nonetheless, about 2 I want to spend my career, so I don’t think years in, I concluded that I would never be of the time as wasted. It also taught me how satisfied with my work if I didn’t make a important it is to evaluate how I feel about INFOBOX i my work along the way and whether it is bringing me intellectual and personal sat- This article is reproduced with isfaction. Going forward, this mindset will the kind permission of the help me explore, take risks, and ultimately journal “Science®”, where this Shekhar Chandra is a PhD candidate in find work that is deeply rewarding. contribution was first published environmental policy and 2017 on December 22, 2017 in the Lawrence Susskind Fellow at the section “Working Life”. Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge.

46 47 Science Photo Trails of Life

“Photographer of the Year 2018” – Roberto Bueno is delighted with the title. With his image, he captured the motto of the competition “Patterns in Nature” perfectly.

About the winner and its master

“The forests of the North are beautiful in autumn, with the variety of colors of the trees. A little larvae is an autumnal surprise in the northern woods of Alaska and Yukon”, says Roberto Bueno who took this picture in Whitehorse, Yukon (Canada). “The feeding behavior of aspen leaf miner (Phyllocnistis populiella) larvae, on the leaves of aspen (Populus tremuloides), make interesting patterns, with intricate trails on every leaf. The floor of the yellow forest becomes a new world to enjoy nature. The lit- tle trails that these larvae make on the surface of the tree leaves are amongst the most surprising patterns I have seen in the natural world.”

Capturing Movement is the theme of this year’s Royal Society of Biology Photography Competition. Life on Earth is constantly changing, and photographers are invited to take a photo of nature in motion. Supported by Eppendorf, the competition has two age categories: 18 and over and under 18s. The contestants may submit up to three images by July 26, 2019!! www.rsb.org.uk/photocomp

48 49 Science Photo Leopard Gecko

It was the eyes of the gecko that fascinated Jack Olive – and he pressed the release. His photograph earned him the title “Young Photographer of the Year 2018”.

About the photograph and its young master

“The leopard gecko stared down the lens allowing me to take this picture“ says 17 years old Jack Olive who took the picture in Devon, United Kingdom. “I also wanted to show the yellow and black scale pattern as well as the beautiful eye.“ His image fits with the theme of the competition (“Patterns in Nature“) as the array of yellow and black scales contrast bril- liantly together and the eye shows magnificent pattern and detail.

50 51 For iPSCs, MSCs and ECM-dependent cells

Seed. Proceed. Reproduce. Ready-to-use and xeno-free CCCadvanced® FN1 motifs cultureware Cultivating iPSCs or MSCs? > For iPSCs, MSCs and ECM- Tired of self-coating with undefined dependent cells surfaces, lot-to-lot variation of coating > Ready-to-use and xeno-free media and tedious vessel preparation? > Defined coating with synthetic How about a ready-to-use, fully defined, fibronectin-derived motifs synthetic, and thus xeno-free surface > Advanced contamination protection for stable long-term expansion of your > Shelf life of 36 months at room

stem cells? temperature AA01001520/EN/21.7T/042019

www.eppendorf.com/ccc-advanced

Eppendorf®, the Eppendorf Brand Design and CCCadvanced® are registered trademarks of Eppendorf AG, Germany. All rights reserved, including graphics and images. Copyright © 2019 by Eppendorf AG.

CCC Off t. B._210 x 280_EN.indd 1 27.03.19 12:56