PurposePreclinical experiments on large animals are indispensable for evaluating the effectiveness of diabetes therapies. Miniature swine are well suited for such studies due to their physiological and pathophysiological responses.MethodsWe compare two methods for inducing diabetes in Goettingen minipigs (GMP), in five with the beta cell toxin streptozotocin (STZ) and in five other GMP by total pancreatectomy (PE). Glucose homeostasis was assessed with the intravenous glucose-tolerance test (IVGTT) and continual monitoring of interstitial glucose levels. At conclusion of the observation period, the pancreata were examined histologically. Three non-diabetic GMP served as control group.ResultsThe IVGTT revealed markedly diabetic profiles in both GMP groups. STZ-GMP were found to harbor residual C-peptides and scattered insulin-positive cells in the pancreas. PE-GMP survived the total pancreatectomy only with intensive postoperative care.ConclusionsAlthough both methods reliably induced diabetes in GMP, the PE-GMP clearly had more health problems and required a greater expenditure of time and resources. The PE-GMP model, however, was better at eliminating endogenous insulin and C-peptide than the STZ-GMP model.

SCT may be a viable option for selected patients with GT. However, SCT in GT carries its own significant risks, resulting from the development of anti-platelet antibodies. A critical risk-benefit analysis is mandatory prior to SCT.

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The Tunnel Albaufstieg consortium won the contract with an alternative proposal to drive a section about 2.8 km long of the 8.8 km long Boßler Tunnel with a tunnel boring machine (TBM). The next section, where squeezing conditions were forecast, was to be tunnelled by the shotcrete method according to the tender documents. Manifold and extensive additional investigations delivered the basis for the extension of the TBM drive along the entire length of the Boßler Tunnels. The driving of the section through the Aalenian 1 geology was problem free due to the low strengths and good cuttability of the rock mass combined with its impermeability. The next section in the intercalation of claystone and sandstone of the Aalenian 2 was much more differentiated but managable. The breakthrough of the east bore of the Boßler Tunnel confirms to the responsible people for the client and contractor that the decision to follow the aim of consistent mechanised tunnelling had been correct.