Secondary analysis of potential associations between oral health and infection-related parameters in patients with severe heart failure-results of a German cohort.

Objectives: Aim of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate whether oral health parameters would be associated with infection-related parameters and overall survival of patients with severe heart failure (HF).

Methods: Patients with severe HF, heart transplantation (HTx) and left-ventricular assist device (LVAD), which underwent a full oral examination between 2017 and 2018 were included. Infection-related and survival data were assessed from the patient´s medical records.

Molecular detection of Babesia spp. in dogs in Germany (2007-2020) and identification of potential risk factors for infection.

Background: In Europe, canine babesiosis is most frequently caused by Babesia canis and Babesia vogeli, and occasionally by Babesia gibsoni.. In Germany, B.

Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 (FGF-23) in Dogs-Reference Interval and Correlation with Hematological and Biochemical Parameters.

Fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) is a phosphaturic hormone used to monitor chronic kidney disease (CKD) in humans. The aims of this study were (1) to determine the intra- and interassay precision of the FGF-23 concentrations in dogs as measured via the Kainos ELISA FGF-23 kit, (2) to calculate a reference interval, and (3) to assess the correlation of the FGF-23 concentration with the hematological and biochemical parameters. The coefficient of variation was below 15% for both the intra- and interassay precision, indicating good reproducibility.

Comparison of Three Different Diagnostic Assays for Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 (FGF-23) Measurements in Cats: A Pilot Study.

Fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) is a phosphaturic hormone used to monitor chronic kidney disease (CKD) in humans. The aim of this pilot study was to compare three diagnostic assays and to assess how the results correlate with parameters of renal dysfunction in cats. Four groups of 10 cats each were formed retrospectively according to creatinine, based on IRIS staging.

Randomized controlled trial of a smartphone-based cognitive behavioral therapy for chronic tinnitus.

Tinnitus, the phantom perception of sounds, generates distress and anxiety in those affected. Cognitive behavioral treatment approaches reproducibly help patients in managing chronic tinnitus. This study systematically evaluated the usefulness of a tinnitus app (with areas of attention and relaxation, mindfulness, acceptance, self-efficacy), which is prescribed for a total of nine months.

Learning curves and procedural times in Senhance®-robotic assisted fundoplication: results from 237 consecutive patients undergoing robotic fundoplication in a single center as part of the European TRUST Robotic Surgery Registry Study.

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease requiring an operative solution is common. Minimally invasive surgery to generate an anti-reflux barrier at the distal esophagus following the principle of the "floppy Nissen" technique has become the gold standard. Advanced robotic-assisted systems may deliver more consisted outcomes.

Comparison of Different Digital Color Measurement Methods on Maxillary Anterior and Canine Teeth: A Clinical Observational Study.

Purpose: This clinical observational study aimed to determine the reproducibility of digital color measurement methods of different front teeth.

Methods: Color determination was performed using two spectrophotometric systems (Easyshade Advance; ES and Shadepilot; SP) and digital photography using a camera with ring flash and gray card with subsequent evaluation using computer software (DP; Adobe Photoshop). In 50 patients, at two time points, a digital color determination was performed on maxillary central incisors (MCI) and maxillary canines (MC) by a calibrated examiner.

Fundamental Frequency Contour (Melody) of Infant Vocalizations across the First Year.

Introduction: The fundamental frequency contour (melody) of cry and non-cry utterances becomes more complex with age. However, there is a lack of longitudinal analyses of melody development during the first year of life.

Objective: The aim of the study was to longitudinally analyze melody development in typical vocalization types across the first 12 months of life.

Diagnostic cut-off values for the urinary corticoid:creatinine ratio for the diagnosis of canine Cushing's syndrome using an automated chemiluminescent assay.

Background: Cushing's syndrome is one of the most common endocrinopathies in dogs. The preferred screening test for spontaneous Cushing's syndrome is the low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDST). The diagnostic value of urinary cortisol:creatinine ratios (UCCR) is questionable.

Intake of Acetylsalicylic Acid and High Age Are Risk Factors for Iron Deficiency Anemia in Patients with Large Diaphragmatic Hernias.

Introduction: In 15% of patients with iron deficiency anemia, large diaphragmatic hernias are found as the cause of chronic iron loss. Conversely, iron deficiency anemia is present in 10-40% of diaphragmatic hernia patients. However, it is unclear why some patients with large diaphragmatic hernias develop anemia and others do not.

Salivary Diagnostic for Monitoring Strenuous Exercise-A Pilot Study in a Cohort of Male Ultramarathon Runners.

Intense physical stress, such as that in ultramarathon running, affects the immune system. For monitoring in sports medicine, non-invasive methods, e.g.

Aloe Vera-Containing Matrix in Transdermal Fentanyl Therapy Improves Adhesion, Skin Tolerance and Quality of Life: Results of a German Multicenter Study with a New Fentanyl Patch.

Background: Chronic pain represents a significant and costly healthcare problem especially in the older patient. Transdermal opioid therapy is easy to apply and ensures constant supply of active ingredients. However, skin irritation, poor adhesion and systemic side effects complicate transdermal pain therapy.

Factors Associated with Increased Analgesic Use in German Women with Endometriosis during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

(1) Background: Endometriosis is a frequent chronic pain condition in women of fertile age. Pain management with analgesics is frequently used by women with endometriosis. During the COVID-19 pandemic, access to health services was temporarily restricted in various countries for persons without serious conditions, resulting in increased physical and mental health issues.

Determinants of Pain-Induced Disability in German Women with Endometriosis during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

(1) Background: The main aim of this research was to examine the factors leading to pain-induced disability by assessing the impact of demographic, endometriosis-specific, pandemic-specific, and mental health factors. (2) Methods: Women with endometriosis who attended online support groups were invited to respond to an online survey during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. The Pain Disability Index (PDI) was employed to assess disability-related daily functioning.

Mental Health and Social Support Are Key Predictors of Resilience in German Women with Endometriosis during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Background: Endometriosis is a multifaceted chronic pain disorder that can have an impact on both physical and mental health. Women suffering from chronic pain may be more susceptible to various health disorders, especially during adversity, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Previous research has identified resilience as a mediator between internal or external stressors and well-being.

Clinical findings and self-reported oral health status of biathletes and cross-country skiers in the preseason - a cohort study with a control group.

This cross-sectional study aimed to compare clinical oral conditions as well as the self-reported oral health status of biathletes and cross-country skiers (A) to age- and gender-matched non-athletic controls (C). Thirty-one A and 68 C were examined in 2020 regarding caries experience (DMF-T), partially erupted wisdom teeth, non-carious tooth wear (erosion), dental plaque biofilm, gingival inflammation, periodontal screening (PSI), salivary active matrix-metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP-8) test and screening for temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Questionnaires recorded periodontal symptoms, TMD symptoms and oral health behaviour.

Predictors of Psychological Distress in Women with Endometriosis during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Background: Endometriosis is a multifaceted chronic pain condition that can have a negative impact on mental health. Patients suffering from chronic pain may face an additional psychological burden during adversity, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The main aim of this research was to evaluate the prevalence of self-reported depression and anxiety, the influence of demographic, endometriosis-specific, pandemic-specific factors, and resilience on mental health outcomes of patients with endometriosis.

No Association between Clinical Periodontal Conditions and Microbiological Findings on Driveline of Patients with Left-Ventricular Assist Devices (LVAD).

The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate whether there would be an association between periodontal disease parameters and positive bacterial findings at the driveline of patients with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Patients with an LVAD, who underwent a full oral and microbiological examination between 2016 and 2018, were included. During oral examination, periodontitis severity (stage and grade) and the periodontal inflamed surface area (PISA) were evaluated.

Pain experience and social support of endometriosis patients during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany - results of a web-based cross-sectional survey.

Background: Endometriosis is a chronic pain condition in premenopausal women. Pain is mainly characterized by pain intensity and may induce disability in all areas of daily life. Nevertheless, pain is influenced by emotional and social factors as well.

Arrest of root caries with an adjuvant chlorhexidine-fluoride varnish over a 12-months observation period: a QLF-analyzed, placebo-controlled, randomized, clinical trial (RCT).

This study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of an adjuvant chlorhexidine-fluoride varnish (Cervitec F) for prevention and arrest of root caries on elderly participants using quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF). 23 participants with two or three non-cavitated root carious lesions were included and assigned to three groups of different varnishes (CF: Cervitec F, P: placebo, DP: Duraphate). Agents were applied once to root surface at baseline and in follow-up after 3, 6 and 9 months.

Comparison of periodontal parameters between patients with ischemic and dilative cardiomyopathy.

Background: This cross-sectional study aimed in the comparison of periodontal parameters, number of remaining teeth and oral behaviour between patients with ischemic- (ICM) and non-ischemic dilative cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Methods: Patients with HF from the Department for Cardiac Surgery at the Heart Center Leipzig were included. The two groups (ICM and DCM) were composed by matching according to age, gender and smoking habits.

Oral health and oral health-related quality of life in patients with oral dystonia indicates their need for dental special care.

Background: This retrospective study aimed in the evaluation of oral health and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of patients with oral dystonia (OD).

Material And Methods: Seventeen patients with OD (Meige Syndrome: n=11, Oromandibular Dystonia: n=6) were included, of which seven were examined again at three months after botulinum toxin injection. OHRQoL was assessed by the German short form of oral health impact profile (OHIP G14).

Oral health-related quality of life in patients with heart failure and left ventricular assist devices-results of a cross-sectional study.

Objectives: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to compare oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of patients with left ventricular assist device (LVAD) and heart failure (HF).

Material And Methods: Seventy-four patients with LVAD were recruited from University Department for Cardiac Surgery, Leipzig Heart Center, Germany. A group of 72 patients with HF was composed by matching (age, gender, smoking).

Cardio-microcurrent device for chronic heart failure: first-in-human clinical study.

Aims: Most devices for treating ambulatory Class II and III heart failure are linked to electrical pulses. However, a steady electric potential gradient is also necessary for appropriate myocardial performance and may be disturbed by structural heart diseases. We investigated whether chronic application of electrical microcurrent to the heart is feasible and safe and improves cardiac performance.

Oral Health-Related Quality of Life, Oral Conditions, and Risk of Malnutrition in Older German People in Need of Care-A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: The present cross-sectional study assessed oral health, nutritional condition, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in older German people in need of care.

Methods: The participants were recruited from eight nursing homes (including three nursing homes with assisted living) and one mobile nursing service. Oral health, including dental status (decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMF-T), root caries), periodontal treatment needs, and prosthetic conditions, was recorded.