Rapid discrimination of Haemophilus influenzae, H. parainfluenzae, and H. haemolyticus by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and two matrix-assisted laser-desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) platforms.

Background: Due to considerable differences in pathogenicity, Haemophilus influenzae, H. parainfluenzae and H. haemolyticus have to be reliably discriminated in routine diagnostics.

Prospective controlled study of microbial colonization of the trachea in tracheotomized and laryngectomized patients with HME (heat and moisture exchanger).

Conclusion: The use of heat and moisture exchangers (HMEs) does not endanger tracheostomy patients in terms of additional exposure to pathogenic microorganisms.

Objective: Stoma filters in the form of HMEs cause a beneficial convection of respiratory air in tracheotomized and laryngectomized patients. We investigated whether or not this may lead to an altered microbial ecology in the non-physiologically colonized lower respiratory tract.

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) patches for covering anterior skull base defects - an animal study with minipigs.

Conclusion: We conclude that PHB patch material may fulfil the specific requirements that are necessary for a dural substitute, including defect closure, stability and biocompatibility. Our results support the assumed positive influence of PHB on bone regeneration.

Objectives: Although many experimental and clinical studies have been performed to identify a suitable material to repair defects of the dura mater, no ideal dural substitute is currently available.

Predictors of pneumonia in acute stroke patients admitted to a neurological intensive care unit.

Objective: To determine independent clinical predictors of stroke-associated pneumonia (SAP) that are available in all patients on day of hospital admission.

Methods: We studied 236 patients with acute ischemic stroke admitted to the neurological intensive care unit at our university hospital. Risk factors of SAP and of non-responsivity of early-onset pneumonia (EOP; onset within 72 hours after admission) to initial antibacterial treatment were analyzed.