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Purpose The aim of this study was (1) to complete and update the oral-epidemiological data situation in Germany (descriptive epidemiology) and (2) to determine the need for orthodontic treatment provision based on the epidemiological data situation (health care epidemiology in the form of demand research). Methods For this purpose, a longitudinal oral-epidemiological study and social science survey with a primary focus on tooth and jaw misalignment was conducted at a nationally representative level on 705 8‑ and 9‑year-old children across Germany. Results The methodological principles of the oral-epidemiological study are described, with a focus on the calibration and reliability assessment results from the study dentists, sample weighting, a survey of nonrespondents to estimate the extent of the external validity of the study results, a description of the study participants, and realized cases, as well as information pertaining to the response rate and utilization. Conclusion Based on the conducted analyses, it can be assumed that the examined 8‑ and 9‑year-old study participants are representative of the statistical population in Germany.

Objectives The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) impairment in a national representative sample of 8 to 9 year olds in Germany and to evaluate the impact of orthodontic treatment need. Methods Data were collected in the Sixth German Oral Health Study (Sechste Deutsche Mundgesundheitsstudie, DMS 6) and subjects were sampled using a multistage sampling technique. OHRQoL was measured with a modified version of the 5‑item Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-5) which was administered in a computer-assisted personal interview. Children were also examined for malocclusion and orthodontic treatment need. Results In all, 1892 children aged 8–9 years were invited to take part. Finally, data of 705 children (48.6% female) could be included in the analysis. The OHIP‑5 mean was 1.3 (±2.0). There was no relevant influence from age and gender on the OHIP‑5 summary scores (r p = 0.020). Nevertheless, the level appears to be low. Conclusions Malocclusions with orthodontic treatment need have an influence on OHRQoL.

Purpose Current population-wide data on the prevalence of malocclusions in 8‑ and 9‑year-old children in Germany are not available. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to collect data on the prevalence of malocclusions in 8‑ and 9‑year-old children in Germany. The secondary objective of this study was to use this information to derive the need for orthodontic care provision. Methods This is an oral–epidemiological investigation and social science survey at the national level with a focus on tooth and jaw misalignment. The investigation took place between January and March 2021 at 16 study centers across Germany. All relevant data were available for the 705 study participants and were included in the statistical analysis. Results Overbite was the most common finding with 88.9%. Also widespread were crowding, with at least 60.9%, and lack of space, with a share of 30.9%. All other indication groups had a share below 10%. Rare ( Conclusion In general, the need for care provision identified in the orthodontic indication groups corresponds to that shown in previous studies. This suggests that the need for orthodontic treatment in Germany has remained stable over the years.

The present study expands the versatility of cationic poly(2-oxazoline) (POx) copolymers as a PEG-free platform for gene delivery to immune cells, such as monocytes and macrophages. Several block copolymers are developed by varying non-ionic hydrophilic blocks (poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) (pMeOx) or poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (pEtOx), cationic blocks, and an optional hydrophobic block (poly(2-isopropyl-2-oxazoline) (iPrOx). The cationic blocks are produced by side chain modification of 2-methoxy-carboxyethyl-2-oxazoline (MestOx) block precursor with diethylenetriamine (DET) or tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (TREN). For the attachment of a targeting ligand, mannose, we employed azide-alkyne cycloaddition click chemistry methods. Of the two cationic side chains, polyplexes made with DET-containing copolymers transfect macrophages significantly better than those made with TREN-based copolymer. Likewise, non-targeted pEtOx-based diblock copolymer is more active in cell transfection than pMeOx-based copolymer. The triblock copolymer with hydrophobic block iPrOx performs poorly compared to the diblock copolymer which lacks this additional block. Surprisingly, attachment of a mannose ligand to either of these copolymers is inhibitory for transfection. Despite similarities in size and design, mannosylated polyplexes result in lower cell internalization compared to non-mannosylated polyplexes. Thus, PEG-free, non-targeted DET- and pEtOx-based diblock copolymer outperforms other studied structures in the transfection of macrophages and displays transfection levels comparable to GeneJuice, a commercial non-lipid transfection reagent.

Currently, there is no comprehensive presentation of trends in oral diseases in the German general population over the last 20 years.How did prevalences of caries, periodontitis, and tooth loss and their determinants change in Germany between 1997 and 2014?We analysed data from 35- to 44-year-olds and 65- to 74-year-olds from the German Oral Health Studies ("Deutsche Mundgesundheitsstudien" [DMS]) III to V and of 25- to 74-year-olds from the Studies of Health in Pomerania (SHIP‑0 and SHIP-Trend-0). The decayed, missing, filled teeth index (DMFT), the number of sound teeth, the community periodontal index (CPI), and data on tooth count and edentulism were analysed.Regarding determinants, an increase in subjects with high school education, a slight decrease in smokers, and an increase in better oral hygiene patterns was observed in both studies. In 35- to 44-year-olds, the number of sound teeth increased from 11.9 in DMS III to 16.8 in DMS V, while in 65- to 74-year-olds the number of sound teeth increased by 5.9. A similar trend was observed in SHIP. In DMS, the prevalence of the highest CPI score of 4 decreased from 9.3% to 3.5% in 35- to 44-year-olds; in 65- to 74-year-olds, the 2014 prevalence was at the same level as in 1997 (10.5% and 9.8%). In parallel, the percentage of edentulous 65- to 74-year-olds halved in both studies. The number of teeth increased across all age strata.DMS and SHIP consistently showed an increase in the number of healthy teeth free of fillings, a slight reduction of subjects with a CPI score of 4, more tooth retention, and less edentulism. Because of more tooth retention and current demographic changes, higher periodontal treatment needs might be expected for the future.HINTERGRUND: Zur Veränderung der oralen Krankheitslast in der deutschen Allgemeinbevölkerung über die letzten 20 Jahre gibt es bisher keine umfassende Darstellung.Wie haben sich die Prävalenzen der Karies, der Parodontitis und des Zahnverlustes und deren Determinanten von 1997 bis 2014 in Deutschland verändert?Ausgewertet wurden Daten von 35- bis 44- und 65- bis 74-Jährigen der Deutschen Mundgesundheitsstudien (DMS) III, IV und V sowie von 25- bis 74-Jährigen der Studies of Health in Pomerania (SHIP‑0 und SHIP-Trend-0). Der Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth Index (DMFT), die Anzahl füllungsfreier Zähne, der Community Periodontal Index (CPI) als auch Daten zur Zahnzahl und Zahnlosigkeit wurden herangezogen.In beiden Studien waren bzgl. der Determinanten eine Zunahme der Probanden mit hoher Schulbildung, eine geringfügige Abnahme der Raucher sowie eine Verbesserung der Mundhygiene zu beobachten. Bei den 35- bis 44-Jährigen stieg die Anzahl gesunder Zähne von 11,9 in DMS III auf 16,8 in DMS V, während bei den Senioren die Anzahl gesunder Zähne um 5,9 anstieg. In SHIP wurde ein ähnlicher Trend beobachtet. Die Prävalenz des höchsten CPI-Grades 4 fiel in den DMS bei den 35- bis 44-Jährigen von 9,3 % auf 3,5 %; bei den Senioren lag der Wert 2014 wieder auf dem Niveau von 1997 (10,5 % und 9,8 %). Parallel dazu hat sich der Anteil der zahnlosen Senioren in beiden Studien halbiert. Die Zahnzahl nahm über alle Altersklassen hinweg zu.DMS und SHIP zeigten über die Jahre konsistent eine Zunahme gesunder, füllungsfreier Zähne, eine geringfügige Reduktion der Probanden mit CPI-Grad 4 sowie mehr Zahnerhalt und weniger Zahnlosigkeit. Bedingt durch den höheren Zahnerhalt und die Alterung der Gesellschaft ist in Zukunft mit einer erhöhten parodontalen Behandlungslast zu rechnen.

Mundgesundheitsziele fur Deutschland formulierte die Bundeszahnarztekammer (BZAK) zum ersten Mal im Jahr 1996. Die dritte Weiterentwicklung der Ziele fur das Jahr 2030 erfolgt nun auf Grundlage neuer oralepidemiologischer Studien. Die ehemals rein zahnbezogene Zentrierung der Zielformulierung wurde um sowohl krankheitsbezogene als auch mundgesundheitsforderliche und praventive Zielprojektionen im Sinne der einheitlichen Betrachtung von Primar‑, Sekundar- und Tertiarpravention erweitert. In diesem Beitrag wird eine Auswahl der aktualisierten Mundgesundheitsziele vorgestellt, die sich speziell auf die Reduktion von Karies bei Kindern und Parodontalerkrankungen bei Erwachsenen beziehen, aber auch auf die Verbesserung des Mundgesundheitsverhaltens der Bevolkerung und die Durchfuhrung gruppenprophylaktischer Masnahmen. Die aktuelle Situation wird bewertet und es werden Handlungsempfehlungen gegeben. Bis 2030 sollen die Milchgebisse von 3‑Jahrigen zu mindestens 90 % kariesfrei sein. Es wird ein dmft-Wert (Kariesindex des Milchgebisses) von maximal 0,4 angestrebt. Die bleibenden Gebisse von 12-Jahrigen sollen ebenfalls zu mindestens 90 % kariesfrei sein und der DMFT (Decayed Missing Filled Teeth, Kariesindex des bleibenden Gebisses) bei 0,5 gehalten werden. Bei 35- bis 44-Jahrigen sollen schwere Parodontalerkrankungen auf 10 % und bei 65- bis 74-Jahrigen auf 20 % gesenkt werden; die diesbezuglichen Zielvorgaben fur 2020 werden damit erneut aufgegriffen. Das Mundgesundheitsverhalten der Bevolkerung soll weiter verbessert und gruppenprophylaktische Masnahmen sollen ausgebaut werden. Die Grundlagen zur Erreichung der Mundgesundheitsziele 2030 sind das Engagement der relevanten Akteure des Gesundheitssystems und der Gesundheitspolitik sowie ein angemessener Ressourceneinsatz.

A facile and universal oxygen-tolerant, capillary microfluidic-derived, controlled radical polymerization for surface structuring (gradient and patterned polymer brushes) is reported. A syringe pump and a filter paper sheet are used as capillary microfluidic to supply the reaction solution (monomer, solvent, and ligand) to a sandwich-shaped setup by placing a flat copper plate onto an ATRP initiator-modified substrate and resulting in gradient polymer brush formation with controlled thickness, steepness, and grafting area, polymers are showing the high chain-end fidelity. Two different polymer brushes (binary polymer brushes) can be simultaneously grown from both ends of the initiator modified substrate by using this method, which can be used to study the interfacial properties of different polymer brushes.

Surface-initiated controlled radical polymerization mediated by Cu(0) plate (SI-Cu(0)plate-CRP) is an extremely effective and versatile technique for the synthesis of functional polymer brushes from vinyl monomers on planar substrates. The advantages of SI-Cu(0)plate-CRP in comparison to “classical” SI-CRP methods not only rely on the easy accessibility, handling, and recycling of the catalyst source, but also on the faster brush growth rates, and exceptionally high reinitiation efficiencies and grafting densities for the obtained brushes. The confined geometry of the SI-Cu(0)plate-CRP reaction setup, with a Cu(0) plate placed in close proximity to the initiator bearing substrate, considerably simplifies the preparation of polymer brushes over large areas, and the fabrication of gradient, patterned and arrayed polymer brushes. In this viewpoint we summarize the recent developments and applications of SI-Cu(0)plate-CRP, emphasizing its mechanism, advantages, and standing challenges.

Photoacid-induced siloxane cross-linking of stimuli-responsive copolymer micelles allows the synthesis of well-defined organic-inorganic hybrid nanoparticles. Two conceptually different synthetic approaches are presented, both via photoinduced cross-linking of poly(4-hydroxystyrene-block-styrene) micelles and via one-pot photoacid-catalyzed micelle formation and siloxane cross-linking of poly(4-tert-butoxystyrene-block-styrene). The multistep synthetic route showed intermicellar cross-linking leading to agglomerates. In contrast to this, the formation of the nanoparticles via the one-pot synthesis yielded well-defined structures. The use of different siloxane cross-linking agents and their effects on the properties of the cross-linked micellar structures have been evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry indicate rigid core cross-linked nanoparticles. Their size, molar mass, and swelling behavior were analyzed by dynamic and static light scattering. Cyclic siloxane cross-linking agents lead to residual Cî - C double bonds within the nanoparticle core that allow postsynthetic modification by, e.g., thiol-ene click reactions. © 2013 American Chemical Society.

Objectives To define an expert Delphi consensus on when to intervene in the caries process and existing carious lesions. Methods Non-systematic literature synthesis, expert Delphi consensus process and expert panel conference. Results Lesion activity, cavitation and cleansability determine intervention thresholds. Inactive lesions do not require treatment (in some cases, restorations may be placed for form, function, aesthetics); active lesions do. Non-cavitated carious lesions should be managed non- or micro-invasively, as should most cavitated lesions which are cleansable. Cavitated lesions which are not cleansable usually require minimally invasive management. In specific circumstances, mixed interventions may be applicable. Occlusally, cavitated lesions confined to enamel/non-cavitated lesions extending radiographically into deep dentine may be exceptions. Proximally, cavitation is hard to assess tactile-visually. Most lesions extending radiographically into the middle/inner third of dentine are assumed to be cavitated. Those restricted to the enamel are not cavitated. For lesions extending radiographically into the outer third of dentine, cavitation is unlikely. These lesions should be managed as if they were non-cavitated unless otherwise indicated. Individual decisions should consider factors modifying these thresholds. Conclusions Comprehensive diagnosis is the basis for systematic decision-making on when to intervene in the caries process and existing lesions.

The thermoresponsive behavior of a poly(2-oxazoline)-based molecular brush is investigated in aqueous solution. The molecular brush under study, PiPOx100-g-PEtOx17, has a poly(2-isopropenyl-2-oxazoline) (PiPOx) backbone grafted with thermoresponsive poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (PEtOx) side chains. Since the backbone degree of polymerization is only a factor of ~ 6 higher than the ones of the side chains, it features an architecture between a star-like polymer and a comb-like polymer. Its aqueous solution exhibits lower critical solution temperature (LCST) behavior with a cloud point temperature Tcp = 40.5 °C at 30 g L−1. The temperature-dependent structural evolution is disclosed using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and small-angle neutron scattering (SANS). An increase of the molecular brush size is found upon heating from room temperature to Tcp, which is attributed to the extension of the backbone resulting from the dehydration and collapse of the side chains. Above Tcp, the size decreases again, which indicates the collapse of the whole molecular brush. Large aggregates are found to be present in the solution in the temperature range 25–50 °C. These become more compact, as the temperature is increased across Tcp.

Objective This is the second part of a report on tooth loss in Germany 1997–2030. Here, we describe trends in the prevalence of edentulism in seniors 1997–2014, assess predictive factors for edentulism, and projected it into 2030. Material and methods We used data from three waves of the cross-sectional, multi-center, nationwide representative German Oral Health Studies. Overall, 3449 seniors (65–74 years) were included (1997: 1367; 2005: 1040; 2016: 1042). Age, sex, educational level, smoking status, and the cohort were entered into age-cohort binary-logistic regression models to assess the association of predictors with edentulism and to project edentulism in 2030 via Monte Carlo simulations. Results Between 1997 and 2014, the prevalence of edentulism decreased from 24.8 to 12.4%. With each year of age, the risk of being edentate increased (by 11%, p p = 0.001), low versus medium and high educational level (up to 257%, p p Conclusions Edentulism in seniors has declined equitably in Germany. The decline is expected to continue until 2030. Further efforts are needed to tackle the underlying risk factors. Clinical relevance This study presents trends of edentulism in Germany for a period of three decades. It provides clinically relevant data for health care planning by 2030.

The structures of a molecular brush in a good solvent are investigated using synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering in a wide range of concentrations. The brush under study, P

Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-glycosaminoglycan (GAG) hydrogel networks are established as very versatile biomaterials. Herein, the synthetic gel component of the biohybrid materials is systematically varied by combining different poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazolines) (POx) with heparin applying a Michael-type addition crosslinking scheme: POx of gradated hydrophilicity and temperature-responsiveness provides polymer networks of distinctly different stiffness and swelling. Adjusting the mechanical properties and the GAG concentration of the gels to similar values allows for modulating the release of GAG-binding growth factors (VEGF165 and PDGF-BB) by the choice of the POx and its temperature-dependent conformation. Adsorption of fibronectin, growth of fibroblasts, and bacterial adhesion scale with the hydrophobicity of the gel-incorporated POx. In vitro hemocompatibility tests with freshly drawn human whole blood show advantages of POx-based gels compared to the PEG-based reference materials. Biohybrid POx hydrogels can therefore enable biomedical technologies requiring GAG-based materials with customized and switchable physicochemical characteristics.

Graphitic carbon nitride (gCN) has a broad range of promising applications, from energy harvesting and storage to sensing. However, most of the applications are still restricted due to gCN poor dispersibility and limited functional groups. Herein, a direct photografting of gCN using various polymer brushes with tailorable functionalities via UV photopolymerization at ambient conditions is demonstrated. The systematic study of polymer brush-functionalized gCN reveals that the polymerization did not alter the inherent structure of gCN. Compared to the pristine gCN, the gCN-polymer composites show good dispersibility in various solvents such as water, ethanol, and tetrahydrofuran (THF). Patterned polymer brushes on gCN can be realized by employing photomask and microcontact printing technology. The polymer brushes with incorporated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on gCN can act as a multifunctional recyclable active sensing layer for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) detection and photocatalysis. This multifunctionality is shown in consecutive cycles of SERS and photocatalytic degradation processes that can be applied to in situ monitor pollutants, such as dyes or pharmaceutical waste, with high chemical sensitivity as well as to water remediation. This dual functionality provides a significant advantage to our AgNPs/polymer-gCN with regard to state-of-the-art systems reported so far that only allow SERS pollutant detection but not their decomposition. These results may provide a new methodology for the covalent functionalization of gCN and may enable new applications in the field of catalysis, biosensors, and, most interestingly, environmental remediation.

A method is presented allowing the preparation of polymer brushes from numerous monomers and on a variety of substrates. Poly(dopamine) (PDA) is used to cover a series of different surfaces (SiO2, Au, Cu, Al/Al2O3, Teflon) and for the subsequent preparation of bromine containing initiator layers by conversion with 2-bromoisobutyryl bromide (BiBB). Surface-initiated Cu(0)-mediated controlled radical polymerization (SI-CuCRP) enables a rapid polymerization of methacrylates and styrene on the PDA/BiBB layers with minimal effort. When the substrates are faced with a copper plate and submerged into reaction solution containing monomer, solvent and ligand, thick polymer brushes up to hundreds of nanometers can be achieved within 1 h. Despite the simplicity of the method and the fast polymerization rates at room temperature, an outstanding endgroup fidelity, which is unmatched for surface polymerization, can be observed. This fact is demonstrated by the preparation of pentablock copolymer brushes representing the highest block number ever reported for surface-bound polymer.

Surface-initiated Cu(0)-mediated controlled radical polymerization (SI-CuCRP) has been proved to be a powerful method for the fabrication of polymer brushes with various architectures. A key factor in the SI-CuCRP process is the copper disproportionation/comproportionation equilibrium, yet little is known about how the equilibrium works in controlling polymer brush growth, especially under external additives. In this work, the regulation of such equilibrium in SI-CuCRP via external additives is reported in more detail. We find that the polymer brush growth rate can be enhanced via decreasing the ligand concentration or adding NaBr, while it can be reduced by adding ascorbic acid. In addition, the concentration of CuBr2 regulates the ratio of [CuI]/[CuII] to tune the polymer growth kinetics and grafting density over a wide range, which is independent of the distance between the copper plate and initiator-modified substrate. Besides, ultrafast polymerization (surface-initiated hydrogel formation) can be achieved when the ratio of [CuBr2] : [ligand] reaches 1 : 2. This work gives a deeper insight into the SI-CuCRP process and facilitates the fabrication of polymer brushes on demand.

Concurrent delivery of multiple drugs using nanoformulations can improve outcomes of cancer treatments. Here we demonstrate that this approach can be used to improve the paclitaxel (PTX) and alkylated cisplatin prodrug combination therapy of ovarian and breast cancer. The drugs are co-loaded in the polymeric micelle system based on amphiphilic block copolymer poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline- block-2-butyl-2-oxazoline-block-2-methyl-2-oxazoline) (P(MeOx-b-BuOx-b -MeOx). A broad range of drug mixing ratios and exceptionally high two-drug loading of over 50 wt.% drug in a stable micellar solution is demonstrated. The drugs co-loading in the micelles result in a slowed-down release to serum, improved pharmacokinetics and increased tumor distribution for both drugs. A superior anti-tumor activity of co-loaded PTX/CP drug micelles compared to single drug micelles or their mixture was demonstrated in cisplatin-resistant human ovarian carcinoma A2780/CisR xenograft tumor and multidrug resistant breast cancer LCC-6-MDR orthotopic tumor models. The improved tumor delivery of co-loaded drugs was related to decreased drug release rates as confirmed by simulation for micelle, serum and tumor compartments in a three-compartmental model. Overall, the results provide support for the use of PTX and cisplatin co-loaded micelles as a strategy for improved chemotherapy of ovarian and breast cancer and potential for the clinical translation.

We report herein a facile and generalized approach to the modification of solid surfaces with polymer brushes under ambient conditions: filter paper‐assisted surface‐initiated Cu0‐mediated controlled radical polymerization (PSI‐CuCRP). The polymerization solution wetted filter paper is sandwiched between a copper plate and an initiator‐modified substrate, which allows the creation of a surface‐initiated polymerization (SIP) “band‐aid” so that everyone can perform the surface grafting selectively with good control over the quality of the polymer brushes employing low concentration and microliter amounts of the monomer solution. The versatility of this method is demonstrated by grafting different homo‐, block‐, and multicomponent polymer brushes by using the same activation system and reaction conditions, the polymerization process can be precisely controlled to yield uniform polymers and show high chain‐end functionality which is exemplified by in situ tetra‐copolymerization. The combination of photolithography and paper cutting enables to prepare arbitrary three‐dimensional patterned polymer brushes on the surface., A facile and generalized approach is reported for the modification of solid surfaces with polymer brushes under ambient conditions: filter paper‐assisted surface‐initiated Cu0‐mediated controlled radical polymerization. A surface‐initiated “band‐aid” of the monomer solution wetted filter paper covered with a thin copper plate allows to perform the surface grafting selectively with polymer brushes.

In 1996, the German Dental Association (BZÄK) defined oral health goals for the dental profession in Germany for the first time. The third revision of the goals for the year 2030 is now based on new oral epidemiological studies. The formerly tooth-oriented focus of the objectives has been expanded to include both disease-related as well as oral health-promoting and preventive objective areas in the sense of an integrative perspective of primary, secondary and tertiary prevention. This paper presents a sample of the updated oral health goals specifically related to the reduction of caries in children and periodontal disease in adults, but also to the improvement of oral health behaviour of the population and the implementation of group prophylactic measures. The current situation is assessed and recommendations for action are made.By 2030, the primary dentition of 3‑year-olds should be at least 90% caries-free. A dmft-value (caries index of the primary dentition) of maximum 0.4 is being targeted. The permanent teeth of 12-year-olds should also be at least 90% caries-free, and the DMFT (caries index of the permanent teeth) should be kept at 0.5. Severe periodontal diseases are to be reduced to 10% in 35-44-year-olds and to 20% in 65-74-year-olds; the 2020 goals in this regard are thus adressed once again. The oral health behaviour of the population should be further improved and group prophylactic measures strengthened.The basis for achieving the 2030 oral health goals is the commitment of the relevant actors in the health system and health policy as well as an appropriate use of resources.Mundgesundheitsziele für Deutschland formulierte die Bundeszahnärztekammer (BZÄK) zum ersten Mal im Jahr 1996. Die dritte Weiterentwicklung der Ziele für das Jahr 2030 erfolgt nun auf Grundlage neuer oralepidemiologischer Studien. Die ehemals rein zahnbezogene Zentrierung der Zielformulierung wurde um sowohl krankheitsbezogene als auch mundgesundheitsförderliche und präventive Zielprojektionen im Sinne der einheitlichen Betrachtung von Primär‑, Sekundär- und Tertiärprävention erweitert. In diesem Beitrag wird eine Auswahl der aktualisierten Mundgesundheitsziele vorgestellt, die sich speziell auf die Reduktion von Karies bei Kindern und Parodontalerkrankungen bei Erwachsenen beziehen, aber auch auf die Verbesserung des Mundgesundheitsverhaltens der Bevölkerung und die Durchführung gruppenprophylaktischer Maßnahmen. Die aktuelle Situation wird bewertet und es werden Handlungsempfehlungen gegeben.Bis 2030 sollen die Milchgebisse von 3‑Jährigen zu mindestens 90 % kariesfrei sein. Es wird ein dmft-Wert (Kariesindex des Milchgebisses) von maximal 0,4 angestrebt. Die bleibenden Gebisse von 12-Jährigen sollen ebenfalls zu mindestens 90 % kariesfrei sein und der DMFT (Decayed Missing Filled Teeth, Kariesindex des bleibenden Gebisses) bei 0,5 gehalten werden. Bei 35- bis 44-Jährigen sollen schwere Parodontalerkrankungen auf 10 % und bei 65- bis 74-Jährigen auf 20 % gesenkt werden; die diesbezüglichen Zielvorgaben für 2020 werden damit erneut aufgegriffen. Das Mundgesundheitsverhalten der Bevölkerung soll weiter verbessert und gruppenprophylaktische Maßnahmen sollen ausgebaut werden.Die Grundlagen zur Erreichung der Mundgesundheitsziele 2030 sind das Engagement der relevanten Akteure des Gesundheitssystems und der Gesundheitspolitik sowie ein angemessener Ressourceneinsatz.

We investigate the influence of the average molar mass (Mw) of the capping agent poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) on the conductivity of a silver nanowire (AgNW) network. During the polyol process, the chain length of PVP is known to influence the AgNW diameters and lengths. By altering the reaction temperature and time and using PVP of different chain lengths, we synthesized AgNWs with varying diameters, lengths and PVP coverage. The obtained plethora of AgNWs is the basis for conductivity investigations of networks made of AgNWs with a diameter of either 60 nm or 80 nm. The results show a negative influence of long-chain PVP on the conductivity of the subsequent network if 60 nm thick AgNWs are employed. Overall, we obtain well performing AgNW transparent electrodes on glass with RS = 24.4 Ω sq-1 at 85.5%T550nm.

The detection of thiocyanate (SCN–) is particularly important in industrial effluents and biological fluids because of the toxic nature of SCN–. Herein, a metal–insulator–metal (MIM) resonator for ...

We present the "on water" surface-initiated Cu-mediated controlled radical polymerization ("on water" SI-CuCRP) that converts hydrophobic monomers in aqueous reaction medium to polymer brushes at unparalleled speed and efficiency. The method allows the facile conversion of a variety of common monomers under most simple reaction conditions and with minimal monomer amounts to thick and homogeneous polymer brushes. The highly living character of the "on water" SI-CuCRP allowed the preparation of decablock (homo)polymer brushes and opens the pathway to sequentially controlled polymer brushes on solids.

The influence of cholesterol (CHOL) level on integrin sequestration in raft-mimicking lipid mixtures forming coexisting liquid-ordered (lo) and liquid-disordered (ld) lipid domains is investigated using complementary, single-molecule-sensitive, confocal detection methods. Systematic analysis of membrane protein distribution in such a model membrane environment demonstrates that variation of CHOL level has a profound influence on lo-ld sequestration of integrins, thereby exhibiting overall ld preference in the absence of ligands and lo affinity upon vitronectin addition. Accompanying photon-counting histogram analysis of integrins in the different model membrane mixtures shows that the observed changes of integrin sequestration in response to variations of membrane CHOL level are not associated with altering integrin oligomerization states. Instead, our experiments suggest that the strong CHOL dependence of integrin sequestration can be attributed to CHOL-mediated changes of lipid packing and bilayer thickness in coexisting lo and ld domains, highlighting the significance of a biophysical mechanism of CHOL-mediated regulation of integrin sequestration. We envision that this model membrane study may help clarify the influence of CHOL in integrin functionality in plasma membranes, thus providing further insight into the role of lipid heterogeneities in membrane protein distribution and function in a cellular membrane environment.

The covalent attachment of one dimensional (1D) polymer brush onto a two-dimensional (2D) material presents an appealing strategy to fabricate anisotropic polymer membranes, namely “polymer carpets”. Conductive polymer carpets that are based on graphene and conductive polymers are especially interesting due to their potential in microelectronics, actuators and optoelectronics. Here we describe a versatile method for the covalent grafting of the poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) brush onto large area graphene to fabricate conductive polymer carpets through a combination of photografting polymerization and Kumada catalyst transfer polycondensation (KCTP) to grow P3HT (up to 260 nm) on single layer graphene forming conductive polymer carpets (i.e. G-PS-P3HT). Raman mapping revealed that the grafting reactions occurred on native graphene defects, without deteriorating the conjugation plane of graphene. The advanced architecture of G-PS-P3HT resulted in a high photocurrent (ca. 0.3 mA cm−2) under light irradiation in a junction with MoS2 to form efficient an p–n heterostructure, with promising potential in optoelectronics.

Protocols for anionic polymerization of vinylferrocenes in bulk ( b ) and solution ( s ) are reported. Polymerization of vinylferrocenes bearing one or multiple (2–4) vinyl groups yielded linear polyvinylferrocene PVF-1 ( b, s ) or cross-linked polyvinylferrocenes PVF-2 – PVF-4 ( b, s ), respectively. Furthermore, copolymerization of mono-with multifunctional vinylferrocenes produced cross-linked copolymers PVF-5 – PVF-7 ( b, s ). For anionic polymerization in bulk, a high monomer conversion and a relatively high dispersity was observed. A reversible redox behavior of the ferrocenyl group with cycle stability up to 100 cycles was found for PVF- ( 1s – 7s ). Li-ion battery cell tests demonstrated the applicability of the polyvinylferrocenes PVF-1b and PVF- ( 5b – 7b ) as electrode materials.

Incorporation of bioactive components like glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) into tissue engineering scaffolds, is a promising approach towards developing new generation functional biomaterial. Here, we have designed electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds made of gelatin and different concentrations of chemically sulfated or non-sulfated hyaluronan (sHA or HA) and chondroitin sulfate (CS). Evenly distributed fiber morphology was observed with no differences between varying concentrations and types of GAGs. In vitro release kinetics revealed that GAGs release is driven by diffusion. The effects of these scaffolds were analyzed on human keratinocyte (HaCaT), fibroblast (Hs27) and mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) adhesion and proliferation. A significant increase in cell number (~ 5 fold) was observed when cultivating all three cell types alone on scaffolds containing sHA and CS. These findings suggest that sulfated GAG-containing electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds might be beneficial for the development of effective skin tissue engineered constructs by stimulating cellular performance and therefore accelerate epidermal-dermal regeneration processes.

Surface-initiated Cu(0)-mediated controlled radical polymerization (Si-CuCRP) can be successfully applied to fabricate poly[(oligoethylene glycol)methyl ether methacrylate] (POEGMA) brushes in one pot, presenting a grafting-density gradient across the surface. This is achieved by continuously varying the distance (d) between a copper plate, used as a source of Cu species, and the initiator-functionalized substrate. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis of monolayers of CuI-selective ligands demonstrates that a higher concentration of activator species diffuses to the initiating substrate in areas closer to the copper plate, a progressive decrease in activator concentration being observed upon increasing the distance between the two surfaces. As confirmed by the SI-CuCRP kinetics measured at different positions along the gradient, radical-termination reactions between propagating chains limit the grafting density of POEGMA grafts where the diffusion of activators is favored (i.e., at d → 0). This...

Poly(2‐oxazoline)s (POx) bottle‐brush brushes have excellent biocompatible and lubricious properties, which are promising for the functionalization of surfaces for biomedical devices. Herein, a facile synthesis of POx is reported which is based bottle‐brush brushes (BBBs) on solid substrates. Initially, backbone brushes of poly(2‐isopropenyl‐2‐oxazoline) (PIPOx) were fabricated via surface initiated Cu0 plate‐mediated controlled radical polymerization (SI‐Cu0CRP). Poly(2‐methyl‐2‐oxazoline) (PMeOx) side chains were subsequently grafted from the PIPOx backbone via living cationic ring opening polymerization (LCROP), which result in ≈100 % increase in brush thickness (from 58 to 110 nm). The resultant BBBs shows tunable thickness up to 300 nm and high grafting density (σ) with 0.42 chains nm−2. The synthetic procedure of POx BBBs can be further simplified by using SI‐Cu0CRP with POx molecular brush as macromonomer (M n=536 g mol−1, PDI=1.10), which results in BBBs surface up to 60 nm with well‐defined molecular structure. Both procedures are significantly superior to the state‐of‐art approaches for the synthesis of POx BBBs, which are promising to design bio‐functional surfaces., The facile fabrication of POx BBBs with high layer thickness (up to ≈300 nm) and grafting density (σ=0.42 chains nm−2) via surface‐initiated Cu‐mediated controlled radical polymerization (SI‐Cu0CRP) is presented. The patterned and gradient POx BBB surfaces were fabricated in a straightforward manner. The dual functionalities of POx BBBs were demonstrated by fluorescent labelling.

The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) is a measure of intra-subject clustering effects. A priori estimates of the ICC and the associated design effect (DE) are required for sample size estimation in clustered studies, and should be considered during their analysis, too. We aimed to determine the clustering effects of carious lesions, apical lesions, periodontal bone loss, and periodontal pocketing, assessed in clinical or radiographic examinations. A subsample of patients (n = 175) enrolled in the fifth German Oral Health Study provided data on clinically determined carious teeth (i.e., with untreated carious lesions, WHO method) as well as teeth with periodontal pocketing (i.e., with maximum probing-pocket-depths ≥ 4 mm). A sample of panoramic radiographs (n = 85) from randomly chosen patients, examined from 2010 to 2017 at the Charite dental hospital, provided data on radiographically determined carious teeth (i.e., with lesions extending into dentine or enamel), teeth with apical lesions (determined by dentists via majority vote), and teeth with periodontal bone loss (≥ 20% of root-length). The ICC and its 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were determined. There were 3839 and 1961 teeth assessed in clinical and radiographic evaluations, respectively. For clinically or radiographically determined carious lesions, the ICC (95% CI) was 0.20 (0.16–0.24) or 0.19 (0.14–0.25), respectively. For clinical pocketing or radiographic bone loss, the ICC was 0.40 (0.35–0.46) or 0.30 (0.24–0.38), respectively. The lowest ICC was found for apical lesions at 0.08 (0.06–0.13). The ICC varied between assessment methods and conditions. Clustered trials should account for this during study planning and data analysis. Within the limitations of this study, and considering the risk of selection bias and the limited sample sizes of both datasets, clustering effects were substantial but varied between dental conditions. Studies not accounting for this during planning and analysis may yield misleading estimates if clustering is present.

The aims of this study were to assess the trends in dental caries experience in the permanent dentition (i.e., the number of decayed, missing, or filled teeth, DMFT) in Germany from 1997–2014 and to project caries experience to 2030. Components of caries experience (decayed teeth, DT, missing teeth, MT, filled teeth, FT) from repeated waves (1997, 2005, 2014) of the nationally representative German Oral Health Studies were analyzed in 12-, 35–44-, and 65–74-year-olds. Weighted means were interpolated cross-sectionally by fitting piecewise-cubic spline-curves and were then subjected to longitudinal regression and combined with population estimates. In 1997, children (12-year-olds) had a mean caries experience (decayed, missing, filled teeth, DMFT) of 1.7 teeth; this experience decreased to 0.5 teeth in 2014. For 2030, an experience of 0.2 teeth is projected. In adults (35–44-year-olds), a decrease was recorded (1997: 16.1 teeth; 2014: 11.2 teeth). This decrease is expected to continue until 2030 (to 7.7 teeth). Similarly, in seniors (65–74-year-olds), a decrease was recorded (1997: 23.6 teeth; 2014: 17.7 teeth); this decrease is expected to continue until 2030 (to 14.9 teeth). While the number of missing teeth has decreased consistently across age groups, the number of filled and decayed teeth has increased in seniors and is expected to continue to increase. The cumulative caries experience has decreased from 1.1 billion DMFT in 2000 to 867 million in 2015 and is expected to decrease to 740 million in 2030. Caries experience in the permanent dentition has been decreasing substantially, mainly due to a decrease in missing teeth. Younger age groups also show fewer decayed and filled teeth, while in older groups, restorative needs have not decreased, as more teeth are retained. Concepts for addressing the emanating morbidity shifts are required.

Mussel-inspired two-dimensional freestanding, alkyl-polydopamine (alkyl-PDA) Janus nanosheets, with a well-controlled nanometer thickness and a lateral size of up to micrometers, have been developed. A self-assembled octadecylamine (ODA) bilayer is used as the reactive template for the dopamine polymerization, resulting in the formation of well-defined nanosheets. The alkyl-PDA nanosheets show an amphiphilic nature with hydrophilic PDA and hydrophobic alkyl chains on opposing sides. The nanosheets can be used to functionalize many substrates and is dependent on the configuration of surface of the nanosheets. The nanosheets are quite stable, as the morphology is preserved after carbonization at 900 °C. Post-modification of the nanosheets can be easily achieved because of the reactive nature of PDA. This work will provide a new strategic approach for fabricating polymeric Janus nanosheets, which can find applications for surface modifications, catalyst supports, and guided self-assembly.

Here we report a novel poly(2-oxazoline)-based block copolymer with the aromatic heterocyclic side chains in one block, poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline)-b-poly(2-N,N-dimethyl-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine-6-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (PMeOx-PcBOx), and demonstrate its potential application as a drug delivery platform. The copolymer was synthesized via the condensation of N,N-dimethylbiguanide with the methyl ester side chain in poly(2-methoxycarboxyethyl-2-oxazoline) block (PMestOx) of the PMeOx-PMestOx diblock copolymer. We confirmed the N,N-dimethylbiguanide condensation with PMestOx and the complete conversion of the side chain to the N,N-dimethyl-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine-6-ethyl moiety by NMR spectroscopy, MALDI-TOF mass spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and titration analysis. The PMeOx-PcBOx copolymer self-assemble into polymeric micelles in aqueous solution. Successful encapsulation into these micelles has been demonstrated for 1) several poorly soluble drugs, such as bruceantin and LY2109761, and 2) dichloro(1,2-diaminocyclohexane)platinum(II) (DachPt). The first class of drugs is incorporated possibly via hydrogen bonding and pi-pi interactions with the PcBOx side groups, while the second one is likely forms coordination bonds with the same side groups. The capability of this new copolymer to solubilize a uniquely diverse set of active pharmaceutical ingredients suggests potential applications in drug delivery.

A series of fully conjugated oligo(3-hexylthiophene)s bearing different starting- and end-groups have been synthesized by means of externally initiated Kumada catalyst-transfer polymerization (KCTP) and Grignard Metathesis Polymerization (GRIM). These kinds of oligomers’ starting- and end-groups include tert-butyl protected thiols to be used for binding of oligomers to gold electrodes and tetracyanobutadiene-based donor–acceptor (DA) end-groups, such as dimethylaniline-tetracyanobutadiene (DMA-TCBD) and ferrocene-tetracyanobutadiene (Fc-TCBD), introduced to control the charge transport through the oligomers. The DMA-TCBD and Fc-TCBD end groups were incorporated by means of a Diederich-type click transformation of appropriately end-terminated oligo(3-hexylthiophene)s. The efficiency of the end-group functionalization was comprehensively assessed by NMR spectroscopy and MALDI-TOF spectrometry whereas the redox activities of the DA end-groups were examined by cyclic voltammetry. KCTP showed a much superior performance compared to GRIM in the introduction of a desirable end-group functionality. The thus-prepared conjugated oligomers are attractive materials for application in molecular electronics which will be explored in future studies.

The poor solubility of paclitaxel (PTX), the commercially most successful anticancer drug, has long been hampering the development of suitable formulations. Here, we present translational evaluation of a nanoformulation of PTX, which is characterized by a facile preparation, extraordinary high drug loading of 50 % wt. and PTX solubility of up to 45 g/L, excellent shelf stability and controllable, sub-100 nm size. We observe favorable in vitro and in vivo safety profiles and a higher maximum tolerated dose compared to clinically approved formulations. Pharmacokinetic analysis reveals that the higher dose administered leads to a higher exposure of the tumor to PTX. As a result, we observed improved therapeutic outcome in orthotopic tumor models including particularly faithful and aggressive “T11” mouse claudin-low breast cancer orthotopic, syngeneic transplants. The promising preclinical data on the presented PTX nanoformulation showcase the need to investigate new excipients and is a robust basis to translate into clinical trials.

Direct synthesis of poly (sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (P(NaSS)) inside the channel of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) field-effect transistors (FETs), is shown to be highly beneficial in improving the device parameters. Starting with monomeric compounds, the FET-channel was in-situ polymerized, using the self-initiated photografting and photopolymerization process. Upon formation of the P(NaSS) polymer matrix, we report improved device-to-device consistency, lower variability in the threshold voltage, higher drain currents and higher on/off ratios. Annealing in vacuum was shown to further improve the device performance and induce an ambipolar behavior. Moreover, those FET devices showed a long-term stability even under ambient environment.

We present the synthesis of hydrogel microbeads based on telechelic poly(2-oxazoline) (POx) crosslinkers and the methacrylate monomers (HEMA, METAC, SPMA) by inverse emulsion polymerization. While in batch experiments only irregular and ill-defined beads were obtained, the preparation in a microfluidic (MF) device resulted in highly defined hydrogel microbeads. Variation of the MF parameters allowed to control the microbead diameter from 50 to 500 μm. Microbead elasticity could be tuned from 2 to 20 kPa by the POx:monomer composition, the POx chain length, net charge of the hydrogel introduced via the monomer as well as by the organic content of the aqueous phase. The proliferations of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) on the microbeads were studied. While neutral, hydrophilic POx-PHEMA beads were bioinert, excessive colonization of hMSCs on charged POx-PMETAC and POx-PSPMA was observed. The number of proliferated cells scaled roughly linear with the METAC or SPMA comonomer content. Additional collagen I coating further improved the stem cell proliferation. Finally, a first POx-based system for the preparation of biodegradable hydrogel microcarriers is described and evaluated for stem cell culturing.

Objectives: To define an expert Delphi consensus on when to intervene in the caries process and on existing carious lesions using non- or micro-invasive, invasive/restorative or mixed interventions. Methods: Non-systematic literature synthesis, expert Delphi consensus process and expert panel conference. Results: Carious lesion activity, cavitation and cleansability determine intervention thresholds. Inactive lesions do not require treatment (in some cases, restorations will be placed for reasons of form, function and aesthetics); active lesions do. Non-cavitated carious lesions should be managed non- or micro-invasively, as should most cavitated carious lesions which are cleansable. Cavitated lesions which are not cleansable usually require invasive/restorative management, to restore form, function and aesthetics. In specific circumstances, mixed interventions may be applicable. On occlusal surfaces, cavitated lesions confined to enamel and non-cavitated lesions radiographically extending deep into dentine (middle or inner dentine third, D2/3) may be exceptions to that rule. On proximal surfaces, cavitation is hard to assess visually or by using tactile methods. Hence, radiographic lesion depth is used to determine the likelihood of cavitation. Most lesions radiographically extending into the middle or inner third of the dentine (D2/3) can be assumed to be cavitated, while those restricted to the enamel (E1/2) are not cavitated. For lesions radiographically extending into the outer third of the dentine (D1), cavitation is unlikely, and these lesions should be managed as if they were non-cavitated unless otherwise indicated. Individual decisions should consider factors modifying these thresholds. Conclusions: Comprehensive diagnostics are the basis for systematic decision-making on when to intervene in the caries process and on existing carious lesions. Clinical relevance: Carious lesion activity, cavitation and cleansability determine intervention thresholds. Invasive treatments should be applied restrictively and with these factors in mind.

Direct covalent functionalization of large-area single-layer hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) with various polymer brushes under mild conditions is presented. The photopolymerization of vinyl monomers results in the formation of thick and homogeneous (micropatterned, gradient) polymer brushes covalently bound to hBN. The brush layer mechanically and chemically stabilizes the material and allows facile handling as well as long-term use in water splitting hydrogen evolution reactions.