Automated Insulin Delivery for Young People with Type 1 Diabetes and Elevated A1c.

BACKGROUND: Automated insulin delivery is the treatment of choice in adults with type 1 diabetes. Data are needed on the efficacy and safety of automated insulin delivery for children and youth with diabetes and elevated glycated hemoglobin levels. METHODS: In this multicenter, open-label randomized controlled trial, we assigned patients with type 1 diabetes in a 1:1 ratio either to use an automated insulin delivery system (MiniMed 780G) or to receive usual diabetes care of multiple daily injections or non--automated pump therapy (control). The patients were children and youth (defined as 7 to 25 years of age) with elevated glycemia (glycated hemoglobin ≥8.5% with no upper limit). The primary outcome was the baseline-adjusted between-group difference in glycated hemoglobin at 13 weeks. RESULTS: A total of 80 patients underwent randomization (37 to automated insulin delivery and 43 to control) and all patients completed the trial. At 13 weeks, the mean (±SD) glycated hemoglobin decreased from 10.5±1.9% to 8.1±1.8% in the automated insulin delivery group but remained relatively consistent in the control group, changing from 10.4±1.6% to 10.6±1.8% (baseline-adjusted between-group difference, -2.5 percentage points; 95% confidence interval [CI], -3.1 to -1.8; P<0.001). Patients in the automated insulin delivery group spent on average 8.4 hours more in the target glucose range of 70 to 180 mg/dl than those in the control group. One severe hypoglycemia event and two diabetic ketoacidosis events occurred in the control group, with no such events in the automated insulin delivery group. CONCLUSIONS: In this trial of 80 children and youth with elevated glycated hemoglobin, automated insulin delivery significantly reduced glycated hemoglobin compared with usual diabetes care, without resulting in severe hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis events. (Funded by Lions Clubs New Zealand District 202F and others; Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry number, ACTRN12622001454763.).

General practitioner and nurse experiences of type 2 diabetes management and prescribing in primary care: a qualitative review following the introduction of funded SGLT2i/GLP1RA medications in Aotearoa New Zealand.

AIM: To explore the views of general practitioners (GPs) and nurses on type 2 diabetes (T2D) management, including the use of recently funded T2D medications in New Zealand (NZ) and their perceived barriers to providing optimal care. BACKGROUND: T2D is a significant health concern in NZ, particularly among Maori and Pacific adults. Characterised by prolonged hyperglycaemia, T2D is generally a progressive condition requiring long-term care. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted between July and December 2022 with 21 primary care clinicians (10 GPs and 11 nurses/nurse prescribers) from nine different general practice clinics across the Auckland and Waikato regions of NZ. Framework analysis was conducted to identify common themes in clinicians' perceptions and experiences with T2D management. FINDINGS: Three themes were identified: health-system factors, new medications, and solution-based approaches. Lack of clinician time, healthcare funding, staff shortages, and burn-out were identified as barriers to T2D management under health-system factors. The two newly funded medications, empagliflozin and dulaglutide, were deemed to be a positive change for T2D care in that they improved patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes, but several clinicians were hesitant to prescribe these medications. Participants suggested that additional education and specialist diabetes support would be helpful to inform optimal medication prescribing and that better use of a multi-disciplinary team (clinical and support staff) could support T2D care by reducing workload, addressing cultural gaps in healthcare delivery, and reducing burnout. An improved primary care work environment, including appropriate professional development to support prescribing of new medications and the value of collaboration with a non-regulated workforce, may be required to facilitate optimal T2D management in primary care. Future research should focus on interventions to increase support for both clinical teams and patients while adopting a culturally appropriate approach to increase patient satisfaction and improve health outcomes.

Validation of the Lift-Off Screw Technique in Patients Undergoing Corrective Osteotomy for Malunited Distal Radius Fractures.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to validate the clinical accuracy of the lift-off screw (LOS) technique for volar tilt correction (VTC) in patients undergoing corrective osteotomy for dorsally angulated distal radius fracture malunions. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of 23 patients with dorsally angulated distal radius fracture malunions treated with corrective osteotomy using the LOS technique. The LOS equation Ls = [tan(Tc) ∗ Lp + C]/[cos(⍬s)] and standardized intraoperative fluoroscopic images were used to determine and compare the calculated and clinical VTC and final volar tilt. Correlations between the LOS length and the clinical VTC were calculated, as well as between the desired VTC and the correction accuracy. RESULTS: Preoperative volar tilt ranged from -6° to -50° (mean = -22.9° ± 10.6°). The calculated VTC was 32.7° ± 9.4°, and the clinical VTC achieved was 25.8° ± 9.3°. The difference between the clinical and calculated correction was -6.9°, with an average postoperative clinical volar tilt of 2.8° ± 5.7°, compared with a calculated volar tilt of 9.7° ± 4.4°. There was a moderately strong positive correlation between LOS screw length and clinical VTC achieved, and a moderately weak negative correlation between the desired amount of correction and the accuracy of the correction. CONCLUSIONS: The LOS technique is a reproducible method to plan the amount of sagittal plane correction during corrective osteotomy surgery for dorsally angulated distal radius fracture malunions. We demonstrate that this technique underestimates the clinical correction achieved by an average of 7°, with larger deformities experiencing greater undercorrection. Undercorrection of volar tilt during corrective osteotomy should be anticipated by surgeons and considered in future implant and cutting guide designs. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Chronic Adaptation of the Coracohumeral Space and Subscapularis Tendon in Professional Baseball Pitchers.

BACKGROUND: Pitchers frequently experience anterior shoulder pain, possibly associated with coracohumeral impingement; however, whether the coracohumeral distance (CHD) and/or subscapularis tendon adapt chronically (bilateral difference) due to pitching, and whether clinical measures are associated with CHD and subscapularis tendon organization have not been evaluated in professional pitchers. HYPOTHESIS: The authors hypothesized that dominant arm CHD would be smaller than the nondominant arm, dominant subscapularis tendon would have increased spatial frequency (ie, be more disorganized), and humeral retroversion (HR) would predict CHD and subscapularis tendon organization. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4. METHODS: Healthy professional baseball pitchers were recruited during their preseason physical examination. Bilateral diagnostic ultrasound measured CHD, HR, and posterior capsule thickness (PCT), and quantified subscapularis tendon organization. External rotation, neutral, and crossbody CHD was measured. RESULTS: Overall, 52 healthy professional baseball pitchers participated. The dominant arm of pitchers demonstrated a significantly narrower CHD in all 3 positions (P < 0.01), increased scapular protraction (163 vs 156 mm; P < 0.01), and increased spatial frequency of the subscapularis tendon (1.8 vs 1.6 peaks/mm; P < 0.01). HR was associated with CHD in 30° of external rotation (R2 = 0.12; P < 0.01), neutral rotation (R2 = 0.11; P < 0.01), and the crossbody position (R2 = 0.28; P < 0.01). PCT was associated with CHD in 30° of external rotation (R2 = 0.16; P = 0.05). HR and CHD in 30° of external rotation was associated most strongly with subscapularis tendon organization (R2 = 0.11; P = 0.03). CONCLUSION: The dominant shoulder of professional pitchers presents with a smaller CHD, more scapular protraction, and more subscapularis tendon disorganization than the nondominant shoulder. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Professional pitchers demonstrate chronic CHD and subscapularis tendon adaptations, which may increase their risk for anterior shoulder pain and subscapularis tendon injury.

Evaluating Return to Sports After Surgical Treatment of Unstable Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Knee: A Systematic Review.

Background: Although the incidence of osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the knee may be low, an overview and comparison of sports-related outcomes with current surgical management techniques are needed. Purpose: To summarize the available evidence regarding outcomes for different surgical treatment options for unstable OCD of the knee in both skeletally mature and immature patients by calculating the return to sports (RTS) rate, the mean RTS time, and other sports-related postoperative outcome measures. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A systematic review of studies on RTS after surgical correction of unstable OCD within the knee was conducted utilizing PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane databases. Included were studies discussing the treatment of unstable OCD with minimum 1-year follow-up outcomes. Multivariate analysis was used to compare studies grouped together based on RTS and skeletal maturity. Results: Of 2229 articles, 6 studies (197 patients; 198 knees) met the inclusion criteria and were included in our analysis. The percentage of patients who returned to the previous level of sport ranged from 52% to 100%; those returning to any level of sport ranged from 87% to 100%. Clinical outcomes did not differ between patients with open versus closed physes. Osteochondral Autograft Transfer System (OATS) procedures had a 100% RTS rate across several studies with skeletally mature and mixed cohorts, and microfracture had the lowest overall RTS rate (52%). For skeletally immature patients, all examined studies that utilized either open or arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation, 77% and 78%, respectively, had acceptable RTS rates. Arthroscopic fixation had a higher rate of revision surgery in both skeletally mature and immature patients. Conclusion: Our analysis indicated that the treatment of unstable OCD lesions using the OATS technique demonstrated high RTS rates across several studies, while microfracture alone exhibited the lowest RTS rate. Both arthroscopic and open internal fixation utilizing bioabsorbable screws yielded satisfactory RTS rates for juvenile patients with OCD.

Diabetes treatment satisfaction among a multi-ethnic Aotearoa New Zealand population with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus.

AIMS: To assess whether diabetes treatment satisfaction differs by ethnicity among participants with insufficient glycaemic control of type 2 diabetes mellitus in a clinical trial involving additional oral diabetes medications. Patient satisfaction is used as an indicator of healthcare quality. However, data on patients' diabetes treatment satisfaction in the context of insufficient glycaemic control is limited. METHODS: Individuals with type 2 diabetes and an HbA1c of 58-110mmol/mol (7.5-12.5%) were recruited across Aotearoa New Zealand to participate in an 8-month randomised crossover study of vildagliptin and pioglitazone as add-on therapy to metformin and/or sulfonylurea. Participants completed the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (DTSQ) at baseline pre-randomisation. Treatment satisfaction scores were compared between ethnic groups and other characteristics using the analysis of variance and linear regression. Perceived hyper- and hypoglycaemia were summarised separately. RESULTS: Between February 2019 and March 2020, 346 participants (41% women, 32% Pacific peoples, 23% Maori, 26% European) completed the DTSQ. Mean (SD) age was 57.5 (10.9) years, diabetes duration was 9 (6.3) years and HbA1c was 75 (12)mmol/mol (9.0[3.2]%). At study entry, 40% were receiving monotherapy for diabetes. Treatment satisfaction was rated highly, with a score of 29(6) (interquartile range 25-33). Pacific peoples and older people reported greater treatment satisfaction than other groups (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Diabetes treatment satisfaction was high, particularly among Pacific peoples, despite suboptimal glycaemic control and insufficient glucose-lowering therapy.

Is There a Relationship Between Grip Strength and Injuries in Professional Baseball Players?

Background: Injuries in professional baseball players have become exceedingly common. Efforts to mitigate injury risk have focused on the kinetic chain, shoulder motion, and so forth. It is unclear whether grip strength is related to injury risk in professional baseball pitchers. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to determine if grip strength was a risk factor for injury. It was hypothesized that pitchers with weaker grip strength would have a higher likelihood of sustaining a shoulder or elbow injury compared with pitchers with stronger grip strength. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: All professional pitchers from a single Major League Baseball organization were included. Dominant and nondominant grip strength were measured after each pitching outing throughout the 2022 season. Injuries over the course of the season were recorded, and data were compared between pitchers who sustained a shoulder or elbow injury and those who did not. Results: Overall, 213 pitchers were included, of whom 53 (24.9%) sustained a shoulder or elbow injury during the season. The mean grip strength for all pitchers was 144.0 ± 20.8 lb (65.3 ± 9.4 kg). The mean dominant-arm grip strength was 142.6 ± 20.8 lb (64.7 ± 9.4 kg) for pitchers who did not sustain a shoulder or elbow injury and 148.2 ± 20.9 lb (67.2 ± 9.5 kg) for pitchers who did sustain an injury, with no significant group difference in grip strength (P > .05). Furthermore, there were no significant differences in change in grip strength over the course of the season between the groups. Conclusion: There was no significant difference in mean grip strength or change in grip strength over the course of a single season between professional baseball pitchers who sustained a shoulder or elbow injury and those who did not.

Arthroscopic assisted versus open non-vascularized bone grafting in delayed union and nonunion of the scaphoid: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Delayed union and nonunion of the scaphoid is a common complication often requiring surgical reconstruction and bone grafting. Our goal was to systematically assess the healing time and clinical outcomes following arthroscopic-assisted versus open non-vascularized bone grafting of the scaphoid. METHODS: A comprehensive search of the MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), and Cochrane Central databases was completed from inception to September 2023. We included randomized trials and observational studies that reported outcomes following scaphoid delayed union/nonunion comparing arthroscopic-assisted vs. open non-vascularized bone grafting. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias. One investigator assessed certainty of evidence and a senior investigator confirmed the assessment. We pooled effects using random-effects models, when possible, for all outcomes reported by more than 1 study. RESULTS: Overall, 26 studies and 822 patients were included in the study. Very low certainty evidence demonstrated that arthroscopic-assisted surgery may decrease healing time compared to open surgery (weighted mean difference [WMD] -7.8 weeks; 95%CI -12.8 to -2.8). Arthroscopic bone grafting did not result in an improvement in union rate (relative risk 1.01; 95%CI 0.9 to 1.09). The pooled data in arthroscopic graft group showed mean time to union of 11.4 weeks (95%CI: 10.4 to 12.5) with union rate of 95% (95%CI 91-98%). A single comparative study reported very low certainty evidence that arthroscopy-assisted vs. open surgery may not have an effect on pain relief (MD 0 cm, 95%CI -0.4 to 0.5 on VAS 10 cm for pain) or improving function (MD -1.2, 95% CI -4.8 to 2.3 on 100 points DASH). CONCLUSION AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS: Our results suggest that arthroscopic-assisted non-vascularized bone grafting may be associated with improved average weeks to heal in comparison with open surgery for scaphoid delayed union/nonunion reconstruction with overall comparable union rates. There is insufficient evidence to assess the effects of arthroscopic-assisted reconstruction on union rate, time to union, and patient-reported outcomes in patients with other important nonunion characteristics such as established humpback deformity.

The effects of social determinants of health on rotator cuff repair utilization and outcomes: a systematic review.

Background: Since various social determinants of health (SDOH) have the potential to impact the utilization and postoperative outcomes of rotator cuff repair (RCR), a review of the literature is warranted. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of SDOH on RCR utilization and postoperative outcomes in order to recognize external factors that may influence patients' access to RCR and optimal clinical outcomes. Methods: Search terms related to RCR, utilization, outcomes, and SDOH were used to identify studies that reported associations between any SDOH (as defined by the World Health Organization) and RCR utilization, access, cost, or postoperative outcomes. Articles that did not isolate RCR or did not evaluate an SDOH were excluded. Nonrandomized studies were evaluated for study quality using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies score. Due to the heterogeneity of the reported data, only qualitative analysis was possible. Results: Overall, 842 articles were considered for inclusion and 14 studies were included in qualitative analysis. The average Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies score of included studies was 14.1 ± 5.0. The SDOH most frequently evaluated were insurance status and race/ethnicity. Non-White race is associated with lower odds of surgery and physical therapy (PT) utilization, as well as delayed treatment. Similarly, public insurance is associated with lower PT and surgery utilization rates and decreased acceptance for postoperative PT. Postoperatively, public insurance is associated with worse patient-reported outcome scores and lower return to work rates. Conclusion: Various SDOH can influence access, utilization, and outcomes of RCR. Orthopedic surgeons should be aware of how factors of race and insurance type can influence a patient's treatment and recovery after RCR.

Predictors of Patient-Reported Outcomes After Hyaluronic Acid Injections: Effect of Expectations and Psychological Stress.

INTRODUCTION: Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections are a common nonsurgical treatment of knee osteoarthritis (OA). Patient expectations and psychological stress are believed to affect outcomes after orthopaedic procedures. METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study seeking to identify factors predictive of greater patient-reported outcomes after HA injections, particularly expectations and psychological stress. 250 patients receiving a series of HA injections for knee OA were enrolled, with 196 being included for analysis. Demographics, surgical history, and preoperative Kellgren-Lawrence severity scores were collected, and patients completed the Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) questionnaire, a modified KOOS questionnaire assessing their 6-month postinjection expectations, and the Perceived Stress Scale before the first injection. Outcomes were assessed at 3 weeks and 3 and 6 months after the final injection. RESULTS: KOOS scores improved from preinjection to 6-month follow-up but did not meet patients' expectations or minimal clinically important difference. Expectations correlated with 6-month KOOS pain, activities of daily living, sport, and quality of life subscales (ρ = 0.19 to 0.34), but not the symptom subscale (P = 0.10). Expectations (ρ = 0.31 to 0.37), younger age (ρ = -0.17 to -0.18), and greater perceived stress (ρ = 0.23) correlated with greater improvement from baseline KOOSs. Lower body mass index (ρ = -0.19 to -0.22), male sex (ρ = -0.17), and greater preinjection function (ρ = 0.37 to 0.46) correlated with greater 6-month outcomes. Stress measured on the Perceived Stress Scale did not correlate with 6-month KOOSs (P ≥ 0.27). Lower Kellgren-Lawrence severity score was weakly associated with greater 6-month KOOS activities of daily living and sport scores (ρ = -0.15 to -0.16) and greater improvement in the KOOS symptom score (ρ = -0.15). DISCUSSION: This study identified that higher expectations, lower body mass index, younger age, male sex, lower radiographic severity, greater preinjection function, and greater perceived stress are associated with greater patient outcomes after HA injection. Physicians should consider these factors when counseling patients with knee OA about viscosupplementation. STUDY TYPE: Prospective Cohort Study (Level of Evidence II).

A meta-analysis comparing complications of anterior versus dorsal osteotomy and plating for distal radial malunions.

This systematic review and meta-analysis compare the incidences of complications, reoperations and hardware removal between anterior and dorsal plating after corrective osteotomy for dorsally angulated distal radial malunions. A total of 403 patients were included; 253 patients underwent anterior corrective osteotomy and 150 underwent dorsal corrective osteotomy. Mean follow-up was 30 months. Anterior plating was associated with fewer reoperations (9% vs. 28%), less hardware removal (3% vs. 18%) and comparable major complications (5% vs. 6%) compared to dorsal plating. The adjusted model showed a significant reduction (approximately 85%) in the odds of reoperation and hardware removal in the anterior group. There was no difference in major or minor complications between the groups. Surgeons should be fully aware of the increased risks when using dorsal plate fixation after corrective osteotomy for dorsally angulated distal radial malunions.

Emergent inequity of glycaemic metrics for Maori children with type 1 diabetes is negated by early use of continuous glucose monitoring.

AIM: We investigated if continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) within 12 months of being diagnosed modifies the development of glycaemic outcome inequity on the basis of either ethnicity or socio-economic status (SES). METHOD: De-identified clinical and SES data from the KIWIDIAB data network were collected 12 months after diagnosis in children under 15 years diagnosed with T1D between 1 October 2020 and 1 October 2021. RESULTS: There were 206 children with new onset T1D: CGM use was 56.7% for Maori and 77.2% for Europeans. Mean (SD) HbA1c was 62.4 (14.2) mmol/mol at 12 months post diagnosis, but Maori were 9.4mmol/mol higher compared to Europeans (p<0.001). For those without CGM, Maori had an HbA1c 10.8 (95% CI 2.3 to 19.4, p=0.013) mmol/mol higher than Europeans, whereas there was no evidence of a difference between Maori and Europeans using CGM (62.1 [9.3] mmol/mol vs 58.5 [12.4] mmol/mol p=0.53 respectively). Comparing quintiles of SES, HbA1c was 10.8 (95% CI 4.7 to 16.9, p<0.001) mmol/mol higher in the lowest quintile of SES compared to the highest. CONCLUSION: These observational data suggest CGM use ameliorates the ethnic disparity in HbA1c at 12 months in new onset T1D.

Silicon supplementation can reduce infestation by azalea lace bug-(Hemiptera: Tingidae).

The azalea lace bug (ALB), Stephanitis pyrioides (Scott) (Hemiptera: Tingidae), is a pest of azaleas and rhododendrons. The application of silicon (Si) to plants has been shown to accumulate in other plants and enhance defense to other plant pests. We evaluated whether Si applications decreased ALB infestation on rhododendron leaves and increased Si accumulation in leaves. Potted plants were treated with 4 or 8 weekly applications of calcium silicate and calcium carbonate (calcium control, Ca) via foliar or soil application. In 3 out of 4 choice studies, plants treated with calcium silicate or calcium carbonate had less frass deposition and oviposition by ALB compared to controls, but treated plants did not consistently have fewer ALB adults. Leaf damage was quantified in one study and leaves with more frass as an indicator of feeding had more visible damage. In no-choice studies, there were no differences between treatments in one study, but oviposition was greater on foliar/soil Si-treated plants than controls in another study. Since rhododendron aphids (Illinoia lambersi) appeared in the greenhouse during or after studies, we compared their colonization on previously treated rhododendrons. Infestation of new leaf rosettes or random leaves by I. lambersi was lower on plants sprayed with foliar silicon or calcium applied via soil in 2 studies. Treated rhododendrons did not accumulate extra Si or Ca in leaves compared to controls. In general, silicon or calcium application protected rhododendrons from ALB oviposition and aphid colonization in free-choice conditions, and may be part of an integrated pest management program.

Partial Scapholunate Interosseous Ligament Injuries: A Systematic Review of Treatment Options.

Purpose This systematic review summarizes the existing evidence on treatment options and outcomes for partial scapholunate interosseous ligament (pSLIL) injuries. Methods A systematic electronic search of Medline, Embase, and CINAHL was performed from inception through to February 13, 2022. All primary research articles addressing the treatment of pSLIL tears were eligible for inclusion regardless of timing of surgery, surgical technique, or rehabilitation. The PRISMA Checklist guided the reporting and data abstraction. Descriptive statistics and forest plots are presented. Results A total of 14 studies with 342 patients were included for analysis. Treatments were categorized into four groups: electrothermal shrinkage (ES), arthroscopic capsuloplasty (AC), open capsulodesis (OC), and no treatment (NT). There were five studies in the ES group ( N = 69, mean age = 34.3 ± 3.3 years), three studies in the AC group ( N = 138, mean age = 32.2 ± 3.8 years), five studies in the OC group ( N = 123, mean age of 30.7 ± 7.8 years), and one study in the NT group ( N = 12, mean age = 43 years, range = 28-67 years). The average postintervention visual analog scale pain score for the ES group was 1.4 ± 0.5 (from 5.7 ± 1.8), for the AC group was 3.2 ± 1.3 (from 6.6 ± 0), for the OC group was 2.3 ± 2.1 (from 5.6 ± 1.6), and for the NT group was 3.2 (from 7.6). The wrist extension range of motion improved postoperatively for all intervention groups (ES = 66.3°-70.7°; AC = 67°-74.5°; and OC = 48.9°-63.5°), whereas it remained unchanged for the NT group (46°-45°). Grip strength also improved in all intervention groups (ES = 17.9-29.9 kg; AC = 24.0-32.2 kg; and OC = 15.8-26.6 kg), while the NT group remained unchanged (25-24 kg). The radiographic scapholunate gap improved postoperatively in all groups that reported pre- and postintervention (ES = 2.2-1.9 mm; OC = 2.5-1.8 mm) and slightly worsened in the NT group (2.5-2.7 mm). In the ES group, there were three complications (11.5%, no major complications), in the AC group there was one major complication (0.9%, complex regional pain syndrome [CRPS]), and in the OC group there were six complications (15.4%, four major complications-CRPS). Conclusion All interventional treatment options (ES, AC, and OC) provided significant improvements in patient-reported pain, range of motion, grip strength, and radiographic parameters, with low complication rates. In comparison, no improvement in range of motion or grip strength was noted in the NT group. Therefore, surgical management of pSLIL injuries is an effective and relatively safe treatment option. Further studies comparing the outcomes of specific surgical treatments are warranted to further elucidate the optimal management option for pSLIL tears. Level of Evidence Level III, systematic review of Level III-IV studies.

Time to surgical management of distal radius fractures: effects on health care utilization and functional outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Distal radius fractures are common injuries. Open reduction and internal fixation with volar locking plates is the most common approach for surgical fixation. This study investigated the association between time to surgery and health care utilization, income, and functional outcomes among patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation for distal radius fracture. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for isolated acute distal radius fracture between 2009 and 2019. Time to surgery was grouped as early (≤ 14 d) and delayed (> 14 d). We performed χ2 (or Fisher exact) and Wilcoxon rank sum (or Kruskal-Wallis) tests to provide statistical comparison of time to surgery by health care utilization and functional outcomes. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors significantly associated with time to surgery. We included all significant univariables in the multivariable logistic regression model, which identified factors based on significant adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals excluding the null) after we adjusted for confounding variables. RESULTS: We included 106 patients, with 36 (34.0%) in the group receiving early treatment and 70 (66.0%) in the group receiving delayed treatment. Patients in the delayed-treatment group attended significantly more clinic visits and postoperative hand therapy sessions. The group with delayed treatment demonstrated significantly lower degrees of wrist flexion at the first follow-up, but this difference did not persist. Patients with higher estimated income (> $39 405 per annum) had lower odds of delayed surgery than those with lower estimated income (≤ $39 405). CONCLUSION: Delayed time to surgery was associated with greater health care utilization and lower degrees of early wrist flexion. Access to care for lower-income patients warrants further evaluation.

An Effective Fluorescent Marker for Tracking the Dispersal of Small Insects with Field Evidence of Mark-Release-Recapture of Trissolcus japonicus.

Understanding insect dispersal helps us predict the spread of insect pests and their natural enemies. Dispersal can be studied by marking, releasing, and recapturing insects, known as mark-release-recapture (MRR). MRR techniques should be convenient, economical, and persistent. Currently, there are limited options for marking small parasitoids that do not impact their fitness and dispersal ability. We evaluated commercially available fluorescent markers used in forensics. These fluorophores can easily be detected by ultraviolet (UV) light, requiring minimal costs and labor to process the marked specimens. This fluorophore marking technique was evaluated with the pest Drosophila suzukii and three parasitoids: Trissolcus japonicus, Pachycrepoideus vindemiae, Ganaspis brasiliensis (=G. kimorum). We evaluated the persistence of the marks on all the insects over time and examined the parasitoids for impacts on longevity, parasitism, locomotor activity, and flight take-off. The green fluorophore marker persisted for over 20 days on all four species. Marking generally did not consistently reduce the survival, parasitism rate, locomotor activity, or take-off of the parasitoids tested. Marked T. japonicus were recaptured in the field up to 100 m away from the release point and three weeks after release, indicating that this technique is a viable method for studying parasitoid dispersal.

Acceptability and experiences of real-time continuous glucose monitoring in adults with type 2 diabetes using insulin: a qualitative study.

Aims: To explore the lived experiences of initiating real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rt-CGM) use in individuals with type 2 diabetes using insulin. Methods: Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted amongst individuals with type 2 diabetes taking insulin who were enrolled in the 2GO-CGM randomised controlled trial and had completed 3 months of rtCGM. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed to identify common themes regarding their experiences. Results: The interviews revealed three key themes: i) rtCGM as a facilitator of improved health behaviours; ii) the acceptability of rtCGM systems compared to capillary blood glucose testing; and iii) barriers to the continual usage of rtCGM technology - including: connection difficulties, longevity of the sensors, and local cutaneous reactions to the sensor adhesive. Conclusion: Adults on insulin with type 2 diabetes find rtCGM systems widely acceptable, and easier to engage with than traditional self-monitoring of capillary blood glucose. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-024-01403-9.

Protocol for a prospective, multicenter, parallel-group, open-label randomized controlled trial comparing standard care with Closed lOoP In chiLdren and yOuth with Type 1 diabetes and high-risk glycemic control: the CO-PILOT trial.

Purpose: Advanced hybrid closed loop (AHCL) systems have the potential to improve glycemia and reduce burden for people with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Children and youth, who are at particular risk for out-of-target glycemia, may have the most to gain from AHCL. However, no randomized controlled trial (RCT) specifically targeting this age group with very high HbA1c has previously been attempted. Therefore, the CO-PILOT trial (Closed lOoP In chiLdren and yOuth with Type 1 diabetes and high-risk glycemic control) aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of AHCL in this group. Methods: A prospective, multicenter, parallel-group, open-label RCT, comparing MiniMed™ 780G AHCL to standard care (multiple daily injections or continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion). Eighty participants aged 7-25 years with T1D, a current HbA1c ≥ 8.5% (69 mmol/mol), and naïve to automated insulin delivery will be randomly allocated to AHCL or control (standard care) for 13 weeks. The primary outcome is change in HbA1c between baseline and 13 weeks. Secondary outcomes include standard continuous glucose monitor glycemic metrics, psychosocial factors, sleep, platform performance, safety, and user experience. This RCT will be followed by a continuation phase where the control arm crosses over to AHCL and all participants use AHCL for a further 39 weeks to assess longer term outcomes. Conclusion: This study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of AHCL in this population and has the potential to demonstrate that AHCL is the gold standard for children and youth with T1D experiencing out-of-target glucose control and considerable diabetes burden. Trial registration: This trial was prospectively registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry on 14 November 2022 (ACTRN12622001454763) and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (Universal Trial Number U1111-1284-8452). Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-024-01397-4.

Association Between Preoperative Patient Resilience and Patient-Reported Outcomes After Rotator Cuff Repair.

Background: Mental and emotional health can affect outcomes after orthopaedic surgery, and patient resilience has been found to be significantly related to postoperative functional outcomes. Purpose: To evaluate the relationship between preoperative patient resilience and 2-year postoperative patient-reported outcomes after rotator cuff repair (RCR). It was hypothesized that patients with low preoperative resilience will have worse patient-reported outcomes at 2 years after RCR versus those with high resilience. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Patients who underwent primary arthroscopic RCR in 2020 at a single institution and completed the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) preoperatively were identified. Other inclusion criteria were American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scores at the 2-year follow-up. Outcomes were compared in patients as divided into low resilience (BRS score >1 SD below the mean), normal resilience (BRS score ≤1 SD of the mean), and high resilience (BRS score >1 SD above the mean) groups. Results: Overall, 100 patients (52 male, 48 female; mean age, 60 ± 9 years) were included in this study. Mean BRS scores did not change significantly from preoperative to 2-year follow-up (3.8 ± 0.7 vs 3.9 ± 0.8, P = .404). All patients had preoperative ASES scores. Low-resilience patients (n = 17) had significantly lower preoperative ASES scores compared with normal (n = 64) and high resilience (n = 19) patients (35 vs 42 vs 54, respectively; P = .022). There were no significant group differences in postoperative outcomes (revision rate, ASES score, ASES score improvement from preoperative to 2-year follow-up, or SANE score). Multivariate analysis indicated that preoperative resilience was not significantly associated with ASES score improvement (ß estimate = -5.64, P = .150), while resilience at 2-year follow-up was significantly related to ASES score improvement (ß estimate = 6.41, P = .031). Conclusion: Patient-reported outcomes at 2-year follow-up did not differ based on preoperative patient resilience for arthroscopic RCR patients. Multivariate analysis also showed that preoperative resilience was not associated with improvement in ASES scores; however, resilience at 2-year follow-up was associated with ASES score improvement.

Real time continuous glucose monitoring in high-risk people with insulin-requiring type 2 diabetes: A randomised controlled trial.

AIMS: To investigate the impact of real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rtCGM) on glycaemia in a predominantly indigenous (Maori) population of adults with insulin-requiring type 2 diabetes (T2D) in New Zealand. METHODS: Twelve-week, multicentre randomised controlled trial (RCT) of adults with T2D using ≥0.2 units/kg/day of insulin and elevated glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) ≥64 mmol/mol (8.0%). Following a 2-week blinded CGM run-in phase, participants were randomised to rtCGM or control (self-monitoring blood glucose [SMBG]). The primary outcome was time in the target glucose range (3.9-10 mmol/L; TIR) during weeks 10-12, with data collected by blinded rtCGM in the control group. RESULTS: Sixty-seven participants entered the RCT phase (54% Maori, 57% female), median age 53 (range 16-70 years), HbA1c 85 (IQR 74, 94) mmol/mol (9.9 [IQR 8.9, 10.8]%), body mass index (36.7 ± 7.7 kg/m2). Mean (±SD) TIR increased from 37 (24)% to 53 (24)% [Δ 13%; 95% CI 4.2 to 22; P = 0.007] in the rtCGM group but did not change in the SMBG group [45 (21)% to 45 (25)%, Δ 2.5%, 95% CI -6.1 to 11, P = 0.84]. Baseline-adjusted between-group difference in TIR was 10.4% [95% CI -0.9 to 21.7; P = 0.070]. Mean HbA1c (±SD) decreased in both groups from 85 (18) mmol/mol (10.0 [1.7]%) to 64 (16) mmol/mol (8.0 [1.4]%) in the rtCGM arm and from 81 (12) mmol/mol (9.6 [1.1]%) to 65 (13) mmol/mol (8.1 [1.2]%) in the SMBG arm (P < 0.001 for both). There were no severe hypoglycaemic or ketoacidosis events in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Real-time CGM use in a supportive treat-to-target model of care likely improves glycaemia in a population with insulin-treated T2D and elevated HbA1c.