Author: Mokhtar

Paragon 28 Adds Second Mobile Medical Education Lab, Significantly Expanding Hugely Successful Training Program for Foot and Ankle Surgeons

ENGLEWOOD, CO, November 13, 2023–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Paragon 28, Inc. (NYSE: FNA) is pleased to announce the addition of a second trailer to its nationwide mobile laboratory training program, making it even easier for the company to facilitate on-site training and education of surgeons. Paragon 28’s new mobile laboratory is housed in a 40-foot tractor-trailer with a state-of-the-art cadaver training facility with 5 stations and space for up to 25 surgeons. The mobile laboratory will host more than 70 training sessions in approximately 65 U.S. cities in the fourth quarter of 2023. The mobile laboratory program launched in July 2022 and has been an incredible success for Paragon 28, allowing the company to efficiently train more than 350 surgeons.

“We are very excited to add a second laboratory to our mobile education program and increase our ability to bring education directly to surgeons. The mobile laboratory program has enabled Paragon 28 to find the most effective location for medical education to support our growing product portfolio and surgeon customers,” said Albert DaCosta, CEO and co-founder of Paragon 28. “The mobile laboratory program has proven to be an effective and versatile option to showcase P28’s broad and innovative product portfolio, which includes new solutions in the growing forefoot, HAV and rearfoot market segments.”

For more information about the Paragon 28 Surgeon Mobile Lab, visit the following site: Paragon 28 Mobile Lab

About Paragon 28, Inc.

Based in Englewood, CO., Paragon 28 is a leading medical device company focused exclusively on the foot and ankle orthopedic market and committed to improving the lives of patients. Since its inception, Paragon 28® has provided innovative orthopedic solutions, procedural approaches and devices covering a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including fracture fixation, hallux valgus (bunions), hammer toe, ankle, progressive collapsible foot deformity (PCFD) or flat foot, Charcot foot and orthobiology. The company designs products with both the patient and surgeon in mind, with the goals of improving outcomes, reducing recurrences of disease and complications, and making procedures simpler, more consistent and reproducible.

Forward-Looking Statements

Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters set forth in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, but not limited to to: Paragon 28’s potential to shape a better future for foot and ankle patients. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are only predictions based on our current expectations, estimates and assumptions, which speak only as of the date on which they are made, and are subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which we are not currently aware of. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results and may not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at or at which such performance or results will be achieved. These forward-looking statements are based on Paragon 28’s current expectations and inherently involve significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements due to these risks and uncertainties. For a further description of the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as the risks associated with Paragon 28’s business generally, see the current and future reports from Paragon 28 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, as updated periodically with its other filings with the SEC. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release, and Paragon 28 assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements . except as required by law.

Contacts

Contact person for investors

Matthew Brinckman
Senior Vice President, Strategy and Investor Relations
Phone: (720) 912-1332
mbrinckman@paragon28.com

Image: Business Wire

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November 14, 2023
One in five people taking nirmatrelvir-ritonavir treatment were found to experience rebound COVID

A new study by researchers at Mass General Brigham found that one in five people taking Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir treatment, commonly known as Paxlovid, to treat severe symptoms of COVID-19 experienced a positive test result and excretion of live and potentially contagious virus after initial recovery and negative test; a phenomenon known as virological rebound. In contrast, people who didn’t take Paxlovid experienced a rebound only about 2 percent of the time. Results are published in Annals of Internal Medicine.

We conducted this study to answer lingering questions about Paxlovid and virologic rebound in the treatment of COVID-19. We found that the virological rebound phenomenon was much more common than expected – in more than 20% of people taking Paxlovid – and that individuals shed live virus when they experience a rebound, indicating the potential for transmission after initially recovering were from the virus.”

Mark Siedner, MD, MPH, Corresponding author, physician and infectious disease researcher at the Division of Infectious Diseases at Massachusetts General Hospital

Paxlovid is an oral antiviral medication used to treat COVID-19. Previous studies show the drug’s effectiveness in reducing hospitalizations and deaths in cases of severe COVID-19 infection. Since the integration of Paxlovid into the treatment of COVID-19, some patients have reported a virological rebound. A previously conducted phase 3 clinical trial, known as EPIC-HR, suggested that only 1% to 2% of patients taking Paxlovid experienced a virological rebound. However, research by Siedner and colleagues shows that this phenomenon is much more common than previously suspected.

Paxlovid remains a life-saving drug that I prescribe to high-risk patients. This study, while informative, does not change the fact that this drug is highly effective in preventing hospitalizations and death. Instead, it provides valuable insights to Paxlovid patients, helping them understand what to expect and how long they may remain contagious.”

Jonathon Li, MD, co-senior author, infectious disease physician and investigator in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Siedner, Li, and other researchers from Mass General Brigham collected data from the Post-vaccination Viral Characteristics Study (POSITIVES), an ongoing study of individuals diagnosed with acute COVID-19 infections. Between March 2022 and May 2023, 142 individuals were selected for the study based on positive COVID-19 tests, medication prescriptions or physician referrals. Sorting participants into those who followed a five-day Paxlovid regimen and those who did not, they closely monitored patients’ viral loads and symptoms, cultured virus samples and performed whole genome sequencing. Patients who tested positive for COVID-19 after previously testing negative and those who showed two consecutive increases in viral load after an initial reduction were classified as having virological rebound.

Researchers found that 20.8% of participants taking Paxlovid experienced a virological rebound, while only 1.8% of those not taking Paxlovid had a similar rebound effect. Those with a rebound also showed prolonged virus shedding – an average of 14 days compared to less than 5 days in those who did not experience a rebound – suggesting they were potentially contagious for much longer. Importantly, Siedner’s team found no evidence of drug resistance in these patients.

The findings should not deter doctors from prescribing the medication, the researchers noted, but they should prompt them to counsel patients taking the medication about the risk of viral rebound and spreading the virus to others. Advising patients to retest and isolate in case of a rebound should be part of that conversation, the team said.

The original EPIC-HR study assessed patient outcomes at only two time points. When the Mass General Brigham researchers matched their data analysis to selected time points from the EPIC-HR study, they found virologic recovery in only 2.4% of participants, suggesting that the previous study did not capture the full extent of represented virological recovery.

“In our study, we were able to closely monitor patients from the onset of COVID-19 infection through treatment and rebound,” Li explains. “Unlike the EPIC-HR study, which assessed outcomes at only two time points, we followed up with patients three times a week, sometimes for months, and performed sample collection at home. We also had both viral RNA levels as viral culture data. have allowed us to paint a more comprehensive and nuanced picture of a patient’s experience with Paxlovid.”

This study is limited in that it was an observational study and not a randomized, controlled trial. Thus, the authors cannot be certain that the increased rebound rate observed in people taking Paxlovid was solely due to use of the drug. The team used a positive virus culture as a measure of risk of transmitting the virus, but could not formally measure how contagious someone was who experienced a virological rebound. Furthermore, the team could not explain why some people experienced a rebound and others did not. something they want to explore with future studies. They also plan to investigate the biological mechanism behind the rebound phenomenon associated with Paxlovid and determine whether changing the duration of treatment can help combat this rebound effect.

Source:

Magazine reference:

Edelstein, G.E. et al. (2023) SARS-CoV-2 virological rebound with nirmatrelvir-ritonavir therapy. Annals of Internal Medicine. doi.org/10.7326/M23-1756.

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November 14, 2023
Substitute Surgical Reports Third Quarter 2023 Financial Results
WALTHAM, Mass., November 13, 2023–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Vicarious Surgical Inc. (“Vicarious Surgical” or the “Company”) (NYSE: RBOT, RBOT WS), a next-generation robotics technology company committed to improving patient outcomes, as well as both the cost and efficiency of surgical procedures, today announced financial results for the quarter ended September 30, 2023. Management will host a corresponding conference call today, November 13, 2023, at 4:30 PM ET.

“The third quarter brought several successes for our company, but also introduced new challenges as we focused on building and integrating our version 1.0 system,” said Adam Sachs, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer. “While we were pleased with our ability to expand our cash runway through a follow-on equity offering and make meaningful progress on our individual subsystem builds, the impact of recent market-driven cost savings initiatives coupled with certain integration challenges has forced us to adjust our development schedule revised. We now expect to complete build and integration of the Version 1.0 system in Fall 2024 and therefore anticipate a De Novo submission around early to mid 2026. While there is still work to be done, we remain confident that our differentiated technology will allow us to revolutionize surgical robotics and transform the standard of care.”

Financial results third quarter 2023
- Operating expenses were $21.4 million for the third quarter of 2023, compared to $22.2 million in the corresponding period last year, a decrease of 4%.
- R&D expenditures for the third quarter of 2023 were $13.0 million, compared to $12.1 million in the third quarter of 2022.
- General and administrative expenses for the third quarter of 2023 were $6.9 million, compared to $8.1 million in the third quarter of 2022.
- Sales and marketing expenses for the third quarter of 2023 were $1.4 million, compared to $1.9 million in the third quarter of 2022.
- GAAP net loss for the third quarter was $15.7 million, representing a net loss per share of $0.10, compared to a GAAP net loss of $24.7 million, representing a net loss per share of $0.20 for the same period of the previous year. Adjusted net loss for the third quarter was $20.4 million, representing a net loss of $0.12 per share, compared to an adjusted net loss of $21.7 million, or a net loss of $0.18 per share, for the same period of the previous year.
- The company had $110 million in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments as of September 30, 2023, including $47 million in gross proceeds from the August follow-on equity offering. Excluding these gross revenues, cash burn for the third quarter of 2023 was $16.8 million.
- The company reduced fiscal 2023 cash burn guidance to $60-$65 million and initiated a preliminary fiscal 2024 cash burn guidance of $40-$55 million.
Conference call

Vicarious Surgical will hold a conference call to discuss its third quarter 2023 financial results on Monday, November 13, 2023 at 4:30 PM ET. Investors wishing to listen to the conference call can do so by dialing +1 (404) 975 4839 for domestic callers or +1 (929) 526 1599 for international callers and using the access code: 083118. A live and archived webcast of the event will be available at https://investor.vicarioussurgical.com.

About vicarious surgery

Founded in 2014, Vicarious Surgical is a next-generation robotics company developing a unique disruptive technology with multiple objectives: significantly increasing the efficiency of surgical procedures, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. The company’s new surgical approach uses patented humanoid surgical robots to transport surgeons inside the patient to perform minimally invasive surgery. The company is led by an experienced team of technologists, medical device professionals and physicians, and is backed by technology luminaries including Bill Gates, Vinod Khosla’s Khosla Ventures, Innovation Endeavors, Jerry Yang’s AME Cloud Ventures, Sun Hung Kai & Co. Ltd and Philip Liang’s E15 VC. The company is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts. More information can be found at www.vicarioussurgical.com.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In addition to providing financial measures prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“US GAAP”), Vicarious Surgical provides additional financial measures not prepared in accordance with US GAAP (“non-GAAP ”). ”). The non-GAAP financial measures included in this press release are adjusted net loss and adjusted net loss per share (“adjusted earnings per share,” and together with adjusted net loss “non-GAAP financial measures”). The company presents non-GAAP financial measures to help readers of its consolidated financial statements understand key operating results that management uses to evaluate the business and for financial planning purposes. Vicarious Surgical’s non-GAAP financial measures provide investors with an additional tool to compare financial performance over multiple periods.

Adjusted net loss and adjusted earnings per share are key performance measures that Vicarious Surgical management uses to assess operating performance. These non-GAAP financial measures facilitate internal comparisons of Vicarious Surgical’s operating performance on a more consistent basis. Vicarious Surgical uses these performance measures for business planning purposes and forecasting. Vicarious Surgical believes that the non-GAAP financial measures enhance an investor’s understanding of Vicarious Surgical’s financial performance as it is useful in assessing its operating performance from period to period by excluding certain items from which Vicarious Surgical believes they are not representative of its core business. .

The non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to similar measures of other companies because they may not calculate this measure in the same way. Adjusted net loss and adjusted earnings per share are not prepared in accordance with US GAAP and should not be considered separately from, or as an alternative to, measures prepared in accordance with US GAAP. When evaluating Vicarious Surgical’s performance, you should consider its non-GAAP financial measures in addition to other financial performance measures prepared in accordance with US GAAP, including net loss.

The non-GAAP financial measures do not replace the presentation of Vicarious Surgical’s financial results in accordance with US GAAP and should only be used in addition to, and not as a substitute for, Vicarious Surgical’s financial results presented in accordance with US GAAP. In this press release, Vicarious Surgical has provided a reconciliation between adjusted net loss and net loss, the most directly comparable financial measure under US GAAP, and the adjusted earnings per share calculation.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company’s actual results may differ from expectations, estimates and projections and, accordingly, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained herein, including but not limited to quotes from our Chief Executive Officer regarding, among other things, Vicarious Surgical’s opportunities, are forward-looking statements that reflect management’s current beliefs and expectations. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Most of these factors are beyond Vicarious Surgical’s control and are difficult to predict. Factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to: changes in applicable laws or regulations; Vicarious Surgical’s ability to obtain future financing; the success, cost and timing of Vicarious Surgical’s product and service development activities; the potential features and benefits of Vicarious Surgical’s product candidates and services; Vicarious Surgical’s ability to obtain and maintain regulatory approval for the Vicarious System within the expected timeline, and any related restrictions and limitations of any approved product; the size and duration of human clinical trials for replacement surgery; Vicarious Surgical’s ability to identify, license or acquire additional technology; Vicarious Surgical’s ability to maintain its existing licensing, manufacturing, supply and distribution agreements and scale production of the Vicarious Surgical System and any future product candidates to commercial quantities; Vicarious Surgical’s ability to compete with other companies that currently market or engage in products and services that Vicarious Surgical currently markets or develops, as well as the use of open operations; the size and growth potential of the markets for Vicarious Surgical’s product candidates and services, and its ability to serve those markets, alone or in collaboration with others; the pricing of Vicarious Surgical’s product candidates and services and reimbursement for medical procedures performed using the product candidates and services; the company’s ability to meet its estimates regarding expenses, revenues, capital requirements, cash runway and additional financing needs; Vicarious Surgical’s financial performance; Vicarious Surgical’s intellectual property rights, its ability to protect or enforce those rights, and the impact on its business, results of operations and financial condition if it fails to do so; economic downturn, political and market conditions and their potential to adversely affect Vicarious Surgical’s business, financial condition and results of operations; the impact of COVID-19 on Vicarious Surgical’s operations; and other risks and uncertainties identified from time to time in Vicarious Surgical’s filings with the SEC. Vicarious Surgical cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. Vicarious Surgical disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

SEE FINANCES HERE
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November 14, 2023
Fried mushrooms | GF | BoneCoach™ Recipes – BoneCoach™

Ready to elevate your basic mushroom recipe into a memorable, melt-in-your-mouth side dish?

This sautéed mushroom recipe makes a wonderful accompaniment that goes with a variety of main dishes.

Moreover, mushrooms are not only delicious, but they are also a source of important nutrients such as protein, fiber, vitamin D and selenium, which are important for bone health.

Combine it with your favorite source of organic protein and you have a simple, flavorful dinner.

Enjoy your meal!

SERVES: 2

TOTAL TIME: 10 minutes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon (15 ml) ghee or freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil

225 g mushrooms

1 shallot, finely chopped

1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) sea salt

1 clove garlic, minced

2 teaspoons (10 ml) fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

Directions

1) Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the ghee, mushrooms and shallot. Fry for 2 minutes and then add the salt. Continue cooking for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

2) Add the garlic and thyme and cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat and enjoy immediately!

Recipe created by BoneCoach™ Team Dietitian Amanda Natividad-Li, RD & Chef.

Medical disclaimer

The information shared above is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or nutritional therapy advice; it does not diagnose, treat or cure any disease or condition; it should not be used as a substitute or substitute for medical advice from physicians and trained medical professionals. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or are currently taking prescription medications, you should discuss any changes in your diet and lifestyle or possible use of nutritional supplements with your doctor. You should not stop prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.

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November 14, 2023
Hospital for Special Surgery and NCH Break Ground on New Orthopedics Center of Excellence in Southwest Florida

NAPLES, Fla., Nov. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) and NCH today officially broke ground on the Patty & Jay Baker Pavilion, marking the beginning of construction on the new HSS at NCH musculoskeletal ( MSK) center. Located on the campus of NCH North Naples Hospital, the center promises to provide unparalleled orthopedic care to Naples and Southwest Florida.

Today’s ceremony marks the start of construction that will result in a state-of-the-art facility on the NCH North Naples Hospital campus spanning more than 80,000 square feet. The center will offer outpatient and inpatient orthopedic services, including an ambulatory surgery center and imaging and rehabilitation services that will be jointly owned and managed with HSS. With the aim of funding this project primarily through private philanthropy, the new facility is expected to open to patients in early 2025.

“I am extremely proud to have helped bring HSS to our community,” said Jay Baker, Board Trustee at NCH, who, along with his wife Patty, committed a $20 million match grant intended for orthopedic services. “The new partnership with HSS at NCH is a testament to our commitment to world-class healthcare, and we are honored to have contributed to this transformative endeavor.”

Founded in 1863 and headquartered in New York City, HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center specializing in musculoskeletal health. HSS has been recognized as one of the top-rated hospitals in both orthopedics and rheumatology for 31 years in a row. 1 in orthopedics worldwide for the past four years by Newsweek and nationally since 2010 by US News & World Report. They perform more than 35,000 orthopedic surgical procedures annually and consistently maintain the lowest complication and readmission rates for orthopedics in the country.

Last summer, HSS and NCH proudly announced the appointment of HSS renowned orthopedic trauma surgeon David L. Helfet, MD, as HSS Executive Medical Director at NCH. Although Dr. Helfet’s focus on orthopedic trauma has gained international recognition, he also specializes in hip disorders and is part of the Hip Preservation Service at HSS. He is consistently ranked as one of New York Magazine’s “Best Doctors in New York” and Castle Connolly’s “America’s Top Doctors.” Under the leadership of Dr. Helfet, HSS at NCH will bring expert orthopedic surgeons to the area to perform a wide range of state-of-the-art orthopedic procedures.

Thousands of Florida residents are among the patients from more than 100 countries and all 50 states who have visited New York City for treatment at the HSS main campus. With the groundbreaking development of the HSS at the NCH Center, these partners are one step closer to realizing their vision of bringing leading orthopedic care to the community without having to travel outside of Southwest Florida.

“This groundbreaking marks an important milestone in our quest to bring world-class orthopedic care to our community as NCH continues its journey to become an Advanced Community Healthcare System™,” said Paul Hiltz, President & CEO of NCH. “We are pleased to partner with HSS – the world leader in orthopedics – to make this high level of care available to our patients.”

“NCH and HSS are both patient-centered organizations committed to high-quality care, and we are aligned in our goal of making the highest quality orthopedic care more accessible to the people of Southwest Florida,” said Bryan T. Kelly, MD , MBA. “This is especially important to us at HSS, where we feel a great sense of responsibility not only to help more people, but also to consistently achieve the highest quality outcomes for patients.”

“This new center, made possible by Patty and Jay Baker, will ultimately shape the way world-class orthopedic care is delivered to this community for generations to come,” said Dr. Helfet. “We are building a world-class team of physicians, surgeons, nurses and more, from around the world and within this community.”

“Our growing team is already hard at work transferring and implementing HSS knowledge, standards and methods to achieve the highest quality clinical care and patient experience in the world right here in Southwest Florida,” added Dr. Helfet.

All donations to support orthopedic services at NCH will be matched by the $20 million grant pledged by the Bakers. For more information about how you can support HSS at NCH and become part of this historic partnership, please contact the NCH Center for Philanthropy at 239-624-2000.

About NCH

NCH is a locally governed nonprofit organization and Advanced Community Health System™ based in Naples, Florida. The system consists of more than just two hospitals (called NCH Baker Hospital and NCH North Hospital) with a total of 713 beds. NCH is an alliance of 775 physicians and medical facilities in dozens of locations throughout Southwest Florida that provides nationally recognized, high-quality health care to our community. Our mission is to help everyone live longer, happier and healthier lives. For more information, visit www.NCHmd.org.

About HSS

HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is the Hospital for Special Surgery, ranked #1 nationally in orthopedics (for the 14th year in a row), #2 in rheumatology by US News & World Report (2023-2024), and the top pediatric orthopedic hospital in New York. NJ and CT by US News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2023-2024). In a survey of medical professionals in more than twenty countries by Newsweek, HSS ranks first in the world in orthopedics for the fourth year in a row (2024). Founded in 1863, the hospital has the lowest readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and one of the lowest infection and complication rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. HSS, an affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as on the east coast of Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS is a leader in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute consists of 20 laboratories and 300 employees focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through the prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Innovation Institute works to realize the potential of new medicines, therapies and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, paramedics, academic trainees and consumers in more than 165 countries. The institution collaborates with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. http://www.hss.edu.

SOURCE Hospital for Special Surgery

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November 13, 2023
2024-2025 – Rush Research Fellowship – Orthopedic Oncology

Prerequisites for the position include:

– Ability to start on campus within the recommended time frame

– Successful completion of the third year before start date

– Strong motivation for a career in orthopedic surgery

– Clear interest in research and a strong academic record

– MUST be extremely organized and detailed

– MUST have strong communication skills

– MUST be able to work self-directed and independently

– MUST be able to work efficiently with clinical staff and a multidisciplinary team

– Experience with statistical analysis and/or coding is highly recommended

Fellowship responsibilities include:

– Coordination of all (30+) research projects of the principal investigator, including both clinical and basic science studies.

– Maintaining weekly surgical case logs and enrolling patients in the research database.

– Drawing up/delivering/updating protocols within the IRB.

– Participate in biweekly research meetings with Dr. Blank, as well as weekly resident education and multidisciplinary Sarcoma conferences.

– Presentation of weekly project updates at the above-mentioned conferences.

– Data entry into EMR platforms and uploading procedural documents to electronic platforms.

– Collection of intraoperative data and follow-up of patients in the clinic and/or by telephone.

– Analysis of data from internal or national databases using statistical software (can access SPSS and STATA).

– Drafting/editing/producing manuscripts, abstracts and book chapters on orthopedic oncology/orthopedic surgery, along with preparing posters/presentations for conferences.

– Interface and coordination of projects with attendees, fellows, residents and students.

Benefits of the position:

– The fellow can expect to have more than 10 papers/abstracts/presentations accepted or already published by the end of the research year.

– Improve competitiveness for a residency position in orthopedic surgery. This will be the second year of this position.

– Opportunities to collaborate with tumor researchers, orthopedic residents and other Rush employees.

– Opportunities to observe surgical procedures and master orthopedic assessments in the clinic.

– Opportunities to attend orthopedic grand rounds, tumor conferences, journal clubs and cadaver laboratories

– Opportunities to present research at national conferences on orthopedic surgery and oncology.

-Dr. Blank fully expects that his research colleague will make a match in the field of Orthopedic Surgery at one of their preferred programs and assist the candidate during the matching process.

Interested applicants should send the following items to our research team at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Subject: Research grant – Last name, first name

Starting date

A short motivation letter describing your interest

An essay of less than 200 words outlining the interest in Rush

Resume with USMLE Step 1 score (and Step 2 scores, if available)

Internal medicine and surgery shelf scores (if available)

The application deadline is January 30, 2024. Applicants will be contacted shortly afterwards for a video interview.

Thank you for your interest in this position.

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November 13, 2023
Steadmon Philippon Research Fellow Internship 2024
In the study design phase, the associate conducts literature reviews to identify unanswered clinical questions, participates in team meetings (with bioengineers and orthopedic surgeons) to design studies, and assist in submitting project grants for funding. In the testing phase, the employee works with orthopedic surgeons to prepare and dissect the samples, and with biomedical engineers to perform the tests. After testing, the associate helps interpret data, write manuscripts, and submit to leading orthopedic conferences and journals. Research Fellow Interns can also assist with project logistics, such as scheduling test days, acquiring specimens that meet inclusion criteria, and managing surgical equipment inventory to ensure we have everything we need for test days. The employee may be working on multiple projects at the same time, so time management is an essential skill. In addition to their work in the BME department, Research Fellow trainees are encouraged to shadow resident surgeons in the operating room and assist clinical fellows in the surgical skills laboratory. There are also opportunities for collaboration with the Imaging, Regenerative Medicine and Clinical Outcomes departments.

Two positions are available for a period of one year. Estimated start date May 2024 (some flexibility). The job interviews start at the end of December. This is a paid Research Fellow internp for $20 per hour and an allowance of $500 per month for rent with proof of lease agreement. Insurance package available.

Requirements
- Minimum 3 years of medical training (or equivalent anatomical and surgical knowledge)
- Experience with cadaver dissection required
- Previous research experience – preferably in orthopedics
- Excellent interpersonal communication and organizational skills
- Excellent written English
- Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States for one year.
Join our team at the Steadman Philippon Research Institute (SPRI) by visiting our website and Apply today at: https://recruiting.paylocity.com/Recruiting/Jobs/Details/2036487
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November 13, 2023
Food allergies may be linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, research shows

Sensitivity to common food allergens such as dairy and peanuts could be a major and previously unappreciated cause of heart disease, new research suggests – and the increased risk of cardiovascular disease extends to people without obvious food allergies.

Dairy and common foods like peanuts may be a major and previously underappreciated cause of heart disease, new research suggests – and the increased risk of cardiovascular disease includes even people without apparent food allergies. Image credits: UVA Health

That increased risk could equal or even exceed the risks of smoking, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, the researchers report.

UVA Health scientists and their collaborators looked at thousands of adults over time and found that people who produced antibodies in response to dairy and other foods were at increased risk for cardiovascular disease. This was true even when traditional risk factors for heart disease, such as smoking, high blood pressure and diabetes, were taken into account. The strongest association was for cow’s milk, but other allergens such as peanuts and shrimp were also significant.

The disturbing finding represents the first time that ‘IgE’ antibodies against common foods have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular death, the researchers report. The findings do not conclusively prove that food antibodies cause the increased risk, but the work builds on previous studies that linked allergic inflammation and heart disease.

About 15% of adults produce IgE antibodies in response to cow’s milk, peanuts and other foods. Although these antibodies cause some people to develop severe food allergies, many adults who produce these antibodies do not have an overt food allergy. The new research found that the strongest link with cardiovascular death was in people who had the antibodies but continued to consume the food regularly – suggesting they did not have a severe food allergy.

“What we were looking at here was the presence of IgE antibodies to food that were detected in blood samples,” says researcher Jeffrey Wilson, MD, PhD, an allergy and immunology expert at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. “We don’t think most of these subjects actually had a food allergy. So our story is more about an otherwise silent immune response to food. While these reactions may not be strong enough to cause acute allergic reactions to food, they can still cause inflammation and over time lead to problems such as heart disease.”

Unexpected findings about food allergy

The researchers were inspired to explore the possibility that common food allergies could harm the heart after members of the UVA team previously linked an unusual form of food allergy, spread by ticks, to heart disease. That allergy, first identified by Thomas Platts-Mills, MD, PhD of UVA, is transmitted by the bite of the lone star tick, found across much of the country.

The allergy – commonly incorrectly called the ‘red meat allergy’ – makes people sensitive to a certain sugar, alpha-gal, found in mammalian meat. The symptomatic form of the allergy, known as “alphagal syndrome,” can cause hives, stomach upset and breathing difficulties – even potentially fatal anaphylaxis – three to eight hours after affected people eat beef or pork. (Poultry and fish don’t contain the sugar, so won’t cause a reaction.)

To see whether other food allergies might affect the heart, a team including Wilson, Platts-Mills and collaborators at UVA, as well as Corinne Keet, MD, PhD, of the University of North Carolina, reviewed data collected from 5,374 participants in the National Health and Examination Survey (NHANES) and the Wake Forest site of the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). Of those people, 285 had died from cardiovascular causes.

Among NHANES participants, IgE antibodies against at least one food were associated with a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular death, the researchers found. This was especially true for people who are sensitive to milk, a finding that also held true among the MESA participants. Additional analysis also identified peanut and shrimp sensitization as significant risk factors for cardiovascular death in individuals who ate them routinely.

“We previously noted a link between allergic antibodies to the alpha-gal red meat allergen and heart disease,” Wilson explained. “That finding is supported by a larger study in Australia, but the current paper suggests that a link between allergic antibodies to food allergens and heart disease is not limited to alpha-gal. In some ways this is a surprising finding. On the other hand, we are not aware of anyone having looked before.”

Allergies and the heart

Although this is the first time that allergic antibodies to common foods have been linked to cardiovascular death, other allergic conditions – such as asthma and the itchy rash known as eczema or atopic dermatitis – have previously been identified as risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

The researchers speculate that allergic antibodies to food may affect the heart by leading to the activation of specialized cells called mast cells. Mast cells in the skin and intestines are known to contribute to classic allergic reactions, but they are also found in cardiac blood vessels and tissue. Continued activation of mast cells can cause inflammation, contributing to the formation of harmful plaques that can cause heart attacks or other heart damage, the researchers think.

However, the scientists emphasize that this is not yet certain. It is possible that other genetic or environmental factors play a role. It’s even possible that cardiovascular disease could increase the risk of food sensitization – meaning heart disease could increase the risk of food allergies, rather than the other way around – although the new results suggest this is unlikely.

The researchers call for further research to better understand the implications of their findings before recommending changes in the way doctors treat or manage food allergies.

This work raises the possibility that a blood test could help provide personalized information about a heart-healthy diet in the future. Although before that can be recommended, we still have a lot of work to do to understand these findings.”

Jeffrey Wilson, allergy and immunology expert, University of Virginia School of Medicine

Findings published

The researchers published their findings in the leading allergy journal, the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. The research team consisted of Keet, Emily McGowan, David Jacobs, Wendy Post, Nathan Richards, Lisa Workman, Platts-Mills, Ani Manichaikul and Wilson. Wilson and Platts-Mills have received support from Thermo-Fisher/Phadia; a full list of the authors’ disclosures is included in the article.

The research was supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease of the National Institutes of Health under grants 5U01AI125290, R37-AI20565, and R21AI151497; and by an AAAAI Foundation Faculty Development Award. A list of the funders of the MESA trial is available in the paper.

Source:

University of Virginia Health System

Magazine reference:

Keet, C., et al. (2023) IgE to common food allergens is associated with cardiovascular mortality in the National Health and Examination Survey and the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2023.09.038.

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November 13, 2023
2024-2025 Anderson Orthopedic Research Institute Clinical Research Fellowship

Prerequisites for the position include:

– Current enrollment in a medical school in the US

– Successful completion of the second year of medical school before the start date

– Strong motivation for a career in orthopedic surgery

– Ability to start on site within the recommended time frame

– Clear interest in research and a strong academic record

– Characteristics:

– Must be organized and detailed

– Able to work independently

– Able to perform tasks efficiently with clinical staff and multidisciplinary teams

Research responsibilities include:

– Coordination of the various research projects

– Give patients permission for research

– Follow-up of patients in the clinic or by telephone

– Administration of preoperative and postoperative research studies and examinations

– Data entry into EMR platforms and uploading research documents to electronic platforms

– Data analysis

– Register patients in the research database

– Maintaining weekly lists of surgical research cases

– Submission of protocols to the Institutional Review Board (IRB)

– Drafting/editing/producing manuscripts and summaries

– Preparation of posters/presentations for conferences

– Interface and coordinate projects with attendees, fellows and other research staff

Benefits of the position:

– Improved competitiveness for a residency position in Orthopedic Surgery

– Expect to have 10-15 papers/abstracts/presentations accepted by the end of the research year

– Opportunities to attend and present AORI research at national conferences

– Opportunities to collaborate with AORI visitors, fellows and other research staff

– Opportunities to observe surgical procedures and examine patients in the clinic

– Opportunities to attend weekly fellowship conferences

Interested applicants should send an email with the items below to AORI (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

1. A short cover letter describing your background and interest in the position

2. Resume with USMLE Step 1 (and Step 2 score if available)

The application deadline is January 30, 2024. Applications and offers are continuously extended. Selected candidates will be contacted shortly thereafter for a telephone/video interview. Thank you for your interest in this position.

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November 13, 2023
Knee Joint Damage
Knee Joint Damage: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Knee joint damage is a common condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age or activity level. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, overuse, and degenerative conditions like arthritis. Knee joint damage can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness, and can make it difficult to perform everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even standing up.

Common Causes of Knee Joint Damage include injury, overuse, and degenerative conditions like arthritis. Symptoms and Diagnosis of knee joint damage can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but may include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee joint. Treatment and Prevention options for knee joint damage may include rest, physical therapy, medication, and surgery, depending on the cause and severity of the condition. With proper care and treatment, many people are able to manage their knee joint damage and maintain an active lifestyle.

Key Takeaways
- Knee joint damage is a common condition that can be caused by injury, overuse, or degenerative conditions like arthritis.
- Symptoms of knee joint damage can include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee joint.
- Treatment options for knee joint damage may include rest, physical therapy, medication, and surgery, depending on the cause and severity of the condition.
Common Causes of Knee Joint Damage

Knee joint damage is a common problem that affects many people, especially as they get older. In this section, we will discuss some of the most common causes of knee joint damage.

Aging and Degeneration

As we age, the cartilage in our knee joint can wear down, leading to osteoarthritis. This is a degenerative condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knee joint.

Injury and Trauma

Injuries and trauma can also cause knee joint damage. Falls, tears, fractures, and dislocations can all lead to knee pain and instability. ACL injuries, tendon tears, and meniscus tears are also common knee injuries.

Sports and Exercise

Certain sports and exercises can put a lot of stress on the knee joint, leading to damage. Activities like running, soccer, basketball, and skiing can all cause knee injuries. Patellar tendinitis and iliotibial band syndrome are also common sports-related knee injuries.

Health Conditions

Some health conditions can also contribute to knee joint damage. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can cause inflammation and damage to the knee joint. Gout and septic arthritis are other health conditions that can affect the knee joint.

Obesity and Overuse

Being overweight or obese can put extra stress on the knee joint, leading to damage. Overuse can also cause knee joint damage, especially if you participate in activities that involve repetitive motions.

Other Causes

Other causes of knee joint damage include osteoporosis, obvious deformity, weakness, and instability. These factors can all contribute to knee pain and discomfort.

In summary, knee joint damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, injury, sports and exercise, health conditions, obesity, and overuse. Understanding these common causes can help you take steps to prevent knee joint damage and protect your knee health.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Recognizing Symptoms

If you have knee joint damage, you may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, inflammation, stiffness, and limited range of motion. In some cases, you may also notice redness around the affected area. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention.

Medical Diagnosis

When you visit your doctor, they will conduct a physical exam and ask you questions about your symptoms. They may also recommend imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI to get a better look at the affected area.

X-rays can help identify any bone damage, while an MRI can provide more detailed information about the soft tissues in your knee joint. Your doctor may also order blood tests to check for signs of infection or inflammation.

Once your doctor has evaluated your symptoms and test results, they can make a diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan. It is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations closely to ensure the best possible outcome.

Treatment and Prevention

When it comes to knee joint damage, there are various treatment and prevention strategies that can be employed to alleviate symptoms and prevent further injury. In this section, we will discuss some of the most effective approaches to treating and preventing knee joint damage.

Conservative Treatments

Conservative treatments are non-invasive interventions that aim to reduce pain and swelling, and promote healing. These treatments may include:
- Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the knee joint can help reduce pain and promote healing.
- Ice: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and pain.
- Compression: Wrapping the knee joint with an elastic bandage can help reduce swelling and provide support.
- Elevation: Elevating the affected leg can help reduce swelling and improve blood flow.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help develop a customized exercise program to improve strength and flexibility in the affected knee joint.
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Surgical Interventions

In some cases, conservative treatments may not be enough to alleviate symptoms of knee joint damage. In these instances, surgical interventions may be necessary. Some common surgical interventions for knee joint damage include:
- Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a small camera into the knee joint to diagnose and treat the problem.
- Knee replacement: A surgical procedure that involves replacing the damaged knee joint with an artificial joint.
Prevention Strategies

Prevention is key when it comes to knee joint damage. Some effective prevention strategies include:
- Exercise: Regular exercise can help improve strength and flexibility in the knee joint, reducing the risk of injury.
- Stretching: Stretching before and after exercise can help improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.
- Use of knee braces: Wearing a knee brace during physical activity can help provide support and prevent injury.
- Avoiding high-impact activities: Activities such as running and jumping can put excessive stress on the knee joint, increasing the risk of injury.
Role of Healthcare Providers

Healthcare providers play a critical role in the treatment and prevention of knee joint damage. They can provide guidance on effective treatment strategies, monitor progress, and make recommendations for further interventions if necessary. If you are experiencing symptoms of knee joint damage, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to develop an effective treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common causes of knee joint damage?

There are several common causes of knee joint damage, including injuries from sports or physical activities, repetitive strain on the knee joint, and aging. Other factors that can contribute to knee joint damage include obesity, arthritis, and genetic predisposition.

What are the symptoms of a meniscus tear in the knee?

Some common symptoms of a meniscus tear in the knee include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee. Other symptoms may include a popping or clicking sensation in the knee, or the feeling that the knee is giving way or locking up.

How can knee joint damage be treated?

Treatment for knee joint damage depends on the severity of the injury and the underlying cause. Some common treatments include rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery.

What are some exercises to help alleviate knee pain?

Low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, and yoga can help alleviate knee pain by strengthening the muscles that support the knee joint. Other exercises that can help alleviate knee pain include leg lifts, hamstring curls, and squats.

What are the effects of permanent knee damage?

Permanent knee damage can have a significant impact on a person’s mobility and quality of life. Depending on the severity of the damage, it may be difficult to walk or engage in physical activities, and chronic pain and stiffness may be a constant issue.

What are some home remedies for knee pain relief?

Some home remedies for knee pain relief include applying ice or heat to the affected area, taking over-the-counter pain medications, and using topical creams or ointments. Other remedies may include rest, gentle stretching and exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the knee joint.
November 13, 2023