Search

Bacteriophages (or phages) represent a persistent threat to the success and reliability of food fermentation processes. Recent reports of phages that infect Streptococcus thermophilus have highlighted the diversification of phages of this species. Phages of S. thermophilus typically exhibit a narrow range, a feature that is suggestive of diverse receptor moieties being presented on the cell surface of the host. Cell wall polysaccharides, including rhamnose-glucose polysaccharides and exopolysaccharides have been implicated as being involved in the initial interactions with several phages of this species. Following internalization of the phage genome, the host presents several defences, including CRISPR-Cas and restriction and modification systems to limit phage proliferation. This review provides a current and holistic view of the interactions of phages and their S. thermophilus host cells and how this has influenced the diversity and evolution of both entities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Standardized tests and outcome measures (STOM) have not been consistently implemented as part of most physical therapists' practice. Incidence of STOM use among physical therapists at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center was similar to low levels cited nationally among acute care physical therapists. Targeted knowledge translation (KT) strategies have been suggested to promote the application of research evidence into clinical decision making. Purpose. The purpose of this quality improvement (QI) effort was to implement a series of interventions aimed at increasing both use and interpretation of STOM by physical therapists practicing in acute care. Design. This study used an observational longitudinal design. Methods. A literature review identified current barriers and facilitators to the use of STOM by physical therapists. KT strategies were tailored to the practice setting in order to target barriers and promote facilitators to the use of STOM. Data were collected through retrospective chart review at baseline and then subsequently at 4 periods following the implementation of the QI project. Results. A statistically significant increase in both the use (primary outcome) and interpretation (secondary outcome) of STOM was observed following the implementation of KT strategies. The increase was sustained at all subsequent measurement periods. Limitations. Limitations include the lack of a control group and the small number of setting- and diagnosis-specific STOM available for use by physical therapists practicing in acute care. Conclusions. Implementation of KT strategies was associated with an increase in the frequency of use and interpretation of STOM. Similar QI efforts are feasible in any acute care physical therapy department and potentially other settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]