Qualitative assessment of provider approaches to dilation following vaginoplasty.

Study Objective: Most surgical vaginoplasties are followed post-operatively, when age appropriate, by patient-led dilation to maintain patency, but there is a lack of both standardized protocols and research comparing dilation practices within and across surgical routes. This study's objective is to determine surgeon attitudes about dilation and learn what protocols they use and endorse to take steps towards addressing the literature gap around dilation practices and outcomes.

Methods: We performed semi-structured interviews with ten providers (nine surgeons, one nurse) involved in vaginoplasty at a single tertiary care children's hospital about their dilation practices.

Nisin Inhibition of Gram-Negative Bacteria.

This study investigates the activity of the broad-spectrum bacteriocin nisin against a large panel of Gram-negative bacterial isolates, including relevant plant, animal, and human pathogens. The aim is to generate supportive evidence towards the use/inclusion of bacteriocin-based therapeutics and open avenues for their continued development. Nisin inhibitory activity was screened against a panel of 575 strains of Gram-negative bacteria, encompassing 17 genera.