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Purpose: The most recent international guideline on inguinal hernia management recommends a short convalescence after repair. However, surgeons’ recommendations may vary. The objective of this study was to give an overview of the current convalescence recommendations in the literature subdivided on the Lichtenstein and laparoscopic inguinal hernia repairs. Methods: In this systematic review, three databases were searched in August 2021 to identify studies on inguinal hernia repairs with a statement about postoperative convalescence recommendations. The outcome was convalescence recommendations subdivided on daily activities, light work, heavy lifting, and sport. Results: In total, 91 studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria, and 50 and 58 studies reported about convalescence recommendations after Lichtenstein and laparoscopic repairs, respectively. Patients were instructed with a wide range of convalescence recommendations. A total of 34 Lichtenstein studies and 35 laparoscopic studies recommended resumption of daily activities as soon as possible. Following Lichtenstein repairs, the patients were instructed to resume light work after median 0 days (interquartile range (IQR) 0–0), heavy lifting after 42 days (IQR 14–42), and sport after 7 days (IQR 0–29). Following laparoscopic procedures, the patients were instructed to resume light work after median 0 days (IQR 0–0), heavy lifting after 14 days (IQR 10–28), and sport after 12 days (IQR 7–23). Conclusion: This study revealed a broad spectrum of convalescence recommendations depending on activity level following inguinal hernia repair, which likely reflects a lack of high-quality evidence within this field.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major public health problem. Here, we developed a novel model of non-invasive TBI induced by laser irradiation in the telencephalon of adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) and assessed their behavior and neuromorphology to validate the model and evaluate potential targets for neuroreparative treatment. Overall, TBI induced hypolocomotion and anxiety-like behavior in the novel tank test, strikingly recapitulating responses in mammalian TBI models, hence supporting the face validity of our model. NeuN-positive cell staining was markedly reduced one day, but not seven days, after TBI, suggesting increased neuronal damage immediately after the injury, and its fast recovery. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) level in the brain dropped immediately after the trauma, but fully recovered seven days later. A marker of microglial activation, Iba1, was elevated in the TBI brain, albeit decreasing from Day 3. The levels of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (Hif1a) increased 30 min after the injury, and recovered by Day 7, further supporting the construct validity of the model. Collectively, these findings suggest that our model of laser-induced brain injury in zebrafish reproduces mild TBI and can be a useful tool for TBI research and preclinical neuroprotective drug screening. © 2022 by the authors.

Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) represent an emerging global crisis. However, quantifiable risk factors for PASC and their biological associations are poorly resolved. We executed a deep multi-omic, longitudinal investigation of 309 COVID-19 patients from initial diagnosis to convalescence (2-3 months later), integrated with clinical data and patient-reported symptoms. We resolved four PASC-anticipating risk factors at the time of initial COVID-19 diagnosis: type 2 diabetes, SARS-CoV-2 RNAemia, Epstein-Barr virus viremia, and specific auto-antibodies. In patients with gastrointestinal PASC, SARS-CoV-2-specific and CMV-specific CD8+ T cells exhibited unique dynamics during recovery from COVID-19. Analysis of symptom-associated immunological signatures revealed coordinated immunity polarization into four endotypes, exhibiting divergent acute severity and PASC. We find that immunological associations between PASC factors diminish over time, leading to distinct convalescent immune states. Detectability of most PASC factors at COVID-19 diagnosis emphasizes the importance of early disease measurements for understanding emergent chronic conditions and suggests PASC treatment strategies.

CD8+ T cells can potentiate long-lived immunity against COVID-19. We screened longitudinally-sampled convalescent human donors against SARS-CoV-2 tetramers and identified a participant with an immunodominant response against residues 322 to 311 of nucleocapsid (Nuc322-331), a peptide conserved in all variants of concern reported to date. We conducted 38-parameter cytometry by time of flight on tetramer-identified Nuc322-331-specific CD8+ T cells and on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells recognizing the entire nucleocapsid and spike proteins, and took 32 serological measurements. We discovered a coordination of the Nuc322-331-specific CD8+ T response with both the CD4+ T cell and Ab pillars of adaptive immunity. Over the approximately six month period of convalescence monitored, we observed a slow and progressive decrease in the activation state and polyfunctionality of Nuc322-331-specific CD8+ T cells, accompanied by an increase in their lymph node-homing and homeostatic proliferation potential. These results suggest that following a typical case of mild COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2-specific CD8+ T cells not only persist but continuously differentiate in a coordinated fashion well into convalescence into a state characteristic of long-lived, self-renewing memory.

To investigate the evolution of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the immune population, we coincupi bated the authentic virus with a highly neutralizing plasma from a COVID-19 convalescent patient. The plasma fully neutralized the virus for seven passages, but, after 45 d, the deletion of F140 in the spike N-terminal domain (NTD) N3 loop led to partial breakthrough. At day 73, an E484K substitution in the receptor-binding domain (RBD) occurred, followed, at day 80, by an insertion in the NTD N5 loop containing a new glycan sequon, which generated a variant completely resistant to plasma neutralization. Computational modeling predicts that the deletion and insertion in loops N3 and N5 prevent binding of neutralizing antibodies. The recent emergence in the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, and Japan of natural variants with similar changes suggests that SARS-CoV-2 has the potential to escape an effective immune response and that vaccines and antibodies able to control emerging variants should be developed.

This thesis concerns six Swedish paintings depicting sick or convalescent individuals; Richard Bergh’s Konvalescent (unfinished, 1886), Flickan och Döden (1888), Eva Bonnier’s Magdalena (1887), Gustaf Magnusson’s Konvalescent (1933), Jenny Nyström’s Konvalescenten (1884), and Georg Pauli’s Vid sjukbädden (1885). The purpose of this study is to examine how sickness is portrayed and staged using performative theory and visual semiotics. The thesis takes into account that tuberculosis, being a widespread disease during the 18th and 19th Century, made it a topic of exploration in the contemporary art. With this as the framework the thesis examines whether or not it is possible to diagnose the depicted individuals. The results shows that sickness first and foremost is portrayed and staged in signs regarding the body: the face, the hands, and how the body is posed. Lastly, it is suggested that these artworks can be seen as cultural symbols of TB, since not being viable for a strictly medicinal diagnosis they are more the result of the contemporary need to examine TB and its effects on society and culture. The paintings becomes – such as a body is a vessel for a disease – vessels for the disease culturally speaking.

Introduction and importance: Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is an uncommon cause of longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis (LETM). It usually presents with vague congestive myelopathy symptoms and diagnosis is usually difficult on initial presentation. Common daily neurological interventions can aggravate the underlying pathophysiology leading to undesirable acute neurological deterioration. Intravenous steroids administration and lumbar (LP) puncture as a diagnostic tool are amongst the most commonly reported aggravating interventions. This rare case presentation highlights this association with its negative impact on the patient outcome in misdiagnosed cases. Case presentation: The authors present a sixty-eight-year-old male with paraplegia following steroid administration and LP for presumed inflammatory/autoimmune LETM in the setting of misdiagnosed SDAVF. The absence of flow voids on the conventional T2-weighted magnetic resonance image (MRI) lead to misdiagnosis. He had satisfactory neurological recovery few hours after surgical disconnection. Clinical discussion: SDAVF is known to cause congestive myelopathy symptoms. Spinal angiogram is the gold standard for diagnosis. Although the exact mechanism is not fully understood, misdiagnosed cases like our case can develop severe neurological deterioration with steroid administration and lumbar puncture. Conclusion(s): Although SDAVF is an uncommon cause of LETM, Clinicians should carefully exclude it before proceeding to steroid administration or performing LP as they can lead to devastating neurological deterioration.Copyright © 2021

Introduction and importance: Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is an uncommon cause of longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis (LETM). It usually presents with vague congestive myelopathy symptoms and diagnosis is usually difficult on initial presentation. Common daily neurological interventions can aggravate the underlying pathophysiology leading to undesirable acute neurological deterioration. Intravenous steroids administration and lumbar (LP) puncture as a diagnostic tool are amongst the most commonly reported aggravating interventions. This rare case presentation highlights this association with its negative impact on the patient outcome in misdiagnosed cases. Case presentation: The authors present a sixty-eight-year-old male with paraplegia following steroid administration and LP for presumed inflammatory/autoimmune LETM in the setting of misdiagnosed SDAVF. The absence of flow voids on the conventional T2-weighted magnetic resonance image (MRI) lead to misdiagnosis. He had satisfactory neurological recovery few hours after surgical disconnection. Clinical discussion: SDAVF is known to cause congestive myelopathy symptoms. Spinal angiogram is the gold standard for diagnosis. Although the exact mechanism is not fully understood, misdiagnosed cases like our case can develop severe neurological deterioration with steroid administration and lumbar puncture. Conclusion(s): Although SDAVF is an uncommon cause of LETM, Clinicians should carefully exclude it before proceeding to steroid administration or performing LP as they can lead to devastating neurological deterioration.Copyright © 2021

This thesis concerns six Swedish paintings depicting sick or convalescent individuals; Richard Bergh’s Konvalescent (unfinished, 1886), Flickan och Döden (1888), Eva Bonnier’s Magdalena (1887), Gustaf Magnusson’s Konvalescent (1933), Jenny Nyström’s Konvalescenten (1884), and Georg Pauli’s Vid sjukbädden (1885). The purpose of this study is to examine how sickness is portrayed and staged using performative theory and visual semiotics. The thesis takes into account that tuberculosis, being a widespread disease during the 18th and 19th Century, made it a topic of exploration in the contemporary art. With this as the framework the thesis examines whether or not it is possible to diagnose the depicted individuals. The results shows that sickness first and foremost is portrayed and staged in signs regarding the body: the face, the hands, and how the body is posed. Lastly, it is suggested that these artworks can be seen as cultural symbols of TB, since not being viable for a strictly medicinal diagnosis they are more the result of the contemporary need to examine TB and its effects on society and culture. The paintings becomes – such as a body is a vessel for a disease – vessels for the disease culturally speaking.

Background. Declining humoral immunity in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients and possible reinfection have raised concern. Mucosal immunity, particularly salivary antibodies, may be short lived although long-term studies are lacking. Methods. Using a multiplex bead-based array platform, we investigated antibodies specific to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) proteins in 256 saliva samples from convalescent patients 1-9 months after symptomatic COVID-19 (n = 74, cohort 1), undiagnosed individuals with self-reported questionnaires (n = 147, cohort 2), and individuals sampled prepandemic (n = 35, cohort 3). Results. Salivary IgG antibody responses in cohort 1 (mainly mild COVID-19) were detectable up to 9 months postrecovery, with high correlations between spike and nucleocapsid specificity. At 9 months, IgG remained in blood and saliva in most patients. Salivary IgA was rarely detected at this time point. In cohort 2, salivary IgG and IgA responses were significantly associated with recent history of COVID-19-like symptoms. Salivary IgG tolerated temperature and detergent pretreatments. Conclusions. Unlike SARS-CoV-2 salivary IgA that appeared short lived, specific saliva IgG appeared stable even after mild COVID-19, as for blood serology. This noninvasive saliva-based SARS-CoV-2 antibody test with home self-collection may be a complementary alternative to conventional blood serology., Correction in Journal of Infectious Diseases, vol. 227, issue. 4, pages 603. DOI:10.1093/infdis/jiac121, Scopus:2-s2.0-85158911277QC 20210929

Understanding adaptive immunity to SARS-CoV-2 is important for vaccine development, interpreting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pathogenesis, and calibration of pandemic control measures. Using HLA class I and II predicted peptide "megapools," circulating SARS-CoV-2-specific CD8+ and CD4+ T cells were identified in ∼70% and 100% of COVID-19 convalescent patients, respectively. CD4+ T cell responses to spike, the main target of most vaccine efforts, were robust and correlated with the magnitude of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA titers. The M, spike, and N proteins each accounted for 11%-27% of the total CD4+ response, with additional responses commonly targeting nsp3, nsp4, ORF3a, and ORF8, among others. For CD8+ T cells, spike and M were recognized, with at least eight SARS-CoV-2 ORFs targeted. Importantly, we detected SARS-CoV-2-reactive CD4+ T cells in ∼40%-60% of unexposed individuals, suggesting cross-reactive T cell recognition between circulating "common cold" coronaviruses and SARS-CoV-2.

Introduction: Mild cognitive impairment is considered a precursor to dementia and significantly impacts upon quality of life. The prevalence of mild cognitive impairment is higher in the post-surgical cardiac population than in the general population, with older age and comorbidities further increasing the risk of cognitive decline. Exercise improves neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity and inflammatory and neurotrophic factor pathways, which may help to augment the effects of cognitive decline. However, the effects of resistance training on cognitive, functional and overall patient-reported recovery have not been investigated in the surgical cardiac population. This study aims to determine the effect of early moderate-intensity resistance training, compared to standard care, on cognitive recovery following cardiac surgery via a median sternotomy. The safety, feasibility and effect on functional recovery will also be examined. Method(s): This study will be a prospective, pragmatic, pilot randomised controlled trial comparing a standard care group (low-intensity aerobic exercise) and a moderate-intensity resistance training group. Participants aged 18 years and older with coronary artery and/or valve disease requiring surgical intervention will be recruited pre-operatively and randomised 1:1 to either the resistance training or standard care group post-operatively. The primary outcome, cognitive function, will be assessed using the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale and cognitive subscale. Secondary measures include safety, feasibility, muscular strength, physical function, multiple-domain quality of recovery, dynamic balance and patient satisfaction. Assessments will be conducted at baseline (pre-operatively) and post-operatively at 2 weeks, 8 weeks, 14 weeks and 6 months. Discussion(s): The results of this pilot study will be used to determine the feasibility of a future large-scale randomised controlled trial that promotes the integration of early resistance traini

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the shortened version of the Functional Difficulties Questionnaire (FDQ). DESIGN: This is a multisite observational study. SETTING: The study was conducted in four tertiary care hospitals in Australia. SUBJECTS: A total of 225 participants, following cardiac surgery, were involved in the study. INTERVENTION: Participants completed the original 13-item FDQ and other measures of physical function, pain and health-related quality of life. METHOD(S): Item reduction was utilized to develop the shortened version. Reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), the smallest detectable change and Bland-Altman plots. The validity and responsiveness were evaluated using correlation. Anchor and distribution-based calculation was used to calculate the minimal clinical important difference (MCID). RESULT(S): Item reduction resulted in the creation of a 10-item shortened version of the questionnaire (FDQ-s). Within the cohort of cardiac surgery patient, the mean (SD) for the FDQ-s was 38.7 (19.61) at baseline; 15.5 (14.01) at four weeks and 7.9 (12.01) at threemonths. Validity: excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha>0.90) and fair-to-excellent construct validity (>0.4). Reliability: internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach's alpha > 0.8). The FDQ-s had excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.89-0.92). Strong responsiveness overtime was demonstrated with large effect sizes (Cohen's d>1.0). The MCID of the FDQ-s was calculated between 4 and 10 out of 100(in cm). CONCLUSION(S): The FDQ-s demonstrated robust psychometric properties as a measurement tool of physical function of the thoracic region following cardiac surgery.

Introduction: Mild cognitive impairment is considered a precursor to dementia and significantly impacts upon quality of life. The prevalence of mild cognitive impairment is higher in the post-surgical cardiac population than in the general population, with older age and comorbidities further increasing the risk of cognitive decline. Exercise improves neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity and inflammatory and neurotrophic factor pathways, which may help to augment the effects of cognitive decline. However, the effects of resistance training on cognitive, functional and overall patient-reported recovery have not been investigated in the surgical cardiac population. This study aims to determine the effect of early moderate-intensity resistance training, compared to standard care, on cognitive recovery following cardiac surgery via a median sternotomy. The safety, feasibility and effect on functional recovery will also be examined. Method(s): This study will be a prospective, pragmatic, pilot randomised controlled trial comparing a standard care group (low-intensity aerobic exercise) and a moderate-intensity resistance training group. Participants aged 18 years and older with coronary artery and/or valve disease requiring surgical intervention will be recruited pre-operatively and randomised 1:1 to either the resistance training or standard care group post-operatively. The primary outcome, cognitive function, will be assessed using the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale and cognitive subscale. Secondary measures include safety, feasibility, muscular strength, physical function, multiple-domain quality of recovery, dynamic balance and patient satisfaction. Assessments will be conducted at baseline (pre-operatively) and post-operatively at 2 weeks, 8 weeks, 14 weeks and 6 months. Discussion(s): The results of this pilot study will be used to determine the feasibility of a future large-scale randomised controlled trial that promotes the integration of early resistance traini

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the shortened version of the Functional Difficulties Questionnaire (FDQ). DESIGN: This is a multisite observational study. SETTING: The study was conducted in four tertiary care hospitals in Australia. SUBJECTS: A total of 225 participants, following cardiac surgery, were involved in the study. INTERVENTION: Participants completed the original 13-item FDQ and other measures of physical function, pain and health-related quality of life. METHOD(S): Item reduction was utilized to develop the shortened version. Reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), the smallest detectable change and Bland-Altman plots. The validity and responsiveness were evaluated using correlation. Anchor and distribution-based calculation was used to calculate the minimal clinical important difference (MCID). RESULT(S): Item reduction resulted in the creation of a 10-item shortened version of the questionnaire (FDQ-s). Within the cohort of cardiac surgery patient, the mean (SD) for the FDQ-s was 38.7 (19.61) at baseline; 15.5 (14.01) at four weeks and 7.9 (12.01) at threemonths. Validity: excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha>0.90) and fair-to-excellent construct validity (>0.4). Reliability: internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach's alpha > 0.8). The FDQ-s had excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.89-0.92). Strong responsiveness overtime was demonstrated with large effect sizes (Cohen's d>1.0). The MCID of the FDQ-s was calculated between 4 and 10 out of 100(in cm). CONCLUSION(S): The FDQ-s demonstrated robust psychometric properties as a measurement tool of physical function of the thoracic region following cardiac surgery.

Understanding adaptive immunity to SARS-CoV-2 is important for vaccine development, interpreting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pathogenesis, and calibration of pandemic control measures. Using HLA class I and II predicted peptide "megapools," circulating SARS-CoV-2-specific CD8+ and CD4+ T cells were identified in ∼70% and 100% of COVID-19 convalescent patients, respectively. CD4+ T cell responses to spike, the main target of most vaccine efforts, were robust and correlated with the magnitude of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA titers. The M, spike, and N proteins each accounted for 11%-27% of the total CD4+ response, with additional responses commonly targeting nsp3, nsp4, ORF3a, and ORF8, among others. For CD8+ T cells, spike and M were recognized, with at least eight SARS-CoV-2 ORFs targeted. Importantly, we detected SARS-CoV-2-reactive CD4+ T cells in ∼40%-60% of unexposed individuals, suggesting cross-reactive T cell recognition between circulating "common cold" coronaviruses and SARS-CoV-2.

Traumatic brain injury damages white matter pathways that connect brain regions, disrupting transmission of electrochemical signals and causing cognitive and emotional dysfunction. Connectome-level mechanisms for how the brain compensates for injury have not been fully characterized. Here, we collected serial MRI-based structural and functional connectome metrics and neuropsychological scores in 26 mild traumatic brain injury subjects (29.4 ± 8.0 years, 20 males) at 1 and 6 months postinjury. We quantified the relationship between functional and structural connectomes using network diffusion (ND) model propagation time, a measure that can be interpreted as how much of the structural connectome is being utilized for the spread of functional activation, as captured via the functional connectome. Overall cognition showed significant improvement from 1 to 6 months (t25 = -2.15, p = .04). None of the structural or functional global connectome metrics was significantly different between 1 and 6 months, or when compared to 34 age- and gender-matched controls (28.6 ± 8.8 years, 25 males). We predicted longitudinal changes in overall cognition from changes in global connectome measures using a partial least squares regression model (cross-validated R2 = .27). We observe that increased ND model propagation time, increased structural connectome segregation, and increased functional connectome integration were related to better cognitive recovery. We interpret these findings as suggesting two connectome-based postinjury recovery mechanisms: one of neuroplasticity that increases functional connectome integration and one of remote white matter degeneration that increases structural connectome segregation. We hypothesize that our inherently multimodal measure of ND model propagation time captures the interplay between these two mechanisms.

Raoultella planticola (R. planticola) is a Gram-negative, aerobic, rod bacteria found in water and soil that has been on rare occasions associated with clinical infections. However, in recent years, there has been both an increase in the frequency and severity of R. planticola infections. We present the first case of Meckel's diverticulum perforation and peritonitis in a child associated with R. planticola infection and a systematic review of the paediatric literature. At present, in the paediatric population, R. planticola presents good susceptibility to a variety of antibiotics with the exception of ampicillin.Copyright © 2019 The Authors

Raoultella planticola (R. planticola) is a Gram-negative, aerobic, rod bacteria found in water and soil that has been on rare occasions associated with clinical infections. However, in recent years, there has been both an increase in the frequency and severity of R. planticola infections. We present the first case of Meckel's diverticulum perforation and peritonitis in a child associated with R. planticola infection and a systematic review of the paediatric literature. At present, in the paediatric population, R. planticola presents good susceptibility to a variety of antibiotics with the exception of ampicillin.Copyright © 2019 The Authors

Background: The quality of recovery-15 (QoR-15) is a patient-reported outcome measurement measuring QoR after surgery and anesthesia. The scale is arbitrary and ranges from 0 to 150. We aimed to classify the QoR-15 score into four severity classes; excellent, good, moderate, and poor recovery. Materials and methods: Data from one prospective observational cohort study and two randomized clinical trials were merged and comprised 276 adult patients with an American Society of Anesthesiologists class of I-III undergoing acute laparoscopic surgery for suspected appendicitis. Merged data were split into a “training” set and a “validation” set. Optimal cutoff points for classifying the QoR-15 into excellent, good, moderate, and poor recovery were identified in the “training” set. The four severity classes according to the QoR-15 score were validated in the “validation” set using prespecified hypotheses. Results: The QoR-15 scores for excellent, good, moderate, and poor recovery were 136-150, 122-135, 90-121, and 0-89, respectively. A better severity class of recovery based on the QoR-15 score measured repeatedly six times over 30 d was associated with an increased chance of resuming recreational and occupational activities (P < 0.001). Patients with a better severity class of recovery on the first postoperative day had a lower incidence of postoperative complications within 30 d of surgery (P = 0.001). Conclusions: After surgery and anesthesia, patients can be classified as being in poor, moderate, good, or excellent recovery based on the QoR-15 score.

This article outlines the effect of early mobilization on the long-term recovery of patients following critical illness. It investigates the safety of performing exercise in this environment, the differing types of rehabilitation that can be provided, and the gaps remaining in evidence around this area. It also attempts to assist clinicians in prescription of exercise in this cohort while informing all readers about the impact that mobilization can have for the outcomes of intensive care patients.Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc.

The objectives of this study were to characterize peri-operative echocardiographic (ECHO) assessments of right ventricular (RV) function and pulmonary hypertension (PH) and ascertain correlation with clinical outcomes in infants with left Bochdalek's hernia (LBH). This retrospective study in a quaternary neonatal intensive care unit involved electronic database search for infants with LBH during January 2009 to July 2017. Demographics, outcomes, and ECHO parameters were accessed from archived databases. Thirty-one infants with mean gestational age and birthweight (BW) 38.4 +/- 1.4 weeks and 3079 +/- 450 g were included. Postnatal age at surgery was 4.3 +/- 2 days. Two infants died before surgery (none after surgery). The survival rate in this cohort of late preterm and term infants with LBH not accompanied by congenital heart disease was 29/31 (93.5%). PH was noted in 28 (90%). Significant changes in biventricular function and pulmonary vascular haemodynamics were noted when reassessed after surgery [RV area change (%), 28 +/- 3 vs. 34 +/- 4, p = 0.007 and pulmonary artery capacitance (PAC) (ml3 x mmHg-1), 0.05 +/- 0.03 vs. 0.09 +/- 0.05, p = 0.02]. The median duration of all respiratory support in those who were operated was 14.7 days (8.5, 25). Significant correlations were noted between pre-operative ECHO assessments and the duration of respiratory support (tricuspid regurgitation, r = 0.63, p = 0.0001 and PAC, r = - 0.52, p = 0.004). Peri-operative functional ECHO provided information about the evolution of cardiac function in infants with LBH.Copyright © 2018, Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.

BACKGROUND: Comorbid conditions are important in health care. The best comorbidity index for predicting the impact of comorbidities on rehabilitation outcomes has not been determined. AIM: Compare the associations of comorbidity measured using the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and the Cumulative Index Rating Scale (CIRS) with key rehabilitation outcomes. Aim was to determine whether either of these comorbidity indices helped explain the variation in key rehabilitation outcomes. DESIGN: Prospective open-cohort study. SETTING: Inpatient rehabilitation ward, Melbourne, Australia. POPULATION: Adults admitted for inpatient rehabilitation (N.=280). METHODS: The main outcomes were demographic (e.g. age, gender, discharge destination) and clinical outcomes (reason for rehabilitation, length of stay, LOS, Functional Independence Measure, CCI and CIRS). A series of regression analyses were performed to determine the influence of comorbidity on three dependent variables: 1) LOS in rehabilitation; 2) the change in Functional Independence Measure-motor score between rehabilitation discharge and admission; 3) the discharge destination (home vs. other). RESULTS: The mean age was 57.7 years, there were slightly more females (51%), most (95%) patients previously lived at home with family or other relatives (63%). The most common reason for rehabilitation was orthopedic or other conditions (52%) and most (80%) people were discharged home. The median LOS was 27 days. There were 100 (35.7%) patients who had no comorbidity recorded using the CCI, 112 (40.0%) had one comorbidity and 26 (9.3%) who had three or more. All patients had at least one comorbidity recorded with the CIRS, and 264 (94.3%) had 3 or more comorbidities. There was little or no difference between the CCI or CIRS in terms of their ability to explain the variance in LOS (adjusted R2=0.38 with and without comorbidities), change in disability during rehabilitation (adjusted R2=0.31-0.33 with and without comorbidities) o

This article outlines the effect of early mobilization on the long-term recovery of patients following critical illness. It investigates the safety of performing exercise in this environment, the differing types of rehabilitation that can be provided, and the gaps remaining in evidence around this area. It also attempts to assist clinicians in prescription of exercise in this cohort while informing all readers about the impact that mobilization can have for the outcomes of intensive care patients.Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc.

The objectives of this study were to characterize peri-operative echocardiographic (ECHO) assessments of right ventricular (RV) function and pulmonary hypertension (PH) and ascertain correlation with clinical outcomes in infants with left Bochdalek's hernia (LBH). This retrospective study in a quaternary neonatal intensive care unit involved electronic database search for infants with LBH during January 2009 to July 2017. Demographics, outcomes, and ECHO parameters were accessed from archived databases. Thirty-one infants with mean gestational age and birthweight (BW) 38.4 +/- 1.4 weeks and 3079 +/- 450 g were included. Postnatal age at surgery was 4.3 +/- 2 days. Two infants died before surgery (none after surgery). The survival rate in this cohort of late preterm and term infants with LBH not accompanied by congenital heart disease was 29/31 (93.5%). PH was noted in 28 (90%). Significant changes in biventricular function and pulmonary vascular haemodynamics were noted when reassessed after surgery [RV area change (%), 28 +/- 3 vs. 34 +/- 4, p = 0.007 and pulmonary artery capacitance (PAC) (ml3 x mmHg-1), 0.05 +/- 0.03 vs. 0.09 +/- 0.05, p = 0.02]. The median duration of all respiratory support in those who were operated was 14.7 days (8.5, 25). Significant correlations were noted between pre-operative ECHO assessments and the duration of respiratory support (tricuspid regurgitation, r = 0.63, p = 0.0001 and PAC, r = - 0.52, p = 0.004). Peri-operative functional ECHO provided information about the evolution of cardiac function in infants with LBH.Copyright © 2018, Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.

BACKGROUND: Comorbid conditions are important in health care. The best comorbidity index for predicting the impact of comorbidities on rehabilitation outcomes has not been determined. AIM: Compare the associations of comorbidity measured using the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and the Cumulative Index Rating Scale (CIRS) with key rehabilitation outcomes. Aim was to determine whether either of these comorbidity indices helped explain the variation in key rehabilitation outcomes. DESIGN: Prospective open-cohort study. SETTING: Inpatient rehabilitation ward, Melbourne, Australia. POPULATION: Adults admitted for inpatient rehabilitation (N.=280). METHODS: The main outcomes were demographic (e.g. age, gender, discharge destination) and clinical outcomes (reason for rehabilitation, length of stay, LOS, Functional Independence Measure, CCI and CIRS). A series of regression analyses were performed to determine the influence of comorbidity on three dependent variables: 1) LOS in rehabilitation; 2) the change in Functional Independence Measure-motor score between rehabilitation discharge and admission; 3) the discharge destination (home vs. other). RESULTS: The mean age was 57.7 years, there were slightly more females (51%), most (95%) patients previously lived at home with family or other relatives (63%). The most common reason for rehabilitation was orthopedic or other conditions (52%) and most (80%) people were discharged home. The median LOS was 27 days. There were 100 (35.7%) patients who had no comorbidity recorded using the CCI, 112 (40.0%) had one comorbidity and 26 (9.3%) who had three or more. All patients had at least one comorbidity recorded with the CIRS, and 264 (94.3%) had 3 or more comorbidities. There was little or no difference between the CCI or CIRS in terms of their ability to explain the variance in LOS (adjusted R2=0.38 with and without comorbidities), change in disability during rehabilitation (adjusted R2=0.31-0.33 with and without comorbidities) o

OBJECTIVE: The study investigated the effect of prehabilitation on the quality of life and function in patients having total knee replacement (TKR)/total hip replacement (THR). METHODS: A pilot randomized controlled trial with concealed allocation, assessor blinding, and intention-to-treat analysis was conducted. Sixty-four people undergoing elective lower-limb arthroplasty were included. Prehabilitation included one-hour twice-weekly sessions for at least three and a maximum of four weeks prior to surgery. Control participants did not complete any pre-surgical programs. Health utility and quality of life as measured by the EQ-5D-3L and the patient-specific functional scale were the primary outcomes measured before allocation and eight weeks post-operatively. RESULTS: No between-group differences were evident in health utility (main effect of the group -0.04 (95% Confidence Interval [CI] -0.16 to 0.08, p = 0.50) or patient-specific functional scale (main effect of the group -0.59 (95% CI -1.8 to 0.6, p = 0.73), but the group-by-joint interaction effects for the timed up and go (TUG) (7.6 (95% CI -0.9 to 16.1, p = 0.08)) and the EQ-5D VAS (-18.3 (95% CI -41.1 to 4.5), p = 0.11) were larger. Prehabilitation participants' knee flexion improved by 12.6 degrees (95% CI 5.2-20, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Prehabilitation improved knee flexion, but this did not translate into improved functional mobility or quality of life.

OBJECTIVE: The study investigated the effect of prehabilitation on the quality of life and function in patients having total knee replacement (TKR)/total hip replacement (THR). METHODS: A pilot randomized controlled trial with concealed allocation, assessor blinding, and intention-to-treat analysis was conducted. Sixty-four people undergoing elective lower-limb arthroplasty were included. Prehabilitation included one-hour twice-weekly sessions for at least three and a maximum of four weeks prior to surgery. Control participants did not complete any pre-surgical programs. Health utility and quality of life as measured by the EQ-5D-3L and the patient-specific functional scale were the primary outcomes measured before allocation and eight weeks post-operatively. RESULTS: No between-group differences were evident in health utility (main effect of the group -0.04 (95% Confidence Interval [CI] -0.16 to 0.08, p = 0.50) or patient-specific functional scale (main effect of the group -0.59 (95% CI -1.8 to 0.6, p = 0.73), but the group-by-joint interaction effects for the timed up and go (TUG) (7.6 (95% CI -0.9 to 16.1, p = 0.08)) and the EQ-5D VAS (-18.3 (95% CI -41.1 to 4.5), p = 0.11) were larger. Prehabilitation participants' knee flexion improved by 12.6 degrees (95% CI 5.2-20, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Prehabilitation improved knee flexion, but this did not translate into improved functional mobility or quality of life.

It has been generally recognised that sick children have an increased risk on malnutrition. An activated immune system requires more nutrients while illness is often associated with a lower absorption and decreased consumption because of lack of appetite. When these increased needs are not balanced with an adequate availability of nutrients, the sick child is at higher risk of developing malnutrition.Médecins Sans Frontières investigated the question whether this process is mitigated by simple short term nutritional supplementation given to sick children alongside medical treatment. Three Randomised Controlled Trials (RCT’s) were conducted. The first, in Democratic Republic of Congo, was a pilot; 180 children with malaria were randomised in 2 arms: 1 group receiving 2 weeks of ready to use therapeutic food (RUTF) and a control group. The children were followed for a period of 4 weeks. Children in the RUTF group showed a higher weight gain in the first 14 days compared to the control group, at day 28 the weight gain in both groups was similar.Thereafter, 2 RCT’s were implemented in Uganda and Nigeria using a similar methodology. Children with malaria, lower respiratory tract infection or diarrhoea (sample size of 2202) were randomised in three groups: supplemented with 2 weeks of RUTF, supplemented with 2 weeks of micronutrient powder (MNP), and not receiving supplementation after each disease episode. The incidence of malnutrition was compared after an observation period of 6 months. The trial in Uganda showed a reduction in malnutrition in the RUITF group with 31%, while in Nigeria, there was no significant reduction in the RUTF group. The MNP group did not show reduction in malnutrition in any site. In the group of moderate malnourished children the RUTF and MNP supplementations were not effective in preventing deterioration to severe malnutrition. However, when the studies were combined the RUTF group showed a lower mortality compared to the MNP group.Multi-varia, Doctorat en Santé Publique, info:eu-repo/semantics/nonPublished

Background: The kidney-brain interaction has been a topic of growing interest. Past studies of the effect of kidney function on intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) outcomes have yielded inconsistent findings. Although the second, main phase of the Intensive Blood Pressure Reduction in Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage Trial (INTERACT2) suggests the effectiveness of early intensive blood pressure (BP) lowering in improving functional recovery after ICH, the balance of potential benefits and harms of this treatment in those with decreased kidney function remains uncertain. Study Design: Secondary analysis of INTERACT2, which randomly assigned patients with ICH with elevated systolic BP (SBP) to intensive (target SBP < 140 mm Hg) or contemporaneous guideline-based (target SBP < 180 mm Hg) BP management. Setting & Participants: 2,823 patients from 144 clinical hospitals in 21 countries. Predictors Admission estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs) of patients were categorized into 3 groups based on the CKD-EPI (Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration) creatinine equation: normal or high, mildly decreased, and moderately to severely decreased (>90, 60-90, and <60 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively). Outcome(s): The effect of admission eGFR on the primary outcome of death or major disability at 90 days (defined as modified Rankin Scale scores of 3-6) was analyzed using a multivariable logistic regression model. Potential effect modification of intensive BP lowering treatment by admission eGFR was assessed by interaction terms. Result(s): Of 2,623 included participants, 912 (35%) and 280 (11%) had mildly and moderately/severely decreased eGFRs, respectively. Patients with moderately/severely decreased eGFRs had the greatest risk for death or major disability at 90 days (adjusted OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.28-2.61). Effects of early intensive BP lowering were consistent across different eGFRs (P = 0.5 for homogeneity). Limitation(s): Generalizability issues arising from a clinical tri

Background: The kidney-brain interaction has been a topic of growing interest. Past studies of the effect of kidney function on intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) outcomes have yielded inconsistent findings. Although the second, main phase of the Intensive Blood Pressure Reduction in Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage Trial (INTERACT2) suggests the effectiveness of early intensive blood pressure (BP) lowering in improving functional recovery after ICH, the balance of potential benefits and harms of this treatment in those with decreased kidney function remains uncertain. Study Design: Secondary analysis of INTERACT2, which randomly assigned patients with ICH with elevated systolic BP (SBP) to intensive (target SBP < 140 mm Hg) or contemporaneous guideline-based (target SBP < 180 mm Hg) BP management. Setting & Participants: 2,823 patients from 144 clinical hospitals in 21 countries. Predictors Admission estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs) of patients were categorized into 3 groups based on the CKD-EPI (Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration) creatinine equation: normal or high, mildly decreased, and moderately to severely decreased (>90, 60-90, and <60 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively). Outcome(s): The effect of admission eGFR on the primary outcome of death or major disability at 90 days (defined as modified Rankin Scale scores of 3-6) was analyzed using a multivariable logistic regression model. Potential effect modification of intensive BP lowering treatment by admission eGFR was assessed by interaction terms. Result(s): Of 2,623 included participants, 912 (35%) and 280 (11%) had mildly and moderately/severely decreased eGFRs, respectively. Patients with moderately/severely decreased eGFRs had the greatest risk for death or major disability at 90 days (adjusted OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.28-2.61). Effects of early intensive BP lowering were consistent across different eGFRs (P = 0.5 for homogeneity). Limitation(s): Generalizability issues arising from a clinical tri

Objective To determine the prevalence and burden of pain and activity limitations associated with retaining presurgery self-reported knee instability 6 months after total knee replacement (TKR) surgery and to identify early potentially modifiable risk factors for retaining knee instability in the operated knee after TKR surgery. Methods A secondary analysis was performed using measures obtained from 390 participants undergoing primary unilateral TKR and participating in a randomized clinical trial. Self-reported knee instability was measured using 2 items from the Activities of Daily Living Scale of the Knee Outcome Survey. Outcome measures were knee pain (range 0–20) and physical function (range 0–68) on the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), stair-climb power, 50-foot walk time, knee range of motion, and isometric knee flexion and extension strength. Results In this study, 72% of participants reported knee instability just prior to surgery, with 32% retaining instability in the operated knee 6 months after surgery. Participants retaining operated knee instability had significantly more knee pain and activity limitations 6 months after surgery, with mean ± SD WOMAC scores of 4.8 ± 3.7 and 17.5 ± 11.1, respectively, compared to participants without knee instability, with 2.9 ± 3.1 and 9.8 ± 9.2. The multivariable predictor model for retained knee instability included a high comorbidity score (>6), low stair-climb power (<150 watts), more pain in the operated knee (>7 of 20), and younger age (<60 years). Conclusion Self-reported knee instability is highly prevalent before and after TKR surgery and is associated with a considerable burden of pain and activity limitation in the operated knee. Increasing lower extremity muscle power may reduce the risk of retaining knee instability after TKR surgery.

The activation of natural regulatory T cells (nTreg) recognizing the heavy constant region (Fc) of IgG is an important mechanism of action of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy in Kawasaki disease (KD). Lack of circulating Fc-specific nTreg in the sub-acute phase of KD is correlated with the development of coronary artery abnormalities (CAA). Here, we characterize the fine specificity of nTreg in sub-acute (2- to 8-week post-IVIG) and convalescent (1- to 10-year post-IVIG) KD subjects by testing the immunogenicity of 64 peptides, 15 amino acids in length with a 10 amino acid-overlap spanning the entire Fc protein. About 12 Fc peptides (6 pools of 2 consecutive peptides) were recognized by nTreg in the cohorts studied, including two patients with CAA. To test whether IVIG expands the same nTreg populations that maintain vascular homeostasis in healthy subjects, we compared these results with results obtained in healthy adult controls. Similar nTreg fine specificities were observed in KD patients after IVIG and in healthy donors. These results suggest that T cell fitness rather than T cell clonal deletion or anergy is responsible for the lack of Fc-specific nTreg in KD patients who develop CAA. Furthermore, we found that adolescents and adults who had KD during childhood without developing CAA did not respond to the Fc protein in vitro, suggesting that the nTreg response induced by IVIG in KD patients is short-lived. Our results support the concept that peptide epitopes may be a viable therapeutic approach to expand Fc-specific nTreg and more effectively prevent CAA in KD patients.

El presente trabajo trata sobre la creación del Hospital de la Convalecencia como un agregado al Hospital de la Sangre de Sevilla. En él se tratará el papel de las mandas testamentarias de Diego de Yanguas, tesorero de la moneda de esa ciudad, y los numerosos litigios que demoraron su establecimiento hasta 1637., The Hospital of the Blood of Seville had a failed start of convalescence in the sixteenth century. Finally, the treasurer of the Sevilla Mint Diego de Yanguas allowed the creation of a convalescent area through his will in 1622. However, there were disputes that delayed its establishment until 1637.

El presente trabajo trata sobre la creación del Hospital de la Convalecencia como un agregado al Hospital de la Sangre de Sevilla. En él se tratará el papel de las mandas testamentarias de Diego de Yanguas, tesorero de la moneda de esa ciudad, y los numerosos litigios que demoraron su establecimiento hasta 1637., The Hospital of the Blood of Seville had a failed start of convalescence in the sixteenth century. Finally, the treasurer of the Sevilla Mint Diego de Yanguas allowed the creation of a convalescent area through his will in 1622. However, there were disputes that delayed its establishment until 1637.

Background: Trials of endovascular therapy for ischemic stroke have produced variable results. We conducted this study to test whether more advanced imaging selection, recently developed devices, and earlier intervention improve outcomes. Method(s): We randomly assigned patients with ischemic stroke who were receiving 0.9 mg of alteplase per kilogram of body weight less than 4.5 hours after the onset of ischemic stroke either to undergo endovascular thrombectomy with the Solitaire FR (Flow Restoration) stent retriever or to continue receiving alteplase alone. All the patients had occlusion of the internal carotid or middle cerebral artery and evidence of salvageable brain tissue and ischemic core of less than 70 ml on computed tomographic (CT) perfusion imaging. The coprimary outcomes were reperfusion at 24 hours and early neurologic improvement (.8-point reduction on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale or a score of 0 or 1 at day 3). Secondary outcomes included the functional score on the modified Rankin scale at 90 days. Result(s): The trial was stopped early because of efficacy after 70 patients had undergone randomization (35 patients in each group). The percentage of ischemic territory that had undergone reperfusion at 24 hours was greater in the endovascular-therapy group than in the alteplase-only group (median, 100% vs. 37%; P<0.001). Endovascular therapy, initiated at a median of 210 minutes after the onset of stroke, increased early neurologic improvement at 3 days (80% vs. 37%, P = 0.002) and improved the functional outcome at 90 days, with more patients achieving functional independence (score of 0 to 2 on the modified Rankin scale, 71% vs. 40%; P = 0.01). There were no significant differences in rates of death or symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage. Conclusion(s): In patients with ischemic stroke with a proximal cerebral arterial occlusion and salvageable tissue on CT perfusion imaging, early thrombectomy with the Solitaire FR stent retrieve

Background: Trials of endovascular therapy for ischemic stroke have produced variable results. We conducted this study to test whether more advanced imaging selection, recently developed devices, and earlier intervention improve outcomes. Method(s): We randomly assigned patients with ischemic stroke who were receiving 0.9 mg of alteplase per kilogram of body weight less than 4.5 hours after the onset of ischemic stroke either to undergo endovascular thrombectomy with the Solitaire FR (Flow Restoration) stent retriever or to continue receiving alteplase alone. All the patients had occlusion of the internal carotid or middle cerebral artery and evidence of salvageable brain tissue and ischemic core of less than 70 ml on computed tomographic (CT) perfusion imaging. The coprimary outcomes were reperfusion at 24 hours and early neurologic improvement (.8-point reduction on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale or a score of 0 or 1 at day 3). Secondary outcomes included the functional score on the modified Rankin scale at 90 days. Result(s): The trial was stopped early because of efficacy after 70 patients had undergone randomization (35 patients in each group). The percentage of ischemic territory that had undergone reperfusion at 24 hours was greater in the endovascular-therapy group than in the alteplase-only group (median, 100% vs. 37%; P<0.001). Endovascular therapy, initiated at a median of 210 minutes after the onset of stroke, increased early neurologic improvement at 3 days (80% vs. 37%, P = 0.002) and improved the functional outcome at 90 days, with more patients achieving functional independence (score of 0 to 2 on the modified Rankin scale, 71% vs. 40%; P = 0.01). There were no significant differences in rates of death or symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage. Conclusion(s): In patients with ischemic stroke with a proximal cerebral arterial occlusion and salvageable tissue on CT perfusion imaging, early thrombectomy with the Solitaire FR stent retrieve

The activation of natural regulatory T cells (nTreg) recognizing the heavy constant region (Fc) of IgG is an important mechanism of action of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy in Kawasaki disease (KD). Lack of circulating Fc-specific nTreg in the sub-acute phase of KD is correlated with the development of coronary artery abnormalities (CAA). Here, we characterize the fine specificity of nTreg in sub-acute (2- to 8-week post-IVIG) and convalescent (1- to 10-year post-IVIG) KD subjects by testing the immunogenicity of 64 peptides, 15 amino acids in length with a 10 amino acid-overlap spanning the entire Fc protein. About 12 Fc peptides (6 pools of 2 consecutive peptides) were recognized by nTreg in the cohorts studied, including two patients with CAA. To test whether IVIG expands the same nTreg populations that maintain vascular homeostasis in healthy subjects, we compared these results with results obtained in healthy adult controls. Similar nTreg fine specificities were observed in KD patients after IVIG and in healthy donors. These results suggest that T cell fitness rather than T cell clonal deletion or anergy is responsible for the lack of Fc-specific nTreg in KD patients who develop CAA. Furthermore, we found that adolescents and adults who had KD during childhood without developing CAA did not respond to the Fc protein in vitro, suggesting that the nTreg response induced by IVIG in KD patients is short-lived. Our results support the concept that peptide epitopes may be a viable therapeutic approach to expand Fc-specific nTreg and more effectively prevent CAA in KD patients.

We report on the performance of composite nerve grafts with an inner 3D multichannel porous chitosan core and an outer electrospun polycaprolactone shell. The inner chitosan core provided multiple guidance channels for regrowing axons. To analyze the in vivo properties of the bare chitosan cores, we separately implanted them into an epineural sheath. The effects of both graft types on structural and functional regeneration across a 10 mm rat sciatic nerve gap were compared to autologous nerve transplantation (ANT). The mechanical biomaterial properties and the immunological impact of the grafts were assessed with histological techniques before and after transplantation in vivo. Furthermore during a 13-week examination period functional tests and electrophysiological recordings were performed and supplemented by nerve morphometry. The sheathing of the chitosan core with a polycaprolactone shell induced massive foreign body reaction and impairment of nerve regeneration. Although the isolated novel chitosan core did allow regeneration of axons in a similar size distribution as the ANT, the ANT was superior in terms of functional regeneration. We conclude that an outer polycaprolactone shell should not be used for the purpose of bioartificial nerve grafting, while 3D multichannel porous chitosan cores could be candidate scaffolds for structured nerve grafts.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Advances in medical care have led to an increasing elderly population. Elderly individuals should be able to participate in society as long as possible. However, with an increasing age their adaptive capacity gradually decreases, specially before and after major life events (like hospitalization and surgery) making them vulnerable to reduced functioning and societal participation. Therapeutic exercise before and after surgery might augment the postoperative outcomes by improving functional status and reducing the complication and mortality rate. RECENT FINDINGS: There is high quality evidence that preoperative exercise in patients scheduled for cardiovascular surgery is well tolerated and effective. Moreover, there is circumstantial evidence suggesting preoperative exercise for thoracic, abdominal and major joint replacement surgery is effective, provided that this is offered to the high-risk patients. Postoperative exercise should be initiated as soon as possible after surgery according to fast-track or enhanced recovery after surgery principles. SUMMARY: The perioperative exercise training protocol known under the name 'Better in, Better out' could be implemented in clinical care for the vulnerable group of patients scheduled for major elective surgery who are at risk for prolonged hospitalization, complications and/or death. Future research should aim to include this at-risk group, evaluate perioperative high-intensity exercise interventions and conduct adequately powered trials. © 2014 Wolter Kluwer Health | Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Objective: It is not known how airway structure is altered during real-life acute asthma exacerbations. The aim of this study was to examine changes in airway structure during acute asthma exacerbations and at convalescence by using lung-volume controlled high resolution computerised tomography (HRCT). Method(s): Eight subjects with acute asthma exacerbation admitted to hospital were recruited. HRCT was performed within 72h of admission (n=8) and repeated after 8 weeks of convalescence (n=7). Individual airways were carefully matched on acute and convalescent CT data sets for comparisons of airway parameters. A novel methodology was employed for standardisation of lung volumes to permit valid comparisons of lung imaging. Measurements of bronchial cross sectional airway area (Aa) and bronchial luminal area (Ai)for each matched airway were obtained using a validated program. Result(s): The airway wall thickness was analysed as wall area (WA) calculated as a percentage: WA%=WA/Aax100. Wilcoxon signed-rank testing was used to compare acute and convalescent asthma and Spearman's correlation to examine associations. Airway lumen (Ai) areas were similar in both acute and stable asthma phases (6.6+/-3.1mm2 versus 7.2+/-3.8mm2 p=0.8). However, the airway wall was significantly thickened during acute asthma exacerbations compared to convalescence (62+/-4% versus 55+/-7%; p=0.01). There was no correlation between airway structure dimensions and lung function measurements. Conclusion(s): This is the first study to demonstrate an increase in airway wall thickness during real-life acute asthma exacerbation. However, narrowing of the airway lumen area was variable and will require larger studies able to detect small differences. These results suggest that airway wall thickening linked to mucosal inflammation is likely to characterise acute asthma in vivo but that changes in the airway lumen accompanying bronchoconstriction may be more heterogeneous. © 2014 Informa Healthcare USA

Objective: It is not known how airway structure is altered during real-life acute asthma exacerbations. The aim of this study was to examine changes in airway structure during acute asthma exacerbations and at convalescence by using lung-volume controlled high resolution computerised tomography (HRCT). Method(s): Eight subjects with acute asthma exacerbation admitted to hospital were recruited. HRCT was performed within 72h of admission (n=8) and repeated after 8 weeks of convalescence (n=7). Individual airways were carefully matched on acute and convalescent CT data sets for comparisons of airway parameters. A novel methodology was employed for standardisation of lung volumes to permit valid comparisons of lung imaging. Measurements of bronchial cross sectional airway area (Aa) and bronchial luminal area (Ai)for each matched airway were obtained using a validated program. Result(s): The airway wall thickness was analysed as wall area (WA) calculated as a percentage: WA%=WA/Aax100. Wilcoxon signed-rank testing was used to compare acute and convalescent asthma and Spearman's correlation to examine associations. Airway lumen (Ai) areas were similar in both acute and stable asthma phases (6.6+/-3.1mm2 versus 7.2+/-3.8mm2 p=0.8). However, the airway wall was significantly thickened during acute asthma exacerbations compared to convalescence (62+/-4% versus 55+/-7%; p=0.01). There was no correlation between airway structure dimensions and lung function measurements. Conclusion(s): This is the first study to demonstrate an increase in airway wall thickness during real-life acute asthma exacerbation. However, narrowing of the airway lumen area was variable and will require larger studies able to detect small differences. These results suggest that airway wall thickening linked to mucosal inflammation is likely to characterise acute asthma in vivo but that changes in the airway lumen accompanying bronchoconstriction may be more heterogeneous. © 2014 Informa Healthcare USA

Aim : LASERs are becoming an increasingly popular method for the surgical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The research relating to the use of photoselective vaporisation (PVP) has expanded rapidly. There is also evidence that eff ective outcomes can be reached with Holmium Eneucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP). Similarly, no reviews on the subject are yet to evaluate the diff erences between the 120 W lithium triborate (LBO) and 80 W potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) systems. We conduct a systematic review and metaanalysis of these two popular laser systems, and explore whether any diff erences in outcomes between the two exist. Further sub-group analysis was conducted between the two methods of PVP (120 W and 80 W). Methods : P ublications between 2000 and 2012 in Medline, Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were identified, as well as those found by hand searching. The risk ratio and mean diff erence (as well as the 95% confidence intervals) for outcomes were calculated. Results : 1 5 trials with 2107 participants met the inclusion criteria with a mean follow up of 16 months. PVP and HoLEP provided similar functional outcomes (QMax and IPSS) as TURP, but have advantages in terms of hospital stay and haemostasis. Operating time with the 120 W is shorter than the 80 W laser; however the reoperation rate is higher. Conclusion(s): Th is is the largest analysis conducted to do date that reviews these two lasers. They off er advantages for patients in terms of convalescence and haemostasis, at the cost of increased operating time and in some instances reoperation.