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Acute myocarditis is a rare complication of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccination. Little is known about the natural history of this complication.Baseline and convalescent (≥ 90 days) cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging assessments were performed in 20 consecutive patients meeting Updated Lake Louise Criteria for acute myocarditis within 10 days of mRNA-based vaccination. CMR-based changes in left ventricular volumes, mass, ejection fraction (LVEF), markers of tissue inflammation (native T1 and T2 mapping), and fibrosis (late gadolinium enhancement [LGE] and extracellular volume [ECV]) were assessed between baseline and convalescence. Cardiac symptoms and clinical outcomes were captured.Median age was 23.1 years (range 18-39 years), and 17 (85%) were male. Convalescent evaluations were performed at a median (IQR) 3.7 (3.3-6.2) months. The LVEF showed a mean 3% absolute improvement, accompanied by a 7% reduction in LV end-diastolic volume and 5% reduction in LV mass (all P0.015). Global LGE burden was reduced by 66% (P0.001). Absolute reductions in global T2, native T1, and ECV of 2.1 ms, 58 ms, and 2.9%, repectively, were documented (all P ≤ 0.001). Of 5 patients demonstrating LVEF ≤ 50% at baseline, all recovered to above this threshold in convalescence. A total of 18 (90%) patients showed persistence of abnormal LGE although mean fibrosis burden was5% of LV mass in 85% of cases. No patient experienced major clinical outcomes.COVID-19 mRNA vaccine-associated myocarditis showed rapid improvements in CMR-based markers of edema, contractile function, and global LGE burden beyond 3 months of recovery in this young patient cohort. However, regional fibrosis following edema resolution was commonly observed, justifying need for ongoing surveillance.

Background: COVID-19 pandemic, which still continues to affect the whole world, has led to an increase in PTSD symptoms in societies, especially individuals who have been diagnosed with the disease and recovered are at significant risk for PTSD have been reported. Although it has been observed that PTSD symptoms of individuals who were infected in the past epidemics such as SARS and Ebola continued for a long time even after the epidemic, it is noteworthy that the studies conducted during the COVID-19 process do not focus enough on people who survived the COVID-19 disease. The purpose of this study is to determine the direct and indirect impact of positivity on PTSD symptoms of individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 and the role of rumination and fear of COVID-19 as potential mediators in this effect. Subjects and methods: In the study, the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, Ruminative Response Scale, Positivity Scale, and Fear of COVID-19 Scale were applied to 551 Turkish participants, who survived the COVID-19 disease. SEM-based mediation analysis was used to test hypothesized relationships. Results: Mediating roles of fear of COVID-19 and rumination between positivity and PTSD were tested. Results indicated that rumination andfear of COVID-19 had a full mediating role in the relationship between positivity and PTSD. Conclusion: These findings pointed out that positivity might be an indirect protective disposition against COVID-19-related PTSD and might reduce risk factors associated with PTSD among COVID-19 survivors. Mental health practices for COVID-19 patients should aim to increase positive thinking, since they have ruminative thoughts about transmission of the virus and hospitalization process and these thoughts may lead to negative mental health conditions. In this sense, positive psychology-focused implementations can be organized for COVID-19 patients and survivors. © Medicinska naklada - Zagreb, Croatia.

Prolonged recovery is common after acute SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, the pathophysiological mechanisms underpinning Long COVID syndrome remain unknown. VWF/ADAMTS-13 imbalance, dysregulated angiogenesis, and immunothrombosis are hallmarks of acute COVID-19. We hypothesized that VWF/ADAMTS-13 imbalance persists in convalescence together with endothelial cell (EC) activation and angiogenic disturbance. Additionally, we postulate that ongoing immune cell dysfunction may be linked to sustained EC and coagulation activation.Fifty patients were reviewed at a minimum of 6 weeks following acute COVID-19. ADAMTS-13, Weibel Palade Body (WPB) proteins, and angiogenesis-related proteins were assessed and clinical evaluation and immunophenotyping performed. Comparisons were made with healthy controls (n = 20) and acute COVID-19 patients (n = 36).ADAMTS-13 levels were reduced (p = 0.009) and the VWF-ADAMTS-13 ratio was increased in convalescence (p = 0.0004). Levels of platelet factor 4 (PF4), a putative protector of VWF, were also elevated (p = 0.0001). A non-significant increase in WPB proteins Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) and Osteoprotegerin (OPG) was observed in convalescent patients and WPB markers correlated with EC parameters. Enhanced expression of 21 angiogenesis-related proteins was observed in convalescent COVID-19. Finally, immunophenotyping revealed significantly elevated intermediate monocytes and activated CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in convalescence, which correlated with thrombin generation and endotheliopathy markers, respectively.Our data provide insights into sustained EC activation, dysregulated angiogenesis, and VWF/ADAMTS-13 axis imbalance in convalescent COVID-19. In keeping with the pivotal role of immunothrombosis in acute COVID-19, our findings support the hypothesis that abnormal T cell and monocyte populations may be important in the context of persistent EC activation and hemostatic dysfunction during convalescence.

This is a descriptive study to characterize rates of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in pediatric solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients during the early days of the pandemic. We hypothesized that asymptomatic infection may represent a large proportion of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pediatric SOT recipients.We queried Organ Transplant Tracking Record (OTTR) for all pediatric SOT recipients followed at our center and reviewed medical records to identify patients tested for SARS-CoV-2 between March 15, 2020 and June 30, 2021. Patients were tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR): prior to planned procedures or because of symptoms; OR: tested by measurement of IgG to spike protein with their routine labs q 2-monthly. A positive PCR was called acute infection. A positive IgG with negative PCR was called convalescence. For immunologic studies, blood was obtained when the PCR or IgG was positive. Statistical comparisons were made between (1) acute infection versus convalescence; (2) acute infection versus SOT recipients without infection (called healthy controls); (3) liver transplant (LT) versus small bowel (SB)/multivisceral transplant (MVT); (4) positive versus negative test result.Of 257 LT recipients, 99 were tested: 6 were PCR positive, 13 were antibody positive. Of 150 SB/MVT recipients, 55 were tested: 4 were PCR positive, 6 were antibody positive. Of 8 simultaneous liver, kidney transplant recipients, 3 were tested: 1 was PCR positive. Symptoms when present were mostly mild. Patients with a positive test result were younger (6.3 vs 10.0 years; P = 0.017). We observed a rapid decline in viral load within 96 hours without a change in immunosuppression. Antibody lasted8 months beyond the time it was monitored. Acute infection was associated with increased CD4 and CD8 T EM cell frequency ( P = 0.04, P = 0.03, respectively), decreased interferon (IFN)-γ production from T-cells (2.8% vs 11.3%; P = 0.006), and decreased CD8 TEMRA frequency (4.56% vs 11.70%; P = 0.006).Early in the pandemic, COVID-19 disease was mostly mild in pediatric SOT recipients with no rejection, patient death, or graft loss observed.

BackgroundCOVID-19 is associated with a dysregulated immune response but it is unclear how immune dysfunction contributes to the chronic morbidity persisting in many COVID-19 patients during convalescence (long COVID).MethodsWe assessed phenotypical and functional changes of monocytes in COVID-19 patients during hospitalisation and up to 9 months of convalescence following COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus or influenza A. Patients with progressive fibrosing interstitial lung disease were included as a positive control for severe, ongoing lung injury.ResultsMonocyte alterations in acute COVID-19 patients included aberrant expression of leukocyte migration molecules, continuing into convalescence (n=142) and corresponding with specific symptoms of long COVID. Long COVID patients with unresolved lung injury, indicated by sustained shortness of breath and abnormal chest radiology, were defined by high monocyte expression of C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 6 (CXCR6) (pConclusionsOur data define unique monocyte signatures that define subgroups of long COVID patients, indicating a key role for monocyte migration in COVID-19 pathophysiology. Targeting these pathways may provide novel therapeutic opportunities in COVID-19 patients with persistent morbidity.

Background The chest CT manifestations of COVID-19 from hospitalization to convalescence after one year are not known. Purpose To assess chest CT manifestations of COVID-19 up to 1 year after symptom onset. Materials and Methods Patients were enrolled if they were admitted to the hospital due to COVID-19 and underwent CT scans during hospitalization at two isolation centers between 27 January and 31 March 2020. In a prospective study, three serial chest CTs were obtained at approximately 3, 7, and 12 months after symptom onset and longitudinally analyzed. The total CT score of pulmonary lobe involvement from 0 to 25 was assessed (score 1-5 for each lobe). Uni-/multi-variable logistic regression tests were performed to explore independent risk factors for residual CT abnormalities after one year. Results 209 study participants (mean age: 49±13 years, 116 women) were evaluated. At 3 months, 61% of participants (128 of 209) had resolution of CT abnormalities; at 12 months, 75% (156 of 209) had resolution. Of chest CT abnormalities that had not resolved, there were residual linear opacities in 25/209 (12%) and multifocal reticular/cystic lesions in 28/209 (13%) participants. Age≥50 years, lymphopenia, and severe/ARDS aggravation were independent risk factors for residual CT abnormalities at one year (odds ratios of 15.9, 18.9, and 43.9, respectively; P

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 variant emerged in 20211 and has multiple mutations in its spike protein2. Here we show that the spike protein of Omicron has a higher affinity for ACE2 compared with Delta, and a marked change in its antigenicity increases Omicron’s evasion of therapeutic monoclonal and vaccine-elicited polyclonal neutralizing antibodies after two doses. mRNA vaccination as a third vaccine dose rescues and broadens neutralization. Importantly, the antiviral drugs remdesivir and molnupiravir retain efficacy against Omicron BA.1. Replication was similar for Omicron and Delta virus isolates in human nasal epithelial cultures. However, in lung cells and gut cells, Omicron demonstrated lower replication. Omicron spike protein was less efficiently cleaved compared with Delta. The differences in replication were mapped to the entry efficiency of the virus on the basis of spike-pseudotyped virus assays. The defect in entry of Omicron pseudotyped virus to specific cell types effectively correlated with higher cellular RNA expression of TMPRSS2, and deletion of TMPRSS2 affected Delta entry to a greater extent than Omicron. Furthermore, drug inhibitors targeting specific entry pathways3 demonstrated that the Omicron spike inefficiently uses the cellular protease TMPRSS2, which promotes cell entry through plasma membrane fusion, with greater dependency on cell entry through the endocytic pathway. Consistent with suboptimal S1/S2 cleavage and inability to use TMPRSS2, syncytium formation by the Omicron spike was substantially impaired compared with the Delta spike. The less efficient spike cleavage of Omicron at S1/S2 is associated with a shift in cellular tropism away from TMPRSS2-expressing cells, with implications for altered pathogenesis.

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) has multiple spike protein mutations1,2 that contribute to viral escape from antibody neutralization3–6 and reduce vaccine protection from infection7,8. The extent to which other components of the adaptive response such as T cells may still target Omicron and contribute to protection from severe outcomes is unknown. Here we assessed the ability of T cells to react to Omicron spike protein in participants who were vaccinated with Ad26.CoV2.S or BNT162b2, or unvaccinated convalescent COVID-19 patients (n = 70). Between 70% and 80% of the CD4+ and CD8+ T cell response to spike was maintained across study groups. Moreover, the magnitude of Omicron cross-reactive T cells was similar for Beta (B.1.351) and Delta (B.1.617.2) variants, despite Omicron harbouring considerably more mutations. In patients who were hospitalized with Omicron infections (n = 19), there were comparable T cell responses to ancestral spike, nucleocapsid and membrane proteins to those in patients hospitalized in previous waves dominated by the ancestral, Beta or Delta variants (n = 49). Thus, despite extensive mutations and reduced susceptibility to neutralizing antibodies of Omicron, the majority of T cell responses induced by vaccination or infection cross-recognize the variant. It remains to be determined whether well-preserved T cell immunity to Omicron contributes to protection from severe COVID-19 and is linked to early clinical observations from South Africa and elsewhere9–12.

В роботі показано, що у хворих на гострий гепатит В із хронічним уживанням алкоголю в гепатотоксичних дозах відбуваються більш виражені функціональні порушення стану вегетативної нервової системи з розвитком вегетативного дисбалансу у бік ваготонії, які зберігаються і в періоді реконвалесценції.

This paper presents the findings of laboratory examination in 35 infants with acute intestinal infection of rotavirus origin. The evaluation of the dynamics of cellular link of the immune system in the acute phase of the disease and during convalescence has been carried out. There were significant differences in CD3+ and CD16+ levels in blood serum at mono and mixed rotavirus infection.

Point-of-care (POC) tests to detect SARS-CoV-2 antibodies offer quick assessment of serostatus after natural infection or vaccination. We compared the field performance of the BioMedomics COVID-19 IgM/IgG Rapid Antibody Test against an ELISA in 303 participants enrolled in a SARS-CoV-2 household cohort study. The rapid antibody test was easily implemented with consistent interpretation across 14 users in a variety of field settings. Compared with ELISA, detection of seroconversion lagged by 5 to 10 days. However, it retained a sensitivity of 90% (160/177, 95% confidence interval [CI] 85–94%) and specificity of 100% (43/43, 95% CI 92–100%) for those tested 3 to 5 weeks after symptom onset. Sensitivity was diminished among those with asymptomatic infection (74% [14/19], 95% CI 49–91%) and early in infection (45% [29/64], 95% CI 33–58%). When used appropriately, rapid antibody tests offer a convenient way to detect symptomatic infections during convalescence.

The aim: To identify clinical and immunological features of acute rotavirus gastroenteritis occurring against the background of Epstein-Barr virus infection. Materials and methods: The study involved examination of 56 children. Of them, 33 children (1 group) did not have a background infection and 23 patients (2 group) suffered from rotavirus infection on the background of the latent form of Epstein-Barr virus infection. Children in these groups were compared by gender, age, severity of the disease and other parameters. Quantitative data were presented as mean and standard deviation (M±SD). Differences at p

The Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) was only recently detected in southern Africa, but its subsequent spread has been extensive, both regionally and globally1. It is expected to become dominant in the coming weeks2, probably due to enhanced transmissibility. A striking feature of this variant is the large number of spike mutations3 that pose a threat to the efficacy of current COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) vaccines and antibody therapies4. This concern is amplified by the findings from our study. We found B.1.1.529 to be markedly resistant to neutralization by serum not only from convalescent patients, but also from individuals vaccinated with one of the four widely used COVID-19 vaccines. Even serum from persons vaccinated and boosted with mRNA-based vaccines exhibited substantially diminished neutralizing activity against B.1.1.529. By evaluating a panel of monoclonal antibodies to all known epitope clusters on the spike protein, we noted that the activity of 17 of the 19 antibodies tested were either abolished or impaired, including ones currently authorized or approved for use in patients. In addition, we also identified four new spike mutations (S371L, N440K, G446S, and Q493R) that confer greater antibody resistance to B.1.1.529. The Omicron variant presents a serious threat to many existing COVID-19 vaccines and therapies, compelling the development of new interventions that anticipate the evolutionary trajectory of SARS-CoV-2.

The primary objectives of this study were to estimate blood loss, operation time and cost differences in patients undergoing vaginal hysterectomy (VH) versus laparoscopically-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH). The secondary objectives were to determine differences in hospital stay, need for postoperative analgesia, intra- and immediate post-operative complications, and the rate of conversion to laparotomy. VH was hypothesized to be the preferred route for hysterectomy for benign uterine conditions.A randomized control study was undertaken at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital and included the women admitted between January 2017 and December 2019 for hysterectomy due to benign conditions, meeting the inclusion criteria (vaginally accessible uterus, estimated uterine size ≤ 12 weeks of gestation or ≤ 280 g on ultrasound examination and pathology confined to the uterus). Surgical procedures were performed by the residents in training under the supervision of specialists with large experience. The patient demographic characteristics, uterine weight, operative time, estimated blood loss(expressed as the difference between preoperative and postoperative day one serum haemoglobin),direct surgery-associated costs, intra- and immediate post-operative complications and the length of hospital stay were recorded and comparatively analysed among patients randomly placed in VH and LAVH group.A total of 227 women were included (151 patients underwent VH and 76 LAVH, upon 2:1 randomization, performed on this way to reflect the previous pattern of operating of the unit). The patients were matched with respect to age, parity and body mass index. No significant differences between two groups were found in mean uterine weight and also in mean serum haemoglobin shift, intra- and immediate post-operative complications, and convalescence period duration. There were statistically significant differences in operating time and in cost between the two procedures. On average, LAVH took longer than VH to be performed (62.8 ± 9.3 vs 29.9 ± 6.6 min, p 0.0001) and it was more costly, mainly due to the longer operating time and required disposables. An amount of 15698.20 South African Rand (ZAR) or 1145.85 United States Dollar (USD) more were needed to perform LAVH in comparison to VH. All VHs and LAVHs were successfully accomplished without major complications or conversation to laparotomy.Our data indicate that VH is a feasible and safe alternative for a large group of women with benign pathology and non-prolapsed uteri, being a faster and less costly procedure than LAVH.

Background Long COVID, defined as the presence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms ≥28 days after clinical onset, is an emerging challenge to healthcare systems. The objective of the current study was to explore recovery phenotypes in nonhospitalized individuals with COVID-19. Methods A dual cohort, online survey study was conducted between September 2020 and July 2021 in the neighboring European regions Tyrol (TY; Austria, n = 1157) and South Tyrol (STY; Italy, n = 893). Data were collected on demographics, comorbid conditions, COVID-19 symptoms, and recovery in adult outpatients. Phenotypes of acute COVID-19, postacute sequelae, and risk of protracted recovery were explored using semi-supervised clustering and multiparameter least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) modeling. Results Participants in the study cohorts were predominantly working age (median age [interquartile range], 43 [31–53] years] for TY and 45 [35–55] years] for STY) and female (65.1% in TY and 68.3% in STY). Nearly half (47.6% in TY and 49.3% in STY) reported symptom persistence beyond 28 days. Two acute COVID-19 phenotypes were discerned: the nonspecific infection phenotype and the multiorgan phenotype (MOP). Acute MOP symptoms encompassing multiple neurological, cardiopulmonary, gastrointestinal, and dermatological symptoms were linked to elevated risk of protracted recovery. The major subset of individuals with long COVID (49.3% in TY; 55.6% in STY) displayed no persistent hyposmia or hypogeusia but high counts of postacute MOP symptoms and poor self-reported physical recovery. Conclusions The results of our 2-cohort analysis delineated phenotypic diversity of acute and postacute COVID-19 manifestations in home-isolated patients, which must be considered in predicting protracted convalescence and allocating medical resources.

To investigate the effect of intelligent exercise training equipment on lower limb function and standing stability of stroke patients with hemiplegia in clinical nursing of neurology department. Forty-eight stroke patients with a course of 1 to 3 months were randomly divided into treatment group and control group, with 24 cases in each group. The control group was treated with conventional rehabilitation training, and the treatment group was treated with intelligent training system, twice a day, 20 min each time. Lower extremity motor function (using the FMA-L scale) and walking function (using the functional walking scale FAC) were assessed before treatment and 4 weeks after treatment. The results showed that there was no statistical difference between the control group and the treatment group in the t-test of lower limb motor function scores before rehabilitation treatment ( P > 0.05 ). After treatment, the lower extremity motor function scores of the two groups were tested by group design T-test, and the results showed that there was a significant difference between the two groups ( P < 0.05 ); The effect of the treatment group was significantly better than that of the control group ( P < 0.05 ). Intelligent exercise training equipment combined with routine rehabilitation therapy in clinical nursing of neurology department could improve the lower extremity motor function and walking ability of patients with convalescence stroke hemiplegia, and the effect was better than that of routine rehabilitation therapy alone.

With increasing age, people lose muscle strength and muscle mass. Acute illnesses, surgical interventions or chronic illnesses can quickly lead to immobility and even more muscle loss. For the elderly, there is a risk of reduced functionality and everyday skills. This syndrome, referred to sarcopenia, is characterized by a progressive and generalized loss of muscle mass and strength with negative consequences such as functional impairment and frailty. In the case of serious illnesses or surgical interventions, this is particularly noticeable in prolonged convalescence. Sarcopenia is associated with reduced quality of life and increased mortality. It is important to diagnose sarcopenia with the help of specific anamnesis questions and clinical functional examinations and to initiate adequate interventions, if possible preoperatively, for example. In addition to treating the underlying disease, it is crucial to always pay attention to the combination of a balanced protein-rich diet and appropriate physical training. Use of only one of the components or even the drug therapy approach is not effective.

COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect healthcare services. As elective cardiac surgical services resume back to normal, clinicians will encounter COVID-19 recovered patients for cardiac surgery. The hyper-immune pathophysiology of COVID-19 and exposure to inflammation of cardiac surgery, cardiopulmonary bypass, mechanical ventilation, blood transfusion, and perioperative infections could lead to exacerbated responses exemplified by systemic inflammatory response syndrome and cascade to multi-organ dysfunction syndromes. We present a case of a coronary artery disease undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery after the institutional protocol of two COVID-19 RT-PCR tests were reported negative. Intraoperatively, unexplained hypoxemia was observed, which warranted CPB support to complete the grafting. At multiple attempts of failed weaning, IABP and high inotropes helped to wean. The patient had a stormy postoperative course with low oxygenation, bleeding, low cardiac output syndrome, rhabdomyolysis of lower limb muscles, requiring multiple blood and blood product transfusion, and renal replacement therapy. Despite the corrective measures, severe hyperkalemia, and cardiac arrest ensued. IgG antibodies to the SARS-CoV-2 virus were tested considering the unexplained hypoxemia. A ‘convalescent COVID-19’ patient with ‘first hit’ at primary infection, encountering a ‘second hit’ of surgery and perioperative insults might result in a hyper-immune response. This ‘second hit’ hypothesis should be considered when COVID-19 convalescent (COVID-19 disease symptomatic or asymptomatic) patients undergo cardiac surgery and present with unusual complications.

Introduction. Tonsillopharyngitis often accompanies the course of acute respiratory infections in children (up to 12-15%). The use of systemic antibacterial drugs for viral etiology of the disease has not been shown, therefore, the interest of researchers in the use of herbal products is increasing. In numerous clinical trials conducted around the world, the liquid extract of the roots of Pelargonium sidoides EPs® 7630 has been shown to be effective and safe in the treatment of acute respiratory infections, acute tonsillopharyngitis, rhinosinusitis, acute bronchitis in adults and children.Objective of the study: assessment of the efficacy and safety of the drug EPs® 7630 (Umckalor) in acute tonsillopharyngitis of non-streptococcal etiology in children 2-6 years old on an outpatient basis.Materials and methods. A prospective analysis of cases of treatment with Umckalor for acute tonsillopharyngitis of non-streptococcal etiology against the background of acute respiratory infection in children 2-6 years old (n = 23, group 1) was carried out.The comparison group (2) consisted of children receiving standard therapy (n = 22). Systemic antibiotics and antiviral drugs were not used in all patients. The study was conducted over 6 months (2019-2020). The research results were processed using the Statistica 7.0 software (StatSoft, USA).Results and discussion. Therapy with Umckalor in children with acute tonsillopharyngitis contributed to the elimination of the main clinical symptoms of the disease on the 4th day of treatment (efficiency was 69.9%, p < 0.05). The most persistent symptom was hyperemia of the tonsils and oropharynx. The period of convalescence occurred 2 days earlier than in the children of group 2 (p < 0.05). Umckalor was well tolerated, no side effects of the drug were identified.Conclusions. The drug Umckalor can be recommended for monotherapy for 7 days in patients with acute non-streptococcal tonsillopharyngitis on an outpatient basis with mild and moderate disease.

Background:Children with exposure to coronavirus disease 2019 in recent times (asymptomatic or symptomatic infection) approaching congenital heart surgery programme are in increasing numbers. Understanding outcomes of such children will help risk-stratify and guide optimisation prior to congenital heart surgery.Objective:The objective of the present study was to determine whether convalescent coronavirus disease 2019 children undergoing congenital heart surgery have any worse mortality or post-operative outcomes.Design:Consecutive children undergoing congenital heart surgery from Oct 2020 to May 2021 were enrolled after testing for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction or rapid antigen test and immunoglobulin G antibody prior to surgery. Convalescent coronavirus disease 2019 was defined in any asymptomatic patient positive for immunoglobulin G antibodies and negative for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction or rapid antigen test anytime 6 weeks prior to surgery. Control patients were negative for any of the three tests. Mortality and post-operative outcomes were compared among the groups.Results:One thousand one hundred and twenty-nine consecutive congenital heart surgeries were stratified as convalescence and control. Coronavirus disease 2019 Convalescent (n = 349) and coronavirus disease 2019 control (n = 780) groups were comparable for all demographic and clinical factors except younger and smaller kids in control. Convalescent children had no higher mortality, ventilation duration, ICU and hospital stay, no higher support with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, high flow nasal cannula, no higher need for re-intubations, re-admissions, and no higher infections as central line-associated bloodstream infection, sternal site infection, and ventilator-associated pneumonia on comparison with coronavirus disease 2019 control children.Conclusions:Convalescent coronavirus disease 2019 does not have any unfavourable outcomes as compared to coronavirus disease 2019 control children. Positive immunoglobulin G antibody screening prior to surgery is suggestive of convalescence and supports comparable outcomes on par with control peers.

Objective: To present various types of vaccines and viral infections which can induce cross-reactive immunity against COVID-19. In addition, this article discusses the role of herd immunity and convalescent serum therapy in preventing and controlling SARS CoV-2. The study also determined the claims and counterclaims about their protective and therapeutic effects. Method: Non-systematic review was done using different articles done on cross-reactive immunity against COVID-19 through vaccinations, previous infections, herd immunity and the therapeutic effects of convalescence serum. The search was done on the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct, WHO, Euro-surveillance, CDC databases. Results: Many observational correlational studies reported that BCG decreases the incidence and mortality from COVID-19. Furthermore, homology between the COVID-19 virus and the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) viruses was discovered. Few studies suggested the presence of cross-immunity between MMR vaccine and SARS-CoV-2. Similarly, few studies suggested protective effects of Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) against SARS-CoV-2; since both viruses are positive-single-strand RNA (+ssRNA). Diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DPT) vaccines, particularly those that include inactivated whole pertussis vaccine, might induce B and T cell cross-reactive immunity against SARS-CoV-2. Other vaccines against Streptococcus pneumonia, Haemophilus influenza, and Meningococcal meningitis vaccines are suggested also to induce some immunity against Covid-19. It is hypothesized that infections with other Coronaviruses may cause protection against SARS-CoV-2. However, the studies done on these suggestions were mostly observational that can carry a high chance of inherent biases. There are also claims and counterclaims about the effect of herd immunity and convalescence serum on the prevention and control of Covid-19. So, appropriately designed RCTs are needed to prove or disprove their protective and therapeutic effects. Conclusions: There are claims and counterclaims about the protective effects of different vaccines, previous infections, and herd immunity and regarding the therapeutic effects of convalescence serum. Comparing with other vaccines, BCG was suggested to have the highest cross-reactive epitopes against SARS-Cov-2 virus. MMR, OPV, DPT, Influenza, Pneumococcal and meningococcal vaccines are suggested to protect against Covid-19. Previous infection with other Corona viruses, herd immunity and convalescence serum may play roles in the prevention and control of Covid-19. Many large clinical trials are undergoing nowadays and their results are needed to prove or disprove the cross-immunity related to SARS-CoV-2 and the effect of convalescence serum.

In December 2019, a novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) was initially reported in Wuhan, China. Previous epidemics including SARS and middle east respiratory syndrome raises concern that COVID-19 infection may pose a significant threat to the mental health of affected individuals. Studies and reviews have shown the acute psychiatric manifestations in COVID-19 patients, although long term psychiatric sequelae are predicted, there are only few review studies about the long term psychiatry outcome in COVID-19 survivors. Clinically significant post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and/or depression among COVID-19 survivors during 14-90 d were observed following the diagnosis. Risk of anxiety or depression were higher in patients with more severe illness at 6 mo follow-up, early convalescence, and at 1 mo follow-up. Diagnosis of COVID-19 Led to more first diagnoses and relapses of psychiatric illness during the first 14-90 d after COVID-19 diagnosis. The possible underlying mechanisms of psychiatric sequelae in COVID-19 infection are neurotropism, immune response to SARS-CoV-2, hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis hyperactivity, disrupted neuronal circuits in several brain regions, increased stress levels, neuroinflammation, and neuronal death. This study will review the psychiatric sequelae in previous coronavirus pandemics, current studies, risk factors, and thorough explanation on pathophysiology of the psychiatric sequalae in COVID-19 survivors.

Coronavirus infection poses a particular danger in relation to decompensation of existing chronic diseases and specific damage to the cardiovascular system (CVS) both during an acute infection and during convalescence. Objective of the study: to summarize current knowledge about the potential involvement of CVS in the development and progression of acute COVID-19 infection and multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS) in children and to form an sense of the predictive value, diagnostic tactics and treatment of cardiac anomalies during the coronavirus pandemic. A search was performed in MEDLINE, PubMed, e-library using the search terms «cardiovascular disease in COVID-19/MIS in children», «congenital heart disease/pulmonary hypertension/prolonged QT interval and COVID-19 in children» to identify articles published from April 1, 2020 to May 1, 2021. A literature review indicates that cardiac disorders associated with the new coronavirus infection in children, in the vast majority of cases, developed during MIS, which manifests itself in the form of febrile fever, external signs of Kawasaki disease, hyperinflammatory state and multi-organ damage with an emphasis on CVS. Cardiovascular symptoms occur in the vast majority of children with MIS, and in more than half of the patients – by the type of myocardial dysfunction and/or shock, somewhat less often – in the form of ECG changes, pericardial effusion, сoronary artery ectasia. Against the background of treatment with steroids, intravenous human immunoglobulin (IVIG) and biologic drugs in combination with inotropic support in almost all children, the morphofunctional characteristics of CVS are restored to normal or subnormal levels in a few days. The need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and lethal cases are rare. The possibility of developing myocarditis (including fatal), pulmonary hypertension and cardiac arrhythmias associated with COVID-19 in pediatric patients with discussion of possible pathophysiological mechanisms was also described. Long-term observation of this category of persons is necessary due to the uncertain prognosis and the risk of progression of cardiac manifestations. An early comprehensive diagnosis of cardiac disorders and monitoring of the identified changes in children with MIS and acute coronavirus infection are needed. (English) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR][ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of Pediatriya named after G. N. Speransky is the property of Pediatria, Ltd. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background. The causative agent of the coronavirus infection – SARS-CoV-2 – remains active and causes new cases despite the measures taken around the world. In order to timely detect ophthalmopathies in patients with dyslipidemia who have gone through COVID-19-associated pneumonia, prospective observation during the period of convalescence is advisable, justified and relevant. The assessment of the microcirculation of the bulbar conjunctiva is simple, non-invasive, safe, and allows assessing changes in the entire microcirculatory system of the body. Purpose. To study the features of the somatic status, hemodynamics of the bulbar conjunctiva in patients with dyslipidemia who have gone through COVID[1]19-associated pneumonia, depending on gender, homocysteine and cystatin C indicators during symptomatic therapy. Methods. 55 patients (110 eyes) with a documented diagnosis of COVID-19-associated pneumonia with an increased level of homocysteine and cystatin C were prospectively examined 3 months after discharge from the hospital. After consulting with therapist, cardiologist and functional diagnostics doctor, patients were divided into two groups according to gender. Results. In both groups, the dependence of the severity of lung damage on age was noted: Spearman’s correlation coefficient (r) amounted to r = 0.4; p = 0.017 and r = 0.5; p = 0.045, respectively. A direct correlation on the stage of AH was noted in patients of Group 1 (r = 0.4; p = 0.016), however, in patients of Group 2, this dependence was not found to be significant (r = 0.2; p = 0.367). There were no statistically significant changes in lipid profile in patients of both groups. The severity of endotheliosis during the period of convalescence in the study groups was confirmed by the average values of homocysteine and cystatin C compared to the reference values (1.4/1.6 and 1.62/1.67 times higher, respectively). A month of symptomatic metabolic treatment (Rosuvastatin, 1 mg of folic acid three times a day, 1 pill of Combilipen once a day, 1 drop of Chiloparin[1]Komod solution in both eyes 3 times a day) has shown its effectiveness in the course of changes in bulbar conjunctival microcirculation and disturbed total tear secretion in patients of both groups. Conclusion. In patients who went through COVID-19-associated pneumonia, markers of endotheliosis (homocysteine and cystatin C) remain during the period of convalescence, which indicates the severity of endotheliosis and the need for symptomatic metabolic treatment.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW The burden of severe and disabling neurologic injury on survivors, families, and society can be profound. Neurologic outcome prediction, or neuroprognostication, is a complex undertaking with many important ramifications. It allows patients with good prognoses to be supported aggressively, survive, and recover; conversely, it avoids inappropriate prolonged and costly care in those with devastating injuries. RECENT FINDINGS Striving to maintain a high prediction performance during prognostic assessments encompasses acknowledging the shortcomings of this task and the challenges created by advances in medicine, which constantly shift the natural history of neurologic conditions. Embracing the unknowns of outcome prediction and the boundaries of knowledge surrounding neurologic recovery and plasticity is a necessary step toward refining neuroprognostication practices and improving the accuracy of prognostic impressions. The pillars of modern neuroprognostication include comprehensive characterization of neurologic injury burden (primary and secondary injuries), gauging cerebral resilience and estimated neurologic reserve, and tying it all together with individual values surrounding the acceptable extent of disability and the difficulties of an arduous convalescence journey. SUMMARY Comprehensive multimodal frameworks of neuroprognostication using different prognostic tools to portray the burden of neurologic injury coupled with the characterization of individual values and the degree of cerebral reserve and resilience are the cornerstone of modern outcome prediction.

Background Emergency Departments (EDs) have served as critical surveillance sites for infectious diseases. We sought to determine the prevalence and temporal trends of acute (by PCR) and convalescent (by antibody [Ab]) SARS-CoV-2 infection during the earliest phase of the pandemic among patients in an urban ED in Baltimore City. Methods We tested remnant blood samples from 3255 unique ED patients, collected between March 16th and May 31st 2020 for SARS-CoV-2 Ab. PCR for acute SARS-CoV-2 infection from nasopharyngeal swabs was obtained on any patients based on clinical suspicion. Hospital records were abstracted and factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection were assessed. Results Of 3255 ED patients, 8.2% (95%CI: 7.3%, 9.2%) individuals had evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection; 155 PCR+, 78 Ab+, and 35 who were both PCR+ and Ab+. Prevalence of disease increased throughout the study period, ranging from 3.2% (95%CI: 1.8%, 5.2%) PCR+ and 0.6% (95%CI: 0.1%, 1.8%) Ab+ in March, to 6.2% (95%CI: 5.1%, 7.4%) PCR+ and 4.2% (95%CI: 3.3%, 5.3%) Ab+ in May. The highest SARS-CoV-2 prevalence was found in Hispanic individuals who made up 8.4% (95%CI: 7.4%, 9.4%) of individuals screened, but 35% (95%CI: 29%, 41%) of infections (PCR and/or Ab+). Demographic and clinical factors independently associated with acute infection included Hispanic ethnicity, loss of smell or taste, subjective fever, cough, muscle ache and fever. Factors independently associated with convalescent infection were Hispanic ethnicity and low oxygen saturation. Conclusions The burden of COVID-19 in Baltimore City increased dramatically over the 11-week study period and was disproportionately higher among Hispanic individuals. ED-based surveillance methods are important for identifying both acute and convalescent SARS-CoV-2 infections and provides important information regarding demographic and clinical correlates of disease in the local community.

Changing demography with more older people and more patients with chronic diseases as well as the progress of medicine leads to more geriatric patients treated in intensive care and requiring mechanical ventilation due to severe respiratory insufficiency.Frailty is associated with a more complicated intensive care stay, more difficult convalescence and with a higher mortality.In principle, geriatric expertise should be brought in as early as possible in the course of intensive care treatment for older patients in order to carry out adequate risk stratification and, depending on the extent of the impairment, to plan discharge or early rehabilitation.In older and frail patients preexisting chronic ventilatory insufficiency often leads to prolonged weaning. Patients with weaning failure should be referred to a specialized weaning center. Part of the assessment will be whether out-of-hospital invasive or non invasive ventilation is indicated and the wish of the patient.In intensive care the likelihood of a successful outcome and the patient's wishes must constantly be re-evaluated. This is particularly true in older patients. In addition it should be clarified with the patients and relatives what constitutes "success"; for example a patient may consider intensive care "worth it" if the ultimate goal is discharge to their own home but not if nursing home care and tracheostomy ventilation is the best that can be achieved. It may become apparent that a successful outcome is unlikely and then withdrawal of invasive ventilation is appropriate.

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has gradually become a global public health crisis. Some patients who have recovered from COVID-19 subsequently tested positive again for SARS-CoV-2 after discharge (retesting-positive, RTP). However, the underlying mechanism is unknown. Methods: Here, 30 RTP patients, 20 convalescent patients, and 20 healthy controls were enrolled for analysis of the immunological characteristics of their peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Furthermore, we sought to comprehensively characterize the transcriptional changes in the three groups by transcriptome sequencing. Findings: It was found that the absolute numbers of CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and NK cells were not decreased remarkably, while the expression of activation markers on these cells was significantly decreased in RTP patients. Furthermore, the percentage of granzyme B-producing T cells was also decreased in RTP patients compared with that in convalescent patients. Moreover, the high expression of inhibitor of differentiation-1 (ID1) and the low expression of IFITM10 may be associated with the insufficient activation of immune cells and RTP occurrence. Interpretation: Our findings provide insights into the impaired immune function and pathogenesis of RTP occurrence in COVID-19, which may contribute to the development of immunotherapy for RTP patients. Funding Statement: This work was supported by China National Center for Biotechnology Development (2020YFC0843800 and 2020YFC0846800), Ministry of Science and Technology of China (2020TFC0844100), and China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (2020T130112ZX). Declaration of Interests: The authors declare no potential conflict of interest. Ethics Approval Statement: The studies were approved by the Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science & Technology of China (2020-XG(H)-005) and Peking University First Hospital (2020-Research-112) for Emerging Infectious Diseases. Experiments were conducted in accordance with the ethical guidelines of the 1975 Declaration of Helsinki, the Principles of Good Clinical Practice, and the guidelines of China’s regulatory requirements.

The aim is to evaluate the effect of cytomegalovirus on clinical and paraclinical as well as immunological parameters in children with rotavirus infection (RVI). Materials and methods. 50 children aged one to three years, patients with moderate and severe intestinal infections of rotavirus etiology were examined. All children were examined for herpes virus infections types 1, 2, 4, 5, 6. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the level of specific Ig G and Ig M for herpes viruses types 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, and in the case of a positive test, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) determined the presence of DNA (qualitatively) of these herpesviruses. Group 1 (mono-RVI), which was taken as a reference, included 33 children in whom no infection with any of these viruses of the herpes group was detected. Group 2 included 17 patients who underwent RVI on the background of CMV infection, the presence of infection with other viruses of the herpes group was excluded. Immune response parameters (CD 3+, CD 4+, CD 8+, CD 16+, CD 22+, Ig A, Ig M, Ig G, IL 1β, 4, TNF-α) in the acute period of the disease and in the period of convalescence were analyzed. Qualitative indicators were given in the form of absolute and relative (%) value. Significance of differences was determined using Pearson’s χ2 test (Pearson’s Chi-squared test). Quantitative indicators were given in the form of median (Me) and values of lower (LQ) and upper (UQ) quartiles. The significance of differences in quantitative indicators in two unrelated groups was determined using the Mann–Whitney U-test. The threshold value of the confidence level was taken as 0.05. Results. The analysis of the obtained data allows to establish that in the acute period of RVI infection in children with CMV leads to lower figures of temperature reaction, lower vomiting rate, prolongation of hospitalization, along with decrease in leukocytes, CD 16+ (%) cells and immunoregulatory index (CD 4+/CD 8+) against the background of increased levels of monocytes, CD 8+ (%) T-lymphocytes, concentrations of IL-4 and TNF-α. During convalescence, the presence of CMV is associated with an increase in the duration of fever and diarrhea, an increase in monocytes, CD 8+ (%) T cells, concentrations of IL-4, TNF-α and lower figures of immunoregulatory index, CD 16+ (%), CD 22+ (%) T cells and Ig M. Conclusions. Latent cytomegalovirus infection in children with rotavirus gastroenteritis significantly affects a number of clinical and paraclinical as well as immune parameters, which leads to a decrease in the intensity of clinical manifestations in the acute period of the disease and the prolongation of some symptoms during convalescence.

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of patients attending an innovative technology-enhanced pulmonary rehabilitation program of National Health Found Program in Poland. The study included two groups of patients participating in post-COVID-19 stationary rehabilitation. Patients from group I (127 individuals) contracted COVID-19 in 2020, while patients from group II fell ill in 2021 (68 individuals). The study used a self-administered questionnaire. This study was designed as an acceptability study. In the experience related to COVID-19 in both groups of the respondents, the possibility of undertaking inpatient rehabilitation in a hospital ward played an important and positive role. Patients who experienced COVID-19 symptomatically expected that rehabilitation would eliminate the related dysfunctions, such as reduced respiratory efficiency of the lungs, disorders of the nervous system, and cognitive disorders (the so-called brain fog). All respondents who experienced symptomatic COVID-19 positively assessed the rehabilitation program offered. Among the highest-rated rehabilitation, elements were identified: exercise on a cycle ergometer implemented with video stimulation, group fitness exercises, and breathing exercises. Other innovative forms of rehabilitation were positively evaluated by 10% to 25% of patients.

Purpose Although hysterectomy is one of the most frequently performed gynaecological surgeries, there is a dearth of evidence on perioperative care. The aim of the current study was to identify sociodemographic, surgical-related and work-related predictors of recovery following different approaches of hysterectomy. Methods Eligible patients for this retrospective cohort study were women who underwent vaginal, abdominal or laparoscopic hysterectomy for both benign and malignant gynaecological disease in 2014 in Máxima Medical Centre in the Netherlands. The main outcome measure was full return to work (RTW). Data were collected using a patient survey. Potential prognostic factors for time to RTW were examined in univariate Cox regression analyses. The strongest prognostic factors were combined in a multivariable model. Results In total 83 women were included. Median time to full return to work was 8 weeks (interquartile range [IQR] 6–12). The multivariable analysis showed that higher age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.053, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.012–1.095) and same day removal of indwelling catheter (HR 0.122, 95% CI 0.028–0.539) were predictors of shorter duration until full RTW after hysterectomy. Conclusions This study provided insight in the predictors of recovery after hysterectomy. By identifying patient specific factors, pre-operative counselling can be individualized, changes can be made in perioperative care and effective interventions can be designed to target those factors.

The article deals with significant information about sport, its types and special features of sport in the USA and UK. Moreover, several fundamental issues according to given topic were discussed.

Hypoxic exposure is safely associated with exercise for many pathological conditions, providing additional effects on health outcomes. COVID-19 is a new disease, so the physiological repercussions caused by exercise in affected patients and the safety of exposure to hypoxia in these conditions are still unknown. Due to the effects of the disease on the respiratory system and following the sequence of AEROBICOVID research work, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness, tolerance and acute safety of 24 bicycle training sessions performed under intermittent hypoxic conditions through analysis of peripheral oxyhemoglobin saturation (SpO2), heart rate (HR), rate of perceived exertion (RPE), blood lactate concentration ([La−]) and symptoms of acute mountain sickness in patients recovered from COVID-19. Participants were allocated to three training groups: the normoxia group (GN) remained in normoxia (inspired fraction of O2 (FiO2) of ~20.9%, a city with 526m altitude) for the entire session; the recovery hypoxia group (GHR) was exposed to hypoxia (FiO2 ~13.5%, corresponding to 3,000m altitude) all the time except during the effort; the hypoxia group (GH) trained in hypoxia (FiO2 ~13.5%) throughout the session. The altitude simulation effectively reduced SpO2 mean with significant differences between groups GN, GHR, andGH, being 96.9(1.6), 95.1(3.1), and 87.7(6.5), respectively. Additionally, the proposed exercise and hypoxic stimuluswaswell-tolerated, since 93% of participants showed no or moderate acutemountain sickness symptoms; maintained nearly 80% of sets at target heart rate; andmost frequently reporting session intensity as an RPE of “3” (moderate). The internal load calculation, analyzed through training impulse (TRIMP), calculated using HR [TRIMPHR = HR * training volume (min)] and RPE [TRIMPRPE = RPE * training volume (min)], showed no significant difference between groups. The current strategy effectively promoted the altitude simulation and monitoring variables, being well-tolerated and safely acute exposure, as the low Lake Louise scores and the stable HR, SpO2, and RPE values showed during the sessions., 'USP Vida' Project from USP 3518/2020, Integrated Research Projects in Strategic Areas from USP PIPAE 2021.1.10424.1.9, PDU EFISAL - Universidad de la Republica 003051-000603-16

Protective immunity against SARS-CoV-2 infection after COVID-19 vaccination may differ by variant. We enrolled vaccinated (n = 39) and unvaccinated (n = 11) individuals with acute, symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 Delta or Omicron infection and performed SARS-CoV-2 viral load quantification, whole-genome sequencing, and variant-specific antibody characterization at the time of acute illness and convalescence. Viral load at the time of infection was inversely correlated with antibody binding and neutralizing antibody responses. Across all variants tested, convalescent neutralization titers in unvaccinated individuals were markedly lower than in vaccinated individuals. Increases in antibody titers and neutralizing activity occurred at convalescence in a variant-specific manner. For example, among individuals infected with the Delta variant, neutralizing antibody responses were weakest against BA.2, whereas infection with Omicron BA.1 variant generated a broader response against all tested variants, including BA.2.

The aim of the workwas to study the characteristics of the response of non-specific protective factors in tonsillitis of streptococcal etiology in children infected and uninfected with HHV-6 infection at different periods of the disease. Materials and research methods.In 78 children aged 3–15 years, inflammation markers and phagocytic activity of peripheral blood neutrophils (PAN) were determined using the nitroblue tetrazolium reduction test. The studies were carried out in the acute period and in the period of convalescence. Mathematical and statistical processing of the data obtained was carried out using Microsoft Excel 2003 and Statistica 6.0 programs. The significance of differences between the mean values was determined using the Student's test (t). Results. It was found that infection of children with HHV-6 leads to a decrease in the functional activity of neutrophils in the onset of streptococcal tonsillitis compared with uninfected patients (p Conclusions. The presence of VHL-6t infection in a child with streptococcal tonsillitis adversely affects the state of nonspecific protective factors, in particular PAN. The obtained data must be used to optimize the management of patients at different periods of the disease, including at the stages of dispensary observation

Background. Escherichiosis remains one of the most common intestinal infections, especially among young children. Indigestion of essential nutrients, transient fermentopathy, imbalance of the symbiotic flora, which develop in escherichiosis in combination with general intoxication and water-electrolyte disturbances, can lead to unfavorable outcomes. One of the factors influencing the course of escherichiosis can be Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection in the child. Purpose of the research — improvement of treatment of children with escherichiosis and EBV infection in different periods of the disease. Materials and methods. We examined 74 children aged 2–3 years, who were treated at the Regional Children’s Clinical Infectious Diseases Hospital in Kharkiv with a diagnosis of moderate-to-severe escherichiosis. A group of 36 children was selected, who received conventional therapy with early gradual restoration of nutrition according to the existing protocol, and the restoration of the qualitative and quantitative composition of food was carried out as soon as possible (first group). The second group was represented by 38 children, who received two-day prolonged gradual restoration of the diet: more gradual increasing the volume of food at each feeding and reducing the number of feedings per day. Children of the second group received drugs containing Lactobacillus, milk thistle extract and B vitamins (once daily with meals) from the first day. Ultrasound examination of the abdominal cavity was performed in all children. Results. Analysis of the main clinical, laboratory and instrumental parameters of patients in both groups during their stay in the hospital and one month after the discharge from the hospital revealed that in children of the second group, in whom rational diet therapy was applied, there was a reduction in the duration of bowel dysfunction, abdominal syndrome, flatulence; the parameters of the coprological test and the echosonoscopy of the hepatic parenchyma were normalized more quickly. Patients on the optimal diet regained their weight in a shorter period. The proposed methods of improving the therapy made it possible to prevent exacerbation of escherichiosis in children of the second group at the early convalescence stages. Conclusions. Early detection of EBV infection in children with escherichiosis, correction of therapy enable early restoration of physiological processes in the intestine and bile system, normalization of digestion and absorption of nutrients, and generally has a positive effect on the course of the underlying disease.

Background. Currently, there is a tendency to a chronicity of acute respiratory infections, which requires the development of medications to prevent its development. The purpose of the work was to study the clinical and immunological efficacy of the extract of ivy leaves in the treatment of acute simple bronchitis in children. Materials and methods. We have examined 40 children aged 2 to 6 years with acute simple bronchitis, 14 patients received Pectolvan Hedera. During the work, clinical and laboratory methods of investigation were used. The severity of the patient’s condition was assessed according to the Bronchitis severity score. The laboratory study included: general blood and urine test, the use of nasocytological, immunoassay methods. The etiological diagnosis was established on the basis of virological methods of investigation. When determining lactoferrin concentration, Human Lactoferrin HK329 Edition 06-16 set manufactured by Hycult Biotech (USA) was used, neutrophilic a-defensin (1–3) content — Human HNP HK317 Edition 08-16 reagents manufactured by Hycult Biotech (USA). Results. Acute bronchitis in the examined patients is caused by viral agents. In all children with acute simple bronchitis, the disease began acutely and manifested itself with catarrhal and general inflammatory syndromes. The use of Pectolvan Hedera expectorant in the therapy helped to reduce the clinical manifestations of the disease more rapidly, to prevent chronicity, was accompanied by a significant decrease in the number of leukocytes in the nasal mucosa and an increase in the lactoferrin content in the oropharyngeal secretions until the period of convalescence. Conclusions. Extract of ivy leaves is not only a symptomatic expectorant, but also a pathogenetic drug that can be considered a drug of choice in the treatment of acute simple bronchitis in children., Актуальность. В настоящее время наблюдается тенденция к пролонгированному течению острых респираторных инфекций, что требует разработки медикаментозных способов предупреждения его развития. Цель работы — изучение клинико-иммунологической эффективности экстракта листьев плюща обыкновенного при лечении острого простого бронхита у детей. Материалы и методы. Под наблюдением находились 40 детей в возрасте 2–6 лет, больных острым простым бронхитом, 14 детей получали препарат Пектолван Плющ. При проведении работы использовались клинические и лабораторные методы исследования. Тяжесть состояния больного оценивалась по шкале BSS (Bronchitis severity score). Лабораторное исследование включало в себя: общий анализ крови, мочи, назоцитологические, иммуноферментные методы. Этиологический диагноз устанавливался на основании вирусологических методов обследования. При определении концентрации лактоферрина использовался набор Нuman Lactoferrin NK 329 Edition 06-16 производства компании Hycult Biotech (США), нейтрофильных a-дефензинов (1–3) — реактивы Нuman HNP NK317 Edition 08-16 производства компании Hycult Biotech (США). Результаты. Острый бронхит у наблюдавшихся больных вызван вирусными агентами. У всех детей, больных острым простым бронхитом, заболевание начиналось остро и проявлялось катаральным и общевоспалительным синдромами. Применение в терапии отхаркивающего препарата Пектолван Плющ способствовало более быстрому уменьшению клинических проявлений заболевания, предупреждению затяжного течения, сопровождалось достоверным снижением количества лейкоцитов в слизи носовой полости и увеличением содержания лактоферрина в ротоглотковой жидкости к периоду реконвалесценции. Выводы. Экстракт листьев плюща является не только симптоматическим отхаркивающим, но и патогенетическим лекарственным средством, которое можно считать препаратом выбора при лечении острого простого бронхита у детей., Актуальність. Сьогодні спостерігається тенденція до пролонгованого перебігу гострих респіраторних інфекцій, що вимагає розробки медикаментозних способів запобігання його розвитку. Мета роботи — вивчення клініко-імунологічної ефективності екстракту листя плюща звичайного при лікуванні гострого простого бронхіту в дітей. Матеріали та методи. Під наглядом перебували 40 дітей віком 2–6 років, хворих на гострий простий бронхіт, 14 дітей отримувала препарат Пектолван Плющ. При проведенні роботи використовувалися клінічні і лабораторні методи дослідження. Тяжкість стану хворого оцінювалася за шкалою BSS (Bronchitis severity score). Лабораторне дослідження включало: загальний аналіз крові, сечі, назоцитологічні, імуноферментні методи. Етіологічний діагноз установлювався на підставі вірусологічних методів дослідження. При визначенні концентрації лактоферину використовувався набір Нuman Lactoferrin NK 329 Edition 06-16 виробництва компанії Hycult Biotech (США), нейтрофільних a-дефензинів (1–3) — реактиви Нuman HNP NK317 Edition 08-16 виробництва компанії Hycult Biotech (США). Результати. Гострий бронхіт у хворих, які спостерігалися, викликаний вірусними агентами. У всіх дітей, хворих на гострий простий бронхіт, захворювання мало гострий початок і виявлялося катаральним і загальнозапальним синдромами. Застосування в терапії відхаркувального препарату Пектолван Плющ сприяло більш швидкому зменшенню клінічних проявів захворювання, запобіганню затяжному перебігу, супроводжувалося вірогідним зниженням кількості лейкоцитів слизу носової порожнини і збільшенням вмісту лактоферину в ротоглотковій рідині до періоду реконвалесценції. Висновки. Екстракт листя плюща є не тільки симптоматичним відхаркувальним, але й патогенетичним лікарським засобом, який можна вважати препаратом вибору при лікуванні гострого простого бронхіту в дітей.

Introduction The extent of rehabilitation is a key element in promoting functional recovery in patients with stroke. However, the type of rehabilitation therapy that should be provided to improve functional outcomes remains unclear. Objective This study aimed to compare the effects of three different rehabilitation provision systems, namely conventional rehabilitation therapy, conventional rehabilitation therapy plus physical therapy (PT) on weekends, and conventional rehabilitation therapy plus PT and occupational therapy (OT) on weekends, on functional recovery in patients with subacute stroke. Design Retrospective observational cohort study. Setting Convalescence Rehabilitation Hospital. Patients Three hundred and one patients with subacute stroke (mean age, 69.7 ± 12.8 years). Interventions Patients were classified into three groups according to rehabilitation therapy they received: a conventional group (only weekdays PT and OT; n = 70), an additional PT group (additional PT on weekends; n = 119), and an additional PT + OT group (additional PT and OT on weekends; n = 112). Main outcome measure Functional Independence Measure (FIM) effectiveness was calculated as (discharge FIM - admission FIM/maximum FIM - admission FIM) × 100. A multivariate general linear model was used to assess the difference in FIM effectiveness among the groups. Results The mean FIM effectiveness in the conventional, additional PT, and additional PT + OT groups were 39.3 ± 30.1, 43.4 ± 33.2, and 54.3 ± 29.1, respectively. The multivariate analysis revealed a significant difference in FIM effectiveness among the three groups (P = 0.036), and the ηp 2 was 0.02, indicating a small effect. The additional PT + OT group showed significantly greater improvements in FIM effectiveness than the conventional group (mean difference = 8.78, SE = 3.58, 95% confidence interval: 0.17-17.39). Conclusions This study showed that the additional PT + OT group had better functional recovery than did the conventional group. This indicates that increasing the amount of both PT and OT can promote post-stroke functional recovery. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Background: The demonstration that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) enters the cell via the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor has raised concerns that, in hereditary angioedema (HAE), a disease characterized by bradykinin-mediated angioedema attacks, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may trigger angioedema attacks, increase the frequency and/or severity of attacks, or cause more severe symptoms of COVID-19. Objective: The objective was to evaluate the severity of COVID-19 in patients with HAE, the course of HAE attacks, angioedema activity, and the quality-of-life scores during COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Patients diagnosed with HAE for at least 6 months were included in the study. The 7-day Angioedema Activity Score and the Angioedema Quality of Life (AE-QoL) Questionnaire were first completed at the onset of the pandemic between March 12 and June 1, 2020, then during SARS-CoV-2 infection, and in the third month after recovering from COVID-19. Results: Ten of 67 patients with HAE (14.9%) were diagnosed with COVID-19. The median (interquartile range) age of the 10 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 was 35.5 years (28.0‐55.0 years). Six of the 10 patients (60%) were women. During COVID-19, five of the 10 patients (50%) had no angioedema attack. Two patients with severe HAE experienced a significant increase in angioedema activity during COVID-19 compared with their basal activity scores. The remaining three patients had a similar or lower attack frequency than their basal level. Four (40%) of the 10 patients had a relative increase in their attacks during the convalescence period. There was no statistically significant difference among pre-COVID-19, during COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 periods in function, mood, fear and/or shame, nutrition, and total scores of the AE-QoL Questionnaire although the fear dimension was relatively more affected (p = 0.06). Conclusion: Although the sample size was small, analysis of our data supported that the symptoms of COVID-19 were not more severe in HAE. Also, there was no significant difference in the AE-QoL Questionnaire scores, the frequency, and severity of angioedema attacks during the course of COVID-19 in the patients with HAE.

Yang Yu,1,* Wenfeng Wang,2,* Zuquan Xiong,3 Zhenyu Yang,1 Jun Li,1 Yifan Shen,1 Bin Gu1 1Urology Department, Shanghai Pudong New Area People’s Hospital, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China; 2Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China; 3Urology Department, Shanghai Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Bin GuUrology Department, Shanghai Pudong New Area People’s Hospital, 490 Chuanhuan South Road, Shanghai, 201200, People’s Republic of ChinaTel/Fax +86-2120509000Email ibippan3998@163.comPurpose: This study aimed to compare perioperative outcomes of open partial nephrectomy (OPN) and laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) from a retrospective single-center dataset.Patients and Methods: A retrospective single-center analysis of 210 patients who underwent open (n=91) or laparoscopic (n =119) partial nephrectomy for RCC was conducted between 2012 and 2015. All patients were grouped into low complexity, moderate complexity, and high complexity according to the R.E.N.A.L. Nephrometry Score, respectively. The rates of intraoperative and postoperative complications estimated blood loss, warm ischemia time, operative time, conversion of laparoscopic procedure to open surgery, and postoperative length of stay were assessed for both procedures.Results: In low complexity group (n=93), patients undergoing LPN (n=52) under ischemia conditions had significantly longer renal artery clamp time (p < 0.001) and operative time (p = 0.001) compared with OPN (n=41). However, patients undergoing LPN had a significantly less postoperative length of stay (p=0.005) and estimated blood loss (p < 0.001) compared with OPN. There was no statistically significant difference in the rates of complications between LPN and OPN. In the moderate complexity group (n=114), 67 and 47 patients underwent LPN and OPN, respectively. LPN had notably longer warm ischemia time (p < 0.001) and operative time (p < 0.001) compared with OPN. There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of complications, estimated blood loss, and postoperative length of stay between LPN and OPN. In the high complexity group (n=3), all patients underwent OPN.Conclusion: OPN and LPN procedures performed in patients with low and moderate complexity tumors based on the RENAL Nephrometry score offer acceptable and comparable results. When applied to low complexity tumors, our data suggest that laparoscopic NSS is an effective, minimally invasive therapeutic approach with the advantages of less blood loss, earlier hospital discharge, and more rapid convalescence.Keywords: renal cell carcinoma, open partial nephrectomy, laparoscopic partial nephrectomy, R.E.N.A.L. Nephrometry Score

In the present case report, we have described concomitant, rapidly expanding, abdominal and thoracic mycotic aortic pseudoaneurysms in a patient who had originally presented for right arm superficial thrombophlebitis and a right-hand abscess in the presence of methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. Within 12 days, the patient had developed a rapidly expanding paravisceral mycotic abdominal aortic pseudoaneurysm that required open surgical repair. After the initial operation, she developed a thoracic mycotic aortic aneurysm that ultimately required open surgical repair. Her postoperative course after the initial operation was complicated by decompensated hepatitis C cirrhosis that required convalescence before repair of the thoracic aneurysm. Follow-up data were available for ≤10 months after the initial operation.

The article presents a clinical example of the treatment of persistent intestinal dysfunction in a patient with a relapse and in the period of COVID-19 convalescence. Differential approaches to the clinical and laboratory diagnosis of gastrointestinal disorders in patients with COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2 infection and with a high risk of pseudomembranous colitis are considered. The role of bacteriophages in restoring the normal function of the gastrointestinal tract is considered. The total duration of treatment of a patient with a gastrointestinal disorder on the background of relapse and subsequent convalescence of COVID-19 from the moment of treatment was 8 weeks with the active use of anti-inflammatory, sorbing, anticoagulant, antiviral and antibacterial therapy. A significant contribution to the process of clinical improvement was made by the use of intestinal bacteriophage, reducing the risk of pseudomembranous colitis.Conclusions. COVID-19 is a disease characterized by a multisystem lesion and long-term consequences for immunocompetent organs, including the gastrointestinal tract. This fact forces us to reconsider some aspects of traditional therapy for intestinal dysfunction and provides opportunities for new, less aggressive treatments.

Context.— In the face of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic response, it was worthwhile to test the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 convalescent plasma (CCP) transfusion. Objective.— To establish a CCP donation program based on the availability of recovered COVID-19 patients and the practical limitations in recruiting clinically valid donors in a multicultural setting. Design.— From March to June 2020, we developed a program for collection of COVID-19 CCP as part of the treatment options for patients affected with COVID-19. From an initial population of 3746 candidates, only those with positive polymerase chain reaction results in at least 2 separate tests were considered. This filter reduced the eligible donor pool to 488 patients. After other exclusions were applied, such as language barrier, age, accessibility to donation, and comorbidities, the final count was 267 potentially eligible donors, which represented only 54.7% (267 of 488) of preselected candidates. Results.— Eighty donors were called. Approximately a third of the calls provided additional challenges as outlined by the following 4 reasons: limited functional understanding of English; schedule availability due to rotating work timetables; transportation restrictions since public transport services were severely restricted during lockdown; and lost to follow-up. Finally, a total of 38 valid donors participated, upon whom 45 apheresis procedures were performed. Conclusions.— As a summary of our experience, we can conclude that despite the limitations we were able to establish an effective program. A total of 90 units of CCP were collected before the pandemic curve began to flatten toward the end of June 2020.

Background Lymphopenia is a hallmark of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). We aimed to characterize lymphocyte subsets' shifts and their correlations with other severity markers of MIS-C. Methods In this prospective cross-sectional study, we performed peripheral lymphocyte phenotyping in 32 patients with MIS-C. We analyzed lymphocyte subsets at three time-points of the disease: the acute (A), convalescent (B), and recovery (C) phases. Based on age-normalized lymphocyte counts, we distinguished two groups of patients: "the mild" (higher lymphocyte counts) and "the severe" (lower lymphocyte counts). In addition, we examined differences between these groups regarding other severity markers. Results In phase A, 84% of children had lymphopenia. Decreased absolute counts of CD3, CD4, and CD8 cells were observed in, respectively, 88%, 72%, and 84% of patients. The natural killer cells were decreased in 63% and CD19 in 59% of children. "The severe" group had significantly higher procalcitonin and troponin I levels and lower platelets and albumin. Moreover, "the severe" group had hypotension more frequently (73% vs. 20%, p=0.008). In phase B, all lymphocyte counts increased, and 32% of children had lymphocytosis. The increase of CD3, CD4, and CD8 counts correlated with some laboratory severity markers (hemoglobin, procalcitonin, D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase, N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide, albumin), but not with steroid use. In phase C, most children had normal lymphocyte counts. Conclusions Substantial shifts in lymphocyte counts during MIS-C apply most to T lymphocytes and correlate with the disease severity markers, particularly hypotension prevalence. A proportion of children with MIS-C develops transient lymphocytosis during convalescence.

Data on the longevity of humoral and cell-mediated immune responses against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are limited. We evaluated the detailed kinetics of antibody and T-cell responses at the acute, convalescent, and post-convalescent phases in COVID-19 patients with a wide range of severity. We enrolled patients with COVID-19 prospectively from four hospitals and one community treatment center between February 2020 and January 2021. symptom severity was classified as mild, moderate, or severe/critical. Patient blood samples were collected at 1 week (acute), 1 month (convalescent), and 2 months after symptom onset (post-convalescent). Human SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgM antibodies were measured using in-house-developed ELISA. The SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cell responses against overlapping peptides of spike proteins and nucleoprotein were measured by interferon-γ enzyme-linked immunospot assays. Twenty-five COVID-19 patients were analyzed (mild, n = 5; moderate, n = 9; severe/critical, n = 11). IgM and IgG antibody responses peaked at 1 month after symptom onset and decreased at 2 months. IgG response levels were significantly greater in the severe/critical group compared with other groups. Interferon-γ-producing T-cell responses increased between 1 week and 1 month after symptom onset, and had a trend toward decreasing at 2 months, but did not show significant differences according to severity. Our data indicate that SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody responses were greater in those with severe symptoms and waned after reaching a peak around 1 month after symptom onset. However, SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cell responses were not significantly different according to symptom severity, and decreased slowly during the post-convalescent phase.

Background The “time variable” assumes paramount importance, especially regarding facial rejuvenation procedures. Questions regarding the length of recovery time before returning to work, how long the results will last, and the ideal time (age) to undergo this particular type of surgery are the most commonly asked by patients during the initial consultation. Objectives The authors endeavored to determine the healing time, optimal age to perform the surgery, and duration of the results after cosmetic face surgery. Methods A 35-year observational study of 9313 patients who underwent facial surgeries was analyzed. The principal facial rejuvenation interventions were divided into 2 subgroups: (1) eyelid and periorbital surgery, including eyebrow lift, blepharoplasty, and its variants and midface lift; and (2) face and neck lift. Significant follow-ups were conducted after 5, 10, and 20 years. To evaluate the course of convalescence, the degree of satisfaction with the intervention, and the stability of the results, a questionnaire survey was administered to a sample of 200 patients who underwent face and neck lifts. Results The answers given indicated that surgery performed according to rigorous standards allowed for a relatively rapid recovery, and the positive results were stable up to 10 years after surgery. The level of patient satisfaction also remained high even after 20 years. Conclusions The “right time” for a facelift, taking into account age, recovery time, and the longevity of the results, is an important consideration for both the patient and the cosmetic surgeon. Level of Evidence: 4

BACKGROUND: Increasingly, it has been seen that patients recovering from COVID-19 may face a second battle of coping with its mental health ramifications. These psychological issues can even be experienced by patients who were asymptomatic or had mild to moderate symptoms, potentially impacting their quality of life. METHODOLOGY: This was a prospective observational study to analyse the psychological impact of COVID-19 in recovered patients who presented as prospective convalescent plasma (CP) donors. An interview for the psychological assessment of the prospective donors was carried out. Depression and anxiety in the participants were assessed by HAM-A, and HAM-D scores and Quality of Life were assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF scale. RESULTS: A total of 51 prospective donors were assessed, with a mean age of 34.37 (±9.08) years, with the majority being males (46). No clinically significant depression and anxiety were found on the basis of HAM-D and HAM-A scores. The worst affected quality of life parameter, based on the WHOQOL-BREF scale, was physical quality of life followed by environmental, psychological, and social relationships. Moreover, due to infection, social stigma was experienced by 49.02% of the donors, while 21.97% had anxiety related to convalescent plasma donation as a common livid experience. CONCLUSION: Poor quality of life and social stigma during the recovery phase is prevalent in COVID-19 recovered patients, for which formulation of holistic support strategies are the need of the hour.

BackgroundDrug-induced aseptic meningitis is a rare, but challenging diagnosis, most commonly reported with nonsteoroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) is a sulfonamide that is widely used in clinical practice for the treatment and prophylaxis of various infections. The most common side effects associated with TMP/SMX are generally mild and self-limited, but serious side effects have been reported, including liver injury and aseptic meningitis.Case presentationWe report a 2,5 year old Dutch girl with both drug-induced aseptic meningitis and drug-induced liver injury while using TMP/SMX prophylaxis. Ursodeoxycholic acid was started because of cholestatic injury. After cessation of TMP/SMX, full convalescence was reached within weeks.ConclusionsThis is the first report of a young patient with both aseptic meningitis and drug-induced liver injury caused by TMP/SMX. Drug-induced aseptic meningitis and cholestatic hepatitis constitute a considerable diagnostic challenge to clinicians. In addition to a thorough evaluation for infectious causes, clinicians should be aware of drug-induced aseptic meningitis and cholestatic hepatitis.

OBJECTIVE: To explore whether convalescent plasma therapy is beneficial to patients with severe acute respiratory infections and gave hints to the management of COVID-19. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane library was conducted for all eligible studies range from inception to February 29, 2020. Studies with control group were included. Treatment group received convalescent plasma therapy, and control group may receive any therapy other than convalescent plasma therapy. Odds ratios (ORs), mean differences (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled for categorical and continuous outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 1997 patients from 13 studies were included, and seven studies were prospectively designed. Pooled analysis indicated convalescent plasma treatment significantly reduced the mortality by 51% (OR=0.49, 95% CI: 0.36 to 0.67). Subgroup analyses by publication time, study design, and influenza A revealed similar results. Sensitivity analyses suggested that the results were stable. In addition, convalescent plasma therapy reduced mechanical ventilation requirement (OR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.21 to 0.59), while it was not associated with less use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (OR: 2.0, 95% CI: 0.83 to 4.83) and shorter length of hospital stay (MD: -2.20, 95% CI: -4.98 to 0.57days). Pooled estimates showed there was no difference in serious adverse effects between the convalescent plasma treatment and control groups (OR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.50 to 1.13). CONCLUSION: Convalescent plasma therapy significantly reduced the mortality and mechanical ventilation requirements of patients with virus-induced severe acute respiratory infections, without serious adverse effects. More studies are needed to explore whether this treatment can be extrapolated into COVID-19.

Pain is the leading cause of unplanned emergency department visits and readmissions after ureteroscopy, making postoperative analgesic stewardship a priority given the current opioid epidemic. We conducted a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial, with noninferiority design, comparing nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to opiates for postoperative pain control in patients undergoing ureteroscopy for urolithiasis.Patients were randomized and blinded to either oxycodone (5 mg) or ketorolac (10 mg), taken as needed, with 3 nonblinded oxycodone rescue pills for breakthrough pain. Primary study outcome was visual analogue scale pain score on postoperative days 1-5. Secondary outcomes included medication utilization, side effects, and Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire scores.A total of 81 patients were included (43 oxycodone, 38 ketorolac). The 2 groups had comparable patient, stone, and perioperative characteristics. No differences were found in postoperative pain scores, study medication or rescue pill usage, or side effects. Higher maximum pain scores on days 1-5 (p0.05) and higher questionnaire score (28.1 vs 21.7, p=0.045) correlated with analgesic usage, irrespective of treatment group. Patients receiving ketorolac reported significantly fewer days confined to bed (mean±SD 1.3±1.3 vs 2.3±2.6, p=0.02). There was no difference in unscheduled postoperative physician encounters.This is the first double-blinded randomized controlled trial comparing nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opiates post-ureteroscopy, and demonstrates noninferiority of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in pain control with similar efficacy, safety profile, physician contact and notably, earlier convalescence compared to the opioid group. This provides strong evidence against routine opioid use post-ureteroscopy, justifying continued investigation into reducing postoperative opiate prescriptions.