The kidney allocation system does not appropriately stratify risk of pediatric donor kidneys: Implications for pediatric recipients

Kidney Allocation System (KAS) was enacted in 2014 to improve graft utility, while facilitating transplantation of highly-sensitized patients and preserving pediatric access to high-quality kidneys. Central to this system is the Kidney Donor Profile Index (KDPI), a metric intended to predict transplant outcomes based on donor characteristics but derived using only adult donors. We posited that KAS had inadvertently altered the profile and quantity of kidneys made available to pediatric recipients. This question arose from our observation that most pediatric donors carry a KDPI over 35 and have therefore been rendered relatively inaccessible to pediatric recipients under KAS. Here we explore early trends in pediatric transplantation following KAS, including: (i) use of pediatric donors, (ii) use of Public Health System (PHS) high infectious risk donors, (iii) wait time, and (iv) living donor transplantation. We note some concerning preliminary changes following KAS implementation, including the allocation of fewer deceased donor pediatric kidneys to children and stagnation in pediatric wait times. Moreover, the poor predictive power of the KDPI for adult donors appears to be even worse when applied to pediatric donors. These early trends warrant further observation and consideration of changes in pediatric kidney allocation if they persist.

Thrombotic microangiopathies of pregnancy: Differential diagnosis

Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) disorders are characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia and end-organ injury. In pregnancy and postpartum, TMA is most commonly encountered with HELLP (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count syndrome) or preeclampsia with severe features, but rarely TMA is due to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) or atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS). Due to overlapping clinical and laboratory features, TTP and aHUS are often mistaken for preeclampsia or HELLP. Unfortunately, delays in appropriate diagnosis and treatment may be life-threatening. Our objective is to alert obstetrician-gynecologists, certified nurse midwives, family medicine providers, and subspecialty consultants, to the range of TMA disorders that may occur in and around pregnancy. To do this, we have provided a review of individual disorders that comprise the differential diagnosis of pregnancy TMA, and we have proposed a systematic approach to make an accurate diagnosis with readily available clinical and laboratory data. In complex or critical cases, we recommend a multidisciplinary team approach (e.g., Critical Care, Hematology, Maternal Fetal Medicine, Nephrology) to expedite diagnosis and treatment, which may be life-saving.

High-pressure structural and vibrational properties of monazite-type BiPO4, LaPO4, CePO4, and PrPO4

Monazite-type BiPO₄, LaPO₄, CePO₄, and PrPO₄ have been studied under high pressure by ab initio simulations and Raman spectroscopy measurements in the pressure range of stability of the monazite structure. A good agreement between experimental and theoretical Raman-active mode frequencies and pressure coefficients has been found which has allowed us to discuss the nature of the Raman-active modes. Besides, calculations have provided us with information on how the crystal structure is modified by pressure. This information has allowed us to determine the equation of state and the isothermal compressibility tensor of the four studied compounds. In addition, the information obtained on the polyhedral compressibility has been used to explain the anisotropic axial compressibility and the bulk compressibility of monazite phosphates. Finally, we have carried out a systematic discussion on the high-pressure behavior of the four studied phosphates in comparison to results of previous studies.

Surgical Outcome following Breach Rhexis

Purpose

Phacoemulsification cataract surgery is the gold standard for lens removal and continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis is one of the important first steps during the procedure. It is also one of the most difficult steps to master and so has a learning curve and capsulorhexis breach is therefore common among trainees. Once there is capsulorhexis breach, the surgeon could continue with the procedure or convert to extracapsular extraction, with each having its advantages and disadvantages. In our unit, the phacoemulsification procedure is usually continued with some modifications, and the results over a specified period are presented. To report the incidence of breach rhexis during phacoemulsification over a specific period, deduce reasons for the breach, as well as the surgical outcome including other intraoperative and postoperative complications directly resulting from the capsular tear. Interventional case series.

Methods

All patients who developed breach rhexis during routine phacoemulsification had all information regarding the procedure entered into a predesigned ProForma. These ranged from the instruments used for the capsulorhexis to subsequent surgical modification to reduce risk of further complications to the final surgical outcome.

Results

In the study period March 12, 2004, to March 30, 2005, the team carried out 358 phacoemulsifications, of which 20 (0.56%) had breach rhexis. The end of the breach was visible in 70% of cases and equatorial in the rest. None extended to the posterior capsule and so there was no vitreous loss in any of these cases. In most of the cases, the cause of the breach was attributed to inexperience or error of judgment (60%). However, modification of the surgery including the transfer of the procedure to a more experienced surgeon helped to reduce the rate of further complications. Eighty-five percent of the patients achieved a corrected visual acuity of 6/12 or better and those with worse vision had comorbidity.

Conclusions

In this study, the authors showed that, when properly managed, capsular breach during phacoemulsification has little or no effect on the final surgical outcome.

A prospective randomized trial comparing capecitabine-based chemoradiotherapy with 5-FU-based chemoradiotherapy in neoadjuvant setting in locally advanced carcinoma rectum

INTRODUCTION

Fluorouracil (FU)based chemoradiotherapy is regarded as a standard perioperative treatment in locally advanced rectal cancer. Capecitabine is an oral fluoropyrimidine that generates 5FU preferentially at the tumor site by exploiting the higher activity of the enzyme thymidine phosphorylase in tumor tissue compared with healthy tissue. As an oral agent, capecitabine can be administered in the outpatient setting, potentially providing FU exposure similar to a lowdose continuous infusion of 5FU.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To compare capecitabine with 5FU, with regard to efficacy and toxicity when used in neoadjuvant setting along with radiotherapy for locally advanced carcinoma rectum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty patients were enrolled, 14 in 5FU and 16 in capecitabine arm. All patients were planned for 45 Gy/25#/5 weeks pelvic radiotherapy followed by a boost of 5.4 Gy/3#/3 days. 5FU was prescribed at a dose of 500 mg/m2 #1-#5 and #21-#25 of RT and capecitabine was given at 1650 mg/m2 on RT days throughout the course of radiotherapy. A magnetic resonance imaging/computerized tomography scan was done at the start of treatment and 1 month after completion of treatment, followed by surgery. Toxicity was assessed weekly during treatment and on the first followup.

RESULTS

Response rates and toxicity profile of capecitabinebased cathode ray tube (CRT) was similar to 5FUbased CRT with nonsignificant P values.

CONCLUSION

Capecitabine may be used as an alternative in patients who do not tolerate 5FU.

Phenotypic Prenatal Diagnosis of Chronic Granulomatous Disease: A Useful Tool in The Absence Of Molecular Diagnosis

Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is an inherited immunodeficiency disorder affecting the microbicidal function of the phagocytes. It is characterized by susceptibility to recurrent infections leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Antibacterial and antifungal prophylaxis, though, has significantly reduced the rate and severity of the infections; the breakthrough infections still remain a challenge. Currently, allogenic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation is the only curative option which is very expensive and unavailable for many due to lack of suitable donor. Thus, prenatal diagnosis (PND) forms an important component of management in the affected families. PND is challenging in families approaching late in pregnancy with an uncharacterized molecular defect. In such cases, PND can be performed by analysis of NADPH activity of fetal blood (FB) neutrophils at 18-20 weeks of gestation. Cord blood samples at 18 weeks of gestation from healthy control were used to establish normal ranges for NBT and DHR. PND was offered for six pregnancies (NBT: n = 3, DHR: n = 6) with index cases of CGD confirmed by abnormal NBT and DHR analysis. NBT and DHR tests were found to be negative for all the six cases, confirming the same on samples post-delivery. NBT and DHR tests offer a rapid and sensitive PND of CGD in the absence of facilities for molecular diagnosis. It was observed that addition of CD15 along with CD45 led to an accurate DHR analysis. It is recommended to perform the diagnosis with adequate precautions only at centres with considerable experience and expertise in the diagnosis of CGD.

Antibiotic Usage and its Culture Sensitivity Pattern in Urinary Tract Infections at Tertiary Hospital in Eastern Nepal

Background The presence of microbial pathogen in the urinary tract is Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). In BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS), each year there are around 1000 cases of UTIs. Antibiotic is empirically started after sending culture/sensitivity (c/s) with intention to change antibiotic if c/s demands. Objective To see the antimicrobial prescribing pattern and c/s pattern of UTI inpatients of BPKIHS together with their socio-demographic and laboratory profile. Method It was a Record-Based Retrospective Descriptive Study of past one-year. All available inpatient-records from Medical-Record Section were extensively searched for the keyword "UTI" diagnosis. The relevant data were entered in Microsoft Excel-sheet and analyzed with IBM SPSS 21. Ethical clearance was obtained from the IRC before study. Result There were 86 cases from four different wards. There was slight female preponderance (51.16%). Fifty-five (63.95%) cases were complicated. Fever (75.51%) was the most common symptom. Only 20% were tachycardic but 90% were tachypnic. Leucocytosis (59.26%), urine albumin within 30-100 mg/dl (33.85%) and >5 Urine WBC/hpf (80.26%) were seen. Ceftiaxone (53.16%) was the most commonly prescribed empirical antibiotic, followed by Cefixime (6.32%). Fourteen (16.27%) cases were culture positive. E. coli was the most (78.57%) common pathogen grown. In culture sensitivity study, Amikacin (42.85%) was the most sensitive antibiotic. Conclusion Eighty-six UTI inpatients were identified last year. Fever and Tachypnoea were very common. Leucocytosis, 1+ proteinuria and urine WBC>5/hpf were frequently seen. Ceftriaxone was the most common antibiotic prescribed. E. coli was the most common pathogen grown and Amikacin was the most sensitive antibiotic.

Successful Treatment of BK Virus Hemorrhagic Cystitis (HC) Post Allogenic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation with Low Dose Cidofovir

BK virus (BKV) hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) is a serious cause of morbidity and mortality after allogeneic hematopoietic SCT (allo-HSCT) in patients with hematological malignancies. Around half of allogenic HSCT patients present with BKV viruria at some point after HSCT; about 5-40% of these patients subsequently develop active HC. Supportive care including bladder irrigation, blood transfusions and symptomatic pain management remains the mainstay of therapy; the acyclic nucleoside analogue cidofovir is currently the front-line drug for BKV-HC treatment. Here we report the first case of severe hemorrhagic cystitis from India who was successfully treated with low dose cidofovir therapy.

Prevalence of high-risk human papilloma virus types and cervical smear abnormalities in female sex workers in Chandigarh, India

PURPOSE

Cervical cancer is the most common cancer among women in developing nations. Nearly 90% of the cases have been linked to the presence of high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) types 16 and 18. The risk of cervical cancer may be high in female sex workers (FSWs) due to multiple sexual partners. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of cytological abnormalities and hrHPV types 16 and 18 in FSWs in Chandigarh, North India using the liquid-based cytology (LBC) approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cervical brush samples were collected from 120 FSW and 98 age-matched healthy controls (HCs). These were subjected to pap smear using conventional method, LBC and the detection of hrHPV types 16 and 18 was carried out using polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

The LBC samples showed better cytological details and also reduced the number of unsatisfactory smears from 11% in Pap to 1.5% in the LBC. A significantly higher number of inflammatory smears were reported in FSWs (51.7% vs. 34.7%, P = 0.01). The hrHPV types 16/18 were detected in 33/120 (27.5%) FSW versus 23/98 (23.5%) HCs. The risk of acquiring hrHPV was higher in FSWs, who had age at first sex ≤25 years, higher income and the habit of smoking.

CONCLUSION

The high prevalence of hrHPV among FSWs and HCs suggests the need for the implementation of effective National Screening Programme for early detection of hrHPV types to decrease the burden of cervical cancer, especially in high-risk population.

Quantitative Characterization of the Exposure-Response Relationship for Cancer Immunotherapy: A Case Study of Nivolumab in Patients With Advanced Melanoma

To inform the benefit-risk assessment of nivolumab in patients with advanced melanoma, analyses of efficacy and safety exposure-response (E-R) relationships were conducted with data from patients with advanced melanoma enrolled in two clinical studies (phase I and phase III) who received nivolumab 0.1-10.0 mg/kg every 2 weeks. E-R efficacy analyses were performed by relating the nivolumab time-averaged concentration after the first dose (Cavg1 ) to two endpoints: RECIST objective response (OR) and overall survival (OS). E-R safety analyses characterized the relationship between nivolumab Cavg1 and the hazard of all-causality adverse events leading to discontinuation or death (AE-DC/D). Nivolumab exposure represented by Cavg1 was not a significant predictor of OR, OS, or the hazard of AE-DC/D. E-R efficacy and safety relationships were relatively flat over the exposure range.