LGR4 attenuates MGP expression and suppresses EGFR activation-induced triple-negative breast cancer metastasis

Breast cancer has emerged as the most common cancer globally, with a significant reduction in overall survival rate after metastasis. Compared with other types of breast cancer, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is more prone to metastasize, presenting substantial treatment challenges due to the lack of effective therapies. LGR4, which is highly expressed in breast cancer, has been shown to promote the proliferation and invasion of breast cancer cells. However, its specific role in TNBC remains unclear. In this study, we applied a multi-omics approach to explore the regulatory mechanism of LGR4 in TNBC metastasis. Our findings showed that LGR4 could regulate actin cytoskeletal through EGFR and curtail EGFR activation-induced TNBC metastasis by inhibiting MGP expression. These insights provide new perspectives on the role of LGR4 in breast cancer metastasis.

The Effect of Selected Nitric Oxide Synthase Polymorphisms on the Risk of Developing Diabetic Nephropathy

BACKGROUND

Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is an enzyme that catalyzes the formation of nitric oxide (NO), the altered production of which is characteristic of diabetic nephropathy. NOS exists in three isoforms: NOS1, NOS2, and NOS3. Moreover, there are reports about the potential role of NOS3 polymorphisms in the development of diabetes complications. The aim of this study was to assess the role of selected NOS polymorphisms-rs3782218 (NOS1), rs1137933 (NOS2), rs1799983, rs2070744, and rs61722009 (NOS3)-in the risk of developing diabetic nephropathy and in the likelihood of renal replacement therapy.

METHODS

The studied polymorphisms were analyzed in a group of 232 patients divided into three groups. Four polymorphisms (rs3782218, rs1137933, rs1799983, rs2070744) were genotyped using the PCR-RFLP, while the rs61722009 polymorphism was genotyped using the PCR.

RESULTS

The C/C genotype and the C allele of the rs3782218 polymorphism (NOS1) were associated with an increased risk of developing diabetic nephropathy and an increased likelihood of renal replacement therapy. In turn, the G allele of the rs1137933 polymorphism (NOS2) reduces the likelihood of renal replacement therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The specific genotypes or alleles of the rs3782218 (NOS1) and rs1137933 (NOS2) polymorphisms seem to be potential risk factors for diabetic nephropathy and renal replacement therapy.

The mediating effect of after-midnight use of digital media devices on the association of internet-related addictive behavior and insomnia in adolescents

Background

There is evidence that overexposure to digital media devices (DMD) can not only lead to addictive patterns of internet use, but also cause insomnia symptoms. The aim of this cross-sectional study among adolescents is to provide an estimate of the prevalence of sleep impairments and to explore the mediating role of after-midnight use of DMD between internet-related addictive behavior (IRAB) and insomnia.

Methods

2,712 school students from Styrian schools participated in a population-representative online survey in a supervised school setting in spring 2022. School students were screened using established and validated scales. Data analysis was carried out using multiple imputation, linear multilevel regression and mediation analysis.

Results

Prevalence estimation indicates high proportions of clinically relevant moderate [12.6% (11.3%; 14.1%)] and severe [3.6% (2.9%; 4.4%)] insomnia, with an additional 30.6% (29.0%; 32.2%) at subthreshold level. DMD are typically used after midnight an average of 1.66 (1.58; 1.75) evenings with subsequent school day per school week. Linear multilevel regression analysis shows significant associations for sleep disparities as outcome variable e.g., with generalized anxiety [b = 0.329 (0.287; 0.371)], after-midnight use of DMD [b = 0.470 (0.369; 0.572)] and IRAB [b = 0.131 (0.097; 0.165)]. Mediation analysis shows a mediated proportion of 18.2% (13.0%; 25.0%) of the association of IRAB and insomnia by after-midnight use of DMD [Indirect effect: b = 0.032 (0.023; 0.040), direct effect: b = 0.127 (0.083; 0.170)].

Conclusions

Although the cross-sectional nature of this study limits causal inference, the results indicate a need for policies, which are already in preparation in Styria as part of a respective action plan.

Biomarkers of chronic kidney disease in older individuals: navigating complexity in diagnosis

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in older individuals is a matter of growing concern in the field of public health across the globe. Indeed, prevalence of kidney function impairment increases with advancing age and is often exacerbated by age-induced modifications of kidney function, presence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disorders, and increased burden related to frailty, cognitive impairment and sarcopenia. Accurate assessment of CKD in older individuals is crucial for timely intervention and management and relies heavily on biomarkers for disease diagnosis and monitoring. However, the interpretation of these biomarkers in older patients may be complex due to interplays between CKD, aging, chronic diseases and geriatric syndromes. Biomarkers such as serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and albuminuria can be significantly altered by systemic inflammation, metabolic changes, and medication use commonly seen in this population. To overcome the limitations of traditional biomarkers, several innovative proteins have been investigated as potential, in this review we aimed at consolidating the existing data concerning the geriatric aspects of CKD, describing the challenges and considerations in using traditional and innovative biomarkers to assess CKD in older patients, highlighting the need for integration of the clinical context to improve biomarkers' accuracy.

Emergency CT Scans: Unveiling the Risks of Contrast-Associated Acute Kidney Injury

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to identify the incidence and risk factors for contrast-associated acute kidney injury nephropathy (CA-AKI) in patients undergoing contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CCT) in the emergency department.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective single-center study, patients aged 18 and older who visited the emergency department and underwent CCT between January and February 2022 were included. The Mehran score, calculated from patient data, was used to assess risk. CA-AKI development was determined by measuring serum creatinine (SCr) levels 48-72 h post-contrast administration.

RESULTS

The study included 532 patients, with a mean age of 57 ± 19 years; 53.2% were male. CA-AKI developed in 16% of cases, 5.82% required hemodialysis, and 7.9% died. The Mehran score was the only significant predictor of CA-AKI development. Patients with a Mehran score of 16 or higher had a 161-fold increased risk of developing CA-AKI compared to those with a score of 5 or lower. The model achieved a 91.3% correct classification rate. Logistic regression analysis showed that CA-AKI significantly increased mortality risk by 15.7 times.

CONCLUSION

The Mehran score, originally developed for predicting CA-AKI risk post-coronary intervention, is also effective for predicting CA-AKI risk after CCT. While CA-AKI is a significant factor affecting mortality, it is not the sole cause of death (Nagelkerke R2 value 0.310).

Correlation of physical function and physical activity with muscle mass measured with computed tomography in adult hemodialysis patients

BACKGROUND

muscle mass (MM) plays an important role in the physical function of hemodialysis patients; however, muscle mass measurement can be unreliable and expensive. In contrast, the measurement of physical function (PF) is simple and inexpensive and may serve as an alternative. The aim of this study was to correlate the measurement of MM by computed tomography (CT) with physical function measurements and physical activity (PA) levels in HD patients.

METHODS

this was a cross-sectional study that included 38 HD patients from a single HD clinic. Each participant had a CT scan to measure mid-thigh muscle mass. Physical function tests were assessed using the six-minute walk test (SMWT), handgrip strength (HGS) test, 5 x sit-to-stand test (STS5), timed up and go test (TUGT) and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), while physical activity levels were measured using the Godin-Shephard leisure-time physical activity questionnaire. Correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between variables.

RESULTS

handgrip strength was strongly positively correlated with thigh muscle area (r = 0.656, p ≤ 0.001) and weakly correlated with arm muscle area (r = 0.396, p = 0.002), SMWT (r = 0.373, p = 0.004), SPPB (r = 0.269, p = 0.041) and physical activity (r = 0.323, p = 0.013). There was also a trend for an inverse correlation between handgrip strenght and TUGT (r = -0.235, p = 0.076). Positive correlations were found between the thigh muscle area and the SPPB (r = 0.339, p = 0.009) and PA (r = 0.293, p = 0.025), while there was a trend for an inverse correlation between thigh muscle area and STS5 (r = -0.256, p = 0.052).

CONCLUSION

several measures of PF and strenght were correlated with objectives measurements of MM, thus provide options for low-cost measurements related to muscle mass.

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex and the kidneys: what nephrologists need to know

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by the development of hamartomas in the central nervous system, heart, skin, lungs, and kidneys and other manifestations including seizures, cortical tubers, radial migration lines, autism and cognitive disability. The disease is associated with pathogenic variants in the TSC1 or TSC2 genes, resulting in the hyperactivation of the mTOR pathway, a key regulator of cell growth and metabolism. Consequently, the hyperactivation of the mTOR pathway leads to abnormal tissue proliferation and the development of solid tumors. Kidney involvement in TSC is characterized by the development of cystic lesions, renal cell carcinoma and renal angiomyolipomas, which may progress and cause pain, bleeding, and loss of kidney function. Over the past years, there has been a notable shift in the therapeutic approach to TSC, particularly in addressing renal manifestations. mTOR inhibitors have emerged as the primary therapeutic option, whereas surgical interventions like nephrectomy and embolization being reserved primarily for complications unresponsive to clinical treatment, such as severe renal hemorrhage. This review focuses on the main clinical characteristics of TSC, the mechanisms underlying kidney involvement, the recent advances in therapy for kidney lesions, and the future perspectives.

Bilateral renal hemorrhage in an anticoagulated patient: A rare case of Wunderlich syndrome

We describe a rare case of Wunderlich syndrome with bilateral renal hemorrhage in a patient under anticoagulant therapy for atrial fibrillation. An 84-year-old woman came to our department complaining of acute bilateral flank pain. Clinical and laboratory examinations revealed a condition of hypovolemic shock. An abdominal contrast-enhanced CT scan detected the presence of a bilateral hemorrhage affecting the peri- and para-renal spaces. Planning an appropriate management strategy considering the anticoagulated treatment required a multidisciplinary approach in the case of the Wunderlich syndrome diagnosis.

Dietitians' practices in dialysis units in Brazil: nutritional assessment and intervention

INTRODUCTION

The importance of dietitians in dialysis units is indisputable and mandatory in Brazil, but little is known about the practices adopted by these professionals.

OBJECTIVE

To know practices adopted in routine nutritional care, focusing on nutritional assessment tools and treatment strategies for people at risk or diagnosed with malnutrition.

METHODOLOGY

Electronic questionnaire disseminated on social media and messaging applications. It included questions that covered dietitians' demographic and occupational profile characteristics and of the dialysis unit, use and frequency of nutritional assessment tools, nutritional intervention strategies in cases of risk or diagnosis of malnutrition, prescription and access to oral supplements.

RESULTS

Twenty four percent of the Brazilian dialysis units (n = 207) responded electronically. The most used nutritional assessment tools with or without a pre-established frequency were dietary surveys (96%) and Subjective Global Assessment (83%). The strategies in cases of risk or presence of malnutrition used most frequently (almost always/always) were instructions to increase energy and protein intake from foods (97%), and increasing the frequency of visits (88%). The frequency of prescribing commercial supplements with standard and specialized formulas was quite similar. The availability of dietary supplements by the public healthcare system to patients varied between regions.

CONCLUSION

Most dietitians use various nutritional assessment tools and intervention strategies in cases of risk or malnutrition; however, the frequency of use of such tools and strategies varied substantially.

International variations in serum PTH and calcium levels and their mortality associations in peritoneal dialysis patients: Results from PDOPPS

BACKGROUND

Mineral bone disorder (MBD) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with high symptom burden, fractures, vascular calcification, cardiovascular disease and increased morbidity and mortality. CKD-MBD studies have been limited in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Here, we describe calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) control, related treatments and mortality associations in PD patients.

METHODS

We used data from eight countries (Australia and New Zealand (A/NZ), Canada, Japan, Thailand, South Korea, United Kingdom, United States (US)) participating in the prospective cohort Peritoneal Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (2014-2022) among patients receiving PD for >3 months. We analysed the association of baseline PTH and albumin-adjusted calcium (calciumAlb) with all-cause mortality using Cox regression, adjusted for potential confounders, including serum phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase.

RESULTS

Mean age ranged from 54.6 years in South Korea to 63.5 years in Japan. PTH and serum calciumAlb were measured at baseline in 12,642 and 14,244 patients, respectively. Median PTH ranged from 161 (Japan) to 363 pg/mL (US); mean calciumAlb ranged from 9.1 (South Korea, US) to 9.8 mg/dL (A/NZ). The PTH/mortality relationship was U-shaped, with the lowest risk at PTH 300-599 pg/mL. Mortality was nearly 20% higher at serum calciumAlb 9.6+ mg/dL versus 8.4-<9.6 mg/dL. MBD therapy prescriptions varied substantially across countries.

CONCLUSIONS

A large proportion of PD patients in this multi-national study have calcium and/or PTH levels in ranges associated with substantially higher mortality. These observations point to the need to substantially improve MBD management in PD to optimise patient outcomes.

LAY SUMMARY

Chronic kidney disease-mineral bone disorder (MBD) is a systemic condition, common in dialysis patients, that results in abnormalities in parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D metabolism. A large proportion of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients in this current multi-national study had calcium and/or PTH levels in ranges associated with substantially higher risks of death. Our observational study design limits our ability to determine whether these abnormal calcium and PTH levels cause more death due to possible confounding that was not accounted for in our analysis. However, our findings, along with other recent work showing 48-75% higher risk of death for the one-third of PD patients having high phosphorus levels (>5.5 mg/dL), should raise strong concerns for a greater focus on improving MBD management in PD patients.

An overview of circulating and urinary biomarkers capable of predicting the transition of acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease

INTRODUCTION

Acute kidney injury (AKI) defined by a substantial decrease in kidney function within hours to days and is often irreversible with higher risk to chronic kidney disease (CKD) transition.

AREAS COVERED

The authors discuss the diagnostic and predictive utilities of serum and urinary biomarkers on AKI and on the risk of AKI-to-CKD progression. The authors focus on the relevant literature covering evidence of circulating and urinary biomarkers' capability to predict the transition of AKI to CKD.

EXPERT OPINION

Based on the different modalities of serum and urinary biomarkers, multiple biomarker panel seems to be potentially useful to distinguish between various types of AKI, to detect the severity and the risk of AKI progression, to predict the clinical outcome and evaluate response to the therapy. Serum/urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), serum/urinary uromodulin, serum extracellular high mobility group box-1 (HMGB-1), serum cystatin C and urinary liver-type fatty acid-binding protein (L-FABP) were the most effective in the prediction of AKI-to-CKD transition regardless of etiology and the presence of critical state in patients. The current clinical evidence on the risk assessments of AKI progression is mainly based on the utility of combination of functional, injury and stress biomarkers, mainly NGAL, L-FABP, HMGB-1 and cystatin C.

Quantitative susceptibility mapping for detection of kidney stones, hemorrhage differentiation, and cyst classification in ADPKD

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The objective is to demonstrate feasibility of quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) patients and to compare imaging findings with traditional T1/T2w magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

METHODS

Thirty-three consecutive patients (11 male, 22 female) diagnosed with ADPKD were initially selected. QSM images were reconstructed from the multiecho gradient echo data and compared to co-registered T2w, T1w, and CT images. Complex cysts were identified and classified into distinct subclasses based on their imaging features. Prevalence of each subclass was estimated.

RESULTS

QSM visualized two renal calcifications measuring 9 and 10 mm and three pelvic phleboliths measuring 2 mm but missed 24 calcifications measuring 1 mm or less and 1 larger calcification at the edge of the field of view. A total of 121 complex T1 hyperintense/T2 hypointense renal cysts were detected. 52 (43%) Cysts appeared hyperintense on QSM consistent with hemorrhage; 60 (49%) cysts were isointense with respect to simple cysts and normal kidney parenchyma, while the remaining 9 (7%) were hypointense. The presentation of the latter two complex cyst subtypes is likely indicative of proteinaceous composition without hemorrhage.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that QSM of ADPKD kidneys is possible and uniquely suited to detect large renal calculi without ionizing radiation and able to identify properties of complex cysts unattainable with traditional approaches.

Relapsing nephrotic syndrome with acute renal failure following a unique episode of multiple bee stings: A case report

The commonest renal involvement after bee stings is acute kidney injury due to rhabdomyolysis. Nephrotic syndrome combined with AKI is unusual complication of Hymenoptera stings. We diagnosed a minimal change disease and six-year follow up relapses.

Depression and Quality of Life Among Haemodialysis Patients

Introduction

Depression is likely to be the most common psychopathology in haemodialysis patients. It might affect their adherence to treatment and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. However, the prevalence of depression in haemodialysis patients has not been definitively determined, and it is generally underdiagnosed and undertreated. Chronic renal failure (CRF) patients have diminished quality of life (QOL) scores compared with healthy persons. Moreover, patients on haemodialysis might have worse QOL than those on peritoneal dialysis.

Objectives

To assess the level of depression and quality of life among haemodialysis patients.

Methodology

The research design adopted for this study was quantitative method. The population includes patient undergoing haemodialysis in SMCH. The sample size was 60 selected through convenience sampling technique on the basis of criteria.

Result

The findings revealed that 30 (50%) had severe depression, 26 (43.34%) had moderate depression, and 2 (3.33%) had borderline clinical depression and extreme depression, respectively. The mean score of overall quality of life score among haemodialysis patients was 34.66 ± 7.16.

Conclusion

The analysis revealed that haemodialysis patients had severe to moderate depression, which in turn reduces the quality of life of the haemodialysis patients.

The Future of Kidney Care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Challenges, Triumphs, and Opportunities

CKD affects about 850 million people worldwide and is projected to be the fifth leading cause of death by 2040. Individuals from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) bear the bulk of CKD. They face challenges including lack of awareness among the general population, as well as health care providers, unique risk factors such as genetic predispositions, infectious diseases, and environmental toxins, limited availability and affordability of diagnostic tests and medications, and limited access to KRTs. The inadequate health system infrastructure, human resources, and financing mechanisms to support comprehensive and integrated kidney care worsen the situation. Overcoming these challenges needs concerted efforts toward early detection, intervention, and multidisciplinary follow-up, policy, collaboration, advocacy, and financing. To achieve this, there is need for individual governments to include kidney health among the key health priorities and build capacity toward resilient health care systems. Integrating kidney care using the roadmaps of well-established management systems for other chronic diseases, such as HIV, has the potential to expedite the widespread adoption of kidney health. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the current state and future prospects of kidney care in LMICs, highlighting the main challenges, ongoing efforts, and opportunities for improvement. We present case studies of exemplary efforts from three continents of the world with the highest densities of LMICs and propose potential strategies for a sustainable solution.

IgA vasculitis after COVID-19: a case-based review

IgA-associated vasculitis (IgAV) known as Henoch - Schönlein purpura (HSP) disease is an inflammatory disorder of small blood vessels. It's the most common type of systemic vasculitis in children which can be associated with the inflammatory process following infections. IgA vasculitis is a rare and poorly understood systemic vasculitis in adults. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been associated with HSP in both adults and children. A 58-year-old woman was diagnosed with HSP, fulfilling the clinical criteria: palpable purpura, arthritis, hematuria. The disclosure of the HSP disease was preceded by a infection of the respiratory tract. COVID-19 infection was confirmed via the presence of IgM and IgG antibodies. This case indicates the possible role of SARS-CoV-2 in the development of HSP. The clinical course of IgAV in adults appears to be different from pediatric IgAV, especially due to higher risk of renal complications. Symptoms of the disease quickly resolved with low-dose of steroids.

The role of podocyte injury in the pathogenesis of Fabry disease nephropathy

Renal involvement is one of the most severe morbidities of Fabry disease (FD), a multisystemic lysosomal storage disease with an X-linked inheritance pattern. It results from pathogenic variants in the GLA gene (Xq22.2), which encodes the production of alpha-galactosidase A (α-Gal), responsible for glycosphingolipid metabolism. Insufficient activity of this lysosomal enzyme generates deposits of unprocessed intermediate substrates, especially globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) and derivatives, triggering cellular injury and subsequently, multiple organ dysfunction, including chronic nephropathy. Kidney injury in FD is classically attributed to Gb3 deposits in renal cells, with podocytes being the main target of the pathological process, in which structural and functional alterations are established early and severely. This configures a typical hereditary metabolic podocytopathy, whose clinical manifestations are proteinuria and progressive renal failure. Although late clinical outcomes and morphological changes are well established in this nephropathy, the molecular mechanisms that trigger and accelerate podocyte injury have not yet been fully elucidated. Podocytes are highly specialized and differentiated cells that cover the outer surface of glomerular capillaries, playing a crucial role in preserving the structure and function of the glomerular filtration barrier. They are frequent targets of injury in many nephropathies. Furthermore, dysfunction and depletion of glomerular podocytes are essential events implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease progression. We will review the biology of podocytes and their crucial role in regulating the glomerular filtration barrier, analyzing the main pathogenic pathways involved in podocyte injury, especially related to FD nephropathy.

The Effect of Sleep Habits on Quality of Life in Pediatric Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease

BACKGROUND

Sleep disturbance has been studied in adult patients with early and end-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, there are limited publications on the pediatric patient population. This paper evaluated the association between sleep disturbances and quality of life (QoL) in pediatric patients with CKD.

METHODS

 The study included 22 patients and 22 healthy controls from the pediatric nephrology outpatient clinic. All participants completed the Turkish Generic Health-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire for Children and Adolescents (HRQoLQ) and the Child Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ). Patients diagnosed with CKD were compared in terms of HRQoLQ and CSHQ scores within themselves as kidney replacement therapy (KRT) recipients and non-recipients and with the control group.

RESULTS

The mean HRQoLQ total score of the patients was 89.0 ± 12.4 and the mean CSHQ total score was 46.7 ± 5.6; there was no correlation between the total scores (p=0.599). CSHQ total and subgroup scores were similar in patients with and without KRT. The CSHQ total and subgroup median scores were not different in the patient and control groups. According to the HRQoL scale, the total QoL score and the physical and emotional well-being subscale scores were lower in patients receiving KRT than in those not receiving KRT.

CONCLUSION

Sleep problems and HRQoL should not be underestimated in the pediatric CKD population, especially in patients receiving KRT. Large-scale studies with long-term outcomes are needed to understand better and improve QoL.

Clinical presentation and management of atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome in Latin America: a narrative review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Comprehensive information about atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is relatively scarce outside of Europe and North America. This narrative review assembles available published data about the clinical presentation and management of aHUS in Latin America.

AREAS COVERED

A search conducted in February 2023 of the MEDLINE (from inception), Embase (from inception), and LILACS/IBECS (1950 to 2023) databases using search terms 'atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome' and 'Latin America' and their variations retrieved 51 records (full papers and conference abstracts) published in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. After de-duplication, manual screening of titles/abstracts and addition of author-known articles, 25 articles were included of which 17 (68%) are full papers. All articles were published during the years 2013-2022. Articles include cohort studies, a registry analysis, and case reports from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Columbia. Overall, Latin American patients with aHUS present the classic epidemiological, clinical, and genetic characteristics associated with this condition as described in other world regions. Depending on the country and time of reporting, aHUS in Latin America was treated mainly with plasma therapy and/or eculizumab. Where reported, eculizumab substantially improved aHUS-related outcomes in almost all adult and pediatric patients.

EXPERT OPINION

Eculizumab has dramatically altered the natural course of aHUS, improving prognosis and patient outcomes. Addressing economic challenges and investing in healthcare infrastructure will be essential to implement strategies for timely detection and early treatment of aHUS in Latin America.

Risk factors for recurrence in pediatric urinary stone disease

BACKGROUND

Children's urinary system stones may develop from environmental, metabolic, anatomical, and other causes. Our objective is to determine the recurrence and prognosis, demographic, clinical, and etiological characteristics of children with urolithiasis.

METHODS

Medical records of patients were evaluated retrospectively. Patients' demographic data and medical history, serum/urine biochemical and metabolic analysis, blood gas analysis, stone analysis, imaging findings, and medical/surgical treatments were recorded.

RESULTS

The study included 364 patients (male 187). Median age at diagnosis was 2.83 (IQR 0.83-8.08) years. The most common complaints were urinary tract infection (23%) and urine discoloration (12%). Sixty-two percent had a family history of stone disease. At least one metabolic disorder was found in 120 (88%) of 137 patients having all metabolic analyses: hypercalciuria was found in 45%, hypocitraturia in 39%, and hyperoxaluria in 37%. Anatomical abnormalities were detected in 18% of patients. Of 58 stones analyzed, 65.5% were calcium and 20.6% were cystine stones. Stone recurrence rate was 15% (55/364). Older age (> 5 years), family history of stone disease, stone size (≥ 5 mm), and urinary system anatomical abnormalities were significantly associated with stone recurrence (p = 0.027, p = 0.031, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). In adjusted logistic regression analysis, stone size ≥ 5 mm (OR 4.85, 95% CI 2.53-9.3), presence of urinary system anatomical abnormalities (OR 2.89, 95% CI 1.44-5.78), and family history of stone disease (OR 2.41, 95% CI 1.19-4.86) had increased recurrence rate.

CONCLUSIONS

All children with urolithiasis should be evaluated for factors affecting stone recurrence. Children at higher risk of recurrence need to be followed carefully.

Common arboviruses and the kidney: a review

Arboviruses are endemic in several countries and represent a worrying public health problem. The most important of these diseases is dengue fever, whose numbers continue to rise and have reached millions of annual cases in Brazil since the last decade. Other arboviruses of public health concern are chikungunya and Zika, both of which have caused recent epidemics, and yellow fever, which has also caused epidemic outbreaks in our country. Like most infectious diseases, arboviruses have the potential to affect the kidneys through several mechanisms. These include the direct action of the viruses, systemic inflammation, hemorrhagic phenomena and other complications, in addition to the toxicity of the drugs used in treatment. In this review article, the epidemiological aspects of the main arboviruses in Brazil and other countries where these diseases are endemic, clinical aspects and the main laboratory changes found, including changes in renal function, are addressed. It also describes how arboviruses behave in kidney transplant patients. The pathophysiological mechanisms of kidney injury associated with arboviruses are described and finally the recommended treatment for each disease and recommendations for kidney support in this context are given.

Acute kidney injury requiring dialysis in children: a multicentric, emerging country perspective

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a life-threatening condition, especially in extreme age groups and when kidney replacement therapy (KRT) is necessary. Studies worldwide report mortality rates of 10-63% in pediatric patients undergoing KRT.

METHODS

Over 13 years, this multicenter study analyzed data from 693 patients with AKI, all receiving KRT, across 74 hospitals and medical facilities in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

RESULTS

The majority were male (59.5%), under one year old (55.6%), and treated in private hospitals (76.5%). Sixty-six percent had comorbidities. Pneumonia and congenital heart disease were the most common admission diagnoses (21.5% and 20.2%, respectively). The mortality rate was 65.2%, with lower rates in patients over 12 years (50%). Older age was protective (HR: 2.35, IQR [1.52-3.62] for neonates), and primary kidney disease had a three-fold lower mortality rate. ICU team experience (HR: 0.74, IQR [0.60-0.91]) correlated with lower mortality, particularly in hospitals treating 20 or more patients. Among the deceased, 40% died within 48 h of KRT initiation, suggesting possible late referral or treatment futility.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the high mortality in pediatric dialytic AKI in middle-income countries, underlining early mortality and offering critical insights for improving outcomes.

Regional variation in incidence and prognosis of acute kidney injury

BACKGROUND

Examining regional variation in acute kidney injury (AKI) and associated outcomes may reveal inequalities and possibilities for optimization of the quality of care. Using the Danish medical databases, we examined regional variation in the incidence, follow-up and prognosis of AKI in Denmark.

METHODS

Patients with one or more AKI episodes in 2017 were identified using population-based creatinine measurements covering all Danish residents. Crude and sex-and-age-standardized incidence rates of AKI were estimated using census statistics for each municipality. Adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) of chronic kidney disease (CKD), all-cause death, biochemical follow-up and outpatient contact with a nephrology department after AKI were estimated across geographical regions and categories of municipalities, accounting for differences in demographics, comorbidities, medication use, lifestyle and social factors, and baseline kidney function.

RESULTS

We identified 63 382 AKI episodes in 58 356 adults in 2017. The regional standardized AKI incidence rates ranged from 12.9 to 14.9 per 1000 person-years. Compared with the Capital Region of Denmark, the aHRs across regions ranged from 1.04 to 1.25 for CKD, from 0.97 to 1.04 for all-cause death, from 1.09 to 1.15 for biochemical follow-up and from 1.08 to 1.49 for outpatient contact with a nephrology department after AKI. Similar variations were found across municipality categories.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the uniform Danish healthcare system, we found modest regional variation in AKI incidence. The mortality after AKI was similar; however, CKD, biochemical follow-up and nephrology follow-up after AKI varied across regions and municipality categories.

Genotypic diversity, virulence, and molecular genetic tools in Histoplasma

SUMMARYHistoplasmosis is arguably the most common fungal respiratory infection worldwide, with hundreds of thousands of new infections occurring annually in the United States alone. The infection can progress in the lung or disseminate to visceral organs and can be difficult to treat with antifungal drugs. Histoplasma, the causative agent of the disease, is a pathogenic fungus that causes life-threatening lung infections and is globally distributed. The fungus has the ability to germinate from conidia into either hyphal (mold) or yeast form, depending on the environmental temperature. This transition also regulates virulence. Histoplasma and histoplasmosis have been classified as being of emergent importance, and in 2022, the World Health Organization included Histoplasma as 1 of the 19 most concerning human fungal pathogens. In this review, we synthesize the current understanding of the ecological niche, evolutionary history, and virulence strategies of Histoplasma. We also describe general patterns of the symptomatology and epidemiology of histoplasmosis. We underscore areas where research is sorely needed and highlight research avenues that have been productive.

Study protocol for the development and validation of a questionnaire evaluating predisposition to immunosuppressant medication non-adherence of kidney pre-transplant patients. The KATITA project

Non-adherence to immunosuppressive medication after kidney transplant is an important cause of graft rejection and loss. Approaches to minimization of non-adherence have focused on the identification of episodes of medication non-adherence, but by then irreparable harm to the graft may already have occurred, and a more effective approach would be to adopt preventive measures in patients who may have difficulty in adhering to medication. The aim of this study protocol is to develop and validate a clinical questionnaire for assessing, in kidney transplant candidate patients in the pre-transplant setting, the predisposition to non-adherence to immunosuppressive medication. In this multicenter, prospective study, a pilot questionnaire in Brazilian Portuguese language, composed of Likert-scaled statements expressing patients' beliefs, behaviors and barriers regarding medication taking will be assembled from a literature review, from focus groups, and an expert panel. The pilot questionnaire will be administered to a minimum of 300 patients in kidney transplant waiting lists and exploratory factor analysis will be used for development of the definitive questionnaire. A random subsample of a minimum of 60 patients will have the scale re-administered after one month for evaluation of test-retest reliability. A multicenter, external validation study will include 364 kidney transplant candidates who will be evaluated immediately before surgery and at months 3, 6 and 12 post-transplant for assessment of concurrent validity, by comparison with two scales that assess medication non-adherence, and for determination of predictive validity using a triangulation method for assessment of medication non-adherence. Structural validity will be assessed with confirmatory factor analysis using structural equation modeling. Cross-cultural generalizability and validity will be assessed by a multicenter study, in which a translation of the scale to another language will be administered to kidney transplant candidate patients from a different culture, with a subsample being selected for test-retest. This study will be conducted in Spain with a Spanish translation of the scale.

Advanced glycosylation end products promote the progression of CKD-MBD in rats, and its natural inhibitor, quercetin, mitigates disease progression

Chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone metabolism disorder (CKD-MBD) is a common chronic kidney disease (CKD)-associated complication that increases the risk of metabolic bone diseases, fractures, osteoblastic trans-differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells, and cardiovascular events. SD rats were randomised into five groups with six rats per group: sham, CKD, CKD + advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs), CKD + Quercetin, and CKD + AGEs + Quercetin. The protective effects of AGEs and quercetin on SD rats were assessed by renal function, renal pathology, bone metabolism, osteoblastic trans-differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells, and the receptor for AGE (RAGE) expression. Compared with the control group, rats in the CKD and CKD + AGEs groups had significantly lower body weight, higher serum AGEs levels, impaired renal function, increased levels of oxidative stress in the kidney and bone marrow tissues, lower femoral bone mineral density (BMD), callus mineralised volume fraction (mineralised bone volume/total volume), abnormal serum bone metabolism levels, and increased renal tissue, bone tissue, and abdominal aorta RAGE expression levels, and the RAGE downstream NF-κB signalling pathway was upregulated. Quercetin significantly improved renal dysfunction, attenuated serum AGE levels, reduced oxidative stress levels in the kidney and bone marrow tissues, and downregulated RAGE expression in the kidney, bone, and abdominal aorta and the RAGE downstream NF-κB signalling pathway in rats with CKD. AGEs are involved in the pathogenesis of CKD-MBD by promoting osteoblastic trans-differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells and abnormal bone metabolism. Quercetin plays a role in the prevention and treatment of CKD-MBD by reducing the production of AGEs.

Estimating the global prevalence of secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD)-related secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) is associated with higher morbidity and death. The goal of this study was to mine the SHPT data already available to do a meta-analysis on the global prevalence of SHPT caused by CKD.

Methods

Embase, Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Databases, and Google Scholar were searched to identify studies on the prevalence of SHPT due to CKD from inception to November 2023. Pooled prevalence was calculated using the DerSimonian-Laird random effects model with a logit transformation.

Results

Twenty-one eligible studies involving 110977 patients were included. Our results revealed that the estimated global prevalence of SHPT due to CKD was 49.5% (95% CI 30.20-68.18), regardless of the diagnostic criteria. For subgroup analysis, Southern Asia (84.36%, 95% CI 79.35-88.34) had a significantly higher SHPT prevalence than other geographic regions. SHPT due to CKD was most prevalent in China (85.14%, 95% CI 81.74-88.00).

Conclusions

SHPT due to CKD is highly prevalent. This necessitates awareness and therapeutic approaches from primary care physicians, medical professionals, and health strategy authorities.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42024514007.

Peritoneal dialysis versus haemodialysis for people commencing dialysis

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) and haemodialysis (HD) are two possible modalities for people with kidney failure commencing dialysis. Only a few randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have evaluated PD versus HD. The benefits and harms of the two modalities remain uncertain. This review includes both RCTs and non-randomised studies of interventions (NRSIs).

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of PD, compared to HD, in people with kidney failure initiating dialysis.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies from 2000 to June 2024 using search terms relevant to this review. Studies in the Register were identified through searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, conference proceedings, the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) Search Portal, and ClinicalTrials.gov. MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched for NRSIs from 2000 until 28 March 2023.

SELECTION CRITERIA

RCTs and NRSIs evaluating PD compared to HD in people initiating dialysis were eligible.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two investigators independently assessed if the studies were eligible and then extracted data. Risk of bias was assessed using standard Cochrane methods, and relevant outcomes were extracted for each report. The primary outcome was residual kidney function (RKF). Secondary outcomes included all-cause, cardiovascular and infection-related death, infection, cardiovascular disease, hospitalisation, technique survival, life participation and fatigue.

MAIN RESULTS

A total of 153 reports of 84 studies (2 RCTs, 82 NRSIs) were included. Studies varied widely in design (small single-centre studies to international registry analyses) and in the included populations (broad inclusion criteria versus restricted to more specific participants). Additionally, treatment delivery (e.g. automated versus continuous ambulatory PD, HD with catheter versus arteriovenous fistula or graft, in-centre versus home HD) and duration of follow-up varied widely. The two included RCTs were deemed to be at high risk of bias in terms of blinding participants and personnel and blinding outcome assessment for outcomes pertaining to quality of life. However, most other criteria were assessed as low risk of bias for both studies. Although the risk of bias (Newcastle-Ottawa Scale) was generally low for most NRSIs, studies were at risk of selection bias and residual confounding due to the constraints of the observational study design. In children, there may be little or no difference between HD and PD on all-cause death (6 studies, 5752 participants: RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.62 to 1.07; I2 = 28%; low certainty) and cardiovascular death (3 studies, 7073 participants: RR 1.23, 95% CI 0.58 to 2.59; I2 = 29%; low certainty), and was unclear for infection-related death (4 studies, 7451 participants: RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.39 to 2.46; I2 = 56%; very low certainty). In adults, compared with HD, PD had an uncertain effect on RKF (mL/min/1.73 m2) at six months (2 studies, 146 participants: MD 0.90, 95% CI 0.23 to 3.60; I2 = 82%; very low certainty), 12 months (3 studies, 606 participants: MD 1.21, 95% CI -0.01 to 2.43; I2 = 81%; very low certainty) and 24 months (3 studies, 334 participants: MD 0.71, 95% CI -0.02 to 1.48; I2 = 72%; very low certainty). PD had uncertain effects on residual urine volume at 12 months (3 studies, 253 participants: MD 344.10 mL/day, 95% CI 168.70 to 519.49; I2 = 69%; very low certainty). PD may reduce the risk of RKF loss (3 studies, 2834 participants: RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.68; I2 = 17%; low certainty). Compared with HD, PD had uncertain effects on all-cause death (42 studies, 700,093 participants: RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.77 to 0.98; I2 = 99%; very low certainty). In an analysis restricted to RCTs, PD may reduce the risk of all-cause death (2 studies, 1120 participants: RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.86; I2 = 0%; moderate certainty). PD had uncertain effects on both cardiovascular (21 studies, 68,492 participants: RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.19; I2 = 92%) and infection-related death (17 studies, 116,333 participants: RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.42; I2 = 98%) (both very low certainty). Compared with HD, PD had uncertain effects on the number of patients experiencing bacteraemia/bloodstream infection (2 studies, 2582 participants: RR 0.34, 95% CI 0.10 to 1.18; I2 = 68%) and the number of patients experiencing infection episodes (3 studies, 277 participants: RR 1.23, 95% CI 0.93 to 1.62; I2 = 20%) (both very low certainty). PD may reduce the number of bacteraemia/bloodstream infection episodes (2 studies, 2637 participants: RR 0.44, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.71; I2 = 24%; low certainty). Compared with HD; It is uncertain whether PD reduces the risk of acute myocardial infarction (4 studies, 110,850 participants: RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.10; I2 = 55%), coronary artery disease (3 studies, 5826 participants: RR 0.95, 95% CI 0.46 to 1.97; I2 = 62%); ischaemic heart disease (2 studies, 58,374 participants: RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.28; I2 = 95%), congestive heart failure (3 studies, 49,511 participants: RR 1.10, 95% CI 0.54 to 2.21; I2 = 89%) and stroke (4 studies, 102,542 participants: RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.90 to 0.99; I2 = 0%) because of low to very low certainty evidence. Compared with HD, PD had uncertain effects on the number of patients experiencing hospitalisation (4 studies, 3282 participants: RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.62 to 1.30; I2 = 97%) and all-cause hospitalisation events (4 studies, 42,582 participants: RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.29; I2 = 91%) (very low certainty). None of the included studies reported specifically on life participation or fatigue. However, two studies evaluated employment. Compared with HD, PD had uncertain effects on employment at one year (2 studies, 593 participants: RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.20 to 3.43; I2 = 97%; very low certainty).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The comparative effectiveness of PD and HD on the preservation of RKF, all-cause and cause-specific death risk, the incidence of bacteraemia, other vascular complications (e.g. stroke, cardiovascular events) and patient-reported outcomes (e.g. life participation and fatigue) are uncertain, based on data obtained mostly from NRSIs, as only two RCTs were included.

Annamma L, Subaveerapandiyan A, George BT, Kataria S. Visualising Medical Research: Exploring the Influence of Infographics on Professional Dissemination

Objective

This study explores the impact of infographics on the professional dissemination of medical research. Recognising the burgeoning volume of data in the medical domain, this research aims to bridge the gap by investigating the efficacy of infographics in rendering complex medical concepts understandable to diverse audiences, including policymakers, patients, and the public.

Design

The study uses a cross-sectional survey to assess medical professionals' familiarity with infographic design and data visualisation principles. Setting. The research targets medical professionals with published articles across various subfields, including Clinical Medicine, Epidemiology, Pharmacology, Healthcare Management, Medical Imaging, and Public Health.

Method

Data collection involves an online survey distributed to potential participants through professional networks and research institutions. The survey encompasses Likert-scale questions and demographic variables. Ethical considerations include obtaining approval from the institutional review board, ensuring participant consent, and maintaining data anonymity and confidentiality.

Results

Demographic analysis reveals a diverse participant profile, with 58.7% male and 41.3% female respondents, spanning various age groups, professional experiences, and geographic locations. Assessing familiarity with infographic design and data visualisation principles demonstrates respondents' proficiency in certain areas while highlighting potential areas for improvement.

Conclusion

The study underscores the multifaceted benefits of infographics in research dissemination, as medical professionals perceive. Infographics can effectively convey various kinds of medical research information across diverse platforms and channels.

Association between chronic kidney disease stages and changes in ambulatory blood pressure monitoring parameters

INTRODUCTION

Blood pressure (BP) assessment affects the management of arterial hypertension (AH) in chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD patients have specific patterns of BP behavior during ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM).

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the associations between progressive stages of CKD and changes in ABPM.

METHODOLOGY

This is a cross-sectional study with 851 patients treated in outpatient clinics of a university hospital who underwent ABPM examination from January 2004 to February 2012 in order to assess the presence and control of AH. The outcomes considered were the ABPM parameters. The variable of interest was CKD staging. Confounding factors included age, sex, body mass index, smoking, cause of CKD, and use of antihypertensive drugs.

RESULTS

Systolic BP (SBP) was associated with CKD stages 3b and 5, irrespective of confounding variables. Pulse pressure was only associated with stage 5. The SBP coefficient of variation was progressively associated with stages 3a, 4 and 5, while the diastolic blood pressure (DBP) coefficient of variation showed no association. SBP reduction was associated with stages 2, 4 and 5, and the decline in DBP with stages 4 and 5. Other ABPM parameters showed no association with CKD stages after adjustments.

CONCLUSION

Advanced stages of CKD were associated with lower nocturnal dipping and greater variability in blood pressure.

Impact of health literacy, social support, and socioeconomic position on the serum uric acid level in asymptomatic hyperuricaemia patients in China: a structural equation model

BACKGROUND

Hyperuricaemia (HUA) poses a significant public health challenge on a global scale. It is mostly asymptomatic hyperuricemia (AHU) with unsatisfactory recognition and control rates. The role of health literacy in influencing health outcomes is of utmost importance, and enhancing health literacy is helpful for patients in managing risk factors. Additionally, social support and socioeconomic position (SEP) have been identified as potential factors influencing health. However, the exact relationships between these factors and AHU remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the status of health literacy among patients with AHU and explore the relationships between health literacy, social support, SEP, and serum uric acid (SUA) levels.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 349 participants with AHU in Luzhou, China. The research instruments included a sociodemographic characteristics questionnaire, the Health Literacy Scale for Chronic Patients (HLSCP), and the Social Support Scale (SSRS). The construction of the SEP index was achieved through the application of principal component analysis. Univariate and hierarchical regression analyses were used to evaluate the associations between SEP, social support, health literacy, and SUA levels. Furthermore, structural equation modelling (SEM) was utilized to examine these associations.

RESULTS

(1) Most patients exhibited low health literacy (90.18 ± 15.11), and only 44.4% possessed basic health literacy. (2) SEP was positively correlated with SUA levels (β = 4.086, P < 0.001), and health literacy was negatively related to SUA levels (β = -0.399, P < 0.001). There was no significant relationship between social support and SUA levels (β = 0.051, t = 1.085). (3) Health literacy mediated the association between SEP and SUA levels (β = -0.490, 95% CI: -0.620 to -0.382). SEP had a direct positive effect on SUA levels (β = 0.723) and health literacy (β = 0.696), and the total effect of SEP on SUA levels was 0.233.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate a low level of health literacy among patients with AHU and suggest that health literacy might play a mediating role in the relationship between SEP and SUA levels. Consequently, future initiatives are recommended to prioritize health literacy and devise appropriate intervention strategies to enhance the self-management capabilities of patients with AHU.

Educational video for self-care with arteriovenous fistula in renal patients: randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

to evaluate the effect of an educational video on the knowledge, attitude, and practice of self-care with arteriovenous fistula in patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment.

METHOD

randomized controlled clinical trial, with two arms and single-blind. The intervention used an educational video on arteriovenous fistula self-care. The Fistula Self-Care Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Scale was applied to 27 renal patients on hemodialysis in the control group and 28 in the intervention group at baseline, after seven and fourteen days. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software, using the chi-square test, Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney test, and Friedman's test with post-hoc analysis for multiple comparisons.

RESULTS

there were statistically significant differences in the knowledge and practice of self-care with the fistula at 0, 7 and, 14 days in the intervention (p= 0.004 and p<0.001, respectively) and control groups (p<0.001 for knowledge and practice). Attitude showed a significant difference at follow-up (p<0.001), but the post-hoc analysis did not confirm the significance obtained.

CONCLUSION

patients' knowledge and practice showed significant increases at follow-up in the control and intervention groups, while the increase in attitude was not significant in either group. Clinical trial, registration number: U1111-1241-6730.

Impact of Nutrition Education on Various Health-Related Components of Hemodialysis Patients: A Systematic Review

This study aimed to identify the impact of nutrition education on various health-related components of hemodialysis patients. A systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Relevant literature published between 2013 and 2023 was identified across two databases (PubMed and Science Direct). The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023460681). Two independent reviewers retrieved the data, and 41 studies were selected. Nine components related to the impact of nutrition education in hemodialysis patients were identified. Each component was clarified by mentioning each study and its results. This study enabled us to characterize the various components of the impact of nutritional education in hemodialysis patients, namely biological markers, quality of life, cost of care, adherence to dietary recommendations, knowledge, malnutrition inflammation, dietary intake, weight change, and behavior change. This systematic review enables healthcare providers to assess the impact of nutritional education on hemodialysis patients. Also, it gives professionals an exact idea of the impact of nutrition education on hemodialysis patients, with knowledge of new methods using behavior change theories and innovative technological tools.

Acute Kidney Injury in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Epidemiology, Diagnosis and Risk Factors

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with long-term consequences and poor outcomes in the neonatal intensive care unit. Its precocious diagnosis represents one of the hardest challenges in clinical practice due to the lack of sensitive and specific biomarkers. Currently, neonatal AKI is defined with urinary markers and serum creatinine (sCr), with limitations in early detection and individual treatment. Biomarkers and risk factor scores were studied to predict neonatal AKI, to early identify the stage of injury and not the damage and to anticipate late increases in sCr levels, which occurred when the renal function already began to decline. Sepsis is the leading cause of AKI, and sepsis-related AKI is one of the main causes of high mortality. Moreover, preterm neonates, as well as patients with post-neonatal asphyxia or after cardiac surgery, are at a high risk for AKI. Critical patients are frequently exposed to nephrotoxic medications, representing a potentially preventable cause of AKI. This review highlights the definition of neonatal AKI, its diagnosis and new biomarkers available in clinical practice and in the near future. We analyze the risk factors involving patients with AKI, their outcomes and the risk for the transition from acute damage to chronic kidney disease.

Determining the effect of arteriovenous fistula care training on the self-care behaviors of hemodialysis patients

INTRODUCTION

The aim was to determine the effect of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) care training given to hemodialysis (HD) patients on the self-care behaviors of patients.

METHODS

The randomized controlled experimental study was conducted in the HD unit. The study was carried out with a total of 66 patients. Patients in the intervention group were trained using the AVF Care Education Book for 4 weeks. The study data were collected using the scale for evaluating self-care behaviors related to AVF in HD patients (ASBHD-AVF). Shapiro-Wilk and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests, independent t-tests, and ANOVA were used in the SPSS 25.0 package program.

RESULTS

As a result of the research, it was determined that the average ASBHD-AVF score of the patients in the trained intervention group increased from 54.52 ± 7.41 to 73.77 ± 3.05 (p <0.05). The mean ASBHD-AVF score of the patients in the control group increased from 56.14 ± 4.51 to 58.14 ± 5.93 (p >0.05). When the difference between the two groups was examined, it was determined that the average ASBHD-AVF score of the patients in the intervention group was statistically significantly higher than the control group (p <0.05).

CONCLUSION

AVF care education given to HD patients improves patients' self-care behaviors. Improved fistula self-care behaviors of patients will contribute to the healthy functioning of the AVF and the effective HD treatment of patients.

Urine Nephrin and Podocalyxin Reflecting Podocyte Damage and Severity of Kidney Disease in Various Glomerular Diseases-A Cross-Sectional Study

Background/Objectives: Glomerulopathy is a term used to describe a broad spectrum of renal diseases, characterized by dysfunction of glomerular filtration barrier, especially of podocytes. Several podocyte-associated proteins have been found and proved their usefulness as urine markers of podocyte dysfunction. Two of them are nephrin (NEP) and prodocalyxin (PDC). This study aims to evaluate the association of podocyte damage, as it is demonstrated via the concentrations of urinary proteins, with clinical and histological data from patients with several types of glomerulonephritis. Methods: We measured urine levels of two podocyte-specific markers, NEP and PDC (corrected for urine creatinine levels), in patients with a wide range of glomerulopathies. Serum and urine parameters as well as histological parameters from renal biopsy were recorded. Results: In total, data from 37 patients with glomerulonephritis and 5 healthy controls were analyzed. PDC and NEP concentrations correlated between them and with serum creatinine levels (p = 0.001 and p = 0.013 respectively), and with histological lesions associated with chronicity index of renal cortex, such as severe interstitial fibrosis, severe tubular atrophy and hyalinosis (for PDC/NEP, all p < 0.05). In addition, the PDC and NEP demonstrated statistically significant correlations with interstitial inflammation (p = 0.018/p = 0.028). Regarding electron microscopy evaluation, PDC levels were correlated with distinct characteristics, such as fibrils and global podocyte foot process fusion, whereas the NEP/CR ratio was uniquely significantly associated with podocyte fusion only in non-immune-complex-mediated glomerulonephritis (p = 0.02). Among the other clinical and histological parameters included in our study, a strong correlation between proteinuria >3 g/24 h and diffuse fusion of podocyte foot processes (p = 0.016) was identified. Conclusions: Podocalyxin and nephrin concentrations in urine are markers of podocyte dysfunction, and in our study, they were associated both with serum creatinine and histological chronicity indices.

Interruption of anti-thymocyte globuline treatment in solid organ transplantation is effectively monitored through a low total lymphocyte count

Introduction

Anti-Thymocyte Globulin (ATG) is a cornerstone in immune suppression for solid organ transplantation. The treatment is a delicate balance between complications arising from over-immunosuppression such as infections and cancer versus rejection stemming from under-immunosuppression. CD3+ T-lymphocyte measurements are frequently employed for treatment monitoring. However, this analysis is costly and not always accessible. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the total count of lymphocytes could replace CD3+ T-lymphocyte measurements based on data from our transplantation center combined with a review of the literature. The hypothesis was that the total lymphocyte count could serve as a diagnostic surrogate marker for CD3+ T-lymphocytes.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted, including patients who underwent kidney and/or a pancreas transplantation and received ATG as induction therapy or for rejection treatment. The inclusion criterium was that the total lymphocyte count and CD3+ T-lymphocyte measurements were measured simultaneously on the same day. Additionally, PubMed and Embase were searched up to 18/10/2023 for published studies on solid organ transplantation, ATG, T-lymphocytes, lymphocyte count, and monitoring. In the retrospective cohort study, a total of 91 patients transplanted between 2016 and 2023, with 487 samples, were included.

Results

Total lymphocyte counts below 0.3 x 109/L had a high sensitivity (86%) as a surrogate marker of CD3+ T-lymphocytes below 0.05 x 109/L, but the specificity was low (52%) for total lymphocyte counts above 0.3 x 109/L as a surrogate marker for CD3+ T-lymphocytes above 0.05 x 109/L. A review of the literature identified seven studies comparing total lymphocyte counts and CD3+ T-lymphocytes in ATG monitoring. These studies supported the use of a low total lymphocyte count as a surrogate marker for CD3+ T-lymphocytes and an indicator to omit ATG treatment. However, there was no consensus regarding high total lymphocyte counts as an indicator for continued treatment.

Discussion

Results supports that the total lymphocyte count can be used to omit ATG treatment when below 0.3 x 109/L whereas the CD3+ T-lymphocyte analysis should be reserved for higher total lymphocyte counts to avoid ATG overtreatment.

Genetic variants affecting mitochondrial function provide further insights for kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a complex disorder that has become a high prevalence global health problem, with diabetes being its predominant pathophysiologic driver. Autosomal genetic variation only explains some of the predisposition to kidney disease. Variations in the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) and nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes (NEMG) are implicated in susceptibility to kidney disease and CKD progression, but they have not been thoroughly explored. Our aim was to investigate the association of variation in both mtDNA and NEMG with CKD (and related traits), with a particular focus on diabetes.

METHODS

We used the UK Biobank (UKB) and UK-ROI, an independent collection of individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients.

RESULTS

Fourteen mitochondrial variants were associated with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in UKB. Mitochondrial variants and haplogroups U, H and J were associated with eGFR and serum variables. Mitochondrial haplogroup H was associated with all the serum variables regardless of the presence of diabetes. Mitochondrial haplogroup X was associated with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) in UKB. We confirmed the influence of several known NEMG on kidney disease and function and found novel associations for SLC39A13, CFL1, ACP2 or ATP5G1 with serum variables and kidney damage, and for SLC4A1, NUP210 and MYH14 with ESKD. The G allele of TBC1D32-rs113987180 was associated with higher risk of ESKD in patients with diabetes (OR:9.879; CI95%:4.440-21.980; P = 2.0E-08). In UK-ROI, AGXT2-rs71615838 and SURF1-rs183853102 were associated with diabetic nephropathies, and TFB1M-rs869120 with eGFR.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified novel variants both in mtDNA and NEMG which may explain some of the missing heritability for CKD and kidney phenotypes. We confirmed the role of MT-ND5 and mitochondrial haplogroup H on renal disease (serum variables), and identified the MT-ND5-rs41535848G variant, along with mitochondrial haplogroup X, associated with higher risk of ESKD. Despite most of the associations were independent of diabetes, we also showed potential roles for NEMG in T1DM.

Patterns of kidney function and risk assessment in a nationwide laboratory database: the Brazilian CHECK-CKD study

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health problem with rising prevalence, morbidity, mortality, and associated costs. Early identification and risk stratification are key to preventing progression to kidney failure. However, there is a paucity of data on practice patterns of kidney function assessment to guide the development of improvement strategies, particularly in lower-income countries.

METHODS

A retrospective observational analysis was conducted in a nationwide laboratory database in Brazil. We included all adult patients with at least one serum creatinine assessment between June 2018 and May 2021. Our primary objective was to determine the proportion of patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) evaluations accompanied by predicted levels of urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (pACR) assessments within 12 months.

RESULTS

Out of 4,5323,332 serum creatinine measurements, 42% lacked pACR measurements within 12 months. Approximately 10.8% of tests suggested CKD, mostly at stage 3a. The proportion of serum creatinine exams paired with pACR assessment varied according to the CKD stage. Internal Medicine, Cardiology, and Obstetrics/Gynecology were the specialties requesting most of the creatinine tests. Nephrology contributed with only 1.1% of serum creatinine requests for testing.

CONCLUSION

Our findings reveal that a significant proportion of individuals with a creatinine test lack an accompanying urinary albuminuria measurement in Brazil, contrary to the recommendations of the international guidelines. Non-Nephrologists perform most kidney function evaluations, even among patients with presumable advanced CKD. This highlights the urge to incorporate in clinical practice the early detection of CKD and to encourage more collaborative multidisciplinary care to improve CKD management.

Prevalence of cognitive impairment and its predictors among chronic kidney disease patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Cognitive impairment (CI) is common among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), and is associated with a poor prognosis. We assessed the prevalence and associated factors of CI in patients with CKD.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted by searching PubMed, Embase, and the Web of Science through December 1, 2023. Random effects models were performed with subgroup analyses to further explore the heterogeneity.

RESULTS

50 studies involving 25,289 CKD patients were included. The overall prevalence of CI was 40% (95% confidence interval 33-46). The pooled prevalence of CI was relatively higher in CKD patients from Africa (58%), Asia (44%) and America (37%). Attention and executive dysfunction appeared to be the most common manifestations. The prevalence of CI was higher among patients with hemodialysis (53%) and peritoneal dialysis (39%) than those without dialysis (32%) and post-kidney transplanted (26%). In addition, advanced age, the presence of diabetes and hypertension might increase the risk of CI in CKD patients.

CONCLUSIONS

People with CKD have a high prevalence of CI, especially in patients with hemodialysis. An early and comprehensive screening for CI in CKD patients is needed to improve clinical outcomes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registration number: PROSPERO (CRD42023412864).

Review of clinical characteristics and mortality outcomes in patients on maintenance hemodialysis during the Omicron surge: a single center experience

BACKGROUND

This hemodialysis center experienced the pandemic from December 2022 to January 2023. Therefore, we sought to describe the clinical characteristics and mortality outcomes in hemodialysis patients during this Omicron surge.

METHODS

According to whether they are infected, they are divided into two groups: SARS-CoV-2-positive and SARS-CoV-2-negative. The SARS-CoV-2-positive group was divided into a survival group and a non-survival group for comparison.

RESULTS

366 of 457 hemodialysis patients were infected with SARS-CoV-2. The most common symptoms observed were fever (43.2%) and cough (29.8%), Followed by diarrhea (1.4%). Hemodialysis patients with hypertension were more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The lymphocyte count, serum creatinine, serum potassium, and serum phosphorus in the SARS-CoV-2-positive group were significantly lower than those in the SARS-CoV-2-negative group. The all-cause mortality rate for infection with SARS-CoV-2 was 5.2%. Only 7 of 366 SARS-CoV-2-positive patients were admitted to the intensive care unit, but 6 of them died. Intensive care unit hospitalization rates were significantly higher in the non-survival group compared with the survival group. White blood cells count, neutrophil count, C-reactive protein, AST, and D-dimer in the non-survival group were higher than those in the survival group. The lymphocyte count, hemoglobin concentration, serum creatinine, serum albumin, serum phosphorus and parathyroid hormone in the non-survival group were lower than those in the survival group. Age > 65 years, elevated C-reactive protein and AST are independent risk factors for death. Finally, no significant difference in vaccination status was found between the SARS-CoV-2-positive group and the negative group.

CONCLUSIONS

Hemodialysis patients are at high risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Ensuring the adequacy of hemodialysis treatment and maintaining good physical condition of patients are the top priorities.

Sex-Specific Association of Ambient Temperature With Urine Biomarkers in Southwest Coastal Bangladesh

Introduction

Men are vulnerable to ambient heat-related kidney disease burden; however, limited evidence exists on how vulnerable women are when exposed to high ambient heat. We evaluated the sex-specific association between ambient temperature and urine electrolytes, and 24-hour urine total protein, and volume.

Methods

We pooled a longitudinal 5624 person-visits data of 1175 participants' concentration and 24-hour excretion of urine electrolytes and other biomarkers (24-hour urine total protein and volume) from southwest coastal Bangladesh (Khulna, Satkhira, and Mongla districts) during November 2016 to April 2017. We then spatiotemporally linked ambient temperature data from local weather stations to participants' health outcomes. For evaluating the relationships between average ambient temperature and urine electrolytes and other biomarkers, we plotted confounder-adjusted restricted cubic spline (RCS) plots using participant-level, household-level, and community-level random intercepts. We then used piece-wise linear mixed-effects models for different ambient temperature segments determined by inflection points in RCS plots and reported the maximum likelihood estimates and cluster robust standard errors. By applying interaction terms for sex and ambient temperature, we determined the overall significance using the Wald test. Bonferroni correction was used for multiple comparisons.

Results

The RCS plots demonstrated nonlinear associations between ambient heat and urine biomarkers for males and females. Piecewise linear mixed-effects models suggested that sex did not modify the relationship of ambient temperature with any of the urine parameters after Bonferroni correction (P < 0.004).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that women are as susceptible to the effects of high ambient temperature exposure as men.

Physical exercise as a modulator of the purinergic system in the control of sarcopenia in individuals with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis

The word sarcopenia derives from the Greek terms "sarx" for meat and "penia" for loss, thus being used to define reductions in muscle mass, muscle strength, and lower physical performance that compromise, mainly, the elderly population. Its high negative impact on patients' quality of life encourages the production and publication of new studies that seek to find methods to prevent and reverse cases of loss of muscle mass and strength. Furthermore, the high prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is closely related to its pathophysiology, which consists of a state of increased protein catabolism and decreased muscle tissue synthesis. Also considering the inflammatory nature of CKD and sarcopenia, the purinergic system has been an important target of studies, which seek to relate it to the two previous conditions. This system achieves anti-inflammatory action by inhibiting, through adenosine, pro-inflammatory factors such as interleukin-12 (IL-12), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and nitric oxide (NO), as well as by releasing anti-inflammatory substances such as interleukin-10 (IL-10). Simultaneously, the purinergic system presents pro-inflammatory activity, signaled by adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which occurs through the activation of T cells and the release of pro-inflammatory factors such as those mentioned above. Therefore, the ability of this system to act on inflammatory processes can promote positive and negative changes in the clinical aspect of patients with CKD and/or sarcopenia. Furthermore, it appears that there is a correlation between the practice of repeated physical exercise with the clinical improvement and in the quality of life of these patients, presenting a decrease in the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), NTPDase, and the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6, such as increases in IL-10 resulting from modulation of the purinergic system. In this way, the present article seeks to evaluate the effect of physical exercise as a modulator of the purinergic system in the control of sarcopenia in patients with CKD on hemodialysis, in order to trace a relationship that can bring benefits both for biological markers and for quality of life of these patients.

Nonlupus Full House Nephropathy: A Systematic Review

Key Points

Nonlupus full house nephropathy is a rare, complex entity: confusion arises by the low-quality evidence and the lack of consensus on nomenclature. This systematic review supports that systemic lupus erythematosus and nonlupus full house nephropathy are distinct clinical entities, with comparable outcomes. The identification of three pathogenetic categories provides further clues for a shared clinical and diagnostic approach to the disease.

Background

The presence of a full house pattern at immunofluorescence on kidney biopsy in a patient without clinical and laboratory features of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has led to the descriptive term nonlupus full house nephropathy. This systematic review and meta-analysis focus on nonlupus full house nephropathy nomenclature, clinical findings, and outcomes.

Methods

In a reiterative process, all identified terms for nonlupus full house nephropathy and other medical subject headings terms were searched in PubMed. Out of 344 results, 57 records published between 1982 and 2022 were included in the analysis. Clinical data of single patients from different reports were collected. Patients were classified into three pathogenetic categories, which were compared according to baseline characteristics, treatments, and outcomes.

Results

Out of the 57 records, 61% were case reports. Nonlupus full house nephropathy was addressed with 17 different names. We identified 148 patients: 75 (51%) were men; median age 35 (23–58) years. Serum creatinine and proteinuria at onset were 1.4 (0.8–2.5) mg/dl and 5.7 (2.7–8.8) g/d. About half of patients achieved complete response. A causative agent was identified in 51 patients (44%), mainly infectious (41%). Secondary nonlupus full house nephropathy was mostly nonrelapsing with worse kidney function at onset compared with idiopathic disease (P = 0.001). Among the 57 patients (50%) with idiopathic nonlupus full house nephropathy, complete response was comparable between patients treated with immunosuppression and supportive therapy; however, proteinuria and creatinine at onset were higher in patients treated with immunosuppression (P = 0.09 and P = 0.07). The remaining 7 patients (6%) developed SLE after a median follow-up of 5.0 (1.9–9.0) years.

Conclusions

Our data support that SLE and nonlupus full house nephropathy are distinct clinical entities, with comparable outcomes. A small subset of patients develops SLE during follow-up. Nonlupus full house nephropathy is addressed by many different names in the literature. The identification of three pathogenetic categories provides further clues for the management of the disease.