Blood Calcium Levels Research Articles

Anicteric Cholestasis Syndrome with Pruritus Revealing Systemic Sarcoidosis

Introduction: Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatosis of unknown aetiology characterised by the formation of non-caseating granulomas in organs. Hepatic involvement can be difficult to diagnose. Material and method: We report the case of a 30-year-old female patient with a long history of intractable pruritus revealing systemic sarcoidosis. Case report: A 30-year-old female patient presented with a persistent pruritus without jaundice or fever. Examination revealed tender hepatomegaly and scratch lesions. Laboratory tests revealed elevated liver enzymes with cholestasis, and serum protein electrophoresis showed an inflammatory profile. The different viral hepatitis tests were non-contributory. Alpha fetoprotein was normal. Abdominal ultrasound and CT scans revealed a heteronodular hepatomegaly. The first liver biopsy was consistent with autoimmune hepatitis lesions. The disease improved with general corticosteroid therapy and azathioprine. Two years later, with the persistence of the pruritus, blood calcium levels and angiotensin-converting enzyme tests were found to be elevated. A new liver biopsy showed epitheliogigantocellular granulomas without caseous necrosis. A thoracic CT scan revealed mediastinal adenopathy. This suggested systemic sarcoidosis. The patient progressed well clinically and radiologically on general corticosteroids with adjuvant therapy and azathioprine. Conclusion: Sarcoidosis is a systemic disease that can affect most tissues and organs. Hepatic involvement is frequent and more often difficult to diagnose.

#2733 Osteoporosis and CKD-MBD in hemodialysed patients: efficacy and safety of denosumab

Abstract Background and Aims Osteoporosis is a chronic progressive disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue which results in a rapid increase in fracture risk. Osteoporosis in hemodialysed patients with Chronic Kidney Disease – Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD) is a debilitating clinical condition with complex therapeutic management. In fact, most of the drugs commonly used to counteract osteoporosis are generally contraindicated when Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is lower than 35 ml/min. Denosumab is approved for the treatment of osteoporosis and does not require dose adjustment in case of impaired renal function. For this reason, since 2014 this drug has been used by nephrologists for the treatment of osteoporotic patients also in hemodialysis. Although the interest and diffusion in this specialized clinical field are growing, only few data are still available in literature. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Denosumab in long-term therapies (up to 68 months of therapy) in hemodialysed patients. Method Since December 2013, a total of 22 hemodialysed patients have been treated with Denosumab annually (4) or semi-annually (18) for up to 68 consecutive months. During the treatment, we monitored the blood levels of calcium, phosphorus, PTH, beta-CrossLaps and bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP), T-SCORE and fracture risk (FR) using Qualitative UltraSonography (QUS) or Computerized Bone Mineralometry (CBM) every 30 months and every 2 years, respectively. Results 4/22 patients completed at least 48 months of follow-up, observing a substantial stability of the mean values of blood calcium (from 9.09 mg/dl to 8.63 mg/dl) and phosphorus (from 5.2 mg/dl to 4.1 mg/dl), against a reduction in the mean values of B-CrossLaps and bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP) (respectively from 2975.32 to 1452.75 pg/ml and from 32.09 to 14.58 mcg/L). Comparison of QUS exams demonstrated improved T-score (mean values from −4.71 to −4.17) and reduced fracture risk (mean value from 13% to 8%). The results of the CBMs confirmed the improvement of the bone disease at the lumbar spine (T-score from −3.8 to 2.8 after 2 years of treatment) and the substantial stability of the T-score at the femoral level (from −3.5 to −3.2 after 2 years of treatment). It should be noted that in our samples two patients achieved the longest observation period (68-month follow-up in continuous therapy), in which we observed improvement of the bone disease also at the femoral level compared to the start of treatment (T-score from −3.9 to −2.8 after 48 months of treatment). Only one fracture has been recorded. Conclusion The results obtained confirm efficacy and safety of Denosumab in reducing the risk of fractures, with the improvement of BMD and T-score at the lumbar spine using Computerized Bone Mineralometry (CBM). We underline that close biochemistry monitoring and careful evaluation of the therapeutic procedures before and after Denosumab administration helped us to minimise and promptly correct adverse effects due to hypocalcemia. In addition we are particularly satisfied to report in most patients a significant reduction of pain and an improvement of mobility. The results collected are consistent with acceptable safety and demonstrated efficacy of Denosumab in hemodialysis patients.

The Value of Computer Vision in Identifying the Bone of Dialysis Patients.

In the end stage of kidney disease, abnormal levels of blood calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone lead to bone metabolism disorders, manifesting as osteoporosis or fibrocystic osteoarthritis. X-ray, CT, and MR are useful for detecting bone lesions in dialysis patients, but currently, computer vision has not yet been used for this purpose. ResNet is a powerful deep CNN model, which has not yet been used to distinguish between the bones of dialysis patients and healthy people. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the ability of the Resnet50 model to identify the bone of dialysis patients from normal bone. CT images of 200 cases (100 dialysis patients and 100 healthy people aged 31-72 years with male:female ratio of 51:49) were randomly divided into the training and testing groups at the ratio of 8:2. The module of 'torch' was used to train the model of Resnet50 for the current task of image classification. In the test cohort, the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity with hyper-parameter=0 were 60%, 65%, and 55%, respectively. When the hyper-parameter was 0.6 or 0.7 versus 0, the accuracy was significantly higher (P<0.05). When the hyper-parameter was another number, the accuracy was not significantly different from that with no hyper-parameter (P>0.05). This study has indicated computer vision to be suitable for identifying bone changes caused by dialysis; a hyper-parameter has been found necessary for improving model accuracy. The ResNet50 model with hyper-parameter = 0.7 has exhibited 90% sensitivity in identifying the bone of dialysis patients.

Can regional anticoagulation with calcium-free dialysate be extended to maintenance hemodialysis?

Regional anticoagulation in hemodialysis avoids the use of heparin, which is responsible for both hemorrhagic and non-hemorrhagic complications. Typically, blood is decalcified by injecting citrate into the arterial line of the extracorporeal circuit. Calcium-free dialysate improves anticoagulation efficacy but requires injection of a calcium-containing solution into the venous line and strict monitoring of blood calcium levels. Recent improvements have made regional anticoagulation with calcium-free dialysate safer and easier. (1) Adjusting the calcium injection rate to ionic dialysance avoids the risk of dyscalcemia, thus making unnecessary the monitoring of blood calcium levels. This adjustment could be carried out automatically by the hemodialysis monitor. (2) As calcium-free dialysate reduces the amount of citrate required, this can be supplied by dialysate obtained from currently available concentrates containing citric acid. This avoids the need for citrate injection and the risk of citrate overload. (3) Calcium-free dialysate no longer needs the dialysate acidification required for avoiding calcium carbonate precipitation in bicarbonate-containing dialysate. Regional anticoagulation with calcium-free dialysate enables an acid- and heparin-free procedure that is more biocompatible and environmentally friendly than conventional bicarbonate hemodialysis. The availability of specific acid-free concentrates and adapted hemodialysis monitors is required to extend this procedure to maintenance hemodialysis.

The clinical effectiveness and safety of Zone III REBOA for resection of sacropelvic tumors in patients older than 70 years

BackgroundREBOA is a method used to manage bleeding during surgery involving sacropelvic tumors. Nevertheless, studies on the use of REBOA among elderly people are lacking. The aim of this research was to investigate the efficacy and safety of Zone III REBOA in patients aged more than 70 years.MethodsA comparative study was conducted using case-control methods. A group of patients, referred to as Group A, who were younger than 70 years was identified and paired with a comparable group of patients, known as Group B, who were older than 70 years. Continuous monitoring of physiological parameters was conducted, and blood samples were collected at consistent intervals.ResultsTotally, 188 participants were enrolled and received REBOA. Among the 188 patients, seventeen were aged more than 70 years. By implementing REBOA, the average amount of blood loss was only 1427 ml. Experiments were also conducted to compare Group A and Group B. No notable differences were observed in terms of demographic variables, systolic blood pressure (SBP), arterial pH, lactate levels, blood creatinine levels, potassium levels, or calcium levels at baseline. Additionally, after the deflation of the REBOA, laboratory test results, which included arterial pH, lactate, potassium concentration, calcium concentration, and blood creatinine concentration, were not significantly different (P > 0.05).ConclusionThis study indicated that in selected patients aged more than 70 years can achieve satisfactory hemodynamic and metabolic stability with Zone III REBOA.Level of evidenceTherapeutic study, Level III.

Calcium Profile of Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition of progressive kidney deterioration, which is characterized by a decrease in the estimated glomerular filtration rate that lasts for more than three months. One of the therapies needed to maintain the quality of life of CKD sufferers is hemodialysis. One of the functions of hemodialysis is to regulate electrolyte levels in the blood, including calcium. Low calcium levels in the blood (hypocalcemia) can trigger the release of calcium minerals from the bones, which ultimately makes the bones brittle. So, it is essential to monitor the blood calcium levels of CKD sufferers so as not to worsen the sufferer's condition. This study used secondary data, and the research instrument used in this research was the patient's medical record. Sampling was carried out using the purposive sampling method. The inclusion criteria set were patients with CKD who underwent hemodialysis and had complete medical record data, including age, gender, length of time undergoing hemodialysis, and examination data in the form of blood calcium levels. The data included in this study came from 68 patients with CKD who underwent hemodialysis and had their blood calcium levels checked. Based on the research results, the prevalence of CKD was more significant in men (58.82%), and as many as 92.65% of the total respondents experienced hypocalcemia. Cases of hypocalcemia occurred more frequently in male patients (52.94%), in the 46-65 year age group (55.88%), and in patients who had undergone hemodialysis for 4-12 months (45.59%). Hypocalcemia sufferers need to pay attention to their nutritional intake to keep their blood calcium levels at a safe level.

Absence of calcium-sensing receptor basal activity due to inter-subunit disulfide bridges

G protein-coupled receptors naturally oscillate between inactive and active states, often resulting in receptor constitutive activity with important physiological consequences. Among the class C G protein-coupled receptors that typically sense amino-acids and their derivatives, the calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) tightly controls blood calcium levels. Its constitutive activity has not yet been studied. Here, we demonstrate the importance of the inter-subunit disulfide bridges in maintaining the inactive state of CaSR, resulting in undetectable constitutive activity, unlike the other class C receptors. Deletion of these disulfide bridges results in strong constitutive activity that is abolished by mutations preventing amino acid binding. It shows that this inter-subunit disulfide link is necessary to limit the agonist effect of amino acids on CaSR. Furthermore, human genetic mutations deleting these bridges and associated with hypocalcemia result in elevated CaSR constitutive activity. These results highlight the physiological importance of fine tuning the constitutive activity of G protein-coupled receptors.

Survival Rate of Hemodialysis Patients and Its Predictors: A Multicentric Retrospective Cohort Study

Background: Despite advancements in medical and nursing care, the mortality rate among hemodialysis patients remains unexpectedly high. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the survival rates and identify mortality predictors among hemodialysis patients in Qazvin Province, Iran, over a five-year period from March 2015 to March 2020. Methods: This historical cohort study involved 378 hemodialysis patients from seven hospitals in Qazvin province, including Bu Ali Sina, Velayat, Razi, Alvand, Valiasr, Bueen Zahra, and Avaj, covering the period from March 21, 2015, to March 20, 2020. The study was based on data extracted from the patient's medical records, offering a detailed overview of their medical history and treatments during this timeframe. Results: The study revealed a median survival time of 38.5 months, with survival rates at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years being 84.3%, 68.1%, 53.2%, 39.8%, and 18.0%, respectively. Cox regression analysis identified several key predictors of mortality. Mortality rates increased with age, higher levels of blood urea nitrogen, and when hemoglobin levels fell below 10 g/dL or calcium levels exceeded 9.5 mg/dL. Conversely, patients who underwent hemodialysis three times a week had higher levels of education, used fistula access, and experienced significantly lower mortality rates. Conclusions: The study highlighted the need for targeted interventions to improve both the survival rates and quality of life for hemodialysis patients in Qazvin Province. It emphasized the importance of careful monitoring and effective management of factors such as age, blood urea nitrogen, hemoglobin, and calcium levels, as well as the patients' educational background, frequency of dialysis sessions, and type of vascular access. By focusing on these aspects, healthcare professionals in the region could significantly enhance patient outcomes and prognoses in hemodialysis care.

RELATIONSHIP OF VITAMIN D LEVEL WITH SOME BIOCHEMICAL INDICATORS OF BLOOD IN PATIENTS OVER 60 YEARS OF AGE WITH OSTEOARTHRITIS BEFORE SURGERY AND AFTER PROSTHETICS

Objective. To study the relationship between vitamin D level and biochemical blood parameters in patients over 60 years of age with osteoarthritis (OA). Material and methods. In the investigation 200 patients aged 60–80 years (mean age – 69,03±2,34 years; 170 [85%] women and 30 [15%] men) with OA being observed in the out-patient medical institutions of Murmansk including 100 patients after total joint replacement took part. Vitamin D, triglycerides, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), total cholesterol, low and high density lipoproteins, blood glucose, uric acid, creatinine, total protein, and blood calcium levels were determined in all patients. Results. Vitamin D deficiency was more frequently observed in the group of patients who did not receive surgical treatment compared to patients who underwent arthroplasty. A statistically significant relationship between vitamin D level and blood glucose was detected in the group of non-prosthetic patients. The relationship between vitamin D level, albumin and TSH was revealed in the group of prosthetic patients.

НАСЛЕДСТВЕННАЯ ТУБУЛОПАТИЯ: ФОСФАТ-ДИАБЕТ (Два клинических наблюдения)

Introduction. Phosphate diabetes is a representative of a group of diseases known as tubulopathies. It is more often of a hereditary nature. The disease manifests at an early age with symptoms similar to alimentary rickets, which creates problems for diagnosing and prescribing an adequate therapy. In this case, the current situation leads to the development of bone deformities and disability, delayed physical development, and the need for surgical treatment, which reduces the quality of life of the patients for a long time. Aim: To consider two clinical cases of phosphate diabetes with typical symptoms, demonstrate the diagnosing challenges, and analyze the treatment effects. Materials and Methods. Two clinical cases of phosphate diabetes are presented. The first patient: 16 years old, observed from the age of 2, and takes vitamin D and inorganic phosphates from the diagnosis date. The geneticist found the autosomal dominant of the pathology. The girl underwent two surgeries for her leg deformity. The second patient, 10 years old, was diagnosed at the age of 4 years. DNA diagnostics detected a mutation in the COL9A3 gene. They refused the complete DNA exome sequencing. From the diagnosis date, the patient is treated with the active vitamin D metabolite and inorganic phosphates. Results and Discussion. Clinician-observed: Patient 1 had leg deformities, painful legs, and disharmonious physical development caused by her growth retardation. Blood concentrations of calcium and phosphorus are within normal, there is hypocalciuria typical of phosphate diabetes in the urine, while phosphates are within normal. The patient’s kidney function is not impaired. Clinician-observed: Patient 2 is physically retarded, there are varus foot deformities and pes planovalgus feet. Kidney function is not impaired, the level of alkaline phosphatase is increased, the total blood calcium levels are decreased with phosphorus indicating normal values, and the urine phosphaturia and hypocalciuria are within normal ranges. Due to the COL9A3 mutation detected, Stickler syndrome was excluded. Orthopedic surgeon recommended surgical treatment of her leg deformities. Conclusions. The examination showed that the therapy allows keeping phosphate diabetes under control and avoiding the side effects of taking vitamin D.

Interaction of blood calcium with milk yield, energy metabolites, subclinical mastitis, and reproductive performance in crossbred dairy cows.

Limited literature is available on the consequences of postpartum low blood calcium (Ca) concentration in crossbred cows. The research aimed to investigate the correlation between postpartum serum Ca levels and various parameters, including milk yield, serum energy metabolites, milk somatic cell count, and reproductive factors in crossbred cows. Following parturition, a total of 45 potential high-yielding F2 (HF × Sahiwal; Genotype: 75:25) dairy cows were enrolled . These cows were categorized based on plasma calcium concentrations into three groups: a low calcium group (Ca-L) with a calcium concentration of <5 mg/dL, a medium calcium group (Ca-M) with a calcium concentration ranging from 5 to 8.5 mg/dL, and a high calcium group (Ca-H) with a calcium concentration exceeding 8.5 mg/dL. The study parameters were measured over an 8-week period. The results indicated that overall milk yield and blood glucose were significantly higher in the Ca-H group compared to Ca-M and Ca-L (p < .01). Blood cholesterol was significantly higher in Ca-M (p < .01), while blood triglyceride was significantly lower in both Ca-M and Ca-H. Overall, blood cortisol did not show a significant change between these groups (p < .01); however, progesterone levels were higher (p < .01) in Ca-M and Ca-H cows. Furthermore, somatic cell count (SCC) significantly (p < .01) decreased in cows with Ca-H compared to Ca-L. Additionally, postpartum oestrous interval and interestrus interval decreased significantly (p < .01) in Ca-M and Ca-H compared to Ca-L. These findings suggest that cows with blood calcium levels exceeding 8.5 mg/dL exhibited significantly higher milk yield, blood metabolite levels, a lower likelihood of subclinical mastitis, and earlier reproductive activity after calving.

Association of whole blood copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and iron with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in overweight and obese children.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common metabolic disorder in overweight and obese children, and its etiology and pathogenesis remain unclear, lacking effective preventive and therapeutic measures. This study aims to explore the association between whole blood copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium and iron levels and NAFLD in overweight and obese children aged 6 to 17 years, providing a scientific basis for the prevention and intervention of early NAFLD in overweight and obese children. A cross-sectional study design was used to collect relevant data from overweight and obese children who visited the Hunan Children's Hospital from January 2019 to December 2021 through questionnaire surveys. Fasting blood samples were collected from the subjects, and various indicators such as blood glucose, blood lipid, and mineral elements were detected. All children were divided into an overweight group (n=400) and a NAFLD group (n=202). The NAFLD group was divided into 2 subgroups according to the ALT level: A non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) group and a non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) group. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the association between minerals (copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and iron) and NAFLD, NAFL and NASH. A total of 602 subjects were included, of whom 73.6% were male, with a median age of 10 (9, 11) years, and a body mass index (BMI) of 24.9 (22.7, 27.4) kg/m2. The intergroup comparison results showed that compared with the overweight group, the NAFLD group had higher levels of age, BMI, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), systolic blood pressure (SBP), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL), alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and lower level of high density lipoprotein (HDL). The NAFL group had higher levels of age, BMI, DBP, SBP, ALT, and AST, and lower levels of HDL compared with the overweight group. The levels of age, BMI, DBP, SBP, TG, LDL, ALT, and AST of NASH were higher than those in the overweight group, while the level of HDL was lower than that in overweight group (all P<0.017). After adjusting for a variety of confounders, the OR of NAFLD for the highest quantile of iron was 1.79 (95% CI 1.07 to 3.00) compared to the lowest quantile, and no significant association was observed between copper, zinc, calcium, and magnesium, and NAFLD. The subgroup analysis of NAFLD showed that the OR for the highest quantile of iron in children with NAFL was 2.21 (95% CI 1.26 to 3.88), while no significant association was observed between iron level and NASH. In addition, no significant associations were observed between copper, zinc, calcium, and magnesium levels and NAFL or NASH. High iron level increases the risk of NAFLD (more likely NAFL) in overweight and obese children, while copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and other elements are not associated with the risk of NAFLD in overweight and obese children.

Кислотно-щелочное состояние крови у пациентов с мочекаменной болезнью. Исследование II. Роль pH крови.

Introduction. We will try to show the place of acid-base balance (ABB) study in urolithiasis patients. There is the second article in a series of works devoted to the study of ABB in urolithiasis patients. This work is devoted to the study of the level of basic acid base indicators: blood pH, pCO2, pO2, BE. Materials and methods. The study was conducted prospectively at the N. Lopatkin Scientific Research Institute of Urology and Interventional Radiology – branch of the National Medical Research Radiological Center of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. We analyzed data of 83 urolithiasis patients (39 men and 44 women). All patients underwent an analysis of the urinary stones chemical composition, biochemical analysis of blood and daily urine, blood acid-basic balance, blood parathyroid hormone. Urine pH morning was determined for all patients. Results. Patients with acidemia (blood pH &lt;7.32) had significantly higher concentrations of chlorine, creatinine and ionized calcium in the blood than in the group of patients with 7.32 &lt;blood pH &lt;7.42. The BE indicator is significantly lower than in the comparison group. There is a higher level of total blood calcium (p&lt;0.05) and magnesium excretion, a lower level of serum concentration of creatinine (p&lt;0.05), urea (p&lt;0.05) and chlorine (p&lt;0.05) in the group of patients with hypercapnia (pCO2 &gt;51 mmHg) than in patients with 41&lt; pCO2 &lt;51 mmHg. Patients with a BE level &lt;-2.5 had significantly higher levels of creatinine, urea and chlorine in the blood, and higher urine pH (p&lt;0.05) compared to patients with BE&gt;2.5. Patients with BE &lt; -2.5 also had significantly lower level of blood pH, pCO2 and ionized calcium compared to the group of patients with BE &gt;2.5. Conclusion. Normalization of blood pH is capable to correct the metabolism of the main lithogenic substances in urolithiasis patients.

Unraveling the underlying mechanisms of reduced amyloidogenic properties in human calcitonin via double mutations.

The therapeutic efficacy of peptide-based drugs is commonly hampered by the intrinsic propensity to aggregation. A notable example is human calcitonin (hCT), a peptide hormone comprising 32 amino acids, which is synthesized and secreted by thyroid gland parafollicular cells (C cells). This hormone plays a vital role in regulating blood calcium levels and upholding bone integrity. Despite its physiological importance, utilizing hCT as a drug is hampered by its inclination to form amyloid. To address this limitation, an alternative is provided by salmon calcitonin (sCT), which possesses a lower aggregation propensity. Although sharing the same disulfide bond at the N terminus as hCT, sCT differs from hCT at a total of 16 amino acid positions. However, due to the dissimilarity in sequences, using sCT as a clinical replacement occasionally results in adverse side effects in patients. Earlier investigations have highlighted the significant roles of Tyr-12 and Asn-17 in inducing the formation of amyloid fibrils. By introducing double mutations at these sites, the ability to hinder aggregation can be significantly augmented. This study delves into the oligomerization and helical structure formation of the hCT double mutant (Y12LN17H hCT, noted as DM hCT), as well as two single mutants (Y12L and N17H), aiming to elucidate the mechanism behind hCT fibrillization. In addition, computational prediction tools were employed again to identify potential substitutes. Although the results yielded were not entirely satisfactory, a comparison between the newly examined and previously found hCT double mutants provides insights into the reduced aggregation propensity of the latter. This research endeavor holds the promise of informing the design of more effective therapeutic peptide drugs in the future.

Loss of the glycosyltransferase Galnt11 affects vitamin D homeostasis and bone composition

O-glycosylation is a conserved posttranslational modification that impacts many aspects of organismal viability and function. Recent studies examining the glycosyltransferase Galnt11 demonstrated that it glycosylates the endocytic receptor megalin in the kidneys, enabling proper binding and reabsorption of ligands, including vitamin D-binding protein (DBP). Galnt11-deficient mice were unable to properly reabsorb DBP from the urine. Vitamin D plays an essential role in mineral homeostasis and its deficiency is associated with bone diseases such as rickets, osteomalacia, and osteoporosis. We therefore set out to examine the effects of the loss of Galnt11 on vitamin D homeostasis and bone composition. We found significantly decreased levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, consistent with decreased reabsorption of DBP. This was accompanied by a significant reduction in blood calcium levels and a physiologic increase in parathyroid hormone (PTH) in Galnt11-deficient mice. Bones in Galnt11-deficient mice were smaller and displayed a decrease in cortical bone accompanied by an increase in trabecular bone and an increase in a marker of bone formation, consistent with PTH-mediated effects on bone. These results support a unified model for the role of Galnt11 in bone and mineral homeostasis, wherein loss of Galnt11 leads to decreased reabsorption of DBP by megalin, resulting in a cascade of disrupted mineral and bone homeostasis including decreased circulating vitamin D and calcium levels, a physiological increase in PTH, an overall loss of cortical bone, and an increase in trabecular bone. Our study elucidates how defects in O-glycosylation can influence vitamin D and mineral homeostasis and the integrity of the skeletal system.

U-shaped association between serum calcium and in-hospital mortality in patients with congestive heart failure.

Serum calcium level is widely used for evaluating disease severity, but its impact on clinical outcomes in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) remains poorly understood. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between serum calcium levels and in-hospital mortality in CHF patients. We conducted a retrospective analysis utilizing clinical data from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care database, encompassing a cohort of 15983 CHF patients. This cohort was stratified based on their serum calcium levels, with the primary objective being the determination of in-hospital mortality. To assess the impact of admission serum calcium levels on in-hospital mortality, we employed various statistical methodologies, including multivariable logistic regression models, a generalized additive model, a two-piecewise linear regression model, and subgroup analysis. Comparative analysis of the reference group (Q3) revealed increased in-hospital mortality in the first quintile (Q1, the group with the lowest blood calcium level) and the fifth quintile (Q5, the group with the highest blood calcium level), with fully adjusted odds ratios of 1.38 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13-1.68, P=0.002] and 1.23 (95% CI: 1.01-1.5, P=0.038), respectively. A U-shaped relationship was observed between serum calcium levels and in-hospital mortality, with the lowest risk occurring at a threshold of 8.35mg/dL. The effect sizes and corresponding CIs below and above this threshold were 0.782 (95% CI: 0.667-0.915, P=0.0023) and 1.147 (95% CI: 1.034-1.273, P=0.0094), respectively. Stratified analyses confirmed the robustness of this correlation. Our study identifies a U-shaped association between serum calcium levels and in-hospital mortality in CHF patients, with a notable inflection point at 8.35mg/dL. Further investigation through prospective, randomized, and controlled studies is warranted to validate the findings presented in this study.

Ethnic-Based Assessment of Vitamin D and Magnesium Status in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Vitamin D deficiency is a major global health problem. Most previous studies focused attention on the significant role of sunlight exposure in the homeostasis of vitamin D and calcium blood levels. Magnesium is pivotal in the proper functioning of vitamin D, and the physiologic functions of different organs require a balanced vitamin D and magnesium status. The relationship between sunlight exposure and blood levels of vitamin D and magnesium has often been overlooked. The aim of this study was to evaluate vitamin D and magnesium status based on sunlight exposure and ethnicity in Bahraini and expatriate workers. A cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2018 and September 2019. One hundred and seventy-four subjects participated in this study were subdivided based on their ethnicity and work environment-dependent exposure to sunlight into four groups: (1) Bahraini exposed (n=94), (2) Bahraini non-exposed (n=25), (3) expatriate exposed (n=31), and (4) expatriate non-exposed (n=24). Blood levels of vitamin D and magnesium were evaluated for all the participants. Independent of ethnicity, vitamin D levels were insignificantly different among the studied groups and were all below the normal reference range. Yet, there was still a sunlight-dependent increase in vitamin D level that could be seen only in Bahraini workers. Magnesium levels were significantly higher in expatriates when compared to Bahraini workers. Sunlight-exposed expatriates had significantly higher magnesium levels than their Bahraini counterparts, while there was no significant difference between both ethnicities in the non-exposed groups. Country- and ethnic-specific definitions for vitamin D status and sunlight exposure are recommended. The assessment of magnesium status is pivotal in the overall assessment of vitamin D status.

The association of milk and multiple food avoidance with growth parameters in infants and children

BackgroundRecent studies reported that strict avoidance of milk products in cow's milk allergy (CMA) affects growth and bone turnover, causing negative calcium balance and changes in bone metabolism. ObjectiveTo investigate biochemical parameters to predict bone turnover and its relations with height and weight measurements and nutritional intake. MethodsHeight, weight, and body mass index z scores were plotted for age according to the World Health Organization. A 3-consecutive day food record was analyzed for nutritional values of foods. The blood levels of calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were determined. ResultsThe study included 69 controls, 66 children with isolated CMA, and 59 children with multiple food allergy (FA). The z scores for weight, height, and body mass index were lower in isolated CMA and multiple FA groups than controls (P < .001, P = .004, and P = .002, respectively). The nutritional intakes of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins B2 and B12, niacin, calcium, and phosphorus were significantly lower in isolated CMA and multiple FA than controls. In infants (≤2 years of age), although blood calcium level was in normal range, it was significantly lower in isolated CMA and multiple FA than in controls (P < .001). In children older than 2 years, PTH level was significantly higher in isolated CMA and multiple FA groups than in controls (P = .003). ConclusionOur study revealed that children with isolated CMA and multiple FA had a high nutrition gap, growth deceleration, and unbalanced bone metabolism, as illustrated by low blood calcium and elevated PTH levels.

Psychological profile of Chinese peritoneal dialysis patients during the Omicron pandemic in 2022

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine the psychological status of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients who were blocked during the 2022 Omic Pandemic in Shanghai.MethodsThis was an observational and cross-sectional study. We selected 172 PD patients from the peritoneal dialysis center of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, during the quarantine of the Omicron pandemic in Shanghai from April to May 2022. General data and biochemical indices were collected. The Kidney Disease Quality of Life (SF-36) questionnaire was used to evaluate the psychological state of the patients during the quarantine.ResultsAccording to the assessment of the SF-36 scale, the physiological and psychological health status of PD patients was better than that before quarantine (P < 0.05). According to the comparison of biochemical indices, the high-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol and body mass index (BMI) levels were lower in patients after quarantine than before quarantine, while the blood phosphorus, blood calcium and haemoglobin levels were greater after quarantine (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that health changes were positively correlated with age of penetration (years) (OR = 1.031, 95% CI = 1.005–1.058); however, physiological function was negatively correlated with sex (OR = 0.198, 95% CI = 0.044–0.899). Energy was significantly positively correlated with closed-loop time (OR = 1.063, 95% CI = 1.001–1.128) (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in biochemical indices or quality of life between APD patients and non-APD patients (P > 0.05). According to the results of the abstract independent sample T test, when comparing the various dimensions of the SF-36 scale, for the dimensions of physiological function, pain and energy, the PD patients were better than the HD patients were (P < 0.05). Similarly, for the dimension of physiological function, the HD patients were better than the PD patients were (P < 0.05). During the quarantine period from April to May in Shanghai, the infection rate of PD patients was lower than usual (P < 0.05).ConclusionsDuring the Omicron pandemic in Shanghai in 2022, PD patients exhibited relatively stable psychological and physiological states and a low infection rate. Compared with HD patients, PD patients had better adaptability. Especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, peritoneal dialysis has more advantages.

Risk Factors of Convulsions in Children With Rotavirus Gastroenteritis and Construction of a Nomogram Prediction Model.

This study aims to investigate and analyze the risk factors of convulsions in children with rotavirus gastroenteritis and to construct a nomogram prediction model. A retrospective analysis was performed on 940 cases of pediatric patients with rotavirus gastroenteritis treated in our hospital from December 2017 to December 2022. Based on whether convulsions occurred during hospitalization, patients were divided into the convulsion group (n = 135) and the convulsion-free group (n = 805). Clinical information of patients in both groups was collected, logistic regression analysis was carried out to analyze the convulsion risk factors pertaining to children with rotavirus gastroenteritis, and a nomogram prediction model was constructed. The univariate analysis revealed that fever, frequency of diarrhea, white blood cell count, blood calcium level, blood glucose level, CO 2 CP, creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB), and blood pH value were all factors that display statistically significant differences at the level of P = 0.05. Then, logistic regression analysis was carried out, taking the occurrence of such convulsions as the dependent variable and the aforementioned factors as independent variables. The results show that fever, frequency of diarrhea, blood calcium, CO 2 CP, and CK-MB were the independent risk factors ( P < 0.05), whereas the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (area under the curve) of the constructed nomogram prediction model based on these factors was 0.842 (95% confidence interval, 0.821-0.914). Frequency of diarrhea, blood calcium, CO 2 CP, and CK-MB are independent risk factors for the occurrence of convulsions in children with rotavirus gastroenteritis. The nomogram prediction model constructed based on these risk factors provides guidance and value in effectively preventing and controlling convulsions in children with rotavirus gastroenteritis.