Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative Research Articles

Study Protocol for a French Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating the Medico-Economic Impact of Surgical versus Endovascular Arteriovenous Access Creation for Hemodialysis in End-Stage Renal Disease (ENDO-FAV)

IntroductionVascular access is indispensable for performing hemodialysis in patients with end-stage renal disease. The Kidney Disease Outcome Quality Initiative and the French Health Authority advocate for native arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) as a primary option due to their association with lower morbidity, mortality, and enhanced quality of life. However, a significant proportion of AVFs fail to mature, and many require multiple re-interventions, increasing overall costs.To address these issues, endovascular techniques for AVF creation have been developed. These methods use energy-based technologies, avoiding vessel dissection and preserving perivascular tissues. Initial results are promising but these devices are expensive, and the technical act of creating an endovenous fistula is not recorded in the coding of the common classification of medical procedures (CCAM) and, as such, cannot be reimbursed by health insurance in France. While international studies suggest their effectiveness, no French studies have yet replicated or confirmed these findings in the local context, which would help support a reimbursement request from health insurance. MethodsThis protocol represents the first French medico-economic study to compare the two available endovascular AVF creation devices (Ellipsys® and WaveLinQ®) with traditional open surgery. This multicentre, comparative clinical trial will randomize patients into two parallel groups: (1) endovascular AVF creation using either the WaveLinQ® or Ellipsys® device, and (2) surgical proximal AVF creation (brachio-cephalic/basilic). Randomization will be balanced and stratified by centre and dialysis timing. Follow-up assessments will occur at 1 week, 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months. The primary objective is to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of endovascular AVF creation compared to open surgery from the perspective of the French healthcare system. The primary endpoint is the cost-utility ratio (cost per QALY gained) of endovascular AVF versus open surgery. Utility is assessed using the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire, with costs derived from micro-costing and the National Health Data System (SNDS). Secondary outcomes include health economics with total costs at 18 and 36 months, success rate of vascular access creation, AVF maturation and functionality, recirculation rates, early and late access failures, cannulation success, primary and secondary patency, reintervention rates, and adverse events. Based on a cost-utility threshold of €30,000 per QALY, cost difference estimates, and standard deviations from previous studies, anticipated sample size is 126 patients per group (endovascular and surgical), totaling 252 patients with about 142 patients for the Ellipsys® device and 110 patients for WaveLinQ®, based on the capacity of 7 centers using Ellipsys® and 4 centers using WaveLinQ®. ConclusionsThis multicentric randomized controlled trial will provide contemporary data on clinical outcomes and prognoses for endovascular AVF techniques, potentially establishing endovascular methods as a viable and cost-effective alternative to traditional surgical AVF creation.

Egyptian patients with axial spondyloarthritis: The frequency and predictors of renal impairment

Aim of the workTo determine the frequency of and risk factors for renal impairment in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). Patients and methodsFifty axSpA patients participated in this study. In accordance with the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (K/DOQI) criteria, patients were split into two groups: group 1comprised renal impairment and group 2 comprised non-renal impairment. The ankylosing spondylitis (AS) disease activity score (ASDAS), Bath AS disease activity index (BASDAI) and estimated glomerular filtration rate were assessed. ResultsThe mean age of patients was 38.9 ± 11.7 years, males were 54 % and the disease duration was 11.36 ± 6.1 years. The mean ASDAS score was 5.58 ± 1.38 and BASDAI was 5.18 ± 1.55. The eGFR was 76.4 ± 36.2 ml/min/1.73 m2 and 28 % had positive human leucocytic antigen (HLA-B27). 80 % were receiving biologic therapy. Nephropathy by ultrasound and renal impairment were detected in 34 % and 52 % of the cases respectively. The cumulative dose of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, low density cholesterol, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, proteinuria, ASDAS and BASDAI were significantly higher in those with renal impairment(p = 0.0001, p = 0.0001, p = 0.001, p = 0.035, p = 0.0001, p = 0.0001, p = 0.0001, p = 0.001, p = 0.001 respectively) while the eGFR and high density lipoprotein were significantly lower (p = 0.001and p = 0.02). Only the cumulative dose of NSAIDs was a significantly independent variable influencing the development of renal impairment (OR=1.01, CI; 1.001–1.02, p = 0.024) at cut-off level > 1166.3 g. ConclusionsRenal impairment is frequent in axSpA patients with decreased eGFR and high disease activity. The cumulative dose of NSAIDs is a significant predictor of renal impairment.

Can herbal teas be used as complementary therapies for kidney disorders? Results from a cross-sectional study

IntroductionChronic kidney disease (CKD) has limited treatment options and is becoming more and more common. Since apparent evidence in the literature shows that herbs may be reno-protective, we discussed different kinds of herbal tea in relation to CKD and related disorders. MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in health care centres located in a region in central Iran by enroling subjects aged 18 years and older. A self-reported questionnaire was used to evaluate the frequency and type of herbal tea drinks by participants. Anthropometric characteristics were measured and blood samples were obtained using a standard procedure. The Kidney Disease Outcome Quality Initiative (K/DOQI) guideline was the reference for diagnosis of CKD. Through multiple logistic models, the association between herbal tea drinking with CKD and related disorders was examined. ResultsOverall, 3 322 subjects were examined in this study. Three types of herbal tea were consumed by the study participants including green tea, chamomile-thyme tea, and borage tea. No statistically significant consistent associations between kidney disorders, including CKD, haematuria, albuminuria, and kidney stone and consumption of these herbal preparations were identified. ConclusionOverall, this study failed to suggest any consistent association between renal function and three categories of herbal tea in adult Iranian individuals.

Association between anemia and vitaminD deficiency in German seniors : Aretrospective data analysis.

Anemia and deficiency of vitaminD (VDD) are frequently seen in seniors and an association is suspected. Approximately one third of the German population is affected by VDD, with a rising prevalence among seniors. To analyze the association between anemia and VDD among German seniors aged ≥ 60years. Retrospective cross-sectional data analysis (n = 4008) in anationwide working laboratory medical center (January-December 2019). Study parameters included amongst others: hemoglobin (Hb), calcifediol (25D) and calcitriol (1.25D), glomerular filtration rate (GFR) to assess the kidney disease outcomes quality initiative (KDOQI) state. The inclusion criteria were age ≥ 60years, normal C‑reactive protein (CRP) and leucocyte levels. The 25D was estimated in 4008 patients and 1.25D only in 411 patients. Mean age75years (±8.61 years; 60-99 years) with 30.6% males; mean GFR 62 ml/min/1.73 m3 (±22.74); 20% of patients were anemic, 35% were deficient for 25D (< 50 nmol/l), with men > women (p = 0.014). Linear regression analysis revealed asignificant effect of 25D values < 30 nmol/l on hemoglobin in males of KDOQII-III and females of KDOQII-IV (R2 = 0.052; p = 0.005; and R2 = 0.124; p < 0.001, respectively). For 1.25D aweak but significant effect on hemoglobin independent of KDOQI was only seen in women (R2 = 0.200; p = 0.005). In this cohort deficiency of 25D and 1.25D was significantly associated with hemoglobin independent of renal function only in women but not in men.

Prevalence of chronic kidney disease in children of school going age visiting outpatient department of A Tertiary Care Hospital in Karachi, Pakistan.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) among children of school-going age. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Department of Pediatric Medicine, National Institute of Child Health, Karachi, Pakistan. Period: July 2023 to December 2023. Methods: A total of 130 children of both genders, aged between 5-15 years, visiting outpatient department of pediatric medicine were analyzed. Demographic and clinical information were noted. Laboratory investigations like urinalysis and serum creatinine were performed. CKD was diagnosed on the basis of “Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI)” guidelines. Results: In a total of 130 children, 67 (51.5%) children were male. Overall, the mean age was 8.43±2.45 years. Hypertension was diagnosed in 10 (7.7%) children. Anemia was present in 103 (79.2%) patients. The mean hemoglobin, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen were 9.41±1.98 g/dl, 0.48±0.37 mg/dl, and 34.20±33.18 mg/dl, respectively. CKD was diagnosed in 10 (7.7%) children. Among these 10 children diagnosed with CKD, 7 were having CKD stage-1 whereas CKD stage-2 was noted in 3 children. Presence of hypertension (p=0.006), and albuminuria (p&lt;0.001) were associated with CKD. Conclusion: The prevalence of CKD in school going age children was 7.7%. Presence of hypertension, and albuminuria were linked with CKD.

Assessment of Nutritional Intake in Patients With Kidney Failure Treated by Haemodialysis on Dialysis and Non-dialysis Days

Introduction/Aims/ObjectiveInadequate nutritional intake in haemodialysis (HD) patients increases the risk of muscle wasting, nutrient deficiencies, leading to an increased risk of additional morbidity and mortality. We aimed to assess nutritional intake on the dialysis and non-dialysis day of patients established on HD. MethodsWe employed a two-day dietary record, one on the day of dialysis and one on the non-dialysis day, and then determined nutritional intake using the Nutritics software. Muscle strength was assessed by hand grip strength (HGS) and body composition determined using multifrequency bioelectrical impedance recorded post-dialysis. ResultsWe recruited 51 established HD patients dialysing between May-July 2022, mean age 60±15 years, 52.9% male, and 51% diabetic. Only 25% achieved the calorie and protein intake recommended by Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI). Most patients had inadequate consumtion of fibre (96%), calcium (86%), iron (80%), zinc (82%), selenium (92%), folate (82%), vitamin A (88%), and (100%) vitamin D. On the other hand, the great majority followed the restriction guidelines for potassium (96%), phosphorus (86%), and sodium (84%), repectively. However, consumption was greater for potassium (P=0.007), phosphorus (P=0.015), and zinc (P=0.032) on non-dialysis vs dialysis days, but there was no difference in protein or calorie intake between days. ConclusionOur results suggest that many of our HD patients do not achieve the recommended nutritional targets. Patient compliance with restricting sodium, potassium and phosphate limits protein and calorie intake. HD patients are at increased risk of sarcopenia, so failure to achieve dietary protein intake will further increase this risk.

Twice Weekly versus Thrice Weekly Hemodialysis-A Pilot Cross-Over Equivalence Trial.

The 2015 Update of the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) Guideline for Hemodialysis Adequacy increased the contribution of residual kidney function in calculating standard Kt/Vurea (stdKt/Vurea). However, no study has assessed the effect of prescribing twice weekly hemodialysis according to this guideline on patients' quality of life or uremic solute levels. Twenty six hemodialysis patients with average residual urea clearance (Kru) 4.7±1.8 ml/min and hemodialysis vintage of 12±15 months (range two months to 4.9 years) underwent a cross-over trial comparing four weeks of twice weekly hemodialysis and four weeks of thrice weekly hemodialysis. Twice weekly hemodialysis was prescribed to achieve stdKt/Vurea 2.2 incorporating Kru using the 2015 KDOQI Guideline. Thrice weekly hemodialysis was prescribed to achieve spKt/Vurea 1.3 regardless of Kru. Quality of life and plasma levels of secreted uremic solutes and β2 microglobulin (β2m) were assessed at the end of each period. Equivalence testing between twice and thrice weekly hemodialysis based on the Kidney Disease Quality of Life instrument (primary analysis) was inconclusive. Symptoms as assessed by the secondary outcomes Dialysis Symptom Index and post-dialysis recovery time were not worse with twice weekly hemodialysis. StdKt/Vurea was adequate during twice weekly HD (2.7±0.5), and ultrafiltration rate and plasma potassium were controlled with minimally longer treatment times (twice weekly: 195±20 vs. thrice weekly: 191±17 minutes). Plasma levels of the secreted solutes and β2m were not higher with twice weekly than thrice weekly hemodialysis. Twice weekly hemodialysis can be prescribed using the higher contribution assigned to Kru by the 2015 KDOQI Guideline. With twice weekly hemodialysis, quality of life was unchanged, and the continuous function of the residual kidneys controlled fluid gain and plasma levels of potassium and uremic solutes without substantially longer treatment times.

The relationship between hypomagnesemia and albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Diabetic nephropathy is a prevalent cause of chronic kidney disease worldwide. Magnesium plays a critical role in insulin resistance, and insulin, in turn, regulates magnesium levels. We aimed to investigate the association between hypomagnesemia and albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This retrospective single-centre study encompassed 1178 patients aged 18 and above with T2DM, who attended our outpatient clinic between January 2019 and August 2020. Albuminuria levels were categorised according to Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative guidelines. In the literature, when examining cut-off values for hypomagnesemia, it is observed that studies typically use hospital normal level as a reference point. Hypomagnesemia, defined as magnesium levels below 1.6 mg/dL, was compared to normomagnesemia (magnesium between 1.6 and 2.4 mg/dL). The primary objective was to explore the impact of magnesium levels on albuminuria, while the secondary objective was to determine the prevalence of hypomagnesemia. The multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed according to age, gender (male), HbA1c, and presence of hypomagnesemia. The mean age of the participants was 58.7 ± 12.2 years, with 44% being male. Hypomagnesemia was identified in 5.3% of the patients. Advanced age and female gender were more common among patients with hypomagnesemia (p = .001). Magnesium levels exhibited a negative correlation with HbA1c and fasting blood glucose, and a positive correlation with creatinine levels (r = -.117, r = -.131, r = .117, p < .001 for all three variables). Hypomagnesemia was significantly more prevalent in patients with albuminuria (15.9% vs. 4.7%, p < .001). Moreover, participants with the presence of hypomagnesemia were independently associated with a higher risk of albuminuria (odds ratio 3,64 1.76-7.52, p = .001). Albuminuria is more frequently observed in patients with hypomagnesemia.

Principles of nutrition in chronic kidney disease in children - a review of the clinical trials and recommendations

Introduction: Children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) require a specialized diet to manage their condition and support healthy growth and development. A proper diet for children with CKD aims to control the intake of certain nutrients, such as protein, lipid, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and vitamin D, while ensuring they receive adequate nutrition for growth and development. Aim of the study: This article discusses the epidemiology, causes and pathomechanism of CKD in children. It also presents existing clinical trials and dietary recommendations from societies such as Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) 2024, Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) and Pediatric Renal Nutrition Taskforce (PRNT) and identifies potential sources of selected macronutrients and micronutrients in children's diets. Materials and methods: Comprehensive literature searches were performed across the main electronic databases of PubMed, Google Scholar, KDIGO2024, KDQQI and PRNT recommendations for studies published in the English language about dietary recommendations for children with CKD. Results: The approach to nutrition for children with CKD is still evolving, and specific macronutrient and micronutrient ratios should be established based on the clinical condition, the child's age, and body weight. Care should be taken to ensure that the child's diet is varied, and a healthy eating style should be promoted.

#672 Intradialytic hypotension and adverse symptoms are not related

Abstract Background and Aims Intradialytic hypotension (IDH) is the most common side-effect of intermittent hemodialysis (HD). Yet, its definition lacks consensus about the magnitude of blood pressure (BP) drops, occurrence of adverse symptoms (AS) and/or interventions. Generally, BP is measured twice/hour, while additional readings are carried out when AS arise. Consequently, AS became a prerequisite for the diagnosis of IDH, both in the National Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) and in the European Best Practice Guideline (EBPG). Yet, a large study on the associations between 8 IDH definitions and mortality, showed that an absolute nadir systolic blood pressure (SBP) &amp;lt;90 mmHg or &amp;lt;100 mmHg (with a pre-dialysis SBP &amp;lt; 160 mmHg or SBP ≥160 mmHg resp.) is most strongly associated with mortality. Neither AS nor interventions were related to outcome. Due to the absence of reliable studies, however, it is still unclear whether IDH and AS are related. Therefore, 1) the occurrence of (a)symptomatic IDH was evaluated according to the nadir-based definition; 2) relations between real-time AS and IDH were explored; 3) associations between IDH-susceptibility and physical intradialytic patient-reported outcome measures (PID-PROMS) were analysed. Methods Forty HD patients were cross-over randomized to standard HD (S-HD), cool HD (C-HD), low-(LV) and high-volume (HV) hemodiafiltration (HDF), each for two weeks. Every second week, BP was measured every 15 minutes during treatment. While AS were monitored real-time, PID-PROMS were documented after each modality with a modified dialysis symptom index [mDSI] questionnaire. The occurrence of symptomatic and asymptomatic IDH, defined as a SBP &amp;lt; 90 or 100 mmHg (depending on the pre-dialysis SBP), was evaluated. For each presentation of AS, we assessed its association with blood pressure by examining concurrent IDH using both the KDOQI/EBPG definitions and the nadir-based definition (Fig. 2). Patients were stratified into tertiles of IDH (IDH-prone, IDH-intermediate and IDH-resistant). The frequency and severity of discrete symptoms, recovery time and total symptom-burden were compared using logistic regression models and Kruskal-Willis tests. Results In 458 sessions, 222 IDH-episodes occurred of which 98% were asymptomatic. While nursing records revealed 24 real-time AS, 54% was BP-related and 17% fulfilled the nadir-based criteria, leaving 46% of AS unrelated to IDH (Fig. 2). IDH-prone patients experienced headaches more frequently (p = 0.01), and perceived dizziness (p = 0.05) and shivering (p &amp;lt; 0.01) more severely. No associations were found between IDH-susceptibility and symptom-burden, recovery time, or other discrete side-effects. Conclusions 1) Most IDH-episodes are asymptomatic; 2) Conversely, 46% of AS occur without IDH and (3) PID-PROMS are completely independent of IDH-susceptibility. 4) Symptom-based definitions severely underestimate IDH, when compared to a nadir-based IDH definition.

Epidemiological Characteristics of Chronic Renal Failure Patients of Hodeidah, Yemen in 2023

Chronic renal failure (CRF) is an emergent worldwide public health problem. The increasing incidence of CRF warrants a need for an epidemiological approach to better understand the disease and its prevention. Therefore, the study aims to describe the epidemiological characteristics of chronic renal failure patients in Hodeidah, Yemen. The study included 560 patients with CRF in retrospective study (a case series based on medical files) in Center of Dialysis and Renal Diseases of Hodeidah, Yemen from 1st January 2023 to 31st December 2023. The patients were diagnosed based on evidence – based clinical practice guideline of all stages of CRF that was extracted from the National Kidney Foundation Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (NKFKDOQI). Epidemiological data were reported with ethical approval consideration, data obtained were analyzed. 560 cases were diagnosed with renal failure, 555 patients (99.107 %) of them were diagnosed with CRF and 5 patients (0.89 %) were diagnosed with acute renal failure (ARF). CRF patients was founded 61.81 % in the males while 38.11 % in the females. However, this difference was statistically significant (X2= 30.921; p &lt; 0.00001). The age range of patients was from 5 to 95 years, where 54.64% of cases occurred more than 50 years then 39.28 % between 18 to 49 years and the lower frequency was in children less than 18 years (5.22%) with different significant ( X2= 226.314 ; p &lt; 0.00001). In addition, 81.98 % of patients in rural and 18.02 % in urban. The maximum cases were reported in summer session namely 13.21 % in July and 11.25 % in August. On the other hand , the major causes were chronic diseases 406 case (73.14 %) that diagnosed and recorded , 161 case (29 %) of hypertension ,132 case (23.78 %) of diabetes , 113 (20.36 %) of inflammation nephrolithiasis obstructive uropathy , 8 cases (1.44 %) of genetic polycystic renal disease , and 4 cases ( 0.72 % ) of sedative narcotic addiction and 137 case (24.68%) of unknown causes with different significant ( X2= 119.00 ; p &lt; 0.00001). The chronic diseases namely diabetes and hypertension were the major causes reported to develop the CRF, therefore, to prevent the development of CRF based on center for control diseases and control (CDC), managing risk factors.

The influence of near-infrared therapy on arteriovenous fistula patency in haemodialysis patients: A multicentre, randomised, controlled clinical trial.

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the preferred vascular access for patients undergoing haemodialysis (HD). AVF malfunction remains a major clinical problem and is a significant independent risk factor for death. Although far-infrared (FIR) therapy has been shown to reduce complications and improve the patency rate of AVFs in various studies, it has been cautiously recommended by the Kidney Disease Outcome Quality Initiative (KDOQI) guidelines for AVF care due to insufficient evidence. Therefore, it is necessary to identify more effective methods for preventing AVF dysfunction. Many in vitro studies and few clinical studies have examined the effects of near-infrared (NIR) therapy on the vasculature. This study will examine the effects of NIR therapy on AVF. A randomised, controlled, open-label, multicentre trial will compare the effect of NIR on AVF patency after 1 year of therapy with that of a control group of patients with existing AVF. One group of patients received NIR treatment above their AVFs, whereas the control group received regular care. The primary outcome is the primary fistula patency rate within 12 months. In addition, acute changes in inflammatory, vasodilatory and haemodynamic parameters after a single treatment in the first 40 participants will be examined. This study was registered in the Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR2300071305) at https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/. This study will explore the long-term and acute effects of NIR on AVFs. The study findings will provide information that can be used to develop new technical support for the prevention of AVF dysfunction in patients undergoing haemodialysis.

Biomedical Evaluation of Early Chronic Kidney Disease in the Air Force: Building a Predictive Model from the Taiwan Military Health Service.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common diseases worldwide. The increasing prevalence and incidence of CKD have contributed to the critical problem of high medical costs. Due to stressful environments, aircrew members may have a high risk of renal dysfunction. A better strategy to prevent CKD progression in Air Force personnel would be to diagnosis CKD at an early stage. Since few studies have been conducted in Taiwan to examine the long-term trends in early CKD in Air Force aircrew members, this study is highly important. We investigated the prevalence of CKD and established a predictive model of disease variation among aircrew members. In this retrospective study, we included all subjects who had received physical examinations at a military hospital from 2004 to 2010 and who could be tracked for four years. The Abbreviated Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Formula (aMDRD) was used to estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and was combined with the National Kidney Foundation/ Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (NKF-K/DOQI) to identify CKD patients. A total of 212 aircrew members were assessed. The results showed that the prevalence of CKD was 3.8%, 9.4%, 9.0%, and 9.4% in each of the four years. According to the logistic regression analysis, abnormal urobilinogen levels, ketones, and white blood cell (WBC) counts in urine and a positive urine occult blood test increased the risk of CKD. A positive urine occult blood test can be used to predict the future risk of CKD. Moreover, the generalized estimating equation (GEE) model showed that a greater risk of CKD with increased examination time, age and seniority had a negative effect. In conclusion, abnormal urobilinogen levels, ketones, and urine WBC counts in urine as well as a positive urine occult blood test might serve as independent predictors for CKD. In the future, we can focus not only on annual physical examinations but also on simple and accurate examinations, such as urine occult blood testing, to determine the risk of CKD and prevent its progression in our aircrew members.

Quantifying carotid stiffness in chronic kidney disease using ultrafast ultrasound imaging.

The mortality and disability of chronic kidney disease (CKD) are highly linked to the incidence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular events. Numerous clinical biochemical indicators of renal function often only increase in advanced stages of CKD, driving an urgent need for reliable indicators of atherosclerosis in early CKD. Ultrafast pulse wave velocity (ufPWV) can evaluate the stiffness of the straight carotid in vivo and quantitatively reflect the degree of early atherosclerosis. However, the use of ufPWV in CKD has not yet been reported. In this study, we aimed to explore the association between carotid stiffness, quantified using ufPWV, and renal function in CKD patients. This cross-sectional study enrolled a total of 582 participants between March 2017 and May 2022 in the Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Among those, 205 individuals without a history of CKD and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥90 mL/min/1.73 m2 were included as controls. According to the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (K/DOQI) expert group of the American Kidney Foundation staging for CKD, 44 stages 1 and 2 CKD patients were included in the early CKD group, whereas 49 stages 3, 4, and 5 CKD patients were included in the advanced CKD group. Clinical and serum parameters, ultrasonic characteristics including carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), and pulse wave velocity at the beginning of systole (PWV-BS) and pulse wave velocity at the end of systole (PWV-ES) of systole were analyzed. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and least significant difference (LSD) tests were performed to compare cIMT, PWV-BS, and PWV-ES among subgroups in pairs. Pearson's correlation analysis, scatter plots, and subgroups correlation analysis were used to determine the relationships among ultrasound characteristics (cIMT, PWV-BS, PWV-ES), and major cardiovascular risk factors. PWV-BS and PWV-ES for the early and advanced CKD groups were significantly higher than those for controls (all P<0.05). PWV-ES had the greatest correlation with age (r=0.474, P<0.001). PWV-ES had the greatest increase with age in the early CKD group (r=0.698, P<0.001). ufPWV can be used for the quantitative evaluation of carotid stiffness in CKD patients. PWV-ES may be more advantageous in the assessment of carotid atherosclerosis in early CKD patients.

The Role of Uromodulin in Chronic Kidney Disease – A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Numerous studies have investigated the function of the biomarker uromodulin (UMD), which has shown promise in the diagnosis and severity assessment of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the results continue to be contradictory and inconclusive. Consequently, our goal was to investigate the connection between UMD and CKD patients, with a focus on their diagnostic utility and association with the severity of CKD based on the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) classification. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus using a predefined string to identify relevant studies. Included studies diagnosed CKD based on GFR according to Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative KDOQI guidelines or by calculating eGFR using the MDRD formula, meeting predefined criteria. Quality assessment was conducted using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS). The main outcome was the mean difference (MD) in serum UMD levels across CKD stages. Results: A total of 5 articles involving 1,094 subjects fulfilled our inclusion criteria and were included in our systematic review and meta-analysis. Significant differences in UMD levels were observed across multiple comparisons. When comparing CKD patients to controls, UMD levels showed a substantial MD of –115.719 (95% CI –163.297, -68.141). Similarly, UMD levels exhibited significant MDs when comparing controls vs. CKD 1 71.185 (95% CI 39.572, 102.798), controls vs. CKD 2 81.531 (95% CI 40.570, 122.491), controls vs. CKD 3 130.886 (95% CI 99.095, 162.677), controls vs. CKD 4 180.317 (95% CI 141.373, 219.262), controls vs. CKD 5 198.033 (95% CI 155.573, 240.494) and CKD 1-2-3 vs. CKD 4-5 89.540 (95% CI 47.561, 131.518). Conclusions: In conclusion, our systematic review and meta-analysis highlights pronounced differences in UMD levels across multiple comparisons in CKD. When comparing CKD patients with controls, a significant decrease in UMD levels is evident, indicative of potential implications in renal pathology. Moreover, the observed variations in UMD levels between different CKD stages underscore its potential utility as a biomarker for disease severity and progression. These findings contribute to our understanding of UMD dynamics in CKD and suggest avenues for further research into its diagnostic and prognostic significance in clinical practice.

Prevalence and risk factors of erythropoiesis stimulating agents hyporesponsiveness in chronic hemodialysis patients attending nephrology center of Benghazi

Background: Anemia is quite prevalent in end stage renal disease patients. Despite availability of different forms of erythropoiesis stimulating agents, many end stage renal disease patients are anemic according to National Kidney Foundation’s Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative guidelines. Patient and methods: we conduct a cross sectional study between May 2022 and July 2022, targeting adult chronic hemodialysis patients, to investigate the prevalence of erythropoiesis stimulating agents hyporesponsiveness, to assess if patients are receiving the appropriate weight-based dosing of these agents, and to identify additional risk factors behind inadequate response to therapy.390 end stage renal disease patients are receiving chronic hemodialysis at nephrology center of Benghazi. Incident hemodialysis patients, patients with other hematological disease or with malignancy are excluded. Finally, 150 patients met the inclusion criteria and enrolled in the study. Results: 100 (66.7%) are male, and 50 (33.3%) are females. Age is 50.6 ±13.2 years. Erythropoiesis stimulating agents hyporesponsiveness is prevalent in chronic hemodialysis patients, 130 (86.7%) patients are anemic as their Hb levels were &lt;11 g/dl, while only 20 (13.3%) patients have Hb levels of &gt;/=11g/dl. There is a significant relationship between gender and ESA response, as hyporesponsiveness is more observed in male patients (P &lt; .005). We find that 105 (70%) patients are receiving an appropriate weight-based dose, while only 45 (30%) patients were giving an inappropriate dose. When the relationship between ESA dosing and patients' response to ESA is examined, we find, that despite receiving the appropriate dose, 90 (60%) patients are ESA hyporesponsive, while only 15 (10%) are responsive to the appropriate weight-based dose. However, no statistical association is found between ESA hyporesponsiveness and age or weekly hours of dialysis. Conclusion: despite receiving an appropriate dosage of ESA, our study population shows high prevalence of ESA hyporesponsive anemic state. New strategies should be applied to detect risk factors and adopt therapeutic measures to reduce its high prevalence in hemodialysis population.

Extent of Achieving KDOQI Targets For hemodialysis Adequacy in Libyan dialysis patients: A Multicentre Cross-Sectional Study

Dialysis is a therapy to maintain the lives of end stage renal disease patients (ESRD), and the adequacy of hemodialysis is essential as it can improve patient’s survival, quality of life and biochemical profiles. This study aimed to evaluate the extent of achieving Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) targets for dialysis adequacy, haemoglobin level, mineral bone disorders and nutritional status among hemodialysis patients. patients and method: This study was carried out on 286 regular haemodialysis adult patients from eleven hemodialysis centers in Libya. Patients subjected to BMI calculations. Blood samples collected for complete blood count, serum albumin, blood urea pre and post dialysis session, serum creatinine, total serum calcium, serum phosphate, serum alkaline phosphatase, C reactive protein, and serum iPTH levels. Targets measures based on the KDOQI Clinical Practice Guidelines. Result: Mean Kt/V was 1.31±0.40.only 174 (60.84%) patients had adequate dialysis dose (Kt/V&gt;1.2). Mean iPTH was 490.08±694.7. According to the KDOQI, guideline 19.2% of the patients was within the target range for parathormone level. 26.92 % of studied patients had a haemoglobin level of 11gm/dl or more. Mean serum albumin is 3.81±0.64, hypoalbuminemia (albumin &lt;3.5g/dl) was in 27.98% of studied patients. Conclusion: According to KDOQI guidelines 39.16% of the studied patients did not achieve the target dose for adequate clearance, 73.08% did not achieve the target haemoglobin level; and, only 19.2% of the studied patients were within the target range for parathyroid hormone level. According to BMI as nutritional markers, 14.0% of studied patients were underweight and 27.98% were with serum albumin below (3.5 g/dl).

Predicting recurrent interventions after radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula creation with machine learning and the PREDICT-AVF web app.

Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) guidelines discourage ongoing access salvage attempts after two interventions prior to successful use or more than three interventions per year overall. The goal was to develop a tool for prediction of radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) intervention requirements to help guide shared decision-making about access appropriateness. Prospective cohort study of 914 adult patients in the United States and Canada undergoing radiocephalic AVF creation at one of the 39 centers participating in the PATENCY-1 or -2 trials. Clinical data, including demographics, comorbidities, access history, anatomic features, and post-operative ultrasound measurements at 4-6 and 12 weeks were used to predict recurrent interventions required at 1 year postoperatively. Cox proportional hazards, random survival forest, pooled logistic, and elastic net recurrent event survival prediction models were built using a combination of baseline characteristics and post-operative ultrasound measurements. A web application was created, which generates patient-specific predictions contextualized with the KDOQI guidelines. Patients underwent an estimated 1.04 (95% CI 0.94-1.13) interventions in the first year. Mean (SD) age was 57 (13) years; 22% were female. Radiocephalic AVFs were created at the snuffbox (2%), wrist (74%), or proximal forearm (24%). Using baseline characteristics, the random survival forest model performed best, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.75 (95% CI 0.67-0.82) at 1 year. The addition of ultrasound information to baseline characteristics did not substantially improve performance; however, Cox models using either 4-6- or 12-week post-operative ultrasound information alone had the best discrimination performance, with AUROCs of 0.77 (0.70-0.85) and 0.76 (0.70-0.83) at 1 year. The interactive web application is deployed at https://predict-avf.com. The PREDICT-AVF web application can guide patient counseling and guideline-concordant shared decision-making as part of a patient-centered end-stage kidney disease life plan.

KDOQI Commentary on the KDIGO 2022 Update to the Clinical Practice Guideline for Diabetes Management in CKD

The Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guideline for diabetes management in chronic kidney disease (CKD) was updated in 2022, just 2 years after the previous update. The need for this rapid update is reflective of the recent and unprecedented positive results of numerous clinical trials aimed at reducing kidney and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in people with diabetes. The Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) work group for diabetes in CKD, convened by the National Kidney Foundation, provides herein a commentary on these changes, particularly the implications for health care in the United States. Changes to the KDIGO guideline mirror the evolution of sodium/glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists from purely antihyperglycemic agents to cardiorenal-metabolic therapeutics, and the lower estimated glomerular filtration rate of≥20mL/min/1.73m2 for SGLT2 inhibitor initiation. New data have also brought the addition of the first-in-class, Federal Drug Administration-approved nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenone as an agent to reduce cardiorenal end points. While there has been significant progress in innovation, there remain serious challenges to implementation, particularly in the United States where inequities in insurance coverage and high costs limit their use, particularly in vulnerable populations, ultimately widening health care disparities.

Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial of APERTO-Paclitaxel Drug-Eluting Balloon Angioplasty Versus Standard Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty in Dysfunctional Hemodialysis Grafts and Native Fistulae.

to assess the safety and efficacy of APERTO-Paclitaxel-coated balloon angioplasty versus standard angioplasty for the treatment of dysfunctional hemodialysis shunts and native arteriovenous fistulae. consecutive patients with dysfunctional dialysis related to underlying efferent vein stenosis were included and randomized 1:1 to either APERTO-paclitaxel drug-coated balloon (study arm) or standard percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (control arm). Primary endpoint is time from treatment until dialysis access dysfunction according to standardized Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI)-guidelines and assessed by Kaplan-Meier survival curves and tested for significance with log-rank analysis. Secondary endpoints include device, technical, and clinical success of the index angioplasty procedure. The study included 103 patients (n=51 study-group) with a de novo (n=33) dysfunctional native arteriovenous fistula (n=79) in the forearm (n=60). The majority of included patients were male with a mean age of 69.8 years, presenting with a dysfunctioning autologous arteriovenous fistula in the forearm. Device-related complications did not occur in any of the included patients. Functional hemodialysis access without need for re-intervention at 1 year after index procedure was found in n=10 (19.6%) and n=5 (9.6%) of patients treated with, respectively, paclitaxel drug-coated balloon and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (p=0.612). A nonsignificant benefit of paclitaxel drug-coated balloon (n=5; 25%) over percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (n=1; 11%) was found (p=0.953) in de novo lesions in autologous fistulas. APERTO-paclitaxel drug-coated balloon is a safe balloon catheter to manage dysfunctional hemodialysis access; however, longer period of adequate hemodialysis circuit functioning after endovascular index stenosis treatment, using APERTO-paclitaxel drug-coated balloon versus percutaneous transluminal angioplasty could not be demonstrated. APERTO-paclitaxel drug-coated balloon catheter is a safe device to manage dysfunctional hemodialysis access. Compared to conventional angioplasty balloon, the APERTO drug-coated balloon will not result in longer period of adequate hemodialysis circuit functioning. A non-significant benefit of APERTO drug-coated balloon was found in de novo lesions in autologous fistulas.