Serum Phosphorus Research Articles

Hypophosphatemic rickets and short stature.

An 18-month-old male presented with gross motor delay and poor growth (weight z-score -2.21, length z-score -4.26). Radiographs showed metaphyseal irregularities suggesting metaphyseal dysplasia and sagittal craniosynostosis. Biochemical evaluation supported hypophosphatemic rickets [serum phosphorus 2.3mg/dL (reference range (RR) 4.3-6.8), alkaline phosphatase 754 unit/L (RR 156-369)] due to renal phosphate wasting (TmP/GFR 4.3mg/dL, normal for age 4.3-6.8), with C-terminal fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) 125 RU/mL (>90 during hypophosphatemia suggests FGF23-mediated hypophosphatemia). Treatment was initiated with calcitriol and phosphate. Genetic analysis showed a pathogenic variant of FGF23: c.527G > A (p.Arg176Gln) indicative of autosomal dominant hypophosphatemic rickets (ADHR). Consistent with reports linking iron deficiency with the ADHR phenotype, low ferritin was detected. Following normalization of ferritin level (41ng/mL) with oral ferrous sulfate replacement, biochemical improvement was demonstrated (FGF23 69 RU/mL, phosphorus 5.0mg/dL and alkaline phosphatase 228 unit/L). Calcitriol and phosphate were discontinued. Three years later, the patient demonstrated improved developmental milestones, linear growth (length Z-score -2.01), radiographic normalization of metaphyses, and stabilization of craniosynostosis. While the most common cause of hypophosphatemic rickets is X-linked hypophosphatemia, other etiologies should be considered as treatment differs. In ADHR, normalization of iron leads to biochemical and clinical improvement.

Association between composite dietary antioxidant and bone mineral density in children and adolescents aged 8–19 years: findings from NHANES

Dietary antioxidants may have beneficial effects on bone health, but it remains uncertain in children and adolescents. This study investigates the association of composite dietary antioxidant index (CDAI) with bone mineral density (BMD) in children and adolescents aged 8–19 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2010. The study assessed the relationship between CDAI and BMD in 2994 individuals aged 8–19 years (average age 13.48 ± 3.32 years) from the NHANES 2007–2010. Multivariate linear regression analyses were utilized to detect the association between CDAI and total spine, femur neck, and total femur BMD, adjusting for confounders including age, race/ethnicity, sex, poverty income ratio (PIR), body mass index (BMI), serum phosphorus and calcium. Stratified analyses and interaction tests were performed to examine the stability of the results. The weighted characteristics showed that subjects in the fourth CDAI quartile were more likely to be older, men, and Non-Hispanic White. They have higher values of serum total calcium and phosphorus. After adjusting all confounders, CDAI was positively associated with the total spine (β = 0.0031 95% CI 0.0021–0.0040), total femur (β = 0.0039 95% CI 0.0028–0.0049), and femur neck BMD (β = 0.0031 95% CI 0.0021–0.0040) in children and adolescents. Furthermore, we found no interaction effects between different race/ethnicity, age, and sex groups. Our findings suggest that dietary intake of multiple antioxidants was positively associated with BMD in children and adolescents. These findings provide valuable evidence for improving bone health in the early stages of life. However, more prospective studies are required to validate our findings and their causal relationship.

Serum level of sclerostin and vitamin D in children with epilepsy

BackgroundEpileptic children can pose an additional risk of poor bone health; this study aimed to evaluate the influence of anti-seizure medications (ASMs) on vitamin D level and sclerostin as a bone turnover biomarker in children with epilepsy.Subject and methodsThis case–control comparative study was conducted on 180 children aged from 5–18 years diagnosed with epilepsy according to the definition of the International League Against Epilepsy on ASMs for more than 3 months and were classified into 90 epileptic children on ASM monotherapy and 90 epileptic children on ASM polytherapy, in addition to 90 healthy children age- and sex-matched who served as controls. After obtaining basic data, laboratory investigations were performed, including serum calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, and serum sclerostin.ResultsWhen we compared epileptic patients to the control group, there was a statistically significant low level of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus and a high level of sclerostin among both epileptic groups with mono or polytherapy. Sclerostin has a statistically significant negative correlation with vitamin D, alkaline phosphatase and parathyroid hormone. Additionally, it has a negative correlation with serum phosphorus, but without a significant correlation. On the other hand, sclerostin has a statistically positive correlation with age and serum calcium, but without a significant correlation. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to predict the contributing factors of sclerostin. Only duration of treatment and BMI were significant predictors of high levels of sclerostin. In contrast, the other factors failed to show any significant contribution.ConclusionThe present study showed that ASMs modulate the serum levels of sclerostin and vitamin D hence, might be involved in their adverse effects on bone.

The Effect of Renastart Formula Supplementation in Serum Electrolytes in Children with Acute Kidney Injury

Abstract Background patients of renal disease suffer from electrolyte disturbances including hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, hyponatremia, hypocalcemia and hypermagnesemia. Unfortunately, patients with kidney disease require close monitoring for serum electrolytes to maintain normal levels; with traditional nutritional interventions they may need receiving potassium and phosphorus binders Aim: This study will concentrate on the effect and tolerability of Renastart formula supplementation on correction and maintaining serum levels of electrolytes in AKI or AKI on top of CKD pediatric patients. Methods Double arm clinical convenient trial, conducted in Pediatric Nephrology Unit,Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt, where 24 participants who had AKI or AKI on top of CKD with hyperphosphatemia and / or hyperkalemia were recruited, the mean of age of participants was 4.1±3.15 years ranged from 0.5 to 10 years. Subjects were divided into two groups, 12 patients per group (group A received a calcium carbonate (phosphorus binder) (9 patients) with dosage 45-65 mg/kg/day orally alone or withsodium polystyrene sulfonate (potassium binder) (11 patients) with dosage 0.5-1mg/kg/day oral and group B received Renastart formula supplemented with breast milk, standard infant formula or diet), the dosage ratio was adjusted to be 1:3 (Renastart was 1/4 daily caloric intake) if serum potassium level ≥5.5 - <6 meq/L and / or serum phosphorus > 7mg/dl. But, if potassium level was ≥ 6 meq/L, the ratio was 1:1 (Renastart was ½ daily caloric intake). Readjusting dosage ratio was according to serum electrolyte levels response for treatment. Follow up of serum levels of potassium was every day until its serum level returned to normal then every month for three months and serum phosphorus was every month for three consecutive months. Results All the included subjects in both groups had high serum potassium (> 5.5 meq/L) and / or high serum phosphorus (>7 mg/dl) upon enrollment, mean serum potassium and serum phosphorus were (5.7±0.41 meq/L) (7.2±1.6 mg/dl) respectively. Regarding the decrease of serum potassium, Renastart formula supplementation in group B and potassium binders in group A resulted in equal decrease in serum potassium levels; Potassium after 3 months of management in group B was (4.22±0.28 mEq/L) (p value between 3rd month- baseline month in group B p < 0.01) and potassium binders in group A (4.48±0.27 mEq/L) (p value between 3rd month – baseline month in group A p < 0.01). Renastart formula in group B ((potassium after 1 month of management = 4.7±0.32 meq/L) (p value between 1st month – baseline month in group B p < 0.01)) had more rapid effect than potassium binders in group A during 1st month of the study ((potassium after 1 month of management =5.1±0.41 meq/L) (p value between 1st month – baseline month in group A p > 0.05). Regarding decrease in serum phosphorus, Renastart formula supplementation in group B resulted in more decrease in serum phosphorus levels though both showed significant drop in phosphorus level (( serum phosphorus after 3 months of management = 4.60±0.29 mg/dl (p value between 3rd month – baseline month in group B p = 0.002)) in comparison to that achieved by phosphorus binders in group A ((5.21±0.29mg/dl) (p value between 3rd month – baseline month in group A p = 0.01)), moreover Renastart supplementation in group B was more rapid than phosphorus binders in group A in decrease serum phosphorus (p value between 1st month and baseline in group B p = 0.002) (p value between 1st month and baseline in group A p = 0.17) Conclusion We can conclude that Renastart formula supplementation was more rapid than potassium binders in decreasing serum potassium levels in AKI pediatric patients, moreover more effective and rapid than phosphorus binders in decreasing serum phosphorus.

Comparative Study Evaluating the Effect of the Administration of Vitamin K1 versus Placebo on Vascular Calcification in Haemodialysis Patients

Abstract Background Cardiovascular calcification is a risk factor and contributor to morbidity and mortality in End stage kidney disease patients. Cardiovascular calcification is most likely due to an imbalance of promoters (e.g. Calcium and phosphate) and inhibitors (e.g. fetuin-A and matrix Gla protein). Aim of the Work We aimed to study the effect of oral vitamin k1 on serum carboxylated Matrix gla protein in patients on maintenance hemodialysis and to study its effect as an important marker of vascular calcification. Patients and Methods This Placebo Controlled clinical trial was conducted for 3 months on 80 adult ESRD patients on regular Hemodialysis randomly allocated into 2 groups of either vitamin K1 versus oral placebo tablet administration for 3 months. Patients in both groups were age and sex matched, study group included 18 (45%) males and 22 (55%) females with mean age ± SD 47.350 ± 14.420 years, while the placebo group included 16 (40%) males and 24 (60%) with mean age ± SD 49.500 ± 14.509 years, with no significant difference between both groups as regard demographic data, access of hemodialysis, and duration of Hemodialysis. Results There was no significant change in bone parameters (serum Ca, PO4 & Ca/PO4 product) after 3 months of vit K1 administration compared to baseline in the study group. Serum phosphorus levels showed a minimal, yet statistically significant decrease after 3 months of placebo administration, this might be attributed to the different doses of PO4 binders in patients of both groups. Consequently, Ca/ PO4 product showed a statistically significant decrease after 3 months of placebo administration (P = 0.002), mostly attributed to the significant decrease in serum phosphorus in the same group over the same period. We observed that serum MGP levels significantly increased after administration of vitamin k1 in study group (P < 0.001) with 78.05% increase. However, a much lower increase, yet statistically significant increase in serum MGP level was noticed in the placebo group (P < 0.001) with 40.60 % increase. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups according to their risk factors regarding smoking, HTN, HCV, DM, and ISHD. Conclusion We concluded that Oral vitamin K1 therapy significantly increased serum active form of Matrix GLA protein levels among hemodialysis patients with potential decrease in cardiovascular calcification and cardiovascular diseases.

Effect of Dialysis Modality and Membrane Permeability on FGF 23 Level and Cardiovascular Calcification in ESRD Patients

Abstract Introduction Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and vascular calcification is one of the strongest predictors of cardiovascular risk. The prevalence of vascular calcification increases as glomerular filtration rate (GFR) declines and calcification occurs years earlier in CKD patients than in the general population. (26). Aim of the Study To study the effect of hemodialysis modality in controlling FGF-23and to determine the impact of FGF23 on cardiovascular calcification Patients and Methods We selected 50 patients ESRD maintained on hemodialysis divided into 2 groups, Group 1: comprised of 25 patients maintained on hemodialysis with high flux dialyzer and Group 2: comprised of 25 maintained on weekly session of hemodiafiltration and comparison between both groups regarding FGF23 serum level in addition to cardiovascular screening for calcifications using ECHO, Carotid intima-media thickness, and carotid duplex. Results we found that Post dialysis FGF23 was significantly lower in “hemodiafiltration patients” than ‘hemodialysis patients” and Reduction ratio was significantly higher in “hemodiafiltration patients”(P < 0.001).ECHO score and carotid duplex score were insignificantly different between both groups, but carotid intima-media thickness was significantly higher in haemodialysis patients (P value 0.035). Post HDF FGF 23 had a significant positive correlation with IMT (r = 0.579, P = 0.008). Serum FGF23 post-HD and HDF had significant positive correlation with serum Calcium (r = 0.659, P = 0.002), (r = 0.474, P = 0.035), PTH (r = 0.485, P = 0.03), (r = 547, P = 0.013) and CRP (r = 0.646, P = 0.002), (r = 707, P < 0.001) and serum Phosphorus (r = 0.462, P = 0.04), (r = 478, P = 0.033) respectively. In HD group Carotid Duplex Score had significant positive correlation with serum Ca (r = 0.469, P = 0.037), while in HDF group Carotid Duplex Score had significant positive correlation with PTH (r = 0.59, P = 0.006). Conclusion Using online HDF technique showed a significant reduction of FGF23 and improvement of carotid intima-media thickness calcification score.

Radiological Assessment of Hand and Wrist Bones in Malnourished Children

Abstract Background Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) is still an important health problem that is responsible for childhood morbidity and mortality leading to permanent impairment of physical and mental growth. Objective This study is designed to assess the appearance of ossification centers of lower end of radius and ulna, carpals, metacarpals and phalanges in normal children and malnourished children then comparing between them, to detect early changes in bone growth in malnourished children. Subjects and Methods This case-control cross-sectional study included 45 malnourished children and 45 age and sex matched controls whose ages ranged between 6 months and 5 years. The patients were recruited from Pediatric Nutrition Clinic of Ain Shams University. All children (malnourished and control) were examined for anthropometric parameters (weight, height, body mass index (BMI) and mid upper arm circumference (MUAC)), investigated for serum calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphates and had a plain X-ray done on left hand and wrist (posteroanterior (P-A) view), the X-ray was analyzed by using A Digital Atlas of Skeletal Maturity. Results The plain X-ray hand and wrist showed delayed appearance of ossification centers in malnourished infants and children (97.8% had delayed bone age) when compared to controls (25.5% had delayed bone age) which was statistically highly significant with P-value < 0.01. Signs of vitamin D deficiency rickets together with serum calcium, phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase were statistically significantly lower in the cases when compared to the controls with P-value < 0.01. The statistical measurements of mean ± SD regarding weight of case group and control group was (9.05 ± 2.48, 13.54 ± 3.81) with P-value < 0.01 which is highly significant, regarding length or height was (79.51 ± 12.78, 88.94 ± 15.02) with P-value < 0.01 which is highly significant, regarding MUAC was (11.38 ± 1.91, 16.02 ± 1.26) with P-value < 0.01 which is highly significant. Conclusion X-ray hand and wrist for malnourished infants and children showed delayed appearance of ossification centers when compared to matched controls.

Effect and safety of Burosumab in the treatment of 4 children with X-linked hypophosphatemia

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of treatment with Burosumab in pediatric X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) patients. Methods: In this retrospective case study, 4 children with pediatric XLH, who were treated with Burosumab in Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University and Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong First Medical University from July 2022 to December 2023, were selected as the study objects. We collected and analyzed their clinical characteristics, biochemical indicators, imaging results, and treatment. The children were followed up every 3 months until December 2023, and the clinical outcomes and adverse drug reactions after treatment were evaluated. Results: Of the 4 patients, 3 were males and 1 was female; they were aged 6.7, 2.9, 2.1, and 2.3 years, respectively. Three patients had previously received treatment with phosphate supplements and active vitamins, but their wadding gait and lower limb deformities did not improve significantly, neither did their imaging changes of active richets. The initial dose of Burosumab in the 4 patients was 0.8 mg/kg, administered subcutaneously every 2 weeks, with a treatment course of 0.8-1.3 years. The fasting serum phosphorus and tubular maximum reabsorption of phosphate/glomerular filtration rate (TmP/GFR) of the 4 patients before treatment were 0.72, 0.95, 0.81, 0.66 mmol/L and 0.67, 0.85, 0.87, 0.61 mmol/L, respectively. At the last follow-up, the fasting serum phosphorus and TmP/GFR levels were significantly increased (0.96, 1.09, 1.09, 0.90 mmol/L, and 0.85, 0.79, 1.03, 0.98 mmol/L, respectively). Among them, only the TmP/GFR level (1.17 mmol/L) in case 2 achieved normal values at 3 months post-therapy, while the rest did not reach the normal range for children of the same age. After treatment, the alkaline phosphatase levels of all patients gradually decreased (the values were 461, 240, 423, and 237 U/L, respectively), and the ALP levels in cases 2 and 4 returned to normal at the last visit. Case 4 showed a slight increase in parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels after 9 months of treatment, while the PTH levels in the rest 3 cases remained normal. Case 1 underwent a 6-minute walking test, and the walking distance increased from 245 m to 570 m. Abnormal gait, lower limb deformity, and the severity of rickets in the 4 patients had all improved. No adverse drug reactions such as nephrocalcinosis, local skin injection reaction, hyperphosphatemia, or vitamin D deficiency were observed. Conclusion: Burosumab can improve clinical symptoms in children with XLH with a good safety profile.

Associations of modifiable factors with risk of irritable bowel syndrome.

Modifiable factors were found to be associated with the risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in observational studies, but whether these associations are causal is uncertain. We conducted a Mendelian randomization (MR) study to systematically explore the causal associations of modifiable factors with IBS. Summary-level statistical data for IBS was obtained from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis of UK Biobank (40,548 cases and 293,220 controls) and the international collaborative Bellygenes initiative (12,852 cases and 139,981 controls). Genetic instruments associated with the exposures at the genome-wide significance (p < 5 × 10-8) level were selected from previous GWASs. Mendelian randomization was performed using inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method, supplemented with several sensitivity analyses to evaluate potentially causal relationships between identified contributing factors and IBS. Furthermore, we applied another database from FinnGen (8,116 IBS cases and 276,683 controls) to testify the reliability of the significant associations. Seven convincing modifiable factors were significantly associated with IBS after correction for multiple testing. Genetically predicted smoking initiation (OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.06-1.18, p = 1.03 × 10-4), alcohol consumption (OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.34-0.64, p = 3.49 × 10-6), sedentary behavior (OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.07-1.28, p = 4.02 × 10-4), chronotype (OR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.88-0.96, p = 4.42 × 10-4), insomnia (OR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.15-1.24, p = 7.59 × 10-19), education (OR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.74-0.88, p = 5.34 × 10-7), and visceral adiposity (OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 1.06-1.24, p = 7.96 × 10-4). We additionally identified several suggestive factors, including serum magnesium, serum phosphorus, physical activity, lifetime smoking, intelligence, lean body mass, and body mass index (BMI). After pooling the effect estimates from FinnGen, the associations remained significant except for chronotype. This MR analysis verified several modifiable risk factors for IBS, thus prevention strategies for IBS should be considered from multiple perspectives on these risk factors.

Protective Effect of Probiotic Against Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease: A Randomized Clinical Study

Abstract Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a gradual, irreversible disease with severe global health implications. By raising the level of urea toxins in the body, gut microbiota dysbiosis may hasten the onset of chronic renal disease. Probiotics have been recognized to keep the intestinal microbiota’s physiological equilibrium. In an effort to develop alternatives to chronic hemodialysis, much research has been carried out, especially for elderly patients who face psychological challenges. Objectives: The goal of this study is to assess the therapeutic benefits of probiotics on CKD patients. Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical trial was carried out at the Dialysis Center of Al-Diwaniyah Medical Hospital in Diwaniyah Governorate. Forty-two patients with end-stage renal disease on regular hemodialysis were enrolled, with 21 patients receiving oral probiotic supplementation in addition to standard care, and 21 patients receiving only standard care. Blood samples were collected at the baseline and after eight weeks, and several biomarkers were measured, including estimated glomerular filtration rate, creatinine, urea, phosphorus, albumin, and indoxyl sulfate. Results: The results showed that there was a significant difference in the mean difference of blood urea (P = 0.008) and serum phosphorus (P = 0.004) among groups, and the significant level was attributed to the probiotic group. However, the other biomarkers were not affected by the treatment. Conclusion: The use of oral probiotics for 8 weeks in Iraqi patients on hemodialysis can improve urea and phosphorus levels and safeguard the intestinal epithelial barrier in CKD patients.

Evaluation of Erythropoietin Stimulating Agent’s Responsiveness and Associated Factors in Hemodialysis Patients with Anemia

Abstract Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients often develop erythropoietin-deficient anemia. Erythropoietin stimulating agents (ESAs) are the conventional treatment for CKD anemia, but patient responses vary. About 10%–15% of erythropoietin-treated patients may not respond, thus identifying hyporesponsiveness causes may help overcome resistance. Objective: This study is designed to evaluate ESA therapy’s responsiveness and to identify possible contributing factors for ESA resistance. Materials and Methods: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2022 and February 2023 comprised 150 CKD and patients with anemia in a multicenter dialysis unit. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were obtained. The weekly body-weight-adjusted ESA dose divided by hemoglobin concentration is calculated as the erythropoietin resistance index (ERI). ERI values of 5 (responsive), 5–15 (hyporesponsive), and &gt;15 (resistant). Results: A total of 150 patients were enrolled among whom 86 (57.3%) were males with a mean age 51.6 ± 14.9 years. Regarding responses of the patients to ESA, 81 patients (54%) were hyporesponsive, 66 patients (44%) were resistanct and 3 patients (2%) were responsive. There was a significant difference in response according to age, body mass index (BMI), and the presence of co-existing diseases among study groups. Phosphate level was directly associated with the presence of resistance. ERI was positively correlated with dialysis frequency, ESA dose, serum iron, and transferrin saturation. Conclusion: According to the findings of this study, many factors can influence response levels in patients with CKD undergoing hemodialysis based on ERI (age, BMI, presence of co-existing diseases, serum phosphorus, serum iron, and transferrin saturation).

Phosphorus Content of Several Plant-Based Yogurts

ObjectiveIn people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), hyperphosphatemia is an independent risk factor for mortality in observational studies. Despite not having proven benefit, dietary control of phosphorus is thought to be essential in CKD. Though dietary and serum phosphorus are correlated, ingested phosphate is less bioavailable from plant-foods rich in phytate than from animal and processed foods. Yogurt is considered a useful food due to its relatively low phosphorus and high protein content but may be detrimental since the protein content is from animal sources. Instead, plant-based yogurts (PBYs) may offer similar benefits without the associated downsides of animal protein in kidney disease, but little is known about the phosphorus contents of PBYs. Design and MethodsProtein contents and phosphorus additives were obtained from nutrition labels of several, widely available PBYs of almond, cashew, oat, coconut, and soy substrates. Phosphorus content was measured via emission spectrometry by Eurofins (Madison, WI). Based on these data, phosphorus-to-protein ratio (PPR) for each PBY was calculated. ResultsPhosphorus was highest in Silk Soy Strawberry, then Silk Almond Strawberry and Siggi’s Coconut Mixed Berries. Phosphorus was lowest in So Delicious Coconut Strawberry, then Oatly Oat Strawberry, Forager Cashew Strawberry, and Kite Hill Almond Strawberry. According to the ingredient labels, Silk Soy Strawberry, Silk Almond Strawberry, and Oatly Oat Strawberry contained phosphorus additives while Siggi’s Coconut Mixed Berries contained pea protein additives. Of PBYs from the same substrate class, So Delicious Coconut Strawberry and Siggi’s Coconut Mixed Berries had the largest differences in their phosphorus and protein contents. These seven samples’ PPR ratios were higher than that of dairy yogurt values reported from the literature, including Stonyfield Organic Oikos Strawberry, Chobani Nonfat Strawberry, and Yoplait Greek Strawberry. ConclusionLow phosphorus-to-protein ratio (PPR) foods are emphasized for people with CKD. Siggi’s Coconut Mixed Berries had the lowest PPR. However, So Delicious Coconut Strawberry had the highest ratio which underscores product variability despite both using the same PBY substrate. Of the samples analyzed, Siggi’s Coconut Mixed Berries may be the most desirable for patients with CKD because its PPR was the lowest.

EFFECTS OF VARIOUS FAT SOURCES ADDED INTO THE DIETS OF LAYING HENS ON CALCIUM AND PHOSPHORUS METABOLISM

This research was conducted to determine the effects of different vegetable oils and animal fat added into laying hens' rations at different levels during the late laying period on serum calcium and phosphorus levels. A total of 54 sixty-seven weeks old Isa Brown hens were weighed and randomly distributed into nine dietary treatment groups as C (control fed with only basal diet), T2 (basal diet + 2% tallow), M2 basal diet + 2% tallow and linseed oil mixture (50/50), S2 (basal diet + 2% sunflower oil), L2 (basal diet + 2% linseed oil), T4 (basal diet + 4% tallow), M4 basal diet + 4% tallow and linseed oil mixture (50/50), S4 (basal diet + 4% sunflower oil) and L4 (basal diet + 4% linseed oil), respectively. Each treatment group consisted of 6 subgroups, comprising of 1 bird each. At the end of the study, serum calcium and phosphorus levels (mg/dl) of C T2, M2, S2, L2, T4, M4, S4, L4 groups were 18.63 and 5.85, 18.03 and 4.52, 18.60 and 5.00, 16.62 and 4.42, 17.55 and 4.33, 16.25 and 5.63, 17.48 and 3.95, 17.47 and 3.28, and 21.43 and 5.12, respectively. The highest calcium level was observed in L4 group (21.43 mg/dl), while the highest phosphorus level (5.85 mg/dl) was detected in the control (C) group. As a result of the research, no significant effect (p&gt;0.05) was found in terms of different fat sources and levels among the groups during the late laying period on the serum calcium and phosphorus levels of laying hens.

Fibrous Dysplasia Involving Cranio-Facial Region Treated with Zolendronic Acid: A Single Institutional Experience and Review of Literature.

Fibrous dysplasia (FD), commonly known as Lichtenstein-Jaffe disease, is a benign fibro-osseous bone disease. Clinical symptoms often include bone pain, deformities, pathological fractures, or nerve compression. Fibrous dysplasia (FD) in the cranio-facial region presents major management concerns because to the risk of deformity, loss of function, and recurrence. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate a single institution's experience managing cranio-facial FD with zolendronic acid, as well as an extensive review of the available literature on the subject. This retrospective study was conducted in the Orthopedic Oncology unit of the Department of Surgical Oncology with a study duration between January 1, 2019, and January 1, 2022. There were seven patients with cranio-facial fibrous dysplasia in the current study. The effects of zolendronic acid were evaluated using clinical assessment, data, radiological findings, biochemical indicators. Furthermore, a comprehensive literature review was conducted in order to compile the current data of cranio-facial FD. The study included seven individuals (five men and two females), four with polyostotic FD and three with cranio-facial FD. The average follow-up duration was 18.75months. The study found that all parameters improved: the mean VAS score increased from 7 to 1, mean serum calcium levels increased from 8.75 to 8.46mg/dL, mean serum phosphorus levels increased from 4.46 to 4.17mg/dL, and serum alkaline phosphatase levels increased from 152 to 93.25IU/L.A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar with the following keywords: "Fibrous dysplasia," "Cranio-facial bones," "Bisphosphonate," and "Zolendronic acid." The search included 24 studies published between 2000 and 2022, incorporating all relevant studies available to date. Our study demonstrated the effectiveness of zolendronic acid in the treatment of cranio-facial fibrous dysplasia. Zolendronic acid offers potential as a feasible treatment options in treating cranio-facial FD, with possible advantages including alleviating symptoms, disease progression stabilisation, and morbidity reduction. However, multi-centre prospective randomised study with larger sample numbers and longer follow-up periods are needed in future.

Phosphorus Knowledge and Dietary Intake of Phosphorus of US Adults Undergoing Dialysis.

Abnormal serum phosphorus is a concern for adults undergoing dialysis due to the risk for mortality and morbidity. General recommendations for maintaining serum phosphorus within normal limits is monitoring dietary intake of phosphorus and taking phosphate binders, as prescribed. However, limited research is available about adults' phosphorus knowledge and dietary intake of phosphorus. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to determine the association between phosphorus knowledge and dietary intake of phosphorus of adults on dialysis. An online Qualtrics survey was conducted during February-September 2023. Participants (n = 107) responded to the 74-item questionnaire (30-day food frequency questionnaire, phosphorus knowledge questionnaire, and demographic questions). Analysis included frequencies, descriptive statistics, t-tests, and Spearman correlations. JMP SAS v16 was used with a statistical significance of p < 0.05. Of the participants, 57.0% (n = 61) were on peritoneal dialysis and 43.0% (n = 46) were on hemodialysis. Average phosphorus knowledge score was 10.6 ± 3.0 out of 19 or 55.8%, with those on peritoneal dialysis having lower scores (54.7%) compared to participants on hemodialysis (58.1%) (p < 0.05). The daily average dietary phosphorus intake was 605 ± 297 mg. Participants on peritoneal dialysis consumed more phosphorus (625 mg) compared to participants on hemodialysis (576 mg) (p < 0.05). There was no association with phosphorus knowledge scores and dietary intake of phosphorus. There were positive correlations between discussing about phosphorus, knowing serum phosphorus concentration, and phosphorus knowledge scores. These results can aid practitioners in providing tailored nutrition education among adults on dialysis.

PTH like substance secreting mesenchymal tumor causing oncogenic osteomalacia; unravelling the difficulties in localization – A report of 2 cases

BackgroundOncogenic osteomalacia is a rare paraneoplastic association of Phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor (PMT) secreting excessive levels of a PTH like substance. They usually remain undiagnosed and patients suffer for years. The rarity of this tumor and its non-specific clinical presentations poses great challenge to the treating surgeons. Its management is poorly described in literature. We report two of such rare cases without much diagnostic delay. Case reportWe had 2 cases; A 53-year-old south east Asian male with 6 months of debilitating pain over multiple sites, and another 44-year-old male patient with complaints of low back ache, and pain over both lower and upper limbs for 1.5 years. Both had low serum phosphorus and elevated FGF-23 values, but all other parameters were normal. A PMT was suspected and confirmed on a Ga68- DOTATOC scan in both cases, and on complete excision, their symptoms and the altered blood parameters got normalized. Histology was consistent with PMT. ConclusionAccurate and timely diagnosis of a PMT with non-specific features are extremely challenging, but not without solutions. Even though a tumor of rarity, with the appropriate imaging modalities like Ga68- DOTATOC scan, and estimation of FGF-23 and serum phosphorus levels, they can be diagnosed. Once identified, complete removal is often curative within a few months.

Long-Term Follow-Up Data of Tumor-Induced Osteomalacia Managed with Surgery and/or Radiofrequency Ablation from a Single Center.

Data on radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) are restricted to case reports (~ 11 patients) and long-term follow-up data are further scarce. We describe our experience on managing TIO from a tertiary care center in India. Retrospective study of patients with localized TIO was performed and clinical, biochemical, treatment and follow-up details were retrieved. Normalization of serum phosphorus in absence of phosphate supplementation was defined as remission. Of 33 patients (23 males), 24 patients underwent surgery as first-line treatment, and early remission, delayed remission (> 1month for phosphorus normalization) and persistence were observed 12, 3, and 9 patients at a median follow-up of 5 (4-9) years. The gender, age, tumor size, location of tumors and FGF23 levels were not statistically different in patients who were in remission after surgery versus those with persistent disease. Second/third line treatment included conventional medical treatment and/or repeat surgery (n = 3), radiotherapy (n = 3), peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (n = 1), RFA (n = 1). Two patients had transient worsening (weeks) of weakness post-surgery. 10 patients underwent RFA (first-line n = 9); at the last follow-up 5 (4-10) years, 7 are in remission. Two of three persistent disease patients had large tumors (5.6 and 3.6cm). There were no RFA-related complications except local ulcer in one. Although persistent disease was present in a few patients in both arms, there was no recurrence in either RFA or surgical cohort. RFA provide durable response similar to surgery, persistence requires multi-modality treatment.

Changes in body composition, adipokines, ghrelin, and FGF23 in growth hormone-deficient children during rhGH therapy.

Beyond growth acceleration, growth hormone (GH) therapy improves body composition of GH-deficient (GHD) children due to the interaction of GH with lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, possibly mediated by adipokines secreted by adipose tissue and ghrelin. To promote linear growth, it is essential to have normal phosphate homeostasis. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is a known regulator of serum phosphorus and may be responsible for the increased renal phosphorus reabsorption observed during GH therapy. This study aimed to assess the impact of one-year GH therapy on body composition, adipokines, acylated/unacylated ghrelin (AG/UAG), and FGF23 in GHD children. A prospective observational study of 42 prepubertal, non-obese GHD children followed up in the first year of GH replacement therapy, investigating changes in adipokine profiles, AG/UAG, FGF23, and body composition. Data before therapy onset were compared with measurements obtained after 6 and 12 months of GH therapy. All children with a mean age of 9.2 ± 2.6 years grew at an accelerated pace. Total body fat decreased significantly, while the lipid profile improved, and total bone mineral density (BMD) significantly increased over the 12 months of treatment. Leptin and UAG levels decreased significantly, whereas adiponectin and AG values increased. A significant increase in plasma FGF23 and insulin growth factor 1 (IGF1) was accompanied by increased serum phosphate. Changes in FGF23 concentration did not have an impact on BMD. The strong association of FGF23 with IGF1 and height standard deviation (SD) could reveal a role of FGF23 in linear growth. In regression analysis models, GH therapy influences the changes of leptin and adiponectin, but not ghrelin, independently of body composition - lean or fat mass. GH replacement therapy improves body composition and adipokine profile in GHD children and directly impacts leptin and adiponectin concentrations independently of body composition. Also, GHD children have increased serum phosphate, correlated with upregulation rather than with suppression of FGF23, an unexpected observation given the phosphaturic role of FGF23. Further research is needed to identify the molecular mechanisms by which the GH/IGF1 axis influences adipokines secretion and plasma changes of FGF23.

The Safety Evaluation of Novel Bio-based Calcium D-pantothenate Obtained from Recombinant Escherichia coli K12 on Growth Performance and Health Status of Broiler Chickens

The production of traditional synthesized calcium D-pantothenate (D-PA) is accompanied with chemical pollution, therefore, the eco-friendly bio-fermentation technology has received widespread attention. In order to verify the safety of a novel D-PA product produced by genetically engineered bacteria (Escherichia coli K12), the authors of the current study investigated the influence of adding D-PA to the diet on growth performance and health status of broiler chickens. A total of 192 day-old healthy Arbor Acres broiler chickens with similar weight (43.21 ± 0.12 g) were randomly divided into 4 treatments with 6 replicates and 8 broiler chickens in each replicate (male and female in half). The Escherichia coli K12 was genetically engineered for the production of D-PA. The control group was fed with the basal diet containing 20 mg/kg synthesized D-PA (CT group). The treatments were supplemented with 20 (TCaP1 group, recommended dose group), 100 (TCaP5 group, 5-fold-dose group), and 200 (TCaP10 group, 10-fold-dose group) mg/kg bio-based D-PA product, respectively. The experiment lasted for 42 days and the growth performance and health status of broiler chickens were determined. The results indicated that the addition of 5- and 10-fold doses of bio-based D-PA could increase the average daily weight gain during 22-42 days of age and decrease the feed conversion rate during 22-42 and 1-42 days of age of broilers. There were some differences in white blood cell count, intermediate cell absolute value (MID) count, absolute granulocyte count, absolute lymphocyte count, granulocyte percentage, mean corpuscular volume, red blood cell distribution width-standard deviation, mean platelet volume and serum phosphorus and total bilirubin in different groups, compared with the CT group. Histological observations of the liver, spleen, pancreas, and small intestines showed that the tissue structures of various organs of the broiler chickens fed with the bio-based D-PA were clear, and no abnormal changes such as inflammatory cell infiltration and fibrous tissue hyperplasia were observed in all groups. In summary, dietary supplementation of bio-based D-PA was safe within the 10-fold- dose (200mg/kg) to broiler chickens during 1-42 days.

Onion (Allium cepa L.) Flavonoid Extract Ameliorates Osteoporosis in Rats Facilitating Osteoblast Proliferation and Differentiation in MG-63 Cells and Inhibiting RANKL-Induced Osteoclastogenesis in RAW 264.7 Cells.

Osteoporosis, a prevalent chronic health issue among the elderly, is a global bone metabolic disease. Flavonoids, natural active compounds widely present in vegetables, fruits, beans, and cereals, have been reported for their anti-osteoporotic properties. Onion is a commonly consumed vegetable rich in flavonoids with diverse pharmacological activities. In this study, the trabecular structure was enhanced and bone mineral density (BMD) exhibited a twofold increase following oral administration of onion flavonoid extract (OFE). The levels of estradiol (E2), calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P) in serum were significantly increased in ovariectomized (OVX) rats, with effects equal to alendronate sodium (ALN). Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) levels in rat serum were reduced by 35.7% and 36.9%, respectively, compared to the OVX group. In addition, the effects of OFE on bone health were assessed using human osteoblast-like cells MG-63 and osteoclast precursor RAW 264.7 cells in vitro as well. Proliferation and mineralization of MG-63 cells were promoted by OFE treatment, along with increased ALP activity and mRNA expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG)/receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL). Additionally, RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and osteoclast activity were inhibited by OFE treatment through decreased TRAP activity and down-regulation of mRNA expression-related enzymes in RAW 264.7 cells. Overall findings suggest that OFE holds promise as a natural functional component for alleviating osteoporosis.