Effects of Dapagliflozin in Patients with Membranous Nephropathy.

Introduction: Despite the provision of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system inhibitors and immunosuppressive therapies, membranous nephropathy often progresses to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). The objective of this prespecified analysis was to assess the safety and efficacy of dapagliflozin in patients with membranous nephropathy enrolled in the DAPA-CKD trial. Methods: Patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 25-75 mL/min/1.73 m2 and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) 200-5,000 mg/g were randomized to dapagliflozin 10 mg once daily or placebo, along with standard-of-care and followed for median 2.4 years. The primary endpoint was a composite of ≥50% sustained decline in eGFR, ESKD, or kidney or cardiovascular death. Exploratory efficacy endpoints included eGFR slope and UACR. Results: Among DAPA-CKD participants with membranous nephropathy, 19 were randomized to dapagliflozin and 24 to placebo. The mean (SD) age was 59.9 ± 12.1 years, the mean eGFR was 45.7 ± 12.1 mL/min/1.73 m2, and the median UACR was 1,694.5 (25%, 75% range 891-2,582.5) mg/g. Two of 19 (11%) patients randomized to dapagliflozin and five of 24 (21%) randomized to placebo experienced the primary composite endpoint. Total and chronic mean eGFR slopes for dapagliflozin and placebo were -3.87 and -4.29 and -2.66 and -4.22 mL/min/1.73 m2/year, respectively; corresponding between-group mean differences were 0.42 and 1.57 mL/min/1.73 m2/year. Dapagliflozin reduced geometric mean (SEM) UACR relative to placebo (-29.3% ± 1.2% vs. -3.6% ± 1.1%; between-group mean difference [95% CI] -26.7 [-50.4, 8.3]). Four (21%) patients randomized to dapagliflozin and seven (29%) randomized to placebo experienced a serious adverse event. Conclusion: In membranous nephropathy, the effects of dapagliflozin on kidney disease progression and albuminuria were generally favorable; there was insufficient power to justify formal inference testing.

The nasopharyngeal microbiome in South African children with lower respiratory tract infection: a nested case-control study of the Drakenstein Child Health Study.

Background: Lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) is a leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality globally. LRTI may be caused by viral or bacterial infections, individually or in combination. We investigated associations between LRTI and infant nasopharyngeal (NP) viruses and bacteria in a South African birth cohort. Methods: In a case-control study of infants enrolled in the Drakenstein Child Health Study (DCHS), LRTI cases were identified prospectively and age-matched with controls from the cohort. NP swabs were tested using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. We calculated adjusted Conditional Odds Ratios (aORs) for qPCR targets and used mixed effects models to identify differentially abundant taxa between LRTI cases and controls and explore viral-bacterial interactions. Results: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) [aOR: 5.69, 95% CI: 3.03-10.69], human rhinovirus (HRV) [1.47, 1.03-2.09], parainfluenza virus [3.46, 1.64-7.26], adenovirus [1.99, 1.08-3.68], enterovirus [2.32, 1.20-4.46], Haemophilus influenzae [1.72, 1.25-2.37], Klebsiella pneumoniae [2.66, 1.59-4.46], or high-density (> 6.9 log10 copies/mL) Streptococcus pneumoniae [1.53, 1.01-2.32] were associated with LRTI. Using 16S sequencing, LRTI was associated with increased relative abundance of Haemophilus (q = 0.0003) and decreased relative abundance of Dolosigranulum (q = 0.001), Corynebacterium (q = 0.091) and Neisseria (q = 0.004). In samples positive for RSV, Staphylococcus and Alloprevotella were present at lower relative abundance in cases than controls. In samples positive for parainfluenza virus or HRV, Haemophilus was present at higher relative abundance in cases. Conclusions: The associations between bacterial taxa and LRTI are strikingly similar to those identified in high-income countries, suggesting a conserved phenotype. RSV was the major virus associated with LRTI. H. influenzae appears to be the major bacterial driver of LRTI, acting synergistically with viruses. The Gram-positive bacteria Dolosigranulum and Corynebacteria may protect against LRTI, while Staphylococcus was associated with reduced risk of RSV-related LRTI. Funding: National Institutes of Health of the USA, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, National Research Foundation South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science South Africa, Australian National Health and Medical Research Council.

Portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry: a cost-effective method for analysing trace metals in deposited dust.

For projects requiring extensive environmental sampling and rapid decision-making to identify trace metal contamination using dust wipes, the cost and time required for wet chemistry analysis can be prohibitive. Under such circumstances there is a need for a suitable screening method that is cost-effective, efficient, and portable. To address this need, this study investigated the utility of portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) for the analysis of trace metals in dust wipes. Here, 316 dust wipe samples from three different geographical settings co-located with mining and smelting operations were investigated for their trace metal loadings (µg m-2) of arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) using pXRF. Results collected using pXRF were compared against inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) concentrations using matched dust wipes (n = 87) to assess reproducibility. A subset of dust wipes (n = 4) were subject to different pXRF analytical scenarios (ranging from 1 to 12 pXRF measurements) using a standardised test duration of 30 seconds to identify the most efficient number of tests for analytical precision. Conducting four pXRF tests on a single wipe (total exposure time of 120 seconds) returned comparable results to ICP-MS and was adopted for analysis of all samples. Results from dust wipes analysed with both ICP-MS and pXRF (n = 87) showed moderate to strong Spearman Rho correlations (rs = 0.489-0.956, p < 0.01) and linear regression coefficients of variation demonstrated good agreement between methods (R2 = 0.432-0.989, p < 0.05). Linear regression equations were used to correct pXRF data to the ICP-MS dust wipe data for samples analysed by both approaches, and applied to pXRF data that were not subject to ICP-MS analysis (n = 229). Application of the correction formula resulted in a substantial improvement of pXRF's accuracy and precision, confirming its effectiveness for assessing trace metals in dust wipes.

Sex and the Relationship Between Cardiometabolic Risk Factors and Estimated GFR Decline: A Population-Based Cohort Study.

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE: Females have a higher prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) than males, but are less likely to be treated with kidney replacement therapy (KRT). We studied the interaction between sex and the association of cardiometabolic risk factors for the decline in kidney function over time. STUDY DESIGN: A population-based cohort study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS: 1,127,731 adults living in Wales, UK, within the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage Databank. EXPOSURES: Sex and risk factors including age, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), cardiometabolic conditions, smoking, and socioeconomic deprivation. These risk factors were defined using primary care records. OUTCOMES: The yearly declines in eGFR and the risk of incident kidney failure defined as long-term KRT and/or sustained eGFR<15mL/min/1.73m2. ANALYTICAL APPROACH: Linear mixed effects models and Cox proportional hazards analysis. RESULTS: The average decline in eGFR age ≤73 was equal in males and females. After age 73, eGFR decline was faster in males than females, particularly for males with heart failure (males -1.22 mL/min/1.73m2 per year: 95% confidence interval (CI) -1.25 to -1.20 versus females -0.87mL/min/1.73m2: CI -0.89 to -0.85) and current smokers (males -1.58 mL/min/1.73m2 per year: CI -1.60 to -1.55 versus females -1.27 mL/min/1.73m2: CI -1.29 to -1.25). Socioeconomic deprivation was one of the most impactful risk factors on eGFR decline among females age >73, whereas cardiometabolic risk factors were more important among males. Older females at baseline were less likely to develop incident kidney failure than older males (p-value for age<0.001). LIMITATIONS: Study of people who were almost exclusively White and who had blood laboratory test data. Reliance on creatinine-based eGFR. Albuminuria and body mass index data were incomplete. CONCLUSIONS: eGFR decline was faster in males than in females especially in the setting of heart failure and smoking. Socioeconomic deprivation was an important risk factor associated with eGFR decline, particularly for females. While further work is required to explore less well-recognised risk factors these findings may inform clinical management strategies of CKD overall and within sex-specific groups.

Heart failure events in randomized controlled trials for adults receiving maintenance dialysis: a meta-epidemiologic study.

BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS: Heart failure is characterized as cardiac dysfunction resulting in elevated cardiac filling pressures with symptoms and signs of congestion. Distinguishing heart failure from other causes of similar presentations in patients with kidney failure is challenging but necessary, and is needed in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to accurately estimate treatment effects. The objective of this study was to review heart failure events, their diagnostic criteria and adjudication in RCTs of patients with kidney failure treated with dialysis. We hypothesized that heart failure events, diagnostic criteria and adjudication were infrequently reported in RCTs in dialysis. METHODS: We conducted a meta-epidemiologic systematic review of RCTs from high impact medical, nephrology and cardiology journals from 2000 to 2020. RCTs were eligible if they enrolled adults receiving maintenance dialysis for kidney failure and evaluated any intervention. Results. Of 561 RCTs in patients receiving dialysis, 36 (6.4%) reported heart failure events as primary (10, 27.8%) or secondary (31, 86.1%) outcomes. 10 of the 36 (27.8%) RCTs provided heart failure event diagnostic criteria and 5 of these 10 (50%) adjudicated heart failure events. These 10 RCTs included event diagnostic criteria for heart failure or heart failure hospitalizations, and their criteria included dyspnea (5/10), edema (2/10), rales/crackles (4/10), chest x-ray pulmonary edema or vascular redistribution (4/10), treatment in an acute setting (6/10) and ultrafiltration or dialysis (4/10). No study explicitly distinguished heart failure from volume overload secondary to non-adherence or underdialysis. CONCLUSION: Overall, we found that heart failure events are infrequently reported in RCTs in dialysis and are heterogeneously defined. Further research is required to develop standardized diagnostic criteria that are practical and meaningful to patients and clinicians.

Clinical practice guideline for the management of lipids in adults with diabetic kidney disease: abbreviated summary of the Joint Association of British Clinical Diabetologists and UK Kidney Association (ABCD-UKKA) Guideline 2024.

The contribution of chronic kidney disease (CKD) towards the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) is magnified with co-existing type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Lipids are a modifiable risk factor and good lipid management offers improved outcomes for people with diabetic kidney disease (DKD).The primary purpose of this guideline, written by the Association of British Clinical Diabetologists (ABCD) and UK Kidney Association (UKKA) working group, is to provide practical recommendations on lipid management for members of the multidisciplinary team involved in the care of adults with DKD.

House Sparrows as Sentinels of Childhood Lead Exposure.

Our understanding of connections between human and animal health has advanced substantially since the canary was introduced as a sentinel of toxic conditions in coal mines. Nonetheless, the development of wildlife sentinels for monitoring human exposure to toxins has been limited. Here, we capitalized on a three-decade long child blood lead monitoring program to demonstrate that the globally ubiquitous and human commensal house sparrow (Passer domesticus) can be used as a sentinel of human health risks in urban environments impacted by lead mining. We showed that sparrows are a viable proxy for the measurement of blood lead levels in children at a neighborhood scale (0.28 km2). In support of the generalizability of this approach, the blood lead relationship established in our focal mining city enabled us to accurately predict elevated blood lead levels in children from another mining city using only sparrows from the second location. Using lead concentrations and lead isotopic compositions from environmental and biological matrices, we identified shared sources and pathways of lead exposure in sparrows and children, with strong links to contamination from local mining emissions. Our findings showed how human commensal species can be used to identify and predict human health risks over time and space.

Empagliflozin to prevent progressive adverse remodelling after myocardial infarction (EMPRESS-MI): rationale and design.

AIMS: Patients with a reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) following an acute myocardial infarction (MI) are at risk of progressive adverse cardiac remodelling that can lead to the development of heart failure and death. The early addition of a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor to standard treatment may delay or prevent progressive adverse remodelling in these patients. METHODS AND RESULTS: EMpagliflozin to PREvent worSening of left ventricular volumes and Systolic function after Myocardial Infarction (EMPRESS-MI) is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-centre trial designed to assess the effect of empagliflozin on cardiac remodelling evaluated using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) in 100 patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction following MI. Eligible patients were those ≥12 h and ≤14 days following acute MI, with an LVEF <45% by CMR. Patients were randomized to empagliflozin 10 mg once a day or matching placebo. The primary outcome will be change in left ventricular end-systolic volume indexed to body surface area over 24 weeks from randomization. Secondary endpoints include measures of left ventricular and atrial volumes, left ventricular mass, LVEF, and circulating cardiac biomarkers. CONCLUSIONS: EMPRESS-MI will assess the effect of the SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin on cardiac remodelling in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction after an acute MI.

Blood lead increases and haemoglobin decreases in urban birds along a soil contamination gradient in a mining city.

Lead contaminated soil is a persistent global threat to the health of animal populations. Nevertheless, links between soil lead and its adverse effects on exposed wildlife remain poorly understood. Here, we explore local geographic patterns of exposure in urban birds along a gradient of lead contamination in Broken Hill, an Australian mining city. Soil lead concentrations are linked to co-located blood lead measurements in rock pigeons (Columba livia), house sparrows (Passer domesticus), crested pigeons (Ocyphaps lophotes) and white-plumed honeyeaters (Lichenostomus ornatus). Median blood lead levels were highest in crested pigeons (59.6 µg/dL), followed by house sparrows (35.2 µg/dL), rock pigeons (35.1 µg/dL), and white-plumed honeyeaters (27.4 µg/dL). Blood lead levels in all species declined away from mining areas, the primary source of lead contamination in Broken Hill. Blood lead increased significantly and at the greatest rate relative to soil lead in the three ground foraging species (crested pigeons, house sparrows, rock pigeons). For these species, soil lead concentrations below 200 mg/kg and 900 mg/kg were needed to maintain a median blood lead concentration under the lower threshold of the subtoxic (20-50 µg/dL) and toxic (≥50 µg/dL) effect ranges previously identified for some bird species. We also investigated the effects of lead exposure on blood haemoglobin levels as a general measure of physiological condition in birds exposed to different levels of soil lead contamination. Overall, for every 1 µg/dL increase in blood lead, haemoglobin decreased by 0.11 g/L. The rate of this decrease was not significantly different between species, which supports the measurement of haemoglobin as a consistent though insensitive measure of physiological condition in chronically lead exposed birds. Our findings reflect the importance of lead contaminated soil as a widespread source of elevated blood lead and supressed haemoglobin levels in birds inhabiting urbanised and mining impacted environments.

Measuring congestion with a non-invasive monitoring device in heart failure and haemodialysis: CONGEST-HF.

AIMS: We examined the effectiveness of a novel cardiopulmonary management wearable sensor (worn for less than 5 mins) at measuring congestion and correlated the device findings with established clinical measures of congestion. METHODS AND RESULTS: We enrolled three cohorts of patients: (1) patients with heart failure (HF) receiving intravenous diuretics in hospital; (2) patients established on haemodialysis, and (3) HF patients undergoing right heart catheterization (RHC). The primary outcomes in the respective cohorts were a Spearman correlation between (1) change in weight and change in thoracic impedance (TI) (from enrolment, 24 h after admission to discharge) in patients hospitalized for HF; (2) lung ultrasound B-lines and volume removed during dialysis with device measured TI, and (3) pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) and sub-acoustic diastolic, third heart sound (S3) in the patients undergoing RHC. A total of 66 patients were enrolled. In HF patients (n = 25), change in weight was correlated with both change in device TI (Spearman correlation [rsp] = -0.64, p = 0.002) and change in device S3 (rsp = -0.53, p = 0.014). In the haemodialysis cohort (n = 21), B-lines and TI were strongly correlated before (rsp = -0.71, p < 0.001) and after (rsp = -0.77, p < 0.001) dialysis. Volume of fluid removed by dialysis was correlated with change in device TI (rsp = 0.49, p = 0.024). In the RHC cohort (n = 20), PCWP measured at one time point and device S3 were not significantly correlated (rsp = 0.230, p = 0.204). There were no device-related adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: A non-invasive device was able to detect changes in congestion in patients with HF receiving decongestion therapy and patients having fluid removed at haemodialysis. The cardiopulmonary management device, which measures multiple parameters, is a potentially useful tool to monitor patients with HF to prevent hospitalizations.

Arteriovenous fistula for haemodialysis as a predictor of de novo heart failure in kidney transplant recipients.

Background: The haemodynamic effects of a functioning haemodialysis arteriovenous fistula (AVF) can cause or exacerbate heart failure (HF). We investigated whether the presence of an AVF at the time of kidney transplant (KT) is associated with de novo HF. Methods: This was an observational cohort study including adult patients who received a KT in the West of Scotland between 2010 and 2020. We evaluated the risk and associations of pretransplant factors with de novo HF, alone and as a composite cardiovascular (CV) outcome (including non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, de novo HF and CV death). Multivariable proportional hazards regression and sensitivity analyses were used to identify independent correlates of the outcomes. Results: Among 1330 included patients, the incident rate of de novo HF after transplantation was 58/1000 person-years [95% confidence interval (CI) 50-67] in AVF patients (n = 716) compared with 33/1000 person-years (95% CI 27-41) in non-AVF patients (n = 614). De novo HF was associated with the presence of an AVF [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 2.14 (95% CI 1.40-3.26)], duration of dialysis [aHR 1.03/year increase (95% CI 1.01-1.04)], age at transplant [aHR 1.03/year increase (95% CI 1.02-1.05)], female sex [aHR 1.93 (95% CI 1.40-2.65)] and pretransplant diabetes [aHR 2.43 (95% CI 1.48-4.01)]. The presence of an AVF was also associated with the composite CV outcome [aHR 1.91 (95% CI 1.31-2.78)]. Conclusions: The presence of an AVF may be an underrecognized modifiable predictor of de novo HF posttransplantation.

Balcinrenone plus dapagliflozin in patients with heart failure and chronic kidney disease: Results from the phase 2b MIRACLE trial.

AIMS: Many patients with heart failure (HF) have chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may not tolerate mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists. We investigated the efficacy and safety of the novel mineralocorticoid receptor modulator balcinrenone in combination with dapagliflozin in a phase 2b study. METHODS AND RESULTS: From January 2021 to October 2023, we randomized 133 adults with symptomatic HF, ejection fraction <60%, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥30 to ≤60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥30 to <3000 mg/g, to receive balcinrenone 15, 50 or 150 mg/day plus dapagliflozin 10 mg/day, or dapagliflozin 10 mg/day plus placebo, for 12 weeks. Enrolment was stopped early because of slow recruitment. Relative reductions in UACR from baseline to week 12 (primary endpoint) were not significantly different between the balcinrenone plus dapagliflozin groups versus dapagliflozin plus placebo. There was no clear balcinrenone dose-response relationship. There were possible dose-dependent increases in serum potassium levels, reduced eGFR in the highest dose group, and non-significant trends towards reduced N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels. Hyperkalaemia adverse events led to discontinuation in two participants receiving balcinrenone plus dapagliflozin and none in those receiving dapagliflozin plus placebo. CONCLUSION: While the smaller than planned sample size limits interpretation, we did not see significant reduction in UACR in patients treated with balcinrenone plus dapagliflozin compared with dapagliflozin plus placebo.

Cardiovascular Eligibility Criteria and Adverse Event Reporting in Combined Immune Checkpoint and VEGF Inhibitor Trials.

Background: Combination therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors (VEGFIs) has improved cancer outcomes and is increasingly used. These drug classes are associated with cardiovascular toxicities when used alone, but heterogeneity in trial design and reporting may limit knowledge of toxicities in patients receiving these in combination. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess consistency and clarity in definitions and reporting of cardiovascular eligibility criteria, baseline characteristics, and cardiovascular adverse events in ICI and VEGFI combination trials. Methods: A scoping review was conducted of phase 2 to 4 randomized controlled trials of ICI and VEGFI combination therapy for solid tumors. Trial cardiovascular eligibility criteria and baseline cardiovascular characteristic reporting in trial publications was assessed, and cardiovascular adverse event definitions and reporting criteria were also examined. Results: Seventeen trials (N = 10,313; published 2018-2022) were included. There were multiple cardiovascular exclusion criteria in 15 trials. No primary trial publication reported baseline cardiovascular characteristics. Thirteen trials excluded patients with prior heart failure, myocardial infarction, hypertension, or stroke. There was heterogeneity in defining cardiovascular conditions. "Grade 1 to 4" cardiovascular adverse events were reported when incidence was ≥5% to 25% in 15 trials. Incident hypertension was recorded in all trials, but other cardiovascular events were not consistently reported. No trial specifically noted the absence of cardiovascular events. Conclusions: In ICI and VEGFI combination trials, there is heterogeneity in cardiovascular exclusion criteria, reporting of baseline characteristics, and reporting of cardiovascular adverse events. This limits an optimal understanding of the incidence and severity of events relating to these combinations. Better standardization of these elements should be pursued. (Exclusions and Representation of Patients With Kidney Disease and Cardiovascular Disease in Drug Trials of the Novel Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapies VEGF-Signalling Pathway Inhibitors Alone or in Combination With Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors; CRD42022337942).

Sex disparities in mortality and cardiovascular outcomes in chronic kidney disease.

Sex (biologically determined) and gender (socially constructed) modulate manifestations and prognosis of a vast number of diseases, including cardiovascular disease (CVD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). CVD remains the leading cause of death in CKD patients. Population-based studies indicate that women present a higher prevalence of CKD and experience less CVD than men in all CKD stages, although this is not as clear in patients on dialysis or transplantation. When compared to the general population of the same sex, CKD has a more negative impact on women on kidney replacement therapy. European women on dialysis or recipients of kidney transplants have life expectancy up to 44.8 and 19.8 years lower, respectively, than their counterparts of similar age in the general population. For men, these figures stand at 37.1 and 16.5 years, representing a 21% to 20% difference, respectively. Hormonal, genetic, societal, and cultural influences may contribute to these sex-based disparities. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of these differences and their implications for patient care, well-designed clinical trials that involve a larger representation of women and focus on sex-related variables are urgently needed. This narrative review emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the epidemiology and prognosis of sex disparities in CVD among CKD patients. Such insights can guide research into the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, leading to optimized treatment strategies and ultimately, improved clinical outcomes.

Non-adherence to cardiometabolic medication as assessed by LC-MS/MS in urine and its association with kidney and cardiovascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: Non-adherence to medication is a frequent barrier in the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, potentially limiting the effectiveness of evidence-based treatments. Previous studies have mostly relied on indirect adherence measures to analyse outcomes based on adherence. The aim of this study was to use LC-MS/MS in urine-a non-invasive, direct and objective measure-to assess non-adherence to cardiometabolic drugs and analyse its association with kidney and cardiovascular outcomes. METHODS: This cohort study includes 1125 participants from the PROVALID study, which follows patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus at the primary care level. Baseline urine samples were tested for 79 cardiometabolic drugs and metabolites thereof via LC-MS/MS. An individual was classified as totally adherent if markers for all drugs were detected, partially non-adherent when at least one marker for one drug was detected, and totally non-adherent if no markers for any drugs were detected. Non-adherence was then analysed in the context of cardiovascular (composite of myocardial infarction, stroke and cardiovascular death) and kidney (composite of sustained 40% decline in eGFR, sustained progression of albuminuria, kidney replacement therapy and death from kidney failure) outcomes. RESULTS: Of the participants, 56.3% were totally adherent, 42.0% were partially non-adherent, and 1.7% were totally non-adherent to screened cardiometabolic drugs. Adherence was highest to antiplatelet and glucose-lowering agents and lowest to lipid-lowering agents. Over a median (IQR) follow-up time of 5.10 (4.12-6.12) years, worse cardiovascular outcomes were observed with non-adherence to antiplatelet drugs (HR 10.13 [95% CI 3.06, 33.56]) and worse kidney outcomes were observed with non-adherence to antihypertensive drugs (HR 1.98 [95% CI 1.37, 2.86]). CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: This analysis shows that non-adherence to cardiometabolic drug regimens is common in type 2 diabetes mellitus and negatively affects kidney and cardiovascular outcomes.

Cystatin C- and Creatinine-based Estimated GFR Differences: Prevalence and Predictors in the UK Biobank.

Rationale & Objective: Large differences between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) based on cystatin C (eGFRcys) and creatinine (eGFRcr) occur commonly. A comprehensive evaluation of factors that contribute to these differences is needed to guide the interpretation of discrepant eGFR values. Study Design: Cohort study. Setting & Participants: 468,969 participants in the UK Biobank. Exposures: Candidate sociodemographic, lifestyle factors, comorbidities, medication usage, and physical and laboratory predictors. Outcomes: eGFRdiff, defined as eGFRcys minus eGFRcr, categorized into 3 levels: lower eGFRcys (eGFRdiff, less than -15 mL/min/1.73 m2), concordant eGFRcys and eGFRcr (eGFRdiff, -15 to < 15 mL/min/1.73 m2), and lower eGFRcr (eGFRdiff, ≥15 mL/min/1.73 m2). Analytical Approach: Multinomial logistic regression models were constructed to identify predictors of lower eGFRcys or lower eGFRcr. We developed 2 prediction models comprising 375,175 participants: (1) a clinical model using clinically available variables and (2) an enriched model additionally including lifestyle variables. The models were internally validated in an additional 93,794 participants. Results: Mean ± standard deviation of eGFRcys was 88 ± 16 mL/min/1.73 m2, and eGFRcr was 95 ± 13 mL/min/1.73 m2; 25% and 5% of participants were in the lower eGFRcys and lower eGFRcr groups, respectively. In the multivariable enriched model, strong predictors of lower eGFRcys were older age, male sex, South Asian ethnicity, current smoker (vs never smoker), history of thyroid dysfunction, chronic inflammatory disease, steroid use, higher waist circumference and body fat, and urinary albumin-creatinine ratio >300 mg/g. Odds ratio estimates for these predictors were largely inverse of those in the lower eGFRcr group. The model's area under the curve was 0.75 in the validation set, with good calibration (1.00). Limitations: Limited generalizability. Conclusions: This study highlights the multitude of demographic, lifestyle, and health characteristics that are associated with large eGFRdiff. The clinical model may identify individuals who are likely to have discrepant eGFR values and thus should be prioritized for cystatin C testing.

Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) based on cystatin C and creatinine may differ substantially within an individual. Although most clinicians are aware that creatinine is influenced by muscle mass, there are additional numerous lifestyle and health characteristics that may affect serum concentrations of either biomarker. Our analyses of 468,969 individuals in the UK Biobank identified independent predictors of large differences between eGFR based on cystatin C and eGFR based on creatinine, which may inform the interpretation of discrepant eGFR values within an individual. We developed models that may be implemented at a population level to help health systems identify individuals who are likely to have large differences between eGFR based on cystatin C and eGFR based on creatinine and thus should be prioritized for cystatin C testing.

Iron biology.

Iron is a fundamental element for biological life, starting from bacteria till humans. Iron is essential for cell function and survival, energy production and metabolism, whereas increased levels cause oxidative stress. It is also a constituent of haemoglobin and thus it is necessary for oxygen transportation through the body. Given these multiple functions, the regulation of iron metabolism is complex and tight coupled with oxygen homeostasis at tissue and cellular levels, thanks to the interaction with the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) system. In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), iron deficiency significantly contributes to anaemia development. This frequently overlaps with chronic inflammation, causing iron- restricted erythropoiesis. To add further complexity, metabolic hyperferritinemia may, on one side, increase the risk for CKD and, on the other, overlaps with functional iron deficiency. Excessive intracellular iron in certain cell types during CKD can also mediate cellular death (called ferroptosis), and contribute to the pathogenesis of kidney damage, atherosclerosis and vascular calcifications. This review is aimed at broadening the perspective of iron metabolism in the setting of CKD not just as a contributor to anaemia in CKD patients, but also as an important player with an impact on cell metabolism, renal fibrosis, and the cardiovascular system.

Sex differences in cancer outcomes across the range of eGFR.

BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS: People with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have increased incidence and mortality from most cancer types. We hypothesised that odds of presenting with advanced cancer may vary according to differences in eGFR, that this could contribute to increased all-cause mortality and that sex differences may exist. METHODS: Data were from Secure Anonymised Information Linkage Databank, including people with de-novo cancer diagnosis (2011-2017) and two kidney function tests within two years prior to diagnosis to determine baseline eGFR (mL/min/1.73m2). Logistic regression models determined odds of presenting with advanced cancer by baseline eGFR. Cox proportional hazards models tested associations between baseline eGFRcr and all-cause mortality. RESULTS: eGFR < 30 was associated with higher odds of presenting with advanced cancer of prostate, breast and female genital organs, but not other cancer sites. Compared to eGFR > 75-90, eGFR < 30 was associated with greater hazards of all-cause mortality in both sexes, but the association was stronger in females (female: HR 1.71, 95%CI 1.56-1.88; male versus female comparison HR 0.88, 95%CI 0.78-0.90). CONCLUSIONS: Lower or higher eGFR was not associated with substantially higher odds of presenting with advanced cancer across most cancer sites, but was associated with reduced survival. A stronger assocation with all-cause mortality in females compared to males with eGFR < 30 is concerning and warrants further scrutiny.

Socioeconomic deprivation and illness trajectory in the Scottish population after COVID-19 hospitalization.

BACKGROUND: The associations between deprivation and illness trajectory after hospitalisation for coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) are uncertain. METHODS: A prospective, multicentre cohort study was conducted on post-COVID-19 patients, enrolled either in-hospital or shortly post-discharge. Two evaluations were carried out: an initial assessment and a follow-up at 28-60 days post-discharge. The study encompassed research blood tests, patient-reported outcome measures, and multisystem imaging (including chest computed tomography (CT) with pulmonary and coronary angiography, cardiovascular and renal magnetic resonance imaging). Primary and secondary outcomes were analysed in relation to socioeconomic status, using the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD). The EQ-5D-5L, Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ), Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4) for Anxiety and Depression, and the Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) were used to assess health status. RESULTS: Of the 252 enrolled patients (mean age 55.0 ± 12.0 years; 40% female; 23% with diabetes), deprivation status was linked with increased BMI and diabetes prevalence. 186 (74%) returned for the follow-up. Within this group, findings indicated associations between deprivation and lung abnormalities (p = 0.0085), coronary artery disease (p = 0.0128), and renal inflammation (p = 0.0421). Furthermore, patients with higher deprivation exhibited worse scores in health-related quality of life (EQ-5D-5L, p = 0.0084), illness perception (BIPQ, p = 0.0004), anxiety and depression levels (PHQ-4, p = 0.0038), and diminished physical activity (DASI, p = 0.002). At the 3-month mark, those with greater deprivation showed a higher frequency of referrals to secondary care due to ongoing COVID-19 symptoms (p = 0.0438). However, clinical outcomes were not influenced by deprivation. CONCLUSIONS: In a post-hospital COVID-19 population, socioeconomic deprivation was associated with impaired health status and secondary care episodes. Deprivation influences illness trajectory after COVID-19.

In our study, we aimed to understand how socioeconomic factors impact recovery from COVID-19 following hospitalisation. We followed 252 patients, collecting health data and utilising advanced imaging techniques. We discovered that individuals from deprived areas experienced more severe health complications, reported worse quality of life, and required more specialist care. However, their clinical outcomes were not significantly different. This underscores that socioeconomic deprivation affects health recovery, underlining the need for tailored care for these individuals. Our findings emphasise the importance of considering socioeconomic factors in recovery plans post-COVID-19, potentially improving healthcare for those in deprived areas.

Dapagliflozin and Blood Pressure in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Albuminuria.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors decrease blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes, but the consistency and magnitude of blood pressure lowering with dapagliflozin in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is unknown. We conducted a prespecified analysis of the DAPA-CKD trial to investigate the effect of dapagliflozin on systolic blood pressure (SBP) in patients with CKD, with and without type 2 diabetes. METHODS: A total of 4304 adults with baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 25-75 mL/min/1.73m2 and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) 200-5000 mg/g were randomized to either dapagliflozin 10 mg or placebo once daily; median follow-up was 2.4 years. The primary endpoint was a composite of sustained ≥50% eGFR decline, end-stage kidney disease, or death from a kidney or cardiovascular cause. Change in SBP was a prespecified outcome. RESULTS: Baseline mean (SD) SBP was 137.1 mmHg (17.4). By Week 2, dapagliflozin compared to placebo reduced SBP by 3.6 mmHg (95% CI 2.8-4.4 mmHg), an effect maintained over the duration of the trial (2.9 mmHg, 2.3-3.6 mmHg). Time-averaged reductions in SBP were 3.2 mmHg (2.5-4.0 mmHg) in patients with diabetes and 2.3 mmHg (1.2-3.4 mmHg) in patients without diabetes. The time-averaged effect of dapagliflozin on diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was 1.0 mmHg (0.6-1.4 mmHg); 0.8 mmHg (0.4-1.3 mmHg) in patients with diabetes and 1.4 mmHg (0.7-2.1 mmHg) in patients without diabetes. Benefits of dapagliflozin on the primary composite and secondary endpoints were evident across the spectrum of baseline SBP and DBP. CONCLUSION: In patients with CKD and albuminuria, randomization to dapagliflozin was associated with modest reductions in systolic and diastolic BP.