Longitudinal Dietary Intake Data in Patients with Phenylketonuria from Europe: The Impact of Age and Phenylketonuria Severity.

In phenylketonuria (PKU), natural protein intake is thought to increase with age, particularly during childhood and adolescence. Longitudinal dietary intake data are scarce and lifelong phenylalanine tolerance remains unknown. Nine centres managing PKU in Europe and Turkey participated in a retrospective study. Data were collected from dietetic records between 2012 and 2018 on phenylalanine (Phe), natural protein, and protein substitute intake. A total of 1323 patients (age range: 1-57 y; 51% male) participated. Dietary intake data were available on 1163 (88%) patients. Patient numbers ranged from 59 to 320 in each centre. A total of 625 (47%) had classical PKU (cPKU), n = 357 (27%) had mild PKU (mPKU), n = 325 (25%) had hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA), and n = 16 (1%) were unknown. The mean percentage of blood Phe levels within target ranged from 65 ± 54% to 88 ± 49%. When intake was expressed as g/day, the mean Phe/natural protein and protein equivalent from protein substitute gradually increased during childhood, reaching a peak in adolescence, and then remained consistent during adulthood. When intake was expressed per kg body weight (g/kg/day), there was a decline in Phe/natural protein, protein equivalent from protein substitute, and total protein with increasing age. Overall, the mean daily intake (kg/day) was as follows: Phe, 904 mg ± 761 (22 ± 23 mg/kg/day), natural protein 19 g ± 16 (0.5 g/kg/day ± 0.5), protein equivalent from protein substitute 39 g ± 22 (1.1 g/kg/day ± 0.6), and total protein 59 g ± 21 (1.7 g/kg/day ± 0.6). Natural protein tolerance was similar between males and females. Patients with mPKU tolerated around 50% less Phe/natural protein than HPA, but 50% more than cPKU. Higher intakes of natural protein were observed in Southern Europe, with a higher prevalence of HPA and mPKU compared with patients from Northern European centres. Natural protein intake doubled with sapropterin usage. In sapropterin-responsive patients, 31% no longer used protein substitutes. Close monitoring and optimisation of protein intake prescriptions are needed, along with future guidelines specifically for different age groups and severities.

Patient and carer perceptions of video, telephone and in-person clinics for Phenylketonuria (PKU).

BACKGROUND: In phenylketonuria (PKU), attending multidisciplinary clinic reviews is an important aspect of life-long care. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, video and telephone clinics are used as alternative methods for people with PKU to have contact with their care team. There is limited research concerning patient preference, experience and perceptions of alternative types of clinic review. Individuals from the UK with PKU and their caregivers were invited to complete an online questionnaire, hosted on the National Society for PKU (NSPKU) website and social media platform. RESULTS: Data was available from 203 respondents. Forty one per cent of respondents (n = 49/119) preferred in-person clinics; 41% (n = 49) a hybrid of in-person, video and telephone clinics; 9% (n = 11) video clinics only, 6% (n = 7) telephone only and 3% (n = 3) were unsure. The main respondent obstacles to in-person clinics were costs, travel and time, but this was balanced by the benefits of a physical examination and better patient engagement/motivation. Twenty one per cent (n = 36/169) of respondents were uncomfortable with the number of healthcare professionals (HCPs) in a clinic room. Patients were less likely to consult with a doctor on video (64%, n = 91/143) or phone (50%, n = 59/119) reviews compared to in-person (80%, n = 146/183). Issues with video and telephone reviews included the shorter time length of review, distractions, technical issues and poor patient engagement. CONCLUSIONS: Online video and telephone clinic platforms were effective in overcoming the challenging circumstances in management, monitoring and treatment of patients with PKU during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, in-person clinics remain the preferred respondent option. It is important that HCPs are flexible, enabling people with PKU a choice of clinic options according to their individual clinical need and circumstances.

Convenience and price drive online pharmacy usage by veterinary clients.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate factors that influence client selection of a veterinary pharmacy and assess client perception of the impact of online pharmacies on veterinary clinics. METHODS: Survey data and satisfaction metrics were compared between online pharmacies, a teaching hospital pharmacy (UW Veterinary Care), and primary care veterinary clinics between March and April 2023. Online pharmacy users were asked about perceived impact of online pharmacies on veterinary clinics. Personal values were correlated with the likelihood of using a pharmacy. RESULTS: 158 surveys were analyzed; 32.9% of respondents used an online pharmacy. Of those, 20% used a veterinary-affiliated online pharmacy. Convenience was the value most liked by online pharmacy and primary care clinic users. Online users reported liking price most, whereas veterinary clinic pharmacy users (UW Veterinary Care and primary care clinics) reported liking communication and trust. Online users ranked price as more important, whereas veterinary clinic users ranked personalized experience (caring, explanations, veterinary recommended) as more important. Regardless of pharmacy type, satisfaction scores were high. Most online users perceived a negative impact of online pharmacies on veterinary clinics; this did not change reported usage. CONCLUSIONS: Online and veterinary clinic users prioritized different values. Online users prioritized price and veterinary clinic users prioritized personalized experience. Online usage was not influenced by perceived impact. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: For veterinary clinics attempting to increase revenue, appealing to these 2 distinct driving values is essential. Offering practice-directed online pharmacies with competitive and transparent pricing could procure online consumers, while maintaining a personalized experience remains important for consumers purchasing prescriptions in-house.

Phenylalanine-Free Infant Formula in Patients with Phenylketonuria: A Retrospective Study.

The long-term efficacy and use of phenylalanine-free infant amino acid formula (PFIF) is understudied. This retrospective, longitudinal study evaluated PFIF (PKU Start: Vitaflo International) in children with phenylketonuria, collecting data on metabolic control, growth, dietary intake, and symptoms and the child's experience with PFIF. Twenty-five children (12 males, 48%) with a median age of 3.6 years (2.0-6.2 years) were included. During 24 months follow-up, children maintained normal growth and satisfactory metabolic control. The protein intake from protein substitutes increased from 2.7 at 6 months to 2.8 g/kg/day at 24 months, while natural protein decreased from 0.6 to 0.4 g/kg/day. By 24 months, most children (n = 16, 64%) had stopped PFIF, while nine (36%) continued with a median intake of 450 mL/day (Q1:300 mL, Q3: 560 mL). Children who continued PFIF after 24 months of age had higher energy and fat intakes with higher weight/BMI z-scores compared with those who stopped earlier (p < 0.05). Constipation was reported in 44% of infants but improved with age. Initial difficulty with PFIF acceptance was reported in 20% of infants but also improved with time. Prolonged use of PFIF in pre-school children may contribute to poor feeding patterns and overweight; thus, replacing the majority of the protein equivalent provided by PFIF with a weaning protein substitute by 12 months and discontinuing PFIF before 2 years is recommended.

A 12-month, longitudinal, intervention study examining a tablet protein substitute preparation in the management of tyrosinemia.

Protein substitutes (PS) without tyrosine (Tyr) and phenylalanine (Phe), are an essential source of synthetic protein in the treatment of tyrosinemia (HT). In the UK, the only available protein substitutes for HT are Tyr/ Phe free amino acid liquid or powders or formulations based on glycomacropeptide (CGMP). A tablet Tyr/ Phe free amino acid supplement (AAT) has now been introduced. The aim of this two-part prospective, longitudinal intervention study was to assess the efficacy, acceptability, and tolerance of AAT in children aged >8 years with HTI. Part 1: was a 28-day acceptability/ tolerance study, part 2, was a 12-month extension study examining efficacy of AAT. Anthropometry and blood Tyr/ Phe were assessed. All subjects were taking NTBC [2-(2-nitro-4-triflourothybenzoyl) cyclohexane-1, 3-dione] with a Tyr restricted diet. Eight subjects with HTI were recruited 4 boys, and 4 girls with a median age of 14.3y (range 10.4-17.3); 3 were Caucasian and 5 of Pakistani origin. The median (range) protein equivalent from PS was 60 g/d (50-60), natural protein 20 g/d (15-30), and NTBC 30 mg/d (25-80). No subjects were taking Phe supplements. Five (63%) subjects completed part 1, with 4 taking all their PS requirements as AAT. Subjects reported AAT were tasteless and had no odour. No adverse gastrointestinal symptoms were recorded, with two reporting improvements in abdominal discomfort. At 12 months, 4 subjects had a non-significant decrease in blood Tyr/ Phe compared to the 12 months pre-treatment. Median blood Tyr (µmol/ L) pre-intervention was 500 (320-590); and at 12 months, 450 (290-530). Median blood Phe (µmol/L) pre-intervention was 40 (30-40); and at 12 months 30 (30-50). Median height z scores remained unchanged, but there was a small decrease in weight z score (pre-study weight - 0.1 (-1.4 to1.1), 12 m - 0.3 (-1.4 to 1.3) and BMI (pre- study BMI 0.2 (-2 to 1.4), and 12 m, -0.1 (-2.5 to 1.5)). Conclusion: AAT were useful for some adolescents with HTI who struggled with the taste and volume of conventional powdered and liquid PS.

Blood Phenylalanine Levels in Patients with Phenylketonuria from Europe between 2012 and 2018: Is It a Changing Landscape?

BACKGROUND: In 2011, a European phenylketonuria (PKU) survey reported that the blood phenylalanine (Phe) levels were well controlled in early life but deteriorated with age. Other studies have shown similar results across the globe. Different target blood Phe levels have been used throughout the years, and, in 2017, the European PKU guidelines defined new targets for blood Phe levels. This study aimed to evaluate blood Phe control in patients with PKU across Europe. METHODS: nine centres managing PKU in Europe and Turkey participated. Data were collected retrospectively from medical and dietetic records between 2012 and 2018 on blood Phe levels, PKU severity, and medications. RESULTS: A total of 1323 patients (age range:1-57, 51% male) participated. Patient numbers ranged from 59 to 320 in each centre. The most common phenotype was classical PKU (n = 625, 48%), followed by mild PKU (n = 357, 27%) and hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) (n = 325, 25%). The mean percentage of blood Phe levels within the target range ranged from 65 ± 54% to 88 ± 49% for all centres. The percentage of Phe levels within the target range declined with increasing age (<2 years: 89%; 2-5 years: 84%; 6-12 years: 73%; 13-18 years: 85%; 19-30 years: 64%; 31-40 years: 59%; and ≥41 years: 40%). The mean blood Phe levels were significantly lower and the percentage within the target range was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in patients with HPA (290 ± 325 µmol/L; 96 ± 24%) and mild PKU (365 ± 224 µmol/L; 77 ± 36%) compared to classical PKU (458 ± 350 µmol/L, 54 ± 46%). There was no difference between males and females in the mean blood Phe levels (p = 0.939), but the percentage of Phe levels within the target range was higher in females among school-age children (6-12 years; 83% in females vs. 78% in males; p = 0.005), adolescents (13-18 years; 62% in females vs. 59% in males; p = 0.034) and adults (31-40 years; 65% in females vs. 41% in males; p < 0.001 and >41 years; 43% in females vs. 28% in males; p < 0.001). Patients treated with sapropterin (n = 222) had statistically significantly lower Phe levels compared to diet-only-treated patients (mean 391 ± 334 µmol/L; percentage within target 84 ± 39% vs. 406 ± 334 µmol/L; 73 ± 41%; p < 0.001), although a blood Phe mean difference of 15 µmol/L may not be clinically relevant. An increased frequency of blood Phe monitoring was associated with better metabolic control (p < 0.05). The mean blood Phe (% Phe levels within target) from blood Phe samples collected weekly was 271 ± 204 µmol/L, (81 ± 33%); for once every 2 weeks, it was 376 ± 262 µmol/L, (78 ± 42%); for once every 4 weeks, it was 426 ± 282 µmol/L, (71 ± 50%); and less than monthly samples, it was 534 ± 468 µmol/L, (70 ± 58%). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, blood Phe control deteriorated with age. A higher frequency of blood sampling was associated with better blood Phe control with less variability. The severity of PKU and the available treatments and resources may impact the blood Phe control achieved by each treatment centre.

Casein glycomacropeptide in phenylketonuria: does it bring clinical benefit?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Casein glycomacropeptide (CGMP) is a milk-derived bioactive sialyated phosphorylated peptide with distinctive nutritional and nutraceutical properties, produced during the cheese making process. It comprises 20-25% of total protein in whey products. CGMP is low in phenylalanine (Phe) and provides an alternative to Phe-free amino acids as a source of protein equivalent for patients with phenylketonuria (PKU). The amino acid sequence of CGMP is adapted by adding the amino acids histidine, leucine, tyrosine, arginine and tryptophan to enable its suitability in PKU. CGMP has potential antibacterial, antioxidative, prebiotic, remineralizing, digestion /metabolism and immune-modulating properties. The aim of this review is to assess the evidence for the role of CGMP in the management of PKU. RECENT FINDINGS: In PKU, there is no agreement concerning the amino acid composition of CGMP protein substitutes and consequently the nutritional composition varies between products. Although there is evidence in patients or animal models that CGMP has possible beneficial effects on gut microbiota and bone health, the results are inconclusive. Data on kinetic advantage is limited. Most studies report an increase in blood Phe levels with CGMP. Appropriate adaptations and reduction of dietary Phe intake should be made to compensate for the residual Phe content of CGMP, particularly in children. Data from short term studies indicate improved palatability of CGMP when compared to Phe-free amino acids. SUMMARY: In PKU, CGMP with supplementary amino acids, offers a safe low Phe nitrogen source. Current scientific evidence is unconvincing about its bioactive advantage in PKU. Further longitudinal research is necessary.

Natural Protein Intake in Children with Phenylketonuria: Prescription vs. Actual Intakes.

In phenylketonuria (PKU), an important component of the UK dietary management system is a 50 mg phenylalanine (Phe)/1 g protein exchange system used to allocate the Phe/natural protein intakes according to individual patient tolerance. Any foods containing protein ≤ 0.5 g/100 g or fruits/vegetables containing Phe ≤ 75 mg/100 g are allowed without measurement or limit. In children with PKU, we aimed to assess the difference between the prescribed natural protein intake and their actual consumed intake, and to calculate the natural protein/Phe intake from foods given without measurement or restriction. Over a 6-month duration, three one-day diet diaries were collected every month by caregivers of children with PKU at the beginning of a follow-up study. Dietary intakes of Phe, as well as natural and total protein intakes, were calculated using Nutritics® (v5.09). Weekly blood Phe spots were collected by caregivers. The target blood Phe level was ≤360 µmol/L for ages up to 12 years and ≤600 µmol/L for ages ≥12 years. Sixteen early treated children (69% females) with PKU were recruited. The median age was 11 years (range: 9-13), and most had classical PKU (n = 14/16). A median of 18 (range 12-18) one-day diaries and 22 blood spots were analysed for each subject over 6 months. The median prescribed natural protein was 6 g/day (range: 3-27), but when calculated, the actual median intake from all foods consumed was 10 g/day (range: 4-37). The median prescribed Phe was 300 mg/day (range: 150-1350), but the actual median intake was 500 mg/day (range: 200-1850). The median difference between the prescribed and actual natural protein daily intakes was +4 g/day (range: -2.5 to +11.5), with a median percentage increase of 40% for natural protein/Phe intake (p < 0.001). The median blood Phe level was 250 µmol/L (range 20-750), with 91% of blood Phe levels within the target range. Only one patient (11 years) had less than 75% of their blood Phe levels within the target range. The UK Phe exchange system provides flexibility in the dietary management of PKU. With this method, the actual natural protein intake was 167% higher than the prescribed amount. Although this led to a variable daily protein intake, the majority of children (n = 15/16) experienced no deterioration in their metabolic control.

Casein glycomacropeptide in phenylketonuria: does it bring clinical benefit?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Casein glycomacropeptide (CGMP) is a milk-derived bioactive sialyated phosphorylated peptide with distinctive nutritional and nutraceutical properties, produced during the cheese making process. It comprises 20-25% of total protein in whey products. CGMP is low in phenylalanine (Phe) and provides an alternative to Phe-free amino acids as a source of protein equivalent for patients with phenylketonuria (PKU). The amino acid sequence of CGMP is adapted by adding the amino acids histidine, leucine, tyrosine, arginine and tryptophan to enable its suitability in PKU. CGMP has potential antibacterial, antioxidative, prebiotic, remineralizing, digestion /metabolism and immune-modulating properties. The aim of this review is to assess the evidence for the role of CGMP in the management of PKU. RECENT FINDINGS: In PKU, there is no agreement concerning the amino acid composition of CGMP protein substitutes and consequently the nutritional composition varies between products. Although there is evidence in patients or animal models that CGMP has possible beneficial effects on gut microbiota and bone health, the results are inconclusive. Data on kinetic advantage is limited. Most studies report an increase in blood Phe levels with CGMP. Appropriate adaptations and reduction of dietary Phe intake should be made to compensate for the residual Phe content of CGMP, particularly in children. Data from short term studies indicate improved palatability of CGMP when compared to Phe-free amino acids. SUMMARY: In PKU, CGMP with supplementary amino acids, offers a safe low Phe nitrogen source. Current scientific evidence is unconvincing about its bioactive advantage in PKU. Further longitudinal research is necessary.

Phenylalanine Tolerance over Time in Phenylketonuria: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

In phenylketonuria (PKU), natural protein tolerance is defined as the maximum natural protein intake maintaining a blood phenylalanine (Phe) concentration within a target therapeutic range. Tolerance is affected by several factors, and it may differ throughout a person's lifespan. Data on lifelong Phe/natural protein tolerance are limited and mostly reported in studies with low subject numbers. This systematic review aimed to investigate how Phe/natural protein tolerance changes from birth to adulthood in well-controlled patients with PKU on a Phe-restricted diet. Five electronic databases were searched for articles published until July 2020. From a total of 1334 results, 37 articles met the eligibility criteria (n = 2464 patients), and 18 were included in the meta-analysis. The mean Phe (mg/day) and natural protein (g/day) intake gradually increased from birth until 6 y (at the age of 6 months, the mean Phe intake was 267 mg/day, and natural protein intake was 5.4 g/day; at the age of 5 y, the mean Phe intake was 377 mg/day, and the natural protein intake was 8.9 g/day). However, an increase in Phe/natural protein tolerance was more apparent at the beginning of late childhood and was >1.5-fold that of the Phe tolerance in early childhood. During the pubertal growth spurt, the mean natural protein/Phe tolerance was approximately three times higher than in the first year of life, reaching a mean Phe intake of 709 mg/day and a mean natural protein intake of 18 g/day. Post adolescence, a pooled analysis could only be performed for natural protein intake. The mean natural protein tolerance reached its highest (32.4 g/day) point at the age of 17 y and remained consistent (31.6 g/day) in adulthood, but limited data were available. The results of the meta-analysis showed that Phe/natural protein tolerance (expressed as mg or g per day) increases with age, particularly at the beginning of puberty, and reaches its highest level at the end of adolescence. This needs to be interpreted with caution as limited data were available in adult patients. There was also a high degree of heterogeneity between studies due to differences in sample size, the severity of PKU, and target therapeutic levels for blood Phe control.

Preliminary Data on Free Use of Fruits and Vegetables Containing Phenylalanine 76-100 mg/100 g of Food in 16 Children with Phenylketonuria: 6 Months Follow-Up.

In phenylketonuria (PKU), a previous intervention study assessing the patients ability to tolerate fruits and vegetables containing phenylalanine 76-100 mg/100 g without limit or measurement, found that an extra 50 mg/day phenylalanine, but not 100 mg/day, was tolerated from these fruits and vegetables. In a further 6-month extension study, we examined the effect of the 'free' use of this group of fruits and vegetables on blood phenylalanine control. For 6 months, the patients ate fruits and vegetables containing phenylalanine 76-100 mg/100 g without limit or measurement. Three-day diet diaries and the patients' weights were collected monthly. Blood phenylalanine spots were collected weekly aiming for blood phenylalanine levels <360 µmol/L. Retrospective blood phenylalanine was collected 6 months pre-trial. All 16 patients (69% females) from the intervention study took part in the extension study. Most of the patients (n = 14/16) had classical PKU with a median age of 10.5 years (range: 6-13). There was no statistically significant difference in the median blood phenylalanine pre-study (270, range: 50-760 µmol/L) compared to the 6-month extension study (250, range: 20-750 µmol/L) (p= 0.4867). The patients had a median of 21 and 22 bloodspots, pre- and post-trial, respectively. In the extension study, the patients had an actual mean intake of 11 g/day (4-37) natural protein and 65 g/day (60-80) protein equivalent from a protein substitute. The mean phenylalanine intake was 563 mg/day (200-1850) with only 19 mg/day (0-146) phenylalanine from fruits and vegetables containing phenylalanine 76-100 mg/100 g. The weight z-scores remained unchanged (1.52 vs. 1.60, p = 0.4715). There was no adverse impact on blood phenylalanine control when fruits and vegetables containing phenylalanine 76-100 mg/100 g were eaten without limit or measurement. However, the fruits and vegetable portion sizes eaten were small (60 g/week). Further longitudinal work is necessary to examine the 'free' use of fruits and vegetables containing phenylalanine 76-100 mg/100 g on metabolic control in patients with PKU.

Parent's Perception of the Types of Support Given to Families with an Infant with Phenylketonuria.

BACKGROUND: A diagnosis of phenylketonuria (PKU) in an infant is a devastating and overwhelming event for their parents. Providing appropriate information and support is paramount, especially at the beginning of a child's life. Investigating if parents are receiving the right support is important for continued care. METHODOLOGY: An online survey was distributed to explore parents' perceptions of current support and information provided by their healthcare provider and to rate sources of other support (n = 169 participants). RESULTS: Dietitians received the highest (85%) rate of "very helpful" support. Overall, parents found Facebook to be helpful for support but had mixed reactions when asked if healthcare professionals (HCPs) should provide advice as part of the groups. When rating the most effective learning methods, the top three were 1:1 teaching sessions (n = 109, 70%), picture books (n = 73, 50%), and written handouts (n = 70, 46%). CONCLUSION: Most parents are happy with the support and information they receive from their dietitian but required more support from other HCPs. Facebook groups provide parents with the social support that HCPs and their family may be unable to offer, suggesting a place for social media in future PKU care.

Factors Associated with Readmission within 30 Days after Discharge and In-Hospital Mortality after Proximal Femoral Fracture Surgery in the Elderly: Retrospective Cohort.

Objective To evaluate the factors associated with readmission within 30 days after discharge (R30) and in-hospital mortality (IHM) in elderly patients undergoing proximal femur fracture surgery (PFF). Methods Retrospective cohort with data from 896 medical records of elderly (≥ 60 years) patients submitted to PFF surgery in a Brazilian hospital between November 2014 and December, 2019. The patients included were followed-up from the date of hospitalization for surgery up to 30 days after discharge. As independent variables, we evaluated gender, age, marital status, pre- and postoperative hemoglobin (Hb), international normalized ratio, time of hospitalization related to the surgery, door-surgery time, comorbidities, previous surgeries, use of medications, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score. Results The incidence of R30 was 10.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.3-12.3%), and the incidence of IHM was 5.7% (95%CI: 4.3-7.4%). Regarding R30, hypertension (odds ratio [OR]: 1.71; 95%CI: 1.03-2.96), and regular use of psychotropic drugs (OR: 1.74; 95%CI: 1.12-2.72) were associated in the adjusted model. In the case of IHM, higher chances were associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) (OR: 5.80; 95%CI: 2.64-12.31), longer hospitalization time (OR: 1.06; 95%CI: 1.01-1.10), and R30 (OR: 3.60; 95%CI: 1.54-7.96). Higher preoperative Hb values were associated with a lower chance of mortality (OR: 0.73; 95%CI: 0.61-0.87). Conclusion Findings suggest that the occurrence of these outcomes is associated with comorbidities, medications, and Hb.

Factors Associated with Readmission within 30 Days after Discharge and In-Hospital Mortality after Proximal Femoral Fracture Surgery in the Elderly: Retrospective Cohort / Fatores associados à reinternação em até 30 dias após a alta e à mortalidade intra-hospitalar após cirurgia por fratura do fêmur proximal em idosos: coorte retrospectiva

Abstract Objective To evaluate the factors associated with readmission within 30 days after discharge (R30) and in-hospital mortality (IHM) in elderly patients undergoing proximal femur fracture surgery (PFF). Methods Retrospective cohort with data from 896 medical records of elderly (≥ 60 years) patients submitted to PFF surgery in a Brazilian hospital between November 2014 and December, 2019. The patients included were followed-up from the date of hospitalization for surgery up to 30 days after discharge. As independent variables, we evaluated gender, age, marital status, pre- and postoperative hemoglobin (Hb), international normalized ratio, time of hospitalization related to the surgery, door-surgery time, comorbidities, previous surgeries, use of medications, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score. Results The incidence of R30 was 10.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.3-12.3%), and the incidence of IHM was 5.7% (95%CI: 4.3-7.4%). Regarding R30, hypertension (odds ratio [OR]: 1.71; 95%CI: 1.03-2.96), and regular use of psychotropic drugs (OR: 1.74; 95%CI: 1.12-2.72) were associated in the adjusted model. In the case of IHM, higher chances were associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) (OR: 5.80; 95%CI: 2.64-12.31), longer hospitalization time (OR: 1.06; 95%CI: 1.01-1.10), and R30 (OR: 3.60; 95%CI: 1.54-7.96). Higher preoperative Hb values were associated with a lower chance of mortality (OR: 0.73; 95%CI: 0.61-0.87). Conclusion Findings suggest that the occurrence of these outcomes is associated with comorbidities, medications, and Hb.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar os fatores associados à reinternação em até 30 dias após a alta (R30) e à mortalidade intra-hospitalar (MIH) em idosos submetidos a cirurgia por fratura do fêmur proximal (FFP). Métodos Coorte retrospectiva com dados de 896 prontuários de idosos (≥ 60 anos) submetidos a cirurgia de FFP em hospital brasileiro, no período entre novembro de 2014 a dezembro de 2019. Os pacientes incluídos foram acompanhados desde a data de internação para a cirurgia até 30 dias após a alta. Como variáveis independentes, foram avaliados o sexo, idade, estado civil, hemoglobina (Hb) pré e pós-operatória, razão normalizada internacional, tempo da internação relacionada à cirurgia, tempo porta cirurgia, comorbidades, cirurgias prévias, uso de medicamentos e escore da American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). Resultados A incidência de R30 foi de 10,2% (intervalo de confiança [IC] 95%: 8,3-12,3%) e a de MIH foi 5,7% (IC95%: 4,3-7,4%). Referente a R30, no modelo ajustado, associaram-se ter hipertensão (odds ratio [OR]: 1,71; IC95%: 1,03-2,96), uso regular de medicamentos psicotrópicos (OR: 1,74; IC95%: 1,12-2,72). Tratando-se da MIH, maiores chances estiveram associadas à doença renal crônica (DRC) (OR: 5,80; IC95%: 2,64-12,31), maior tempo de internação (OR: 1,06; IC95%: 1,01-1,10) e R30 (OR: 3,60; IC95%: 1,54-7,96). Maiores valores de Hb pré-operatória associaram-se à menor chance de mortalidade (OR: 0,73; IC95%: 0,61-0,87). Conclusão Os achados sugerem que a ocorrência destes desfechos está associada à comorbidades, medicamentos e Hb.

Phenylalanine free infant formula in the dietary management of phenylketonuria.

BACKGROUND: Phenylalanine-free infant formula is an essential source of safe protein in a phenylalanine restricted diet, but its efficacy is rarely studied. We report a multicentre, open, longitudinal, prospective intervention study on a phenylalanine-free infant formula (PKU Start: Vitaflo International Ltd.). RESULTS: This was a 2-part study: part I (28 days short term evaluation) and part II (12 months extension). Data was collected on infant blood phenylalanine concentrations, dietary intake, growth, and gastrointestinal tolerance. Ten infants (n = 8 males, 80%), with a median age of 14 weeks (range 4-36 weeks) were recruited from 3 treatment centres in the UK. Nine of ten infants completed the 28-day follow-up (one caregiver preferred the usual phenylalanine-free formula and discontinued the study formula after day 14) and 7/9 participated in study part II. The phenylalanine-free infant formula contributed a median of 57% (IQR 50-62%) energy and 53% (IQR 33-66%) of total protein intake from baseline to the end of the part II extension study. During the 12-month follow-up, infants maintained normal growth and satisfactory blood phenylalanine control. Any early gastrointestinal symptoms (constipation, colic, vomiting and poor feeding) improved with time. CONCLUSION: The study formula was well tolerated, helped maintain good metabolic control, and normal growth in infants with PKU. The long-term efficacy of phenylalanine-free infant formula should continue to be observed and monitored.

Associations of Hearing Loss and Hearing Aid Use With Cognition, Health-Related Quality of Life, and Depressive Symptoms.

ObjectivesDetermine associations of hearing loss (HL) and hearing aid (HA) use with cognition, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and depressive symptoms. Methods: Participants were from the Epidemiology of Hearing Loss Study or Beaver Dam Offspring Study. HL was defined as pure-tone average (.5-4.0 kHz) > 25 dB. A principal component analysis of 5 cognitive tasks measured cognition. The SF-12 measured mental and physical HRQoL. The Centers for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale measured depressive symptoms (score ≥ 16). Regression models returned beta (B) coefficients or odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals. Results: This study included 3574 participants. HL (vs. none) was associated with poorer cognition (B-.12 [-.18, -.06]), mental (B-.99 [-1.65, -.33]) and physical (B-.76 [-1.50, -.03]) HRQoL, and increased odds of depressive symptoms (OR 1.49 [1.16, 1.91]). HA users had better cognition than non-users. Discussion: HL likely impacts cognition and well-being. HA use may have cognitive benefits.

Breast cancer pharmacogenetics: a systematic review.

Breast cancer was declared the most prevalent type of cancer in 2020. Among other factors, treatment response can be affected by genetic polymorphisms - which is the focus of pharmacogenetics - and ethnicity is also a contributing factor in this context. Relevant genes in disease treatment pathways were selected to evaluate treatment response from the pharmacogenetic perspective; polymorphism frequencies and ethnic and continental representation across the available literature were also assessed through a systematic review. The identified associations and gaps have been described in this study with the purpose that, in the future, treatments can be personalized and thus be more effective, safer, and accessible to all.

Association of Central Retinal Arteriolar and Venular Equivalents with Brain-aging and Macular Ganglion Cell-inner Plexiform Layer Thickness.

INTRODUCTION: Neurodegeneration and cognitive decline in aging are growing public health concerns. This study investigates associations between central retinal arteriolar and venular equivalents (CRAE, CRVE) and brain-aging, a sensory and cognitive test composite measure, and macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (mGCIPL) thickness, a biomarker of neurodegeneration. METHODS: Beaver Dam Offspring Study (BOSS) participants are adult children (baseline (2005-2008) age 21-84 years) of the population-based Epidemiology of Hearing Loss Study participants. Follow-up occurred every 5 years. In 2010-2013, fundus photographs were used to measure retinal vessels. A brain-aging score was constructed by principal component analysis using sensorineural and cognitive data. Associations between incident brain-aging and vessel measures were investigated using logistic regression. Associations between CRAE and CRVE and mGCIPL thickness, measured in 2015-2017, were also investigated. RESULTS: Participants (N = 2381; mean age: 53.9 years (SD = 9.8); 54% women) had a mean CRAE and CRVE of 148.8 µm (SD = 14.5) and 221.7 µm (SD = 20.7), respectively. Among those without ocular conditions, wider CRAE was associated with decreased 5-year brain-aging risk (33% per SD CRAE increase). Both vessel measures were independently associated with mGCIPL thickness. The mGCIPL thickness increased by approximately 1.7 µm and 2.0 µm per SD increase in CRAE and CRVE, respectively. DISCUSSION: The association of CRAE with incident brain-aging indicates its potential use as a screening tool among those without eye disease. The associations between CRAE and CRVE and mGCIPL thickness indicate narrower vasculature could affect neuronal health. These associations point to potential usefulness of retinal vessel measurements to identify people at higher risk of sensorineural declines and neurodegeneration.

Suitability and Allocation of Protein-Containing Foods According to Protein Tolerance in PKU: A 2022 UK National Consensus.

Introduction: There is little practical guidance about suitable food choices for higher natural protein tolerances in patients with phenylketonuria (PKU). This is particularly important to consider with the introduction of adjunct pharmaceutical treatments that may improve protein tolerance. Aim: To develop a set of guidelines for the introduction of higher protein foods into the diets of patients with PKU who tolerate >10 g/day of protein. Methods: In January 2022, a 26-item food group questionnaire, listing a range of foods containing protein from 5 to >20 g/100 g, was sent to all British Inherited Metabolic Disease Group (BIMDG) dietitians (n = 80; 26 Inherited Metabolic Disease [IMD] centres). They were asked to consider within their IMD dietetic team when they would recommend introducing each of the 26 protein-containing food groups into a patient's diet who tolerated >10 g to 60 g/day of protein. The patient protein tolerance for each food group that received the majority vote from IMD dietetic teams was chosen as its tolerance threshold for introduction. A virtual meeting was held using Delphi methodology in March 2022 to discuss and agree final consensus. Results: Responses were received from dietitians from 22/26 IMD centres (85%) (11 paediatric, 11 adult). For patients tolerating protein ≥15 g/day, the following foods were agreed for inclusion: gluten-free pastas, gluten-free flours, regular bread, cheese spreads, soft cheese, and lentils in brine; for protein tolerance ≥20 g/day: nuts, hard cheeses, regular flours, meat/fish, and plant-based alternative products (containing 5−10 g/100 g protein), regular pasta, seeds, eggs, dried legumes, and yeast extract spreads were added; for protein tolerance ≥30 g/day: meat/fish and plant-based alternative products (containing >10−20 g/100 g protein) were added; and for protein tolerance ≥40 g/day: meat/fish and plant-based alternatives (containing >20 g/100 g protein) were added. Conclusion: This UK consensus by IMD dietitians from 22 UK centres describes for the first time the suitability and allocation of higher protein foods according to individual patient protein tolerance. It provides valuable guidance for health professionals to enable them to standardize practice and give rational advice to patients.

A relação família-escola nas publicações da ABRAPEE: Estado do conhecimento / Family-school relationship in ABRAPEE'S publications: State of knowledge

O presente artigo consiste em um recorte de monografia, tratando-se de uma investigação sobre como a produção científica relacionada à área da psicologia escolar e educacional, no Brasil, tem abordado a relação família-escola. Foram analisados artigos publicados na Revista Psicologia Escolar e Educacional, da Associação Brasileira de Psicologia Escolar e Educacional, que abordaram, em alguma medida, tal questão, entre os anos de 1996 e 2020. Verificou-se que, em um universo de 692 artigos, apenas 31 discutiram em torno de questões tocantes à relação família-escola. A análise dos artigos revelou que estes foram elaborados em torno de seis eixos temáticos: parceria família-escola; educação infantil; violência; queixa escolar; dificuldades de aprendizagem, e educação especial. Ainda, verificou-se a predominância de pesquisas sobre contextos e amostras singulares e a ausência de discussões no âmbito das políticas públicas.

This article consists of an extract from a monograph, an investigation on how the scientific production related to the area of school and educational psychology, in Brazil, has treated the family-school relationship. It was investigated how scientific production related to the area of school and educational psychology in Brazil has addressed the family-school relationship. Articles published in the Revista Psicologia Escolar e Educacional, from the Associação Brasileira de Psicologia Escolar e Educacional, that addressed this issue between 1996 and 2020, were analyzed. It was found that, in a universe of 692 articles, only 31 discussed issues regarding the family-school relationship. The analysis of the articles allowed the emergence of six thematic axes: family-school partnership; child education; violence; school complaint; learning difficulties and special education. Also, it was verified that there was a prevalence of research on small samples and isolated contexts as well as the absence of discussions within the scope of public policies.