Copeptin associates with major adverse cardiovascular events in patients on maintenance hemodialysis.

BACKGROUND: End-stage renal disease (ESRD) necessitating hemodialysis pose substantial cardiovascular risks, with cardiovascular disease (CVD) as a leading cause of mortality. Biomarkers like copeptin have emerged as potential indicators of cardiovascular stress and prognosis in CKD populations. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the prognostic value of copeptin in predicting major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) among hemodialysis patients, alongside traditional cardiac biomarkers. METHODS: ESRD patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis were enrolled. Copeptin levels were measured, and patients were followed for MACEs, defined as cardiovascular deaths, myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart failure-related hospitalizations. Cox proportional-hazards models were used to evaluate the association between copeptin and outcomes, adjusting for relevant covariates. RESULTS: Among 351 patients followed for a median of 22.7 months, elevated copeptin levels were significantly associated with an increased risk of MACEs (HR 1.519, 95 % CI 1.140 to 2.023; p = 0.00425). Copeptin demonstrated predictive capability across multiple statistical tests (Log-rank p = 0.024; Gehan p < 0.001; Tarone-Ware p < 0.001; Peto-Peto p = 0.027), although significance was attenuated in pairwise comparisons post-adjustment for multiple testing. Combining copeptin with NT-proBNP or hs-cTnT further enhanced risk stratification for MACEs. CONCLUSION: Elevated copeptin levels independently predict adverse cardiovascular outcomes in hemodialysis patients. Integrating copeptin with traditional cardiac biomarkers may refine risk stratification and guide personalized therapeutic strategies in this high-risk population.

The epidemiology and microbiology of central venous catheter related bloodstream infections among hemodialysis patients in the Philippines: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Despite efforts to improve the management of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) in literature, temporary CVCs continue to be used for maintenance hemodialysis outside of acute care settings, particularly in the Philippines. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study to investigate the incidence, outcomes, risk factors, and microbiological patterns of CRBSI among adult kidney disease patients undergoing hemodialysis at the Philippine General Hospital, the country's largest tertiary referral center. We included all adult patients who received a CVC for hemodialysis from January 1, 2018, to August 31, 2019, and followed them for six months to observe the occurrence of CRBSI and its outcomes. RESULTS: Our study documented a CRBSI incidence rate of 6.72 episodes per 1000 catheter days, with a relapse rate of 5.08%, a reinfection rate of 15.74%, and a mortality rate of 6.09%. On multivariable regression analysis, we identified autoimmune disease, dialysis frequency of > 3 × per week, use of CVC for either blood transfusion or IV medications, renal hypoperfusion, drug-induced nephropathy, and hypertensive kidney disease as significant risk factors for CRBSI. Gram-negative bacteria, including B. cepacia complex, Enterobacter, and Acinetobacter spp, were the most common organisms causing CRBSI. Multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) comprised almost half of the isolates (n = 89, 44.5%), with Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species having the highest proportion among gram-positive organisms and Acinetobacter spp. among gram-negative isolates. CONCLUSION: Our findings emphasize the need for more stringent measures and interventions to prevent the propagation of identified pathogens, such as a review of sterile technique and adequate hygiene practices, continued surveillance, and expedited placement and utilization of long-term access for patients on maintenance hemodialysis. Furthermore, CVC use outside of hemodialysis should be discouraged, and common antibiotic regimens such as piperacillin-tazobactam and fluoroquinolones should be reviewed for their low sensitivity patterns among gram-negative isolates. Addressing these issues can improve hemodialysis patients' outcomes and reduce the CRBSI burden in our institution.

A case-control study investigating cardiovascular health in maintenance hemodialysis patients through oxidative stress biomarkers and carotid artery intima-media thickness.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and it is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis (MHD).

A Rare Case of Tumoral Calcinosis in a Chronic Hemodialysis Patient.

Tumor calcinosis is a rare condition. It is characterized by the presence of calcified masses in the juxta-articular regions without joint involvement. It particularly affects young adults and adolescents. Its exact pathogenesis remains poorly defined. The diagnosis is suspected clinically and radiologically but confirmed by histological examination. The treatment is mainly surgical, and the prognosis is often good. We report the original case of a chronic hemodialysis patient presenting with tumoral calcinosis by discussing our diagnostic and therapeutic approach according to data from the recent scientific literature.

Utility of ultrasound in measuring quadriceps muscle thickness in patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis: comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Muscle wasting, a prevalent issue in hemodialysis patients, is effectively assessed by measuring quadriceps muscle thickness, a crucial health indicator. This meta-analysis integrates findings from various studies on the application of ultrasonography (US) for measuring the thickness of quadriceps muscles in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. DESIGN AND METHODS: We conducted a thorough literature search across PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science up to April 2023. The R software's Meta package was used for mean difference analysis of quadriceps rectus femoris thickness (QRFT) and quadriceps vastus intermedius thickness (QVIT) between hemodialysis patients and healthy controls. All of the patients entered the meta-analysis are Caucasians. Sub-group analyses based on measurement sites and pre- and post-dialysis comparisons were performed. RESULTS: Among 15 studies with 1584 patients, a significant decrease in QRFT and QVIT was observed in hemodialysis patients compared to healthy controls (mean difference = 0.40 cm, 95% CI: -0.49 to -0.31 and 0.46 cm, respectively). Right and left QRFT were notably thinner in hemodialysis patients (RT: mean difference = 0.39 cm; LT: mean difference = 0.42 cm). Similarly, right and left QVIT were notably thinner in hemodialysis patients (RT: mean difference = 0.45 cm; LT: mean difference = 0.47 cm). No significant pre- and post-dialysis QRFT differences were found. CONCLUSION: Ultrasonography is a reliable, accessible tool for assessing quadriceps muscle thickness in hemodialysis patients, revealing consistent muscle thickness reduction. These findings emphasize the need for routine muscle health monitoring in this population and support ultrasound use for regular assessments.

Predictive role of spiritual health, resilience, and mental well-being in treatment adherence among hemodialysis patients.

BACKGROUND: End-stage renal disease (ESRD) causes numerous physical and psychological problems in patients, so that they must adhere to their treatment regimen to recover their disease, alleviate these problems, and increase their lifespan. The present study aimed to determine the predictive role of spiritual health, resilience, and mental well-being in treatment adherence among hemodialysis patients. METHODS: This correlational cross-sectional study investigated some variables related to treatment adherence in 184 patients undergoing hemodialysis referred to two dialysis centers in Kerman, southeastern Iran. A census method was used to select the participants and data were collected using socio-demographic characteristics questionnaire, Adherence to Treatment Questionnaire (ATQ), Conner-Davidson Resilience Scale, Reef Psychological well-being Questionnaire, and Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS). RESULTS: The overall treatment adherence score was 155.42 ± 27.98 and we found a positive significant correlation between spiritual health, resilience, psychological well-being, and treatment adherence (p < 0.001). The mean scores of resilience, spiritual health and psychological well-being were 70.59 ± 17.02, 90.09 ± 12.01, and 77.88 ± 11.72, respectively. Spiritual health, psychological well-being, resilience, gender and marital status predicted 54% of the variance of treatment adherence, with psychological well-being being the best predictor (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Spiritual health, psychological well-being, and resilience are factors that influence treatment adherence of the patients undergoing hemodialysis, with psychological well-being having the greatest contribution to improving patient's treatment adherence. Interventions effective in improving psychological well-being, spiritual health and resilience can improve treatment adherence of patients undergoing hemodialysis. Healthcare workers must pay more attention to the factors affecting treatment adherence of patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Bivalirudin as an anticoagulation strategy for acute hemodialysis in children: Two cases with a summary of recent literature.

Unfractionated heparin is the most used anticoagulative agent for extracorporeal settings in children, including acute hemodialysis modalities. In certain situations, such as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, alternatives must be applied. The direct thrombin inhibitor bivalirudin has come forth as an attractive substitute. Bivalirudin is currently only approved for adult use in specific percutaneous coronary intervention settings. However, it has a growing off-label popularity in different contexts for both adult and pediatric patients. Experience with bivalirudin in children is mainly limited to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, ventricular assist devices and during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. Literature about its use as anticoagulation strategy for pediatric hemodialysis is very scarce. Here, we present two pediatric cases where bivalirudin was used during acute hemodialysis, followed by a short summary of recent literature.

Quality of life and psychological distress in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis and transplantation.

BACKGROUND: Among diverse profound impacts on patients' quality of life (QoL), end-stage renal disease (ESRD) frequently results in increased levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Renal replacement therapies such as hemodialysis (HD) and transplantation (TX) are intended to enhance QoL, although their ability to alleviate psychological distress remains uncertain. This research posits the existence of a significant correlation between negative emotional states and QoL among ESRD patients, with varying effects observed in HD and TX patients. AIM: To examine the relationship between QoL and negative emotional states (depression, anxiety, and stress) and predicted QoL in various end-stage renal replacement therapy patients with ESRD. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included HD or TX patients in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia. The 36-item Short Form Survey and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) was used for data collection, and correlation and regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: The HD and TX transplantation groups showed statistically significant inverse relationships between QoL and DASS scores. HD patients with high anxiety levels and less education scored low on the physical component summary (PCS). In addition, the results of the mental component summary (MCS) were associated with reduced depression. Compared with older transplant patients, TX patients' PCS scores were lower, and depression, stress, and negative working conditions were highly correlated with MCS scores. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study revealed notable connections between well-being and mental turmoil experienced by individuals undergoing HD and TX. The PCS of HD patients is affected by heightened levels of anxiety and lower educational attainment, while the MCS of transplant patients is influenced by advancing age and elevated stress levels. These insights will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of patient support.

Hyperparathyroidism presented as multiple pulmonary nodules in hemodialysis patient status post parathyroidectomy: A case report.

BACKGROUND: Primary hyperparathyroidism is typically caused by a single parathyroid adenoma. Ectopic parathyroid adenomas occur as well, with cases involving various sites, including the mediastinum, presenting in varying frequencies. Secondary hyperparathyroidism develops in the context of chronic kidney disease, primarily due to vitamin D deficiency, hypocalcemia, and hyperphosphatemia. It is frequently diagnosed in patients undergoing dialysis. This article presents a rare case of hyperparathyroidism involving multiple hyperplastic parathyroid glands with pulmonary seeding in a 50-year-old female patient undergoing hemodialysis (HD). CASE SUMMARY: The patient had a history of parathyroidectomy 10 years prior but developed recurrent hyperparathyroidism with symptoms of pruritus and cough with sputum during a period of routine dialysis. Radiographic imaging revealed multiple nodules in both lungs, with the largest measuring approximately 1.35 cm. Surgical histopathology confirmed the presence of hyperplastic parathyroid glands within the pulmonary tissue. After tumor resection surgery via video-assisted thoracic surgery with wedge resection, the patient was discharged in stable condition and in follow-up her symptoms showed improvement. CONCLUSION: This article describes hyperparathyroidism presenting as pulmonary nodules in a patient undergoing post-parathyroidectomy HD, highlighting diagnostic challenges and a positive outcome from tumor resection surgery.

Association between cerebral blood flow variation and cognitive decline in older patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Background: The mechanism of cognitive impairment in hemodialysis patients is multifactorial. The relationship between cerebral blood flow and the decline of cognitive function is poorly understood. Objective: To investigate the association between cerebral blood flow variation and decline of cognitive function in older patients undergoing hemodialysis. Methods: In this prospective observational cohort study of 121 older patients undergoing hemodialysis, we used transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) to measure cerebral arterial mean flow velocity (MFV) throughout dialysis, assessed cognitive function at baseline and 12-month follow-up, and then analyzed associations between MFV and changes on cognitive scores. Results: TCD recordings demonstrated a significant reduction in MFV throughout dialysis, which were significantly correlated with cumulative ultrafiltration volume (rho 0.356, p < 0.001), ΔSBP (rho 0.251, p = 0.005), and ΔMAP (rho 0.194, p = 0.032). Compared with the baseline assessments, cognitive scores of participants at the 12-month follow-up were significantly worsened in global cognition (MOCA), some tests of memory (CFT-memory), executive function (TMT-B, SCWT-C, and SCWT-T), attention/processing speed (SDMT), and visuospatial function (CFT-copy) (p < 0.05). The worsening scores in global cognition (MOCA) (ß = 0.066, 95% CI 0.018-0.113, p = 0.007) and some tests of memory (AVLT5) (ß = 0.050, 95% CI 0.004-0.097, p = 0.035) and executive function (TMT-B, SCWT-C, SCWT-T) (ß = 1.955, 95% CI 0.457-3.453, p = 0.011; ß = 0.298, 95% CI 0.112-0.484, p = 0.002 and ß = 1.371, 95% CI 0.429-2.303, p = 0.004, respectively) were significantly associated with the reduction of MFV. Conclusion: Hemodialysis may significantly reduce cerebral blood flow in older patients; Repetitive intradialytic decreases in CBF may be one of the mechanisms underlying the decline of cognitive function. Clinical trial registration: https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/SelectProtocol?sid=S000C5B5&selectaction=Edit&uid=U0003QEL&ts=4&cx=-djoi2.

Simultaneous analysis of caffeine and paraxanthine provides potentially useful indexes in the treatment of acute caffeine intoxication.

Caffeine (CFF) is efficiently absorbed after ingestion, and approximately 80% of ingested CFF is metabolized to paraxanthine (PXT). Although PXT has approximately twice the adenosine receptor antagonist activity of CFF, there are few reports measuring the metabolite concentrations during CFF intoxication. Furthermore, no studies have examined the efficacy of hemodialysis (HD) on PXT or the indicators that contribute to treatment strategies for patients with acute CFF intoxication. This study analyzed the association between CFF and PXT blood levels, the blood biochemical data, and the vital signs of 27 cases with information on CFF intake and elapsed time data. It was found that HD was not as effective as CFF against PXT in CFF intoxication; however, HD was effective in cases with relatively high PXT concentrations (>10 µg/mL). Simultaneous analysis of CFF and PXT would make it possible to estimate the time elapsed from CFF intake and the risk of hyperCKemia, which may develop in cases left untreated for a prolonged period after ingestion. Therefore, the measurement of PXT, in addition to CFF, is expected to provide useful information for understanding the pathogenesis of CFF intoxication and the development of treatment strategies of acute CFF intoxication.

Residual kidney function and sleep quality in hemodialysis patients.

Background: Sleep disorders frequently affect end-stage renal disease patients on dialysis. However, the relationship between sleep quality and residual kidney function is still unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate this relationship. Methods: In this analytical cross-sectional study, 225 patients who were referred to dialysis centers were studied, and based on renal function, they were classified into two groups with and without residual kidney function. The study employed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire to evaluate sleep quality. Multiple linear regression was utilized to determine the factors affecting sleep quality with a significance level consideration at p<0.05. Results: The mean age of patients was 58.23 ± 13.50 years. 58.7% of patients were males. The problem of serious and very serious sleep in the Sleep latency and sleep duration has been more than other components. 72% of hemodialysis patients had poor sleep quality. In the multiple linear regression model, age (ß = 0.442, 95% CI: 0.096, 0.788), sex (ß = -0.847, 95% CI: -1.641, -0.054), Body mass index (ß = 0.153, 95% CI: 0.058, 0.249) and dialysis duration (ß = 0.097, 95% CI: 0.002, 0.192) were independently and significantly associated with sleep quality score. However, there was no statistically significant relationship between sleep quality and residual kidney function. Conclusion: In conclusion, poor sleep quality is very common in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Therefore, sleep disorders in hemodialysis patients should be considered as one of the most challenging problems by healthcare providers, and early diagnosis and intervention are essential to improve sleep quality.

Variation of brain natriuretic peptide assists with volume management and predicts prognosis of hemodialysis patients.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to elucidate the spectrum of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) expression in hemodialysis patients with euvolemic status and investigate its prognostic significance. METHODS: Patients on chronic hemodialysis were enrolled. The normal range of BNP was measured and analyzed in patients with euvolemic status defined by systolic blood pressure and overhydration. Hemodialysis patients were stratified into groups according to BNP expression at baseline and followed up for 57 months, with all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease-related death being assessed as primary outcomes. RESULTS: BNP significantly correlated with overhydration in all patients (r = 0.255, P = .004). In patients with euvolemic state, the average BNP level was 701 (±645) pg/ml, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 500-902 pg/ml. In patients with BNP < 902 pg/ml, systolic blood pressure significantly correlated with overhydration. Elevated BNP expression correlated with an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality (HR = 1.871, per 782 pg/ml increase, P = .008). The patients with continuously high levels of BNP showed significantly increased risk of cardiovascular disease-related death during follow-up (HR = 12.845, P = .005). CONCLUSION: Predialysis measured BNP levels correlate with volume status, and the common range is from 500 to 902 pg/ml in dialysis patients with euvolemic status. Patients with upregulated BNP expression showed an increased risk of cardiovascular death. Key messages What is already known on this topic  The volume management of hemodialysis patients should be judged comprehensively by clinical manifestations and objective examinations. The parameters involved in the evaluation need to be further optimized. What this study adds  In hemodialysis patients, BNP serves as an indicator of volume status. Properly hydrated hemodialysis patients typically exhibit BNP levels ranging from 500 to 902 pg/ml, while persistent BNP elevation is associated with increased mortality. How this study might affect research, practice, or policy  In clinical practice, BNP can be routinely monitored in hemodialysis patients to provide information for volume adjustment and to identify patients with high mortality risk. The potential advantages of implementing targeted BNP management warrant further investigation through intervention studies.

Calcified Maxillary Fibroma in a Patient on Hemodialysis for Seven Years.

Background: The presentation of mineral bone disorder (MBD) in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) may vary. Consequently, physicians should be capable of recognising this condition when there is a suspicion of its existence. This case report will describe a calcified maxilla tumour as a manifestation of CKD-MBD. Case description: Initially asymptomatic, a 32-year-old female presented with progressive swelling of the upper left jaw. She had a history of routine haemodialysis. Further laboratory, radiological, and histopathological workup revealed the mass was indeed calcified maxillary fibroma arising from the manifestation of CKD-MBD. Conclusion: This study underscores the significance of clinical comprehension of the broad-spectrum manifestations of CKD-MBD, including an initially asymptomatic mass. In addition, the screening of the patient's biochemical was required to determine the necessity of early intervention and improve the patient's outcome. LEARNING POINTS: The case emphasises the importance of recognising atypical presentations of chronic kidney disease-mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD), such as a calcified mass, which are rarely reported but critical for timely intervention.This report underscores the necessity for routine screening for secondary hyperparathyroidism in CKD patients, as early detection can significantly impact patient outcomes.Surgical management of the overlying mass and underlying parathyroid gland hyperplasia should always be considered in the management of the symptomatic CKD-MBD patient.

Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of COVID-Positive Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: A Study from India.

Background: This study describes to the clinical features and outcomes of patients on maintenance hemodialysis infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) delta variant. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of case records of patients on maintenance hemodialysis admitted for management of coronavirus disease (COVID) infection. Our teaching hospital, being a state-designated referral center, had COVID admissions from March 2020 till December 2020. Epidemiological and clinical data were collected and analyzed. Factors influencing survival and the survival curve analysis were assessed. Results: Of a total of 21,228 admissions during the period, 400 patients were referred for nephrology services. Of the 400 referrals, 226 were maintenance hemodialysis patients. Mean age of the group was 50 years, and fever was the most common presenting symptom. On multivariate analysis, factors influencing mortality were found to be older age, presence of diabetes, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, hypoxemia, need for support, and a higher qSOFA score. The probability of survival of dialysis patients at the end of 19 days was 60%. Conclusion: During the pandemic by SARS-CoV-2 delta variant, majority of the nephrology referrals were for maintenance hemodialysis patients. Mortality was 38% in the study group, and the factors associated with mortality with a significant hazard ratio were older age and diabetes.

Comparative Analysis of Tools for Assessment of Protein-Energy Wasting in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis.

Background: Patients with chronic kidney disease have muscle wasting, sarcopenia, and cachexia that contribute to frailty and morbidity. The present study assessed the prevalence of protein-energy wasting in dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease population and evaluated the validity of various nutritional assessment tools in diagnosing protein-energy wasting. Materials and Methods: All patients above 18 years undergoing dialysis for more than 3 months without any active infection or malignancy were included in our study. Data from anthropometric measurements, dietary assessment, and blood investigations were collected. Protein-energy wasting was assessed by the International Society of Renal Nutrition and Metabolism 2008 criteria. Diagnostic validity of the nutritional assessment tools to predict protein-energy wasting was estimated by area under the curve, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy statistics. Results: A total of 146 patients were studied. The prevalence of protein-energy wasting was 56.8%. Protein-energy wasting was significantly associated with socioeconomic status, hospitalization days, and catheter days. Normalized protein catabolism rate had the highest sensitivity (90.4%) for predicting protein-energy wasting. Malnutritional inflammatory score had the highest area under the curve (0.858), specificity (82.5%), and accuracy (82.2%). Mid-upper arm circumference, Dialysis Malnutrition Score, and albumin were also found to be significant predictors of protein-energy wasting. Conclusion: Lack of advanced equipment in suburban and rural centers to detect protein-energy wasting in India can be overcome by using the various stand-alone and combination nutrition assessment tools which have been validated in the present study.

Nutrition Profile and Quality of Life of Adult Chronic Kidney Disease Patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis in India: An Exploratory Study.

Background: Malnutrition and suboptimal food intake are common concerns among chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Medical nutrition therapy plays a significant role in ensuring the well-being of CKD patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD). The present study explored the dietary intake and quality of life (QOL) of CKD patients on MHD. Materials and Methods: Adult CKD patients (n = 107, >20 years, 72% male) on MHD were conveniently selected from dialysis centers across India. This cross-sectional exploratory study elicited information on general profile, height, dry body weight, biochemical parameters, food intake, and QOL of the patients. Nutrient intake was compared with Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) Guidelines. Results: The average energy and protein intake per kg body weight was below the recommendations (energy ∼21 kcal/kg vs. 30-35 kcal/kg body weight and protein ∼0.7g/kg vs. 1-1.2 g/kg body weight). Majority of them (>75%) had inadequate energy and protein intake. The sodium intake of the participants (3109.42 ± 1012.31 mg) was higher than the suggested limit. The energy and protein intake/kg ideal body weight of female patients was significantly higher than male patients (p < 0.05). Overall, their QOL was satisfactory. However, nearly half of them (47%) reported moderate-level problem in the pain and discomfort dimension. Conclusion: Patients were not meeting the recommendations especially for energy and protein. Patient-specific customized nutrition counseling along with routine nutrition assessment, follow-up of patients and continued nutrition education, and motivation and support from the medical care team, especially the dietitian is needed for better dietary compliance and overall improvement of QOL.

Effectiveness of Yoga and Meditation on Quality of Life Among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis.

The rising prevalence of chronic kidney disease poses a future challenge for healthcare and the economy. For patients diagnosed with kidney failure, hemodialysis is the sole recourse until a suitable renal donor is acquired, exerting a discernible impact on the overall quality of life. Yoga and meditation emerge as pivotal elements in enhancing quality of life (QoL), significantly influencing diverse aspects of well-being. The study aimed to identify the effectiveness of yoga and meditation on QoL among hemodialysis patients. An experimental research design with one group pretest - post-test on 100 participants was conducted in Muljibhai Patel Urology Hospital, Nadiad. Pre-tests were conducted on day 1, followed by a 12-week yoga and meditation program with a post-test. Data analysis utilised SPSS-20 software, employing descriptive and inferential statistics. Yoga and meditation effectively demonstrated improvement in QoL in each domain (p < 0.001.) post-intervention. These results emphasize QoL enhancement after incorporating these practices into hemodialysis care.

Impact of Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARB) versus Other Antihypertensive Medication on Blood Pressure in Patients on Dialysis: A Meta-Analysis.

Introduction: Hypertension is an important factor driving mortality among dialysis patients. Angiotensin-II receptor blocker (ARB) has been effective similarly to angiotensin-converting enzymes (ACEs) but with a low incidence of side effects. Methodology: The meta-analysis included all published studies that investigated the effect of ARB on the hypertension in adult dialysis patients (≥18 years). Data extraction was guided by a predetermined checklist. Data sources of the retrieved studies were PubMed, MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, SCOPUS, Cochrane, Web of knowledge, and Google Scholar were systematically searched until February 2023. Using the RevMan 5 software, the mean difference for systolic and diastolic BP (SBP and DBP) and the risk ratio (RR) of the adverse events (AEs) were pooled from the selected studies. The random-effects model was used to compare the difference in the pre-and post-dialysis of the SBP and DBP. Data analyses were performed from December 2022 to February 2023. The primary outcome was the reduction in SBP and DBP in dialysis hypertensive patients who were on anti-hypertensive agents, and the secondary outcome was assessment of AE associated with the drug after dialysis (PROSPERO Registration: CRD42022355369). Results: The initial search yielded 1,679 records, of which 84 studies underwent full-text evaluation, which identified 13 studies and 1,462 patients. The pooled standard MD for losartan with other anti-hypertensive agents, where the pre-dialysis SBP was 0.17 (95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.21-0.55) and the post-dialysis was 0.35 (95% CI: -0.17-1.02); yet, both are statistically non-significant, implies that there was no difference between Losartan and ARB drugs regarding the effect on the SBP. Diastolic BP for predialysis was -0.01 (95% CI: -0.65-0.63) and post-dialysis was 0.03 (95% CI: -0.24-0.30) and statistically non-significant. AEs by the ARB agents were lower compared to other anti-antihypertensive agents (relative risk [RR]: 1.01; 95% CI: 0.59-1.75) and statistically non-significant. Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCT demonstrated that ARB and other anti-hypertensive medications had similar impacts on the treatment of hypertension.