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Background: Hypertensive emergency is a critical disease that causes multiple organ injuries. Although the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAS) is enormously activated in this disorder, whether the RAS contributes to the development of the organ damage has not been fully elucidated. This cross-sectional study was conducted to characterize the association between RAS and the organ damage in patients with hypertensive emergencies. Methods: We enrolled 63 patients who visited our medical center with acute severe hypertension and multiple organ damage between 2012 and 2020. Hypertensive target organ damage was evaluated on admission, including severe kidney impairment (eGFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2, SKI), severe retinopathy, concentric left ventricular hypertrophy (c-LVH), thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and cerebrovascular disease. Then, whether each organ injury was associated with blood pressure or a plasma aldosterone concentration was analyzed. Results: Among 63 patients, 31, 37, 43 and 8 cases manifested SKI, severe retinopathy, c-LVH and ischemic stroke, respectively. All populations with the organ injuries except cerebral infarction had higher plasma aldosterone concentrations than the remaining subset but exhibited a variable difference in systolic or diastolic blood pressure. Twenty-two patients had a triad of SKI, severe retinopathy and c-LVH, among whom 5 patients manifested TMA. Furthermore, the number of the damaged organs was correlated with plasma aldosterone levels (Spearman's coefficient = 0.50), with a strong association observed between plasma aldosterone (≥ 250 pg/mL) and 3 or more complications (odds ratio = 9.16 [95%CI: 2.76–30.35]). Conclusion: In patients with hypertensive emergencies, a higher aldosterone level not only contributed to the development of the organ damage but also was associated with the number of damaged organs in each patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Among various growth parameters, liver and spleen size is an important parameter used for the evaluation of patients with certain disorders and abnormalities in these organs. Aim: To determine the normal dimensions for the liver, spleen, and kidney in Egyptian infants, children, and adolescents from birth to 18 years. Methods: This cross-sectional randomized study was conducted on 1861 Egyptian infants, children, and adolescents from birth to 18 years for the establishment of Z score reference of liver, spleen, and kidney parameters. Results: Egyptian children of both sexes (51.5% boys and 48.5% girls) from birth to 18 years old were studied. Then Z scores reference for liver, spleen, and kidney parameters for both sexes were represented in detailed tables and graphs. There was no statistically significant difference between both sexes, so we used unisex tables and graphs (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Determination of pathologic changes in the size of the liver, spleen, and kidney necessitates knowing the normal range of dimensions for these organs. So, our study established a Z score chart for normal values of liver, spleen, and kidney size for children and adolescents from birth to 18 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indoxyl sulfate (IS), a uremic toxin, is a harmful factor that damages kidneys. Chronic heat stress in laying hens causes renal injury; however, whether IS accumulation is involved in this injury remains unknown. We selected 20 Boris brown laying hens (27 weeks old) and randomly assigned them to two groups (n = 10), one group was exposed to chronic heat stress (32 °C for 4 weeks), whereas the other was maintained at 24 °C. Chronic heat exposure significantly increased plasma and renal IS concentrations (P < 0.05). Exposure to heat also increased renal expression of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and its target genes (CYP1A4 and CYP1B1). Furthermore, chronic heat exposure tended to increase the 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances content (P = 0.08) and significantly decreased the antioxidant capacity in the kidney, while increasing the transcription levels of nuclear factor κB and fibrosis-related genes (COLA1A1, αSMA, TGF-β, Smad3, and VCAM-1) and the area of renal fibrosis. Our results indicate that chronic heat exposure induces systemic and renal IS accumulation in laying hens. This accumulated IS may activate the AhR pathway and chronically disrupt the oxidative stress status and antioxidant activity, thus promoting renal fibrosis and dysfunction in laying hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) is a fruit that possesses antioxidant, antibacterial, antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties. Before this, an acute toxicity test was conducted on the ethanol extract of mangosteen rind. However, further testing is required, specifically the subchronic toxicity test, to identify any hazardous effects that may not have been found in the previous study. The objective of this study is to evaluate the amount of toxicity based on the mortality rate, alterations in the relative weight of the kidneys, and changes in renal function as shown by levels of urea and creatinine. This study is an experimental investigation that employs the Post-test Only Control Group Design methodology, with a sample of 40 rats. The rats were categorized into two groups: the control group and the treatment group. The treatment group was divided into three subgroups, each receiving a dosage of 250 mg/kg body weight. The doses were 500 milligrams per kilogram and 1000 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, respectively. The control group received simply water and feed. The duration of the treatment was 28 days. Observations were conducted over 28 days, which involved monitoring animal mortality. On the 29th day, a surgical procedure was carried out to assess the comparative weight of the kidneys and collect blood samples for analyzing the levels of urea and creatinine. The findings demonstrated no mortality in the test subjects, although there was an elevation in the relative mass of the kidneys and an increase in urea concentrations. The increase in urea levels was observed in female rats using the Kruskal--Wallis test (P = 0.019). The study was further conducted using the post-hoc Mann--Whitney test. Control female rats exhibited notable disparities when administered dosages of 250 mg/kgBW and 500 mg/kgBW. The repeated administration of an ethanolic extract derived from the peel of the mangosteen fruit had a detrimental impact on the functioning of the kidneys, as evidenced by a rise in urea concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a suspected renal insult which may develop from different causes, one of these causes is the administration of high doses of glucocorticoids for long period of time as dexamethasone, which has a wide variety uses in different types of illnesses, inflammatory or immunological problems. To examine the effect of different doses of dexamethasone in producing immunohistochemical changes on renal tissues in a different period of administration using cellular markers (Active CASP 3 and ALDH1A1) in rabbits. Eight groups of white New Zealand female rabbi ts were used, seven animals in each group. The first and second (G1 and G2) groups served as control groups. G3 and G4 groups are treated groups injected with (0.5 and 1.5 mg/kg body weight of dexamethasone respectively) for 10 days. G5 and G6 were also tr eated groups where they were treated with (0.5 and 1.5 mg/kg body weight of dexamethasone respectively) for 15 days. G7 and G8 considered as follow up groups for G4 and G6 groups where they left without treatment for another 10 days for both groups. The re nal tissue examined in all groups histologically by using H & E stain, and immunohistochemistry by Active CASP3 and ALDH1A1 markers. Moderate expression of Active CASP 3 in most of treated and follow up groups with strong expression of ALDH1A1 in most of treated and follow up groups in comparison to control groups (G1 and G2) which was statistically significant. Dexamethasone produces a pseudo acute kidney injury that healed after discontinuation of drug which is confirmed by expression of active CASP 3 and ALDH1A1 immunohistochemical markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cilia are hair-like structures found on the surface of nearly all vertebrate cell types where they have central roles in regulating development and orchestrating physiological events. There is growing interest in understanding the mechanisms of ciliogenesis due to the profound consequences that follow from the absence of proper ciliary function, which include diseases that affect the renal, respiratory, reproductive, nervous, visual, and digestive systems, among others. Now, a recent report has discerned new roles for the transcription factor estrogen-related receptor gamma a (esrrγa) in ciliated cell ontogeny within the embryonic zebrafish kidney and other tissues. Further, the team of researchers discovered that genetic ablation of murine homolog ERRγ in adult kidney epithelial cells led to shortened cilia, which precedes cystogenesis. These intriguing findings expand our fundamental understanding of the pathological basis of cilia defects, which is relevant for identifying future therapeutic targets for ciliopathies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of kidney disease from acute and chronic conditions continues to escalate worldwide. Interventions to replace renal function after organ failure remain limited to dialysis or transplantation, as human kidneys exhibit a limited capacity to repair damaged cells or regenerate new ones. In contrast, animals ranging from flies to fishes and even some mammals like the spiny mouse exhibit innate abilities to regenerate their kidney cells following injury. Now, a recent study has illuminated how the Mexican salamander, Ambystoma mexicanum, most commonly known as the axolotl, possesses a kidney with remarkable similarity to humans, which can robustly regenerate following acute chemical damage. These discoveries position the axolotl as a new model that can be used to advance our understanding about the fundamental mechanisms of kidney regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transplantation is the most efficient alternative to treat terminal functional kidney failure. To synthesize the literature on the topic, this systematic review sought to retrieve evidence that empirically analyzed the frequency of kidney transplantation in Brazil, relating it to the COVID-19 pandemic. The PUBMED, LILACS and SCIELO databases were consulted using the descriptors: "Transplantation", "Kidney", "COVID-19", and "Brazil". Thus, 146 studies were retrieved and only six were included in the review. The review showed that the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the number of kidney transplants, increased the transplant waiting list, reduced the number of donors, and there were reports of infections and deaths among patients undergoing kidney treatment and transplant recipients during the pandemic. These findings emphasize the need for more research and attention in the area of kidney transplantation and mitigate the effect of health crises similares to COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the development of the kidneys and adrenal glands in rabbits using histological, histochemical, and biochemical techniques. The experiment was conducted on 28 kidney and adrenal gland samples at different ages (one day, seven days, fourteen days, and ninety days). Histological findings revealed that the kidney was covered by a small amount of collagen and reticular fibers and had a thin capsule that thickened with age. The renal corpuscle increased in diameter as the age progressed. The proximal convoluted tubules were the longest, surrounded by cuboidal epithelial tissue, and had a brush border. The adrenal glands were encased in a well-developed capsule, and the cortex was divided into the glomerular, fasciculate, and reticular zones. The medulla was composed of large, pale-staining hexagonal cells arranged in small anastomosing strands held together by reticular fibers and separated by sinusoids. Norepinephrine cells were smaller. Histochemical studies showed that the brush border in the kidney responded positively to PAS, AB, and PAS-AB stains. PAS staining revealed that the basement membranes of the glomerulus and renal tubules were fully developed. Biochemical tests showed significant age-related differences in uric acid levels and each enzyme. As the urea burden increased, more urine was needed because the kidneys' ability to filter urea was limited. The kidneys underwent postnatal developmental changes, reaching maturity three months after birth when the normal adult nephron structure was observed. This indicated that the structure of the kidney and adrenal glands developed after birth with age progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: In tropical regions, the intrusion of saline from seawater (SW) due to global warming and sea level rise in recent years is an important natural factor influencing goat well-being. This study aimed to determine the effects of diluted SW in drinking water on the physiological responses and eating and drinking patterns of crossbred dairy goats under tropical conditions. Materials and Methods: Twenty dairy goats were divided into four groups (five animals each) based on body weight and milk yield. Animals received either fresh drinking water (SW0.0, control) or diluted SW at concentrations of 0.5% (SW0.5, low salinity), 1% (SW1.0, moderate salinity), and 1.5% (SW1.5, high salinity). The experiment was performed for 49 days (1st-7th week). Throughout this period, daily food and water intake were measured every day. In addition, blood collection was performed on day 25. Total urine and feces were collected from days 25 to 29. Meal and drinking patterns were determined on days 31 and 32. Results: Salinity did not influence dry matter intake throughout the experiment (p > 0.05). However, SW had a significant effect on eating patterns. The effect of SW on water intake (WI) was pronounced from the 2nd to 7th weeks of this experiment (p < 0.05). The water balance decreased and plasma antidiuretic hormone levels increased from SW1.5 to SW2.5 compared to the other treatments. Rectal temperature and respiration rate increased from 15:00 to 17:00 in SW1.5 patients. The concentrations of plasma electrolyte, creatinine, and heat shock protein 70 did not differ between treatments (p > 0.05). The urinary excretion of Na+ from SW1.5 and K+ and Cl-from SW1.0 was higher than that from SW0.0 and SW0.5 (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Lactating crossbred goats adapted to low and moderate SW by increasing urine volume and urinary electrolyte excretion (Uex), whereas animals responded to high SW by either increasing Uex or altering drinking patterns to minimize salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emergency repair of type II thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms is burdened by high perioperative morbidity and mortality. We report the case of a symptomatic type II post-dissection thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm that was treated using a hybrid technique. The repair was carried out in 2 stages. In the first stage, we deployed 2 imbricated stent grafts in the descending thoracic aorta. A left carotid-to-left subclavian artery bypass was pre-emptively performed to obtain a proper proximal landing zone and as part of the manoeuvres to protect the spinal cord. The endovascular first stage was effective in obtaining proximal sealing but, as expected, it did not prevent distal reperfusion of the aneurysmatic false lumen. A few hours later, we moved on to the second stage in which we repaired the aneurysmal distal thoracic and abdominal aortic segment by means of a multibranched synthetic graft. The repair was carried out through a left thoracophreno-laparotomy in the seventh intercostal space. A left passive arterial bypass and selective cold renal and warm visceral perfusion were adopted to provide organ protection. Technical success was achieved and confirmed radiologically. The patient experienced mild postoperative paraplegia, which almost completely regressed after a neuromotor rehabilitation program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) have gained increasing attention for their potential benefits in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Most supportive evidence of a kidney‐protective effect of the GLP‐1RA class of medications has been derived from kidney‐related outcomes reported from cardiovascular outcome trials (CVOTs). GLP‐1RAs have been shown to reduce albuminuria, mitigate cardiovascular risk, and possibly attenuate estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline. The kidney‐protective effects of GLP‐1RAs are thought to be attributed to their anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory properties. Despite these promising findings, the use of GLP‐RAs has yet to be definitively shown to slow progression to chronic kidney failure in people with T2DM. The Research Study to See How Semaglutide Works Compared to Placebo in People With Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease (FLOW trial) is the first major trial assessing the potential of a GLP‐1RA to slow progression of kidney disease in people with established CKD to clinically important kidney end points. On March 5, 2024, the top line result from FLOW was announced with semaglutide 1.0 mg being reported to reduce the primary end point of the trial by a significant 24% compared with placebo. Here, we summarize the kidney outcomes reported from CVOTs for the GLP‐1RA class of medication and briefly describe kidney outcomes from other major GLP‐1RAs trials. We also discuss a potential role of the dual GLP‐1/glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonist, tirzepatide, as a kidney‐protective agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intraoperative hypotension is associated with acute kidney injury after surgery. However, the definition (duration and magnitude) of hypotension during kidney transplantation (KT) surgery on early graft function remains unclear. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of KT recipients from December 1, 2009, to December 31, 2019. Exposure to intraoperative hypotension was characterized as the duration (minutes) of mean arterial pressure (MAP) <55, <65, <75, and <85 mmHg. Our co‐primary outcomes were DGF‐creatinine reduction ratio (DGF‐CRR, <30% creatinine reduction, postoperative days 1 and 2), and DGF‐dialysis (DGF‐D, required dialysis within the week of KT for deceased donor recipients). Logistic regression models were fitted to assess this relationship between MAP and DGF. Results: We included 1602 KT (939 deceased donors, 663 living donors) and 23 were excluded. DGF‐CRR occurred in 33% of patients. DGF‐CRR was associated with MAP < 65 (>5 min: OR 1.77, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.39–2.30; 6–10 min: OR 1.67, 95% CI: 0.97–2.86; 11–20 min: OR 2.18, 95% CI: 1.31–3.63) in unadjusted and <55 mmHg (5 min: OR 1.85, 95% CI: 1.47–2.32; 5–10 min: OR 2.41, 95% CI: 1.65–3.53; 11–20 min: OR 2.36, 95% CI: 1.60, 3.48) in adjusted models. There was also a signal for increased risk of DGF‐CRR at MAP < 75 (>5 min: OR 1.69, 95% CI: 1.02–2.80). DGF‐D (incidence 35%) in deceased donor KT was not associated with hypotension. Conclusions: We found an association between intraoperative hypotension and DGF‐CRR at a threshold MAP of 55 mmHg, with a consistent signal toward increased risk at both 65 and 75 mmHg, as indicated by unadjusted models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Renal dysfunction in patients with psoriasis is multifactorial and is seen more commonly with severe psoriasis, disease of long duration and psoriatic arthritis. Material and Method: Single-center cross-sectional observational study was conducted in tertiary care Medical College Hospital, Chennai, India to compared renal function parameters in patients with Psoriasis with psoriatic arthritis (PsA), psoriatic without psoriatic arthritis and control. Total of 60 adult patients, 20 in each group, those with psoriasis having PsA; psoriasis without PsA and control were included. Blood urea, Serum creatinine, Urine albumin, and 24-hour urine protein were done and values analyzed. Results: Prevalence of psoriatic arthritis was greater in males. Patients with psoriatic arthritis had statistically significant elevation in serum creatinine, urine albumin and 24-hour urine protein. There was no statistically significant elevation of blood urea level in patients with psoriasis having psoriatic arthritis. Conclusion: Serum creatinine, urine albumin and 24-hour urine protein maay be considered as parameters which can be done for adult psoriasis patients as a screening test to suspect PsA. Early detection of PsA and appropriate management can help prevent crippling of joints and patients with renal involvement may be helped with precision therapy in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of procedural efficacy, safety, and patient outcomes between 2 distinct approaches for percutaneous antegrade double-J ureteral stent (DJS) insertion: the first-hand approach and via a nephrostomy route. Methods: Electronic records of patients undergoing percutaneous antegrade ureteral DJS placement from January 2016 to 2023 were reviewed. Patients were categorized into 2 groups based on stent placement technique: the first-hand group, involving a single-stage approach without prior percutaneous nephrostomy catheter insertion, and the nephrostomy group, where stent placement occurred through a percutaneous nephrostomy tube. Clinical data, including patient demographics, primary diagnoses, procedural details, complication rates, stent placement success, and post-procedural outcomes, were collected and analysed. Results: Both approaches demonstrated high technical success rates (93.1%). However, the nephrostomy route group exhibited a comparatively higher fluoroscopy exposure rate (8.2 min) than the first-hand group (6.8 min). Moreover, the complication risk increased by 3.08 times in patients treated with the nephrostomy method (P = .047). Notably, in cases of urinary malignancies, the preference was for placing DJS via nephrostomy. Conclusion: The first-hand approach should be prioritized as the initial choice in suitable cases owing to its reduced fluoroscopy time, lower complication rate, and the single-stage nature of the procedure. Advances in knowledge: With the exception of cases necessitating urgent drainage, such as post-renal acute renal failure and urosepsis, the first-hand method is the primary approach for inserting DJS. This is primarily due to the significantly shorter radiation time and the single-stage nature of the procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The super-pulsed thulium fiber laser (SP TFL) is a new alternative to high-power holmium laser for intracorporeal lithotripsy. The SP TFL has shown advantages in dusting regimes, but benefits in fragmentation regimes are less understood. The second-generation SP TFL introduces an advanced fragmentation pulse (AFP) sequence to maximize SP TFL's efficiency in fragmentation. This study evaluates safety and efficacy of the SP TFL fragmentation mode in ureteroscopy (URS) and mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mini-PCNL). Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in two phases. Safety of a new AFP was compared ex vivo to standard SP TFL fragmentation settings by measuring the dimensions of wounds created in porcine kidney after laser exposure for 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 s. The resulting wounds were evaluated histologically using nitro blue tetrazolium chloride (NBTC) stain. In the clinical phase, the second-generation SP TFL was used to fragment and extract ureteral and renal stones in 40 patients using ureteroscopic and percutaneous approaches. The stone size, volume, density, laser-on-time, and total energy were recorded for each patient. In addition, the chemical composition, ablation rate, and ablation efficiency were assessed for each stone treatment. Results: The ex vivo mucosa damage profiles caused by AFP were similar to those caused by regular pulses. In clinical phase, the median volume and density for ureteral stones were 0.4 cm3 and 1029 Hounsfield units (HU), for renal stones 1.3 cm3 and 1113 HU, respectively. Different stone types were crushed into fragments suitable for extraction. The mean AFP energy was 3 J and the average power for ureteral stones was 10.5 W, whereas for renal stones it was 28.5 J and 31 W, respectively. The overall complication rate was low in both groups. Conclusion: ST PFL with AFP capability facilitates effective fragmentation of ureteral and renal stones of any composition during URS and mini-PCNL with minimal complication rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin accumulates in the kidneys, leading to acute kidney injury (AKI). Preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated sex-dependent outcomes of cisplatin-AKI. Deranged histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity is hypothesized to promote the pathogenesis of male murine cisplatin-AKI; however, it is unknown whether there are sex differences in the kidney HDACs. We hypothesized that there would be sex-specific Hdac expression, localization, or enzymatic activity, which may explain sexual dimorphic responses to cisplatin-AKI. In normal human kidney RNA samples, HDAC10 was significantly greater in the kidneys of women compared with men, whereas HDAC1, HDAC6, HDAC10, and HDAC11 were differentially expressed between the kidney cortex and medulla, regardless of sex. In a murine model of cisplatin-AKI (3 days after a 15 mg/kg injection), we found few sex- or cisplatin-related differences in Hdac kidney transcripts among the mice. Although Hdac9 was significantly greater in female mice compared with male mice, HDAC9 protein localization did not differ. Hdac7 transcripts were greater in the inner medulla of cisplatin-AKI mice, regardless of sex, and this agreed with a greater HDAC7 abundance. HDAC activity within the cortex, outer medulla, and inner medulla was significantly lower in cisplatin-AKI mice but did not differ between the sexes. In agreement with these findings, a class I HDAC inhibitor did not improve kidney injury or function. In conclusion, even though cisplatin-AKI was evident and there were transcript level differences among the different kidney regions in this model, there were few sex- or cisplatin-dependent effects on kidney HDAC localization or activity. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: Kidney histone deacetylases (HDACs) are abundant in male and female mice, and the inner medulla has the greatest HDAC activity. A low dose of cisplatin caused acute kidney injury (AKI) in these mice, but there were few changes in kidney HDACs at the RNA/protein/activity level. A class I HDAC inhibitor failed to improve AKI outcomes. Defining the HDAC isoform, cellular source, and interventional timing is necessary to determine whether HDAC inhibition is a therapeutic strategy to prevent cisplatin-AKI in both sexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify potentially transplantable organs in a pool of marginal kidneys, 33 porcine slaughterhouse kidneys were perfused for 4 h with whole blood. During the normothermic perfusion, plasma, urine, and tissue samples were taken. Several biomarkers for tubule injury, endothelial activation, and inflammatory response were evaluated for a potential correlation with macroscopic appearance, histology, and filtration activity. Generally, biomarker levels increased during perfusion. TLR-4, EDN-1, and NGAL were not associated with any classification. In contrast, a steeper increase in NAG and IL-6 in plasma correlated with a poor macroscopic appearance at 4 h, indicating a higher inflammatory response in the kidneys with worse macroscopy early on, potentially due to more damage at the tubules. Although long-term effects on the graft could not be assessed in this setting, early observation under machine perfusion with whole blood was feasible. It allowed the assessment of kidneys under conditions comparable to reperfusion. This setting could give surgeons further insight into the quality of marginal kidneys and an opportunity to pre-treat them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: 3-Monochloropropanediol esters (3-MCPDEs) are process contaminants generated during food processing. Although there is no clinical evidence directly linking them to adverse health effects, concerns have been raised regarding their potential to cause renal damage and cancer. To investigate this, we analyzed the concentrations of 3-MCPDEs in kidney tissues from 68 individuals, categorized into two groups: those with kidney cancer and those without. The levels of 3-MCPDEs were quantified using a validated analytical method, with the analyst blinded to the sample origins to ensure objectivity. The results indicated that 3-MCPDE concentrations were significantly higher in the kidneys of patients with kidney cancer compared to those without cancer. However, no significant correlation was found between 3-MCPDE levels and tumor size or stage. These findings suggest that 3-MCPDEs can accumulate in human kidneys and that their levels are elevated in cancerous tissues. Background: 3-Monochloro-propanediol esters (3-MCPDEs), commonly found in refined edible oils and related products, have generated concerns due to their nephrotoxicity and carcinogenicity, yet clinical evidence remains limited. Objectives: In this study, we aimed to assess, for the first time, the accumulation of 3-MCPDEs in human kidney tissues, focusing on 68 participants, some with and others without renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Methods: An analytical method for 3-MCPDE determination in kidney tissues underwent partial validation to ensure its suitability for sample analysis. The analyst was blind to the sample groups. Results: Results revealed significantly higher 3-MCPDE levels in RCC patients compared to non-RCC counterparts (0.22 vs. 0.01 µg/g) (p < 0.01). Moreover, no significant correlation was found between 3-MCPDE levels and tumor stage or size in the RCC group. Conclusions: Accumulation of 3-MCPDEs in humans, with significantly higher levels was observed in kidney tumor specimens compared to non-patients. These findings suggest minimizing the intake of 3-MCPD and its esters in diets in order to reduce potential negative health impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This case report describes a patient with a pelvic kidney associated with an aortoiliac aneurysm amenable to open repair. Methods: We chose the selective cold renal perfusion to preserve renal function. Results: Other techniques such as transient or permanent extra-anatomic bypass, extracorporeal circulation and proximal aortic double clamping are also described in this report. Conclusions: Choosing the renal perfusion technique depended on the anatomical evaluations of the kidney and the renal artery location during the preoperative period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Rising global temperatures due to climate change pose a health risk. Mortality and morbidity increase during heat events affects various organ systems. While warmer countries face higher risks, even colder regions show elevated mortality during hot periods. This study examines physiological responses to heat exposure using data from the general Danish population cohort Lolland–Falster Health Study (LOFUS) during the summers of 2016–2019. Methods In this cross-sectional study, we analysed health data from 3804 individuals aged ≥15 years. Data were analysed across organ systems: cardiovascular system, lung function, renal system, inflammation, coagulation, and liver function. Meteorological data from the Danish Meteorological Institute provided information on temperature and humidity. Heat exposure was defined as one day ≥28°C heat index the day prior to examination. Adjusted multiple linear regression was applied to analyse differences between the two groups. Results There were 46 of 368 days with temperatures ≥28°C heat index. In total, 396 participants were heat-exposed (exposure group), while 3408 constituted the unexposed group. Heat exposure was associated with lower systolic blood pressure (−3.82 mm Hg [−5.72; −1.93]), higher heart rate (1.71 beats/min [0.45; 2.98]), lower oxygen saturation (−0.28% [−0.45; −0.10]), higher sodium (0.56 mmol/l [0.33; 0.79]), and higher urine albumin (0.14 mg/l [0.02; 0.27]). No significant differences were observed in inflammation, coagulation, or liver function. Conclusion This study reveals early physiological responses to heat with one day of heat exposure ≥28°C, particularly in the cardiovascular, pulmonary, and renal systems. These findings underline the need for tailored strategies to mitigate health risks associated with rising temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teratoma is a germ cell tumor composed of 2 or 3 germ cell layers, and it can occur in various parts of the human body. However, teratomas of the renal hilum are particularly rare, and those complicated by carcinoids are even more uncommon. Herein, we report the example of an asymptomatic 49-year-old woman in whom a tumor in the right renal hilum was unexpectedly discovered on imaging. Histological examination revealed a carcinoid tumor arising from a simple cyst composed of teratomatous tissue. Although the tumor was located in the renal hilum and touched the renal parenchyma, it appeared independent of the kidney and urinary tract. This report highlights the rare occurrence of teratomas with carcinoids and provides insights into their origins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Renal ischemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI) is a major cause of acute kidney injury. Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) exerts a protective effect in renal IRI. The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of exogenous H2S on renal IRI by regulating autophagy in mice. Methods: Mice were randomly assigned to control, IRI and NaHS (an H2S donor, 28, 56 and 100 μmol/kg) groups. Renal IRI was induced by clamping the bilateral renal pedicles with non‐traumatic arterial clamp for 45 min and then reperfused for 24 h. Mice were administered intraperitoneally with NaHS 20 min prior to renal ischemia. Sham group mice underwent the same procedures without clamping. Serum and kidney tissues were harvested 24 h after reperfusion for functional, histological, oxidative stress, and autophagic determination. Results: Compared with the control group, the concentrations of serum creatinine (Scr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and malondialdehyde (MDA), the protein levels of LC3II/I, Beclin‐1 and P62, as well as the number of autophagosomes were significantly increased, but the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was decreased after renal IRI. NaHS pre‐treatment dramatically attenuated renal IRI‐induced renal dysfunction, histological changes, MDA concentration and p62 expression in a dose‐dependent manner. However, NaHS increased the SOD activity and the protein levels of LC3II/I and Beclin‐1. Conclusion: These results indicate that exogenous H2S protects the kidney from IRI through enhancement of autophagy and reduction of oxidative stress. Novel H2S donors could be developed in the treatment of renal IRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The effectiveness of the coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) vaccine in Japanese patients undergoing haemodialysis has previously not been evaluated on a large scale. We analyzed data from the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy Renal Data Registry (JRDR), covering nearly all Japanese patients undergoing dialysis (~95% coverage), to examine the association between COVID‐19 vaccination and infection or mortality. Methods: We used data from the JRDR end‐of‐year surveys conducted in 2020 and 2021, including information on the COVID‐19 vaccination and infection months. COVID‐19 infection incidence and its associated mortality rates based on vaccination status (time updated) and odds ratio (OR) (vaccinated vs. unvaccinated) were estimated monthly from April 2021, when vaccination commenced in Japan. Results: COVID‐19 infection analysis included 228 865 patients (215 941 vaccinated and 12 924 unvaccinated patients at the end of 2021). The age‐ and sex‐adjusted ORs (aORs) were significantly lower in August, September, October and November 2021, especially in September (aOR [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 0.25 [0.18–0.36]). Additional adjustments for past medical history and laboratory results rarely affected these results. Similarly, in the COVID‐19‐related mortality analysis with 228 731 patients, including 216 781 vaccinated and 11 950 unvaccinated at the end of 2021, COVID‐19‐related mortality risk was significantly lower in the vaccinated group in August, September, October and November (aOR [95% CI]: August, 0.32 [0.12–0.84], September, 0.04 [0.01–0.11]; October, 0.10 [0.01–0.81]; November, 0.05 [0.00–0.79]). Conclusion: In Japanese patients undergoing haemodialysis, the first or second COVID‐19 vaccine dose was significantly associated with decreased COVID‐19 infection and mortality rates, suggesting its effectiveness in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) regulate gene expression and biological procedures by controlling target genes or downstream pathways by sponging their related miRNA (s). Three types of circRNAs have been identified; exonic circRNAs (ecircRNAs), intronic RNAs (ciRNAs), and exon-intron circRNAs (ElciRNAs). It is clarified that altered levels of circRNAs have dynamic pathological and physiological functions in kidney diseases. Evidence suggests that circRNAs can be considered novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for renal diseases. Glomerulonephritis (GN) is a general term used to refer to a wide range of glomerular diseases. GN is an important cause of chronic kidney diseases. Here, we review the biogenesis of circRNAs, and their molecular and physiological functions in the kidney. Moreover, the dysregulated expression of circRNAs and their biological functions are discussed in primary and secondary glomerulonephritis. Moreover, diagnostic and therapeutic values of circRNAs in distinguishing or treating different types of GN are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Klotho, a key component of the endocrine fibroblast growth factor receptor—fibroblast growth factor axis, is a multi‐functional protein that impacts renal electrolyte handling. The physiological significance of Klotho will be highlighted in the regulation of calcium, phosphate, and potassium metabolism. Methods: In this review, we compare several murine models with different renal targeted deletions of Klotho and the insights into the molecular and physiological function that these models offer. Results: In vivo, Klotho deficiency is associated with severely impaired mineral metabolism, with consequences on growth, longevity and disease development. Additionally, we explore the perspectives of Klotho in renal pathology and vascular events, as well as potential Klotho treatment options. Conclusion: This comprehensive review emphasizes the use of Klotho to shed light on deciphering the renal molecular in vivo mechanisms in electrolyte handling, as well as novel therapeutic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the hibernation season, the thirteen-lined ground squirrel undergoes cyclical torpor and arousal periods. The decrease and restoration of metabolic rate and oxygen delivery during torpor and arousal, respectively, may cause reperfusion-ischemia injury in the kidneys. In order to maintain the structural integrity of the kidneys necessary for renal function resumption during arousal, the thirteen-lined ground squirrel has developed adaptive methods to prevent and repair kidney injury. In this present study, computational methods were used to clean and analyze sequenced kidney RNA samples. Significantly differentially expressed microRNAs and enriched gene sets were also determined. From the gene set analysis, the results showed an increase in ubiquitin-related processes and p53 signaling pathways which suggested the occurrence of kidney damage during torpor. There was also an observed increase in cell cycle processes and the anchoring junction cellular compartment which may lend to the prevention of kidney injury. From the differentially expressed microRNAs, miR-27a (log 2 FC = 1.639; p-value = 0.023), miR-129 (log 2 FC = 2.516; p-value = 0.023), miR-let-7b (log 2 FC = 2.360; p-value = 0.025), miR-let-7c (log 2 FC = 2.291; p-value = 0.037) and miR-let-7i (log 2 FC = 1.564; p-value = 0.039) were found to be significantly upregulated. These biochemical adaptations may allow the thirteen-lined ground squirrel to maintain kidney structure and function during hibernation. • Increased ubiquitin-related action and p53 signaling suggest torpid kidney damage. • Increased cell cycle processes and anchoring junction may prevent kidney injury. • Changes in microRNA expression contribute to the prevention of kidney lesions. • Conflicting results show increase in pathways that encourage renal fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, an analysis of leukocyte changes in the organs of the immune system (pronephros, mesonephros, and spleen) of the Baikal omul Coregonus migratorius (Georgi, 1775) (Salmoniformes: Coregonidae) infected with Dibothriocephalus dendriticus (Nitsch, 1824) (syn. Diphyllobothrium dendriticum) (Cestoda: Diphyllobothriidea) is presented in natural habitat conditions. In the pronephros of infected fish, the number of poorly differentiated neutrophils (myelocytes and metamyelocytes) was significantly higher than in uninfected fish, which indicated inflammatory processes. D. dendriticus triggered the immunoregulatory processes in the body of infected fish, as evidenced by the decrease in the total number of lymphocytes and prolymphocytes (B-lymphocytes) in the pronephros and the increase in prolymphocytes in the spleen. The other effector elements (cells of the monocyte–macrophage lineage, basophils, and eosinophils) were barely involved in antiparasitic defense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Practical relevance: Phosphorus is an essential nutrient required for the normal function of every cell in the body and a deficiency in dietary phosphorus may lead to adverse effects. Conversely, high dietary phosphorus may cause kidney damage in otherwise healthy adult cats, particularly when provided in highly bioavailable forms and when the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is low. For cats that have chronic kidney disease (CKD), phosphorus is the most important mineral in its pathogenesis and morbidity. As the disease progresses, elevated phosphorus may increase the risk of complications such as soft tissue mineralization, which can lead to a further decrease in renal function. Additionally, the hormones secreted in response to increased circulating phosphorus have harmful effects, such as bone resorption, and can cause cardiovascular pathology. Very low phosphorus diets can also be problematic in cats with early CKD, potentially leading to hypercalcemia. Clinical challenges: There is currently a lack of maximum safety limits for dietary phosphorus in accepted nutritional guidelines in North American and Europe, which makes it difficult to assess the safety of some higher phosphorus cat foods. Additionally, information regarding phosphorus bioavailability is unknown for many diets and there are no commercially available tests. Similarly, there is no consensus regarding phosphorus requirement and recommended intake in cats with International Renal Interest Society stage 1-4 CKD despite there being targets for serum phosphorus. Aims: This review evaluates dietary phosphorus in healthy cats and cats with renal disease, and describes how newer research is informing evolving clinical approaches in feline nutrition. Audience: The article is aimed at general practitioners, internal medicine specialists and veterinary nutritionists. Evidence base: Information provided in this article is drawn from the published literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poultry farmers around the world utilize antibiotics, albeit indiscriminately, for both preventive and curative purposes. This study assessed tetracycline residues in chicken sampled from 4 poultry farms in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State, Nigeria. Liver, kidney, muscle and gizzard tissues were analyzed using High performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) for tetracycline, oxytetracycline and doxycycline residues. All samples reported residue levels within the WHO/FAO Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) except for the liver sample in Farm 1 which was 895.04 µg/kg. Doxycycline recorded the least residue level within the range of 1.67 µg/kg to 9.30 µg/kg, while oxytetracycline and tetracycline recorded residue levels within the ranges of 1.671µg/kg to 98.662µg/kg and 0.886 to 895.037 µg/kg respectively. These results are indicative of the susceptibility of consumers to health hazards arising from antibiotic residues. It is therefore pertinent for Regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with effective and sustainable agricultural practices such as antibiotics withdrawal periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Despite the widespread availability of both pharmacological and lifestyle therapeutic options, blood pressure control rates across the globe are worsening. In fact, only 23% of individuals with high blood pressure in the United States achieve treatment goals. In 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration approved renal denervation, a catheter-based procedure that ablates the renal sympathetic nerves, as an adjunctive treatment for patients in whom lifestyle modifications and antihypertensive medications do not adequately control blood pressure. This approval followed the publication of multiple randomized clinical studies using rigorous trial designs, all incorporating renal angiogram as the sham control. Most but not all of the new generation of trials reached their primary end point, demonstrating modest efficacy of renal denervation in lowering blood pressure across a spectrum of hypertension, from mild to truly resistant. Individual patient responses vary, and further research is needed to identify those who may benefit most. The initial safety profile appears favorable, and multiple ongoing studies are assessing longer-term efficacy and safety. Multidisciplinary teams that include hypertension specialists and adequately trained proceduralists are crucial to ensure that referrals are made appropriately with full consideration of the potential risks and benefits. Incorporating patient preferences and engaging in shared decision-making conversations will help patients make the best decisions given their individual circumstances. Although further research is clearly needed, renal denervation presents a novel treatment strategy for patients with uncontrolled blood pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Although the concept of the intrarenal renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in renal disease is well-described in the literature, the precise pathogenic role and mechanism of this local system have not been directly assessed in the absence of confounding influence from the systemic RAS. The present study used novel mouse models of collecting duct (CD)--specific deletion of (pro)renin receptor (PRR) or renin together with pharmacological inhibition of soluble PRR production to unravel the precise contribution of the intrarenal RAS to renal injury induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction. METHODS: We examined the impact of CD-specific deletion of PRR, CD-specific deletion of renin, and S1P (site-1 protease) inhibitor PF429242 treatment on renal fibrosis and inflammation and the indices of the intrarenal RAS in a mouse model of unilateral ureteral obstruction. RESULTS: After 3 days of unilateral ureteral obstruction, the indices of the intrarenal RAS including the renal medullary renin content, activity and mRNA expression, and Ang (angiotensin) II content in obstructed kidneys of floxed mice were all increased. That effect was reversed with CD-specific deletion of PRR, CD-specific deletion of renin, and PF429242 treatment, accompanied by consistent improvement in renal fibrosis and inflammation. On the other hand, renal cortical renin levels were unaffected by unilateral ureteral obstruction, irrespective of the genotype. Similar results were obtained via pharmacological inhibition of S1P, the key protease for the generation of soluble PRR. CONCLUSIONS: Our results reveal that PRR-dependent/soluble PRR--dependent activation of CD renin represents a key determinant of the intrarenal RAS and, thus, obstruction-induced renal inflammation and fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the role of 20-HETE, a metabolite of arachidonic acid, in hypertension. Genetic studies and animal models have shown that 20-HETE is associated with hypertension, but the exact mechanisms are not fully understood. The study also highlights the link between mutations in certain genes that inhibit the production of 20-HETE and various health conditions such as hypertension, stroke, kidney disease, and cognitive dysfunction. However, conflicting findings regarding the effects of 20-HETE on blood pressure regulation suggest that further research is needed to fully understand its role in hypertension. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: Metastatic tumors of the kidney are quite rare. In this study, we aimed to increase awareness by discussing the clinicopathological data of our cases in the context of the literature. Material and Methods: A total of 760 cases, subjected to trucut biopsy or resection, were examined. The primary diagnoses, clinical, and histopathological features of the cases were investigated. Results: The study included 60 trucut and 700 partial/radical nephrectomy cases, with metastasis to the kidney detected in 24 cases. The most common primary organ was the lung, with less frequent cases from lymph nodes, skin, breast, nasal sinus, gall bladder, pleura, prostate, colon, esophagus, stomach, and ovary. Most tumors were of epithelial origin. The majority of the cases were solitary and endophytic in appearance. Kidney metastasis occurred at a median of 36 (2-123) months after the primary diagnosis. The median survival time after kidney metastasis was 8 (1-90) months. Conclusion: In this study, detailed demographic and pathological data of cases metastasizing to the kidney were documented. Although the rate of metastatic tumors in the kidney is low, even in solitary and endophytic appearances, the possibility of metastasis should be considered, especially in elderly patients, and confirmed with histopathological findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffusion measurements in the kidney are affected not only by renal microstructure but also by physiological processes (i.e., glomerular filtration, water reabsorption, and urine formation). Because of the superposition of passive tissue diffusion, blood perfusion, and tubular pre‐urine flow, the limitations of the monoexponential apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) model in assessing pathophysiological changes in renal tissue are becoming apparent and motivate the development of more advanced diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) variants. These approaches take advantage of the fact that the length scale probed in DWI measurements can be adjusted by experimental parameters, including diffusion‐weighting, diffusion gradient directions and diffusion time. This forms the basis by which advanced DWI models can be used to capture not only passive diffusion effects, but also microcirculation, compartmentalization, tissue anisotropy. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in the field of renal DWI. Following a short introduction on renal structure and physiology, we present the key methodological approaches for the acquisition and analysis of renal DWI data, including intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), non‐Gaussian diffusion, and hybrid IVIM‐DTI. We then briefly summarize the applications of these methods in chronic kidney disease and renal allograft dysfunction. Finally, we discuss the challenges and potential avenues for further development of renal DWI. Level of Evidence: 5 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There is growing concern of the potential damage to vital organs after long term exposure to locally formulated pesticides in rural area of Nigeria. This study was designed to assessed the effects of the individual chemical compound and their combination on the kidney and liver of rats' model. Methodology Fifty-four rats divided into six groups and three sub-groups were exposed to 25, 50 and 75% dose of each of the pesticide's LD50 for 4 h at 3 days interval in an inhalation chamber for 28 days. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin (TOT_BIL), creatinine and urea assay showed significant increase at the aforementioned doses in comparison to the control group. The red blood cell counts, hematocrit and hemoglobin concentrations were significantly altered in the rats administered varying doses of the pesticides when compared with the control. Similar result was obtained for the differential white blood cell counts. Histopathological examinations of the liver tissue of rats showed infiltrated sinusoids, traces of karypyknosis, vacuolar degeneration and microvesicular steatosis while that of the renal tissue showed glomeruli atrophy leading to widened Bowman's spaces as well as few shrunken glomeruli and varied level of degenerative tubular changes to tubular necrosis. Conclusion This study established that individual pesticides and their mixture is toxic to the liver and kidney, as evidenced by the elevated markers of renal and liver functions and distortion of the structure of both organs as revealed by their photomicrographs. Therefore, it is a matter of public health significance to regularly monitor pesticide residues in foods and humans in order to assess the food safety risk and population exposure to pesticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the production and use of nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiONP) are widespread, environmental and public health problems are associated with it. The kidney is the primary organ in excretion and is among the target organs in nanoparticle toxicity. This study aimed to compare the renal toxicity of nickel oxide (NiO) microparticles and nickel oxide nanoparticles by different routes of administration, such as oral, intraperitoneal (IP), and intravenous (IV). Seven groups were formed, with 42 male rats and six animals in each group. NiO oral (150 mg/kg), NiO IP (20 mg/kg), NiO IV (1 mg/kg), NiONP oral (150 mg/kg), NiONP IP (20 mg/kg), and NiONP IV (1 mg/kg) was administered for 21 days. After NiO and NiONP administration, a decrease in antioxidant activities and an increase in lipid peroxidation occurred in the kidney tissue of rats. Increased kidney urea, uric acid, and creatinine levels were observed. Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity and an increase in interleukin 1 beta were detected. Apoptotic markers, Bax, caspase-3, and p53 up-regulation and Bcl-2 down-regulation were observed. In addition, histopathological changes occurred in the kidney tissue. In general, it was observed that nickel oxide microparticles and nickel oxide nanoparticles cause inflammation by causing oxidative stress in the kidney tissue, and NiONP IV administration is more effective in renal toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Investigating the performance of the new Dophi™ M150E Microwave Ablation System, in terms of temperature distribution, ablation size and shape, reproducibility. Materials and Methods: The Dophi™ M150E Microwave Ablation System was tested on ex vivo liver, lung and kidney, at 6 different settings of time, power and number of MW antennas (single antenna: 50 and 100 W at 5 and 10 min; double antenna: 75 W at 5 and 10 min). The temperature distribution was recorded by Fiber Bragg Grating sensors, placed at different distances from the antennas. The ablation axes were measured and the sphericity index was calculated. Results: The standard deviation of ablation axes was < 5 mm, except at the highest energy and time setting for the lung. A maximum temperature rise of ~ 80 °C was measured. The measured ablation axes are overall comparable with the manufacture's values, especially at lower power and with one MW antenna (average maximum difference is 7 mm). The mean sphericity index of 0.95, 0.79 and 0.9 was obtained for the liver, lung and kidney, respectively, with a single antenna. With double antenna setup, the sphericity index was closer to 1 when 75 W for 10 min were used. Conclusions: Dophi™ M150E allows good reproducibility of ablation axes for all cases except in the lung at the highest energy level. With one antenna, an almost spherical ablation area for the liver and kidney was obtained. Using double antenna results in more homogeneous temperature distribution within the tissue compared to single antenna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cetacean-cultured cells are a promising tool for life science research. Most cells used in cetacean research are derived from the skin and kidneys. However, cell cultures from various organs are required for more flexible cetacean research. Primary cultures were prepared from kidney, intestinal, and lung tissues using a simple tissue fragment culture method from a striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba). Kidney and intestinal cells were mostly epithelial-like, whereas lung cells were mostly fibroblast-like. The simple tissue fragment culture method presented in this study will be useful for expanding cetacean cell resources. Culturing allogeneic cell models is expected to introduce a flexible in vitro approach to cetacean research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the growth of the food industry, fructose, the intake of which increases with food, causes obesity and metabolic syndrome. Kidney damage may develop from metabolic syndrome. Selenium (Se) participates in the structure of antioxidant enzymes and has a medicinal effect. In this work, the protective impact of Se on kidney damage produced by high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) via endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress was examined. The study comprised four groups, each consisting of ten experimental animals: control, HFCS (20%-HFCS), HFCS (20%-HFCS), + Se (0.3 mg/kg/day/po), and Se (0.3 mg/kg/day/po) alone. The duration of the experiment was 6 weeks. Kidney tissues were stained with hematoxylin and eosin for histological examination. Immunohistochemical analysis was conducted to assess TNF-α and caspase-3 levels. The spectrophotometric evaluation was performed to measure TOS (total oxidant status), TAS (total antioxidant status), and OSI (oxidative stress index) levels. The PERK, ATF4, CHOP, BCL-2, and caspase-9 gene expression levels were assessed by the RT-qPCR method. After Se treatment, histopathological abnormalities and TNF-α and caspase-3 levels in the HFCS+Se group decreased (p < 0.001). While TOS and OSI levels increased dramatically in the HFCS group, TAS values decreased significantly but improved after Se application (p < 0.001). The expression levels of the genes PERK, ATF4, CHOP, and caspase-9 were significantly lower in the HFCS group when compared to the HFCS+Se group (p < 0.05). Our findings suggest that Se may protect against ER stress, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and kidney damage caused by high-dose fructose consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the safety and effectiveness of using carbon dioxide (CO2) contrast in both supra- and infra-genicular endovascular interventions in patients with renal impairment. Material and Methods: This is a multicentric prospective observational study conducted over a period of 3 years from 2017 to 2020; the study included 114 patients presented with chronic threatening limb ischemia (CTLI) and renal impairment (lowest serum creatinine levels ≥1.3 mg/dL) for whom endovascular procedures were done using CO2 as a contrast medium. Endovascular angiography was guided by CO2 either exclusively (zero contrast) or with the aid of small amount of supplementary iodinated contrast media (ICM) injections. The qualitative assessment of the angiographic images in both supra- and infra-genicular fields were reported and scaled. Results: The qualitative diagnostic images were excellent in 86.5% in the supra-genicular and 66.5% in infra-genicular images. There were no significant changes in mean serum creatinine levels from baseline to first and fifth days post procedural (mean 1.8 mg/dL vs mean 1.9 mg/dL and mean 1.7 mg/dL). Conclusion: CO2 is a non-nephrotoxic alternative to traditional ICM that could be safely used and well tolerated during endovascular interventions for peripheral arterial disease in patients with renal impairment. Primary safety and efficacy endpoints were achieved in 100% of cases. The use of automated injector system provides adequate delivery, optimizes the dose, and avoids air contamination. For infra-genicular segment opacification, we recommend super-selective injections and some changes in angiographic techniques from contrast preparation to image post-processing. Clinical Impact: Co2 is a non-nephrotoxic alternative to traditional ICM that could be safely used and well tolerated during peripheral endovascular interventions in patients with renal impairment. The use of automated injector system would provide adequate delivery, optimizes the dose and avoids air contamination. For infra-genicular segment opacification, its recommended to use selective injection as close to the target artery as possible and some changes in angiographic techniques from contrast preparation to image post-processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To estimate the levels of serum bioavailable vitamin D in children presenting with first episode nephrotic syndrome (FENS) at diagnosis and after 4 weeks of standard steroid therapy while the child is in remission, and compare the same with age-sex matched healthy controls. Methods: We included children aged 1 month to 12 years presenting as FENS and estimated the serum calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D], parathormone, serum and urine vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) at diagnosis and after 4 weeks of standard steroid therapy while the child is in remission. We also included age-sex matched healthy controls for comparison. Bioavailable and free 25(OH)D were estimated at enrolment and at 4 weeks of therapy. Results: The mean (SD) 25(OH)D level (ng/mL) in children with FENS was 11.3 (6.1) at diagnosis and 13.6 (6.2) at 4 weeks follow-up, while the observed value in healthy controls was 16 (7) ng/mL. The median (IQR) serum VDBP level in FENS at enrolment was 223.0 (144, 305.5) µg/mL. There was significant correlation between serum VDBP and serum albumin levels (P = 0.04). At 4 weeks (remission), the median (IQR) VDBP levels increased to 554.5 (383, 644.75) µg/mL (P < 0.001). The median (IQR) free 25(OH)D levels (pg/mL) in children with FENS was 1.07 (0.8, 1.6) at enrolment and 0.53 (0.37, 0.86) at 4 weeks follow-up. The median (IQR) bioavailable vitamin D in FENS during proteinuria was 0.58 (0.4, 0.83) ng/ml, much lower as compared to controls 0.97 (0.85, 1.08) ng/mL (P < 0.001). On follow-up at 4 weeks of remission the median (IQR) bioavailable vitamin D levels increased to 0.87 (0.59, 1.42) ng/mL (P = 0.015). There was a very strong positive correlation between free vitamin D and bioavailable vitamin D (r = 0.9, P < 0.001); a strong negative correlation between serum VDBP and bioavailable vitamin D (r = − 0.69, P < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between 25 (OH)D and bioavailable vitamin D (r = 0.63, P < 0.001). Serum VDBP and serum albumin showed statistically significant positive correlation (r = 0.37, P < 0.05). Conclusion: Children with FENS are deficient in vitamin D. The free and bioavailable vitamin D levels are reduced in children with FENS during the proteinuric phase. Further studies to assess the association between bioavailable vitamin D and 25(OH)D with bone mineral density are needed in children with nephrotic syndrome to validate the utility of bioavailable vitamin D in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The kidney plays a critical role in maintaining the homeostasis of body fluid by filtration of metabolic wastes and reabsorption of nutrients. Due to the overload, a vast of energy is required through aerobic metabolism, which inevitably leads to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the kidney. Under unstressed conditions, ROS are counteracted by antioxidant systems and maintained at low levels, which are involved in signal transduction and physiological processes. Accumulating evidence indicates that the reduction–oxidation (redox) system interacts with renal tubular transport. Redox imbalance or dysfunction of tubular transport leads to renal disease. Here, we discuss the ROS and antioxidant systems in the kidney and outline the metabolic dysfunction that is a common feature of renal disease. Importantly, we describe the key molecules involved in renal tubular transport and their relationship to the redox system and, finally, summarize the impact of their dysregulation on the pathogenesis and progression of acute and chronic kidney disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe neurological condition that can cause widespread inflammation, affecting vital organs, such as the kidneys. The kidneys are essential for filtering waste and maintaining blood components. This condition poses a serious threat to the person’s life. Additionally, studies have demonstrated that the alcoholic extract of Melissa officinalis, known for its ability to protect the nervous system, may be utilized in treating neurological disorders and secondary injuries associated with these conditions. This study investigates the effects of the alcoholic extract of M. officinalis on histological changes in kidney tissue and the expression of apoptosis-related genes (Bax, Bcl-2, and CASP3) in rats with SCI. Methods: A total of 36 male Wistar rats, weighing between 225 and 250 g, were separated into four different groups for the experiment as follows: a control group (undergoing laminectomy), an SCI group, and two groups that received treatment with an alcoholic extract of the M. officinalis plant at doses of 100 and 150 mg/kg. The rats underwent SCI using the contusion method. Subsequently, 24 h after the injury, the plant extract was given once daily for 4 weeks. Kidney tissue samples were stained with hematoxylin-eosin for histomorphometric evaluation, and changes in gene expression were assessed using quantitative real-time ​polymerase chain reaction. Results: The concentrated form of the M. officinalis plant boosted the production of CASP3, Bax, and the inflammatory factor TNF-α and decreased the expression of the Bcl-2 gene. It also enhanced the structural and tissue alterations caused by SCI in the kidney tissue, improving kidney function for individuals with spinal cord injuries. Conclusion: The concentrated liquid from the M. officinalis plant can serve as a medicinal remedy for people with spinal cord injuries, and it may also enhance kidney function in those with similar injuries.

Abstract Background The outcome of kidney transplant recipients with a history of complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy (cTMA) and those who develop post-transplant de novo TMA (dnTMA) is largely unknown. Methods We retrospectively studied all kidney transplant recipients with end-stage kidney disease secondary to cTMA and those who developed dnTMA, between Jan 2000 and Dec 2020 in our center. Results We identified 134 patients, 22 with cTMA and 112 had dnTMA. Patients with cTMA were younger at the time of TMA diagnosis (age at diagnosis, 28.9 ± 16.3. vs 46.5 ± 16.0 years; P

Renal ischemia reperfusion injury refers to a pathophysiological phenomenon that aggravates the degree of renal injury due to the restoration of blood supply after transient ischemia of renal tissue. It has been found that renal tubular cell-derived exosomes alleviate renal ischemia reperfusion injury through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, inhibition of apoptosis, promotion of tissue regeneration and activation of autophagy . This review will discuss the protective effect of tubular cell-derived exosomes on renal ischemia reperfusion injury, in order to provide a theoretical basis for the clinical diagnosis, treatment and early prevention of renal ischemia reperfusion injury.

Kidney disease has emerged as a significant global health issue, projected to become the fifth-leading cause of years of life lost by 2040. The kidneys, being highly radiosensitive, are vulnerable to damage from various forms of radiation, including gamma (γ) and X-rays. However, the effects of electron radiation on renal tissues remain poorly understood. Given the localized energy deposition of electron beams, this study seeks to investigate the dose-dependent morphological and molecular changes in the kidneys following electron irradiation, aiming to address the gap in knowledge regarding its impact on renal structures. The primary aim of this study is to conduct a detailed morphological and molecular analysis of the kidneys following localized electron irradiation at different doses, to better understand the dose-dependent effects on renal tissue structure and function in an experimental model. Male Wistar rats (n = 75) were divided into five groups, including a control group and four experimental groups receiving 2, 4, 6, or 8 Gray (Gy) of localized electron irradiation to the kidneys. Biochemical markers of inflammation (interleukin-1 beta [IL-1β], interleukin-6 [IL-6], interleukin-10 [IL-10], tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α]) and oxidative stress (malondialdehyde [MDA], superoxide dismutase [SOD], glutathione [GSH]) were measured, and morphological changes were assessed using histological and immunohistochemical techniques (TUNEL assay, caspase-3). The study revealed a significant dose-dependent increase in oxidative stress, inflammation, and renal tissue damage. Higher doses of irradiation resulted in increased apoptosis, early stages of fibrosis (at high doses), and morphological changes in renal tissue. This study highlights the dose-dependent effects of electrons on renal structures, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the dosage in clinical use to minimize adverse effects on renal function.

Abstract The regulation of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of sepsis-induced acute kidney injury (SI-AKI). Nevertheless, the specific roles of individual lncRNAs in this process remain unclear. This study investigated the expression of lncRNA AP001007 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced HK-2 cells and in the peripheral blood of sepsis patients. The result shows that LPS treatment downregulated the expression of AP001007 in HK-2 cells and that circulating levels of AP001007 were lower in sepsis patients. Furthermore, overexpressing AP001007 in HK-2 cells improved cell viability, mitochondrial activity, and survival when exposed to LPS. Additionally, LPS-treated HK-2 cells secreted fewer pro-inflammatory cytokines when AP001007 was overexpressed. Similar protective effects were observed in human kidney organoids (HKOs) subjected to LPS. These findings suggest that AP001007 confers protection against LPS-induced damage in HK-2 cells and HKOs, highlighting its potential as a regulator of SI-AKI.

Abstract Background Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a lipid mediator with diverse biological functions through its receptors on the cell membrane. As one of the six LPA receptors, LPA receptor 3 (LPAR3) is highly expressed in mouse kidneys, but its physiological function in the kidney has been poorly explored. Methods Wild-type (WT) and Lpar3 −/− mice were used to investigate the renal physiological function of LPAR3 under hypoxia. The expression levels of LPA receptors in the kidneys of WT mice with or without exposure to hypoxia (8% O2) were detected by RT‒qPCR. RNA sequencing analysis was performed to identify differences in gene expression profiles between the hypoxic kidneys of WT and Lpar3 −/− mice. The effects of LPAR3 deficiency and treatment with the LPAR1/3 inhibitor Ki16425 or the LPAR3 selective agonist 2S-OMPT on erythropoietin (EPO) production in the kidneys of hypoxic mice were determined by RT‒qPCR and ELISAs. The mechanism of LPAR3-mediated regulation of EPO expression was further studied in vivo with mouse models and in vitro with cultured human cells. Results LPAR3 is the major LPA receptor in mouse kidneys, and its expression is significantly upregulated under hypoxic conditions. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that, compared with WT mice, Lpar3 −/− mice presented a significant decrease in hypoxia-induced EPO expression in the kidney, together with reduced plasma EPO levels and lower hematocrit and hemoglobin levels. Hypoxic renal EPO expression in WT mice was diminished by the administration of the LPAR1/3 inhibitor Ki16425 and increased by 2S-OMPT, a selective agonist of LPAR3. Hypoxia-induced HIF-2α accumulation in mouse kidneys was impaired by LPAR3 deficiency. Further studies revealed that the PI3K/Akt pathway participated in the regulation of HIF-2α accumulation and EPO expression by LPAR3 under hypoxic conditions. Conclusions Our study revealed the role of LPAR3 in promoting the HIF-2α‒EPO axis in hypoxic mouse kidneys, suggesting that the LPA receptor may serve as a novel potential pharmaceutical target to regulate renal EPO production in hypoxia-related situations, such as chronic kidney disease and altitude disease.

This study aims to assess the diagnostic and treatment methods used in ancient sources for urinary tract infections and to discuss some ancient practices that are reminiscent of the methods used by modern medicine with an analogy-based approach. As remains of ancient soft tissue diseases have not survived until the present day, our knowledge on this topic is limited primarily to knowledge conveyed by ancient authors being interested in community health, namely by Hippocrates (460-370 BC), Celsus (25 BC-50 AD), Pliny the Elder (23-65 AD), Dioscorides (MS 40-90), Rufus (1st-2nd century AD), Aretaeus (2nd century AD), and Galenos (129-216 AD). The study used the document analysis method, which involved analyzing original traditional medical texts, literary and historical works, and modern sources documenting the treatment of patients with urinary system disorders. It has been concluded that conservative treatments for urinary system diseases in antiquity resemble certain approaches found in the modern medical literature. The evaluations reveal that diagnosis and treatment information on urinary system disease have ancient Mesopotamia roots and findings pointing to a correlation between the kidneys and heart in ancient Egyptian civilization. Similarly, it was established that kidney disease and Diabetes Mellitus were considered interconnected in the Greek and Roman periods. Again, data regarding diagnosis and prognosis reminiscent of disorders defined as alkaptonuria, proteinuria, and urinary retention in modern medicine were encountered.