Clinical Phenotypes of Dual Kidney Transplant Recipients in the United States as Identified through Machine Learning Consensus Clustering

Background and Objectives: Our study aimed to cluster dual kidney transplant recipients using an unsupervised machine learning approach to characterize donors and recipients better and to compare the survival outcomes across these various clusters. Materials and Methods: We performed consensus cluster analysis based on recipient-, donor-, and transplant-related characteristics in 2821 dual kidney transplant recipients from 2010 to 2019 in the OPTN/UNOS database. We determined the important characteristics of each assigned cluster and compared the post-transplant outcomes between clusters. Results: Two clinically distinct clusters were identified by consensus cluster analysis. Cluster 1 patients was characterized by younger patients (mean recipient age 49 ± 13 years) who received dual kidney transplant from pediatric (mean donor age 3 ± 8 years) non-expanded criteria deceased donor (100% non-ECD). In contrast, Cluster 2 patients were characterized by older patients (mean recipient age 63 ± 9 years) who received dual kidney transplant from adult (mean donor age 59 ± 11 years) donor with high kidney donor profile index (KDPI) score (59% had KDPI ≥ 85). Cluster 1 had higher patient survival (98.0% vs. 94.6% at 1 year, and 92.1% vs. 76.3% at 5 years), and lower acute rejection (4.2% vs. 6.1% within 1 year), when compared to cluster 2. Death-censored graft survival was comparable between two groups (93.5% vs. 94.9% at 1 year, and 89.2% vs. 84.8% at 5 years). Conclusions: In summary, DKT in the United States remains uncommon. Two clusters, based on specific recipient and donor characteristics, were identified through an unsupervised machine learning approach. Despite varying differences in donor and recipient age between the two clusters, death-censored graft survival was excellent and comparable. Broader utilization of DKT from high KDPI kidneys and pediatric en bloc kidneys should be encouraged to better address the ongoing organ shortage

Efficacy of extracorporeal plasma therapy for adult native kidney patients with Primary FSGS: a Systematic review

AbstractPurpose This study aimed to assess efficacy of extracorporeal plasma therapy (EPT), including plasmapheresis (PE), immunoadsorption (IA), low-density lipoprotein apheresis (LDL-A), and lymphocytapheresis (LCAP) for adult native kidney patients with primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).Methods A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Databases through August 2022. Studies that reported outcomes of EPT in adult native kidneys with primary FSGS were enrolled.Results 18 studies with 104 therapy-resistant or refractory primary native FSGS patients were identified. Overall EPT response rate was 56%, with long-term benefit of 46%. Of the 101 non-hemodialysis (HD) patients, 54% achieved remission, with 30% complete remission (CR) and 23% partial remission (PR). Of 31 patients with PE, response rate was 65%; CR and PR rates were 27% and 37% in 30 non-HD patients. Of 61 patients with LDL-A, the response rate was 54%; CR and PR rates were 41% and 3% in 29 non-HD patients. Of 10 patients with IA, response rate was 40%. Of 2 patients with LCAP, 1 achieved CR, and one developed renal failure. All 3 HD patients showed increase in urine output and gradual decrease in urine protein excretion following PE (n = 1) or LDL-A (n = 2). 2 of 3 HD patients ultimately discontinued dialysis.Conclusion EPT with immunosuppressive therapy showed benefit in some patients with refractory primary FSGS, and PE appeared to have a higher response rate

Effects of Mediterranean Diet, DASH Diet, and Plant-Based Diet on Outcomes among End Stage Kidney Disease Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The Mediterranean, Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and plant-based diets may provide cardiovascular benefit to the general population. However, data on their effect on end stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients are limited. This systematic review aims to assess the impact of Mediterranean, DASH, and plant-based diets on outcomes among ESKD patients. Methods: A literature review was conducted in EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane databases from inception through September 2022 to identify studies that assess the clinical outcomes of Mediterranean, DASH, or plant-based diets on ESKD patients on hemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis (PD). Effect estimates from the individual studies were derived utilizing the random-effect, generic inverse variance approach of DerSimonian and Laird. Results: Seven studies with 9400 ESKD patients (8395 HD and 1005 PD) met the eligibility criteria and were included in the data analysis. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) of mortality for ESKD patients who adhered to the Mediterranean versus plant-based diet were 0.49 (95% CI: 0.07–3.54; two studies, I2 = 67%) and 0.87 (95% CI: 0.75–1.01; two studies, I2 = 0%), respectively. Data on mortality for ESKD patients on a DASH diet were limited to one study with an OR of 1.00 (95% CI: 0.89–1.12). The pooled OR of cardiovascular mortality among ESKD patients who adhered to a plant-based diet was 0.86 (95% CI: 0.68–1.08; two studies, I2 = 0%), compared to those who did not. Data on cardiovascular mortality among those with Mediterranean and DASH diet were limited to one study with ORs of 1.14 (95% CI: 0.90–1.43) and 1.19 (95% CI: 0.99–1.43), respectively. Mediterranean diet adherence was found to be associated with reduced risk of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) with an OR of 0.82 (95% CI: 0.68–0.99) in a study including 127 ESKD patients. The risk of hyperkalemia was not significant among those with a plant-based diet with an OR of 1.00 (95% CI: 0.94–1.07) in a study including 150 ESKD patients. Conclusions: While our systematic review demonstrated no significant associations of Mediterranean, DASH, and plant-based diets with reduced all-cause mortality or cardiovascular mortality, there was also no evidence that suggested harmful effects of these diets to ESKD patients

Effects of Mediterranean Diet, DASH Diet, and Plant-Based Diet on Outcomes among End Stage Kidney Disease Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The Mediterranean, Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and plant-based diets may provide cardiovascular benefit to the general population. However, data on their effect on end stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients are limited. This systematic review aims to assess the impact of Mediterranean, DASH, and plant-based diets on outcomes among ESKD patients. Methods: A literature review was conducted in EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane databases from inception through September 2022 to identify studies that assess the clinical outcomes of Mediterranean, DASH, or plant-based diets on ESKD patients on hemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis (PD). Effect estimates from the individual studies were derived utilizing the random-effect, generic inverse variance approach of DerSimonian and Laird. Results: Seven studies with 9400 ESKD patients (8395 HD and 1005 PD) met the eligibility criteria and were included in the data analysis. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) of mortality for ESKD patients who adhered to the Mediterranean versus plant-based diet were 0.49 (95% CI: 0.07–3.54; two studies, I2 = 67%) and 0.87 (95% CI: 0.75–1.01; two studies, I2 = 0%), respectively. Data on mortality for ESKD patients on a DASH diet were limited to one study with an OR of 1.00 (95% CI: 0.89–1.12). The pooled OR of cardiovascular mortality among ESKD patients who adhered to a plant-based diet was 0.86 (95% CI: 0.68–1.08; two studies, I2 = 0%), compared to those who did not. Data on cardiovascular mortality among those with Mediterranean and DASH diet were limited to one study with ORs of 1.14 (95% CI: 0.90–1.43) and 1.19 (95% CI: 0.99–1.43), respectively. Mediterranean diet adherence was found to be associated with reduced risk of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) with an OR of 0.82 (95% CI: 0.68–0.99) in a study including 127 ESKD patients. The risk of hyperkalemia was not significant among those with a plant-based diet with an OR of 1.00 (95% CI: 0.94–1.07) in a study including 150 ESKD patients. Conclusions: While our systematic review demonstrated no significant associations of Mediterranean, DASH, and plant-based diets with reduced all-cause mortality or cardiovascular mortality, there was also no evidence that suggested harmful effects of these diets to ESKD patients

Potential drug-drug interactions of frequently prescribed medications in long COVID detected by two electronic databases.

Infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) leads to a wide range of acute and chronic complications including long COVID, a well-known chronic sequela. Long COVID often necessitates long-term treatment, which may lead to an increased potential for drug-drug interactions (DDIs). The objective of this study was to assess potential DDIs among frequently prescribed medications in long COVID by using two electronic databases. Sixty frequently prescribed agents were selected from Thailand's National List of Essential Medicine 2022 for potential DDI analysis by Micromedex and Drugs.com. From these databases, 488 potential DDIs were identified. There were 271 and 434 DDI pairs based on Micromedex and Drugs.com, respectively. Among these DDIs, 77 pairs were labeled as contraindicated or major by both databases. The most common mechanisms for these serious interactions are cytochrome P450 (CYP) inhibition (45%), CYP induction (19%), and QT interval prolongation (7.8%). Based on Fleiss' kappa (0.073), there was only slight agreement of the DDI severity classifications between these two databases. In conclusion, a large number of potential DDIs were detected among frequently prescribed medications for long COVID. Health care providers should be aware of these DDIs, particularly those that are deemed as contraindicated or major. These DDIs are most likely to cause significant adverse events in patients with long COVID because polypharmacy is common

Additional file 1 of Phenotypic subtypes of fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis identified by machine learning consensus clustering analysis

Supplementary Material

Impact of Antifibrotic Treatment on Postoperative Complications in Patients with Interstitial Lung Diseases Undergoing Lung Transplantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Antifibrotic treatment has been approved for reducing disease progression in fibrotic interstitial lung disease (ILD). As a result of increased bleeding risk, some experts suggest cessation of antifibrotics prior to lung transplantation (LT). However, extensive knowledge regarding the impact of antifibrotic treatment on postoperative complications remains unclear. We performed a comprehensive search of several databases from their inception through to 30 September 2021. Original studies were included in the final analysis if they compared postoperative complications, including surgical wound dehiscence, anastomosis complication, bleeding complications, and primary graft dysfunction, between those with and without antifibrotic treatment undergoing LT. Of 563 retrieved studies, 6 studies were included in the final analysis. A total of 543 ILD patients completing LT were included, with 161 patients continuing antifibrotic treatment up to the time of LT and 382 without prior treatment. Antifibrotic treatment was not significantly associated with surgical wound dehiscence (RR 1.05; 95% CI, 0.31–3.60; I2 = 0%), anastomotic complications (RR 0.88; 95% CI, 0.37–2.12; I2 = 31%), bleeding complications (RR 0.76; 95% CI, 0.33–1.76; I2 = 0%), or primary graft dysfunction (RR 0.87; 95% CI, 0.59–1.29; I2 = 0%). Finally, continuing antifibrotic treatment prior to LT was not significantly associated with decreased 1-year mortality (RR 0.80; 95% CI, 0.41–1.58; I2 = 0%). Our study suggests a similar risk of postoperative complications in ILD patients undergoing LT who received antifibrotic treatment compared to those not on antifibrotic therapy

Ethical Implications of Chatbot Utilization in Nephrology

This comprehensive critical review critically examines the ethical implications associated with integrating chatbots into nephrology, aiming to identify concerns, propose policies, and offer potential solutions. Acknowledging the transformative potential of chatbots in healthcare, responsible implementation guided by ethical considerations is of the utmost importance. The review underscores the significance of establishing robust guidelines for data collection, storage, and sharing to safeguard privacy and ensure data security. Future research should prioritize defining appropriate levels of data access, exploring anonymization techniques, and implementing encryption methods. Transparent data usage practices and obtaining informed consent are fundamental ethical considerations. Effective security measures, including encryption technologies and secure data transmission protocols, are indispensable for maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of patient data. To address potential biases and discrimination, the review suggests regular algorithm reviews, diversity strategies, and ongoing monitoring. Enhancing the clarity of chatbot capabilities, developing user-friendly interfaces, and establishing explicit consent procedures are essential for informed consent. Striking a balance between automation and human intervention is vital to preserve the doctor–patient relationship. Cultural sensitivity and multilingual support should be considered through chatbot training. To ensure ethical chatbot utilization in nephrology, it is imperative to prioritize the development of comprehensive ethical frameworks encompassing data handling, security, bias mitigation, informed consent, and collaboration. Continuous research and innovation in this field are crucial for maximizing the potential of chatbot technology and ultimately improving patient outcomes

Efficacy and Safety of Plasma Exchange as an Adjunctive Therapy for Rapidly Progressive IgA Nephropathy and Henoch-Schönlein Purpura Nephritis: A Systematic Review

Patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN), including Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSP), who present with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) have a poor prognosis despite aggressive immunosuppressive therapy. The utility of plasmapheresis/plasma exchange (PLEX) for IgAN/HSP is not well established. This systematic review aims to assess the efficacy of PLEX for IgAN and HSP patients with RPGN. A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and through Cochrane Database from inception through September 2022. Studies that reported outcomes of PLEX in IgAN or HSP patients with RPGN were enrolled. The protocol for this systematic review is registered with PROSPERO (no. CRD42022356411). The researchers systematically reviewed 38 articles (29 case reports and 9 case series articles) with a total of 102 RPGN patients (64 (62.8%) had IgAN and 38 (37.2%) had HSP). The mean age was 25 years and 69% were males. There was no specific PLEX regimen utilized in these studies, but most patients received at least 3 PLEX sessions that were titrated based on the patient’s response/kidney recovery. The number of PLEX sessions ranged from 3 to 18, and patients additionally received steroids and immunosuppressive treatment (61.6% of patients received cyclophosphamide). Follow-up time ranged from 1 to 120 months, with the majority being followed for at least 2 months after PLEX. Among IgAN patients treated with PLEX, 42.1% (n = 27/64) achieved remission; 20.3% (n = 13/64) achieved complete remission (CR) and 18.7% (n = 12/64) partial remission (PR). 60.9% (n = 39/64) progressed to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Among HSP patients treated with PLEX, 76.3% (n = 29/38) achieved remission; of these, 68.4% (n = 26/38) achieved CR and 7.8% achieved (n = 3/38) PR. 23.6% (n = 9/38) progressed to ESKD. Among kidney transplant patients, 20% (n = 1/5) achieved remission and 80% (n = 4/5) progressed to ESKD. Adjunctive plasmapheresis/plasma exchange with immunosuppressive therapy showed benefits in some HSP patients with RPGN and possible benefits in IgAN patients with RPGN. Future prospective, multi-center, randomized clinical studies are needed to corroborate this systematic review’s findings

Contrast-Induced Encephalopathy in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and End-Stage Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Contrast-induced encephalopathy (CIE) is an infrequent but serious neurological condition that occurs shortly after the administration of contrast during endovascular and angiography procedures. Patients suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) are considered to be at a higher risk of contrast medium neurotoxicity, due to the delayed elimination of the contrast medium. However, the occurrence and characteristics of CIE in CKD/ESKD patients have not been extensively investigated. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature search, utilizing databases such as MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, up to September 2022. The purpose was to identify documented cases of CIE among patients with CKD or ESKD. Employing a random-effects model, we calculated the pooled incidence and odds ratio (OR) of CIE in CKD/ESKD patients. Results: Our search yielded a total of eleven articles, comprising nine case reports and two observational studies. Among these studies, 2 CKD patients and 12 ESKD patients with CIE were identified. The majority of the CKD/ESKD patients with CIE (93%) had undergone intra-arterial contrast media and/or endovascular procedures to diagnose acute cerebrovascular disease, coronary artery disease, and peripheral artery disease. The male-to-female ratio was 64%, and the median age was 63 years (with an interquartile range of 55 to 68 years). In the two observational studies, the incidence of CIE was found to be 6.8% in CKD patients and 37.5% in ESKD patients, resulting in a pooled incidence of 16.4% (95% CI, 2.4%–60.7%) among the CKD/ESKD patients. Notably, CKD and ESKD were significantly associated with an increased risk of CIE, with ORs of 5.77 (95% CI, 1.37–24.3) and 223.5 (95% CI, 30.44–1641.01), respectively. The overall pooled OR for CIE in CKD/ESKD patients was 32.9 (95% CI, 0.89–1226.44). Although dialysis prior to contrast exposure did not prevent CIE, approximately 92% of CIE cases experienced recovery after undergoing dialysis following contrast exposure. However, the effectiveness of dialysis on CIE recovery remained uncertain, as there was no control group for comparison. Conclusions: In summary, our study indicates an association between CIE and CKD/ESKD. While patients with CIE showed signs of recovery after dialysis, further investigations are necessary, especially considering the lack of a control group, which made the effects of dialysis on CIE recovery uncertain