Discrepancies between Cystatin C-Based and Creatinine-Based eGFR.

Background: Recent guidance suggests clinicians increase use of cystatin C for the estimation of GFR. Discrepant levels of creatinine- versus cystatin C-based eGFR (eGFRcr versus eGFRcys) can occur and might signify inaccurate estimation of GFR using creatinine alone. This study sought to enhance the knowledge of the risk factors and clinical implications of having a large eGFR discrepancy.

Anemia Prevalence, Type, and Associated Risks in a Cohort of 5.0 Million Insured Patients in the United States by Level of Kidney Function.

Rationale & Objective: Anemia is common in chronic kidney disease (CKD); although anemia is associated with adverse outcomes, the available treatments are not ideal. We characterized the burden, risk factors for, and risks associated with anemia by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and hemoglobin level.

Study Design: Cross-sectional and prospective cohort study.

High Risk of Prosthetic Valve Endocarditis and Death After Valve Replacement Operations in Dialysis Patients.

Background: Despite a high burden of dialysis access-related bloodstream infections and an increasing incidence of endocarditis, few data are available addressing the risk of prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE) in the dialysis population. We sought to assess the risk of PVE and death after valve replacement operations in patients receiving long-term dialysis.

Methods: A matched retrospective cohort study was conducted comprising patients admitted for valve replacement operations at two university hospitals.

The Validation of Nematode-Specific Acetylcholine-Gated Chloride Channels as Potential Anthelmintic Drug Targets.

New compounds are needed to treat parasitic nematode infections in humans, livestock and plants. Small molecule anthelmintics are the primary means of nematode parasite control in animals; however, widespread resistance to the currently available drug classes means control will be impossible without the introduction of new compounds. Adverse environmental effects associated with nematocides used to control plant parasitic species are also motivating the search for safer, more effective compounds.