Publications by authors named "U N Chikani"

Although genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors largely contribute to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk, the role of epigenetics in its pathogenesis is now well established. The epigenetic mechanisms in T2DM mainly consist of DNA methylation, histone modifications and regulation by noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). For instance, DNA methylation at CpG islands in the promoter regions of specific genes encoding insulin signaling and glucose metabolism suppresses these genes.

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Background: Recent changes across the world with respect to gender transitioning of children and adolescents have generated a bio-psycho-socio-cultural discourse among interest groups.

Aim: This study sought to examine gender dysphoric symptoms among adolescents and young persons in an African population, using a dimensional approach.

Method: A total of 747 primary/secondary school and university students aged 10-24 years were studied using the 27-item Gender Identity/Gender Dysphoria Questionnaire for Adolescents and Adults (GIDYQ-AA).

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Background: Kidney biopsy remains the best standard for kidney tissue analysis. Although percutaneous kidney biopsy is an invasive procedure, it is an indispensable part of interventional nephrology for accurate diagnosis, selection of appropriate therapy protocol, and prognostication of kidney diseases in children. With improvement in expertise among pediatric nephrologists, data on procedure outcomes are now being documented.

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Introduction: Frequent relapses and steroid dependence are common treatment challenges of steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) in children. Acute respiratory infection (ARI) is the most frequently reported trigger of relapse. Given the role of zinc supplementation in preventing ARI, some studies show that this targeted intervention may reduce relapses in childhood SSNS.

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Background: Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is the preferred mode of renal replacement therapy (RRT) in children with acute kidney injury (AKI). The gold standard remains the use of commercially-prepared PD fluid. In resource-poor nations, its availability and affordability remain a challenge.

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