Malnutrition and inflammation are associated with severity of depressive and cognitive symptoms of old patients affected by chronic kidney disease

Association between RAR and the prevalence and prognosis of depression: A population-based study

BACKGROUND

Depression has become a significant public health issue. The red blood cell distribution width to albumin ratio (RAR) is regarded as a reliable marker of inflammation and nutritional status, yet the association between them remains unknown. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the association between RAR and depression.

METHODS

28,737 participants were included in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005-2018. The weighted multivariate logistic regression and Cox regression explored the relationship between RAR and the prevalence and mortality of depression. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) detected nonlinear relationships and threshold effects. The stratified analysis explored potential interaction variables.

RESULTS

In the cross-sectional study, 2519 participants (7.67 %) had depression. Weighted multivariate logistic regression showed RAR was independently associated depression (OR = 1.26, 95 % CI = 1.12, 1.42, P < 0.001). In the cohort study, there were 301 cases of all-cause mortality (9.94 %) in depression population, including 77 cases of cardiovascular mortality (2.66 %). Weighted multivariate Cox regression analysis presented that RAR was related to higher all-cause mortality (HR = 1.98, 95 % CI = 1.62, 2.42, P < 0.001) and cardiovascular mortality (HR = 1.73, 95 % CI = 1.19, 2.51, P = 0.004) in the depression population. Subgroup analysis showed that RAR was consistently related to the prevalence and mortality of depression across all subgroups (all P < 0.05). RCS revealed that the relationship between RAR and depression was nonlinear (P for nonlinear = 0.011), while the association between RAR and all-cause mortality was linear (P for nonlinear = 0.245).

CONCLUSIONS

RAR is significantly associated with the prevalence and prognosis of depression. Nevertheless, more investigation is required to elucidate the underlying processes.

Nutrition, cognition and chronic kidney disease: A comprehensive review of interactions and interventions

BACKGROUND

Cognitive impairment is a prevalent complication in chronic kidney disease (CKD), ranging from mild deficits in early stages to more severe conditions, such as mild cognitive impairment and dementia in advanced stages. CKD patients exhibit reduced performance in memory, attention, language, visuospatial abilities and executive functions.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Contributing factors include uraemic toxins, structural brain changes, blood-brain barrier dysfunction, anaemia and comorbidities like diabetes mellitus. Malnutrition, affecting nearly half of CKD patients, exacerbates cognitive decline through inflammation, oxidative stress and protein-energy wasting. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in protein, vitamin D, B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, are linked to impaired cognition. Emerging evidence highlights the role of the gut-brain axis, with gut-derived uraemic toxins and microbiome alterations contributing to cognitive dysfunction. Processed foods and microplastics further compound risks by promoting inflammation and neurotoxicity. Dialysis and kidney transplantation offer opportunities for cognitive recovery, though challenges remain, particularly in haemodialysis patients. Nutritional interventions, including tailored protein intake, micronutrient supplementation and dietary counselling, are critical for mitigating cognitive decline. Addressing CKD comorbidities, such as anaemia and diabetes through targeted nutritional and pharmacological strategies, improves outcomes. Integrating psychological and social support enhances quality of life, given the high prevalence of anxiety and depression in CKD patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Future research should focus on personalized nutrition, gut microbiota modulation and routine cognitive assessments to optimise care. A holistic approach combining medical, nutritional and psychosocial strategies is essential for improving cognitive and overall health in CKD patients.

The association between cytokines and cognitive function in patients with major depressive disorder and controls

BACKGROUND

Cognitive dysfunction is a symptom of depression (MDD). While the involvement of the immune system has long been suggested to contribute to the biological underpinnings of depression, less is known about the underpinnings of cognitive dysfunction. A recent genome-wide association study pointed to genes related to immune function to be relevant for cognitive processes in depression. However, only a few studies have explored immune proteins in blood in MDD who also suffer from cognitive dysfunction. In this study we investigate associations between cognitive impairment and cytokines using a comprehensive cognitive test battery and a broad cytokine assay.

METHODS

124 patients with MDD and 69 healthy controls (HC) were recruited. To assess cognition, RBANS was used, which measures immediate and delayed memory, visual-spatial functions, language and attention. Moreover, six cytokines (IL-8, IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-10; TNF-alpha and IL-12p70) were recorded. Associations were examined by regression analyses with age, sex, education, country, group and symptom severity as covariates.

RESULTS

There is an exploratory tendency that higher cytokine levels (IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70) are associated with mostly lower cognition ("language", "visual-constructional", "attention" and "total score"). After conservative, corrected interpretation, interleukins were not statistically significant associated with poorer cognitive function.

LIMITATIONS

Despite a large sample, the unbalanced sample size is a limitation. For future studies, it is advisable to match participants based on age and gender.

CONCLUSIONS

Cognitive dysfunction could be associated with specific cytokines that underpin the contribution of the immune system, but further research is necessary.

Research progress on influencing factors and intervention methods of protein-energy wasting in maintenance hemodialysis patients: A literature review

Protein-energy wasting (PEW) has high incidence in hemodialysis patients and refers to a state of decreased protein and energy substance. With the extensive development of hemodialysis in patients with end-stage kidney disease, most patients with maintenance hemodialysis have the problem of PEW, which is one of the common complications of maintenance hemodialysis patients, resulting in decreased quality of life and increased mortality. This article searches and analyzes the literature in recent years to summarize the current influencing factors and common interventions of PEW in maintenance hemodialysis patients, which will provide reference for subsequent nutritional management of maintenance hemodialysis patients.

The Psychological, Cognitive, and Behavioural Effects of Starvation in Humans: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Research has highlighted the physical complications of starvation, but there is less research examining the psychological effects of starvation in humans.

AIMS

This scoping review synthesises literature on the non-physical effects of starvation in humans.

METHOD

Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we searched MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Global Health for studies published between 1946 and 2023 examining the non-physical effects of starvation in individuals aged 2-79 years, including those who were starved, malnourished, stunted, wasted, underweight, had a restrictive eating disorder, or were raised in famine conditions.

RESULTS

From 16,555 abstracts, 851 articles on the effects of malnutrition were reviewed, and 318 were included. Among these, 35% focused on children and adolescents, 25.5% on adults with comorbid illnesses, 17% on older adults, 13% on those with eating disorders, 6% on adults without comorbidities, and 3.5% on famine survivors. Cognitive impairments were the most frequently reported effects in children. In adults and older adults, depression and anxiety were common, along with reduced cognitive functioning, reduced quality of life, social withdrawal, impaired sleep and impaired sexual functioning. Individuals with eating disorders experienced depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, emotion regulation difficulties, and cognitive impairment.

CONCLUSIONS

There is extensive evidence showing the detrimental non-physical consequences of starvation in children and adults. These findings should inform research, clinical interventions, and educational materials addressing the effects of insufficient nutrition, including in those with restrictive eating disorders.

Transferrin levels are associated with malnutrition markers in hemodialysis patients in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

INTRODUCTION

Malnutrition is a global phenomenon and may be contributing to the increasing size of the hemodialysis (HD) population in South Africa and is affecting morbidity and clinical outcomes. Our study assessed whether transferrin could be a possible marker for malnutrition in the HD population.

METHODS

Clinical parameters (including skinfold thickness and mid-upper arm circumference [MUAC]) and laboratory markers (including transferrin and hemoglobin) were measured during a six-month period in a sample of 59 HD patients.

RESULTS

Linear regression analysis showed that MUAC (p = 0.027) as well as skinfold thickness (p = 0.021) had a significant association with transferrin levels within the HD participants. There was no significant association between transferrin levels or MUAC with hemoglobin levels (p = 0.075). Furthermore, the study found that decreased transferrin levels (< 2.15 g/dL to 3.80 g/dL) were closely related to malnutrition in the malnutrition distribution groups within the study, with 97.7% of HD participants being classified in one of the malnutrition groups.

CONCLUSION

Thus, transferrin levels are a valuable marker for malnutrition within the HD patient population and can be included along with clinical assessment parameters such as MUAC and skinfold thickness as primary indicators for malnutrition.

Independent and joint influence of depression and advanced lung cancer inflammation index on mortality among individuals with chronic kidney disease

Background

The combined effect of depression and nutritional-inflammatory status on mortality in the chronic kidney disease (CKD) population is unclear.

Methods

We prospectively analyzed 3,934 (weighted population: 22,611,423) CKD participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2007-2018). Depression and nutritional-inflammatory status were assessed with Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) and Advanced Lung Cancer Inflammation Index (ALI), respectively. Weighted multivariate COX regression models, restricted cubic splines (RCS) models, and stratified analyses were used to investigate the association of PHQ-9 scores and ALI with all-cause mortality.

Results

During a median follow-up of 5.8 years (interquartile range 3.4-8.6 years), a total of 985 patients died (25.0%). Each point increase in a patient's PHQ-9 score increased the risk of all-cause mortality by 4% (HR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.02-1.06; p < 0.001), in the full adjusted model. However, an increase in ALI levels was associated with a decreased risk. HRs (95% CI) of 0.76 (0.65-0.90), 0.70 (0.57-0.86), and 0.51 (0.41-0.64) in the Q2, Q3, and Q4 of ALI compared with the Q1 of ALI, respectively. In addition, the joint analysis showed that CKD patients without depression and with higher ALI were associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality. Namely, patients in the highest ALI group (Q4) without depression had the lowest risk (HR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.21-0.48). Furthermore, this combined effect was consistent across all subgroups, and no significant interaction was found (p > 0.05 for interaction).

Conclusion

In a nationally representative sample of US patients with CKD, coexisting depression and poorer nutrition-inflammation were associated with a significantly increased risk of all-cause mortality.

Kidney-brain axis in the pathogenesis of cognitive impairment

The kidney-brain axis is a bidirectional communication network connecting the kidneys and the brain, potentially affected by inflammation, uremic toxin, vascular injury, neuronal degeneration, and so on, leading to a range of diseases. Numerous studies emphasize the disruptions of the kidney-brain axis may contribute to the high morbidity of neurological disorders, such as cognitive impairment (CI) in the natural course of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Although the pathophysiology of the kidney-brain axis has not been fully elucidated, epidemiological data indicate that patients at all stages of CKD have a higher risk of developing CI compared with the general population. In contrast to other reviews, we mentioned some commonly used medicines in CKD that may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of CI. Revealing the pathophysiology interactions between kidney damage and brain function can reduce the potential risk of future CI. This review will deeply explore the characteristics, indicators, and potential pathophysiological mechanisms of CKD-related CI. It will provide a theoretical basis for identifying CI that progresses during CKD and ultimately prevents and treats CKD-related CI.

Clinical Factors and Biomarkers Associated with Depressive Disorders in Older Patients Affected by Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Does the Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs)/RAGE (Receptor for AGEs) System Play Any Role?

Depressive disorders are highly prevalent among subjects suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD). The aim of the present study is to evaluate clinical and biochemical factors associated with depressive disorders in a sample of older CKD patients, with a focus on advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their soluble receptors (sRAGEs). A total of 115 older subjects affected by CKD (stages 3 to 5, not in dialysis) were selected for this study. These patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of depressive disorders defined by a score ≥ 10 on the 30-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). The two groups were compared by independent sample t tests for continuous variables and χ2 tests for qualitative ones. Significant variables at univariate analyses were then inserted as predictors of a binary logistic regression model, with the presence or absence of depressive disorders as a dependent variable. The binary logistic regression model showed that patients with concomitant depressive disorders were more frequently of female gender (p < 0.01) and had lower MCP1 (p < 0.01) and AGE circulating levels (p < 0.01) than their counterparts. Depressive disorders in older CKD patients are more prevalent in women and seem to be inversely associated with systemic inflammation and circulating AGEs.

Geriatric Depression Scale predicts mortality in elderly patients on chronic hemodialysis

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to determine if the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) was predictor of mortality in elderly patients on chronic hemodialysis (HD).

METHODS

A total of 140 HD patients ≥65 years were studied. Symptoms of depression were assessed through GDS and cognitive function through the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). GDS scores 0-9 are considered normal (Group 1); scores of 10-20 (Group 2) and 21-30 (Group 3) indicate mild and severe depression.

RESULTS

Median GDS was 13 (11-15): 54 patients in Group 1, 49 in Group 2, and 37 in Group 3. After a follow-up of 58.85 ± 38.8 months, 94 patients died and 46 were alive. Kaplan-Meier survival was significantly lower in patients of Groups 2 and 3 than in Group 1 (log-rank χ2 : 101.9; DF: 2; p < 0.0001). According to Cox regression analysis, mortality was associated with age and GDS, and inversely associated with MMSE and Kt/V.

CONCLUSION

GDS predicts mortality in elderly HD patients.

Association between incident depression and clinical outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease

Background

Depression is highly prevalent and related to increased morbidity and mortality in patients on dialysis, but less is known among patients with earlier stages of CKD. This study investigated the associations between depression and clinical outcomes in patients with CKD not receiving dialysis.

Methods

We identified 157 398 adults with CKD stages 3-5 not previously diagnosed with depression from the Stockholm CREAtinine Measurements (SCREAM) project. The primary outcomes included hospitalization, CKD progression (>40% decline in eGFR, initiation of kidney replacement therapy, or death due to CKD), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; myocardial infarction, stroke, or cardiovascular death), and all-cause mortality. Survival analyses were used to estimate the associations between incident depression and adverse health outcomes, adjusting for socio-demographics, kidney disease severity, healthcare utilization, comorbidities, and concurrent use of medications.

Results

During a median follow-up of 5.1 (interquartile range: 2.3-8.5) years, 12 712 (8.1%) patients received an incident diagnosis of depression. A total of 634 471 hospitalizations (4 600 935 hospitalized days), 42 866 MACEs, and 66 635 deaths were recorded, and 9795 individuals met the criteria for CKD progression. In the multivariable-adjusted analyses, incident depression was associated with an elevated rate of hospitalized days [rate ratio: 1.77, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.71-1.83], as well as an increased rate of CKD progression [hazard ratio (HR): 1.38, 95% CI: 1.28-1.48], MACE (HR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.18-1.27), and all-cause mortality (HR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.37-1.45). The association with CKD progression was more evident after one year of depression diagnosis (HR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.36-1.59). Results were robust across a range of sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

Among patients with nondialysis-dependent CKD stages 3-5, incident depression is associated with poor prognosis, including hospitalization, CKD progression, MACE, and all-cause mortality.

Which clinical factors and biochemical parameters are associated with late-life major depression?

INTRODUCTION

Late-life major depression (MD) is a frequent and high-cost psychiatric disorder. Our purpose was to detect clinical and biological factors possibly associated with this condition to better prevent and treat it.

METHODS

We recruited 343 patients, consecutively admitted for a Major Depressive Episode to the inpatient clinic of Policlinico of Milan and ASST Monza, Italy. A large set of clinical and biochemical variables was collected from clinical charts. Univariate analyses were performed both dividing the sample into two groups (age < or ≥65) and considering age as a continuous quantitative variable. Regression analyses were then performed considering as independent variables only those statistically significant at univariate analyses.

RESULTS

Patients aged ≥ 65 resulted in having longer duration of illness, shorter duration of last antidepressant therapy, higher number of antidepressants assumed in the past, higher frequency of treatment-resistant depression, higher frequency of overweight/obesity and diabetes. As for biochemical parameters, patients ≥ 65 showed lower total plasmatic proteins and albumin, higher uric acid and creatinine.

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary results suggest less effectiveness of antidepressants, more susceptibility to metabolic disorders and poor nutritional status in patients with late-life depression; such aspects may consequently be taken into consideration for a proper therapeutic approach. KEY POINTSDepression in late life seems to be associated with poorer response to antidepressants;Clinicians should prefer compounds with minimal pharmacokinetic interactions and less risk of side effects including metabolic ones;The poor nutritional status and the higher risk of metabolic disorders in older patients points out the importance of proper diet and healthy lifestyle in this group of subjects;Further studies are needed to confirm the results of this research.

The relationship between neutrophil lymphocyte ratio, platelet lymphocyte ratio, and depression in dialysis patients

Chronic kidney disease is a worldwide public health issue with rising incidence, morbidity/mortality, and cost. Depression and chronic renal disease often coexist, and psychological illnesses are associated with poor results. Early identification of depression reduces morbidity and death. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are reported as practical biomarkers of inflammation and immune system activation. In this study, we aimed to determine the association of NLR and PLR with depression in dialysis patients. This study included 71 adults over 18 without known hematologic or oncologic disease, drug use, or chronic inflammatory diseases. Comorbid chronic diseases, laboratory data, and Beck depression inventory scores were prospectively recorded. A comparison of 2 groups according to the existence of depression was made, and a binomial logistic regression test was used to determine the association between the variables and the presence of depression after adjusting for confounding factors. A receiver operating curve analysis was used to differentiate groups with and without severe depression. Seventy-one patients met the study criteria, with 46 hemodialysis and 25 peritoneal dialysis patients. The majority had hypertension and diabetes mellitus, with 47.89% having minimal-minor depression and 52.11% having moderate-major depression. The 2 groups were similar regarding chronic diseases, with no significant differences in serum creatinine levels, glucose, lipid profiles, or electrolytes. However, when the NLR of the 2 groups was compared, the median was higher in patients with moderate or major depression. Multivariate analysis showed no significant differences between the groups in PLR, triglyceride to glucose ratio, and C-reactive peptide to albumin ratio. The best NLR cutoff value was 3.26, with 48.6% sensitivity, 88.2% specificity, 81.8% positive predictive value, 61.2% negative predictive value, and 67.6% test accuracy. Depression is one of the most common psychiatric conditions in dialysis patients and is linked to increased morbidity, mortality, treatment failure, expense, and hospitalization. NLR helped predict moderate-to-major depression in dialysis patients, even after controlling for confounding factors in multivariate analysis. This study indicated that an NLR successfully identified depressive groups, and patients with an NLR value >3.26 were 6.1 times more likely to have moderate or major depression.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the evidence on inflammation in depressive illness and symptoms in chronic and end-stage kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Depression affects approximately 27% of adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney failure (ESKF). Depression in this population is associated with impaired quality of life and increased mortality. The extent of inflammation and the impact on depression in CKD/ESKF is yet to be established. Through a systematic literature review and meta-analysis, we aim to understand the relationship between depression and inflammation in CKD/ESKF patients.

METHODS

We searched nine electronic databases for published studies until January 2022. Titles and abstracts were screened against inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data extraction and study quality assessment was carried out independently by two reviewers. A meta-analysis was carried out where appropriate; otherwise a narrative review of studies was completed.

RESULTS

Sixty studies met our inclusion criteria and entered the review (9481 patients included in meta-analysis). Meta-analysis of cross-sectional associations revealed significantly higher levels of pro-inflammatory biomarkers; C-reactive protein; Interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha in patients with depressive symptoms (DS) compared to patients without DS. Significantly lower levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 were found in patients with DS compared to patients without DS. Considerable heterogeneity was detected in the analysis for most inflammatory markers.

CONCLUSION

We found evidence for an association of higher levels of pro-inflammatory and lower anti-inflammatory cytokines and DS in patients with CKD/ESKF. Clinical trials are needed to investigate whether anti-inflammatory therapies will be effective in the prevention and treatment of DS in these patients with multiple comorbidities.

Inflammatory Determinants and Associated Morbidity in Hemodialysis Patients

Hemodialysis deteriorates patients' physical, metabolic, and mental status. Clinical outcomes derived from inflammation determine a worse status but are less frequently identified. The objective of the study was to identify inflammatory determinants and the effect of SNP-related serum IL-6 and IL-10 levels on associated morbidity in hemodialysis. A sample of hemodialysis patients at IMSS Regional Hospital No.46 in Guadalajara (n = 85) were tested using the Malnutrition Inflammation Score (MIS) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) to assess the associated morbidity. Serum cytokine levels were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) technique was used for analysis of IL-6-572C/G and IL-10-1082A/G. Using data visualization methods, we identified relevant determinants of inflammation. A simple regression model was constructed between predictors and targets with genotypes as covariates. Results showed malnutrition in 85.9% of patients and depressive symptoms in 50.6%. IL-10 was the most relevant inflammatory determinant, with regression coefficients (R2) between 0.05 and 0.11. The GG genotype of IL-10-1082 A/G evinced small effect on both clinical outcomes (δ of 0.35 and 0.37, respectively). Hemodialysis increases the associated morbidity, cytokines act as inflammatory determinants, and genetic variability contributes to the severity of clinical outcomes. Further studies need to refine the causal relationship between inflammation and CKD.

Malnutrition and poststroke depression in patients with ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND

Identifying high-risk patients based on modifiable clinical characteristics, such as malnutrition, is critical to intervening with these variables to reduce the risk of post-stroke depression (PSD). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of nutritional status on the risk of incident PSD and the trajectory of PSD risk.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke were recruited in this observational cohort and followed up for 1 year. Multivariate logistic regressions and multilevel mixed-effects logistic regressions with random intercepts and slopes were used to investigate the effects of nutritional indexes [the Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score, the Nutritional Risk Index (NRI), and the Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI)] and body mass index (BMI) on the risk of incident PSD and the trajectory of PSD risk over the 12-month observation period.

RESULTS

A total of 538 patients were included in the final analysis. Worsening CONUT [odds ratio (OR) = 1.36; confidence interval (CI): 1.15-1.61], NRI (OR = 0.91; CI: 0.87-0.96) and PNI (OR = 0.89; CI: 0.84-0.95) scores were significantly associated with an increased risk of incident PSD. Moderate and severe risk malnutrition statuses were associated with higher incidences of PSD regardless of the malnutrition index (CONUT, NRI or PNI). Additionally, PSD risk decreased over time with a significant two-way interaction between time and CONUT, NRI, and PNI, implying that patients with elevated exposure to malnutrition showed a slower decline in PSD risk. BMI had no significant effect on the occurrence and development of PSD.

CONCLUSION

Malnutrition, but not BMI, was associated with a higher probability of incident PSD and was more likely to lead to a slower rate of decline in PSD risk.

Association between Cognitive Impairment and Malnutrition in Hemodialysis Patients: Two Sides of the Same Coin

Cognitive impairment and malnutrition are prevalent in patients on hemodialysis (HD), and they negatively affect the outcomes of HD patients. Evidence suggests that cognitive impairment and malnutrition may be associated, but clinical studies to assess this association in HD patients are lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between cognitive impairment evaluated by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score and nutritional status evaluated by the malnutrition inflammation score (MIS) in HD patients. We enrolled 84 HD patients (44 males and 40 females; age: 75.8 years (63.5-82.7); HD vintage: 46.0 months (22.1-66.9)). The MISs identified 34 patients (40%) as malnourished; the MoCa scores identified 67 patients (80%) with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Malnourished patients had a higher prevalence of MCI compared to well-nourished patients (85% vs. 70%; p = 0.014). MoCa score and MIS were negatively correlated (rho:-0.317; p < 0.01). Our data showed a high prevalence of MCI and malnutrition in HD patients. Low MoCA scores characterized patients with high MISs, and malnutrition was a risk factor for MCI. In conclusion, it is plausible that MCI and malnutrition are linked by common sociodemographic, clinical, and biochemical risk factors rather than by a pathophysiological mechanism.

Cognition in chronic kidney disease patients: Evaluation with the Beijing version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) may undergo cognitive impairment. We aimed to explore the cognition of patients with cognitive impairment (CI) and no cognitive impairment (NCI) respectively and the effect of demographics, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), number of comorbidities (NCD), and hemoglobin on CI in Chinese patients with CKD at stage 3-5 treated by nondialysis by using the Beijing version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA-BJ). A total of 120 patients with CKD were recruited from the Department of Nephrology at the Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine at in-patient and out-patient follow up. A logistic regression model was performed to assess the effect of these variables on CI of CKD patients. The results indicated that the CI group was mainly in the decline of visuospatial and executive function, abstraction, and memory, compared with the NCI group. In addition, years of education, eGFR and NCD were found as predictors of CI of CKD patients at stage 3-5. Specifically, lower eGFR, less years of education and more comorbidities were risk predictors of CI.

High neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio is a significant predictor of depressive symptoms in maintenance hemodialysis patients: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Depression is one of the most important psychiatric disorders in chronic kidney disease patients who undergo maintenance hemodialysis (MHD). Previous studies have shown that low-grade inflammation is involved in the progression of depressive symptoms. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is an inflammatory marker that is inexpensive and easy to measure. However, the association between NLR and depression symptoms in MHD patients has not been examined.

METHODS

In this single-center, cross-sectional study, we included 160 patients undergoing MHD. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used to assess depressive symptoms. NLR was calculated as the ratio of neutrophils to lymphocytes. Multinomial logistic regression and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to examine the association between NLR and depressive symptoms in MHD patients.

RESULTS

Depressive symptoms were detected in 36.7% of the 160 MHD patients. Multinomial logistic regression showed that NLR was a significant predictor of mild (odds ratio [OR]: 1.383, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.015-1.884, p = 0.04) and moderate/moderately severe depressive symptoms (OR: 1.441, 95% CI: 1.017-2.042, p = 0.04) in MHD patients, adjusted for age, sex, Kt/V, dialysis duration, history of kidney transplantation, history of hypertension, and Charlson comorbidity index score. In addition, multivariate linear regression analysis showed that NLR was an independent influencing factor for PHQ-9 score in MHD patients, after adjusting for confounding factors.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that NLR can be used as a biomarker for predicting depressive symptoms in MHD patients.

Disease-related malnutrition in chronic kidney disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Disease-related malnutrition has complex and multifactorial pathophysiology. It is common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and has a devastating impact on morbidity and mortality. Given the rising numbers of patients diagnosed with CKD, disease-related malnutrition is an escalating clinical challenge. This review summarises current knowledge in relation to the development, screening and treatments for disease-related malnutrition in CKD.

RECENT FINDINGS

New research has identified other potential causes for the development of malnutrition in CKD, including changes in taste and smell, and effects of polypharmacy. Screening and assessment studies have investigated different tools in relation to the new Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria. Different modalities of low protein diets and the potential use of pre and probiotics are being explored. Furthermore, the importance of nutritional support, and possibly exercise during dialysis is being examined in terms of reducing anabolic resistance and catabolism.

SUMMARY

Further research is required to better understand the nuances of the pathophysiology of disease-related malnutrition in CKD. This work should inform not only consistent terminology and the application of assessment tools specific to disease-related malnutrition in CKD but also the development of novel interventions that reflect its multifaceted pathophysiology and impact.

Study on Correlation between Body Cell Mass Index and Cognitive Impairment in Hemodialysis Maintaining Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective

To investigate the relationship between body cell mass index (BCMI) and cognitive impairment in maintaining hemodialysis (MHD) patients.

Methods

We collected the general materials, laboratory indexes, and physical measurement indexes of patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis in hemodialysis centers of 20 tertiary and tertiary general hospitals in Guizhou Province from June to September 2020. The body composition was measured by bioelectrical impedance method, and the BCMI value was calculated. The subjects were divided into normal cognitive function group (score ≥27), mild cognitive impairment group (score 23-26), and severe cognitive impairment group (score <23). Two groups of people with normal cognitive function and cognitive impairment with similar baseline data (gender, age, and education) were obtained by propensity score matching (PSM).

Results

A total of 2008 subjects were included in this study, including 467 cases (23.3%) in the cognitive impairment group. A total of 814 cases were accurately matched after PSM. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the incidence risk of the BCMI Q1 group was 8.99 times higher than that of the Q4 group (95% CI: 5.74 ∼ 14.09, P < 0.001). ROC curve analysis showed that the best threshold of BCMI for predicting cognitive impairment in MHD patients was 9.05, the sensitivity and specificity were 71.5% and 62.7%, respectively, and the area under the curve was 0.713 (95% CI: 0.678 ∼ 0.748, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

BCMI is related to cognitive impairment in MHD patients and has predictive value for the onset of cognitive impairment in MHD patients.

EEG Delta/Theta Ratio and Microstate Analysis Originating Novel Biomarkers for Malnutrition-Inflammation Complex Syndrome in ESRD Patients

The Malnutrition-Inflammation Score (MIS) was initially proposed to evaluate malnutrition-inflammation complex syndrome (MICS) in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. Although MICS should be routinely evaluated to reduce the hospitalization and mortality rate of ESRD patients, the inconvenience of the MIS might limit its use. Cerebral complications in ESRD, possibly induced by MICS, were previously assessed by using spectral electroencephalography (EEG) via the delta/theta ratio and microstate analysis. Correspondingly, EEG could be used to directly assess MICS in ESRD patients, but the relationships among MICS and these EEG features remain inconclusive. Thus, we aimed to investigate the delta/theta ratio and microstates in ESRD patients with high and low risks of MICS. We also attempted to identify the correlation among the MIS, delta/theta ratio, and microstate parameters, which might clarify their relationships. To achieve these objectives, a total of forty-six ESRD subjects were willingly recruited. We collected their blood samples, MIS, and EEGs after receiving written informed consent. Sixteen women and seven men were allocated to low risk group (MIS ≤ 5, age 57.57 ± 14.88 years). Additionally, high risk group contains 15 women and 8 men (MIS > 5, age 59.13 ± 11.77 years). Here, we discovered that delta/theta ratio (p < 0.041) and most microstate parameters (p < 0.001) were significantly different between subject groups. We also found that the delta/theta ratio was not correlated with MIS but was strongly with the average microstate duration (ρ = 0.708, p < 0.001); hence, we suggested that the average microstate duration might serve as an alternative encephalopathy biomarker. Coincidentally, we noticed positive correlations for most parameters of microstates A and B (0.54 ≤ ρ ≤ 0.68, p < 0.001) and stronger negative correlations for all microstate C parameters (−0.75 ≤ ρ ≤ −0.61, p < 0.001). These findings unveiled a novel EEG biomarker, the MIC index, that could efficiently distinguish ESRD patients at high and low risk of MICS when utilized as a feature in a binary logistic regression model (accuracy of train-test split validation = 1.00). We expected that the average microstate duration and MIC index might potentially contribute to monitor ESRD patients in the future.

Differential Effects of Sleep Disturbance and Malnutrition on Late-Life Depression Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

BACKGROUND

Late-life depression is a complex phenomenon that cannot be fully understood simply as depression occurring in older adults, prompting researchers to suggest that it represents a component of geriatric syndrome. Given the inherent complexity and multifactorial nature of geriatric syndrome, understanding the interactions between the comorbid conditions involved is important for establishing appropriate preventive strategies. While sleep disturbance and malnutrition are common manifestations of geriatric syndrome, they have also been regarded as indicators of late-life depression. However, the differential effects of sleep disturbance and malnutrition on late-life depression and their interrelationships remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of sleep disturbance and malnutrition on depression and the interactions between them among community-dwelling older adults.

METHODS

Sleep disturbance and malnutrition in 1,029 community-dwelling older adults from Suwon Geriatric Mental Health Center were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), respectively. The Korean version of the Short Form of the Geriatric Depression Scale (SGDS-K) was used to evaluate depressive symptoms. Sociodemographic parameters were recorded. A multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to examine the effects of sleep and nutrition on depressive symptoms after adjusting for covariates. The effect size and conditional effects of sleep disturbance and malnutrition on late-life depression were assessed using Cohen's f² values and the Johnson-Neyman technique, respectively.

RESULTS

After possible confounders were adjusted, the SGDS-K score was positively associated with the PSQI score (standardized beta = 0.166, P < 0.001) and negatively associated with the MNA score (standardized beta = -0.480, P < 0.001). The local effect size of the associations was small for PSQI and medium for MNA. A significant interaction was observed between the PSQI and MNA scores. The result of the Johnson-Neyman technique indicated that the influence of PSQI on SGDS-K became weaker and insignificant as nutritional status worsened. However, the association between the MNA and SGDS-K scores was significant regardless of PSQI.

CONCLUSION

Both sleep disturbance and malnutrition were significantly associated with late-life depression, although malnutrition may be more critically associated with depression than sleep disturbance in community-dwelling older adults.

An extended version of the MNA-SF increases sensitivity in identifying malnutrition among community living older adults. Results from the PRONUTRISENIOR project

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) is the most used tool to assess malnutrition and/or its risk among older adults. Its Screening section was proposed as a short form (MNA-SF) but studies comparing the two forms present controversial results. Our main aims were to study the agreement between MNA-SF and its full form (MNA-FF) among Portuguese older adults living in the community and to develop a more sensible version of the MNA-SF.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study used a convenience sample of 456 older adults (54.2% females) aged 65-92 years (mean = 73; SD = 6). Data analyzed included: nutritional status (MNA), social support (Fillenbaum's Social Network Index), level of independency in daily activities (Lawton e Brody's scale) and eating-related quality of life. Both MNA-FF and MNA-SF classify participants as malnourished, at risk of malnutrition or with normal nutrition status. Anthropometric assessments (weight, height, arm and calf perimeters) were carried out and BMI was computed.

RESULTS

The agreement between the two classifications is 82.7%, but Cohen's k shows a weak agreement (weighted Cohen's k = 0.497; p < 0,001), and the sensitivity of the MNA-SF to detect malnutrition or its risk (as assessed by the MNA-FF) was 42.6% (despite a specificity of 98.8%). Participants classified as normal using the MNA-SF despite at risk using the MNA-FF present lower scores in two items from the Assessment section (number of full meals eaten daily and amount of fluid consumed per day). These were included in MNA-SF to obtain an extended short-version (MNA-SF8). The difference between the ROC curves for MNA-SF and MNA-SF8 justifies the preferential use of the MNA-SF8 with an estimated cut-off of 14 points, which showed high sensitivity (91.8%) and specificity (79.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of two items to the MNA-SF provides a more sensible tool to detect the risk of malnutrition among older adults. General eating-related questions seem relevant to assess malnutrition in this age group.

Factors Associated with Affective Symptoms and Quality of Life in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis

The aim of this study was to detect demographic and clinical factors associated with affective symptoms and quality of life in patients with severe atopic dermatitis. First, one-way analyses of variance and correlations were performed to compare a large set of qualitative and quantitative clinical variables. Three final multivariable regression models were performed, with depression/anxiety subscales and Dermatology Life Quality Index scores as dependent variables, and the factors that were statistically significant on univariate analyses as independent ones. More severe anxiety symptoms and poorer quality of life (p < 0.01) were significantly associated with more severe depressive symptoms. Female sex and disturbed sleep (p = 0.03) were significantly associated with more severe anxiety. Finally, previous treatment with cyclosporine (p = 0.03) or methotrexate (p = 0.04), more severe depressive symptoms (p < 0.01), itch (p = 0.03), impaired sleep (p < 0.01) and perceived severity of dermatological illness (p < 0.01) were significant predictors of low quality of life. This study shows a complex interplay between the severity of atopic dermatitis, poor quality of life and presence of clinically relevant affective symptoms. These results will help dermatologists to identify patients who need psychiatric consultation within the framework of a multidisciplinary approach.

The assessment of cognitive impairment in maintenance hemodialysis patients and the relationship between cognitive impairment and depressive symptoms

INTRODUCTION

Cognitive impairment and depression are common mental health problems in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients with maintenance hemodialysis (MHD). Previous studies have proven that cognitive impairment and depression were risk factors for poor prognosis in MHD patients. However, the related factors of cognitive function and the association between cognitive impairment and depression in MHD patients are still unclear. The purpose of this study is to explore the related factors affecting the cognitive function of MHD patients and evaluate the relationship between cognitive function and depression in MHD patients.

METHODS

This single-center, cross-sectional study enrolled 160 MHD patients. Cognitive function and depressive symptoms were measured using Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), respectively.

RESULTS

Cognitive impairment was detected in 58.1% of 160 MHD patients. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that age, level of education and homocysteine (HCY) were independent influencing factors of MoCA scores and the scores of attention and abstract thinking were independently correlated with PHQ-9 score after adjusting for confounding factors CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicated that age, level of education and HCY were independently associated with cognitive function, and attention and abstract thinking could independently affect depressive symptoms in MHD patients.

The Methylation of Clock Genes in Perinatal Depression: Which Role for Oxytocin?

Background: Perinatal Depression (PD) is a widespread disabling condition that is hypothesized to be associated with abnormalities in circadian rhythms and neuropeptide release including oxytocin (OXT). Methods: Fourty-four pregnant women (28 with PD, and 16 controls) were evaluated through the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), the State/Trait Anxiety Inventory Form Y (STAI-Y), and the Prenatal Attachment Inventory (PAI). A blood sample was collected from all participants, and OXT plasma levels, DNA methylation of clock genes, as well as of FOXp3 and HERV-W were measured. Linear regression analyses were performed to assess the effect of oxytocin on the methylation of selected genes. Continuous ordinal regression models was further applied to see if the score of rating scales was associated to gene methylation, adjusting for oxytocin-methylation interaction. Results: OXT plasma levels were positively associated with CRY1 methylation. Women with higher OXT plasma levels showed an association between higher degree of CRY2 methylation (thus, reduced expression) and lower EPDS (OR = 0.21; P = 0.043) and STAI-S scores (OR = 6.96; P = 0.019). Finally, with high OXT levels, hypermethylation of CRY1 was associated to higher scores on the PAI (OR = 2.74; P = 0.029) while higher methylation of HERV-W related to lower PAI scores (OR = 0.273; P = 0.019). Conclusion: Our results suggest a possible protective role played by oxytocin in the development of PD by promoting a favorable methylation profile characterized by reduced expression of CRY1 and CRY2. Moreover, oxytocin strengthens the association between maternal prenatal attachment with a favorable pattern of methylation of clock genes and HERV-W, which is essential for pregnancy outcomes.

Prevalence of mild cognitive impairment in automated peritoneal dialysis patients

BACKGROUND

Cognitive deterioration decreases quality of life, self-care and adherence to treatment, increasing mortality risk. There is scarce information of cognitive impairment in peritoneal dialysis, and data are controversial.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency and associated factors of cognitive impairment in patients on automated peritoneal dialysis (APD).

METHODS

Cross-sectional study; 71 patients on APD underwent clinical, biochemical and cognitive function evaluation by means of the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Cognitive function was also evaluated in healthy controls.

RESULTS

Mean age was 42 ± 16 years, 79% were men and dialysis vintage was 17 (7-32) months. In APD patients, cognitive impairment was present in 7% (mild deterioration) and 68% according to the MMSE and MoCA, respectively, and in 4% and 37% in the healthy controls. Patients with cognitive impairment (according to MoCA) were older, with lower educational degree, had more frequently diabetes, and higher serum glucose, as well as lower serum creatinine, phosphorus and sodium concentrations than patients with normal cognitive function. In multiple linear regression analysis, predictors for the MoCA score (R2 0.63, p = 0.002) were schooling [B = 0.54 (0.20 to 0.89), p = 0.003], age [B=-0.11 (-0.21 to -0.01), p = 0.04], serum sodium [B = 0.58 (0.05 to 1.11), p = 0.03] and creatinine concentrations [B = 3.9 (0.03 to 0.83), p = 0.03].

CONCLUSION

In this sample of APD patients with mean age in the early 40 s, the prevalence of cognitive impairment by MoCA test was 65%, and it was associated to older age, lower educational level and lower serum concentrations of sodium and creatinine.

Inhibition of CTCF-regulated miRNA-185-5p mitigates renal interstitial fibrosis of chronic kidney disease

Aim: The present study aimed to elucidate the effect of CTCF on renal interstitial fibrosis in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and underlying mechanisms. Materials & methods: We measured NPHS2 expression and investigated its function in a unilateral ureteral obstruction-induced mouse model of CKD. Results: NPHS2 was poorly expressed in CKD mice. miR-185-5p targeted NPHS2 and reduced its expression, leading to increased α-SMA and COL I/III expression, increased renal interstitial fibrosis area and elevated phosphorylated vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein/vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein ratio. Co-treatment with CTCF downregulated miR-185-5p expression and abolished its effects in the CKD model. Conclusion: CTCF suppressed miR-185-5p and upregulated its target NPHS2, with a net effect of alleviating renal interstitial fibrosis in CKD.

Acute kidney injury is associated with subtle but quantifiable neurocognitive impairments

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with long-term morbidity and mortality. The effects of AKI on neurocognitive functioning remain unknown. Our objective was to quantify neurocognitive impairment after an episode of AKI.

METHODS

Survivors of AKI were compared to age-matched controls, as well as a convenience sample of patients matched for cardiovascular risk factors with normal kidney function (active control group). Patients with AKI completed two assessments, while the active control group completed one assessment. The assessment included a standardized test: The Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), and a robotic assessment: Kinarm.

RESULTS

The cohort consisted of 21 patients with AKI, 16 of whom completed both assessments, and 21 active control patients. The majority of patients with AKI had Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes stage 3 AKI (86%), 57% received dialysis, and 43% recovered to ≤ 25% of their baseline serum creatinine by their first assessment. Compared to the RBANS, which detected little impairment, the Kinarm categorized patients as impaired in visuomotor (10/21, 48%), attention (10/20, 50%), and executive tasks (11/21, 52%) compared to healthy controls. Additionally, patients with AKI performed significantly worse in attention and visuomotor domains when compared to the active controls. Neurocognitive performance was generally not impacted by the need for dialysis or whether kidney function recovered.

CONCLUSION

Robotic technology identified quantifiable neurocognitive impairment in survivors of AKI. Deficits were noted particularly in attention, visuomotor, and executive domains. Further investigation into the downstream health consequences of these neurocognitive impairments is warranted.

Association of DRD4 exon III and 5-HTTLPR VNTR genetic polymorphisms with psychiatric symptoms in hemodialysis patients

Mental illness is prevalent among hemodialysis (HD) patients. Given that the dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways are involved in the etiology of psychiatric disease, this study evaluated the genetic association of dopamine D4 receptor (DRD4) and serotonin transporter (SLC6A4) genes with psychiatric symptom susceptibility among HD patients. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to assess anxiety and depressive symptoms among patients (n = 265). Genetic polymorphisms of DRD4 (48 bp VNTR) and SLC6A4 (5-HTTLPR VNTR and rs25531) were examined using a conventional polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique, as appropriate. Significant differences were observed in the distribution of 5-HTTLPR genotypes, SLC6A4 tri-allelic-phased genotype, and DRD4-Exon III VNTR genotypes/alleles between patients with anxiety symptoms versus those with normal/borderline conditions (p<0.05). Binary logistic regression analyses showed that the heterozygous 4,5 VNTR genotype of DRD4 was associated with a higher risk of anxiety symptoms after adjusting for other covariates (odds ratio = 4.25, p = 0.028). None of the studied polymorphisms was linked to depression in HD patients. Collectively, the current findings provide genetic clues to psychopathology in HD patients and suggest that the DRD4 exon III VNTR polymorphism is involved in the etiology of anxiety in this patient population.

The Role of Cholesterol and Fatty Acids in the Etiology and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders whose pathogenesis seems to be related to an imbalance of excitatory and inhibitory synapses, which leads to disrupted connectivity during brain development. Among the various biomarkers that have been evaluated in the last years, metabolic factors represent a bridge between genetic vulnerability and environmental aspects. In particular, cholesterol homeostasis and circulating fatty acids seem to be involved in the pathogenesis of ASDs, both through the contribute in the stabilization of cell membranes and the modulation of inflammatory factors. The purpose of the present review is to summarize the available data about the role of cholesterol and fatty acids, mainly long-chain ones, in the onset of ASDs. A bibliographic research on the main databases was performed and 36 studies were included in our review. Most of the studies document a correlation between ASDs and hypocholesterolemia, while the results concerning circulating fatty acids are less univocal. Even though further studies are necessary to confirm the available data, the metabolic biomarkers open to new treatment options such as the modulation of the lipid pattern through the diet.

Physical performance and health-related quality of life among older adults on peritoneal dialysis: a cross-sectional study

PURPOSE

Identifying performance-based tests that meaningful for patients may facilitate the implementation of rehabilitation programs. The primary aim of this study was to determine the independent associations between different performance-based tests and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among elderly peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted in China. Patients on PD who were 60 years of age or above were included. HRQoL was assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36. Physical function was determined by handgrip strength, timed up and go (TUG) test, 5-repetition sit-to-stand test, and comfortable gait speed. Depressive symptoms were measured using the self-reported Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to examine the factors influencing HRQoL.

RESULTS

In total, 115 participants with a mean age of 69.7 were included (46 women and 69 men). TUG (β =- 0.460, p < 0.001), prealbumin (β = 0.223, p = 0.014), and education level (β = 0.183, p = 0.042) were associated with physical health. GDS score (β = - 0.475, p < 0.001), serum albumin level (β = 0.264, p = 0.003), and sex (β = 0.217, p = 0.012), were associated with mental HRQoL.

CONCLUSION

TUG could be a valuable test for use in clinical practice and research aiming at facilitating tailed exercise programs, as it was associated with self-perceived physical HRQoL and could be meaningful to elderly PD patients. Depressive symptoms and nutrition were another two important rehabilitation areas for optimizing the overall HRQoL of older adults on PD.

Associations Between Cholesterol and Fatty Acid Profile on the Severity of Depression in Older Persons With Nondialysis Chronic Kidney Disease

Depressive symptoms worsen the outcomes of patients affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD). The purpose of the present article is to study the association between serum lipid profile and the severity of depression in patients with CKD. We evaluated 132 older subjects with advanced CKD (stage 3-5, not receiving dialysis) in regular follow-up in a nephrology clinic. Blood samples were collected after an overnight fast. All patients were evaluated with the Geriatric Depression Scale which is comprised of 30 items that assess the severity of depressive symptoms. A backward multivariate regression analysis was performed to study the association between lipid profile and severity of depression. Low-density lipoprotein levels (β = 2.77, P = .008) and arachidonic acid/linoleic acid ratio (β = 2.51, P = .015) were found to be significantly associated with severity of depressive symptoms. Change in dietary habits or the use of hypocholesterolemic drugs could potentially prevent depressive symptoms and ameliorate outcome of patients affected by CKD. Data from prospective studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results.

Advanced Glycation End Products (AGE) and Soluble Forms of AGE Receptor: Emerging Role as Mortality Risk Factors in CKD

Advanced glycation end-products (AGE) can promote chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression and CKD-related morbidities. The soluble receptor for AGE (sRAGE) is a potential biomarker of inflammation and oxidative stress. Here, we explored the role of AGE, glycated albumin, sRAGE and its different forms, cRAGE and esRAGE, as prognostic factors for mortality in 111 advanced CKD patients. The median follow-up time was 39 months. AGE were quantified by fluorescence, sRAGE and its forms by ELISA. Malnutrition was screened by the Malnutrition Inflammation Score (MIS). The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess the association of variables with all-cause mortality. Mean levels of sRAGE, esRAGE and cRAGE were 2318 ± 1224, 649 ± 454 and 1669 ± 901 pg/mL. The mean value of cRAGE/esRAGE was 2.82 ± 0.96. AGE were 3026 ± 766 AU and MIS 6.0 ± 4.7. eGFR correlated negatively with AGE, sRAGE, esRAGE and cRAGE, but not with cRAGE/esRAGE. Twenty-eight patients died. No difference was observed between diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Starting dialysis was not associated with enhanced risk of death. AGE, esRAGE and cRAGE/esRAGE were independently associated with all-cause mortality. AGE, esRAGE and cRAGE/esRAGE may help to stratify overall mortality risk. Implementing the clinical evaluation of CKD patients by quantifying these biomarkers can help to improve patient outcomes.

Association Between Serum Uric Acid and Depression in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease not Requiring Kidney Dialysis: Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Analyses

BACKGROUND Depression is the main problem of psycho-nephrology. We aimed to investigate clinical risk factors for depression in patients with non-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD). MATERIAL AND METHODS A non-dialysis CKD cohort study was conducted with 223 patients. Information on demographic and clinical parameters was collected at baseline. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaires were used to estimate depression and sleep quality in the patients. The questionnaires were repeated in 158 patients after 6 months. Logistic regression was performed to identify independent factors associated with depression and any longitudinal changes in BDI scores. RESULTS At baseline, 17 patients (7.72%) in the CKD cohort presented with depression. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that being female (odds ratio [OR] 0.319, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.108 to 0.944, P=0.039) and having lower levels of serum uric acid (SUA) (OR 0.675, 95% CI 0.469 to 0.970, P=0.034) were independent risk factors for depression. A decrease in PSQI score (OR 0.873, 95% CI 0.777 to 0.981, P=0.022) and an increase in SUA level (OR 1.383, 95% CI 1.115 to 1.715, P=0.003) were independently associated with decline in BDI scores in the patients in the 6-month follow-up group. CONCLUSIONS Lower SUA levels and being female were independent risk factors for depression in non-dialysis CKD patients. Improving sleep quality and increasing SUA levels may relieve depression to some extent.