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Empagliflozin -- kidney protection regardless of an initial 'eGFR dip'

Researchers analyzed EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial data to investigate impact of initial 'eGFR dip' on kidney outcomes. Diuretic use and higher KDIGO risk category were predictive factors for 'eGFR dip', but no significant impact on risk reduction

SourceERA – European Renal Association·DateJun 7, 2020

Certain environmental chemicals linked with poor kidney health

Researchers have discovered a link between exposure to certain environmental chemicals and an increased risk of chronic kidney disease. The study analyzed data from 46,748 US adults and found that elevated levels of seven chemicals were associated with markers of kidney disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 21, 2020
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Salt substitution could prevent almost half a million deaths from CVD in China

A nationwide intervention to replace regular salt with potassium-enriched salt substitutes in China could prevent nearly half a million cardiovascular deaths per year. The blood pressure lowering effects of salt substitution were estimated to prevent around 460,000 cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths each year.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalThe BMJ·DateApr 22, 2020

Researchers map mechanism to explain role of gene mutations in kidney disease

A study has uncovered a mechanism explaining how genetic mutations lead to nephrotic syndrome, a rare genetic kidney disorder. The researchers found that disruptions in the recycling of cell membranes cause abnormal kidney cell structure and function.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 3, 2020

Housing insecurity may increase risk of kidney disease

A study found housing insecurity is associated with a 3.2-fold higher odds of albuminuria, a sign of kidney disease, but not rapid kidney function decline. Housing insecurity was linked to delayed healthcare visits and compromised health in urban-dwelling adults.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalKidney360·DateMar 31, 2020

Insights from ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in patients with kidney disease

Researchers found that African Americans with kidney disease have higher rates of uncontrolled blood pressure when measured at home. Participants with masked hypertension had worse physical functioning than those with controlled hypertension.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 26, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Researchers link immune system to salt-sensitive hypertension in CKD

Studies have shown that chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients are more susceptible to salt-induced hypertension. A recent study published in Kidney International found a link between the immune system and salt sensitivity in CKD, with TNF-α triggering high blood pressure.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalKidney International·DateMar 3, 2020

Fine particle air pollution linked with poor kidney health

A recent study found that exposure to fine particulate matter is associated with a higher degree of albuminuria and a higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease. The study suggests that efforts to improve air quality may yield health benefits, including reducing rates of chronic kidney disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 27, 2020

Weed-derived compounds in Serbian groundwater could contribute to endemic kidney disease

Researchers have discovered that contaminated groundwater in Balkan villages is a significant source of human exposure to aristolochic acids, potent kidney toxins. The discovery highlights the urgent need for weed control measures to reduce the incidence of Balkan endemic nephropathy.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 19, 2020

New study: Chronic kidney disease a 'global killer in plain sight'

A new study reveals chronic kidney disease is a leading cause of death globally, resulting in an estimated 1.23 million deaths in 2017. The disease's impact varies widely across countries, with some nations experiencing rates nearly 15 times higher than others.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 13, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

How useful are current tools that assess the quality of kidney-related care in the US?

A comprehensive evaluation of existing quality metrics for kidney disease reveals that less than half are highly valid, with nearly half related to dialysis management. The study proposes refinements and new metrics to better reflect the spectrum of kidney care delivery, aiming to improve the accuracy of quality measurement.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 13, 2020

Kidney stem cells can be isolated from urine

Researchers have successfully isolated kidney stem cells from urine, expressing markers similar to bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells and renal stem cell markers. The isolated cells can differentiate into various kidney cell types, including proximal- and distal-tubules and podocytes.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 4, 2020

Link between chronic kidney disease and heart failure is identified in patients

Researchers identified coronary microvascular dysfunction as a precursor to later heart disease and possible death in patients with chronic kidney disease. The study found that CMD was associated with abnormal mechanics of the left ventricle and clinical risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCirculation·DateFeb 3, 2020

Study examines quality of life in patients with kidney disease in India

A new study found that between 15-22 out of every 100 Indian patients with mild-to-moderate CKD had significant impairment in at least one domain of quality of life. Lower income, poor education, and female gender were associated with lower quality of life scores.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 30, 2020

Protein levels in urine after acute kidney injury predict future loss of kidney function

High levels of protein in urine shortly after an episode of acute kidney injury are associated with increased risk of kidney disease progression. The study suggests that measuring urine protein levels can help identify patients at highest risk and guide appropriate referrals to reduce adverse health outcomes.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 28, 2020
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Histamine: an unexpected defender against heart and kidney damage

A University of Tsukuba study reveals that histamine, a key factor in inflammation, can control the severity of cardiorenal syndrome in mice. Histamine agonist drug prevents further damage in a mouse model of cardiorenal dysfunction, showing protective changes in gene expression.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2020

Many children with kidney disease may be prescribed drugs that are toxic to the kidneys

A recent study found that a significant proportion of children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are prescribed medications that may be toxic to their kidneys. Among the studied population, 71% of those with CKD and 50% without received at least one potentially nephrotoxic medication over an average follow-up period of 3.3 years.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 12, 2019

Examining muscle relaxant dose, risk of encephalopathy in patients with CKD

An observational study of nearly 16,000 older adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) found that higher doses of the muscle relaxant baclofen were associated with a greater risk of hospitalization due to encephalopathy. The study suggests that patients with CKD may need closer monitoring when prescribed baclofen.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 9, 2019

American Society of Nephrology honors leaders in the fight against kidney diseases

The American Society of Nephrology has honored five individuals for their outstanding contributions to kidney disease research, education, and clinical practice. Mitchell Rosner received the Robert G. Narins Award for his work in education and teaching, while Toshiro Fujita was recognized for his groundbreaking research on hypertension.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateNov 9, 2019

Predicting risk of chronic kidney disease

A new study used data from over 5 million people to develop equations predicting the five-year risk of reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), a key indicator of chronic kidney disease. The findings can help identify individuals at increased risk and potentially prevent or manage the condition.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 8, 2019
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

New tool predicts five-year risk of chronic kidney disease

A new risk calculator tool predicts accurate five-year risk of chronic kidney disease based on variables like age, hypertension, and diabetes status. The tool enables healthcare providers to identify patients at high risk and benefit from preventive interventions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJAMA·DateNov 8, 2019

Poor sleep may affect cognitive abilities and behavior of children with kidney disease

A study examining clinical trial data found that sleep problems and fatigue significantly impact the cognitive function and behavior of children with chronic kidney disease. The research highlights the importance of assessing sleep problems and fatigue in these children to improve their emotional-behavioral and neurocognitive outcomes.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateNov 7, 2019

Genetically modified mice can show which functional foods can heal kidney disease

Researchers have developed a non-invasive method to visualize kidney disease in live animals using genetically modified mice. They found that a promising chemical found in citrus fruit, G-Hes, reduces inflammation in the kidneys when fed to mice with kidney disease.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 6, 2019

Chronic kidney disease patients at increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes

Chronic kidney disease patients are at an increased risk of heart attacks, congestive heart failure, stroke, and other adverse cardiovascular events. The study found that chronic kidney disease is associated with a 95% higher risk of heart attack during the follow-up period.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateOct 23, 2019
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Examining risk of suicide and use of ACE inhibitors, ARBs

A study by JAMA Network found a potential association between ACE inhibitors and ARBs and an increased risk of suicide among individuals with hypertension, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. The observational study analyzed data from over 200,000 patients to identify any possible links between these medications and suicidal behavior.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 16, 2019

Kidney function may affect risks associated with prescription opioids

A study found that prescription opioids are associated with a higher risk of death and hospitalization compared to other pain medications, especially at high doses. The risk is highest among individuals with lower kidney function, who may experience reduced clearance of the active compounds from their bodies.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 3, 2019

More than 70% of hospital data breaches include sensitive demographic or financial info that could lead to identity theft

A study of 1,461 hospital data breaches found that 71% compromised sensitive demographic or financial information, putting patients at risk of identity theft. The breaches also revealed a lack of transparency about the types of information compromised, sparking calls for policymakers to require standardized documentation.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 23, 2019

Certain genetic variants predispose patients with diabetes to kidney disease

Researchers have uncovered 16 genetic regions linked to diabetic kidney disease, which may help identify potential targets for prevention and treatment. The study provides insights into the pathogenesis of DKD and could lead to new therapeutic strategies.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 19, 2019

At-home dialysis improves quality of life

Kaiser Permanente research finds that at-home peritoneal dialysis is safe and effective for managing advanced-stage kidney disease, improving lifestyle and quality of life. The study shows a significant increase in at-home dialysis rates over 10 years, with 80% of patients remaining on it one year after starting.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 9, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Family perceptions of end-of-life care for patients with advanced kidney disease

Bereaved family members rate end-of-life care higher for patients who received palliative and hospice care, rather than intensive patterns of life extension. Patients treated with dialysis have more aggressive end-of-life care, which is associated with lower quality ratings.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 29, 2019

Health care workers unprepared for magnitude of climate change

Chronic kidney disease, linked to heat exposure and dehydration, is expected to surge globally as temperatures rise. Climate change also threatens to increase cardiovascular disease, Lyme disease, and other illnesses in vulnerable communities.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 22, 2019

Kidney transplants covered by Medicaid increased in states after Medicaid expansion

The study found a significant increase in pre-emptive kidney transplants covered by Medicaid in states that expanded the program, with a 66% rise compared to non-expansion states. Medicaid-covered living-donor kidney transplants also increased, particularly in expansion states.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 20, 2019
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Too much of a good thing can be dangerous, finds researchers investigating hypoglycemia

A recent study by Mayo Clinic researchers found that over 2.3 million adult patients in the US are likely treated too intensively for their blood sugar levels, resulting in thousands of preventable hospitalizations and emergency department visits. This excessive treatment is linked to increased risk of hypoglycemia and other complicati...

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateAug 15, 2019

Internet can be valuable tool for people with undiagnosed rare disorders

Researchers found that self-diagnosis using the internet can lead to successful diagnoses of rare inherited conditions like autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease (ADTKD). The study received over 665 referrals from 1996 to 2017, with positive genetic testing results in 27% of cases.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateAug 7, 2019

Should polycystic kidney disease patients be screened for brain aneurysms?

A study of 812 ADPKD patients found that 9% had undiagnosed brain aneurysms, with those with hypertension and smoking more likely to have aneurysms. The overall rupture rate was approximately 5 times higher than in the general population.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 30, 2019
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Pre-eclampsia increases risk of end stage kidney disease, study finds

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that women who developed pre-eclampsia during pregnancy were nearly five times more likely to develop end stage kidney disease (ESKD) than those who did not. The study analyzed data from over 1 million healthy women and revealed a significant association between pre-eclampsia and ESKD risk.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 30, 2019

Cold snare polypectomy with continuous anticoagulant

Researchers found that cold snare polypectomy with continuous anticoagulant use does not increase bleeding risk, showing non-inferiority and even superiority over traditional methods. The study suggests that this procedure can be a safer alternative for patients taking blood thinners.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 15, 2019

PCSK9 inhibitors: Specific studies are mandatory to prove efficacy and safety in CKD

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with increased cardiovascular risk due to high LDL-C levels. PCSK9 inhibitors like evolocumab and alirocumab have shown promise in reducing cardiovascular events, but more research is needed to prove their efficacy and safety in CKD patients.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·DateJun 13, 2019
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Anonymous essay says sometimes 'choice' is a lie

A new essay published in Annals of Internal Medicine argues that physicians often have to make difficult decisions when faced with extreme political pressures. The author shares a personal story about caring for a pregnant woman who was forced to carry a baby without a brain, highlighting the need for compassion over 'choice' in patien...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 3, 2019

Study identifies enzymes that prevent diabetic kidney disease

Researchers have identified protective factors that play a strong role in preventing diabetic kidney disease. The study found that certain enzymes, including PKM2, are present in people with good kidney function and may be used as biomarkers and targets for personalized clinical intervention.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMay 20, 2019

Chronic kidney disease epidemic may be result of high heat, toxins

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that climate change may be contributing to a mysterious epidemic of chronic kidney disease among agricultural workers. The researchers found that heat exposure and heavy labor are common factors in the disease, which is also linked to toxins such as glyphosate and lead.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 8, 2019

Premature birth linked to increased risk of chronic kidney disease into later life

A Swedish study found that preterm and early term birth are strong risk factors for the development of chronic kidney disease from childhood into mid-adulthood. Preterm birth interrupts kidney development, leading to fewer nephrons forming and an increased risk of high blood pressure and progressive kidney disease.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 1, 2019
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Following a healthy plant-based diet may lower kidney disease risk

A new study found that consuming a nutrient-rich plant-based diet may help protect against chronic kidney disease (CKD) development. Participants with the highest adherence to a healthy plant-based diet had a lower risk of developing CKD compared to those with low adherence.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 25, 2019

Socioeconomic deprivation increases risk of developing chronic kidney disease in England

A study of 1.4 million adults in England found that socioeconomically deprived individuals are 68% more likely to develop advanced chronic kidney disease than the least deprived, experiencing poorer health outcomes and quality of life. The research recommends targeted interventions to engage disadvantaged groups through improved screen...

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·DateApr 23, 2019

Researchers find new novel circulating proteins involved in progression of DKD to ESRD

Scientists at Joslin Diabetes Center discovered a group of 17 inflammatory proteins associated with diabetic kidney disease progression. These Kidney Risk Inflammatory Signature (KRIS) proteins, including TNF receptors, are indicative of systemic inflammation and may serve as drug targets to prevent and treat end-stage renal disease.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 22, 2019

Novo Biosciences achieves major milestones in moving trodusquemine into clinical trials

Trodusquemine has shown promise in stimulating heart muscle regeneration in mice after an artificially induced heart attack, and slowing heart and skeletal muscle degeneration in a mouse DMD model. Novo Biosciences aims to develop a dosing regimen for juvenile DMD patients and define toxicity in juvenile animal models.

SourceNovo Biosciences·DateApr 12, 2019

Itchy skin affects the health and quality of life of many patients with kidney disease

A study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that pruritus affects 24% of patients with non-dialysis chronic kidney disease. Patients with pruritus reported poorer mental and physical quality of life, depression, and restless sleep.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 11, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Kidney disease triggers cognitive impairment, even in early stages

A recent study found that kidney disease can trigger cognitive impairment even in its early stages, affecting approximately one in two patients. The cognitive decline is not age-related and worsens with declining kidney function.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·DateApr 10, 2019

Global atlas of kidney health release on April 12 at World Congress of Nephrology

A new global study, Global Kidney Health Atlas (GKHA), is released on April 12 at the World Congress of Nephrology, detailing country and region breakdowns of global kidney health. The study highlights disparities in treatment access due to social, economic, and political factors, resulting in over 2 million deaths annually worldwide.

SourceTania Ewing and Associates·DateApr 7, 2019

$2 million NIH grant for treating disease linked to APOL1

A researcher at Children's National Hospital has received a $2 million NIH grant to study new approaches to treating kidney disease linked to the APOL1 risk allele. The team plans to use a Drosophila model to identify potential therapeutic targets and test compounds for effective treatment.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·DateApr 2, 2019

Chronic kidney disease of undetermined causes, described originally in Central America and Sri Lanka

A new study reveals that chronic kidney disease of undetermined causes (CKDu) is present in rural India, particularly in Southern areas, and shares similar risk factors as in Central America and Sri Lanka. The disease affects mainly working-age populations and has a faster clinical evolution compared to traditional CKD.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalBMJ Open·DateMar 29, 2019

Do smartphone apps help kidney disease patients manage their disease?

A recent study found that very few smartphone apps related to chronic kidney disease (CKD) are highly rated by both patients and physicians. The study suggests that patient opinions on app quality correlated poorly with physician ratings and consumer ratings from iOS and Android app stores.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 21, 2019
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

BU: Central American kidney disease epidemic linked to occupational heat exposure

A new study finds that occupational heat exposure is linked to a decline in kidney function and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in artisanal brick makers in Nicaragua. The researchers found 12.1% of the sample had stage 3-5 CKD, with risk factors including operating ovens, less education, older age, and inadequate water intake.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateMar 14, 2019

Cell therapy could replace need for kidney transplants

Researchers at Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine have made breakthroughs in treating chronic kidney disease with cell therapy. Amniotic fluid-derived stem cells injected into diseased kidneys showed improvement in kidney function and structural recovery after 10 weeks, reducing damage to capillary clusters.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·DateMar 14, 2019

Secondhand smoke linked with higher kidney disease risk

A new study has found a strong association between secondhand smoke exposure and the development of chronic kidney disease. Even brief periods of exposure, such as less than 3 days per week, were linked to a higher risk of CKD, with a 66% increased risk compared to those with no exposure.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 7, 2019

Kidney disease killer vulnerable to targeted nano therapy

Researchers at Clemson University developed a targeted nano therapy that destroyed calcium buildup in arteries without causing side effects. The therapy mimics a human's chronic kidney disease and has the potential to benefit thousands of patients.

SourceClemson University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 4, 2019