Vandana Menon - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Vandana Menon

Research paper thumbnail of Appropriate initial antibiotic therapy in hospitalized patients with gram-negative infections: systematic review and meta-analysis

BMC Infectious Diseases, 2015

The rapid global spread of multi-resistant bacteria and loss of antibiotic effectiveness increase... more The rapid global spread of multi-resistant bacteria and loss of antibiotic effectiveness increases the risk of initial inappropriate antibiotic therapy (IAT) and poses a serious threat to patient safety. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies to summarize the effect of appropriate antibiotic therapy (AAT) or IAT against gram-negative bacterial infections in the hospital setting. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases were searched until May 2014 to identify English-language studies examining use of AAT or IAT in hospitalized patients with Gram-negative pathogens. Outcomes of interest included mortality, clinical cure, cost, and length of stay. Citations and eligible full-text articles were screened in duplicate. Random effect models meta-analysis was used. Fifty-seven studies in 60 publications were eligible. AAT was associated with lower risk of mortality (unadjusted summary odds ratio [OR] 0.38, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.30-0.47, 39 studies, 5809 patients) and treatment failure (OR 0.22, 95 % CI 0.14-0.35; 3 studies, 283 patients). Conversely, IAT increased risk of mortality (unadjusted summary OR 2.66, 95 % CI 2.12-3.35; 39 studies, 5809 patients). In meta-analyses of adjusted data, AAT was associated with lower risk of mortality (adjusted summary OR 0.43, 95 % CI 0.23-0.83; 6 studies, 1409 patients). Conversely, IAT increased risk of mortality (adjusted summary OR 3.30, 95 % CI 2.42-4.49; 16 studies, 2493 patients). A limited number of studies suggested higher cost and longer hospital stay with IAT. There was considerable heterogeneity in the definition of AAT or IAT, pathogens studied, and outcomes assessed. Using a large set of studies we found that IAT is associated with a number of serious consequences,including an increased risk of hospital mortality. Infections caused by drug-resistant, Gram-negative organisms represent a considerable financial burden to healthcare systems due to the increased costs associated with the resources required to manage the infection, particularly longer hospital stays. However, there were insufficient data that evaluated AAT for the outcome of costs among patients with nosocomialGram-negative infections. IAT in hospitalized patients with Gram-negative infections is associated with adverse outcomes. Technological advances for rapid diagnostics to facilitate AAT along with antimicrobial stewardship, surveillance, infection control, and prevention is needed.

Research paper thumbnail of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Nosocomial Pneumonia: Impact of Pneumonia Classification

Infection control and hospital epidemiology, Jan 20, 2015

OBJECTIVE To describe and compare the mortality associated with nosocomial pneumonia due to Pseud... more OBJECTIVE To describe and compare the mortality associated with nosocomial pneumonia due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa-NP) according to pneumonia classification (community-onset pneumonia [COP], hospital-acquired pneumonia [(HAP], and ventilator-associated pneumonia [VAP]). DESIGN We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adults with Pa-NP. We compared mortality for Pa-NP among patients with COP, HAP, and VAP and used logistic regression to identify risk factors for hospital mortality and inappropriate initial antibiotic therapy (IIAT). SETTING Twelve acute care hospitals in 5 countries (United States, 3; France, 2; Germany, 2; Italy, 2; and Spain, 3). PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS A total of 742 patients with Pa-NP. RESULTS Hospital mortality was greater for those with VAP (41.9%) and HAP (40.1%) compared with COP (24.5%) (P<.001). In multivariate analyses, independent predictors of hospital mortality differed by pneumonia classification (COP: need for mechanical ventilation and inte...

Research paper thumbnail of Cystatin C as a risk factor for outcomes in chronic kidney disease

Annals of internal medicine, Jan 3, 2007

No study has compared cystatin C level, serum creatinine concentration, and estimated glomerular ... more No study has compared cystatin C level, serum creatinine concentration, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as risk factors for outcomes in chronic kidney disease (CKD), and none has compared measured GFR with CKD in any population. To compare cystatin C level with serum creatinine concentration and iothalamate GFR as risk factors for death and kidney failure. Observational study using serum cystatin C assayed from baseline samples of the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study (1989-1993). 15 clinical centers in the United States that participated in the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study. 825 trial participants with stage 3 or 4 nondiabetic CKD who had measurements of serum cystatin C. All-cause mortality, cardiovascular (CVD) mortality, and kidney failure until December 2000. Mean cystatin C level, creatinine concentration, and GFR were 2.2 mg/L (SD, 0.7), 212.16 micromol/L (SD, 88.4) (2.4 mg/dL [SD, 1.0]), and 33 mL/min per 1.73 m2 (SD, 12), respectively....

Research paper thumbnail of Relationship of phosphorus and calcium-phosphorus product with mortality in CKD

American journal of kidney diseases : the official journal of the National Kidney Foundation, 2005

Abnormalities of mineral metabolism are prevalent in patients with kidney failure and are associa... more Abnormalities of mineral metabolism are prevalent in patients with kidney failure and are associated with increased risk for cardiovascular events. There are limited data investigating relationships of phosphorus and calcium-phosphorus product with outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 3 to 4. Serum phosphorus and calcium were measured at baseline in 840 participants from the randomized cohort of the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study. Survival status until December 31, 2000, was obtained from the National Death Index. Cox models were performed to assess the relationship of serum phosphorus level and calcium-phosphorus product with all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. Mean serum phosphorus level was 3.8 +/- 0.7 mg/dL (1.23 +/- 0.23 mmol/L), calcium-phosphorus product was 34.7 +/- 6.3 mg2/dL2, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was 33 +/- 12 mL/min/1.73 m2 (0.55 +/- 0.20 mL/s/1.73 m2). All-cause and CVD mortality rates were 25% and ...

Research paper thumbnail of C-reactive protein and albumin as predictors of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in chronic kidney disease

Kidney international, 2005

High C-reactive protein (CRP) and hypoalbuminemia are associated with increased risk of mortality... more High C-reactive protein (CRP) and hypoalbuminemia are associated with increased risk of mortality in patients with kidney failure. There are limited data evaluating the relationships between CRP, albumin, and outcomes in chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 3 and 4. The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study was a randomized controlled trial conducted between 1989 and 1993. CRP was measured in frozen samples taken at baseline. Survival status and cause of death, up to December 31, 2000, were obtained from the National Death Index. Multivariable Cox models were used to examine the relationship of CRP [stratified into high CRP > or =3.0 mg/L (N= 414) versus low CRP<3.0 mg/L (N= 283)], and serum albumin, with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Median follow-up time was 125 months, all-cause mortality was 20% (N= 138) and cardiovascular mortality was 10% (N= 71). In multivariable analyses adjusting for demographic, cardiovascular and kidney disease factors, both hi...

Research paper thumbnail of Treating the Patient with Kidney Failure to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk

Current treatment options in cardiovascular medicine, 2004

The reduction of cardiovascular disease risk in kidney failure involves treatment of modifiable r... more The reduction of cardiovascular disease risk in kidney failure involves treatment of modifiable risk factors and provision of proven interventions to patients with established disease. Volume status management is key to blood pressure control. Statins are the agents of choice for the treatment of dyslipidemia. Target hemoglobin levels should be achieved using intravenous iron and erythropoietic agents. Combinations of calcium and noncalcium-containing phosphorus binders and vitamin D and its analogues should be used to attain target parathyroid hormone, phosphorus, and calcium phosphorus product levels. beta Blockers and aspirin are recommended in patients with ischemic heart disease and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (or angiotensin II receptor blockers), and beta blockers are recommended in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. In patients who require revascularization, studies suggest a survival benefit of coronary artery bypass graft surgery over ...

Research paper thumbnail of Alcohol consumption and kidney function decline in the elderly: Alcohol and Kidney Disease

Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation, 2010

Alcohol consumption appears to be protective for cardiovascular disease; however, its relationshi... more Alcohol consumption appears to be protective for cardiovascular disease; however, its relationship with kidney disease is unclear. This prospective cohort study included 4343 subjects from the Cardiovascular Health Study, a longitudinal, community-based cohort of persons aged ≥65 from four US communities. We used previously defined categories based on weekly alcohol consumption: none, former, &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;1 drink, 1-6 drinks, 7-13 drinks and ≥14 drinks. Cystatin C was measured at baseline, year 3 and year 7; eligible subjects had at least two measures. Estimated GFR(cys) was calculated from cystatin C. The primary outcome was rapid kidney function as an annual estimated GFR (eGFR(cys)) loss &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;3 mL/min/1.73 m(2)/year. Eight percent of the cohort reported former alcohol use and 52% reported current alcohol consumption. During a mean follow-up of 5.6 years, 1075 (25%) participants had rapid kidney function decline. In adjusted logistic regression models, there was no association between alcohol use and kidney function decline (odds ratio, 95% confidence interval: none = reference; former = 1.18, 0.89-1.56; &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;1 drink = 1.20, 0.99-1.47; 1-6 = 1.18, 0.95-1.45; 7-13 = 1.10, 0.80-1.53; &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;14 = 0.89, 0.61-1.13). Results were similar with kidney function decline as a continuous outcome. Our results suggest that moderate alcohol consumption has neither adverse nor beneficial effects on kidney function. Although clinicians will need to consider the potential deleterious effects associated with alcohol consumption, there does not appear to be a basis for recommending that older adults discontinue or initiate light to moderate alcohol consumption to protect against kidney disease.

Research paper thumbnail of Cardiovascular risk factors in chronic kidney disease

Kidney International, 2005

Cardiovascular disease is the primary cause of morbidity and premature mortality in chronic kidne... more Cardiovascular disease is the primary cause of morbidity and premature mortality in chronic kidney disease. While it is well established that patients with kidney failure (chronic kidney disease stage 5) are at high risk of cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality 1, ...

Research paper thumbnail of Long-term outcomes in nondiabetic chronic kidney disease

Kidney International, 2008

The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study examined the effects of strict blood press... more The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study examined the effects of strict blood pressure control and dietary protein restriction on the progression of kidney disease. Here, we retrospectively evaluated outcomes of nondiabetic participants with stages 2-4 chronic kidney disease (CKD) from randomized and nonrandomized cohorts of the MDRD Study. Kidney failure and survival status through December of 2000, were obtained from the US Renal Data System and the National Death Index. Event rates were calculated for kidney failure, death, and a composite outcome of death and kidney failure. In the 1666 patients, rates for kidney failure were four times higher than that for death. Kidney failure was a more likely event than death in subgroups based on baseline glomerular filtration rate, proteinuria, kidney disease etiology, gender, and race. It was only among those older than 65 that the rate for death approximated that for kidney failure. In contrast to other populations with CKD, our study of relatively young subjects with nondiabetic disease has found that the majority of the participants advanced to kidney failure with a low competing risk of death. In such patients, the primary emphasis should be on delaying progression of kidney disease.

Research paper thumbnail of Homocysteine in chronic kidney disease: Effect of low protein diet and repletion with B vitamins

Kidney International, 2005

Data are limited on the determinants of homocysteine (tHcy) and its relationship with nutritional... more Data are limited on the determinants of homocysteine (tHcy) and its relationship with nutritional indices, and dietary protein intake, in the earlier stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Levels of tHcy were assayed at baseline (N= 804) and 1 year postrandomization (N= 678) in the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study [study A, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) 25 to 55 mL/min/1.73 m(2) and study B GFR 13 to 24 mL/min/1.73 m(2)]. Participants were randomly assigned to different blood pressure targets and protein diets and all subjects received a multivitamin supplement containing 1 mg of folic acid, 10 mg pyridoxal 5&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;-phosphate (PLP) and 6 mug of vitamin B(12). Multivariable analyses were used to evaluate determinants of tHcy at baseline and 1 year. The prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia (tHcy &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;15 mumol/L) at baseline was 56% in study A and 85% in study B. Baseline tHcy was negatively correlated with measures of body fat and dietary protein intake. Folate, vitamin B(12), and GFR were the major determinants of tHcy levels. Of the patients with hyperhomocysteinemia at baseline, 49% and 24% reduced their tHcy levels at 1 year to &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; or =15 micromol/L in study A and study B, respectively. There was no association between dietary protein intake and odds of developing hyperhomocysteinemia at 1 year in study A (P= 0.94) or study B (P= 0.10). Hyperhomocysteinemia is partly amenable to correction by vitamin supplementation in CKD stages 3 and 4. There is insufficient evidence to suggest that low tHcy is associated with poor nutritional status in the MDRD Study cohort. B vitamins and GFR, but not dietary protein, are the major determinants of tHcy in this patient population.

Research paper thumbnail of Fetuin-A is not associated with mortality in chronic kidney disease

Kidney International, 2007

Fetuin-A is a serum protein that inhibits vascular calcification such that lower levels are assoc... more Fetuin-A is a serum protein that inhibits vascular calcification such that lower levels are associated with a higher prevalence of vascular calcification and mortality risk among end-stage renal disease populations. We analyzed data of 822 persons in the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease study, a randomized, controlled trial of persons with predominantly non-diabetic stage 3-4 chronic kidney disease (CKD). Serum fetuin-A levels were measured in baseline serum. Survival status and cause of death were determined by the National Death Index. Cox proportional hazard models evaluated the association of fetuin-A levels with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Glomerular filtration ranged from 13 to 55 ml per min per 1.73 m(2). During a median follow-up of 9.5 years, 25% of persons died from any cause and 12% died from a cardiovascular cause. Compared to the lowest tertile, no association was found between the highest fetuin-A tertile and all-cause or cardiovascular mortality. Similarly, no association was found between fetuin-A as a continuous variable and all-cause or cardiovascular mortality. Our study shows that serum fetuin-A levels are not related to all-cause or cardiovascular mortality among persons with predominantly non-diabetic stage 3 or 4 CKD.

Research paper thumbnail of Adiponectin and Mortality in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 2006

Adiponectin is presumed to possess antiatherogenic and cardioprotective properties. Limited data ... more Adiponectin is presumed to possess antiatherogenic and cardioprotective properties. Limited data exist on the relationship between adiponectin and mortality in the earlier stages of chronic kidney disease. The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease study was a randomized, controlled trial that was conducted between 1989 and 1993. Adiponectin was measured in frozen samples that were obtained at baseline (N = 820). Survival status and cause of death, up to December 31, 2000, were obtained from the National Death Index. Multivariable Cox models were used to examine the relationship of adiponectin with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Mean +/- SD age was 52 +/- 12 yr, and mean +/- SD glomerular filtration rate (GFR) rate was 33 +/- 12 ml/min per 1.73 m2. Eighty-five percent of participants were white, and 60% were male. Mean +/- SD adiponectin was 12.8 +/- 8.0 mug/ml. Triglycerides, insulin resistance, glucose, body mass index, GFR, C-reactive protein, and albumin were inversely related and proteinuria and HDL cholesterol were directly related to adiponectin. During the 10-year follow-up period, 201 (25%) participants died of any cause, and 122 (15%) from cardiovascular disease. In multivariable adjusted Cox models, a 1-mug/ml increase in adiponectin was associated with a 3% (hazard ratio 1.03; 95% confidence interval 1.01 to 1.05; P = 0.02) increased risk for all-cause and 6% (hazard ratio 1.06; 95% confidence interval 1.03 to 1.09; P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.001) increased risk for cardiovascular mortality. High, rather than low, adiponectin is associated with increased mortality in this cohort of patients with chronic kidney disease stages 3 to 4. Further studies are necessary to confirm this association and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Research paper thumbnail of Glycosylated Hemoglobin and Mortality in Patients with Nondiabetic Chronic Kidney Disease

Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 2005

In the general population, hyperglycemia in the absence of diabetes may be associated with increa... more In the general population, hyperglycemia in the absence of diabetes may be associated with increased risk for mortality. Hyperglycemia is prevalent in chronic kidney disease; however, the relationship between glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA 1c ) as a marker of chronic hyperglycemia and outcomes has not been studied in nondiabetic chronic kidney disease. HbA 1c was measured at baseline in the randomized cohort of the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study (n ‫؍‬ 840). Participants with diabetes (n ‫؍‬ 43), fasting glucose levels >126 mg/dl (n ‫؍‬ 20), or missing HbA 1c levels (n ‫؍‬ 9) were excluded. Survival status until December 2000 was obtained from the National Death Index. Death was classified as cardiovascular (CVD) when the primary cause was International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision codes 390 to 459. Cox models were performed to assess the relationship of HbA 1c with all-cause and CVD mortality. Mean (SD) age was 52 (12) years, and mean (SD) GFR was 32 (12) ml/min per 1.73 m 2 . Eighty-six percent of participants were white, and 61% were male. Mean (SD) HbA 1c was 5.6% (0.5). A total of 169 (22%) patients died, 96 (13%) from CVD. After adjustment for randomization assignments and demographic, CVD, and kidney disease factors, HbA 1c was a predictor of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio per 1% increase 1.73; 95% confidence interval 1.24 to 2.41; P ‫؍‬ 0.001). There was a trend toward statistical significance in the relationship between HbA 1c and CVD mortality (hazard ratio per 1% increase 1.53; 95% confidence interval 0.96 to 2.43; P ‫؍‬ 0.07). HbA 1c is associated with increased mortality in nondiabetic kidney disease. Hyperglycemia may be a potential therapeutic target and HbA 1c may be important as a risk stratification tool in this high-risk population.

Research paper thumbnail of Role of Adipose Tissue in Determining Muscle Mass in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease

Journal of Renal Nutrition, 2007

Malnutrition is a powerful predictor of mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, its e... more Malnutrition is a powerful predictor of mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, its etiology is unclear. We hypothesized that the adipocyte-derived proteins leptin and adiponectin, inflammation (as measured by C-reactive protein, CRP), and insulin resistance (as measured by homeostasis model assessment, HOMA), implicated in the malnutrition-inflammation complex syndrome commonly seen in maintenance dialysis patients, would be associated with the loss of muscle mass in earlier stages of CKD. Arm muscle area was used as an indicator of muscle mass. The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study cohort of people with CKD stages 3 and 4 was used for analysis (N = 780). Regression models were carried out to examine the relationships of leptin, adiponectin, CRP, and HOMA with arm muscle area (the main study outcome). Arm muscle area was 39 +/- 15 cm(2) (mean +/- SD), and adiponectin levels were 13 +/- 7 microg/mL. Median and interquartile range (IQR) concentrations were: 9.0 (13.6) ng/mL for leptin, 2.3 (4.9) mg/L for CRP, and 2.4 (2.0) for HOMA. Higher leptin (beta coefficient and 95% confidence interval, -6.9 [-8.7 to -5.1], P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; .001) and higher CRP (beta coefficient and 95% confidence interval, -2.7 [-3.9 to -1.4], P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; .001) were associated with lower arm muscle area. There was a trend toward lower arm muscle area with higher adiponectin (P = .07), but no association with HOMA (P = .80). Leptin and CRP were associated with lower muscle mass in subjects with CKD at stages 3 and 4. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms underlying these associations, and to develop targeted interventions for this patient population.

Research paper thumbnail of Changes in Metabolic Profile Among Antiretroviral-Naive Patients Initiating Protease Inhibitor Versus Non–Protease Inhibitor Containing HAART Regimens

JAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, 2003

Lipodystrophic syndrome, insulin resistance, and frank diabetes are emerging as important metabol... more Lipodystrophic syndrome, insulin resistance, and frank diabetes are emerging as important metabolic consequences of protease inhibitor (PI) therapy in patients with HIV. 1-3 These metabolic abnormalities may be due to direct effects of PI on rates of whole body lipolysis, differentiation and ...

Research paper thumbnail of Acute and late toxicity of patients with inflammatory bowel disease undergoing irradiation for abdominal and pelvic neoplasms

International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics, 2000

Purpose: Little data exists in the medical literature describing the response of patients with in... more Purpose: Little data exists in the medical literature describing the response of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to abdominal and pelvic irradiation. To clarify the use of this modality in this setting, this study assesses the short-and long-term tolerance of 28 patients with IBD to abdominal and pelvic irradiation. Methods and Materials: From 1970 to 1999, 28 patients with IBD (10 patients-Crohn's disease, 18 patientsulcerative colitis) were identified and underwent external beam abdominal or pelvic irradiation. Mean follow-up time after radiation therapy was 32 months. Patients were treated either by specialized techniques (16 patients) to minimize small and large bowel irradiation or by more conventional approaches (12 patients). Acute and late toxicity was scored. Results: The overall incidence of severe toxicity was 46% (13/28 patients). Six of 28 patients (21%) experienced severe acute toxicity necessitating cessation of radiation therapy. Late toxicity requiring hospitalization or surgical intervention was observed in 8 of 28 patients (29%). One patient experienced both an acute as well as late toxicity. For patients undergoing radiation therapy by conventional approaches, the 5-year actuarial rate of late toxicity was 73%. This figure was 23% for patients treated by specialized techniques (p ‫؍‬ 0.02). Conclusions: Because of the potentially severe toxicity experienced by patients with IBD undergoing abdominal and pelvic irradiation, judicious use of this modality must be employed. Definition of IBD location and activity as well as careful attention to irradiation technique may allow treatment of these patients with acceptable rates of morbidity.

Research paper thumbnail of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine and Mortality in Stages 3 to 4 Chronic Kidney Disease

Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 2009

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase, reduces bio... more Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase, reduces bioavailability of nitric oxide and induces endothelial dysfunction. This dimethylated amino acid accumulates in chronic kidney disease and may be involved in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in this population. The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study was a randomized, controlled trial conducted between 1989 and 1993. We measured ADMA in frozen samples collected at baseline (n = 820) and obtained survival status, up to December 31, 2000, from the National Death Index. We examined the relationship of ADMA with prevalent CVD and performed multivariable Cox models to examine the relationship of ADMA with all-cause and CVD mortality. Mean (SD) age was 52 (12) yr, GFR was 32 +/- 12 ml/min per 1.73 m(2), and ADMA was 0.70 +/- 0.25 micromol/L. A 1-SD increase in ADMA was associated with a 31% increased odds of prevalent CVD in an adjusted logistic regression model. During the 10-yr follow-up period, 202 (25%) participants died of any cause, 122 (15%) from CVD, and 545 (66%) reached kidney failure. In multivariable Cox models, a 1-SD increase in ADMA was associated with a 9% increased risk for all-cause and 19% increased risk for CVD mortality. In this cohort of patients with predominantly nondiabetic, stages 3 to 4 chronic kidney disease, there was a strong association of ADMA with prevalent CVD and a modest association with all-cause and CVD mortality.

Research paper thumbnail of Hyperlipidemia and Long-Term Outcomes in Nondiabetic Chronic Kidney Disease

Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 2010

Dyslipidemia confers a paradoxical survival advantage in patients with kidney failure. Data are l... more Dyslipidemia confers a paradoxical survival advantage in patients with kidney failure. Data are limited in the earlier stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). This was a cohort study in 840 subjects with stage 3 to 4 CKD enrolled in the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease study. Cox models were used to examine the relationship of total cholesterol (TC), non-HDL-cholesterol (NHDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) with all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and progression to kidney failure. During a mean follow-up of 10 years, there were 208 deaths, 128 deaths from CVD, and 554 subjects reached kidney failure. There was no association between tertiles of any of the lipid variables and mortality; the lowest HDL-C tertile (1.44, 1.18 to 1.78) had increased risk of kidney failure but covariate adjustment abolished this association. In analyses with lipids as continuous variables, there was a significant association with all-cause mortality for TC (hazard ratio [HR] per 10-mg/dl increase, 95% confidence intervals [CI] = 1.03, 1.0 to 1.06) that disappeared with covariate adjustment; there was no association of TG, HDL-C, and NHDL-C as continuous variables with all-cause or CVD mortality. There was a significant inverse association between HDL-C and kidney failure (HR = 0.93, CI = 0.87 to 0.99) in an unadjusted Cox model that was attenuated after adjustment for covariates (HR = 0.98 CI = 0.91 to 1.06). In this cohort, with predominantly nondiabetic CKD patients, hyperlipidemia is not an independent predictor of long-term outcomes.

Research paper thumbnail of Response to Letter Regarding Article, "Relationship Between Homocysteine and Mortality in Chronic Kidney Disease

Research paper thumbnail of Relationship Between Homocysteine and Mortality in Chronic Kidney Disease

Circulation, 2006

Background-The relationship between total homocysteine (tHcy) and outcomes has not been investiga... more Background-The relationship between total homocysteine (tHcy) and outcomes has not been investigated in patients with chronic kidney disease stages 3 to 4. Methods and Results-The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study was a randomized, controlled trial of 840 patients.

Research paper thumbnail of Appropriate initial antibiotic therapy in hospitalized patients with gram-negative infections: systematic review and meta-analysis

BMC Infectious Diseases, 2015

The rapid global spread of multi-resistant bacteria and loss of antibiotic effectiveness increase... more The rapid global spread of multi-resistant bacteria and loss of antibiotic effectiveness increases the risk of initial inappropriate antibiotic therapy (IAT) and poses a serious threat to patient safety. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies to summarize the effect of appropriate antibiotic therapy (AAT) or IAT against gram-negative bacterial infections in the hospital setting. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases were searched until May 2014 to identify English-language studies examining use of AAT or IAT in hospitalized patients with Gram-negative pathogens. Outcomes of interest included mortality, clinical cure, cost, and length of stay. Citations and eligible full-text articles were screened in duplicate. Random effect models meta-analysis was used. Fifty-seven studies in 60 publications were eligible. AAT was associated with lower risk of mortality (unadjusted summary odds ratio [OR] 0.38, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.30-0.47, 39 studies, 5809 patients) and treatment failure (OR 0.22, 95 % CI 0.14-0.35; 3 studies, 283 patients). Conversely, IAT increased risk of mortality (unadjusted summary OR 2.66, 95 % CI 2.12-3.35; 39 studies, 5809 patients). In meta-analyses of adjusted data, AAT was associated with lower risk of mortality (adjusted summary OR 0.43, 95 % CI 0.23-0.83; 6 studies, 1409 patients). Conversely, IAT increased risk of mortality (adjusted summary OR 3.30, 95 % CI 2.42-4.49; 16 studies, 2493 patients). A limited number of studies suggested higher cost and longer hospital stay with IAT. There was considerable heterogeneity in the definition of AAT or IAT, pathogens studied, and outcomes assessed. Using a large set of studies we found that IAT is associated with a number of serious consequences,including an increased risk of hospital mortality. Infections caused by drug-resistant, Gram-negative organisms represent a considerable financial burden to healthcare systems due to the increased costs associated with the resources required to manage the infection, particularly longer hospital stays. However, there were insufficient data that evaluated AAT for the outcome of costs among patients with nosocomialGram-negative infections. IAT in hospitalized patients with Gram-negative infections is associated with adverse outcomes. Technological advances for rapid diagnostics to facilitate AAT along with antimicrobial stewardship, surveillance, infection control, and prevention is needed.

Research paper thumbnail of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Nosocomial Pneumonia: Impact of Pneumonia Classification

Infection control and hospital epidemiology, Jan 20, 2015

OBJECTIVE To describe and compare the mortality associated with nosocomial pneumonia due to Pseud... more OBJECTIVE To describe and compare the mortality associated with nosocomial pneumonia due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa-NP) according to pneumonia classification (community-onset pneumonia [COP], hospital-acquired pneumonia [(HAP], and ventilator-associated pneumonia [VAP]). DESIGN We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adults with Pa-NP. We compared mortality for Pa-NP among patients with COP, HAP, and VAP and used logistic regression to identify risk factors for hospital mortality and inappropriate initial antibiotic therapy (IIAT). SETTING Twelve acute care hospitals in 5 countries (United States, 3; France, 2; Germany, 2; Italy, 2; and Spain, 3). PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS A total of 742 patients with Pa-NP. RESULTS Hospital mortality was greater for those with VAP (41.9%) and HAP (40.1%) compared with COP (24.5%) (P<.001). In multivariate analyses, independent predictors of hospital mortality differed by pneumonia classification (COP: need for mechanical ventilation and inte...

Research paper thumbnail of Cystatin C as a risk factor for outcomes in chronic kidney disease

Annals of internal medicine, Jan 3, 2007

No study has compared cystatin C level, serum creatinine concentration, and estimated glomerular ... more No study has compared cystatin C level, serum creatinine concentration, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as risk factors for outcomes in chronic kidney disease (CKD), and none has compared measured GFR with CKD in any population. To compare cystatin C level with serum creatinine concentration and iothalamate GFR as risk factors for death and kidney failure. Observational study using serum cystatin C assayed from baseline samples of the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study (1989-1993). 15 clinical centers in the United States that participated in the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study. 825 trial participants with stage 3 or 4 nondiabetic CKD who had measurements of serum cystatin C. All-cause mortality, cardiovascular (CVD) mortality, and kidney failure until December 2000. Mean cystatin C level, creatinine concentration, and GFR were 2.2 mg/L (SD, 0.7), 212.16 micromol/L (SD, 88.4) (2.4 mg/dL [SD, 1.0]), and 33 mL/min per 1.73 m2 (SD, 12), respectively....

Research paper thumbnail of Relationship of phosphorus and calcium-phosphorus product with mortality in CKD

American journal of kidney diseases : the official journal of the National Kidney Foundation, 2005

Abnormalities of mineral metabolism are prevalent in patients with kidney failure and are associa... more Abnormalities of mineral metabolism are prevalent in patients with kidney failure and are associated with increased risk for cardiovascular events. There are limited data investigating relationships of phosphorus and calcium-phosphorus product with outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 3 to 4. Serum phosphorus and calcium were measured at baseline in 840 participants from the randomized cohort of the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study. Survival status until December 31, 2000, was obtained from the National Death Index. Cox models were performed to assess the relationship of serum phosphorus level and calcium-phosphorus product with all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. Mean serum phosphorus level was 3.8 +/- 0.7 mg/dL (1.23 +/- 0.23 mmol/L), calcium-phosphorus product was 34.7 +/- 6.3 mg2/dL2, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was 33 +/- 12 mL/min/1.73 m2 (0.55 +/- 0.20 mL/s/1.73 m2). All-cause and CVD mortality rates were 25% and ...

Research paper thumbnail of C-reactive protein and albumin as predictors of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in chronic kidney disease

Kidney international, 2005

High C-reactive protein (CRP) and hypoalbuminemia are associated with increased risk of mortality... more High C-reactive protein (CRP) and hypoalbuminemia are associated with increased risk of mortality in patients with kidney failure. There are limited data evaluating the relationships between CRP, albumin, and outcomes in chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 3 and 4. The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study was a randomized controlled trial conducted between 1989 and 1993. CRP was measured in frozen samples taken at baseline. Survival status and cause of death, up to December 31, 2000, were obtained from the National Death Index. Multivariable Cox models were used to examine the relationship of CRP [stratified into high CRP > or =3.0 mg/L (N= 414) versus low CRP<3.0 mg/L (N= 283)], and serum albumin, with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Median follow-up time was 125 months, all-cause mortality was 20% (N= 138) and cardiovascular mortality was 10% (N= 71). In multivariable analyses adjusting for demographic, cardiovascular and kidney disease factors, both hi...

Research paper thumbnail of Treating the Patient with Kidney Failure to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk

Current treatment options in cardiovascular medicine, 2004

The reduction of cardiovascular disease risk in kidney failure involves treatment of modifiable r... more The reduction of cardiovascular disease risk in kidney failure involves treatment of modifiable risk factors and provision of proven interventions to patients with established disease. Volume status management is key to blood pressure control. Statins are the agents of choice for the treatment of dyslipidemia. Target hemoglobin levels should be achieved using intravenous iron and erythropoietic agents. Combinations of calcium and noncalcium-containing phosphorus binders and vitamin D and its analogues should be used to attain target parathyroid hormone, phosphorus, and calcium phosphorus product levels. beta Blockers and aspirin are recommended in patients with ischemic heart disease and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (or angiotensin II receptor blockers), and beta blockers are recommended in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. In patients who require revascularization, studies suggest a survival benefit of coronary artery bypass graft surgery over ...

Research paper thumbnail of Alcohol consumption and kidney function decline in the elderly: Alcohol and Kidney Disease

Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation, 2010

Alcohol consumption appears to be protective for cardiovascular disease; however, its relationshi... more Alcohol consumption appears to be protective for cardiovascular disease; however, its relationship with kidney disease is unclear. This prospective cohort study included 4343 subjects from the Cardiovascular Health Study, a longitudinal, community-based cohort of persons aged ≥65 from four US communities. We used previously defined categories based on weekly alcohol consumption: none, former, &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;1 drink, 1-6 drinks, 7-13 drinks and ≥14 drinks. Cystatin C was measured at baseline, year 3 and year 7; eligible subjects had at least two measures. Estimated GFR(cys) was calculated from cystatin C. The primary outcome was rapid kidney function as an annual estimated GFR (eGFR(cys)) loss &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;3 mL/min/1.73 m(2)/year. Eight percent of the cohort reported former alcohol use and 52% reported current alcohol consumption. During a mean follow-up of 5.6 years, 1075 (25%) participants had rapid kidney function decline. In adjusted logistic regression models, there was no association between alcohol use and kidney function decline (odds ratio, 95% confidence interval: none = reference; former = 1.18, 0.89-1.56; &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;1 drink = 1.20, 0.99-1.47; 1-6 = 1.18, 0.95-1.45; 7-13 = 1.10, 0.80-1.53; &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;14 = 0.89, 0.61-1.13). Results were similar with kidney function decline as a continuous outcome. Our results suggest that moderate alcohol consumption has neither adverse nor beneficial effects on kidney function. Although clinicians will need to consider the potential deleterious effects associated with alcohol consumption, there does not appear to be a basis for recommending that older adults discontinue or initiate light to moderate alcohol consumption to protect against kidney disease.

Research paper thumbnail of Cardiovascular risk factors in chronic kidney disease

Kidney International, 2005

Cardiovascular disease is the primary cause of morbidity and premature mortality in chronic kidne... more Cardiovascular disease is the primary cause of morbidity and premature mortality in chronic kidney disease. While it is well established that patients with kidney failure (chronic kidney disease stage 5) are at high risk of cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality 1, ...

Research paper thumbnail of Long-term outcomes in nondiabetic chronic kidney disease

Kidney International, 2008

The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study examined the effects of strict blood press... more The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study examined the effects of strict blood pressure control and dietary protein restriction on the progression of kidney disease. Here, we retrospectively evaluated outcomes of nondiabetic participants with stages 2-4 chronic kidney disease (CKD) from randomized and nonrandomized cohorts of the MDRD Study. Kidney failure and survival status through December of 2000, were obtained from the US Renal Data System and the National Death Index. Event rates were calculated for kidney failure, death, and a composite outcome of death and kidney failure. In the 1666 patients, rates for kidney failure were four times higher than that for death. Kidney failure was a more likely event than death in subgroups based on baseline glomerular filtration rate, proteinuria, kidney disease etiology, gender, and race. It was only among those older than 65 that the rate for death approximated that for kidney failure. In contrast to other populations with CKD, our study of relatively young subjects with nondiabetic disease has found that the majority of the participants advanced to kidney failure with a low competing risk of death. In such patients, the primary emphasis should be on delaying progression of kidney disease.

Research paper thumbnail of Homocysteine in chronic kidney disease: Effect of low protein diet and repletion with B vitamins

Kidney International, 2005

Data are limited on the determinants of homocysteine (tHcy) and its relationship with nutritional... more Data are limited on the determinants of homocysteine (tHcy) and its relationship with nutritional indices, and dietary protein intake, in the earlier stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Levels of tHcy were assayed at baseline (N= 804) and 1 year postrandomization (N= 678) in the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study [study A, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) 25 to 55 mL/min/1.73 m(2) and study B GFR 13 to 24 mL/min/1.73 m(2)]. Participants were randomly assigned to different blood pressure targets and protein diets and all subjects received a multivitamin supplement containing 1 mg of folic acid, 10 mg pyridoxal 5&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;-phosphate (PLP) and 6 mug of vitamin B(12). Multivariable analyses were used to evaluate determinants of tHcy at baseline and 1 year. The prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia (tHcy &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;15 mumol/L) at baseline was 56% in study A and 85% in study B. Baseline tHcy was negatively correlated with measures of body fat and dietary protein intake. Folate, vitamin B(12), and GFR were the major determinants of tHcy levels. Of the patients with hyperhomocysteinemia at baseline, 49% and 24% reduced their tHcy levels at 1 year to &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; or =15 micromol/L in study A and study B, respectively. There was no association between dietary protein intake and odds of developing hyperhomocysteinemia at 1 year in study A (P= 0.94) or study B (P= 0.10). Hyperhomocysteinemia is partly amenable to correction by vitamin supplementation in CKD stages 3 and 4. There is insufficient evidence to suggest that low tHcy is associated with poor nutritional status in the MDRD Study cohort. B vitamins and GFR, but not dietary protein, are the major determinants of tHcy in this patient population.

Research paper thumbnail of Fetuin-A is not associated with mortality in chronic kidney disease

Kidney International, 2007

Fetuin-A is a serum protein that inhibits vascular calcification such that lower levels are assoc... more Fetuin-A is a serum protein that inhibits vascular calcification such that lower levels are associated with a higher prevalence of vascular calcification and mortality risk among end-stage renal disease populations. We analyzed data of 822 persons in the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease study, a randomized, controlled trial of persons with predominantly non-diabetic stage 3-4 chronic kidney disease (CKD). Serum fetuin-A levels were measured in baseline serum. Survival status and cause of death were determined by the National Death Index. Cox proportional hazard models evaluated the association of fetuin-A levels with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Glomerular filtration ranged from 13 to 55 ml per min per 1.73 m(2). During a median follow-up of 9.5 years, 25% of persons died from any cause and 12% died from a cardiovascular cause. Compared to the lowest tertile, no association was found between the highest fetuin-A tertile and all-cause or cardiovascular mortality. Similarly, no association was found between fetuin-A as a continuous variable and all-cause or cardiovascular mortality. Our study shows that serum fetuin-A levels are not related to all-cause or cardiovascular mortality among persons with predominantly non-diabetic stage 3 or 4 CKD.

Research paper thumbnail of Adiponectin and Mortality in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 2006

Adiponectin is presumed to possess antiatherogenic and cardioprotective properties. Limited data ... more Adiponectin is presumed to possess antiatherogenic and cardioprotective properties. Limited data exist on the relationship between adiponectin and mortality in the earlier stages of chronic kidney disease. The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease study was a randomized, controlled trial that was conducted between 1989 and 1993. Adiponectin was measured in frozen samples that were obtained at baseline (N = 820). Survival status and cause of death, up to December 31, 2000, were obtained from the National Death Index. Multivariable Cox models were used to examine the relationship of adiponectin with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Mean +/- SD age was 52 +/- 12 yr, and mean +/- SD glomerular filtration rate (GFR) rate was 33 +/- 12 ml/min per 1.73 m2. Eighty-five percent of participants were white, and 60% were male. Mean +/- SD adiponectin was 12.8 +/- 8.0 mug/ml. Triglycerides, insulin resistance, glucose, body mass index, GFR, C-reactive protein, and albumin were inversely related and proteinuria and HDL cholesterol were directly related to adiponectin. During the 10-year follow-up period, 201 (25%) participants died of any cause, and 122 (15%) from cardiovascular disease. In multivariable adjusted Cox models, a 1-mug/ml increase in adiponectin was associated with a 3% (hazard ratio 1.03; 95% confidence interval 1.01 to 1.05; P = 0.02) increased risk for all-cause and 6% (hazard ratio 1.06; 95% confidence interval 1.03 to 1.09; P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.001) increased risk for cardiovascular mortality. High, rather than low, adiponectin is associated with increased mortality in this cohort of patients with chronic kidney disease stages 3 to 4. Further studies are necessary to confirm this association and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Research paper thumbnail of Glycosylated Hemoglobin and Mortality in Patients with Nondiabetic Chronic Kidney Disease

Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 2005

In the general population, hyperglycemia in the absence of diabetes may be associated with increa... more In the general population, hyperglycemia in the absence of diabetes may be associated with increased risk for mortality. Hyperglycemia is prevalent in chronic kidney disease; however, the relationship between glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA 1c ) as a marker of chronic hyperglycemia and outcomes has not been studied in nondiabetic chronic kidney disease. HbA 1c was measured at baseline in the randomized cohort of the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study (n ‫؍‬ 840). Participants with diabetes (n ‫؍‬ 43), fasting glucose levels >126 mg/dl (n ‫؍‬ 20), or missing HbA 1c levels (n ‫؍‬ 9) were excluded. Survival status until December 2000 was obtained from the National Death Index. Death was classified as cardiovascular (CVD) when the primary cause was International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision codes 390 to 459. Cox models were performed to assess the relationship of HbA 1c with all-cause and CVD mortality. Mean (SD) age was 52 (12) years, and mean (SD) GFR was 32 (12) ml/min per 1.73 m 2 . Eighty-six percent of participants were white, and 61% were male. Mean (SD) HbA 1c was 5.6% (0.5). A total of 169 (22%) patients died, 96 (13%) from CVD. After adjustment for randomization assignments and demographic, CVD, and kidney disease factors, HbA 1c was a predictor of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio per 1% increase 1.73; 95% confidence interval 1.24 to 2.41; P ‫؍‬ 0.001). There was a trend toward statistical significance in the relationship between HbA 1c and CVD mortality (hazard ratio per 1% increase 1.53; 95% confidence interval 0.96 to 2.43; P ‫؍‬ 0.07). HbA 1c is associated with increased mortality in nondiabetic kidney disease. Hyperglycemia may be a potential therapeutic target and HbA 1c may be important as a risk stratification tool in this high-risk population.

Research paper thumbnail of Role of Adipose Tissue in Determining Muscle Mass in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease

Journal of Renal Nutrition, 2007

Malnutrition is a powerful predictor of mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, its e... more Malnutrition is a powerful predictor of mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, its etiology is unclear. We hypothesized that the adipocyte-derived proteins leptin and adiponectin, inflammation (as measured by C-reactive protein, CRP), and insulin resistance (as measured by homeostasis model assessment, HOMA), implicated in the malnutrition-inflammation complex syndrome commonly seen in maintenance dialysis patients, would be associated with the loss of muscle mass in earlier stages of CKD. Arm muscle area was used as an indicator of muscle mass. The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study cohort of people with CKD stages 3 and 4 was used for analysis (N = 780). Regression models were carried out to examine the relationships of leptin, adiponectin, CRP, and HOMA with arm muscle area (the main study outcome). Arm muscle area was 39 +/- 15 cm(2) (mean +/- SD), and adiponectin levels were 13 +/- 7 microg/mL. Median and interquartile range (IQR) concentrations were: 9.0 (13.6) ng/mL for leptin, 2.3 (4.9) mg/L for CRP, and 2.4 (2.0) for HOMA. Higher leptin (beta coefficient and 95% confidence interval, -6.9 [-8.7 to -5.1], P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; .001) and higher CRP (beta coefficient and 95% confidence interval, -2.7 [-3.9 to -1.4], P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; .001) were associated with lower arm muscle area. There was a trend toward lower arm muscle area with higher adiponectin (P = .07), but no association with HOMA (P = .80). Leptin and CRP were associated with lower muscle mass in subjects with CKD at stages 3 and 4. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms underlying these associations, and to develop targeted interventions for this patient population.

Research paper thumbnail of Changes in Metabolic Profile Among Antiretroviral-Naive Patients Initiating Protease Inhibitor Versus Non–Protease Inhibitor Containing HAART Regimens

JAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, 2003

Lipodystrophic syndrome, insulin resistance, and frank diabetes are emerging as important metabol... more Lipodystrophic syndrome, insulin resistance, and frank diabetes are emerging as important metabolic consequences of protease inhibitor (PI) therapy in patients with HIV. 1-3 These metabolic abnormalities may be due to direct effects of PI on rates of whole body lipolysis, differentiation and ...

Research paper thumbnail of Acute and late toxicity of patients with inflammatory bowel disease undergoing irradiation for abdominal and pelvic neoplasms

International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics, 2000

Purpose: Little data exists in the medical literature describing the response of patients with in... more Purpose: Little data exists in the medical literature describing the response of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to abdominal and pelvic irradiation. To clarify the use of this modality in this setting, this study assesses the short-and long-term tolerance of 28 patients with IBD to abdominal and pelvic irradiation. Methods and Materials: From 1970 to 1999, 28 patients with IBD (10 patients-Crohn's disease, 18 patientsulcerative colitis) were identified and underwent external beam abdominal or pelvic irradiation. Mean follow-up time after radiation therapy was 32 months. Patients were treated either by specialized techniques (16 patients) to minimize small and large bowel irradiation or by more conventional approaches (12 patients). Acute and late toxicity was scored. Results: The overall incidence of severe toxicity was 46% (13/28 patients). Six of 28 patients (21%) experienced severe acute toxicity necessitating cessation of radiation therapy. Late toxicity requiring hospitalization or surgical intervention was observed in 8 of 28 patients (29%). One patient experienced both an acute as well as late toxicity. For patients undergoing radiation therapy by conventional approaches, the 5-year actuarial rate of late toxicity was 73%. This figure was 23% for patients treated by specialized techniques (p ‫؍‬ 0.02). Conclusions: Because of the potentially severe toxicity experienced by patients with IBD undergoing abdominal and pelvic irradiation, judicious use of this modality must be employed. Definition of IBD location and activity as well as careful attention to irradiation technique may allow treatment of these patients with acceptable rates of morbidity.

Research paper thumbnail of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine and Mortality in Stages 3 to 4 Chronic Kidney Disease

Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 2009

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase, reduces bio... more Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase, reduces bioavailability of nitric oxide and induces endothelial dysfunction. This dimethylated amino acid accumulates in chronic kidney disease and may be involved in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in this population. The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study was a randomized, controlled trial conducted between 1989 and 1993. We measured ADMA in frozen samples collected at baseline (n = 820) and obtained survival status, up to December 31, 2000, from the National Death Index. We examined the relationship of ADMA with prevalent CVD and performed multivariable Cox models to examine the relationship of ADMA with all-cause and CVD mortality. Mean (SD) age was 52 (12) yr, GFR was 32 +/- 12 ml/min per 1.73 m(2), and ADMA was 0.70 +/- 0.25 micromol/L. A 1-SD increase in ADMA was associated with a 31% increased odds of prevalent CVD in an adjusted logistic regression model. During the 10-yr follow-up period, 202 (25%) participants died of any cause, 122 (15%) from CVD, and 545 (66%) reached kidney failure. In multivariable Cox models, a 1-SD increase in ADMA was associated with a 9% increased risk for all-cause and 19% increased risk for CVD mortality. In this cohort of patients with predominantly nondiabetic, stages 3 to 4 chronic kidney disease, there was a strong association of ADMA with prevalent CVD and a modest association with all-cause and CVD mortality.

Research paper thumbnail of Hyperlipidemia and Long-Term Outcomes in Nondiabetic Chronic Kidney Disease

Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 2010

Dyslipidemia confers a paradoxical survival advantage in patients with kidney failure. Data are l... more Dyslipidemia confers a paradoxical survival advantage in patients with kidney failure. Data are limited in the earlier stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). This was a cohort study in 840 subjects with stage 3 to 4 CKD enrolled in the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease study. Cox models were used to examine the relationship of total cholesterol (TC), non-HDL-cholesterol (NHDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) with all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and progression to kidney failure. During a mean follow-up of 10 years, there were 208 deaths, 128 deaths from CVD, and 554 subjects reached kidney failure. There was no association between tertiles of any of the lipid variables and mortality; the lowest HDL-C tertile (1.44, 1.18 to 1.78) had increased risk of kidney failure but covariate adjustment abolished this association. In analyses with lipids as continuous variables, there was a significant association with all-cause mortality for TC (hazard ratio [HR] per 10-mg/dl increase, 95% confidence intervals [CI] = 1.03, 1.0 to 1.06) that disappeared with covariate adjustment; there was no association of TG, HDL-C, and NHDL-C as continuous variables with all-cause or CVD mortality. There was a significant inverse association between HDL-C and kidney failure (HR = 0.93, CI = 0.87 to 0.99) in an unadjusted Cox model that was attenuated after adjustment for covariates (HR = 0.98 CI = 0.91 to 1.06). In this cohort, with predominantly nondiabetic CKD patients, hyperlipidemia is not an independent predictor of long-term outcomes.

Research paper thumbnail of Response to Letter Regarding Article, "Relationship Between Homocysteine and Mortality in Chronic Kidney Disease

Research paper thumbnail of Relationship Between Homocysteine and Mortality in Chronic Kidney Disease

Circulation, 2006

Background-The relationship between total homocysteine (tHcy) and outcomes has not been investiga... more Background-The relationship between total homocysteine (tHcy) and outcomes has not been investigated in patients with chronic kidney disease stages 3 to 4. Methods and Results-The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study was a randomized, controlled trial of 840 patients.