Nephrology
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Most laboratories are moving to report estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) formula. However, data on the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the population and its economic impact have to date been modelled using data derived from the modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) equation. Evaluating the impact of CKD-EPI on prevalence has important implications for referral patterns and health expenditure. ⋯ Introduction of routine eGFR reporting using the CKD-EPI formula will reduce the population prevalence of CKD. CKD-EPI reporting better identifies patients at risk of further decline in renal function. Improvement in the classification should reduce unnecessary costs related to surveillance and referral. The impact of ageing on renal function should be appreciated.
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To investigate the potential effects of berberine on renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) of obstructed kidneys in a unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) rat model. ⋯ Berberine treatment ameliorates RIF in a UUO rat model by inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and TGF-β1/pSmad3 signalling.