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Abstract We aimed to examine the effects of sodium and potassium intake on the risk of diabetes mellitus (DM). In a cohort of 99,552 working-age Korean adults (60,591 men; mean age 39.7 ± 6.9 and 38,961 women; mean age 38.4 ± 6.5), we longitudinally evaluated the risk of DM in relation to quartile levels of sodium intake, potassium intake, and the sodium-potassium ratio. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the risk of DM by calculating adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incident DM (adjusted HR [95% CI]). In men, sodium intake was not associated with the risk of DM (first quartile: reference, second quartile: 0.96 [0.87–1.07], third quartile: 0.94 [0.84–1.05], and fourth quartile: 1.02 [0.89–1.18]). Women did not show a significant association between sodium intake and the risk of DM (first quartile: reference, second quartile: 0.87 [0.69–1.09], third quartile: 1.02 [0.81–1.29], and fourth quartile: 1.01 [0.76–1.33]). Additionally, potassium intake and the sodium-potassium ratio were not significantly associated with the risk of DM in either men or women. In conclusion, no significant association was observed between sodium or potassium intake and the risk of DM among working-age Korean adults.

Abstract The study established experimental transects in undisturbed areas of the Caohai Nature Reserve in Weining, Guizhou Province. The study aims to examine complete successional transects in different landscapes: non-karst, karst, and vegetation restoration, using the spatiotemporal substitution method. It analyzes the distribution patterns of Total potassium (TK) and Avail potassium (AK) in the soil and employs a Generalized Linear Mixed Model (GLMM) to investigate the effects of geomorphology, soil aggregates, and their interactions on the changes in soil potassium(K) elements. Furthermore, it explores the synergistic effects of K cycling during the vegetation restoration process in karst soils. The findings indicated that: (1) In karst areas, the overall TK content was higher than in non-karst areas, while the AK content in the topsoil was higher in non-karst areas. The TK content in the karst areas tended to approach that of the vegetation restoration zone. (2) After restoration, the dominant plants changed from Gramineae to Gramineae + Asteraceae, and the vegetation richness increased, thereby improving the soil fertility and potassium fixation capacity. (3) The GLMM showed that the karst landscape had a significant effect on the TK and AK contents of surface soil. In the early stage of vegetation restoration, the joint effect of soil and vegetation affected the TK and AK contents in soil.

Abstract This cross-sectional study investigated the associations between urinary sodium (UNa) to potassium (UK) ratio, different phenotypes of elevated blood pressure (BP), and microalbuminuria (MAU) in a cohort of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS). Adult participants (n = 1782, mean age of 43.0 ± 13.7 years and 46.0% were men) were recruited (2015–2017) for measurements of spot urinary metabolites, i.e., Na, K, creatinine (Cr), microalbumin, and BP. Multinomial logistic regression was used to estimate the relative risk ratios (RRR) of elevated BP phenotypes [i.e., isolated systolic (ISH), diastolic (IDH), and systolic-diastolic (SDH) hypertension], and binary logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) of MAU across quintile categories and per each SD-increment of UNa-K ratio. Mean UNa, UK, and its ratio was 137 ± 57.4, 72.1 ± 36.6 mmol/L, and 2.31 ± 1.41, respectively. Subjects with UNa-K > 3.14 had higher prevalence of ISH (3.4 vs. 1.1%), SDH (11.0 vs. 6.2%), and MAU (14.1 vs. 6.2%) (P for all 3.14 vs.

Abstract Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease involving plaque biofilm as a pathogenic factor. Potassium ion plays an important role in cellular homeostasis; a large outflow of potassium may lead to local inflammation progression. In this work, the multifunctional short peptide molecule BmKTX-33 was designed by modifying the BmKTX, a Kv1.3 potassium channel inhibitor. This was to explore its antibacterial properties, capability of maintaining cell ion homeostasis, and bone-forming capacity. The results showed that BmKTX-33 had inhibitory effects on S. gordonii, F. nucleatum, and P. gingivalis. Moreover, BmKTX-33 also inhibited excessive potassium outflow in inflammatory environments. Finally, BmKTX-33 promoted MC3T3-E1 early osteogenesis while suppressing the NLRP3 inflammasome's production. In conclusion, BmKTX-33 not only has antibacterial properties, but also can inhibit the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome and play an anti-inflammatory role.

Background Urine electrolyte assessment is vital for diagnosing and managing neonatal conditions. However, the challenge of urine collection in neonates has resulted in a lack of standardized urine electrolyte reference values. Aim This study seeks to explore the reference levels and potential trends in serum and urine electrolytes to better understand how the kidneys handle these substances. Methods Healthy neonates were prospectively enrolled following normal births. Using biochemical methods, blood and urine samples were collected and analyzed on the 1st and 5th postnatal days. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test. Results This prospective study enrolled 55 healthy neonates. Significant changes in serum electrolyte concentrations were observed between the 1st and 5th days after birth. Notably, sodium, creatinine, urea nitrogen, and uric acid levels decreased, whereas potassium, calcium, and phosphate levels increased. Urine analysis revealed significant increases in the tubular maximum phosphate reabsorption per glomerular filtration rate and decreases in the fractional excretion of potassium and uric acid by Day 5. Conclusion This study challenges prevailing assumptions about the stability of neonatal urine electrolytes and highlights dynamic changes in the first postnatal week. These insights lay the groundwork for further research into electrolyte disorders in newborns and have potential implications for improving neonatal care practices.

Abstract To investgate the effects of potassium (K) application on the agronomic traits and fruit quality of Lycium barbarum L. (Goji), three levels of K fertilizer, namely LK (25 g/plant), CK (50 g/plant), and HK (75 g/plant), were applied to plants in phytotron for observing and measuring relevant indicators. The investigation involved seven agronomic traits: plant height, plant stem diameter, new branch increment, yield of fresh fruits per plant, dry fruit quantity within 50 g, ratio of different grade fruits, and ratio of longitudinal diameter to transverse diameter of Goji fruits. The results showed that K application level had significant effect on ratio of the longitudinal diameter to the transverse diameter of fresh Goji fruits, and that the influence on other agronomic traits was slight. In the meanwhile, the concentrations of amino acids, betaine, polysaccharides and flavonoids of Goji fruits in different levels of K fertilizer were tested. The K treatment increased the content of glutamic acid, and decreased that of flavonoids (P

Background: Potassium is one of the most abundant cations in the human body. Increased plasma potassium concentration (hyperkalemia) is one of the most common electrolyte abnormalities in contemporary clinical practice. Moderate and severe hyperkalemia are potentially life-threatening conditions and constitute medical emergencies. Measured hyperkalemia may be true hyperkalemia or false hyperkalemia (pseudohyperkalemia). Pseudohyperkalemia is due to false elevation of measured potassium concentration in vitro and it is a fairly common source of preanalytical error of potassium determination in the clinical laboratory. OBJECTIVE: To review the general and recent concepts/mechanisms that underlie the phenomenon of pseudohyperkalemia in contemporary clinical practice. Methods: An up-to-date review of available literature and selected references on the phenomenon of pseudohyperkalemia, its causes, variants, mechanisms, clinical implications, identification, management, and prevention. Conclusion: Pseudohyperkalemia is a fairly common preanalytical error of potassium measurement in the clinical laboratory and a potential cause of misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment of hyperkalemia. Exclusion of pseudohyperkalemia before the diagnosis of hyperkalemia (true hyperkalemia) is highly recommended.

Abstract Potassium testing is an essential test in emergency medicine. Turnaround time (TAT) is the time between specimen receipt by the laboratory and the release of the test report. A brief in-laboratory TAT increases emergency department effectiveness. Optimizing processes to shorten TAT using other tools requires extensive time, resources, training, and support. Therefore, we aimed to find a convenient way to shorten TAT, identify risk factors affecting the timeliness of emergency potassium test reporting, and verify the intervention’s effects. The dependent variable was emergency potassium reporting time > 30 or

Background: Cataract, a major cause of treatable blindness accounting for 80% of cases, arises from a complex etiology involving various factors. Diabetes notably expedites cataract development, and its potential interaction with electrolyte imbalances further enhances our understanding. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to explore the concentrations of electrolytes, specifically sodium (Na⁺) and potassium (K⁺), in both serum and aqueous humor, and their potential implications in the pathogenesis of cataracts among individuals with diabetes. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive observational study encompassed a cohort of 100 cases, equally divided into diabetic and non-diabetic cataract patients. Gender distribution and age groups were established, focusing on individuals aged 40 years and above. Serum sodium (Na⁺) and potassium (K⁺) levels were compared against reference ranges, and statistical analyses included an unpaired Student’s t-test and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 20 software. Results: Among diabetic cataract patients, serum sodium levels were notably elevated (149.2147±2.71 meq/L) compared to non-diabetic counterparts (145.04±2.25 meq/L), demonstrating high significance (P

Abstract Incorporating aggressive lifestyle modifications along with antihypertensive medication therapy is a crucial treatment strategy to enhance the control rate of hypertension. Dietary modification is one of the important lifestyle interventions for hypertension, and it has been proven to have a clear effect. Among food ingredients, sodium and potassium have been found to have the strongest association with blood pressure. The blood pressure-lowering effect of a low sodium diet and a high potassium diet has been well established, especially in hypertensive population. A high intake of potassium, a key component of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, has also shown a favorable impact on the risk of cardiovascular events. Additionally, research conducted with robust measurement methods has shown cardiovascular benefits of low-sodium intake. In this review, we aim to discuss the evidence regarding the relationship between the low sodium and high potassium diet and blood pressure and cardiovascular events. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Introduction The majority of patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) are at risk for at least one electrolyte abnormality and critically ill patients are the most vulnerable population to the effects of suboptimal electrolyte levels. These patients have unique characteristics impacting implications of the electrolyte disturbances and management. Areas Covered In the ICU, magnesium, potassium, calcium, phosphorous, and sodium are the most commonly encountered electrolytes that can be abnormal in the critically ill. Critical illness both is affected by and affects disturbances of these electrolytes which can result in more severe illness, longer duration of mechanical ventilation, increased dialysis support, longer length of stay, and increased mortality. Often, patients have multiple imbalances that require correction. Removal or mitigation of the cause should be undertaken whenever possible and should be concurrent with any therapeutic management used to correct the electrolyte imbalance. Selection of medication to correct electrolyte imbalances should be undertaken according to available evidence and drug-specific characteristics that impact medication delivery in the critically ill. Electrolyte disturbances, measurements, and corrections are ubiquitous in the ICU. Published literature on the management of electrolytes in the critically ill is limited. Management should consider factors unique to the critically ill when selecting optimal treatment approach and it is essential to individualize treatment to a patient’s unique needs and adapt management to the patient’s chancing clinical situation.

Background and purpose: Patients admitted at the intensive care unit (ICU) need blood draws for chemistry analytes and arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis. Repeated blood drawing is one of the most common causes of anemia in these group of patients. Measurement of analytes only by ABG analyzer can be beneficial for preventing anemia. The aim of this study was to compare the biochemical analytes in venous and ABG samples in ICU patients. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in 223 patients hospitalized in the ICU. These patients undergoing ABG analysis and simultaneous venous sampling. The value of Ca, Na, K, Hct, and glucose were measured in venous samples with a laboratory auto-analyzer and in arterial samples with an ABG analyzer. Results: The mean age of patients was 61.14±16.96 years. The mean difference between ABG and serum samples was 1.12 mEq/L for sodium, -0.29 mEq/L for potassium, -0.98 mg/dl for calcium, 0.33 mg/dl for glucose, and 4.39%% for hematocrit. In addition, 95% limit of agreement was -12.3 to 9 for sodium, -0.7 to 1.29 for potassium, -1.31 to 3.8 for calcium, -39.13 to 40.32 for glucose, and -13.5 to 8.5 for hematocrit. Conclusion: Because of acceptable agreement for sodium, potassium, and hematocrit, ABG analyzer can be used in ICU patients and emergency situations. There is a remarkable bias between the ABG-measured and laboratory-measured calcium and glucose, so the calcium and glucose measurement by the ABG analyzer are not reliable.

Quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) models are rarely applied prospectively for decision-making in clinical practice. We therefore aimed to operationalize a QSP model for potas-sium homeostasis to predict potassium trajectories based on spironolactone administrations. For this purpose, we proposed a general workflow that was applied to electronic health records (EHR) from patients treated in a German tertiary care hospital. The workflow steps included model exploration, local and global sensitivity analyses (SA), identifiability analysis (IA) of model parameters, and specification of their inter-individual variability (IIV). Patient covariates, selected parameters, and IIV then defined prior information for the Bayesian a posteriori prediction of individual potassium trajectories of the following day. Following these steps, the successfully operationalized QSP model was interactively explored via a Shiny app. SA and IA yielded five influential and estimable parameters (extracellular fluid volume, hyperaldosteronism, mineral corticoid receptor abundance, potassium intake, sodium intake) for Bayesian prediction. The operationalized model was validated in nine pilot patients and showed satisfactory performance based on the (absolute) average fold error. This provides proof-of-principle for a Prescribing Monitoring of potassium concentrations in a hospital system, which could suggest preemptive clinical measures and therefore potentially avoid dangerous hyperkalemia or hypokalemia.

Maintenance hemodialysis is one of the renal replacement therapy that end-stage renal disease patients mainly rely on. Dyskalemia is one of the most common metabolic complications in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. Both pre-dialysis hyperkalemia and hypokalemia during and after dialysis may contribute to a higher risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality in hemodialysis patients. The impact of serum potassium fluctuation has attracted widespread attention in recent years. Due to the intermittent nature of maintenance hemodialysis, patients are prone to frequent fluctuations of serum potassium. Potassium variability may be a better indicator to reflect potassium homeostasis, and large variability of potassiun is recognized as a potential risk factor for poor outcomes. In addition, the rapid fluctuation of serum potassium concentration during hemodialysis may increase the risk of malignant arrhythmia, sudden cardiac death and other poor outcomes. The gradient of serum and dialysate potassium is an important factor that influence the removal of potassium, which is also affected by other dialysate components. Therefore, strengthening the monitoring and management of serum potassium, selecting appropriate dialysate potassium concentration and individualizing dialysate prescription may be beneficial to maintain potassium homeostasis, reduce dyskalemia and improve prognosis. This review briefly expounds the feature of serum potassium level and discusses its effect on outcomes in patients with maintenance hemodialysis, emphasizing the relevance of potassium variation and prognosis in patients with maintenance hemodialysis and the impact of dialysate composition on potassium homeostasis.

Background Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease CKD cause different GFR declines (AKI). A gradual, irreversible decline in GFR is a CKD symptom. Diseases impair the kidneys’ ability to concentrate or dilute tubular filtrate, eliminate nitrogenous waste, and maintain acid-base balance. Acute kidney failure (AKF) is a sudden, reversible renal function loss requiring RRT. Chronic kid- ney disease has a 13.4% global prevalence and 1.2 million annual deaths. The Aim Serum creatinine, urea, potassium, chloride, calcium, sodium, and serum uric acid in CKD patients and healthy controls, and how these indicators vary with CKD development. Determination of some trace elements such as copper, zinc, and iron in the sera of patients. Materials and Methods The study included (30 healthy participants) and (60) patients with CKD (control). The participants in this study were people who traveled to Basrah Teaching Hospital aged 25 to 65. From Octo- ber 2020 to February 2021, specialized physicians examined each participant in this study at Basrah Teaching Hospital. Serum potassium, sodium, chloride, calcium, phosphorus, urea, uric acid, and serum creatinine were measured using kits. Results The current study results have shown a signif- icant increase (P < 0.01) in the following biomarkers in CKD patients: serum creatinine, urea, phosphorus, chlo- ride, uric acid, and Cystatin-C. The results also showed a significant decrease in levels following biomarkers in CKD patients: serum calcium and sodium. Conclusion Chronic renal disease raises serum creati- nine, urea, potassium, chloride, and uric acid. Chronic renal disease patients had lower calcium and sodium levels.

Background: Measuring electrolytes in the blood is considered one of the most common diagnostic techniques. Objectives: To assess sodium, potassium, zinc, and copper levels and examine the correlation between parameters and study their probable relation with hyperlipidemia in Babylon province. Materials and Methods: Sodium, potassium, zinc, and copper were estimated in one hundred subjects; 50 patients with hyperlipidemia and 50 healthy subjects participated in this study. The age of the patients and control groups ranged between 19 and 75 years. Sodium and potassium levels were assessed by colorimetric enzymatic technique, whereas the level of zinc and copper was assessed in serum by the flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometer method. Results: Serum levels of sodium and zinc displayed a significant decrease, whereas serum copper significantly elevated (P < 0.05) in hyperlipidemia patients compared with the control group. Serum potassium observed nonsignificant change (P-value > 0.05) in hyperlipidemia patients. On the other hand, copper and zinc correlated significantly with cholesterol, triglyceride, and sodium. Conclusion: Among hyperlipidemia patients in Babylon province, the variability in some trace elements and some electrolytes concentration indicate a significant relationship with hyperlipidemia.

Background and objective: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). The effects of COVID-19 on the thyroid axis remain uncertain. This study aimed to determine the occurrence of thyroid dysfunction, as previously demonstrated for SARS-CoV-1 infection, and to analyze electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and chloride) to determine the severity of the disease. Methods: Blood samples were taken from patients who were admitted to Erbil hospitals from July to October 2021. Infection was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The 306 cases were labeled as moderate or severe. The samples were assessed for doing C-reactive protein (CRP), as a marker of systemic inflammation, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), and (sodium, potassium, and chloride) electrolytes. Results: Patients comprised of 157 (51.3%) males and 149 (48.7%) females. The result revealed that 274 (89.5%), 278 (90.8%), 292 (95.4%) of patients had normal TSH, T3, T4 level respectively, 22 (7.2%), 23 (7.5%), 9 (2.9%) of patients had low TSH, T3, T4 level respectively, and 10 (3.3%), 5 (1.6%), 5 (1.6%), had high TSH, T3, T4 level respectively. There was no significant difference between moderate and severe cases in alterations of TSH, T3, T4 level. There was a significant difference between moderate and severe cases in sodium, potassium, and chloride electrolyte abnormality. Conclusion: The occurrence of thyroid dysfunction in moderate and severe cases. The severity of the COVID-19 infection is associated with abnormalities in sodium, calcium, and chloride electrolytes.

Background: The minimum physiological need for sodium is estimated to be 200-500 mg/day (about 0.5-1.25 g of salt per day) (WHO, 2012). Many studies have shown that salt consumption is the main factor in increasing blood pressure (BP) and cardiovascular disease cases. Methods and Results: This transversal cross-sectional study was performed in Kosovo in 2019. The study included 219 people of both sexes (49.9% men and 50.2% women) aged 20–59 years. Urine was collected within 24 hours in accordance with the written instructions, and an oral explanation was provided to each research participant. Na and K in urine were analyzed using SmartLyte® autoanalyzer (Diamond Diagnostics, Holliston, Massachusetts, USA). Our results showed that the average urinary Na excretion over 24 hours in the Kosovo population was 9.52 g/day, which corresponds to a daily salt intake of 23.8 g/day. The average amount of urinary Na excreted in 24 hours was significantly higher in men (11.60 g/24h) than in women (7.46 g/24h) (P

Objective: To study the variation in Serum Sodium and Potassium concentration in Pre-eclampsia and Normotensive pregnant ladies. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of the Study: Combined Military Hospital, Kharian District Gujrat Pakistan, from Jun 2020 to Jan 2021. Methodology: The study population Comprosed of 80 pre-eclamptic and 80 normotensive pregnant women recruited consecutively at their first, third trimester, and prenatal visits. Serum Sodium and Potassium were analysed using Ericson Photometer. Results: When the two Groups were compared, in the Normotensive Group, the mean Sodium concentration of 132±4.490 mEq/dl was significantly less than the Pre-eclampsia Group of 139.1±3.909 mEq/dl. On the contrary, mean Serum Potassium concentration was significantly less in Pre-eclampsia 3.54±0.511 mmol/L compared to the Normotensive Group to 4.0±0.513 mmol/L. Conclusion: High levels of Sodium and low level of Potassium were observed in the Pre-eclampsia Group. There may be a causal relationship between electrolyte fluctuations and Pre-eclampsia. Keywords: Electrolytes, Hypertension, Potassium, Pre-eclampsia, Sodium.

Potato is one of the most commonly consumed non-grain staple food crops in the world therefore, the mineral nutrient content of the potato is extremely important for human nutrition. The lack of mineral nutrients causes significant health problems, thus, many of these nutrients are often taken as supplements. This study was carried out to investigate the effects of potato flesh color and location on different mineral nutrient contents under Niksar, Kazova and Artova locations in Tokat Province, Turkey, during 2013 and 2014 potato growing seasons. The experimental design in each location was randomized blocks with three replications. In this study, a total of 67 clones (including varieties and advanced breeding selections) with nine white, 10 cream, 30 light yellow, and 18 dark yellow flesh colors were used. Potatoes with cream flesh colors had the highest K (23.81 g kg−1), P (0.31 g kg−1), Mg (1.20 g kg−1), Zn (27.26 mg kg−1), Cu (8.28 mg kg−1) and Mn (7.21 mg kg−1) contents, and the lowest Ca (45.6 mg kg−1) content. The mineral contents (except K and Cu) of potatoes grown in Artova were higher compared to the other two locations. The results clearly suggested that Artova is the most suitable location to produce potatoes with a high mineral composition, and Kazova is suitable to cultivate potatoes with high K and Cu contents. In addition, the knowledge of nutrient rich potato accessions is valuable for developing biofortified potato genotypes.

Background: Succinylcholine with quick onset, ultra short duration of action, and complete predictable paralysis has been the best drug for endotracheal intubation but the occurrence of side effects such as muscle fasciculations, postoperative myalgia, rise in serum potassium levels and myoglobinuria limits its use in the full stomach, burns, massive trauma, metabolic acidosis, and few myopathies. For attenuation of these effects, many drugs have been studied but pre-treatment with non-depolarizing muscle relaxant found to be successful. Aims and Objectives: This study was designed to assess the effect of Rocuronium and Vecuronium pre-treatment on post-succinylcholine fasciculations, rise in serum potassium levels, and postoperative myalgia. Materials and Methods: 100 patients between the age of 20–50 years of either sex (American Society of Anaesthesiologists grade I and II) undergoing general anesthesia for various surgical procedures were randomly allocated into two groups according to pre-treatment with Rocuronium (Group R) and Vecuronium (Group V) before Succinylcholine administration. After Succinylcholine administration severity of fasciculations, rise in serum potassium after 5 min and myalgia on postoperative days 1, 2, and 3 were recorded. Results: About 74% patients had no fasciculation in Group R as compared to 36% in group V. Statistically insignificant (P>0.05) rise in serum potassium level was observed in both groups. Higher number of patients had mild-to-moderate degree of myalgia with Vecuronium on postoperative days 2 and 3. Conclusion: Pre-treatment with Rocuronium before Succinylcholine provided better attenuation of post-succinylcholine muscle fasciculations, postoperative myalgia with statistically insignificant rise in serum potassium levels.

Abstract A 75‐year‐old man was admitted with a diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperkalemia. During the treatment, he developed refractory hyperkalemia. Following our review, diagnosis of pseudohyperkalaemia secondary to thrombocytosis was made. We report this case to remind the importance of clinical suspicion of this phenomenon to prevent its serious consequences.

A third of the global population relies heavily upon traditional or folk medicines, such as the African shrub Mallotus oppositifolius. Here, we used pharmacological screening and electrophysiological analysis in combination with in silico docking and site-directed mutagenesis to elucidate the effects of M. oppositifolius constituents on KCNQ1, a ubiquitous and influential cardiac and epithelial voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channel. Two components of the M. oppositifolius leaf extract, mallotoxin (MTX) and 3-ethyl-2-hydroxy-2-cyclopenten-1-one (CPT1), augmented KCNQ1 current by negative shifting its voltage dependence of activation. MTX was also highly effective at augmenting currents generated by KCNQ1 in complexes with native partners KCNE1 or SMIT1; conversely, MTX inhibited KCNQ1-KCNE3 channels. MTX and CPT1 activated KCNQ1 by hydrogen bonding to the foot of the voltage sensor, a previously unidentified drug site which we also find to be essential for MTX activation of the related KCNQ2/3 channel. The findings elucidate the molecular mechanistic basis for modulation by a widely used folk medicine of an important human Kv channel and uncover novel molecular approaches for therapeutic modulation of potassium channel activity.

Background and purpose: There are controversies on the association between electrolytes and Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and its severity. Studies on these issues may help in resolving ambiguities. The purpose of this study was to assess the association between electrolyte indices and being infected with COVID-19 and developing severe symptoms using a meta-analysis. Materials and methods: A thorough search was done in national and international electronic databases using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms. Quality assessment was conducted by Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) checklist. We estimated the standardized mean difference between electrolyte indices and the incident of COVID-19 infection and its severity. Results: After screening the papers, 12 met the inclusion criteria. According to the meta-analysis results, the standardized mean differences for serum level of sodium and potassium between the dead and survived COVID-19 patients was estimated to be 0.22 (95% CI: -0.03, 0.46) and 0.14 (95% CI: -0.22, 0.50), respectively. The standardized mean differences for serum levels of sodium, calcium, and potassium between patients with severe and non-severe COVID-19 were estimated to be -0.28 (95% CI: -0.72, 0.17), -1.07(95% CI: -1.58, -0.55), and -0.10 (95% CI: -0.47, 0.27), respectively. Conclusion: In this meta-analysis, the standardized mean difference for calcium was significantly lower in severe COVID-19 patients compared to that in patients with mild and moderate forms of the disease.

Background: Succinylcholine has been extensively used for endotracheal intubation because of its ultrashort duration of action, quick onset with complete and predictable paralysis. However, the occurrence of some side effects like post injection fasciculations, postoperative myalgia, and increase in serum potassium levels limits its use in some situations like burns, myopathies, and myoglobinuria. For attenuation of these effects, many drugs have been studied but with limited success. Aims and objectives: To evaluate the role of vitamin C on attenuation of post-suxamethonium myalgia and increase in serum potassium levels. Materials and methods: Seventy-five females of American Society of Anaesthesiologists grade I and II and aged 20 to 50 years undergoing general anesthesia for various short surgical procedures were randomly allocated into three groups. Induction of anesthesia was performed with injection thiopentone 5 mg/kg body weight and suxamethonium 50 mg in all three groups. In group I, no drug was administered before induction of anesthesia. In group II, 500 mg tablet of vitamin C was administered twice orally a day before and on the day of surgery half an hour before induction of anesthesia. In group III, vitamin C 500 mg was administered intravenously in 50 ml saline half an hour before induction of anesthesia. The absence or presence of muscle pains and fasciculations were noted and if present, then their severity was also estimated. Serum potassium levels were measured in the venous samples collected just before induction and at 5-minute interval after the administration of suxamethonium. Patients were observed for myalgia on postoperative days 1, 2, and 3. Results: The patients receiving vitamin C had a little reduction in the incidents but marked reduction in severity of muscle pains and fasciculation. Furthermore, the administration of vitamin C markedly delayed the onset of muscle pains. There was no effect of vitamin C pretreatment on serum potassium levels. Conclusion: Pretreatment with vitamin C 500 mg may be useful in reduction of severity of post- suxamethonium myalgia.

Background & aims: Previous evidence varied on the relationship of dietary sodium, potassium, sodium/potassium, and salt with cognitive function. This study aimed to explore the associations of sodium, potassium, sodium/potassium, and salt intakes with cognitive function among the elderly in China. Methods: Data were accessed from the database of the 1997–2006 China Health and Nutrition Survey, including 4213 participants aged at least 50 years at baseline. Dietary data at individual and household levels were collected using the method of 24-h dietary recall in three consecutive days. Cognitive function was measured through objective and subjective methods. Linear regression models and multinomial logistic regression models were established to elucidate the association of dietary sodium, potassium, sodium/potassium, and salt with cognitive function. Mediation effect analysis and substitution analysis were also conducted. Results: Higher potassium intakes in Q3 (Median: 1653.3 g/day, β = 1.366, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.845 to 1.887) and Q4 (Median: 2181.4 g/day, β = 1.454, 95% CI: 0.865 to 2.044) were significantly associated with higher cognitive test score compared with Q1 (Median: 1053.7 g/day). Sodium/potassium intake in Q3 (Median: 3.8, β = −0.791, 95% CI: -1.264 to −0.317) and Q4 (Median: 5.5, β = −0.909, 95% CI: -1.401 to −0.417) were inversely associated with the cognitive test score compared with Q1 (Median: 2.0). Higher dietary sodium and sodium/potassium intakes were associated with a higher risk of a self-reported poor and deteriorated memory during the past 12 months. Additionally, higher potassium intakes were significantly associated with a lower risk of deteriorated memory. The associations of dietary potassium and sodium/potassium were mediated by CCVD, and average cognitive test score increased by about 1 point after replacing 1000 mg/day of sodium with an equal intake of potassium. Conclusions: Restricting sodium and increasing potassium, and keeping the balance of dietary sodium and potassium are encouraged to prevent cognitive decline and dementia in the elderly.

Announcement of manuscript withdrawal: The author has voluntarily submitted a request for retraction of the published manuscript. Based on these considerations, the editorial board decided to permanently withdraw this manuscript from circulation, both in print and online.

Sepsis and electrolyte disturbances are frequently experienced among acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) patients. It is characterized by organ failure brought on by unbalanced host response to infection. A 63-year-old male presented to the hospital with the complaint of breathlessness with the oxygen saturation of 76%. The leukocyte level increased to 19.000 and the Potassium level decreased to 2.88. The combination of antibiotics, Potassium supplement, oxygen support through NRM of 15 liters per minute and symptomatic treatment were administered to the patient. The NRM was then changed to HFNC due to his worsening condition and successfully decreased oxygen demand. The patient’s condition has made a significant improvement after seven days of hospitalization. Patients with AECOPD are at higher risk of developing sepsis and electrolyte disturbances. Sepsis will change the biological system of the body due to different pathophysiology such as electrolyte imbalance and obviously engaged with the pathogenesis of ensuing regular intensifications. It is important for the clinicians to know the effective management for the patient, so that the critical phase can be passed even at the limited facilities.

Abstract Objective This study aims to evaluate the correlation between electrolytes and serial miRNAs from our previous study. We want to prove that there is the molecular basis that underlying electrolytes disturbances as the predictive indicator to the outcome in NSCLC patients. Results There were positive correlation between potassium level with miR-34 (p = 0.008, r = 0.366), miR-148 (p = 0.004, r = 0.394) and miR-155 (p = 0.031, r = 0.300).

Background The potassium ion (K+) plays an important role in maintaining plant growth and development, while excess potassium in the soil can cause stress to plants. The understanding of the molecular mechanism of plant’s response to high KCl stress is still limited. Methods At the seed stage, wild type (WT) and SENSITIVE TO SALT1 (SES1) mutants were exposed to different concentrations of potassium treatments. Tolerance was assayed as we compared their performances under stress using seedling establishment rate and root length. Na+content, K+content, and K+/Na+ ratio were determined using a flame atomic absorption spectrometer. In addition, the expressions of KCl-responding genes and ER stress-related genes were also detected and analyzed using qRT-PCR. Results SES1 mutants exhibited seedling establishment defects under high potassium concentration conditions and exogenous calcium partially restored the hypersensitivity phenotype of ses1 mutants. The expression of some K+ transporter/channel genes were higher in ses1-2, and the ratio of potassium to sodium (K+/Na+) in ses1-2 roots decreased after KCl treatment compared with WT. Further analysis showed that the ER stress marker genes were dramatically induced by high K+ treatment and much higher expression levels were detected in ses1-2, indicating ses1-2 suffers a more serious ER stress than WT, and ER stress may influence the seedling establishment of ses1-2 under high KCl conditions. Conclusion These results strongly indicate that SES1 is a potassium tolerance relevant molecule that may be related to maintaining the seedling K+/Na+ balance under high potassium conditions during seedling establishment and post-germination growth. Our results will provide a basis for further studies on the biological roles of SES1 in modulating potassium uptake, transport, and adaptation to stress conditions.

Abstract Background Hypokalemia has been rarely attributed to tizanidine, although the precise mechanism is unclear. Severe hypokalemia is a well-established cause of abnormalities involving cardiac conduction. Given this agent’s well-known cardiac arrhythmogenic potential, awareness of potential concomitant electrolyte abnormalities is important. Case presentation Electrolyte disorders, including hypokalemia, are rare complications of the antispasmodic medicine tizanidine when taken in doses as outlined by the manufacturer’s prescribing instructions. Although cases of severe hypokalemia have also been described in the literature in association with this agent, such reports are few. We report a Caucasian case of an intentional overdose involving a very large ingestion of tizanidine. In addition to the characteristic abnormalities on the electrocardiogram, our patient developed electrolyte derangements as well as self-limited acute kidney injury. These biochemical abnormalities included profound hypokalemia that was refractory to aggressive replacement over the ensuing several days, before eventually dissipating. A thorough assessment of the etiology of this hypokalemia was consistent with a defect in renal potassium handling. Conclusion In our patient with intentional tizanidine overdose, severe and refractory hypokalemia appears to have been due to a transient potassium wasting nephropathy.

Introduction. Healthy nutrition is the most important component of the quality of life, which is understood as an integral indicator of the mental, physical and social functioning of a person. However, the diet of Russians is not enough vegetables and fruits, dairy products, excess sugar, salt, products containing animal fat and trans fats. Violations of the structure of nutrition, nutritional status lead to the development of alimentary-dependent diseases, primarily cardiovascular, and in particular, arterial hypertension.Goal. Study of alimentary risk factors for arterial hypertension.Materials and methods. The data of the survey of VTSIOM and the company Gideon Richter “Food habits of Russians”, September 2020”, conducted by telephone survey in at least 80 regions (1,600 respondents over 18 years old), are analyzed.Results and discussion. The diet of the adult population of Russia is characterized by a high consumption of animal fat (frequent consumption of fatty dairy products-52% of respondents, butter-61%, sausage products-48%), salt (pickles and marinades – 42%), added sugar (confectionery – 47%) with a lack of fruit, fish and seafood. 23% of respondents add salt to ready meals, and 43% use frying when cooking. Arterial hypertension was noted in 52% of respondents, who, compared to normotonics, less often (32-39%) include in their diet foods that are sources of potassium and magnesium (apricots, bananas, dried fruits, nuts, seeds, etc.), and more often-pickles, marinades (47%) and mayonnaise (45%), containing a large amount of salt, as well as add salt to ready meals (24%).Conclusions. In order to prevent arterial hypertension in Russians, it is necessary to increase their intake of potassium and magnesium, limit the content of table salt in the diet, which will be facilitated by the widespread introduction of educational programs on healthy nutrition.

Hypokalaemia has a wide scale of causes. The most common ones include potassium loss from urinary tract, gastrointestinal system and loss through sweating. This report is about a young 24-year-old Indian female who presented with sudden onset weakness of all four limbs which was found to be secondary to hypokalaemia. Refractory hypokalaemia and severe metabolic acidosis in this patient led to further work-up, which revealed positive Anti-SSA (anti-Sjögren’s-syndrome-related antigen A autoantibodies), AntiSSB Anti-Sjögren’s syndrome type B and Anti-snRNP (Small nuclear ribonucleoprotein), strongly suggestive of secondary Sjögren’s syndrome. Renal involvement with distal Renal Tubular Acidosis (RTA) causing hypokalaemia is seen in 10% of cases with Sjögren’s syndrome. Thus, this report highlights the unusual initial presentation of hypokalaemic paresis in a patient with Sjögren’s syndrome, and to emphasise that an autoimmune disorder should be considered in such presentations.

Abstract Background Current evidence regarding the prognostic relevance of urinary sodium-to-potassium ratio (Na-to-K ratio), as an indicator of diet quality is limited. This study was conducted to investigate whether urinary Na-to-K ratio could be related to habitual dietary patterns, in a general population. Methods This study was conducted in the framework of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2014–2017) on 1864 adult men and women. Urinary Na and K concentrations were measured in the morning spot urine samples. Dietary intakes of the participants were assessed using a validated 147-item Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and major dietary patterns were obtained using principal component analysis. Mediterranean dietary pattern and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) score, were also calculated. Multivariable-adjusted linear regression was used to indicate association of dietary patterns and urinary Na-to-K ratio. Results Mean (± SD) age of participants was 43.7 ± 13.9 years and 47% were men. Mean (± SD) urinary Na, K and the ratio was 139 ± 41.0 and 57.9 ± 18.6 mmol/L, 2.40 ± 0.07, respectively. Higher urinary Na-to-K ratio (> 2.37 vs.

AbstractBackground Biomarkers of oxidative stress (OS) have been poorly explored in fungal peritonitis (FP). Potassium is a regulator of pro-oxidants and antioxidants. Albumin and vitamin B12 (B12) are vital antioxidant agents in the circulatory system. This study aimed to investigate the antioxidative role of serum potassium, albumin and B12 in FP.Methods Serum levels of potassium, albumin and B12 were retrospectively analyzed in 21 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of FP, 105 bacterial peritonitis (BP) patients and 210 patients receiving peritoneal dialysis without peritonitis.Results Serum levels of potassium, albumin and B12 were lower in FP patients than in BP patients. Serum potassium concentration was statistically related to albumin concentration in peritonitis patients. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analysis suggested that serum level of potassium and albumin were independent risk factors of FP when compared with BP. Lower potassium and B12 levels were independently associated with higher rates of technique failure in peritonitis.Conclusion These findings suggest lower serum potassium, albumin and B12 as potential oxidative stress markers of FP and raise the hypothesis that an increased level of OS could contribute to FP.KEY MESSAGESFP remains a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD), with higher morbidity (1–23.8%) and mortality (2–25%), and oxidative stress plays a role in it.Our study suggested serum potassium, albumin and vitamin B12 as potential oxidative stress markers of fungal peritonitis.

According to a number of studies, patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVD) have an increased risk of adverse course and death from COVID-19. The deficiency in the daily consumption of micronutrients, especially potassium and magnesium, is considered to be a non-infectious "epidemic" of the 21st century. The paper presents the results of studies indicating an increased risk of developing CVD (arterial hypertension, ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, stroke, arrhythmias) and mortality from them in the presence of a deficiency in the consumption of potassium and magnesium, as well as their reduced content in the body. It provides an overview of published data on the importance of maintaining normal levels of potassium and magnesium in the body to reduce CVD risk and mortality.

In heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), four classes of drugs (β-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and the most recent Sodium–Glucose Co-Transporters 2 Inhibitors) have demonstrated positive results in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Nevertheless, the latest RCTs are not proper for comparison since they were carried out at various times with dissimilar background therapies and the patients enrolled did not have the same characteristics. The difficulty of extrapolating from these trials and proposing a common framework appropriate for all cases is thus obvious. Despite the fact that these four agents are now the fundamental pillars of HFrEF treatment, the built-up algorithm of initiation and titration is a matter of debate. Electrolyte disturbances are common in HFrEF patients and can be attributed to several factors, such as the use of diuretics, renal impairment, and neurohormonal activation. We have identified several HFrEF phenotypes according to their sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) status in a “real world” setting and suggest an algorithm on how to introduce the most appropriate drug and set up therapy based on the patients’ electrolytes and the existence of congestion.

Increasing potassium and reducing sodium intake have been identified as a priority intervention to reduce non-communicable diseases. A low sodium high potassium (LSHP) healthy diet can be a predictor of overall dietary quality and is associated with higher diet costs. The present study was a randomised controlled-feeding trial, formulating menus of low sodium and potassium-rich healthy diet and comparing with usual diet (a control diet based on typical Indonesian diet) to assess the association of potassium intake in the menus with other nutritional contents and diet cost. Totally seventy menus, which consisted of LSHP diets and the usual diets for a 7-d cycle, were composed from the analysis of the Indonesian food composition database. The correlation coefficient of the potassium content of all menus with nutritional quality and diet cost was analysed using the Pearson test. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to determine the most important nutrient in determining diet cost. A comparison of nutrition quality and diet cost from the two menus was analysed using the independent t-test. LSHP diet had significantly higher carbohydrate, protein, fibre, magnesium, calcium, vitamin C, potassium density and diet cost but lower total fat, saturated fat and energy density than the usual diet (P < 0⋅05). Furthermore, there was a strong positive correlation between fibre, potassium and diet cost (coefficient correlation of >0⋅8). Potassium is a nutrient that is closely related to diet quality although the cost of the diet often may inhibit its intake. A targeted and effective strategy is required to provide affordable food for achieving a sustainable nutrient-rich diet.

Background: Potential dietary strategies for controlling hyperphosphataemia include the use of protein sources with lower phosphorus bioavailability such as pulses and nuts, focus on phosphorus to protein ratios and the avoidance of all phosphate additives. Methods: We conducted a controlled crossover feeding study in 8 haemodialysis (HD) patients to investigate the acute postprandial effect of a modified versus standard low phosphorus diet for one day on serum phosphate, potassium and intact parathyroid levels in prevalent HD patients. Each participant consumed the modified diet on one day and the standard diet on a second day one week apart. The modified diet included beef and less dairy, with a lower phosphorus to protein ratio, as well as plant-based protein, whole grains, pulses and nuts containing phytates which reduces phosphorus bioavailability. Both diets were tailored for each participant to provide 1.1g protein/kg ideal body weight. Participants provided fasting bloods before breakfast, a pre-prandial sample before the lunch time main meal and samples at one-hour intervals for the four hours after the lunch time main meal, for analysis of phosphate, potassium and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH). Results: At four hours post the lunch time main meal on each study day, individuals on the modified diet had serum phosphate readings 0.30 mmol/l lower than when on the standard diet (p-value = 0.015, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.57, -0.04). The corresponding change in serum potassium at four hours was a decrease of 0.675 mmol/l (p-value = 0.011, CI -1.25, -0.10). Conclusions: Decreases in both serum phosphate and serum potassium readings on a modified low phosphorus diet encourage further larger studies to explore the possibility of greater food choice and healthier plant-based diets in HD patients. ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT04845724 (15/04/2021)

Disseminated tuberculosis (TB) is a mycobacterial infection in which the mycobacteria have spread from the lungs to other parts of the body through the blood or lymph system. We report a 38-year-old patient who presented with fever and severe weakness for five days. His initial workup in the emergency room showed severe hypokalemia resistant to multiple doses of potassium replacement. The patient later showed features of meningitis. His cerebrospinal fluid analysis confirmed tuberculous meningitis. After starting on anti-tuberculous medications, his hypokalemia improved significantly. Sputum culture was positive for TB, and the patient labeled as disseminated TB. Despite severe hypokalemia being a rare association with TB, disseminated TB can be considered the possible cause in patients presenting with severe hypokalemia and fever. Renal tubular defect could be the proposed mechanism causing potassium losing nephropathy.

Introduction: Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (AECOPD) is a common health problem coupled with huge mortality and morbidity across the world. Acute exacerbation in COPD patients leads to electrolyte disturbances. Routinely, electrolytes are measured from venous blood. Electrolytes can also be measured from whole blood by blood gas analyser along with blood gases measurement. Aim: To study the correlation between venous and arterial blood electrolytes in AECOPD patients. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory, Government Medical College and Sir Takhtsinhji General Hospital, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, India, from December 2013 to May 2014. Arterial and venous blood were taken at same time from 150 patients of AECOPD and analysed for electrolytes (sodium, potassium and ionised calcium) in arterial blood gas analyser. Correlation of arterial and venous blood electrolyte levels was done by Pearson’s correlation. Results: This study comprised 109 (72.67%) male and 41 (27.33%) female AECOPD patients. Mean age of subjects was 59.01±11.42 years. Mean level of arterial sodium was 143.1±8.81 mmol/L and venous sodium was 144.8±8.47 mmol/L (p-value=0.0973). Mean level of arterial potassium was 3.53±0.73 mmol/L and venous potassium was 3.19±0.56 mmol/L (p-value

South Africa implemented legislation in June 2016 mandating maximum sodium (Na) levels in processed foods. A pre-post impact evaluation assessed whether the interim legislative approach reduced salt intake and blood pressure. Baseline Na intake was assessed in a nested cohort of the WHO Study on global AGEing and adult health (WHO-SAGE) Wave 2 (Aug-Dec 2015). 24-hour urine samples were collected in a random subsample (n = 1,299; of which n = 750 were considered valid (volume ≥ 300 mL and creatinine ≥ 4 mmol/day (women) or ≥ 6 mmol/day (men))). Follow-up urine samples were collected in Wave 3 (Jun 2018-Jun 2019), with replacements included for those lost to follow-up (n = 1,189; n = 548 valid). In those aged 18 − 49y, median salt intake was 7.8 (4.7, 12.0) g/day in W2 (n = 274), remaining similar in the W3 sample (7.7 (4.9, 11.3) g salt/day (n = 92); P = 0.569). In older adults (50 + y), median salt intake was 5.8 (4.0, 8.5) g/day (n = 467) in W2, and 6.0 (4.0, 8.6) g/day (n = 455) in W3 (P = 0.721). Controlling for differences in background characteristics, overall salt intake dropped by 1.15 g/day (P = 0.028). 24hr urinary Na concentrations from a countrywide South African sample suggest that salt intakes have dropped during the interim phase of mandatory sodium legislation. Further measurement of population level salt intake following stricter Na targets, enforced from June 2019, is necessary.

Background. It is known that electrolyte exchange parameters are subject to the regulatory effects of a wide range of nerve, hormonal and humoral factors. The dispersion of electrolyte levels in plasma, erythrocytes and diurnal urine, first, is different, and second, variable. Therefore, there are a number of quantitative and even qualitatively different variants of the exchange of electrolytes. It is logical to assume that such diversity is conditioned by the state of the regulatory systems and/or the balance between the entering and excretion of electrolytes. We have set a goal in experiments in rats and clinical physiological observations to identify a number of variants of the state of exchange of electrolytes and their neuro-endocrine, humoral and immune support. In this article we summarize the first stage of the path to the goal. Materials and methods. Experiment was performed on 58 healthy female Wistar rats 220-300 g. Among them 10 animals remained intact, using tap water from drinking ad libitum. The rats of others groups for 6 days administered through the tube various fluids at a dose of 1,5 mL/100 g. The day after the completion of the drinking course in all rats the plasma and urine levels of the electrolytes were determined. Results. The method of cluster analysis identifies four variants of the state of electrolyte exchange. Characteristic features of the members of the major (51,7%) cluster are a moderate decrease in excretion with daily urine of sodium and chloride as well as calcium and potassium plasma levels in combination with a moderate increase in magnesium excretion. In the members of the second largest cluster (22,4%), a similar decrease in the plasma level of potassium and calcium is combined with a slight decrease in the content of potassium in erythrocytes and a decrease in its excretion with the urine. Electrolyte exchange of the third largest cluster (19,0%) is characterized by a moderate increase in the excretion of sodium and chloride and a slight increase in the excretion of potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphate, as well as the content of potassium in erythrocytes. Finally, the minor cluster (6,9%) differs from others by drastically increasing sodium excretion, a significant increase in the excretion of chloride, calcium and phosphate, as well as the sodium content of erythrocytes in combination with a decrease in calcium (moderate), phosphate and chlorine (slight) plasma levels. Conclusion. Four quantitatively and qualitatively different variants of the exchange of electrolytes are revealed, which is caused, apparently, by different state of neuro-endocrine regulation.

Background: With more than 40 years of research on the effects of glucose-insulin-potassium (GIK) solution on the clinical consequences of heart surgery, its use and impact are still challenging, Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of GIK solution on clinical outcomes after pediatric heart surgeries with cardiopulmonary bypass. Methods: This clinical trial study was performed on 49 patients undergoing cardiac surgery by using cardiopulmonary bypass in children aged younger than 12 years in Shahid Chamran hospital, Isfahan, Iran. Patients were divided into two groups of GIK (25 people) and control (24 people). The GIK group received GIK solution, and the control group received normal saline solution. Arrhythmia, the frequency of taking insulin and adrenaline drugs, the need for cardiac shock, hospitalization and intensive care unit (ICU) time, and blood pressure were recorded in both groups. Data were analyzed using independent t, chi-square, and repeated measures ANOVA tests. Findings: The use of GIK solution significantly reduced the need for postoperative shock, the frequency of arrhythmia, duration of hospitalization, and the amount of inotrope drugs in comparison with the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: According to the results of the study, the use of GIK solution during cardiac surgery can reduce clinical outcomes such as hospitalization and ICU time, the need for cardiac shock, and arrhythmia after open-heart surgery in pediatric patients.

Introduction: Potassium is critical cation in physiological functions. Hyperkalemia is a common electrolyte disorder, defined as potassium level above 5,5 mmol/L. Knowledge of the basic rules of hyperkalemia management is crucial to every doctor. Purpose: Systemic review of causes, symptoms and treatment of hyperkalemia. Material and methods: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed database was carried out. Description of the state of knowledge: The causes of hyperkalemia are different and mostly result from impaired urinary potassium excretion due to acute or chronic kidney disease. The symptoms of hyperkalemia vary and usually affect skeletal muscles, myocardium and central nervous system. Treatment of hyperkalemia depends on the presence or absence of symptoms, the severity of potassium elevation and the cause of hyperkalemia. Therefore, management with the patient with hyperkalemia includes careful interview, evaluation of clinical symptoms, ECG and searching for possible causes of disorders. Summary: Hyperkalemia requires urgent therapeutic intervention. In each case of elevated potassium concentration ECG should be performed and the obtained laboratory result should be verified. The crucial point in hyperkalemia treatment is the shift of potassium to the cells and simultaneously the removal of potassium from the body.

Aim of the research. To analyze specialized scientific literature to summarize data on modern views on the features of the etiopathogenetic role of disorders of the neuroendocrine regulation of water-salt metabolism, the clinical course and the effect on the reproductive function of women, as well as to study data on modern methods of prevention and correction of electrolyte disorders. Conclusions. Thus, as a result of the progress of civilization, global environmental changes are occurring. In such adverse environmental conditions, the water-salt metabolism of a woman’s body is of particular importance, which is supported by the flow of water and minerals and their release. In the practice of a physician, it is important to understand the characteristics of the etiopathogenetic role of impaired neuroendocrine regulation of water-salt metabolism, the clinical course and the effect on a woman’s reproductive function. An accurate forecast of the development of water-salt metabolism disorders in the in vitro fertilization program will highlight a group of high-risk patients for the development of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, develop an individual approach to the implementation of drug stimulation schemes for ovulation and preventive measures to disrupt water-salt metabolism, increase the effectiveness of assisted reproductive technology programs, including including optimization of indications for embryotransfer and planning of cryoembryotransfer in delayed modified cycles.

Background This study aimed to gain an understanding of the growth response of Phyllostachys edulis (moso bamboo) seedlings to nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) to benefit nutrient management practices and the design of proper fertilizer in nursery cultivation. Methods An orthogonal array L8(4×24) was used to study the effects of N forms (NH4+, NO3−), N concentrations (8, 32 mmol/L), and K+concentrations (0, 0.5, 1.5, 3 mmol/L) on seedling height, leaf number, chlorophyll content (SPAD value), biomass, root systems, and N content of P. edulis seedlings. Plants were grown in vermiculite under controlled greenhouse conditions. Results Our study showed that N form played a significant role in the overall performance of P. edulis seedlings, followed by the effect of N and K+ concentrations. Among the N forms, NH4+ significantly improved the growth of P. edulis seedlings compared with NO3−. Seedling height, leaf number, chlorophyll SPAD value, biomass, and root system architecture (root length, root surface area, root volume, and root tips) were greater with 8 mmol/L of NH4+ treatments than with 32 mmol/L of NH4+treatments, whereas root diameter and N content of P. edulis seedlings were higher with 32 mmol/L of NH4+ than with 8 mmol/L of NH4+. K displayed inconsistent effects on the growth of P. edulis seedlings. Specifically, seedling height, leaf number, biomass and root volume increased when the K+ concentration was increased from 0 to 0.5 mmol/L, followed by a decrease when the K+ concentration was further increased from 0.5 to 3 mmol/L. Root average diameter of the seedlings was the highest with a K+ concentration of 1.5 mmol/L, and K had some inhibitory effects on the chlorophyll SPAD value of the seedlings. P. edulis seedlings performed well with 8 mmol/L NH4+and further tolerated a higher concentration of both NH4+ and NO3−, although excessive N could inhibit seedling growth. A lower concertation of K (≤ 0.5 mmol/L) promoted seedling growth and increasing K+ concentration in the nutrient solution did not alleviate the inhibitory effect of high N on the growth of P. edulis seedlings. Therefore, NH4+nitrogen as the main form of N fertilizer, together with a low concertation of K+, should be supplied in the cultivation and nutrient management practices of moso bamboo.

Potassium is a major intracellular cation affecting tonicity and regulating intracellular processes such as protein/glycogen synthesis and carbohydrate metabolism and partially responsible for maintaining the potential difference across the membrane, particularly in excitable tissues such as nerve and muscle. Of all the electrolytes, a rapid change in potassium concentration is life-threatening. Hypokalemia is a common electrolyte disturbance, especially in hospitalized patients. Severe hypokalemia is life-threatening and requires urgent medical attention. It may trigger dangerous arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation and tachycardia, leading to cardiac arrest. It leads to neuromuscular weakness prolonging weaning in mechanically ventilated patients and also contributes to paralytic ileus. The body maintains serum potassium concentration within very narrow limits through tightly regulated feedback and feedforward systems. Understanding the physiology of potassium homeostasis and diverse etiologies of hypokalemia spanning from error in sample collection, endocrine abnormalities, renal tubular acidosis, and many more may guide toward the appropriate treatment of hypokalemia.

Aim: The primary aim of the present study was to detect whether blood gases analyzer (BGA) is reliable or not in daily practice by comparing sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), hemoglobin (Hgb), and hematocrit (Htc) levels measured by BGA and laboratory auto-analyzer (LAA). The secondary aim was whether BGA is reliable or not in daily practice by comparing Na+, K+, Hgb, and Htc levels measured by BGA and LAA in different pH stages.Materials and methods: The study screened the electronic data and file records of all patients who were admitted to the emergency department with any complaint during the study period retrospectively. Patients who had results of venous blood gases and routine laboratory obtained at the same time were included the study. For each parameter, agreements and correlations between the results of BGA and LAA were evaluated by Bland-Altman test and Spearman’s correlation test, respectively. An r-value >0.80 was considered a strong correlation.Results: The laboratory results of 1374 patients were evaluated for statistical analyses. When evaluating the correlations between the results of BGA and LAA, it was found that there was only a strong correlation for K+ (p

The purpose of this study was to determine serum zinc, iron, magnesium, copper, potassium, calcium, and sodium levels in acute rotavirus infection and convalescence period in children. Materials and methods. We examined 86 patients aged from 4 months to 5 years with clinical and laboratory signs of rotavirus infection. The I group – 43 children with RVI in acute period. The II group – 43 children with RVI in convalescence period. The control group included 14 healthy children at the same age. The content of macro- and microelements (zinc, iron, magnesium, copper, potassium, calcium and sodium) in blood serum was determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Feces samples were used for Cito Test Rota (Pharmasco). Cito test was used for rotavirus antigen detection in feces. Statistical analysis was performed by Excel. Student’s t-test was used to evaluate differences between study groups. Results. The acute period of the disease in children with rotavirus infection was characterized by a significant increase of copper in blood serum compared with the control group. At the same time, a significant decrease of iron, magnesium, zinc, potassium, calcium, sodium were determined in patients with rotavirus infection, compared with apparently healthy children. After standard treatment only the indicators of magnesium, potassium and sodium reached the same indices of control group children. Conclusions. The detected changes in the mineral status of patients with rotavirus infection suggest the need for treatment correction. Correction of micro- and macroelements imbalances in patients with rotavirus infection possibly should be aimed at the metallo-drugs inclusion in complex treatment as well as medicines which improve absorption of the latter in the intestine.