Metabolic Surgery in the Treatment Algorithm for Type 2 Diabetes: A Joint Statement by International Diabetes Organizations

Standards of medical care for type 2 diabetes in China 2019

The prevalence of diabetes in China has increased rapidly from 0.67% in 1980 to 10.4% in 2013, with the aging of the population and westernization of lifestyle. Since its foundation in 1991, the Chinese Diabetes Society (CDS) has been dedicated to improving academic exchange and the academic level of diabetes research in China. From 2003 to 2014, four versions of Chinese diabetes care guidelines have been published. The guidelines have played an important role in standardizing clinical practice and improving the status quo of diabetes prevention and control in China. Since September 2016, the CDS has invited experts in cardiovascular diseases, psychiatric diseases, nutrition, and traditional Chinese medicine to work with endocrinologists from the CDS to review the new clinical research evidence related to diabetes over the previous 4 years. Over a year of careful revision, this has resulted in the present, new version of guidelines for prevention and care of type 2 diabetes in China. The main contents include epidemiology of type 2 diabetes in China; diagnosis and classification of diabetes; primary, secondary, and tertiary diabetes prevention; diabetes education and management support; blood glucose monitoring; integrated control targets for type 2 diabetes and treatments for hyperglycaemia; medical nutrition therapy; exercise therapy for type 2 diabetes; smoking cessation; pharmacologic therapy for hyperglycaemia; metabolic surgery for type 2 diabetes; prevention and treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in patients with type 2 diabetes; hypoglycaemia; chronic diabetic complications; special types of diabetes; metabolic syndrome; and diabetes and traditional Chinese medicine.

Concurrent nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes: diagnostic and therapeutic considerations

Introduction: The relationship between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is complex and bidirectional. NAFLD increases the risk of incident diabetes and is very prevalent in T2DM patients and T2DM is an aggravating factor for NAFLD. Timely T2DM diagnosis and treatment in subjects with NAFLD and diagnosis, staging and treatment of NAFLD in those with T2DM are critical issues. Areas covered: PubMed/MEDLINE was searched for articles related to concomitant occurrence of NAFLD and T2DM between January 2013 and May 2019. Areas covered included epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects. Expert opinion: there is a need for increased awareness on NAFLD adding liver disease as an end-organ complication of T2DM. Emphasis on use of simple non-invasive tools to triage patients with potentially severe liver disease should be made. Management of patients with NAFLD and T2DM relies on lifestyle optimization to achieve significant weight loss. Currently, there is no drug approved for treatment of NAFLD in patients with T2DM although Vitamin E and pioglitazone might be used in selected patients. Approved diabetic medications hold promise for NAFLD treatment and several liver-specific drugs are in evaluation clinical trials. A combination approach will likely represent the future of NAFLD therapeutics.

Remission of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus after Bariatric Surgery: Fact or Fiction?

Although type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been traditionally viewed as an intractable chronic medical condition, accumulating evidence points towards the notion that a complete remission of T2DM is feasible following a choice of medical and/or surgical interventions. This has been paralleled by increasing interest in the establishment of a universal definition for T2DM remission which, under given circumstances, could be considered equivalent to a “cure”. The efficacy of bariatric surgery in particular for achieving glycemic control has highlighted surgery as a candidate curative intervention for T2DM. Herein, available evidence regarding available surgical modalities and the mechanisms that drive metabolic amelioration after bariatric surgery are reviewed. Furthermore, reports from observational and randomized studies with regard to T2DM remission are reviewed, along with concepts relevant to the variety of definitions used for T2DM remission and other potential sources of discrepancy in success rates among different studies.

Bone health in diabetes and prediabetes

Bone fragility has been recognized as a complication of diabetes, both type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D), whereas the relationship between prediabetes and fracture risk is less clear. Fractures can deeply impact a diabetic patient's quality of life. However, the mechanisms underlying bone fragility in diabetes are complex and have not been fully elucidated. Patients with T1D generally exhibit low bone mineral density (BMD), although the relatively small reduction in BMD does not entirely explain the increase in fracture risk. On the contrary, patients with T2D or prediabetes have normal or even higher BMD as compared with healthy subjects. These observations suggest that factors other than bone mass may influence fracture risk. Some of these factors have been identified, including disease duration, poor glycemic control, presence of diabetes complications, and certain antidiabetic drugs. Nevertheless, currently available tools for the prediction of risk inadequately capture diabetic patients at increased risk of fracture. Aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of bone health and the mechanisms responsible for increased susceptibility to fracture across the spectrum of glycemic status, spanning from insulin resistance to overt forms of diabetes. The management of bone fragility in diabetic patient is also discussed.

Meta-Analysis of Differential miRNA Expression after Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is an efficient treatment for weight loss in obese patients and for resolving obesity comorbidities. However, the mechanisms behind these outcomes are unclear. Recent studies have indicated significant alterations in the transcriptome after surgery, specifically in the differential expression of microRNAs. In order to summarize the recent findings, we conducted a systematic summary of studies comparing microRNA expression levels before and after surgery. We identified 17 animal model and human studies from four databases (Ovid, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed) to be enrolled in this meta-analysis. From these studies, we identified 14 miRNAs which had the same direction of modulation of their expression after surgery in at least two studies (downregulated: hsa-miR-93-5p, hsa-miR-106b-5p, hsa-let-7b-5p, hsa-let-7i-5p, hsa-miR-16-5p, hsa-miR-19b-3p, hsa-miR-92a-3p, hsa-miR-222-3p, hsa-miR-142-3p, hsa-miR-140-5p, hsa-miR-155-5p, rno-miR-320-3p; upregulated: hsa-miR-7-5p, hsa-miR-320c). Pathway analysis for these miRNAs was done using database resources (DIANA-TarBase and KEGG pathway database) and their predicted target genes were discussed in relation with obesity and its comorbidities. Discrepancies in study design, such as miRNA source, bariatric surgery type, time of observation after surgery, and miRNA profiling methods, were also discussed.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus and osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVES

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and osteoarthritis (OA) are common diseases that frequently co-exist, along with overweight/obesity. While the mechanical impact of excess body weight on joints may explain lower limb OA, we sought to explore whether T2DM is linked to OA outside of excess weight and whether T2DM may play a role in OA pathophysiology. The consequence of T2DM on OA outcomes is a question of research interest.

METHODS

We conducted a critical review of the literature to explore the association between T2DM and OA, whether any association is site-specific for OA, and whether the presence of T2DM impacts on OA outcomes. We also reviewed the literature to assess the safety of anti-OA treatments in patients with T2DM.

RESULTS

T2DM has a pathogenic effect on OA through 2 major pathways involving oxidative stress and low-grade chronic inflammation resulting from chronic hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. T2DM is a risk factor for OA progression and has a negative impact on arthroplasty outcomes. Evidence is mounting for safety concerns with some of the most frequently prescribed anti-OA medications, including paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroid injections, while other anti-OA medications may be safely prescribed in OA patients with T2DM, such as glucosamine and intra-articular hyaluronic acid.

CONCLUSIONS

Future research is needed to better understand whether diabetes control and prevention can modulate OA occurrence and progression. The selection of therapy to treat OA symptoms in patients with T2DM may require careful consideration of the evidence based to avoid untoward safety issues.

The Hemoglobin, Albumin, Lymphocyte, and Platelet (HALP) Score in Patients with Small Cell Lung Cancer Before First-Line Treatment with Etoposide and Progression-Free Survival

BACKGROUND The hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score is a prognostic factor in patients who have some types of malignant tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic significance of the HALP score in patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) before first-line treatment with etoposide. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective study included 178 patients with SCLC who received first-line chemotherapy with etoposide between September 2015 and May 2019. The baseline clinical characteristics and blood parameters were recorded. Univariate and multivariate analysis and Kaplan-Meier plots were used to identify the factors associated with progression-free survival (PFS). RESULTS The optimal cut-off values of the HALP score was determined by X-tile software to be 25.8. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that in 178 patients, the HALP score, body mass index (BMI), and serum albumin levels had no prognostic significance. In the patient age group <65 years, a BMI ≥24 kg/m² was an independent prognostic factor (HR, 1.943; 95% CI, 1.251-3.018) (P=0.003). In the patient age group ≥65 years, a HALP score >25.8 was an independent positive prognostic factor for outcome following first-line treatment with etoposide (HR, 0.483; 95% CI, 0.270-0.865) (P=0.014). CONCLUSIONS In patients <65 years with SCLC who underwent first-line treatment with etoposide, a BMI ≥24 kg/m² an independent prognostic factor, and in patients ≥65 years, a HALP score >25.8 was an independent predictor of improved outcome, associated with increased PFS.

The pros and cons of gastric bypass surgery - The role of the Roux-limb

The prevalence of overweight and obesity has exploded in the post-industrial era. Life style interventions like dieting and exercise can induce a marked weight loss, but the main problem for most patients is to maintain the reduced body weight over time. Gastric bypass surgery is a commonly performed and very effective method for achieving a pronounced and sustained weight loss including metabolic improvements in obese patients. Despite the therapeutic successfulness there are known side-effects like chronic postprandial nausea and pain that in some patients become intractable. The pathophysiology is complex and partly unexplored. The physician or surgeon handling a patient with "post-bariatric symptoms" must be aware of the risk for symptom aggravations due to iatrogenic opioid-associated intestinal dysmotility. The present paper gives a brief overview of obesity surgery and its associated postsurgical conditions with a focus on the unexplored role of the Roux-limb following gastric bypass surgery.

Metabolic Surgery: Weight Loss, Diabetes, and Beyond

The alarming rise in the worldwide prevalence of obesity is paralleled by an increasing burden of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metabolic surgery is the most effective means of obtaining substantial and durable weight loss in individuals with obesity. Randomized trials have recently shown the superiority of surgery over medical treatment alone in achieving improved glycemic control, as well as a reduction in cardiovascular risk factors. The mechanisms seem to extend beyond the magnitude of weight loss alone and include improvements in incretin profiles, insulin secretion, and insulin sensitivity. Moreover, observational data suggest that the reduction in cardiovascular risk factors translates to better patient outcomes. This review describes commonly used metabolic surgical procedures and their current indications and summarizes the evidence related to weight loss and glycemic outcomes. It further examines their potential effects on cardiovascular outcomes and mortality and discusses future perspectives.

Baseline neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio is associated with long-term T2D remission after metabolic surgery

AIMS

Metabolic surgery is considered as a therapeutic option for obese patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). In order to identify novel laboratory variables that could improve the selection of patients who might greatly benefit from a surgical approach, we focused on the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as a predictor of long-term T2D remission following metabolic surgery.

METHODS

Thirty-one obese patients with T2D included in this pilot study underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) at the Surgical Department of Genoa University, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino in Genoa (Italy). Before surgery, serum samples were collected to evaluate blood count, glycemic profile, and circulating neutrophil degranulation products.

RESULTS

The median age was 56 years, median body mass index (BMI) was 32.37 kg/m2, and median glycated hemoglobin was 8.4%. White blood cell count was in a range of normality, with a median NLR of 1.97. By a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, NLR has been found to be significantly associated with T2D remission at 1, 3, and 5 years and the best cutoff of ≤ 1.97 has been identified by Youden index. When comparing study groups according to NLR cutoff, those with NLR ≤ 1.97 were older and underwent more often BPD. By a logistic regression analysis, NLR ≤ 1.97 has been found to predict T2D remission across 5 years, irrespective of baseline BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

A baseline low NLR is associated with long-term T2D remission in obese patients undergoing metabolic surgery, suggesting that circulating inflammatory cells (i.e., neutrophils) might negatively impact on T2D remission.

Metabolic effects and safety of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery vs. conventional medication in obese Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes

AIM

To assess metabolic effects and safety of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) versus conventional medication (CM) in obese Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 40 patients who underwent RYGB (mean age 44.1 years, body mass index [BMI] 33.3 kg/m² ) and 36 patients administered CM (mean age 49.4 years, BMI 32.1 kg/m² ). The primary endpoint was achievement of the triple endpoint (haemoglobin A1C [HbA1c] < 7.0%, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol < 2.6 mmol/L, and systolic blood pressure < 130 mmHg). Changes in weight, BMI, medication usage, complications, and adverse events were assessed.

RESULTS

After 1-year follow-up, 35% of RYGB patients and 8% of CM patients achieved the triple endpoint (P = 0.005). More patients in the RYGB group achieved complete (48% vs 3%, P < 0.001) and partial (23% vs 0%, P = 0.007) remission of diabetes, and complete remission of hypertension (58% vs 24%, P = 0.019). Patients in the RYGB group had greater weight loss and decrease in BMI, waist circumference, fasting and postprandial of blood glucose and insulin levels, HbA1c, blood pressure, triglycerides, and increased high-density cholesterol (P < 0.001- < 0.05). A lower proportion of the RYGB group received antidiabetics, antihypertensives, or antilipemic treatments, and had non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) than the CM group during follow-up. More patients had nutrient deficiency-related diseases in the RYGB group over 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

For obese Chinese patients with T2DM, RYGB resulted in better metabolic control, greater weight loss, and lower medication usage and NAFLD, but more frequently resulted in diseases related to nutrient deficiency.

Adjunctive liraglutide treatment in patients with persistent or recurrent type 2 diabetes after metabolic surgery (GRAVITAS): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Many patients with type 2 diabetes do not achieve sustained diabetes remission after metabolic (bariatric) surgery for the treatment of obesity. Liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 analogue, improves glycaemic control and reduces bodyweight in patients with type 2 diabetes. Our aim was to assess the safety and efficacy of liraglutide 1·8 mg in patients with persistent or recurrent type 2 diabetes after metabolic surgery.

METHODS

In the GRAVITAS randomised double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, we enrolled adults who had undergone Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or vertical sleeve gastrectomy and had persistent or recurrent type 2 diabetes with HbA1c levels higher than 48 mmol/mol (6·5%) at least 1 year after surgery from five hospitals in London, UK. Participants were randomly assigned (2:1) via a computer-generated sequence to either subcutaneous liraglutide 1·8 mg once daily or placebo, both given together with a reduced-calorie diet, aiming for a 500 kcal per day deficit from baseline energy intake, and increased physical activity. The primary outcome was the change in HbA1c from baseline to the end of the study period at 26 weeks, assessed in patients who completed the trial. Safety was assessed in the safety analysis population, consisting of all participants who received either liraglutide or placebo. This trial is registered with EudraCT, number 2014-003923-23, and the ISRCTN registry, number ISRCTN13643081.

FINDINGS

Between Jan 29, 2016, and May 2, 2018, we assigned 80 patients to receive either liraglutide (n=53) or placebo (n=27). 71 (89%) participants completed the study and were included in the principal complete-cases analysis. In a multivariable linear regression analysis, with baseline HbA1c levels and surgery type as covariates, liraglutide treatment was associated with a difference of -13·3 mmol/mol (-1·22%, 95% CI -19·7 to -7·0; p=0·0001) in HbA1c change from baseline to 26 weeks, compared with placebo. Type of surgery had no significant effect on the outcome. 24 (45%) of 53 patients assigned to liraglutide and 11 (41%) of 27 assigned to placebo reported adverse effects: these were mainly gastrointestinal and in line with previous experience with liraglutide. There was one death during the study in a patient assigned to the placebo group, which was considered unrelated to study treatment.

INTERPRETATION

These findings support the use of adjunctive liraglutide treatment in patients with persistent or recurrent type 2 diabetes after metabolic surgery.

FUNDING

JP Moulton Foundation.

Obesity and cardiovascular risk: a call for action from the European Society of Hypertension Working Group of Obesity, Diabetes and the High-risk Patient and European Association for the Study of Obesity: part A: mechanisms of obesity induced hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia and practice guidelines for treatment

: Obesity is a key factor for cardiovascular diseases and complications. Obesity is associated with hypertension, dyslipidemia and type II diabetes, which are the major predictors of cardiovascular disease in the future. It predisposes for atrial fibrillation, heart failure, sudden cardiac death, renal disease and ischemic stroke that are the main causes of cardiovascular hospitalization and mortality. As obesity and the cardiovascular effects on the vessels and the heart start early in life, even from childhood, it is important for health policies to prevent obesity very early before the disease manifestation emerge. Key roles in the prevention are strategies to increase physical exercise, reduce body weight and to prevent or treat hypertension, lipids disorders and diabetes earlier and efficiently to prevent cardiovascular complications.Epidemiology and mechanisms of obesity-induced hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia will be reviewed and the role of lifestyle modification and treatment strategies in obesity will be updated and analyzed. The best treatment options for people with obesity, hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia will discussed.

Long-Term Effects of a Novel Continuous Remote Care Intervention Including Nutritional Ketosis for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes: A 2-Year Non-randomized Clinical Trial

Purpose: Studies on long-term sustainability of low-carbohydrate approaches to treat diabetes are limited. We previously reported the effectiveness of a novel digitally-monitored continuous care intervention (CCI) including nutritional ketosis in improving weight, glycemic outcomes, lipid, and liver marker changes at 1 year. Here, we assess the effects of the CCI at 2 years. Materials and methods: An open label, non-randomized, controlled study with 262 and 87 participants with T2D were enrolled in the CCI and usual care (UC) groups, respectively. Primary outcomes were retention, glycemic control, and weight changes at 2 years. Secondary outcomes included changes in body composition, liver, cardiovascular, kidney, thyroid and inflammatory markers, diabetes medication use and disease status. Results: Reductions from baseline to 2 years in the CCI group resulting from intent-to-treat analyses included: HbA1c, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, weight, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, triglycerides, and liver alanine transaminase, and HDL-C increased. Spine bone mineral density in the CCI group was unchanged. Use of any glycemic control medication (excluding metformin) among CCI participants declined (from 55.7 to 26.8%) including insulin (-62%) and sulfonylureas (-100%). The UC group had no changes in these parameters (except uric acid and anion gap) or diabetes medication use. There was also resolution of diabetes (reversal, 53.5%; remission, 17.6%) in the CCI group but not in UC. All the reported improvements had p < 0.00012. Conclusion: The CCI group sustained long-term beneficial effects on multiple clinical markers of diabetes and cardiometabolic health at 2 years while utilizing less medication. The intervention was also effective in the resolution of diabetes and visceral obesity with no adverse effect on bone health. Clinical Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02519309.

Body mass index and insulin use as identifiers of high-cost patients with type 2 diabetes: A retrospective analysis of electronic health records linked to insurance claims data

AIMS

To study the association of body mass index (BMI) and insulin use with type 2 diabetes-related healthcare expenditures (T2D-HE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective study using de-identified electronic health records linked to insurance claims data. Study included a prevalence-based sample of overweight or obese patients with antihyperglycaemic-treated T2D. Patients had ≥1 A1c measurement in 2014 (last observed = index A1c), ≥1 BMI measurement within ±90 days of index (average BMI = baseline BMI), and continuous enrolment for 180 days before (baseline) through 395 days after index (day 30-395 = follow-up). BMI was categorized as: 25 to 29.9 kg/m² = overweight; 30 to 34.9 kg/m² = obese class I (OCI); 35 to 39.9 kg/m² = OCII; ≥40 kg/m² = OCIII. Multivariable regressions were used to examine one-year follow-up T2D-HE as a function of BMI, insulin use, an interaction term between BMI and insulin use, and patient demographics.

RESULTS

Study included 13 026 patients (mean age = 63.6 years; 48.1% female; 29.5% overweight, 31.6% OCI, 20.3% OCII, 18.6% OCIII; 25.3% insulin users). Baseline insulin use rates monotonically ranged from 19.7% in overweight patients to 33.0% in OCIII patients (P < 0.001). Together, BMI and insulin use were jointly associated with one-year follow-up T2D-HE, which monotonically ranged from $5842 in overweight patients with no insulin to $17 700 OCIII insulin users, P < 0.001. Within each BMI category, insulin users' one-year T2D-HE was at least double that of non-users. Additional analyses of all-cause healthcare expenditures yielded consistent results.

CONCLUSIONS

BMI and insulin use represent simple stratifiers for identifying high-cost patients. OCIII insulin users incurred the greatest annual healthcare expenditures; these patients may be an ideal group for targeted interventions.

Restoration of myocardial glucose uptake with facilitated myocardial glucose transporter 4 translocation contributes to alleviation of diabetic cardiomyopathy in rats after duodenal-jejunal bypass

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

Duodenal-jejunal bypass (DJB) surgery has been reported to effectively relieve diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). However, the specific mechanisms remain largely unknown. The present study was designed to determine the alterations of myocardial glucose uptake (MGU) after DJB and their effects on DCM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Duodenal-jejunal bypass and sham surgeries were carried out in diabetic rats induced by a high-fat diet and a low dose of streptozotocin, with chow-diet fed rats as controls. Bodyweight, food intake, glucose homeostasis and lipid profiles were measured at indicated time-points. Cardiac function was evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography and hemodynamic measurement. Cardiac remodeling was assessed by a series of morphometric analyses along with transmission electron microscopy. Positron-emission tomography with fluorine-18 labeled fluorodeoxyglucose was carried out to evaluate the MGU in vivo. Furthermore, myocardial glucose transporters (GLUT; GLUT1 and GLUT4), myocardial insulin signaling and GLUT-4 translocation-related proteins were investigated to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

RESULTS

The DJB group showed restored systolic and diastolic cardiac function, along with significant remission in cardiac hypertrophy, cardiac fibrosis, lipid deposit and ultrastructural disorder independent of weight loss compared with the sham group. Furthermore, the DJB group showed upregulated myocardial insulin signaling, hyperphosphorylation of AKT substrate of 160 kDa (AS160) and TBC1D1, along with preserved soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor proteins, facilitating the GLUT-4 translocation to the myocardial cell surface and restoration of MGU.

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings provide evidence that restoration of MGU is implicated in the alleviation of DCM after DJB through facilitating GLUT-4 translocation, suggesting a potential choice for treatment of human DCM if properly implemented.

Using Machine Learning Applied to Real-World Healthcare Data for Predictive Analytics: An Applied Example in Bariatric Surgery

OBJECTIVES

Laparoscopic metabolic surgery (MxS) can lead to remission of type 2 diabetes (T2D); however, treatment response to MxS can be heterogeneous. Here, we demonstrate an open-source predictive analytics platform that applies machine-learning techniques to a common data model; we develop and validate a predictive model of antihyperglycemic medication cessation (validated proxy for A1c control) in patients with treated T2D who underwent MxS.

METHODS

We selected patients meeting the following criteria in 2 large US healthcare claims databases (Truven Health MarketScan Commercial [CCAE]; Optum Clinformatics [Optum]): underwent MxS between January 1, 2007, to October 1, 2013 (first = index); aged ≥18 years; continuous enrollment 180 days pre-index (baseline) to 730 days postindex; baseline T2D diagnosis and treatment. The outcome was no antihyperglycemic medication treatment from 365 to 730 days after MxS. A regularized logistic regression model was trained using the following candidate predictor categories measured at baseline: demographics, conditions, medications, measurements, and procedures. A 75% to 25% split of the CCAE group was used for model training and testing; the Optum group was used for external validation.

RESULTS

13 050 (CCAE) and 3477 (Optum) patients met the study inclusion criteria. Antihyperglycemic medication cessation rates were 72.9% (CCAE) and 70.8% (Optum). The model possessed good internal discriminative accuracy (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.778 [95% CI = 0.761-0.795] in CCAE test set N = 3527) and transportability (external AUC = 0.759 [95% CI = 0.741-0.777] in Optum N = 3477).

CONCLUSION

The application of machine learning techniques to real-world healthcare data can yield useful predictive models to assist patient selection. In future practice, establishment of prerequisite technological infrastructure will be needed to implement such models for real-world decision support.

Metabolic surgery for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in patients with BMI lower than 35 kg/m2 : Why caution is still needed

Bariatric surgery has shifted from being a risky procedure to an evidence-based one, with proven benefits on all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes control. The procedure has an overall positive result on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), with a substantial number of patients achieving disease remission. This has resulted in several studies assessing possible weight-independent effects of bariatric surgery on glycemic improvement, in addition to recommendation of the procedure to patients with class 1 obesity and T2DM, for whom the procedure was classically not indicated, and adoption of a new term, "metabolic surgery," to highlight the overall metabolic benefit of the procedure beyond weight loss. Recently, the Diabetes Surgery Summit (DSS) has included metabolic surgery in its T2DM treatment algorithm. Although the discussion brought by this consensus is highly relevant, the recommendation of metabolic surgery for patients with uncontrolled T2DM and a body mass index of 30 to 35 kg/m² still lacks enough evidence. This article provides an overall view of the metabolic benefits of bariatric/metabolic surgery in patients with class 1 obesity, compares the procedure against clinical treatment, and presents our rationale for defending caution on recommending the procedure to less obese individuals.

Economics and Policy in Bariatric Surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to provide current synthesis of the evidence on the cost-effectiveness of bariatric surgery for persons with diabetes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Virtually, every study that has evaluated the cost-effectiveness of bariatric surgery for persons who are obese and have type 2 diabetes has concluded that surgery is cost-effective. A few studies outside the USA found that surgery is cost-saving. Currently, most but not all US insurers cover bariatric surgery in persons with type 2 diabetes and BMI ≥ 35 kg/m². Bariatric surgery is a cost-effective treatment for persons with type 2 diabetes and BMI ≥ 35 kg/m². There is interest in extending surgery to persons with diabetes and lower BMI; the cost-effectiveness of treating these individuals with bariatric surgery should be explored. Despite the potential benefits, not all obese or overweight persons with diabetes will choose surgery.

Standards for global cardiovascular risk management arteriosclerosis

One of the main goals of the Spanish Society of Arteriosclerosis is to contribute to a wider and greater knowledge of vascular disease, its prevention and treatment. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in our country and also lead to a high degree of disability and health expenditure. Arteriosclerosis is a multifactorial disease, this is why its prevention requires a global approach that takes into account the different risk factors with which it is associated. Thus, this document summarizes the current level of knowledge and integrates recommendations and procedures to be followed for patients with established cardiovascular disease or high vascular risk. Specifically, this document reviews the main symptoms and signs to be evaluated during the clinical visit, the laboratory and imaging procedures to be routinely requested or those in special situations. It also includes the estimation of vascular risk, the diagnostic criteria of the different entities that are cardiovascular risk factors, and presents general and specific recommendations for the treatment of the different cardiovascular risk factors and their final objectives. Finally, the document includes aspects that are not often mentioned in the literature, such as the organisation of a vascular risk consultation.

The life expectancy of patients with metabolic syndrome after weight loss: study protocol for a randomized clinical trial (LIFEXPE-RT)

Background

To date, surgeons and physicians have found positive results treating metabolic syndrome with surgical and non-surgical weight loss therapies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in telomere length in patients with metabolic syndrome after weight loss.

Methods/design

This study is a three-arm randomized controlled trial. The first group is composed of patients who have undergone stapleless bypass surgery (one anastomosis gastric bypass with an obstructive stapleless pouch and anastomosis (LOAGB-OSPAN)). The second group of patients underwent standard gastric bypass surgery (laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass-one anastomosis gastric bypass (LMGB-OAGB). The patients in the third group received non-surgical weight loss therapy, including a hypocaloric diet with energy restriction (− 500 kcal/day).

The aim is to compare changes—telomere length, body mass index, comorbidities, and quality of life—in patients with metabolic syndrome after weight loss.

Discussion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first randomized study to simultaneously compare the effects of surgical and non-surgical weight loss on changes in telomere length. It could provide a solution to the growing problem of metabolic syndrome. Normalization of the body mass index results in improvements in the health of patients with metabolic syndrome.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03667469. Registered on 11 September 2018.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13063-019-3304-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Reversing Type 2 Diabetes: A Narrative Review of the Evidence

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) has long been identified as an incurable chronic disease based on traditional means of treatment. Research now exists that suggests reversal is possible through other means that have only recently been embraced in the guidelines. This narrative review examines the evidence for T2D reversal using each of the three methods, including advantages and limitations for each.

METHODS

A literature search was performed, and a total of 99 original articles containing information pertaining to diabetes reversal or remission were included.

RESULTS

Evidence exists that T2D reversal is achievable using bariatric surgery, low-calorie diets (LCD), or carbohydrate restriction (LC). Bariatric surgery has been recommended for the treatment of T2D since 2016 by an international diabetes consensus group. Both the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) now recommend a LC eating pattern and support the short-term use of LCD for weight loss. However, only T2D treatment, not reversal, is discussed in their guidelines.

CONCLUSION

Given the state of evidence for T2D reversal, healthcare providers need to be educated on reversal options so they can actively engage in counseling patients who may desire this approach to their disease.

IMPACT OF WEIGHT LOSS TRAJECTORY FOLLOWING RANDOMIZATION TO BARIATRIC SURGERY ON LONG-TERM DIABETES GLYCEMIC AND CARDIOMETABOLIC PARAMETERS

Objective: It is unclear whether acute weight loss or the chronic trajectory of weight loss after bariatric surgery is associated with long-term type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) glycemic improvement. This ancillary study of the Surgical Treatment and Medications Potentially Eradicate Diabetes Efficiently (STAMPEDE) trial aimed to answer this question. Methods: In STAMPEDE, 150 patients with T2DM were randomized to bariatric surgery, and 96 had 5-year follow-up. Data post-Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB, n = 49) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG, n = 47) were analyzed. We defined percent weight loss in the first year as negative percent decrease from baseline weight to lowest weight in the first year. Percent weight regain was positive percent change from lowest weight in the first year to fifth year. Weight change was then correlated with cardiometabolic (CM) and glycemic outcomes at 5 years using Spearman rank correlations and multivariate analysis. Results: In both RYGB and SG, less weight loss in the first year positively correlated with higher 5-year glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (RYGB, β = +0.13; P<.001 and SG, β = 0.14; P<.001). In SG, greater weight regain from nadir positively correlated with higher HbA1c (β = 0.06; P = .02), but not in RYGB. Reduced first-year weight loss was also correlated with increased 5-year triglycerides (β = 1.81; P = .01), but not systolic blood pressure. Weight regain did not correlate with CM outcomes. Conclusion: Acute weight loss may be more important for T2DM glycemic control following both RYGB and SG as compared with weight regain. Clinicians should aim to assist patients with achieving maximal weight loss in the first year post-op to maximize long-term health of patients. Abbreviations: BMI = body mass index; HbA1c = glycated hemoglobin; RYGB = Roux-en-Y gastric bypass; SBP = systolic blood pressure; SG = sleeve gastrectomy; STAMPEDE = Surgical Treatment and Medications Potentially Eradicate Diabetes Efficiently; T2DM = type 2 diabetes mellitus; TG = triglyceride.

Insulin resistance and insulin hypersecretion in the metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes: Time for a conceptual framework shift

While few dispute the existence of the metabolic syndrome as a clustering of factors indicative of poor metabolic health, its utility above that of its individual components in the clinical care of individual patients is questioned. This is likely a consequence of the failure of clinicians and scientists to agree on a unifying mechanism to explain the metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance has most commonly been proposed for this role and is generally considered to be a root causative factor for not only metabolic syndrome but also for its associated conditions of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), obesity-related type 2 diabetes (T2D) and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). An alternative view, for which evidence is mounting, is that hyper-responsiveness of islet β-cells to a hostile environment, such as westernised lifestyle, is primary and that the resulting hyperinsulinaemia drives the other components of the metabolic syndrome. Importantly, within this new conceptual framework, insulin resistance, while always a biomarker and state of poor metabolic health, is not considered to be harmful, but a protective adaptive response of critical tissues including the myocardium against insulin-induced metabolic stress. This major shift in how metabolic syndrome can be considered puts insulin hypersecretion into position as the unifying mechanism. If shown to be correct, this new conceptual framework has major implications for the future prevention and management of the metabolic syndrome, including its associated conditions of NAFLD, PCOS, obesity-related T2D and ASCVD.

Role of Bile Acids and GLP-1 in Mediating the Metabolic Improvements of Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Bile diversion to the ileum (GB-IL) has strikingly similar metabolic and satiating effects to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in rodent obesity models. The metabolic benefits of these procedures are thought to be mediated by increased bile acids, although parallel changes in body weight and other confounding variables limit this interpretation.

METHODS

Global G protein-coupled bile acid receptor-1 null (Tgr5^-/-) and intestinal-specific farnesoid X receptor null (Fxr^Δ/E) mice on high-fat diet as well as wild-type C57BL/6 and glucagon-like polypeptide 1 receptor deficient (Glp-1r^-/-) mice on chow diet were characterized following GB-IL.

RESULTS

GB-IL induced weight loss and improved oral glucose tolerance in Tgr5^-/-, but not Fxr^Δ/E mice fed a high-fat diet, suggesting a role for intestinal Fxr. GB-IL in wild-type, chow-fed mice prompted weight-independent improvements in glycemia and glucose tolerance secondary to augmented insulin responsiveness. Improvements were concomitant with increased levels of lymphatic GLP-1 in the fasted state and increased levels of intestinal Akkermansia muciniphila. Improvements in fasting glycemia after GB-IL were mitigated with exendin-9, a GLP-1 receptor antagonist, or cholestyramine, a bile acid sequestrant. The glucoregulatory effects of GB-IL were lost in whole-body Glp-1r^-/- mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Bile diversion to the ileum improves glucose homeostasis via an intestinal Fxr-Glp-1 axis. Altered intestinal bile acid availability, independent of weight loss, and intestinal Akkermansia muciniphila appear to mediate the metabolic changes observed after bariatric surgery and might be manipulated for treatment of obesity and diabetes.

[Metabolic surgery]

In recent years the surgical treatment of metabolic diseases has become established as an effective alternative to conservative treatment. The new S3 guidelines address these changes and give clear indications for obesity surgery. One of the core points of the new guidelines is the differentiation between obesity surgery and metabolic surgery. In obesity surgery the primary aim of treatment is weight loss whereas for metabolic indications the aim is an improvement of comorbidities independent of the body mass index (BMI). With respect to the selection of procedures sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and the traditional Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) can be used as safe and evidence-based operative procedures. The RYGB has better metabolic effects but higher complication and reintervention rates. More recent procedures, such as the one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) and single anastomosis duodeno-ileal (SADI) bypass possibly have slightly stronger metabolic effects, however, the risk of malnutrition and vitamin deficiency is higher.

Metabolic (Bariatric and Nonbariatric) Surgery for Type 2 Diabetes: A Personal Perspective Review

: Metabolic surgery can cause amelioration, resolution, and possible cure of type 2 diabetes. Bariatric surgery is metabolic surgery. In the future, there will be metabolic surgery operations to treat type 2 diabetes that are not focused on weight loss. These procedures will rely on neurohormonal modulation related to the gut as well as outside the peritoneal cavity. Metabolic procedures are and will always be in flux as surgeons seek the safest and most effective operative modality; there is no enduring gold standard operation. Metabolic bariatric surgery for type 2 diabetes is more than part of the clinical armamentarium, it is an invitation to perform basic research and to achieve fundamental scientific knowledge.

Bariatric/Metabolic Surgery in the Asia-Pacific Region: APMBSS 2018 Survey

INTRODUCTION

The Asia-Pacific Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Society (APMBSS) held its congress in Tokyo at the end of March, 2018, and representatives from Asia-Pacific countries presented the current status of bariatric/metabolic surgery in the "National Reports" session. The data are summarized here to show the current status and problems in the Asia-Pacific region in 2017.

METHODS

A questionnaire including data of 2016 and 2017 and consisting of eight general questions was prepared and sent to representatives in 18 Asia-Pacific countries by e-mail before the congress. After the congress, the data were analyzed and summarized.

RESULTS

Seventeen of 18 countries responded to the survey. The frequency of obesity (BMI ≥ 30) in the 4 Gulf countries was > 30%, much higher than that in the other countries. In total, 1640 surgeons and 869 institutions were engaging in bariatric/metabolic surgery. In many East and Southeast Asian countries, the indication for bariatric surgery was BMI ≥ 35 or ≥ 37, whereas in many Gulf countries and Australia, it was BMI ≥ 40 or ≥ 35 with obesity-related disease. Ten of the 17 countries (58.8%) but only one of the 5 Southeast Asian countries (20.0%) had public health insurance coverage for bariatric surgery. In 2017, 95,125 patients underwent bariatric/metabolic surgery, with sleeve gastrectomy accounting for 68.0%, bypass surgery for 19.5%, and others for 12.5%. Current problems included public insurance coverage, training system, national registry, and lack of awareness and comprehension.

CONCLUSION

This summary showed that bariatric/metabolic surgery is rapidly developing along with various problems in Asia-Pacific countries.

The Feasibility of Examining the Effects of Gastric Bypass Surgery on Intestinal Metabolism: Prospective, Longitudinal Mechanistic Clinical Trial

Background

Bariatric surgery, especially Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), is the best treatment for severe obesity and its complications including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Understanding the mechanisms responsible for the beneficial metabolic effects will help to engineer ways to improve the procedure or produce these effects without surgery.

Objective

The aim is to present data on recruitment and feasibility of a translational study designed to collect intestinal samples before and after bariatric surgery. The goal of biobanking is to allow future studies to test the hypothesis that the mechanism of action of RYGB involves specific changes in the postsurgical short- and long-term metabolism and morphology of the jejunum (Roux limb). Specifically, to test whether the intestine enhances its metabolism and activity after RYGB and increases its fuel utilization, we designed a prospective, longitudinal study, which involved the recruitment of candidates for RYGB with and without T2DM. We describe the tissue bank that we have generated, and our experience, hoping to further facilitate the performance of longitudinal mechanistic studies in human patients undergoing bariatric surgery and especially those involving post-RYGB intestinal biology.

Methods

We conducted a trial to characterize the effects of RYGB on intestinal metabolism. Intestinal tissue samples were collected from the jejunum at surgery, 1, 6, and 12 months postoperatively for the analysis of intestinal gene expression and metabolomic and morphologic changes. The target number of patients who completed at least the 6-month follow-up was 26, and we included a 20% attrition rate, increasing the total number to 32.

Results

To enroll 26 patients, we had to approach 79 potential participants. A total of 37 agreed to participate and started the study; 33, 30, and 26 active participants completed their 1-month, 6-month, and 12-month studies, respectively. Three participants withdrew, and 30 participants are still active. Altruism and interest in research were the most common reasons for participation. Important factors for feasibility and successful retention included (1) large volume case flow, (2) inclusion and exclusion criteria broad enough to capture a large segment of the patient population but narrow enough to ensure the completion of study aims and protection of safety concerns, (3) accurate assessment of willingness and motivation to participate in a study, (4) seamless integration of the recruitment process into normal clinical flow, (5) financial reimbursement and nonfinancial rewards and gestures of appreciation, and (6) nonburdensome follow-up visits and measures and reasonable time allotted.

Conclusions

Human translational studies of the intestinal mechanisms of metabolic and weight changes after bariatric surgery are important and feasible. A tissue bank with unique samples has been established that could be used by investigators in many research fields, further enabling mechanistic studies on the effects of bariatric surgery.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02710370; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02710370 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/75HrQT8Dl)

Targeting Bile Acid-Activated Receptors in Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgical procedures, including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and vertical sleeve gastrectomy, are currently the most effective clinical approaches to achieve a significant and sustainable weight loss. Bariatric surgery also concomitantly improves type 2 diabetes and other metabolic diseases such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, cardiovascular diseases, and hyperlipidemia. However, despite the recent exciting progress in the understanding how bariatric surgery works, the underlying molecular mechanisms of bariatric surgery remain largely unknown. Interestingly, bile acids are emerging as potential signaling molecules to mediate the beneficial effects of bariatric surgery. In this review, we summarize the recent findings on bile acids and their activated receptors in mediating the beneficial metabolic effects of bariatric surgery. We also discuss the potential to target bile acid-activated receptors in order to treat obesity and other metabolic diseases.

8. Obesity Management for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2019

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes" includes ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, a multidisciplinary expert committee, are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations, please refer to the Standards of Care Introduction Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

Effects of Diets on Adipose Tissue

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a major health problem that has become a global epidemic. Overweight and obesity are commonly associated with the development of several pathologies, such as insulin resistance, cardiovascular diseases, sleep apnea and several types of cancer, which can lead to further morbidity and mortality. An increased abdominal adiposity renders overweight and obese individuals more prone to metabolic and cardiovascular problems.

OBJECTIVE

This Review aims to describe the dietary strategies to deal with excess adiposity given the medical, social and economic consequences of obesity.

METHODS

One hundred and eighty-five papers were included in the present Review.

RESULTS

Excess adiposity leads to several changes in the biology, morphology and function of the adipose tissue, such as adipocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia, adipose tissue inflammation and fibrosis and an impaired secretion of adipokines, contributing to the onset of obesity- related comorbidities. The first approach for obesity management and prevention is the implementation of a diet combined with physical activity. The present review summarizes the compelling evidence showing body composition changes, impact on cardiometabolism and potential adverse effects of very-low calorie, low- and high-carbohydrate, high-protein or low-fat diets. The use of macronutrients during the preprandial and postprandial state has been also reviewed to better understand the metabolic changes induced by different dietary interventions.

CONCLUSION

Dietary changes should be individualised, tailored to food preferences and allow for flexible approaches to reducing calorie intake in order to increase the motivation and compliance of overweight and obese patients.

13. Children and Adolescents: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2019

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes" includes ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, a multidisciplinary expert committee, are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations, please refer to the Standards of Care Introduction Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

Prediction of Type 2 Diabetes Remission after Bariatric or Metabolic Surgery

Bariatric surgery has evolved from a surgical measure for treating morbid obesity to an epochal remedy for treating metabolic syndrome as a whole, which is represented by type 2 diabetes mellitus. Numerous clinical trials have advocated bariatric or metabolic surgery over nonsurgical interventions because of markedly superior metabolic outcomes in morbidly obese patients who satisfy traditional criteria for bariatric surgery (body mass index [BMI] >35 kg/m2) and in less obese or simply overweight patients. Nevertheless, not all diabetes patients achieve the most desirable outcomes; i.e., diabetes remission after metabolic surgery. Thus, candidates for metabolic surgery should be carefully selected based on comprehensive preoperative assessments of the risk-benefit ratio. Predictors for diabetes remission after metabolic surgery may be classified into two groups based on mechanism of action. The first is indices for preserved pancreatic beta-cell function, including younger age, shorter duration of diabetes, and higher C-peptide level. The second is the potential for an insulin resistance reduction, including higher baseline BMI and visceral fat area. Several prediction models for diabetes remission have been suggested by merging these two to guide the joint decision-making process between clinicians and patients. Three such models, DiaRem, ABCD, and individualized metabolic surgery scores, provide an intuitive scoring system and have been validated in an independent external cohort and can be utilized in routine clinical practice. These prediction models need further validation in various ethnicities to ensure universal applicability.

Management of hyperglycaemia in type 2 diabetes, 2018. A consensus report by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD)

The American Diabetes Association and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes convened a panel to update the prior position statements, published in 2012 and 2015, on the management of type 2 diabetes in adults. A systematic evaluation of the literature since 2014 informed new recommendations. These include additional focus on lifestyle management and diabetes self-management education and support. For those with obesity, efforts targeting weight loss, including lifestyle, medication and surgical interventions, are recommended. With regards to medication management, for patients with clinical cardiovascular disease, a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor or a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist with proven cardiovascular benefit is recommended. For patients with chronic kidney disease or clinical heart failure and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, an SGLT2 inhibitor with proven benefit is recommended. GLP-1 receptor agonists are generally recommended as the first injectable medication.