Projections of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Burden in the U.S. Population Aged <20 Years Through 2060: The SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study

Theaflavins mitigate diabetic symptoms in GK rats by modulating the INSR/PI3K-Akt/GSK-3 pathway and intestinal microbiota

Dietary management and interventions are crucial in the clinical management of diabetes. Numerous active dietary components in black tea have demonstrated positive effects on blood glucose levels and metabolic functions. However, limited research has explored the potential of theaflavins (TF), polyphenols in black tea, for diabetes management. In this study, high-purity TF was administered to Goto-Kakizaki (GK) diabetic model rats for four weeks to investigate its impact on diabetic pathology and analyze the underlying mechanisms through liver transcriptomics, hepatocyte metabolomics, and gut microbiome analysis. The findings indicated that continuous administration of TF (100 mg/kg) significantly suppressed blood glucose levels, reduced insulin resistance, and decreased the expression of oxidative stress indicators and inflammatory factors in GK rats. Further analysis revealed that TF might alleviate insulin resistance by improving hepatic glycogen conversion and reducing hepatic lipid deposition through modulation of key pathways, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors and PI3K/AKT/GSK-3 pathways within the liver, thereby ameliorating diabetic symptoms. Additionally, TF intake facilitated the restoration of the intestinal microbial community structure by reducing the abundance of harmful bacteria and increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria. It also reduced endotoxin lipopolysaccharide production, thereby lowering the chances of insulin resistance development and enhancing its efficacy in regulating blood glucose levels. These findings offer a novel perspective on the potential of black tea and its active constituents to prevent and treat diabetes and other metabolic disorders, providing valuable references for identifying and applying active dietary components from tea.

Harnessing cellular therapeutics for type 1 diabetes mellitus: progress, challenges, and the road ahead

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a growing global health concern that affects approximately 8.5 million individuals worldwide. T1DM is characterized by an autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β cells, leading to a disruption in glucose homeostasis. Therapeutic intervention for T1DM requires a complex regimen of glycaemic monitoring and the administration of exogenous insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. Advances in continuous glucose monitoring and algorithm-driven insulin delivery devices have improved the quality of life of patients. Despite this, mimicking islet function and complex physiological feedback remains challenging. Pancreatic islet transplantation represents a potential functional cure for T1DM but is hindered by donor scarcity, variability in harvested cells, aggressive immunosuppressive regimens and suboptimal clinical outcomes. Current research is directed towards generating alternative cell sources, improving transplantation methods, and enhancing cell survival without chronic immunosuppression. This Review maps the progress in cell replacement therapies for T1DM and outlines the remaining challenges and future directions. We explore the state-of-the-art strategies for generating replenishable β cells, cell delivery technologies and local targeted immune modulation. Finally, we highlight relevant animal models and the regulatory aspects for advancing these technologies towards clinical deployment.

Perceived stress and associations between physical activity, sedentary time, and interstitial glucose in healthy adolescents

BACKGROUND

Less moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), more sedentary time (ST), and higher perceived stress are related to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) occurrence, but observational evidence addressing the interaction of these factors is lacking in youth. This pilot study investigated momentary stress as a moderator in the acute associations of MVPA and ST with subsequent glucose in healthy adolescents.

METHODS

Participants (N=15, Mage=13.1±1.0 years, 10 girls, 5 with overweight/obesity) simultaneously wore a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), thigh-mounted accelerometer, and reported momentary stress via random ecological momentary assessments (EMA; Time T) for 7-14 days. MVPA and ST (min) were calculated for 60- and 120-minute time windows before each EMA prompt (Time T-1). Mean CGM-measured interstitial glucose (mg/dL) was calculated after each prompt (Mmin=120.0±25.4; Time T+1). Multilevel models assessed whether within-subject MVPA and ST (Time T-1) predicted mean glucose (Time T+1), with momentary stress as a moderator (Time T).

RESULTS

There were 513 time-matched EMA reports of stress, accelerometer, and CGM data. Momentary stress moderated the effects of MVPA 60 (β=-0.22, p=.001) and 120 min (β=-0.08, p=.02) before the prompt on subsequent glucose levels. When youth spent more time in MVPA than their average and when momentary stress was higher than their average, subsequent glucose was lower. Stress did not moderate associations of ST with glucose (p>.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher momentary stress may interact with higher MVPA to lower subsequent glucose in youth. Accelerometers, EMA, and CGMs can be integrated in future studies to further understand these associations in free-living environments.

Endothelial Dysfunction in Youth-Onset Type 2 Diabetes: A Clinical Translational Study

BACKGROUND

Youth-onset type 2 diabetes (Y-T2D) is associated with increased risk for coronary atherosclerotic disease, but the timing of the earliest pathological features and evidence of cardiac endothelial dysfunction have not been evaluated in this population. Endothelial function magnetic resonance imaging may detect early and direct endothelial dysfunction in the absence of classical risk factors (severe hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia). Using endothelial function magnetic resonance imaging, we evaluated peripheral and coronary artery structure and endothelial function in young adults with Y-T2D diagnosed ≤5 years compared with age-matched healthy peers. We isolated and characterized plasma-derived small extracellular vesicles and evaluated their effects on inflammatory and signaling biomarkers in healthy human coronary artery endothelial cells to validate the imaging findings.

METHODS

Right coronary wall thickness, coronary artery flow-mediated dilation, and brachial artery flow-mediated dilation were measured at baseline and during isometric handgrip exercise using a 3.0T magnetic resonance imaging. Human coronary artery endothelial cells were treated with Y-T2D plasma-derived small extracellular vesicles. Protein expression was measured by Western blot analysis, oxidative stress was measured using the redox-sensitive probe dihydroethidium, and nitric oxide levels were measured by 4-amino-5-methylamino-2',7'-difluororescein diacetate.

RESULTS

Y-T2D (n=20) had higher hemoglobin A1c and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, but similar total and LDL (low-density lipoprotein)-cholesterol compared with healthy peers (n=16). Y-T2D had greater coronary wall thickness (1.33±0.13 versus 1.22±0.13 mm; P=0.04) and impaired endothelial function: lower coronary artery flow-mediated dilation (-3.1±15.5 versus 15.9±17.3%; P<0.01) and brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (6.7±14.7 versus 26.4±15.2%; P=0.001). Y-T2D plasma-derived small extracellular vesicles reduced phosphorylated endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression and nitric oxide levels, increased reactive oxygen species production, and elevated ICAM (intercellular adhesion molecule)-mediated inflammatory pathways in human coronary artery endothelial cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Coronary and brachial endothelial dysfunction was evident in Y-T2D who were within 5 years of diagnosis and did not have severe hyperglycemia or dyslipidemia. Plasma-derived small extracellular vesicles induced markers of endothelial dysfunction, which corroborated accelerated subclinical coronary atherosclerosis as an early feature in Y-T2D.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT02830308 and NCT01399385.

Incidence of Parkinson's disease in Germany based on prevalence data from 70 million patients of the statutory health insurance

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and nonmotor system manifestations and psychiatric symptoms. The aim of this study was to estimate the age- and sex-specific incidence of PD in Germany using an illness-death model and a corresponding partial differential equation (PDE) based on prevalence and mortality data.

METHODS

Based on a PDE that describes the dynamics in an illness-death model, the age- and sex-specific incidence of PD in Germany was estimated using published prevalence and mortality rates. Prevalence rates were provided by the Central Institute for Statutory Health Insurance (Zi) for the period from 2010 to 2019. Parkinson's related mortality was estimated based on comparable population data from Norway. Bootstrapping was used for incidence estimation (median of 5000 samples) and to obtain 95% confidence intervals to interpret the accuracy of the incidence estimation.

RESULTS

Men had higher incidences of PD than women at all ages. The highest incidences (median of 5000 bootstrap samples) for both groups were estimated for the age of 85 years with an incidence of 538.49 per 100,000 person-years (py) in men and 284.09 per 100,000 py in women, with an increasing width of bootstrapping 95% CIs showing greater uncertainty in the estimation at older ages.

CONCLUSION

The illness-death model and the corresponding PDE, which describes changes in prevalence as a function of mortality and incidence, can be used to estimate the incidence of PD as a chronic disease. As overestimation of incidence is less likely with this method, we found incidence rates of Parkinson's disease that are suitable for further analyses with a lower risk of bias.

The Cellular Stability Hypothesis: Evidence of Ferroptosis and Accelerated Aging-Associated Diseases as Newly Identified Nutritional Pentadecanoic Acid (C15:0) Deficiency Syndrome

Ferroptosis is a newly discovered form of cell death caused by the peroxidation of fragile fatty acids in cell membranes, which combines with iron to increase reactive oxygen species and disable mitochondria. Ferroptosis has been linked to aging-related conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Pentadecanoic acid (C15:0), an odd-chain saturated fat, is an essential fatty acid with the primary roles of stabilizing cell membranes and repairing mitochondrial function. By doing so, C15:0 reverses the underpinnings of ferroptosis. Under the proposed "Cellular Stability Hypothesis", evidence is provided to show that cell membranes optimally need >0.4% to 0.64% C15:0 to support long-term health and longevity. A pathophysiology of a newly identified nutritional C15:0 deficiency syndrome ("Cellular Fragility Syndrome") is provided that demonstrates how C15:0 deficiencies (≤0.2% total circulating fatty acids) can increase susceptibilities to ferroptosis, dysmetabolic iron overload syndrome, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and NAFLD. Further, evidence is provided that C15:0 supplementation can reverse the described C15:0 deficiency syndrome, including the key components of ferroptosis. Given the declining dietary intake of C15:0, especially among younger generations, there is a need for extensive studies to understand the potential breadth of Cellular Fragility Syndrome across populations.

Associations Between Sodium-Glucose Co-transporter 2 Inhibitors and Urologic Diseases: Implications for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms From a Multi-State Health System Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the frequency of new urologic visits and urologic diagnoses in patients prescribed sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2is).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Records from a multi-state health system between 2014 and 2022 were reviewed to identify patients referred for outpatient urology evaluation within 2 years of diabetes medication prescription. Patients were stratified by the prescription of SGLT-2is or another diabetes medication. Frequency of urology visits within 1-year, urologic diagnoses, and prescriptions to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) were compared. Patients were stratified by whether they had achieved HbA1c goal (≥7% or <7%) following treatment as well as by sex. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine if SGLT-2 use independently predicted outcomes of interest.

RESULTS

163,827 patients met inclusion criteria. Use of SGLT-2is was associated with a higher frequency of early urologic referral, balanitis/balanoposthitis, overactive bladder, urinary frequency, urgency, and need for LUTS medications in males with HbA1c ≥7%. Females on SGLT-2is with HbA1c ≥7% also had higher rates of urinary incontinence. In those with HbA1c <7%, only balanitis/balanoposthitis and urinary incontinence were higher in the SGLT-2i cohorts for males and females, respectively. Multivariable analysis found SGLT-2i use as predictive of early urology referral, balanitis/balanoposthitis, urinary urgency, frequency, overactive bladder, and need for LUTS medications in males. Multivariable analysis of females demonstrated similar results.

CONCLUSION

SGLT-2is may lead to worse urologic outcomes and increased utilization of urologic care relative to other diabetic medications. Future studies are necessary to identify which patients are at highest risk of adverse urologic outcomes.

Dexamethasone, Glycemic Control, and Outcomes in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Undergoing Elective, Primary Total Joint Arthroplasty

Background

Dexamethasone (DEX) has been shown to reduce pain and postoperative nausea and vomiting for patients undergoing elective total joint arthroplasty (TJA). We investigated the impact of DEX on glycemic control and outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus undergoing elective primary TJA.

Methods

All patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus undergoing primary elective TJA between January 2016 and December 2021 at 4 sites within 1 hospital system were identified. Propensity scores were calculated to match patients receiving or not receiving DEX. Primary outcomes were perioperative blood glucose levels and the incidence of hyperglycemia. Secondary outcomes were the amount of insulin administered, the occurrence of 30-day postoperative surgical site infections, hospital readmission, and mortality.

Results

After matching, we identified 1372 patients. DEX administration was associated with a significant increase in mean blood glucose levels in mg/dL on postoperative days (PODs) 0 to 2: POD 0 (28.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 24.6-32.1), POD 1 (14.4, 95% CI: 10.1-18.8), POD 2 (12.4, 95% CI: 7.5-17.2) when comparing patients who did or did not receive DEX. Additionally, patients receiving DEX, compared to patients who did not receive DEX, had increased odds of experiencing hyperglycemia on POD 0 (odds ratio: 4.0, 95% CI: 3.1-5.2). DEX was not associated with a significant difference in insulin administration, surgical site infections, hospital readmission, or mortality.

Conclusions

In our review of 1372 patients with propensity-matched type 2 diabetes mellitus undergoing elective, primary TJA, we found that DEX administration was associated with an increased risk of elevated mean glucose on POD 0-2, hyperglycemia on POD 0, but was not associated with an increase in total insulin dose administered nor occurrence of surgical site infections, hospital readmission, or mortality within 30 days of surgery in patients who received DEX compared to patients who did not receive DEX.

Level of Evidence

IV.

Subclinical Atherosclerosis to Guide Treatment in Dyslipidemia and Diabetes Mellitus

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus are two common conditions that are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). In this review, we aimed to provide an in-depth and contemporary review of non-invasive approaches to assess subclinical atherosclerotic burden, predict cardiovascular risk, and guide appropriate treatment strategies. We focused this paper on two main imaging modalities: coronary artery calcium (CAC) score and computed tomography coronary angiography.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent longitudinal studies have provided stronger evidence on the relationship between increased CAC, thoracic aorta calcification, and risk of cardiovascular events among those with primary hypercholesterolemia, highlighting the beneficial role of statin therapy. Interestingly, resilient profiles of individuals not exhibiting atherosclerosis despite dyslipidemia have been described. Non-conventional markers of dyslipidemia have also been associated with increased subclinical atherosclerosis presence and burden, highlighting the contribution of apolipoprotein B-100 (apoB)-rich lipoprotein particles, such as remnant cholesterol and lipoprotein(a), to the residual risk of individuals on-target for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goals. Regarding type 2 diabetes mellitus, variability in atherosclerotic burden has also been found, and CAC testing has shown significant predictive value in stratifying cardiovascular risk. Non-invasive assessment of subclinical atherosclerosis can help reveal the continuum of ASCVD risk in those with dyslipidemia and diabetes mellitus and can inform personalized strategies for cardiovascular disease prevention in the primary prevention setting.

A multi-ancestry genome-wide association study in type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease caused by destruction of the pancreatic β-cells. Genome-wide association (GWAS) and fine mapping studies have been conducted mainly in European ancestry (EUR) populations. We performed a multi-ancestry GWAS to identify SNPs and HLA alleles associated with T1D risk and age at onset. EUR families (N = 3223), and unrelated individuals of African (AFR, N = 891) and admixed (Hispanic/Latino) ancestry (AMR, N = 308) were genotyped using the Illumina HumanCoreExome BeadArray, with imputation to the TOPMed reference panel. The Multi-Ethnic HLA reference panel was utilized to impute HLA alleles and amino acid residues. Logistic mixed models (T1D risk) and frailty models (age at onset) were used for analysis. In GWAS meta-analysis, seven loci were associated with T1D risk at genome-wide significance: PTPN22, HLA-DQA1, IL2RA, RNLS, INS, IKZF4-RPS26-ERBB3, and SH2B3, with four associated with T1D age at onset (PTPN22, HLA-DQB1, INS, and ERBB3). AFR and AMR meta-analysis revealed NRP1 as associated with T1D risk and age at onset, although NRP1 variants were not associated in EUR ancestry. In contrast, the PTPN22 variant was significantly associated with risk only in EUR ancestry. HLA alleles and haplotypes most significantly associated with T1D risk in AFR and AMR ancestry differed from that seen in EUR ancestry; in addition, the HLA-DRB1*08:02-DQA1*04:01-DQB1*04:02 haplotype was 'protective' in AMR while HLA-DRB1*08:01-DQA1*04:01-DQB1*04:02 haplotype was 'risk' in EUR ancestry, differing only at HLA-DRB1*08. These results suggest that much larger sample sizes in non-EUR populations are required to capture novel loci associated with T1D risk.

Challenges and pitfalls of youth-onset type 2 diabetes

The incidence and prevalence of youth-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are increasing. The rise in frequency and severity of childhood obesity, inclination to sedentary lifestyle, and epigenetic risks related to prenatal hyperglycemia exposure are important drivers of the youth-onset T2DM epidemic and might as well be responsible for the early onset of diabetes complications. Indeed, youth-onset T2DM has a more extreme metabolic phenotype than adult-onset T2DM, with greater insulin resistance and more rapid deterioration of beta cell function. Therefore, intermediate complications such as microalbuminuria develop in late childhood or early adulthood, while end-stage complications develop in mid-life. Due to the lack of efficacy and safety data, several drugs available for the treatment of adults with T2DM have not been approved in youth, reducing the pharmacological treatment options. In this mini review, we will try to address the present challenges and pitfalls related to youth-onset T2DM and summarize the available interventions to mitigate the risk of microvascular and macrovascular complications.

Rising tide: The global surge of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents demands action now

Childhood-onset obesity has emerged as a major public healthcare challenge across the globe, fueled by an obesogenic environment and influenced by both genetic and epigenetic predispositions. This has led to an exponential rise in the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in children and adolescents. The looming wave of diabetes-related complications in early adulthood is anticipated to strain the healthcare budgets in most countries. Unless there is a collective global effort to curb the devastation caused by the situation, the impact is poised to be pro-found. A multifaceted research effort, governmental legislation, and effective social action are crucial in attaining this goal. This article delves into the current epidemiological landscape, explores evidence concerning potential risks and consequences, delves into the pathobiology of childhood obesity, and discusses the latest evidence-based management strategies for diabesity.

Sleep and insulin sensitivity in adolescents at risk of type 2 diabetes: the Sleep Manipulation in Adolescents at Risk of Type 2 Diabetes randomized crossover study

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effect of increasing sleep duration for 1 week, compared to a week of habitual and decreased sleep, on insulin sensitivity (IS) in adolescents at risk for type 2 diabetes (T2D).

METHODS

Adolescents, 13-18 years old, at risk for T2D, with obesity and other risk factors, were recruited for a randomized (1:1), open-label, sex-stratified crossover study, that manipulated time-in-bed to modify sleep duration (measured by actigraphy). Following a week of habitual (HB) sleep, time-in-bed was increased (IN) and decreased (DE) by 1 hour 30 min/night for 1 week, counterbalanced across participants (HBINDE or HBDEIN), and separated by a week of washout sleep. The main outcome measure was IS, obtained via 2-hour oral-glucose-tolerance-test conducted after each sleep week.

RESULTS

Of the 43 participants recruited, 36 (84%) completed all sleep interventions (52.8% female, age = 15.1 years, body mass index = 99.9th percentile, order: HBINDE = 18 and HBDEIN = 18). On average, during the HB week, participants slept 7 hours 31 min/night; sleep duration was 1 hour 02 min/night higher during the IN week and 1 hour 19 min/night lower during the DE week. We found a significant effect of sleep week on IS with a large effect size. Following the IN sleep week, IS was 20% higher compared to after the HB and DE sleep weeks, but there was no significant difference in IS following HB versus DE sleep weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Whenever possible, clinicians should empower youth at risk of T2D to improve their sleep duration, since even a modest increase in sleep duration of 1 h/night for 1 week can have a positive impact on IS in this population.

CLINICAL TRIALS

Sleep Extension and IS in Adolescents, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03754036, November 23rd, 2018.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov (ID:NCT03754036).

Association between Diabetes and Exfoliation Syndrome

Topic

This systematic review and meta-analysis summarizes the existing evidence for the association of diabetes mellitus (DM) and exfoliation syndrome (XFS).

Clinical Relevance

Understanding and quantifying these associations may aid clinical guidelines or treatment strategies and shed light on disease pathogenesis. The role of DM in determining XFS risk may also be of interest from an individual or public health perspective.

Methods

The study protocol was preregistered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews with registration number CRD42023429771. We systematically searched PubMed and Embase from inception to June 15, 2023. Screening and full-text review were conducted by 2 independent reviewers. All observational studies reporting an age-adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the association between DM and XFS among adults were included. Quantitative synthesis involved a random-effects meta-analysis using the DerSimonian-Laird method to generate a pooled OR. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Results

Fourteen studies (9 cross-sectional and 5 case-control) comprising 47 853 participants were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Random-effects meta-analysis indicated no overall association between DM and XFS (OR 0.94; 95% CI, 0.73–1.21; I 2  = 68.5%). However, subgroup analysis revealed a significant inverse association among individuals ≥ 65 years (OR 0.71; 95% CI, 0.54–0.93) versus individuals < 65 years (OR 1.22; 95% CI, 0.80–1.87; P effect modification  = 0.04). The relation between DM and XFS was also inverse in case-control studies (OR 0.75; 95% CI, 0.58–0.97) but was nonsignificant in cross-sectional studies (OR 1.17; 95% CI, 0.83–1.66; P effect modification  = 0.04). Overall risk of bias was low, with tests for publication bias showing P  ≥ 0.06.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis suggests no association between DM and XFS overall, with possible inverse associations of DM with XFS in older populations. However, given the substantial heterogeneity and borderline significance for publication bias, these findings should be interpreted with caution. Our results give insight into the unique etiology and clinical relevance of XFS while proposing the need for larger longitudinal and genetic biomarker studies.

Financial Disclosure(s)

Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.

Pediatric produce prescription initiatives in the U.S.: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

To describe pediatric Produce Prescription (PRx) interventions and their study designs, outcomes, and opportunities for future research.

METHODS

A scoping review framework was used to describe PRx interventions published between January 2000 and September 2023. Articles from online databases were uploaded into Covidence. Data on study characteristics, outcomes of interest (health, food insecurity (FI), nutritional and culinary efficacy, and fruit and vegetable (F/V) consumption), and feasibility were extracted. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was used for quality assessment.

RESULTS

19 articles met inclusion criteria. Ten studies were quantitative, five were qualitative, and four used mixed-methods. Interventions included food vouchers (n = 14) or food box/pantries (n = 5). Four studies allowed food items in addition to F/Vs. Six studies measured changes in FI and five reported a statistically significant decrease. Seven studies measured changes in F/V consumption and five reported a statistically significant increase. One study reported a statistically significant reduction in child BMI z-score. Most studies reported high feasibility. Few studies used high-quality methods.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric PRx interventions show promising potential to reduce FI and improve diet quality and health-related outcomes. Future studies should utilize rigorous study designs and validated assessment tools to understand the impact of pediatric PRx on health.

IMPACT

This work offers a summary of programmatic outcomes including retention, redemption, incentives, nutrition education, study design and quality limitations to help inform future work. We found positive impacts of pediatric produce prescriptions (PRx) on FI, F/V consumption, and nutritional knowledge and culinary skills. More high-quality, rigorous studies are needed to understand the best delivery and design of PRx and their impact on child behavior and health outcomes. This work provides support for the need for rigorous studies and the potential for PRx to play a role in multi-pronged strategies that address pediatric FI and diet-related disease.

Major adverse events in youth-onset type 1 and type 2 diabetes: The SEARCH and TODAY studies

AIMS

To determine contemporary incidence rates and risk factors for major adverse events in youth-onset T1D and T2D.

METHODS

Participant interviews were conducted once during in-person visits from 2018 to 2019 in SEARCH (T1D: N = 564; T2D: N = 149) and semi-annually from 2014 to 2020 in TODAY (T2D: N = 495). Outcomes were adjudicated using harmonized, predetermined, standardized criteria.

RESULTS

Incidence rates (events per 10,000 person-years) among T1D participants were: 10.9 ophthalmologic; 0 kidney; 11.1 nerve, 3.1 cardiac; 3.1 peripheral vascular; 1.6 cerebrovascular; and 15.6 gastrointestinal events. Among T2D participants, rates were: 40.0 ophthalmologic; 6.2 kidney; 21.2 nerve; 21.2 cardiac; 10.0 peripheral vascular; 5.0 cerebrovascular and 42.8 gastrointestinal events. Despite similar mean diabetes duration, complications were higher in youth with T2D than T1D: 2.5-fold higher for microvascular, 4.0-fold higher for macrovascular, and 2.7-fold higher for gastrointestinal disease. Univariate logistic regression analyses in T1D associated age at diagnosis, female sex, HbA1c and mean arterial pressure (MAP) with microvascular events. In youth-onset T2D, composite microvascular events associated positively with MAP and negatively with BMI, however composite macrovascular events associated solely with MAP.

CONCLUSIONS

In youth-onset diabetes, end-organ events were infrequent but did occur before 15 years diabetes duration. Rates were higher and had different risk factors in T2D versus T1D.

Blood glucose monitoring devices for type 1 diabetes: a journey from the food and drug administration approval to market availability

Blood glucose monitoring constitutes a pivotal element in the clinical management of Type 1 diabetes (T1D), a globally escalating metabolic disorder. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices have demonstrated efficacy in optimizing glycemic control, mitigating adverse health outcomes, and augmenting the overall quality of life for individuals afflicted with T1D. Recent progress in the field encompasses the refinement of electrochemical sensors, which enhances the effectiveness of blood glucose monitoring. This progress empowers patients to assume greater control over their health, alleviating the burdens associated with their condition, and contributing to the overall alleviation of the healthcare system. The introduction of novel medical devices, whether derived from existing prototypes or originating as innovative creations, necessitates adherence to a rigorous approval process regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Diverse device classifications, stratified by their associated risks, dictate distinct approval pathways, each characterized by varying timelines. This review underscores recent advancements in blood glucose monitoring devices primarily based on electrochemical sensors and elucidates their regulatory journey towards FDA approval. The advent of innovative, non-invasive blood glucose monitoring devices holds promise for maintaining stringent glycemic control, thereby preventing T1D-associated comorbidities, and extending the life expectancy of affected individuals.

Metabolic disorders in prediabetes: From mechanisms to therapeutic management

Diabetes, one of the world's top ten diseases, is known for its high mortality and complication rates and low cure rate. Prediabetes precedes the onset of diabetes, during which effective treatment can reduce diabetes risk. Prediabetes risk factors include high-calorie and high-fat diets, sedentary lifestyles, and stress. Consequences may include considerable damage to vital organs, including the retina, liver, and kidneys. Interventions for treating prediabetes include a healthy lifestyle diet and pharmacological treatments. However, while these options are effective in the short term, they may fail due to the difficulty of long-term implementation. Medications may also be used to treat prediabetes. This review examines prediabetic treatments, particularly metformin, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, vitamin D, and herbal medicines. Given the remarkable impact of prediabetes on the progression of diabetes mellitus, it is crucial to intervene promptly and effectively to regulate prediabetes. However, the current body of research on prediabetes is limited, and there is considerable confusion surrounding clinically relevant medications. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the pathogenesis of pre-diabetes mellitus and its associated therapeutic drugs. The ultimate goal is to facilitate the clinical utilization of medications and achieve efficient and timely control of diabetes mellitus.

Effect of a Dietary Intervention on Insulin Requirements and Glycemic Control in Type 1 Diabetes: A 12-Week Randomized Clinical Trial

This study compared the effects of a low-fat vegan diet to those of a portion-controlled diet in people with type 1 diabetes. Over 12 weeks, the average total daily dose of insulin decreased significantly and insulin sensitivity increased significantly in the vegan group, while no significant changes were observed in the group receiving the portion-controlled diet. Total and LDL cholesterol decreased in the vegan group, as did the ratio of blood urea nitrogen to creatinine. A1C decreased in both groups. These findings suggest that a low-fat vegan diet may yield improvements in insulin sensitivity, insulin requirements, glycemic control, and markers of cardiovascular and renal health compared with a portion-controlled diet in people with type 1 diabetes.

Insulin Secretion, Sensitivity, and Kidney Function in Young Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

β-Cell dysfunction and insulin resistance magnify the risk of kidney injury in type 2 diabetes. The relationship between these factors and intraglomerular hemodynamics and kidney oxygen availability in youth with type 2 diabetes remains incompletely explored.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Fifty youth with type 2 diabetes (mean age ± SD 16 ± 2 years; diabetes duration 2.3 ± 1.8 years; 60% female; median HbA1c 6.4% [25th, 75th percentiles 5.9, 7.6%]; BMI 36.4 ± 7.4 kg/m2; urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio [UACR] 10.3 [5.9, 58.0] mg/g) 21 control participants with obesity (OCs; age 16 ± 2 years; 29% female; BMI 37.6 ± 7.4 kg/m2), and 20 control participants in the normal weight category (NWCs; age 17 ± 3 years; 70% female; BMI 22.5 ± 3.6 kg/m2) underwent iohexol and p-aminohippurate clearance to assess glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal plasma flow, kidney MRI for oxygenation, hyperglycemic clamp for insulin secretion (acute C-peptide response to glucose [ACPRg]) and disposition index (DI; ×103 mg/kg lean/min), and DXA for body composition.

RESULTS

Youth with type 2 diabetes exhibited lower DI (0.6 [0.0, 1.6] vs. 3.8 [2.4, 4.5] × 103 mg/kg lean/min; P < 0.0001) and ACPRg (0.6 [0.3, 1.4] vs. 5.3 [4.3, 6.9] nmol/L; P < 0.001) and higher UACR (10.3 [5.9, 58.0] vs. 5.3 [3.4, 14.3] mg/g; P = 0.003) and intraglomerular pressure (77.8 ± 11.5 vs. 64.8 ± 5.0 mmHg; P < 0.001) compared with OCs. Youth with type 2 diabetes and OCs had higher GFR and kidney oxygen availability (relative hyperoxia) than NWCs. DI was associated inversely with intraglomerular pressure and kidney hyperoxia.

CONCLUSIONS

Youth with type 2 diabetes demonstrated severe β-cell dysfunction that was associated with intraglomerular hypertension and kidney hyperoxia. Similar but attenuated findings were found in OCs.

2024 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics: A Report of US and Global Data From the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association (AHA), in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and obesity) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, glucose control, and metabolic syndrome) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The AHA Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, brain health, complications of pregnancy, kidney disease, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, sudden cardiac arrest, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, valvular disease, venous thromboembolism, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

METHODS

The AHA, through its Epidemiology and Prevention Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States and globally to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update with review of published literature through the year before writing. The 2024 AHA Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort in 2023 by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and AHA staff members. The AHA strives to further understand and help heal health problems inflicted by structural racism, a public health crisis that can significantly damage physical and mental health and perpetuate disparities in access to health care, education, income, housing, and several other factors vital to healthy lives. This year's edition includes additional global data, as well as data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population, with an enhanced focus on health equity across several key domains.

RESULTS

Each of the chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policymakers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.

Diabetes and COVID-19 Outcomes: An Analysis of Freeman Health System Patients

BACKGROUND

As COVID-19 continues to affect millions of people around the world, it has become vital to understand how comorbidities such as diabetes affect the health outcomes of these patients. While earlier studies have focused on major metropolitan areas, rural settings have been comparatively understudied. The goal of this study is to understand the effect on mortality that these two diseases have in the inpatient setting of a rural population.

METHODS

The electronic medical records of all adult patients admitted to Freeman Health System, Joplin, Missouri, United States, between April 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021, were reviewed for the presence of COVID-19 infection and/or diabetes (type I and type II). Freeman Health is a major health system headquartered in Southwest Missouri. Diagnoses were obtained through the use of standard International Classification of Disease, 10th edition (ICD-10) codes. The initial data set consisted of 19,323 admissions. After excluding duplicate admissions and those who had already been infected with COVID-19, 1,729 patients with COVID-19, 172 patients with type I diabetes, and 3,992 patients with type II diabetes were included in the analysis of inpatient all-cause mortality. We hypothesized that patients with type I and type II diabetes would both show an increased risk of all-cause mortality. Mortality in the context of our study results refers to all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

The all-cause mortality rate was 19.94% (137/687, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 16.95%-22.93%) in patients admitted with both diabetes (the combined type I and type II subsets) and COVID-19 (P1). The mortality rate was 16.03% (167/1042, with 95% CI of 13.80%-18.25%) in patients admitted with COVID-19 who did not have diabetes (P2). Patients admitted with a comorbid diagnosis of diabetes but without COVID-19 (P5) had a much lower mortality rate of 5.98% (249/4164, with a 95% CI of 5.26%-6.70%). The combination of both COVID-19 and diabetes together was associated with a higher mortality rate than either of the two separately. The mortality rate was additionally elevated in patients with both type II diabetes and COVID-19 (P4) (134/663, mortality rate of 20.21% with 95% CI of 17.15%-23.27%) versus those with COVID-19 without diabetes (P2) (167/1042, 16.03% with 95% CI of 13.80%-18.25%), an overall difference of 4.18% (95% CI of 0.40%-7.94%). The subset of patients with type I diabetes with COVID-19 (P3) and type I diabetes without COVID-19 (P6) were too small to accurately power individual analysis. The subset of patients with diabetes (type I and type II) and without COVID-19 (P5) had the lowest mortality rate of any subset adequately powered for analysis at 5.98% (249/41464, CI of 5.26%-6.70%).  Conclusions: The results of this study show that type II diabetes is a significant risk factor for mortality in admitted COVID-19 patients. P4 had the highest overall mortality of any subset studied. The study was underpowered to show if type I diabetes patients, with and without COVID-19, had an increased mortality when analyzed separately. COVID-19 significantly increased mortality in all subsets adequately powered for full analysis.

Approach to the Patient: Youth-Onset Type 2 Diabetes

Youth-onset type 2 diabetes is a growing epidemic with a rising incidence worldwide. Although the pathogenesis and diagnosis of youth-onset type 2 diabetes are similar to adult-onset type 2 diabetes, youth-onset type 2 diabetes is unique, with greater insulin resistance, insulin hypersecretion, and faster progression of pancreatic beta cell function decline. Individuals with youth-onset type 2 diabetes also develop complications at higher rates within short periods of time compared to adults with type 2 diabetes or youth with type 1 diabetes. The highest prevalence and incidence of youth-onset type 2 diabetes in the United States is among youth from minoritized racial and ethnic groups. Risk factors include obesity, family history of type 2 diabetes, comorbid conditions and use of medications associated with insulin resistance and rapid weight gain, socioeconomic and environmental stressors, and birth history of small-for-gestational-age or pregnancy associated with gestational or pregestational diabetes. Patients with youth-onset type 2 diabetes should be treated using a multidisciplinary model with frequent clinic visits and emphasis on addressing of social and psychological barriers to care and glycemic control, as well as close monitoring for comorbidities and complications. Intensive health behavior therapy is an important component of treatment, in addition to medical management, both of which should be initiated at the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. There are limited but growing pharmacologic treatment options, including metformin, insulin, glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists, and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors. Although long-term outcomes are not fully known, metabolic/bariatric surgery in youth with type 2 diabetes has led to improved cardiometabolic outcomes.

Bromocriptine and Colesevelam Hydrochloride: Novel Therapies for Type II Diabetes Mellitus

The increasing prevalence of type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a worldwide healthcare concern. Over the years, our understanding of T2DM has grown considerably in uncovering the pathophysiology of the disease and, in turn, understanding how improved treatment methods can be used to slow disease progression. Some long-term complications that are responsible for most T2DM mortalities include cardiovascular disease, neurological decline, and renal failure. In treating T2DM, it is important that not only glycemic control be obtained but also control of associated complications. Bromocriptine and colesevelam hydrochloride have both been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat T2DM but are not readily used in practice. These medications are known to treat glycemic dysregulation via unconventional mechanisms, which might contribute to their potential to provide protection against common diabetic complications such as cardiovascular disease. In order to ensure that these overlooked medications become more readily used, it is vital that more research be performed to further elucidate their efficacy in a clinical setting. Future studies should continue to provide clinicians a better understanding of the role these medications have on the treatment of T2DM such as their ability to be used in combination with other commonly used T2DM medications or as monotherapies.

Potassium Magnesium Citrate Is Superior to Potassium Chloride in Reversing Metabolic Side Effects of Chlorthalidone

BACKGROUND

Thiazide diuretics (TD) are the first-line treatment of hypertension because of its consistent benefit in lowering blood pressure and cardiovascular risk. TD is also known to cause an excess risk of diabetes, which may limit long-term use. Although potassium (K) depletion was thought to be the main mechanism of TD-induced hyperglycemia, TD also triggers magnesium (Mg) depletion. However, the role of Mg supplementation in modulating metabolic side effects of TD has not been investigated. Therefore, we aim to determine the effect of potassium magnesium citrate (KMgCit) on fasting plasma glucose and liver fat by magnetic resonance imaging during TD therapy.

METHODS

Accordingly, we conducted a double-blinded RCT in 60 nondiabetic hypertension patients to compare the effects of KCl versus KMgCit during chlorthalidone treatment. Each patient received chlorthalidone alone for 3 weeks before randomization. Primary end point was the change in fasting plasma glucose after 16 weeks of KCl or KMgCit supplementation from chlorthalidone alone.

RESULTS

The mean age of subjects was 59±11 years (30% Black participants). Chlorthalidone alone induced a significant rise in fasting plasma glucose, and a significant fall in serum K, serum Mg, and 24-hour urinary citrate excretion (all P<0.05). KMgCit attenuated the rise in fasting plasma glucose by 7.9 mg/dL versus KCl (P<0.05), which was not observed with KCl. There were no significant differences in liver fat between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

KMgCit is superior to KCl, the common form of K supplement used in clinical practice, in preventing TD-induced hyperglycemia. This action may improve tolerability and cardiovascular safety in patients with hypertension treated with this drug class.

Safety and Glycemic Outcomes During the MiniMedTM Advanced Hybrid Closed-Loop System Pivotal Trial in Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes

Background: During MiniMed™ advanced hybrid closed-loop (AHCL) use by adolescents and adults in the pivotal trial, glycated hemoglobin (A1C) was significantly reduced, time spent in range (TIR) was significantly increased, and there were no episodes of severe hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The present study investigated the same primary safety and effectiveness endpoints during AHCL use by a younger cohort with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Methods: An intention-to-treat population (N = 160, aged 7-17 years) with T1D was enrolled in a single-arm study at 13 investigational centers. There was a run-in period (∼25 days) using HCL or sensor-augmented pump with/without predictive low-glucose management, followed by a 3-month study period with AHCL activated at two glucose targets (GTs; 100 and 120 mg/dL) for ∼45 days each. The mean ± standard deviation values of A1C, TIR, mean sensor glucose (SG), coefficient of variation (CV) of SG, time at SG ranges, and insulin delivered between run-in and study were analyzed (Wilcoxon signed-rank test or t-test). Results: Compared with baseline, AHCL use was associated with reduced A1C from 7.9 ± 0.9% (N = 160) to 7.4 ± 0.7% (N = 136) (P < 0.001) and overall TIR increased from the run-in 59.4 ± 11.8% to 70.3 ± 6.5% by end of study (P < 0.001), without change in CV, time spent below range (TBR) <70 mg/dL, or TBR <54 mg/dL. Relative to longer active insulin time (AIT) settings (N = 52), an AIT of 2 h (N = 19) with the 100 mg/dL GT increased mean TIR to 73.4%, reduced TBR <70 mg/dL from 3.5% to 2.2%, and reduced time spent above range (TAR) >180 mg/dL from 28.7% to 24.4%. During AHCL use, there was no severe hypoglycemia or DKA. Conclusions: In children and adolescents with T1D, MiniMed AHCL system use was safe, A1C was lower, and TIR was increased. The lowest GT and shortest AIT were associated with the highest TIR and lowest TBR and TAR, all of which met consensus-recommended glycemic targets. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03959423.

The role of diabetes in metastatic melanoma patients treated with nivolumab plus relatlimab

BACKGROUND

The combination of nivolumab + relatlimab is superior to nivolumab alone in the treatment of naive patients and has activity in PD-1 refractory melanoma. We had previously observed a reduced expression of LAG3 in melanoma tissue from patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHOD

To evaluate the impact of diabetes on oncological outcomes of patients with advanced melanoma treated with nivolumab plus the LAG3 inhibitor relatlimab we performed a retrospective multicenter study.

RESULTS

Overall, 129 patients were included: 88 without diabetes before the treatment, 37 who were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes before the start of treatment, and 4 without diabetes before treatment who developed immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced diabetes (ICI-DM). PFS was 21.71 months (95% CI: 15.61-27.81) in patients without diabetes, 10.23 months (95% CI: 5.81-14.66) in patients with type 2 diabetes, and 50.85 months (95% CI: 23.04-78.65) in patients who developed ICI-DM. OS was 37.94 months (95% CI: 31.02-44.85) in patients without diabetes, 22.12 months (95% CI: 14.41-29.85) in those with type 2 diabetes and 57.64 months (95% CI: 42.29-72.99) in those who developed ICI-DM. Multivariate analysis showed that the presence of diabetes and LDH was correlated with OS and PFS. The mean OS was 64.63 months in subjects with low levels of glucose (< 137 mg/dl) and 36.27 months in those with high levels (hazard ratio 0.16, 95% CI: 0.04-0.58; p = 0.005). The patients whose glucose blood level increased after 3 months of treatment with nivolumab + relatinib compared to baseline (ratio of blood level at baseline/after 3 months > 1.5) had a worse prognosis than those whose glucose level had not increased. This result was observed also in subgroups treated either in first line or further lines. Patients who developed ICI-DM during the study period had better outcomes than the overall population and patients without diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

LAG3 inhibition for treating metastatic or unresectable melanoma has a reduced efficacy in patients with type 2 diabetes, possibly due to a low expression of LAG3 in tumor tissue. Higher level evidence should be obtained.

Risk Factors for Progression to Type 2 Diabetes in a Pediatric Prediabetes Clinic Population

Background

Pediatric type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing in prevalence, yet it is unclear what definition of pediatric prediabetes predicts progression to T2D. Strategies are needed to better identify at risk individuals who could benefit from early intervention.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of a pediatric prediabetes clinic over 7 years. Inclusion criteria include hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C) and ≥1 glucose from oral glucose tolerance test. Exclusion criteria include type 1 diabetes, maturity onset diabetes of the young, or T2D on initial visit.

Results

A total of 552 patients were included, 6.5% (n = 36) progressed to T2D over 2.4 ± 1.5 years. At initial visit, T2D progressors had a higher body mass index (38.6 ± 6.5 vs 34.2 ± 8.4 kg/m2, P = .002), HbA1C (6.0 ± 0.3%, vs 5.7± 0.3, P < .001), 2-hour glucose (141 ± 28 vs 114 ± 29 mg/dL, P < .001), and C-peptide (4.8 vs 3.6 ng/mL, P = .001). Fasting glucose was not significantly different. In a multivariable model, male sex (hazard ratio [HR], 2.4; P = .012), initial visit HbA1C (HR, 1.3 per 0.1% increase; P < .001), and 2-hour glucose level (HR, 1.2 per 10 mg/dL increase; P = .014) were all predictive of T2D progression. Patients who progressed to T2D had an increase in body mass index of 4.2 kg/m2 and children consistently taking metformin took longer to progress (43 ± 21 vs 26 ± 16 months; P = .016).

Discussion

A total of 6.5% of patients with prediabetes developed T2D over a 7-year period. Initial visit laboratory values and weight trajectory may allow for risk stratification, whereas fasting plasma glucose is less helpful. Weight stabilization and metformin therapy could be important interventions for diabetes prevention in children.

The role of structural racism and geographical inequity in diabetes outcomes

Diabetes is pervasive, exponentially growing in prevalence, and outpacing most diseases globally. In this Series paper, we use new theoretical frameworks and a narrative review of existing literature to show how structural inequity (structural racism and geographical inequity) has accelerated rates of diabetes disease, morbidity, and mortality globally. We discuss how structural inequity leads to large, fixed differences in key, upstream social determinants of health, which influence downstream social determinants of health and resultant diabetes outcomes in a cascade of widening inequity. We review categories of social determinants of health with known effects on diabetes outcomes, including public awareness and policy, economic development, access to high-quality care, innovations in diabetes management, and sociocultural norms. We also provide regional perspectives, grounded in our theoretical framework, to highlight prominent, real-world challenges.

Disrupted Pediatric Diabetes Trends in the Second Year of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Context

Increases in incident cases of pediatric type 1 (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) were observed during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective

This work aimed to identify trends in incidence and presentation of pediatric new-onset T1D and T2D during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted. Demographics, anthropometrics, and initial laboratory results from patients aged 0 to 21 years who presented with new-onset diabetes to a pediatric tertiary care center were recorded.

Results

The incident cases of T1D (n = 46) and T2D (n = 46) in 2021-2022 (second year of the pandemic) were consistent with the incident cases of T1D (n = 46) and T2D (n = 53) in 2020 to 2021 (first year of the pandemic). Compared to the incident cases of diabetes in the prepandemic years, in the second year, the incident cases of T1D increased 48%, and the incident cases of T2D increased 188%. In the second year of the pandemic, incident cases of T2D represented half (50%) of all newly diagnosed pediatric diabetes cases. Patients with T2D were more likely to present in diabetic ketoacidosis, though this was not statistically significant (P = .08).

Conclusion

The increase in incident cases of pediatric T1D and T2D observed during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic persisted during the second pandemic year. This suggests that despite pediatric vaccination efforts and return to social in-person activities, we may continue to see effects of the pandemic on pediatric diabetes trends.

Triciribine attenuates pathological neovascularization and vascular permeability in a mouse model of proliferative retinopathy

Proliferative retinopathies are the leading cause of irreversible blindness in all ages, and there is a critical need to identify novel therapies. We investigated the impact of triciribine (TCBN), a tricyclic nucleoside analog and a weak Akt inhibitor, on retinal neurovascular injury, vascular permeability, and inflammation in oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). Post-natal day 7 (P7) mouse pups were subjected to OIR, and treated (i.p.) with TCBN or vehicle from P14-P16 and compared with age-matched, normoxic, vehicle or TCBN-treated controls. P17 retinas were processed for flat mounts, immunostaining, Western blotting, and qRT-PCR studies. Fluorescein angiography, electroretinography, and spectral domain optical coherence tomography were performed on days P21, P26, and P30, respectively. TCBN treatment significantly reduced pathological neovascularization, vaso-obliteration, and inflammation marked by reduced TNFα, IL6, MCP-1, Iba1, and F4/80 (macrophage/microglia markers) expression compared to the vehicle-treated OIR mouse retinas. Pathological expression of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), and claudin-5 compromised the blood-retinal barrier integrity in the OIR retinas correlating with increased vascular permeability and neovascular tuft formation, which were blunted by TCBN treatment. Of note, there were no changes in the retinal architecture or retinal cell function in response to TCBN in the normoxia or OIR mice. We conclude that TCBN protects against pathological neovascularization, restores blood-retinal barrier homeostasis, and reduces retinal inflammation without adversely affecting the retinal structure and neuronal function in a mouse model of OIR. Our data suggest that TCBN may provide a novel therapeutic option for proliferative retinopathy.

Youth-Onset Type 2 Diabetes: Burden of Complications and Socioeconomic Cost

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

With the rise in prevalence of youth-onset type 2 diabetes (T2DM), it is imperative to understand the clinical burden of the disease and the socioeconomic burden this disease imposes. We review the most recent data on youth-onset T2DM, including its pathophysiology, complications, and treatment. We also review existing data to determine the socioeconomic burden of youth-onset T2DM.

RECENT FINDINGS

The incidence of youth-onset T2DM is rising, and significantly accelerated following the COVID-19 pandemic. Youth with T2DM are more frequently from families of racial/ethnic minorities and lower socioeconomic status. Youth-onset T2DM has more rapid disease progression compared to adult-onset type 2 diabetes. It results in earlier and more severe microvascular and macrovascular complications compared to both adult-onset T2DM and youth-onset type 1 diabetes (T1DM). While there is a lack of data describing the socioeconomic cost of youth-onset T2DM, based on extrapolation from analyses of the burden of T2DM in adults and T1DM in youth, we propose that youth-onset T2DM has higher direct and indirect costs than adult-onset T2DM. Youth-onset T2DM presents a significant clinical and socioeconomic burden due to its aggressive presentation and earlier appearance of complications. Additional research is needed regarding the cost of illness in this population.

Estimating incidence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes using prevalence data: the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth study

BACKGROUND

Incidence is one of the most important epidemiologic indices in surveillance. However, determining incidence is complex and requires time-consuming cohort studies or registries with date of diagnosis. Estimating incidence from prevalence using mathematical relationships may facilitate surveillance efforts. The aim of this study was to examine whether a partial differential equation (PDE) can be used to estimate diabetes incidence from prevalence in youth.

METHODS

We used age-, sex-, and race/ethnicity-specific estimates of prevalence in 2001 and 2009 as reported in the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth study. Using these data, a PDE was applied to estimate the average incidence rates of type 1 and type 2 diabetes for the period between 2001 and 2009. Estimates were compared to annual incidence rates observed in SEARCH. Precision of the estimates was evaluated using 95% bootstrap confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Despite the long period between prevalence measures, the estimated average incidence rates mirror the average of the observed annual incidence rates. Absolute values of the age-standardized sex- and type-specific mean relative errors are below 8%.

CONCLUSIONS

Incidence of diabetes can be accurately estimated from prevalence. Since only cross-sectional prevalence data is required, employing this methodology in future studies may result in considerable cost savings.