Type 2 diabetes in the young: the evolving epidemic: the international diabetes federation consensus workshop

Incidence and prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Manitoba children 2009-10 to 2017-18: First Nation versus all other Manitobans

AIM

To describe the incidence and prevalence of type 2 diabetes in children in Manitoba over a ten-year period.

METHODS

Population-based, provincial databases were linked to calculate the incidence and prevalence of type 2 diabetes in children < 18 years of age in Manitoba from 2009-10 to 2017-18. First Nation and all other Manitoban children are described separately.

RESULTS

The incidence of type 2 diabetes increased from 16.0/100,000/year in 2009-10 to 31‧1/100,000/year in 2017-18 (p < 0.001). For First Nation children, the incidence increased from 73‧4 to 121‧2/100,000/year (p < 0.001). For all other Manitoban children, the incidence increased from 3‧3 to 10‧7/100,000/year (p < 0.001). The prevalence of type 2 diabetes rose from 66‧4 to 124‧2/100,000/year between 2009 -10 and 2017-18 (<0.001). The prevalence in First Nation children rose from 282‧8 to 517‧9/100,000/year (p < 0.001) and in all other Manitoban children from 18‧4 to 35.0/100,000/year (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence and prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing in Manitoban children. While the greatest increase is seen in all other Manitoban children, type 2 diabetes disproportionally affects First Nation children. Understanding the prevalence and incidence of type 2 diabetes in children is necessary for resource allocation and to inform program planning, aimed at both prevention and management.

Comparison of Quantile Regression and Gaussian (Z-scores) Percentiles to BSA in Growth Charts With a Pakistani Population

Introduction: In the current study, we construct growth charts of body surface area (BSA) for adults using the quantile regression (QR) approach and growth charts of different Gaussian Percentiles (Z-scores) against age. Methods: A cross-sectional data consisting of 3,473 individuals aged 5 or more, both males and females were taken from Multan city. Quantile regression (QR) was used to construct BSA growth charts. Growth charts for different Z-scores were also constructed. Results: For our data set, the mean BSA is 0.48750. The BSA percentiles show a trending higher after the age of 5 until the age of 22, then decrease between age 22 and 35, and then finally increase after age 35. The Z-score curve increases slightly after age 5 and then proceeds higher until age 22. After age 22 and before 35 it plateaus and then increases slightly after age 35. Conclusion: Since the use of empirical BSA percentiles and Z-scores with grouped age provides a discrete approximation for the population percentiles and Z-scores, it is more accurate to use continuous BSA percentile and Z-score, curves against given ages while using quantile regression and Z-score approach. Furthermore, this approach can also be adopted to construct many other growth charts for physiological and medical sciences.

Nitro-oleic acid ameliorates erectile dysfunction in a streptozotocin-induced rat model of diabetes by inhibiting oxidative stress and apoptosis and activating the NO/cGMP pathway

The major vascular complications associated with diabetes make the management of diabetic mellitus erectile dysfunction (DMED) a challenging endeavor. Notable factors contributing to DMED include oxidative stress, nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway activation, and apoptosis, while nitro-oleic acid (NO 2 -OA) has been shown to be beneficial in treating these aspects of this condition. We, herein, investigated the effects and possible mechanisms of NO 2 -OA on erectile function as assessed in a streptozotocin-induced rat model of diabetes. Our results revealed that the erectile function of DMED rats was significantly impaired compared with that of the control group. However, in response to 4 weeks of NO 2 -OA treatment, there was an improvement in erectile function. The expression of oxidative stress-related indicators was significantly increased and the NO/cGMP pathway was impaired in the DMED group. The expression of proapoptotic factors was increased, while that of antiapoptotic factors was decreased in the DMED group. Moreover, the cell morphology in the cavernous tissue of the DMED group also changed adversely. NO 2 -OA treatment significantly reversed all these changes observed in the DMED group. In conclusion, NO 2 -OA treatment partially improved erectile function in DMED rats through mechanisms that included inhibition of oxidative stress, activation of the NO/cGMP pathway, and a reduction in apoptosis.

Sleep deprivation and aging are metabolically linked across tissues

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Insufficient sleep is a concerning hallmark of modern society because sleep deprivation (SD) is a risk factor for neurodegenerative and cardiometabolic disorders. SD imparts an aging-like effect on learning and memory, although little is known about possible common molecular underpinnings of SD and aging. Here, we examine this question by profiling metabolic features across different tissues after acute SD in young adult and aged mice.

METHODS

Young adult and aged mice were subjected to acute SD for 5 hours. Blood plasma, hippocampus, and liver samples were subjected to UPLC-MS/MS-based metabolic profiling.

RESULTS

SD preferentially impacts peripheral plasma and liver profiles (e.g. ketone body metabolism) whereas the hippocampus is more impacted by aging. We further demonstrate that aged animals exhibit SD-like metabolic features at baseline. Hepatic alterations include parallel changes in nicotinamide metabolism between aging and SD in young animals. Overall, metabolism in young adult animals is more impacted by SD, which in turn induces aging-like features. A set of nine metabolites was classified (79% correct) based on age and sleep status across all four groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our metabolic observations demonstrate striking parallels to previous observations in studies of learning and memory and define a molecular metabolic signature of sleep loss and aging.

Relationship between adiponectin and blood pressure in obese Latino adolescent boys with a family history of type 2 diabetes

INTRODUCTION

Adipokines are associated with several pathological states including, metabolic syndrome, obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. One of these adipokines, adiponectin is of particular interest as it has been shown to have numerous anti-inflammatory effects, However, the association between adiponectin and blood pressure remains inconclusive especially in the Latino adolescent with obesity.

PURPOSE

To investigate the relationship between plasma adiponectin and blood pressure in Latino adolescents' boys with obesity and a with a family history of Type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Thirty two Latino adolescent males with obesity aged 14-17 years with a family history of type 2 diabetes underwent a frequently sampled glucose tolerance test (FSIVGTT) to measure insulin sensitivity. Body composition was assessed using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Obesity was defined as having a BMI percentile ≥95. Blood pressure was assessed using the Dinamap automated blood pressure monitor, and the average of three readings was used in the analysis. Fasting plasma adiponectin was determined using radioimmunoassay.

RESULTS

There were moderate positive significant correlations for adiponectin and Systolic blood pressure(SBP) (rho = 0.436, p < 0.027) and Diastolic blood pressure(DBP) (rho = 0.41,p < 0.028). A multivariate liner regression showed that plasma adiponectin could significantly detect 19% of the variance in SBP (p = 0.017, and 33% for DBP (p = 0.017). In a simple linear regression adiponectin was not related to any of our variables (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, adiponectin was positively and significantly correlated to blood pressure in Latino adolescent with obesity. Future studies should investigate this relationship in a large sample of Latino adolescent youth.

Serum homocysteine level in newly diagnosed young patients with abnormal glucose tolerance

Background

Hyperhomocysteinemia is an emerging risk factor causing early-onset cardiovascular events. The objective of the study was to assess serum homocysteine levels in newly diagnosed young persons (age < 30 years) with abnormal glucose tolerance.

Methodology

This cross-sectional study included 40 young participants with newly diagnosed abnormal glucose tolerance (including prediabetes and diabetes mellitus) and an equal number of young persons with normal glucose tolerance (normal glucose tolerance vs prediabetes vs. diabetes mellitus-age (years): 25.0 (22.0, 28.0) vs 25.50 (21.50, 27.0) vs 28.0 (25.0, 29.0), median (interquartile range)). Glycemic status was diagnosed by American Diabetes Association, 2021 criteria. After taking clinical information, fasting blood was collected to measure homocysteine by chemiluminescent immunoassay.

Results

Homocysteine level was different across the spectrum of glycemic status (normal glucose tolerance vs. prediabetes vs. diabetes mellitus: 15.57 (13.89-20.71) vs 13.19 (11.40-18.11) vs 12.27 (9.97-14.42) µmol/L; median (interquartile range); p = 0.006). Serum homocysteine was significantly elevated in participants with normal glucose tolerance than diabetes mellitus (p = 0.006) but statistically similar in prediabetes in comparison to both normal glucose tolerance and diabetes mellitus (p = NS for both). Homocysteine level was above the normal level in 47.5% of participants with normal glucose tolerance and in 22.5% with abnormal glucose tolerance (p = 0.019).

Conclusions

Patients under 30 years with diabetes mellitus had lower homocysteine levels than those with normal glucose tolerance.

High-Intensity Interval Training Improves Glycemic Control, Cellular Apoptosis, and Oxidative Stress of Type 2 Diabetic Patients

Background and Objectives: Physical exercise is an important therapeutic modality for treating and managing diabetes. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is considered one of the best non-drug strategies for preventing and treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by improving mitochondrial biogenesis and function. This study aimed to determine the effects of 12 weeks of HIIT training on the expression of tumor suppressor protein-p53, mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase (COX), and oxidative stress in patients with T2DM. Methods: A total of thirty male sedentary patients aged (45-60 years) were diagnosed with established T2DM for more than five years. Twenty healthy volunteers, age- and sex-matched, were included in this study. Both patients and control subjects participated in the HIIT program for 12 weeks. Glycemic control variables including p53 (U/mL), COX (ng/mL), total antioxidant capacity (TAC, nmole/µL), 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG, ng/mL), as well as genomic and mitochondrial DNA content were measured in both the serum and muscle tissues of control and patient groups following exercise training. Results: There were significant improvements in fasting glucose levels. HbA1c (%), HOMA-IR (mUmmol/L2), fasting insulin (µU/mL), and C-peptide (ng/mL) were reported in T2DM and healthy controls. A significant decrease was also observed in p53 protein levels. COX, 8-OhdG, and an increase in the level of TAC were reported in T2DM following 12 weeks of HIIT exercise. Before and after exercise, p53; COX, mt-DNA content, TAC, and 8-OhdG showed an association with diabetic control parameters such as fasting glucose (FG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C, %), C-peptide, fasting insulin (FI), and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in patients with T2DM. These findings support the positive impact of HIIT exercise in improving regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis and subsequent control of diabetes through anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative pathways. Conclusions: A 12-week HIIT program significantly improves diabetes by reducing insulin resistance; regulating mitochondrial biogenesis; and decreasing oxidative stress capacity among patients and healthy controls. Also; p53 protein expression; COX; 8-OhdG; and TAC and mt-DNA content were shown to be associated with T2DM before and after exercise training.

The Association Between Diabetes Duration and Domain-Specific Cognitive Impairment: A Population-Based Study

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is a risk factor for cognitive impairment, and disease duration is associated with geriatric decline and functional disabilities.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the association of diabetes duration with domain-specific cognitive impairment in elderly.

METHODS

A total of 3,142 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from the period between 2011 and 2014 were included. We assessed cognitive function using the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), the CERAD Word Learning (CERAD-WL) test, the CERAD Delayed Recall (CERAD-DR) test and animal fluency (AF) test.

RESULTS

After adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education level, and annual household income, we found that diabetes with a duration longer than 20 years were at 3.32-fold increased risk of DSST impairment (OR = 3.32, 95% CI: 1.95 to 5.67), 1.72-fold increased risk of CERAD-WL impairment (OR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.13 to 2.62), and 1.76-fold increased risk of AF impairment (OR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.23 to 2.53), compared with those with no diabetes. Associations were generally stronger in women than in men. Participants with diabetes, who were diagnosed at 50-59 years old were at increased risk of DSST impairment, CERAD-WL impairment, CERAD-DR impairment, and AF impairment per 5 years longer duration of diabetes.

CONCLUSION

Longer diabetes duration was associated with the increased risk of cognitive impairment, especially in processing speed and attention. The presence of chronic kidney disease was associated with the increased risk of DSST impairment.

Childhood body mass index trajectories, adult-onset type 2 diabetes, and obesity-related cancers

BACKGROUND

Elevated childhood body mass index (BMI), commonly examined as a "once-only" value, increases the risk of cancer and type 2 diabetes (T2D) in adulthood. Continuous exposure to adiposity during childhood may further increase cancer risk. We examined whether longitudinal childhood BMI trajectories were associated with adult obesity-related cancer and the role of adult-onset T2D in these associations.

METHODS

Five sex-specific latent class BMI trajectories were generated for 301 927 children (149 325 girls) aged 6-15 years from the Copenhagen School Health Records Register. Information on obesity-related cancers and T2D was obtained from national health registers. Incidence rate ratios (IRR), cumulative incidences, and confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using Poisson regressions.

RESULTS

Compared with the average childhood BMI trajectory (containing approximately 40% of individuals), the rate of obesity-related cancer (excluding breast cancer) increased with higher childhood BMI trajectories among women. The highest rates occurred in the overweight (IRR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.17 to 1.38) and obesity (IRR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.53 to 2.08) BMI trajectories. Similar patterns were observed among men. In contrast, women with the obesity childhood BMI trajectory had the lowest rate of pre- and postmenopausal breast cancer (IRR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.43 to 0.80, and IRR = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.30 to 0.57, respectively). For all trajectories, the cumulative risk of obesity-related cancer increased with adult-onset T2D.

CONCLUSION

Consistent childhood overweight or obesity may increase the rates of adult obesity-related cancer and decrease the rates of breast cancer. Adult-onset T2D conferred additional risk for obesity-related cancer, but the effect did not differ across childhood BMI trajectories.

Cook like a Boss Online: an adapted intervention during the COVID-19 pandemic that effectively improved children's perceived cooking competence, movement competence and wellbeing

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated physical inactivity, poor dietary intake and reduced mental wellbeing, contributing factors to non-communicable diseases in children. Cooking interventions are proposed as having a positive influence on children's diet quality. Motor skills have been highlighted as essential for performance of cooking skills, and this movement may contribute to wellbeing. Additionally, perceived competence is a motivator for behaviour performance and thus important for understanding intervention effectiveness. Therefore, this research aimed to assess the effectiveness of an adapted virtual theory-based cooking intervention on perceived cooking competence, perceived movement competence and wellbeing.

METHODS

The effective theory-driven and co-created 'Cook Like A Boss' was adapted to a virtual five day camp-styled intervention, with 248 children across the island of Ireland participating during the pandemic. Pre- and post-intervention assessments of perceived cooking competence, perceived movement competence and wellbeing using validated measurements were completed through online surveys. Bivariate Correlations, paired samples t-tests and Hierarchical multiple regression modelling was conducted using SPSS to understand the relationships between the variables and the effect of the intervention.

RESULTS

210 participants had matched survey data and were included in analysis. Significant positive correlations were shown between perceived cooking competence, perceived movement competence and wellbeing (P < 0.05). Children's perceived cooking competence (P < 0.001, medium to large effect size), perceived movement competence (P < 0.001, small to medium effect size) and wellbeing (P = 0.013, small effect size) all significantly increased from pre to post intervention. For the Hierarchical regression, the final model explained 57% of the total variance in participants' post-intervention perceived cooking competence. Each model explained a significant amount of variance (P < 0.05). Pre-intervention perceived cooking competence, wellbeing, age and perceived movement competence were significant predictors for post-intervention perceived cooking competence in the final model.

CONCLUSION

The 'Cook Like A Boss' Online intervention was an adapted virtual outreach intervention. It provides initial evidence for the associations between perceived cooking competence, perceived movement and wellbeing as well as being effective in their improvement. This research shows the potential for cooking to be used as a mechanism for targeting improvements in not only diet quality but also movement and wellbeing.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT05395234. Retrospectively registered on 26th May 2022.

Causal associations between age at diagnosis of diabetes and cardiovascular outcomes: a Mendelian randomization study

CONTEXT

Whether diabetes diagnosed at different age groups is causally associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted two-sample Mendelian randomization analyses to investigate the causal associations of diabetes by age at diagnosis with five type-specific CVDs and 11 cardiometabolic traits.

METHODS

We selected 208 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for diabetes and 3, 21, 57, and 14 SNPs for diabetes diagnosed at <50, 50-60, 60-70, and >70 years, respectively, based on the GWAS (24,986 cases/187,130 controls) in the UK Biobank, and extracted genetic associations with stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and CVD mortality, as well as blood pressures, adiposity measurements, and lipids and apolipoproteins from corresponding European-descent GWASs. The inverse-variance weighted method was used as main analysis with several sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

Diabetes diagnosed at all four age groups was causally associated with increased risks of stroke (5%-8%) and myocardial infarction (8%-10%), higher systolic blood pressure (0.56-0.94 mmHg) and waist-to-hip ratio (0.003-0.004), and lower body mass index (0.31-0.42 kg/m2), waist circumference (0.68-0.99 cm), and hip circumference (0.57-0.80 cm). Diabetes diagnosed at specific age groups was causally associated with increased risks of heart failure (4%) and CVD mortality (8%), higher diastolic blood pressure (0.20 mmHg) and triglycerides (0.06 SD), and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (0.02 mmol/L). The effect sizes of genetically determined diabetes on CVD subtypes and cardiometabolic traits were comparable and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals largely overlapped across the four age groups.

CONCLUSION

Our findings provide novel evidence that genetically determined diabetes subgroups by age at diagnosis have similar causal effects on CVD and cardiometabolic risks.

Youth-onset type 2 diabetes in Israel: A national cohort

BACKGROUND

Prevalence of youth-onset type 2 diabetes (T2D) has increased worldwide, paralleling the rise in pediatric obesity. Occurrence and clinical manifestations vary regionally and demographically.

OBJECTIVES

We assessed the incidence, and clinical and demographic manifestations of youth-onset T2D in Israel.

METHODS

In a national observational study, demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected from the medical records of children and adolescents, aged 10-18 years, diagnosed with T2D between the years 2008 and 2019.

RESULTS

The incidence of youth-onset T2D in Israel increased significantly from 0.63/100,000 in 2008 to 3.41/100,000 in 2019. The study cohort comprised 379 individuals (228 girls [59.7%], 221 Jews [58.3%], mean age 14.7 ± 1.9 years); 73.1% had a positive family history of T2D. Mean body mass index (BMI) z-score was 1.96 ± 0.7, higher in Jews than Arabs. High systolic (≥ 130 mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure (≥ 85 mmHg) were observed in 33.7% and 7.8% of patients, respectively; mean glycosylated hemoglobin (A1c) level at diagnosis was 8.8 ± 2.5%. Dyslipidemia, with high triglyceride (>150 mg/dl) and low HDL-c (<40 mg/dl) levels, was found in 45.6% and 56.5%, respectively. Microalbuminuria and retinopathy were documented at diagnosis, 15.2% and 1.9%, respectively) and increased (36.7% and 4.6%, respectively) at follow-up of 2.9 ± 2.1 years. Criteria of metabolic syndrome were met by 224 (62.2%) patients, and fatty liver documented in 65%, mainly Jews. Psychosocial comorbidity was found in 31%. Treatment with metformin (45.6%), insulin (20.6%), and lifestyle modification (18%) improved glycemic control.

CONCLUSION

Youth-onset T2D in Israel has increased significantly and presents a unique profile.

Insights Into Platelet-Derived MicroRNAs in Cardiovascular and Oncologic Diseases: Potential Predictor and Therapeutic Target

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), represented by cardiovascular diseases and cancer, have been the leading cause of death globally. Improvements in mortality from cardiovascular (CV) diseases (decrease of 14%/100,000, United States) or cancers (increase 7.5%/100,000, United States) seem unsatisfactory during the past two decades, and so the search for innovative and accurate biomarkers of early diagnosis and prevention, and novel treatment strategies is a valuable clinical and economic endeavor. Both tumors and cardiovascular system are rich in angiological systems that maintain material exchange, signal transduction and distant regulation. This pattern determines that they are strongly influenced by circulating substances, such as glycolipid metabolism, inflammatory homeostasis and cyclic non-coding RNA and so forth. Platelets, a group of small anucleated cells, inherit many mature proteins, mRNAs, and non-coding RNAs from their parent megakaryocytes during gradual formation and manifest important roles in inflammation, angiogenesis, atherosclerosis, stroke, myocardial infarction, diabetes, cancer, and many other diseases apart from its classical function in hemostasis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs containing ∼22 nucleotides that participate in many key cellular processes by pairing with mRNAs at partially complementary binding sites for post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Platelets contain fully functional miRNA processors in their microvesicles and are able to transport their miRNAs to neighboring cells and regulate their gene expression. Therefore, the importance of platelet-derived miRNAs for the human health is of increasing interest. Here, we will elaborate systematically the roles of platelet-derived miRNAs in cardiovascular disease and cancer in the hope of providing clinicians with new ideas for early diagnosis and therapeutic strategies.

Transcultural Lifestyle Medicine in Type 2 Diabetes Care: Narrative Review of the Literature

Disparities in type 2 diabetes (T2D) care is a global problem across diverse cultures. The Dysglycemia-Based Chronic Disease (DBCD) model promotes early and sustainable interventions along the insulin resistance (stage 1), prediabetes (stage 2), T2D (stage 3), and complications (stage 4) spectrum. In this model, lifestyle medicine is the cornerstone of preventive care to reduce DBCD progression and the socioeconomic/biological burden of disease. A comprehensive literature review, spanning 2000 to 2021, was performed and 55 studies were included examining the effects of lifestyle medicine and their cultural adaptions with different prevention modalities. In stage 1, primordial prevention targets modifiable primary drivers (behavior and environment), unhealthy lifestyles, abnormal adiposity, and insulin resistance with educational and motivational health promotion activities at individual, group, community, and population-based scales. Primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention targets individuals with mild hyperglycemia, severe hyperglycemia, and complications, respectively, using programs that incorporate structured lifestyle interventions. Culturally adapted lifestyle change in primary and secondary prevention improved quality of life and biomarkers, but with a limited impact of tertiary prevention on cardiovascular events. In conclusion, lifestyle medicine with cultural adaptations is an integral part of preventive care in patients with T2D. However, considerable research gaps exist, especially for tertiary prevention.

Can a practice pharmacist improve prescribing safety and reduce costs in polypharmacy patients? A pilot study of an intervention in an Irish general practice setting

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to develop and assess the feasibility and cost impact of an intervention involving a practice pharmacist embedded in general practice to improve prescribing safety, deprescribe where appropriate and reduce costs.

SETTING

Four-doctor suburban general practice.

PARTICIPANTS

Inclusion criteria: patients receiving 10+ repeat drugs per month.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

deceased, <18 years of age, nursing home resident, no longer attending, late-stage life-limiting condition, unsuitable on clinical/capacity grounds. 137 patients were eligible. 78 were recruited as participants, all of whom completed the study.

INTERVENTION

Pharmacist conducting holistic medication reviews in the study group over a 6-month period.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Anonymised medication changes, cost, biochemical monitoring and clinical measurements data were collected. Cost analysis of having a pharmacist as part of the general practice team was calculated.

RESULTS

In total, 198 potentially inappropriate prescriptions (PIPs), and 163 opportunities for deprescribing were identified; 127 PIPs (64.1%) were actioned; 104 deprescribing opportunities were actioned (63.8%). The pharmacist identified 101 instances in which further investigations were warranted prior to prescription issue, of which 80 were actioned (79.2%). It was calculated that monthly savings of €1252 were made as a result of deprescribing.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has shown that the integration of pharmacists within general practice in Ireland is feasible and is an effective means of improving prescribing safety and implementing deprescribing through medication reviews. The combination of safety and cost concerns support taking a holistic approach to deprescribing with the patient. This study highlights the ease with which a pharmacist could integrate into the general practice setting in Ireland and points to how this could be sustainably funded.

Uric acid as a predictor of weight gain and cardiometabolic health in the Study of Novel Approaches to Weight Gain Prevention (SNAP) study

Young adulthood is often a period of substantial weight gain increasing risk for obesity and cardiometabolic disease. Uric acid (UA), a clinical marker of oxidative stress, is associated with cardiometabolic dysfunction in established CVD, type 2 diabetes, and CKD. Yet, few trials have examined UA as a predictor of cardiometabolic risk in young, healthy populations, particularly in the context of weight gain prevention intervention. The purpose of this ancillary study was to examine UA in the Study of Novel Approaches to Weight Gain Prevention (SNAP), a randomized, controlled trial of weight gain prevention strategies in young healthy adults. UA was examined as a predictor of weight and cardiometabolic outcomes over 6 years; the impact of weight gain prevention interventions on UA was also examined. We found that higher baseline UA was a significant predictor of less favorable BMI, triglycerides, HDL, glucose, insulin, and HOMA, independent of age, sex, baseline weight, baseline level of the outcome variable, and weight gain prevention intervention. Additionally, ≥1% weight loss was associated with lower UA. UA is a promising biomarker for future weight gain and cardiometabolic risk in young adults that may respond to weight gain prevention.Clinical trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT01183689.

Effects of a 12-Month Hybrid (In-Person + Virtual) Education Program in the Glycemic Status of Arab Youth

This 12-month school-based intervention study investigated the effects of hybrid educational lifestyle modifications on glycemic control among Saudi youth with different glycemic statuses. A total of 2600 Arab adolescents aged 12−18 years were recruited from 60 randomly selected schools. Anthropometrics, blood glucose, and HbA1c were measured pre- and post-intervention. Participants were grouped according to baseline HbA1c into normal, prediabetes, and diabetes groups. All participants received lifestyle education at base line and at every 3-month interval to improve diet and exercise behavior. Diabetic and prediabetic participants received a tailored lifestyle intervention. Post-intervention, 643 participants were analyzed as follows: 20 participants from the diabetes group, 39 from prediabetes, and 584 from the normal group. A modest but significant improvement in the glycemic status of diabetic and prediabetic participants was observed, but not in the normal group. In the diabetes group, 11 (55%) participants achieved normal HbA1c levels, 5 had prediabetes levels, and only 4 remained within diabetes HbA1c levels. In the prediabetes group, 34 (87.2%) participants achieved normal HbA1c levels, while 2 (5.1%) participants remained prediabetic and 3 (7.7%) had diabetes HbA1c levels (p < 0.001). This hybrid lifestyle intervention program modestly reduces the risk of T2DM among youth with elevated HbA1c levels. The challenge of sustaining interest in adopting lifestyle changes for a longer duration should be addressed in further studies in this population.

Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among Korean Children, Adolescents, and Adults Younger than 30 Years: Changes from 2002 to 2016

BACKGROUND

Despite the importance of and social concern regarding prevention of diabetes at younger ages, limited data are available. This study sought to analyze changes in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Koreans younger than 30 years according to sex, age, and level of income.

METHODS

The dataset analyzed in this study was derived from health insurance claims recorded in the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database. Participants' level of income was categorized as low (quintile 1, <20% of insurance premium) or others (quintile 2-5).

RESULTS

In males and females, the prevalence of T2DM per 10,000 people steadily increased from 2.57 in 2002 to 11.41 in 2016, and from 1.96 in 2002 to 8.63 in 2016. The prevalence of T2DM in girls was higher in the age group of 5 to 14 years. Even though the prevalence was higher among those older than 20 years, the increase had started earlier, in the early 2000s, in younger age group. Adolescents aged 10 to 19 years in low-income families showed a remarkable increase in prevalence of T2DM, especially in boys.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of T2DM in young Koreans increased more than 4.4-fold from 2002 to 2016, and the increase started in the early 2000s in younger age groups and in low-income families. This is the first study to examine the trend in prevalence of T2DM in children, adolescents, and young adults in Korea. Future studies and collaborations with social support systems to prevent T2DM at an early age group should be performed.

Play, art, music and exercise therapy impact on children with diabetes

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global public health issue. Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is the predominant diabetes type in children and always requires insulin therapy. The incidence rate of newly diagnosed T1D in children continues to increase in Ireland Roche et al. (Eur J Pediatr 175(12):1913-1919, 2016) and worldwide Patterson et al. (Diabetologia 62(3):408-417, 2019). The objective of this study was to conduct a literature review of the effects of various non-pharmacological therapeutic modalities on the control of diabetes in children. A literature review was performed using PubMed, Medline, Embase and Cochrane library to evaluate play, art, music and exercise therapy in the treatment of DM using the keywords: "paediatric", "diabetes", "play therapy", "art therapy", "music therapy" and "exercise therapy". These search terms initially returned 270 cases, which resulted in a total of 11 papers being reviewed after eliminating duplicate or irrelevant papers. Literature review showed that all therapies have a positive impact on the child, but there is limited research looking at the impact of therapy on quantitative measures such as HbA1c or 'time in range'.

Relationship Between Diabetes-Related Complications and Sleep Complaints in Older Mexican Americans

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is increasing in the older American population, especially Mexican Americans. Sleep disorders are common in older adults with T2DM. This study examined the relationship between T2DM-related complications and sleep complaints in older Mexican Americans over 9 years of follow-up.

METHODS

Study included 310 participants aged 77 years or older with self-reported diabetes from the Hispanic Established Population for the Epidemiological Study of the Elderly (2007/08-2016).

RESULTS

Of the 310 participants, the mean age was 82.04 years. The cohort had significantly more females (69.03%) than males (30.97%). A substantial number of participants had trouble falling asleep (16.13%), waking up several times (36.45%), trouble staying asleep (15.16%), and feeling tired and worn out after waking up (12.90%). The percent of diabetes complications were 70.2% for circulation problems, 58.2% for eye disorders, 15.9% for kidney disease, and 4.4% for amputation. Participants who experienced sleep complaints for 15 or more days in a month were more likely to experience diabetic complications.

DISCUSSION

This study demonstrated a significant relationship between T2DM macro- and micro-vascular complications and increased risk of sleep disorders in older Mexican Americans.

Diabetes, Drug Treatment, and Mortality in COVID-19: A Multinational Retrospective Cohort Study

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are at increased risk of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outcomes possibly because of dysregulated inflammatory responses. Glucose-regulating medications, such as glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists, dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, and pioglitazone, are known to have anti-inflammatory effects that may improve outcomes in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. In a multinational retrospective cohort study, we used the TriNetX COVID-19 Research Network of 56 large health care organizations to examine these medications in relation to the incidence of hospital admissions, respiratory complications, and mortality within 28 days after a COVID-19 diagnosis. After matching for age, sex, race, ethnicity, BMI, and significant comorbidities, use of GLP-1R agonists and/or pioglitazone was associated with significant reductions in hospital admissions (GLP-1R: 15.7% vs. 23.5%, risk ratio [RR] 0.67 [95% CI 0.57-0.79; P < 0.001]; pioglitazone: 20.0% vs. 28.2%; RR 0.71 [95% CI 0.54-0.93; P = 0.01]). Use of GLP-1R agonists was also associated with reductions in respiratory complications (15.3% vs. 24.9%, RR 0.62 [95% CI 0.52-0.73]; P < 0.001) and incidence of mortality (1.9% vs. 3.3%, RR 0.58 [95% CI 0.35-0.97]; P = 0.04). Use of DPP-4 inhibitors was associated with a reduction in respiratory complications (24.0% vs. 29.2%, RR 0.82 [95% CI 0.74-0.90]; P < 0.001), and continued use of DPP-4 inhibitors after hospitalization was associated with a decrease in mortality compared with those who discontinued use (9% vs. 19%, RR 0.45 [95% CI 0.28-0.72]; P < 0.001). In conclusion, use of glucose-regulating medications, such as GLP-1R agonists, DPP-4 inhibitors, or pioglitazone, may improve COVID-19 outcomes for patients with T2DM; randomized clinical trials are needed to further investigate this possibility.

Combination of disease duration-to-age at diagnosis and hemoglobin A1c-to-serum C-peptide reactivity ratios predicts patient response to glucose-lowering medication in type 2 diabetes: A retrospective cohort study across Japan (JDDM59)

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

Knowing the collective clinical factors that determine patient response to glucose-lowering medication would be beneficial in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. We carried out a retrospective cohort study to explore the combination of clinical factors involved in its therapeutic efficacy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The results of cohort studies retrieved using the CoDiC® database across Japan from January 2005 to July 2018 were analyzed based on criterion that using insulin therapy indicates severe type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

A logistic regression analysis showed that age at diagnosis, disease duration, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and serum C-peptide reactivity (CPR) at medication commencement were associated with the probability of insulin treatment. Receiver operating characteristic curve showed that these clinical factors predicted insulin treatment positivity with an area under the curve of >0.600. The area under the curve increased to 0.674 and 0.720 for the disease duration-to-age at diagnosis ratio and HbA1c-to-CPR ratio, respectively. Furthermore, area under the curve increased to 0.727 and 0.750 in the indices (duration-to-age ratio at diagnosis × 43 + HbA1c) and (duration-to-age ration at diagnosis × 21 + HbA1c-to-CPR ratio), respectively. After stratification to three groups according to the indices, monthly HbA1c levels during 6 months of treatment were higher in the upper one-third than in the lower one-third of patients, and many patients did not achieve the target HbA1c level (53 mmol/mol) in the upper one-third, although greater than fourfold more patients were administered insulin in the upper one-third.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of disease duration-to-age at diagnosis and HbA1c-to-CPR ratios is a collective risk factor that predicts response to the medications.

Exploring the impact of online graphic narratives in consumer health promotion: A type 2 diabetes study

This research explores the use of online graphic narratives (a.k.a. comics) in consumer health promotion. More specifically, the study evaluates the persuasive power of online graphic narratives to communicate type 2 diabetes information, relative to other traditional health communication media such as videos and blogs. A framework including four variables related to narrative processing - narrative transportation, affective response, narrative comprehension, and message comprehension - is proposed. This model compares the effects of the three online media - graphic narrative, video and blog- on consumer persuasion. Overall, the study demonstrates that graphic narratives are more persuasive for health promotion than videos and blogs.

Diabetes duration and glycaemic control as predictors of cardiovascular disease and mortality

AIMS

To assess the associations of diabetes duration and glycaemic control (defined by plasma glycated haemoglobin [HbA1c] level) with the risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all-cause mortality and to determine whether the addition of either or both to the established CVD risk factors can improve predictions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 435 679 participants from the UK Biobank without CVD at baseline were included. Cox models adjusting for classic risk factors (sociodemographic and anthropometric characteristics, lipid profiles and medication use) were used, and predictive utility was determined by the C-index and net reclassification improvement (NRI).

RESULTS

Compared with participants without diabetes, participants with longer diabetes durations and poorer glycaemic control had a higher risk of fatal/nonfatal CVD. Among participants with diabetes, the fully-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for diabetes durations of 5 to <10 years, 10 to <15 years and ≥15 years were 1.15 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.99, 1.34), 1.50 (95% CI 1.26, 1.79) and 2.22 (95% CI 1.90, 2.58; P-trend <0.01), respectively, compared with participants with diabetes durations <5 years. In addition, those with the longest disease duration (≥15 years) and poorer glycaemic control (HbA1c ≥64 mmol/mol [8%]) had the highest risk of fatal/nonfatal CVD (HR 3.12, 95% CI 2.52, 3.86). Among participants with diabetes, the addition of both diabetes duration and glycaemic control levels significantly improved both the C-index (change in C-index +0.0254; 95% CI 0.0111, 0.0398) and the overall NRI for fatal/nonfatal CVD (0.0992; 95% CI 0.0085, 0.1755) beyond the use of the classic risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Both longer diabetes duration and poorer glycaemic control were associated with elevated risks of CVD and mortality. Clinicians should consider not only glycaemic control but also diabetes duration in CVD risk assessments for participants with diabetes.

Repetitiveness of the oral glucose tolerance test in children and adolescents

BACKGROUND

Data regarding the most suitable diagnostic method for the diagnosis of glucose impairment in asymptomatic children and adolescents are inconclusive. Furthermore, limited data are available on the reproducibility of the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in children and adolescents who are obese (OB).

AIM

To investigate the usefulness of the OGTT as a screening method for glucose dysregulation in children and adolescents.

METHODS

Eighty-one children and adolescents, 41 females, either overweight (OW), OB or normal weight (NW) but with a strong positive family history of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), were enrolled in the present observational study from the Outpatient Clinic of Paediatric Endocrinology of the University Hospital of Patras in Greece. One or two 3-h OGTTs were performed and glucose, insulin and C-peptide concentrations were measured at several time points (t = 0 min, t = 15 min, t = 30 min, t = 60 min, t = 90 min, t = 120 min, t = 180 min).

RESULTS

Good repetitiveness was observed in the OGTT response with regard to T2DM, while low repetitiveness was noted in the OGTT response with regard to impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and no repetitiveness with regard to impaired fasting glucose (IFG). In addition, no concordance was observed between IFG and IGT. During the 1^st and 2^nd OGTTs, no significant difference was found in the glucose concentrations between NW, OW and OB patients, whereas insulin and C-peptide concentrations were higher in OW and OB compared to NW patients at several time points during the OGTTs. Also, OW and OB patients showed a worsening insulin and C-peptide response during the 2^nd OGTT as compared to the 1^st OGTT.

CONCLUSION

In mild or moderate disorders of glucose metabolism, such as IFG and IGT, a diagnosis may not be reached using only one OGTT, and a second test or additional investigations may be needed. When glucose metabolism is profoundly impaired, as in T2DM, one OGTT is probably more reliable and adequate for establishing the diagnosis. Excessive weight and/or a positive family history of T2DM possibly affect the insulin and C-peptide response in the OGTT from a young age.

Inherited retinal diseases are the most common cause of blindness in the working-age population in Australia

Background: This study examined the frequency of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) as the reason for blindness registrations over the last two decades and the demographic and clinical phenotypes of inherited retinal disease (IRD)-related registrations.

Materials and methods: Retrospective, observational study of individuals registered with a state-wide blind and vision-impaired registry. Low-vision or blindness-only (≤20/200 or ≤20°) certificates issued to children (0-15 years), working-age (16-64 years) and older-age (65 and older) adults were assessed. Sex and age distributions were examined for the top 20 reasons for certification. Demographic and clinical features of specific phenotypes of IRDs listed in the registry were examined.

Results: Amongst 11824 low-vision certificates issued between July 1995 and January 2017, 679 (5.7%) listed an IRD as the reason for registration. In individuals with blindness-only certification (N=4919), IRDs was the second most common diagnosis (8.3%), overtaking glaucoma (8.1%) and diabetic retinopathy (5.4%). IRD was the second most common reason for low-vision certification amongst children (11.6%) and the most common reason amongst working-age population (23.3%). The mean±SD age for IRD-related blindness-only certification was 46±20 years. The top three phenotypes of IRD-related low-vision certification were non-syndromic retinitis pigmentosa (54%), Stargardt disease (12%) and macular dystrophy (8%).

Conclusion: Our findings of IRDs as a common cause of blindness in all ages justify continued funding for providing low-vision services and developing treatments for these conditions.

The Combined Effect of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation and Insulin Therapy on Glycated Hemoglobin Concentrations, Lipid Profiles and Hemodynamic Parameters in Patients with Type-2-Diabetes and Hemiplegia Related to Ischemic Stroke: A Pilot Study

Type-2-diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global problem of medical, social and economic consequences. Physical activity is a vital therapy in patients with T2DM, but some of them cannot exercise for various reasons. The purpose of our pilot study was to determine whether a combination of neuromuscular electrostimulation (NMES) and insulin therapy could improve the management of T2DM patients with hemiplegia caused by an ischemic stroke. Fifteen immobile patients with T2DM on insulin therapy were enrolled in the study. NMES was applied to their lower limbs for 60 min, 5 days a week, over a period of 12 weeks. The intervention caused statistically significant reductions in the blood concentrations of glycated hemoglobin, total cholesterol and low-density cholesterol in the participants. Furthermore, systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels were significantly lower. More randomized clinical trials are needed to accurately measure the effect of NMES on T2DM treatment and to determine whether it can be an alternative for physical activity for immobile patients with T2DM.

Physical Activity of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients and Non-Diabetes Participants in Yangon, Myanmar: A Case-Control Study Applying the International Physical Activity Questionnaires (IPAQ-S)

BACKGROUND

Despite the evidence that physical activity (PA) can prevent type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), limited research investigated the level of PA among diabetes and non-diabetes in Myanmar, where there is the escalating prevalence of diabetes recently. We investigated PA as modified the risk of diabetes, in a case-control study.

METHODS

We conducted a case-control study which included 150 cases and 150 controls age 25-74 years (Mean age 43.3±14.7 years) among the cases and (55.1±10.9 years) among the controls, both sex and residence in Yangon. Cases were newly diagnosed with T2DM within six months before data collection, with laboratory-confirmed fasting blood glucose level ≥126mg/dl. Controls were community residents, without diabetes, confirmed with a laboratory test. The IPAQ-S was used to assess the PA level. Multiple logistic regression analysis was applied in STATA 15, using the interaction terms for age and PA, adjusting age, sex and BMI.

RESULTS

In comparison to controls, cases were older and having less PA knowledge. The levels of vigorous PA were mean 254.9±standard deviations (SD) 845.6 METs^min.wk-1 among controls, 73.06±392.1 cases, moderate PA 631.5±1240.8 METs^min.wk-1 among controls and 1050.9±1601.6 cases and walking PA 569.8±1060 METs^min.wk-1 among controls and 777.4±1249 cases, respectively. The multiple logistic regression analysis showed adjusted odds ratios (aOR) 3.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.18-12.42 (P<0.05) for those aged 40 and older, with moderate PA and aOR 18.01, Cl 6.45-50.26 (P<0.001) for those aged 40 and older, with low PA. Comparing the strength of association, the risk of T2DM among people aged 40 and older with moderate PA is lower than age over 40 with low PA.

CONCLUSION

PA lessened the risk of T2DM, posted by increasing age. The findings highlighted the importance of promoting PA to reduce the T2DM prevalence in the context of Yangon, Myanmar, a low- and middle-income Asian country.

Protein Glycosylation in Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by the presence of hyperglycaemia. Due to its high prevalence and substantial heterogeneity, many studies have been investigating markers that could identify predisposition for the disease development, differentiate between the various subtypes, establish early diagnosis, predict complications or represent novel therapeutic targets. N-glycans, complex oligosaccharide molecules covalently linked to proteins, emerged as potential markers and functional effectors of various diabetes subtypes, appearing to have the capacity to meet these requirements. For instance, it has been shown that N-glycome changes in patients with type 2 diabetes and that N-glycans can even identify individuals with an increased risk for its development. Moreover, genome-wide association studies identified glycosyltransferase genes as candidate causal genes for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. N-glycans have also been suggested to have a major role in preventing the impairment of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by modulating cell surface expression of glucose transporters. In this chapter we aimed to describe four major diabetes subtypes: type 1, type 2, gestational and monogenic diabetes, giving an overview of suggested role for N-glycosylation in their development, diagnosis and management.

Impact of Genetic Factors on the Age of Onset for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Addition to the Conventional Risk Factors

It is generally accepted that the early detection of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is important to prevent the development of complications and comorbidities, as well as premature death. The onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus results from a complex interplay between genetic, environmental, and lifestyle risk factors. Our study aims to evaluate the joint effect of T2DM associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on the age of onset for T2DM in combination with conventional risk factors (such as sex, body mass index (BMI), and TG/HDL-C ratio) in the Hungarian population. This study includes 881 T2DM patients (Case population) and 1415 samples from the Hungarian general population (HG). Twenty-three SNPs were tested on how they are associated with the age of onset for T2DM in the Case population and 12 of them with a certified effect on the age of T2DM onset were chosen for an optimized genetic risk score (GRS) analysis. Testing the validity of the GRS model developed was carried out on the HG population. The GRS showed a significant association with the age of onset for T2DM (β = -0.454, p = 0.001) in the Case population, as well as among T2DM patients in the HG one (β = -0.999, p = 0.003) in the replication study. The higher the GRS, the earlier was the T2DM onset. Individuals with more than eight risk alleles will presumably be diabetic six and a half years earlier than those with less than four risk alleles. Our results suggest that there is a considerable genetic predisposition for the early onset of T2DM; therefore, in addition to conventional risk factors, GRS can be used as a tool for estimating the risk of the earlier onset of T2DM and stratifying populations at risk in order to define preventive interventions.

Coronary artery calcification, carotid intima-media thickness and cardiac dysfunction in young adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIMS

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the major causes of mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). There is paucity of information on prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis and cardiac dysfunction in young adults with T2DM. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis and cardiac dysfunction in young adults with T2DM, asymptomatic for CVD.

METHODS

Sixty-two patients with T2DM, age between 30 and 50 years were evaluated for coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) at the brachial artery. All were subjected to 2D-color Doppler echocardiography, electrocardiography and testing for serum N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP). The results were compared with those in 60 age, sex and BMI-matched healthy controls.

RESULTS

Prevalence of a positive CAC score was comparable among subjects with and without T2DM (14.5% vs 11.7%). Patients with T2DM had a significantly higher CIMT (0.54 ± 0.15 vs 0.49 ± 0.10 mm, p = 0.01), left ventricular (LV) mass (170 ± 36 vs 147 ± 23 g, p < 0.001), heart rate (83 ± 13 vs 74 ± 11, p < 0.001) and QTc interval (402 ± 20 vs 382 ± 21 ms, p < 0.001) compared to controls. FMD was lower in patients with T2DM compared to controls (9.1 ± 4.4% vs 10.7 ± 3.9%, p = 0.04). There was a higher prevalence of LV hypertrophy (37% vs 7%, p < 0.001) and diastolic dysfunction (7% vs 0) in patients with T2DM compared to controls. None of the participants had systolic dysfunction. Hypertension (42 vs 7%, p < 0.001) and metabolic syndrome (76 vs 35%, p < 0.001) were more prevalent in the patient group. In the multivariate analysis, age was the lone predictor of CIMT and FMD; while T2DM and male gender were the independent predictors of LV mass.

CONCLUSIONS

Young adults with T2DM, asymptomatic for CVD had a higher prevalence of CVD risk factors, LV hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction. A higher CIMT and LV mass, and a lower FMD were noted in patients with T2DM. CAC score was comparable between the groups and thus may not be a useful tool for assessment of subclinical atherosclerosis in this cohort, where CIMT and FMD may be more appropriate.

Genetic predisposition in type 2 diabetes: A promising approach toward a personalized management of diabetes

Diabetes mellitus, also known simply as diabetes, has been described as a chronic and complex endocrine metabolic disorder that is a leading cause of death across the globe. It is considered a key public health problem worldwide and one of four important non-communicable diseases prioritized for intervention through world health campaigns by various international foundations. Among its four categories, Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is the commonest form of diabetes accounting for over 90% of worldwide cases. Unlike monogenic inherited disorders that are passed on in a simple pattern, T2D is a multifactorial disease with a complex etiology, where a mixture of genetic and environmental factors are strong candidates for the development of the clinical condition and pathology. The genetic factors are believed to be key predisposing determinants in individual susceptibility to T2D. Therefore, identifying the predisposing genetic variants could be a crucial step in T2D management as it may ameliorate the clinical condition and preclude complications. Through an understanding the unique genetic and environmental factors that influence the development of this chronic disease individuals can benefit from personalized approaches to treatment. We searched the literature published in three electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus and ISI Web of Science for the current status of T2D and its associated genetic risk variants and discus promising approaches toward a personalized management of this chronic, non-communicable disorder.

Novel Insights into the Pathogenesis and Management of the Metabolic Syndrome

The metabolic syndrome, by definition, is not a disease but is a clustering of individual metabolic risk factors including abdominal obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypertension, and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. These risk factors could dramatically increase the prevalence of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The reported prevalence of the metabolic syndrome varies, greatly depending on the definition used, gender, age, socioeconomic status, and the ethnic background of study cohorts. Clinical and epidemiological studies have clearly demonstrated that the metabolic syndrome starts with central obesity. Because the prevalence of obesity has doubly increased worldwide over the past 30 years, the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome has markedly boosted in parallel. Therefore, obesity has been recognized as the leading cause for the metabolic syndrome since it is strongly associated with all metabolic risk factors. High prevalence of the metabolic syndrome is not unique to the USA and Europe and it is also increasing in most Asian countries. Insulin resistance has elucidated most, if not all, of the pathophysiology of the metabolic syndrome because it contributes to hyperglycemia. Furthermore, a major contributor to the development of insulin resistance is an overabundance of circulating fatty acids. Plasma fatty acids are derived mainly from the triglycerides stored in adipose tissues, which are released through the action of the cyclic AMP-dependent enzyme, hormone sensitive lipase. This review summarizes the latest concepts in the definition, pathogenesis, pathophysiology, and diagnosis of the metabolic syndrome, as well as its preventive measures and therapeutic strategies in children and adolescents.

Age at Diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Associations With Cardiovascular and Mortality Risks

BACKGROUND

Risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality for patients with versus without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) appears to vary by the age at T2DM diagnosis, but few population studies have analyzed mortality and CVD outcomes associations across the full age range.

METHODS

With use of the Swedish National Diabetes Registry, everyone with T2DM registered in the Registry between 1998 and 2012 was included. Controls were randomly selected from the general population matched for age, sex, and county. The analysis cohort comprised 318 083 patients with T2DM matched with just <1.6 million controls. Participants were followed from 1998 to 2013 for CVD outcomes and to 2014 for mortality. Outcomes of interest were total mortality, cardiovascular mortality, noncardiovascular mortality, coronary heart disease, acute myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. We also examined life expectancy by age at diagnosis. We conducted the primary analyses using Cox proportional hazards models in those with no previous CVD and repeated the work in the entire cohort.

RESULTS

Over a median follow-up period of 5.63 years, patients with T2DM diagnosed at ≤40 years had the highest excess risk for most outcomes relative to controls with adjusted hazard ratio (95% CI) of 2.05 (1.81-2.33) for total mortality, 2.72 (2.13-3.48) for cardiovascular-related mortality, 1.95 (1.68-2.25) for noncardiovascular mortality, 4.77 (3.86-5.89) for heart failure, and 4.33 (3.82-4.91) for coronary heart disease. All risks attenuated progressively with each increasing decade at diagnostic age; by the time T2DM was diagnosed at >80 years, the adjusted hazard ratios for CVD and non-CVD mortality were <1, with excess risks for other CVD outcomes substantially attenuated. Moreover, survival in those diagnosed beyond 80 was the same as controls, whereas it was more than a decade less when T2DM was diagnosed in adolescence. Finally, hazard ratios for most outcomes were numerically greater in younger women with T2DM.

CONCLUSIONS

Age at diagnosis of T2DM is prognostically important for survival and cardiovascular risks, with implications for determining the timing and intensity of risk factor interventions for clinical decision making and for guideline-directed care. These observations amplify support for preventing/delaying T2DM onset in younger individuals.

Burden of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in Canada, 2019-2030: a modelling study

BACKGROUND

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) account for a growing proportion of liver disease cases, and there is a need to better understand future disease burden. We used a modelling framework to forecast the burden of disease of NAFLD and NASH for Canada.

METHODS

We used a Markov model to forecast fibrosis progression from stage F0 (no fibrosis) to stage F4 (compensated cirrhosis) and subsequent progression to decompensated cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver transplantation and liver-related death among Canadians with NAFLD from 2019 to 2030. We used historical trends for obesity prevalence among adults to estimate longitudinal changes in the number of incident NAFLD cases.

RESULTS

The model projected that the number of NAFLD cases would increase by 20% between 2019 and 2030, from an estimated 7 757 000 cases to 9 305 000 cases. Increases in advanced fibrosis cases were relatively greater, as the number of model-estimated prevalent stage F3 cases would increase by 65%, to 357 000, and that of prevalent stage F4 cases would increase by 95%, to 195 000. Estimated incident cases of hepatocellular carcinoma and decompensated cirrhosis would increase by up to 95%, and the number of annual NAFLD-related deaths would double, to 5600.

INTERPRETATION

Increasing rates of obesity translate into increasing NAFLD-related cases of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma and related mortality. Prevention efforts should be aimed at reducing the incidence of NAFLD and slowing fibrosis progression among those already affected.

Modelling NAFLD disease burden in four Asian regions-2019-2030

BACKGROUND

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) account for an increasing proportion of liver disease in the Asia-Pacific region. Many areas in the region are experiencing epidemics of metabolic syndrome among rapidly ageing populations.

AIMS

To estimate using modelling the growth in NAFLD populations, including cases with significant fibrosis that are most likely to experience advanced liver disease and related mortality.

METHODS

A disease progression model was used to summarise and project fibrosis progression among the NAFLD populations of Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan. For each area, changes in the adult prevalence of obesity was used to extrapolate long-term trends in NAFLD incidence.

RESULTS

In the areas studied, prevalent NAFLD cases were projected to increase 6%-20% during 2019-2030, while prevalent NASH cases increase 20%-35%. Incident cases of hepatocellular carcinoma are projected to increase by 65%-85%, while incident decompensated cirrhosis cases increase 65%-100% by 2030. Likewise, NAFLD-related mortality is projected to increase between 65% and 100% from 2019 to 2030. NAFLD disease burden is expected to increase alongside rising trends in metabolic syndrome and obesity among populations in the region. This leads to more cases of advanced liver disease and associated mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Preventing the growth of diabetic and obese populations will be a key factor in reducing ongoing increases in NAFLD-related disease burden in the Asia-Pacific region.

Heterogeneity in the aetiology of diabetes mellitus in young adults: A prospective study from north India

Background & objectives:

In contrast to Caucasians of European origin, the aetiology of diabetes mellitus (DM) in young adults in other ethnic groups, including Indians is likely to be heterogeneous and difficult to determine. This study was undertaken to determine the aetiology of diabetes in young Indian adults using a protocol-based set of simple clinical and investigation tools.

Methods:

In this prospective study, 105 Indian young adults with diabetes (age at onset 18-35 yr; duration <2 yr) were studied for a period of 1-3 years. Pancreatic imaging, fasting C-peptide, islet antibodies (against glutamic acid decarboxylase, tyrosine phosphatase and zinc transporter-8) and mitochondrial A3243G mutational analysis were performed in all patients. Four patients were screened for maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) using next-generation sequencing.

Results:

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T1DM and T2DM) were equally frequent (40% each), followed by fibrocalculous pancreatic diabetes (FCPD, 15%). Less common aetiologies included MODY (2%), mitochondrial diabetes (1%) and Flatbush diabetes (2%). There was considerable phenotypic overlap between the main aetiological subtypes. Elevated islet antibodies were noted in 62 per cent of T1DM patients [positive predictive value (PPV) 84%; negative predictive value (NPV) 78%] while low plasma C-peptide (<250 pmol/l) was present in 56 per cent of T1DM patients [PPV 96% (after excluding FCPD), NPV 72%]. Using these tests and observing the clinical course over one year, a final diagnosis was made in 103 (99%) patients, while the diagnosis at recruitment changed in 23 per cent of patients.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The aetiology of diabetes in young adults was heterogeneous, with T1DM and T2DM being equally common. FCPD was also frequent, warranting its screening in Indian patients. Testing for islet antibodies and C-peptide in this age group had good PPV for diagnosis of T1DM.

Distribution of glycated haemoglobin and its determinants in Indian young adults

AIM

The aim of the present study is to understand the distribution of A1c in four different age groups in young adults and its relation to other co-variants.

METHODS

The countrywide data was collected in 2017 in Individuals with high risk analysed by Indian Diabetes Risk Score (IDRS) and self-declared diabetics were identified after screening a sample of 240,968 individuals from rural (4 villages of about 500 adults each) and urban (4 census enumeration blocks of about 500 adults each) population spanning 65 districts of 29 states/UTs of Indian subcontinent. Blood tests and other detailed assessments were carried out on this selected group. This study presents the analysis of the A1c values of 2862 young adults (<35 years).

RESULTS

In the age group of 31-34 years, the proportion of Diabetes (22.36%) and Prediabetes (9.86%) was higher in comparison with younger age groups. Also, Diabetes (7.3%) and Prediabetes (22%) were highest among those who had parental history of DM in both parents as compared to those with Diabetes history in one parent [Diabetes (7.1%) or Prediabetes (19.0%)] and no Diabetes Parental History (Diabetes (7.3%) and Prediabetes (18.3%) cases. BMI was found to play a significant positive correlation with Diabetes and Prediabetes (p < 0.001) with range of A1c.

CONCLUSION

Age, BMI and parental history were found to be correlated with A1c levels in IDRS screened high-risk population. With increasing age, the proportion of Diabetics and Prediabetics also increased with positive correlation of age with A1c levels.

Challenges And Factors Associated With Poor Glycemic Control Among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients At Nekemte Referral Hospital, Western Ethiopia

Background

Diabetes is increasing at an alarming rate throughout the world, and ~80% of diabetics live in developing countries. Similar to the rest of sub-Saharan African countries, Ethiopia is experiencing a significant burden of diabetes, with increased prevalence, complications, and mortality, as well as life threatening disabilities. Reasons for poor glycemic control among type 2 diabetes patients are complex and multivariable. Hence, this study aimed to identify challenges and factors associated with poor glycemic control among type 2 diabetes patients.

Method

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among type 2 diabetic patients attending the diabetic clinic of Nekemte Referral Hospital (NRH) from February 1 to April 30, 2018. Fasting blood glucose levels of the last three clinic visits were obtained and the mean fasting blood glucose measurement was used to determine the level of glycemic control. Analysis included both descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS version 20.0. Predictor variable P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Out of the total 228 included type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients, 51.8% were males. The mean age of patients was 43±12.4 years and 154 (67.5%) were found to not be following their general dietary program correctly. Nearly one third, 73 (32%), of patients never attended diabetic education and 52 (22.8%) of the patients had greater than 10 years’ duration on treatment. The majority, 148 (64.9%), of patients had poor blood glucose control. Age 40–60 years (AOR=2.01, 95% CI=0.04–0.06, P=0.044), being illiterate (AOR=3.12, 95% CI=1.52–8.50, P=0.001), having informal education only (AOR=2.28, 95% CI=2.14–32.60, P=0.024), longer duration of diabetes treatment (>10 years) (AOR=3.94, 95% CI=1.51–27.83, P=0.012), inadequate physical exercise (AOR=3.19, 95% CI=1.05–19.84, P=0.019), and smoking (AOR=4.51, 95% CI=0.00–0.50, P=0.022) were independent predictors of poor glycemic control on multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Conclusion

Nearly two-thirds of patients had poorly controlled diabetes. Age, exercise, level of education, duration of the treatment, and smoking were significantly associated with poor glycemic control. Health facilities should provide continuous education, and barriers of glycemic control should be explored with further research.

Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of theophylline containing variant acetylene derivatives as α-amylase inhibitors

A novel pharmacophore with theophylline and acetylene moieties was constructed by using a fragment-based drug design and a series of twenty theophylline containing acetylene conjugates were designed and synthesized, and all the compounds were evaluated by enzyme-based in vitro α-amylase inhibition activity. The in vitro evaluation revealed that most of the compounds displayed good inhibitory activities, and among them nine analogs 13-15, 20, 21 and 24-27 were exhibited more or nearly as equipotent inhibitory activity with IC₅₀ values 1.11 ± 0.07, 1.14 ± 0.17, 1.07 ± 0.01 and 1.21 ± 0.03, 1.33 ± 0.09, 1.17 ± 0.01, 1.05 ± 0.02, 1.61 ± 0.04, 1.02 ± 0.03 μM respectively, as compared with standard, acarbose 1.37 ± 0.26 μM. Further, molecular docking simulation studies were done to identify the interactions and binding mode of synthesized analogs at binding site of α-amylase enzyme (PBD ID: 4GQR). Among the synthesized analogs, two compounds 25 and 27 were selected on the basis of α-amylase inhibition activity and evaluated for in vivo anti-diabetic activity by High Fat Diet-Streptozotocin (HFD-STZ) model in normal rats. At the dose of 10 mg/kg, bw, po these compounds have significantly reduced Plasma Glucose level in rats as compared to pioglitazone. The anti-diabetic activity results showed that the animal treated with the compounds 25 and 27 could better reverse and control the progression of the disease compared to the standard.

Peptides from chicken processing by-product inhibit DPP-IV and promote cellular glucose uptake: potential ingredients for T2D management

Inhibition of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) and stimulation of muscle glucose uptake are two of the key strategies for management of type-2-diabetes (T2D). In the present study, four protein hydrolysates generated by enzymatic hydrolysis of chicken by-product, i.e., mechanical chicken deboning residue, were evaluated for their DPP-IV inhibitory activity as well as their effect on glucose uptake by skeletal muscle cells. The DPP-IV inhibitory assay was performed at two concentrations (1000 μg mL-1 and 10 μg mL-1) for the crude chicken protein hydrolysates. The hydrolysate with the highest DPP-IV inhibition was selected for preparative-scale fractionation using size-exclusion chromatography (SEC). The SEC fractions were tested for DPP-IV inhibitory activity as well as their effect on glucose uptake and metabolic activity of skeletal muscle cells. The muscle cells were treated with the SEC fractions and glucose uptake was measured based on luminescence detection of 2-deoxyglucose-6-phosphate (2DG6P). A fraction with peptides in the lower molecular weight range was shown to promote glucose uptake and to inhibit DPP-IV. Further chromatographic fractionation followed by inhibition assaying of the most potent SEC fraction led to isolation of five refined peptide fractions with more than 80% DPP-IV inhibition, which were subsequently analyzed with LC-HRMS/MS. This led to identification of 14 peptides as potential DPP-IV inhibitors from protein hydrolysates of mechanical chicken deboning residue.

Prevalence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes among US pediatric population in the MarketScan Multi-State Database, 2002 to 2016

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the prevalence of type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among U.S. Medicaid pediatric population aged <18 years 2002 to 2016 by age, sex, and race/ethnicity.

METHODS

Participants aged <18 years old from 2002 to 2016 were identified from the MarketScan Multi-State Medicaid Database. Diabetes was defined as having (a) ≥1 claims for an outpatient or inpatient diabetes diagnosis and ≥2 prescriptions for any anti-diabetes medications or (b) records of ≥2 claims for an outpatient or inpatient diabetes diagnosis that were at least 30 days apart. Annual prevalence of diabetes and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Age-, sex-, and race-stratified prevalence were also assessed.

RESULTS

The annual prevalence of T1DM increased from 1.29 to 2.34/1000 pediatric persons from 2002 to 2016. The prevalence of T2DM rose from 0.70 in 2002 to 2.76/1000 in 2011, but then dropped to 2.12/1000 pediatric persons in 2016 in the Medicaid population. Prevalence of both T1DM and T2DM increased with age. While the prevalence of T1DM was similar in both sexes, and was most prevalent in Whites, prevalence of T2DM was higher in girls and was most prevalent in Blacks.

CONCLUSIONS

While the annual prevalence of T1DM in pediatric persons enrolled in Medicaid increased continuously from 2002 to 2016, the annual prevalence of T2DM increased from 2002 to 2011, with a subsequent decrease in 2016, possibly because of the increase of relatively healthier participants with the expanded eligibility through the ACA between 2011 and 2016.

Premature death and risk of cardiovascular disease in young-onset diabetes: a 23-year follow-up of the Da Qing Diabetes Study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate premature mortality and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Chinese adults with diabetes diagnosed before the age of 45 years.

METHODS

A total of 519 participants with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and 630 with newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus (DM) were recruited in 1986 in the Da Qing Diabetes Study. In 2009, the participants were followed up to assess mortality and CVD events. The subjects were stratified into four subgroups according to age and diabetes status: age <45 years with NGT (NGT_<45y), age <45 years with DM (DM_<45y), age ≥45 years with NGT (NGT_≥45y), and age ≥45 years with DM (DM_≥45y). The risk of death and CVD events in patients with young-onset DM and elder subjects with NGT were compared to show the extent of premature death and CVD in the DM participants.

RESULTS

During the 23-year follow-up, 26 (10.40%) participants in NGT_<45y, 72 (34.12%) in DM_<45y, 74 (30.58%) in NGT_≥45y, and 266 (68.73%) in DM_≥45y died, including 13 (5.20%), 36 (17.06%), 24 (9.92%), and 128 (33.07%) death attributed to CVD. The corresponding rates of CVD events were 56 (22.40%), 90 (42.65%), 89 (36.78), and 213 (55.04%). It also showed that the risk of all-cause death (HR 1.23, 95% CI 0.88-1.71) or CVD events (HR 1.25, 95% CI 0.93-1.69) did not differ significantly between the DM_<45y and NGT_≥45y groups after adjusting for sex, smoking, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and previous history of CVD. Of note, participants in the DM_<45y group had an higher risk of CVD mortality compared with that in the NGT_≥45y group (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.04-2.98), although the mean age in the former group was 12 years lesser than that in the latter group (39.01 ± 5.00 vs 51.45 ± 5.14).

CONCLUSIONS

Young-onset diabetes is a risk factor for the premature death and cardiovascular disease. Early prevention and intensive treatment are warrented in patients with young-onset diabetes.

Hypertension in pregnancy: Pathophysiology and treatment

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, an umbrella term that includes preexisting and gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and eclampsia, complicate up to 10% of pregnancies and represent a significant cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Despite the differences in guidelines, there appears to be consensus that severe hypertension and non-severe hypertension with evidence of end-organ damage need to be controlled; yet the ideal target ranges below 160/110 mmHg remain a source of debate. This review outlines the definition, pathophysiology, goals of therapy, and treatment agents used in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

Improving the school experience of children with diabetes: Evaluation of the KiDS project

BACKGROUND

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) launched the Kids and Diabetes in School (KiDS) project in collaboration with the International Society for Paediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD) and Sanofi Diabetes to inform and teach school staff, children and parents on the management of diabetes in school. Brazil and India were chosen as pilot countries.

METHODS

The evaluation was conducted using a qualitative methodology using semi-structured face to face in-depth interviews. Five out of fifteen schools were selected, where teachers and parents of children with and without diabetes were interviewed. Interviews took place one and three months after the implementation of KiDS.

FINDINGS

Diabetes knowledge among the school staff and parents of children without diabetes was very limited prior to the KiDS Project in both countries. After introducing the KiDS information pack both groups mentioned increased knowledge on the management of diabetes. This was reflected through healthier food choices at school and the encouragement of physical activities. Increased awareness and understanding in the school staff were observed by parents of children with diabetes.

INTERPRETATION

The KiDS project received positive feedback on the educational materials. The pack was deemed informative, interesting and engaging, creating increased awareness and understanding among school staff, parents and children. The project has created a demand for diabetes intervention in schools. The pack has been translated into fourteen languages and was downloaded over 17,000 times by November 2018.