ISPAD Clinical Practice Consensus Guidelines 2018: Definition, epidemiology, and classification of diabetes in children and adolescents

Does HLA explain the high incidence of childhood-onset type 1 diabetes in the Canary Islands? The role of Asp57 DQB1 molecules

The Canary Islands inhabitants, a recently admixed population with significant North African genetic influence, has the highest incidence of childhood-onset type 1 diabetes (T1D) in Spain and one of the highest in Europe. HLA accounts for half of the genetic risk of T1D.

AIMS

To characterize the classical HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1 alleles in children from Gran Canaria with and without T1D.

METHODS

We analyzed classic HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1 alleles in childhood-onset T1D patients (n = 309) and control children without T1D (n = 222) from the island of Gran Canaria. We also analyzed the presence or absence of aspartic acid at position 57 in the HLA-DQB1 gene and arginine at position 52 in the HLA-DQA1 gene. Genotyping of classical HLA-DQB1 and HLA-DRB1 alleles was performed at two-digit resolution using Luminex technology. The chi-square test (or Fisher's exact test) and odds ratio (OR) were computed to assess differences in allele and genotype frequencies between patients and controls. Logistic regression analysis was also used.

RESULTS

Mean age at diagnosis of T1D was 7.4 ± 3.6 years (46% female). Mean age of the controls was 7.6 ± 1.1 years (55% female). DRB1*03 (OR = 4.2; p = 2.13-13), DRB1*04 (OR = 6.6; p ≤ 2.00-16), DRB1* 07 (OR = 0.37; p = 9.73-06), DRB1*11 (OR = 0.17; p = 6.72-09), DRB1*12, DRB1*13 (OR = 0.38; p = 1.21-05), DRB1*14 (OR = 0.0; p = 0.0024), DRB1*15 (OR = 0.13; p = 7.78-07) and DRB1*16 (OR = 0.21; p = 0.003) exhibited significant differences in frequency between groups. Among the DQB1* alleles, DQB1*02 (OR: 2.3; p = 5.13-06), DQB1*03 (OR = 1.7; p = 1.89-03), DQB1*05 (OR = 0.64; p = 0.027) and DQB1*06 (OR = 0.19; p = 6.25-14) exhibited significant differences. A total of 58% of the studied HLA-DQB1 genes in our control population lacked aspartic acid at position 57.

CONCLUSIONS

In this population, the overall distributions of the HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1 alleles are similar to those in other European populations. However, the frequency of the non-Asp-57 HLA-DQB1 molecules is greater than that in other populations with a lower incidence of T1D. Based on genetic, historical and epidemiological data, we propose that a common genetic background might help explain the elevated pediatric T1D incidence in the Canary Islands, North-Africa and middle eastern countries.

Plasma proteomics in children with new-onset type 1 diabetes identifies new potential biomarkers of partial remission

Partial remission (PR) occurs in only half of people with new-onset type 1 diabetes (T1D) and corresponds to a transient period characterized by low daily insulin needs, low glycemic fluctuations and increased endogenous insulin secretion. While identification of people with newly-onset T1D and significant residual beta-cell function may foster patient-specific interventions, reliable predictive biomarkers of PR occurrence currently lack. We analyzed the plasma of children with new-onset T1D to identify biomarkers present at diagnosis that predicted PR at 3 months post-diagnosis. We first performed an extensive shotgun proteomic analysis using Liquid Chromatography-Tandem-Mass-Spectrometry (LCMS/MS) on the plasma of 16 children with new-onset T1D and quantified 98 proteins significantly correlating with Insulin-Dose Adjusted glycated hemoglobin A1c score (IDAA1C). We next applied a series of both qualitative and statistical filters and selected protein candidates that were associated to pathophysiological mechanisms related to T1D. Finally, we translationally verified several of the candidates using single-shot targeted proteomic (PRM method) on raw plasma. Taken together, we identified plasma biomarkers present at diagnosis that may predict the occurrence of PR in a single mass-spectrometry run. We believe that the identification of new predictive biomarkers of PR and β-cell function is key to stratify people with new-onset T1D for β-cell preservation therapies.

Development and psychometric evaluation of the type 1 diabetes mellitus self-management scale for parents

BACKGROUND/AIM

Diabetes has become a global epidemic, necessitating effective self-management strategies. This is particularly crucial for parents of children with type 1 diabetes mellitus, as they must make numerous daily decisions and perform complex care activities. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive diabetes self-management scale specifically for parents of children with type 1 diabetes. This scale aims to holistically address behaviors impacting diabetes self-management and to evaluate its psychometric properties.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A methodological, correlational, and cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 190 parents of children with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The scale items were reviewed by five experts to ensure they adequately covered the parents' evaluation of their children's diabetes self-management. Following this, a Turkish language expert assessed the draft scale for language accuracy, comprehensibility, and grammar. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (numbers and percentages), Cronbach's α reliability coefficient, factor analysis, and correlation analysis.

RESULTS

The Cronbach's alpha for the overall scale was 0.893, and the Cronbach's alpha for the subscales was between 0.757 and 0.845. The item-total score correlations ranged between 0.408 and 0.660 (p < .05). The exploratory factor analysis showed that the scale explained 61.427% of the total variance, and the factor loadings of items ranged from 0.574 to 0.859. The confirmatory factor analysis also showed that the factor loadings of the scale items ranged from 0.574 to 0.859.

CONCLUSION

The validity and reliability analyses revealed that the scale is a valid and reliable measurement tool for the Turkish culture.

Trends in the incidence of type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, from 2002 to 2022

AIMS

The objective of this study was to assess overall and segmented trends in the incidence of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in children and adolescents younger than 20 years, from 2002 to 2022.

METHODS

This study used registry data on physician-diagnosed T1DM or T2DM from primary and secondary sources, covering the German federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia with 18 million inhabitants. The ages at T1DM and T2DM onset ranged from 0 to 19 and 10-19 years, respectively. The main outcomes were direct age- and/or sex-standardized incidence rates per 100,000 person-years (PYs) and trends estimated as annual percentage changes (APCs), both with 95 % confidence intervals. The segmented trends for subperiods were based on joinpoint regression models.

RESULTS

From 2002-2022, 17,470 and 819 persons had incident T1DM and T2DM, respectively. The total number of PYs was 73,743,982 for T1DM and 39,210,453 for T2DM, with a mean coverage rate of 98 % for T1DM and 90 % for T2DM. The standardized T1DM incidence increased from 17.6 [16.3;18.9} in 2002 to 33.2 [31.3;35.1] in 2022, with an APC of 2.7 % [2.3 %;3.1 %]. The standardized T2DM incidence increased from 1.3 [0.8;1.7] in 2002 to 2.8 [2.0;3.6] in 2022, with an APC of 6.4 % [4.9 %;8.0 %]. There were four different segmented trends for T1DM and T2DM, with the incidence peaking in 2021 and subsequently declining.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence rates of T1DM and T2DM have increased over the past 20 years, with a wave-like pattern during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Disordered eating behaviors and associated factors in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes

OBJECT

As part of their treatment, patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) have to be very careful with what they eat and with their insulin doses. Therefore, the risk of eating disorders increases in this patient group. In this study, we aimed to determine the disordered eating behaviors of patients with type 1 DM and to evaluate the sociodemographic characteristics, diabetes care behaviors, and quality-of-life scale results that these behaviors may be related to.

METHOD

The sociodemographic characteristics and diabetes treatment data of 191 patients aged 9-18 years with type 1 DM were analyzed. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), the PedsQL 3.0 Diabetes Module, and the Diabetes Eating Problem Survey-Revised (DEPS-R) were applied.

RESULTS

The median DEPS-R score of the patients was 18 (19.00), and 44.5 % had a DEPS-R score above 20. A significant correlation was found between age, duration of diabetes, frequency of blood glucose measurement, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level, body mass index standard deviation score (BMI-SDS), and DEPS-R score. There was no significant difference between girls and boys. Patients with a high DEPS-R score had low scores on the PedsQL and on the PedsQL 3.0 Diabetes Module.

CONCLUSION

The DEPS-R scale is a diabetes-specific, easy-to-use, and effective method for screening patients with type 1 DM for disordered eating behaviors. It can help prevent the progression of disordered eating behaviors to clinical eating disorders in patients with type 1 DM. It would be beneficial to use this scale as a routine screening, especially in clinics where access to a psychologist is not possible.

Clinical features, biomarkers and diabetic ketoacidosis at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes among children and adolescents in Sana'a, Yemen

INTRODUCTION

There is little published information on type 1 diabetes (T1D) in children in Yemen. We aimed to identify the clinical characteristics, biomarkers and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at diagnosis of T1D among children and adolescents in a diabetes centre in Sana'a, Yemen.

METHODS

A total of 485 children and adolescents aged ≤18 years diagnosed with T1D during the period 2010-2020 were included in the study. The variables investigated were demographic and clinical characteristics, biomarkers, subtypes of T1D, and the risk factors for severe DKA at diagnosis.

RESULTS

At diagnosis, children aged <10 years compared with those aged ≥10 years had higher mean plasma glucose (p<0.001) and mean HbA1c (p=0.026), and lower mean C-peptide (pmol/L) (p=0.019), and a higher frequency of DKA at diagnosis than older children (p<0.001). A majority of the study population (383, 79%) presented in DKA . Children aged <10 years presenting with DKA had significantly longer median appraisal interval (p=0.009) and median total diagnosis interval (p=0.025), and significantly lower mean C-peptide (p=0.001) as compared with their peers without DKA. The prevalence of autoantibody-negative 'idiopathic' T1D was 36 (32%) of the total number tested for autoantibody and familial T1D 61 (12.6%) of all the study population.

CONCLUSION

In Yemen children aged <10 years with new-onset T1D frequently faced the challenge of a delay in diagnosis and treatment initiation, with severe hyperglycaemia and a higher risk of DKA at diagnosis.

Influence of disease course and comprehensive management on blood glucose level in children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the status of glycemic control, and assess the effects of the disease course and comprehensive management measures on the blood glucose level in children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study collected the clinical data of type 2 diabetes patients in Beijing Children's Hospital from January 2015 to September 2020. Patients were grouped based on the disease course to compare their glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level, islet β-cell function, insulin resistance and comprehensive management measures.

RESULTS

Of the 170 participants, the median disease course was 2.0 years (interquartile range [IQR] 1.0-4.0 years). The baseline HbA1c was 11.2% (IQR 9.2-12.4%). According to the grouping by the disease course, the median HbA1c was the lowest (5.7% [IQR 5.3-6.1%]) in the half-year course group and the highest in the 4-year course group (9.0 [IQR 6.8%-11.3%]). Compared with the group with a disease duration <2 years, patients in the >4 years group had a lower proportion of patients with HbA1c <7% (29.2% vs 66.2%), a lower homeostasis model assessment of β-cell function, and a lower proportion with a controlled diet, moderate-intensity exercise, regular follow up and no drug treatment. We deemed HbA1c as the dependent variable, and found that disease duration, homeostasis model assessment of β-cell function at follow up, continuous moderate-intensity exercise, regular review and treatment regimen were significant influencing factors for glycemic control.

CONCLUSIONS

Children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes and a prolonged disease course showed poor glycemic control and decreased islet β-cell function. A good lifestyle, especially moderate-intensity exercise, can help such cases better control their blood glucose level.

Evaluation of the systemic-immune inflammation index (SII) and systemic immune-inflammation response index (SIRI) in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus and its relationship with cumulative glycemic exposure

OBJECTIVES

In this study, the systemic proinflammatory status was assessed using the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) and SIRI systemic immune-inflammatory response index (SIRI) in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

METHODS

The study involved 159 patients aged between 6 and 16 years. The SII and SIRI values were calculated based on the complete blood count. Basic blood biochemistry evaluated, and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) was measured and recorded. The cumulative glycemic exposure was calculated by multiplying the value above the normal reference range of the HbA1c value. The sum of all these values obtained from the time of diagnosis to obtain the cumulative glycemic exposure. All findings were compared statistically. All statistically significant parameters were evaluated in the multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The analysis revealed that only cIMT (Exp(B)/OR: 0.769, 95 % CI: 0.694-0.853, p<0.001), high-density lipoprotein (Exp(B)/OR: 3.924, 95 % CI: 2.335-6.596, p<0.001), monocyte count (Exp(B)/OR: 1.650, 95 % CI: 1.257-2.178, p<0.001), hematocrit (Exp(B)/OR: 0.675, 95 % CI: 0.523-0.870, p<0.001), and SIRI (Exp(B)/OR: 1.005, 95 % CI: 1.002-1.008, p<0.001) were significantly associated with T1DM. A statistically significant positive association was found between cumulative glycemic exposure and SIRI only (r=0.213, p=0.032). To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate SII and SIRI in children with type 1 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that SIRI could serve as a potential biomarker for detecting early-onset proatherosclerotic processes in diabetic children. However, further clinical studies are required to confirm this.

Rise in fasting and dynamic glucagon levels in children and adolescents with obesity is moderate in subjects with impaired fasting glucose but accentuated in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance or type 2 diabetes

Background

Fasting levels of glucagon are known to be elevated in youth and adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). Children and adolescents with obesity were previously reported to show increasing fasting and post-glucose-challenge hyperglucagonemia across the spectrum of glucose tolerance, while no data are available in those with impaired fasting glucose (IFG).

Materials and methods

Individuals from the Beta-JUDO study population (Uppsala and Salzburg 2010-2016) (n=101, age 13.3 ± 2.8, m/f =50/51) were included (90 with overweight or obesity, 11 with normal weight). Standardized OGTT were performed and plasma glucose, glucagon and insulin concentrations assessed at baseline, 5, 10, 15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes. Patients were grouped according to their glycemic state in six groups with normal glucose metabolism (NGM) and normal weight (NG-NW), NGM with obesity or overweight (NG-O), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), impaired fasting glucose (IFG), IGT+IFG and T2D, and in two groups with NGM and impaired glucose metabolism (IGM), for statistical analysis.

Results and conclusion

Glucagon concentrations were elevated in young normoglycemic individuals with overweight or obesity (NG-O) compared to normoglycemic individuals with normal weight. Glucagon levels, fasting and dynamic, increased with progressing glycemic deterioration, except in IFG, where levels were comparable to those in NG-O. All glycemic groups showed an overall suppression of glucagon during OGTT. An initial increase of glucagon could be observed in T2D. In T2D, glucagon showed a strong direct linear correlation with plasma glucose levels during OGTT. Glucagon in adolescents, as in adults, may play a role in the disease progression of T2D.

Comparison of the optical coherence tomography-angiography (OCT-A) vascular measurements between molecularly confirmed MODY and age-matched healthy controls

AIMS

Previous structural, vascular density, and perfusion studies have mostly comprised type 1 and type 2 diabetes, even in the absence of retinopathy. The current study aimed to compare macular vessel density (VD) measurements between maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) patients and controls.

METHODS

The macular VD of superficial, deep retina, and choriocapillaris (CC), and central macular thickness (CMT), foveal avascular zone (FAZ), FAZ perimetry, VD of the total retina at 300 µm around the FAZ (FD), and acirculatory index (AI) measurements were taken and analyzed via OCT-A (RTVue XR 100-2 Avanti, AngioVue) and were compared between molecularly confirmed MODY (glucokinase (GCK) variants) patients and healthy controls.

RESULTS

Twenty-five MODY patients and 30 healthy controls were included in the study. The mean plasma hemoglobin A1c level in the MODY group was 6.39 ± 0.38. The mean age was 13.8 ± 2.1 in the MODY group and was 12.6 ± 2.5 years among controls. There was no significant difference in terms of the age, superficial and deep retinal VD, FAZ, FAZ perimetry, CMT, FD, or AI between the groups. Compared to the healthy controls, a slight but significant increase in the CC-VD was detected in the MODY group, but only in the parafoveal and perifoveal regions (p = 0.034, p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

The significant CC-VD increase in the MODY group might be associated with hyperglycemia and/or relatively poor and vulnerable peripheral vascular CC perfusion compared to the central. Previous thickness and VD results of childhood or adolescent diabetes were distributed in a wider range, suggesting that various factors, including some not yet clearly defined, may affect the choroidal vasculature independently of glycemia or as a contributing factor.

Exploring ketoacidosis frequency and risk factors in childhood-onset type 1 diabetes: an 8-year retrospective study (2011-2018) at a tertiary paediatric hospital in Tripoli, Libya

OBJECTIVES

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) stands as a critical, acute complication of type 1 diabetes. Despite its severity, there exists a dearth of data concerning the frequency and prevalence of DKA at the onset of type 1 diabetes in Libyan children. This study aimed to ascertain the frequency of DKA during the initial presentation of type 1 diabetes among children aged 0.5-14 years admitted to Tripoli Children's Hospital between 2011 and 2018.

METHODS

Employing a retrospective approach, the study examined the proportion of children with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes who presented with DKA. Data analysis included estimating DKA frequency concerning age at presentation, sex, and age groups. The comparative analysis involved assessing DKA frequency between 0.5 and <2 and 2-14 years age groups. Logistic regression analysis evaluated the impact of age group, sex, and family history of type 1 diabetes on DKA and severe DKA occurrence.

RESULTS

Among 497 children with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes, 39.2 % presented with DKA, of these 44.5 % had severe DKA. Females exhibited a higher DKA rate than males (OR 1.63, 95 % CI 1.13-2.34, p=0.009). Very young children (0.5 to <2 years) presented with DKA more frequently than those aged 2-14 years (OR 4.73, 95 % CI 2.65-8.47, p<0.001), and they were more likely to present in severe DKA (63.9 vs. 39.1 %, [OR 7.26, 95 % CI 3.65-14.41, p<0.001]).

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of DKA at type 1 diabetes onset among children admitted to Tripoli Children's Hospital is notably high, with nearly half of the DKA episodes categorized as severe. Very young children notably demonstrated a fivefold increase in the likelihood of presenting with DKA.

Prediabetes in children and adolescents: A ticking bomb!

Prediabetes in children and adolescents is on the rise which has drawn significant attention over the past decade. It is an early warning sign of the underlying pathophysiological changes which in due course of time might compound into type II diabetes mellitus. The incidence of prediabetes in adolescents ranges from 4%-23% which is alarmingly high and requires active intervention from the system. We have discussed early identification of high-risk patients, prompt screening and active intervention to manage this growing problem.

Cardiometabolic Risk Assessment in a Cohort of Children and Adolescents Diagnosed with Hyperinsulinemia

BACKGROUND

Individuals with hyperinsulinemia may initially not meet any diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome, though displaying a higher risk of cardiovascular complications combined with obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

AIM

The main objective of our study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of various cardiovascular risk indices in hyperinsulinemic children and adolescents; a secondary objective was to estimate the optimal cut-offs of these indices.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This retrospective single-center study was conducted on 139 patients aged 12.1 ± 2.9 years, managed for hyperinsulinism.

RESULTS

We found statistically significant differences in homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR), triglyceride glucose index (TyG), TyG-body mass index, visceral adiposity index, lipid accumulation product index, fatty liver index, and hepatic steatosis index. At the linear logistic regression assessment, we found that insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1), HOMA-IR, and ALT/AST ratio were independently associated with confirmed hyperinsulinism. At the multivariate analysis, IGF-1 levels over 203 ng/mL and HOMA-IR higher than 6.2 were respectively associated with a 9- and 18-times higher odds ratio for hyperinsulinism. The other investigated parameters were not significantly related to hyperinsulinism, and could not predict either the presence of hyperinsulinemia or a subsequent cardiovascular risk in our patients.

CONCLUSION

Commonly used indices of cardiovascular risk in adults cannot be considered accurate in confirming hyperinsulinism in children, with the exception of HOMA-IR. Further studies are needed to verify the usefulness of specific cardiovascular risk indices in hyperinsulinemic children and adolescents.

Uso de glucómetros durante la prueba de tolerancia oral a la glucosa en niños para el diagnóstico de prediabetes y diabetes. Estudio comparativo

Objetivos

A pesar de que las guías clínicas aún no recomiendan el uso de glucómetros en el lugar de asistencia al paciente (POCT) con fines diagnósticos, la prestación analítica de estos dispositivos ha mejorado significativamente. En este contexto, evaluamos la precisión analítica y la concordancia diagnóstica de los glucómetros POCT durante la prueba de tolerancia oral a la glucosa (PTOG), para el diagnóstico de prediabetes y diabetes en un estudio comparativo.

Métodos

En este estudio prospectivo observacional, fueron reclutados pacientes pediátricos con indicación de PTOG, derivados a la Unidad de Diabetes entre diciembre de 2020 y septiembre de 2021. Durante la prueba funcional, se midió la glucemia en sangre venosa con dos glucómetros POCT (uno con conectividad y otro sin conectividad) y en el laboratorio central.

Resultados

El estudio incluyó 98 pacientes. Observamos una elevada correlación entre los glucómetros y el laboratorio (coeficiente de Pearson=0,912 para el glucómetro sin conectividad y 0,950 para el glucómetro con conectividad). El tiempo de respuesta de la PTOG disminuyó significativamente (mediana glucómetro con conectividad: 2,02 horas [rango intercuartílico: 2,00–2,07], laboratorio: 11,63 horas [6,09–25,80]), con un coste global similar. La concordancia diagnóstica entre el glucómetro con conectividad y el laboratorio fue del 71,1 % (IC 95 % 61,5–79,2). La decisión clínica hubiera sido la misma en el 92,8 % de los casos, aunque no se habría indicado tratamiento en cuatro pacientes (4,1 %).

Conclusiones

Durante las PTOG, los glucómetros POCT muestran una elevada correlación y una concordancia diagnóstica aceptable con el laboratorio, ofreciendo además el glucómetro con conectividad una reducción significativa del tiempo de respuesta, sin incrementar los costes. No obstante, dado que en algún caso podría haber un impacto clínico grave, los glucómetros POCT aún no deben ser utilizados con fines diagnósticos.

Comparison of BMI and HbA1c changes before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in type 1 diabetes: a longitudinal population-based study

Purpose

To compare the changes in body weight and glycemic control before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Methods

In 47,065 individuals with T1D from the German Diabetes Prospective Follow-up Registry (DPV), we compared the adjusted mean changes in BMI-Z-scores and HbA1c as well as the distribution of individual changes between four periods from March 2018 to February 2022, by sex and age group (4- < 11, 11- < 16, 16-50 years).

Results

At population level, the only significant pandemic effects were a slight increase in BMI Z-score in prepubertal children (girls: + 0.03 in the first COVID year vs. before, P < 0.01; boys: + 0.04, P < 0.01) as well as a stabilization of HbA1c in all subgroups or even improvement in women (- 0.08%, P < 0.01). At individual level, however, heterogeneity increased significantly (p < 0.01), especially in children. More prepubertal children gained weight (girls: 45% vs. 35% before COVID; boys: 39% vs. 33%). More pubertal girls lost weight (30% vs. 21%) and fewer gained weight (43% vs. 54%). More children had a decreasing HbA1c (prepubertal group: 29% vs. 22%; pubertal girls: 33% vs. 28%; pubertal boys: 32% vs. 25%) and fewer had increasing values. More women had stable HbA1c and fewer had increasing values (30% vs. 37%). In men, no significant changes were observed.

Conclusion

This real-world analysis shows no detrimental consequences of the two first COVID years on weight and HbA1c in T1D on average, but reveals, beyond the mean trends, a greater variability at the individual level.

Use of point-of-care glucometers during an oral glucose tolerance test in children for prediabetes and diabetes diagnosis: a comparison study

Objectives

Despite clinical guidelines do not recommend the use of point-of-care testing (POCT) glucometers for diagnostic purposes yet, the analytical performance is continuously improving. Thus, we evaluate the technical accuracy and clinical concordance of POCT glucometers during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in children for prediabetes and diabetes diagnosis in a comparison study.

Methods

Pediatric patients with an OGTT indication who attended the Diabetes Unit between December 2020 and September 2021 were recruited for this prospective observational study. During the functional test, glycaemia was immediately measured in venous blood using two glucometers (unconnected and connected) and sent to the central laboratory.

Results

The study included 98 patients. There was a high correlation between the glucometers and the central laboratory (Pearson correlation coefficient=0.912 and 0.950, for unconnected and connected glucometer, respectively). The median OGTT turnaround time (TAT) was significantly decreased (connected glucometer: 2.02 h [interquartile range, 2.00-2.07], central laboratory: 11.63 h [6.09-25.80]), with similar overall cost. The diagnostic concordance between connected glucometer and the central laboratory was 71.1 % (95 % confidence interval (CI) 61.5-79.2). The clinical decision would have been the same in the 92.8 % of the cases, but treatment would have not been indicated in 4 patients (4.1 %).

Conclusions

POCT glucometers have demonstrated a high correlation and an acceptable diagnostic concordance with the central laboratory during an OGTT, as well the connected device offers a significant decrease in TAT, without increasing costs. However, as severe clinical impact could happen, POCT glucometers may not be used for diagnosis yet.

The potential Association of Bisphenol A exposure and type 1 diabetes mellitus among Dakahlia Governorate's children sample, Egypt

Background

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disrupter affecting glucose homeostasis.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate BPA's relationship with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) in Dakahlia Governorate's children, in Egypt.

Subjects materials and methods

The study had two parts: clinical and experimental. Clinical Study was conducted on 200 children, equally divided into control and T1DM groups. They underwent: demographic data, height, weight, body mass index, glycosylated HbA1C, random blood glucose, and urinary BPA measurements. Experimental Study was conducted on 60 adult albino rats. Rats were randomly divided into three equal groups: control group: received 0.5 mL of pure olive oil, group 1: received 20 mg/kg/day BPA, and group 2: received 100 mg/kg/day BPA orally for 6 weeks. Fasting and two hours postprandial glucose levels were measured at the beginning and end of the study. Histopathological examination and imaging study of the pancreas were done.

Results

In clinical study: HbA1C and random blood glucose levels in diabetic children showed a significant increase compared to control. Children in control group showed controlled HbA1C, while the T1DM group showed 86% with poor diabetic control. There was a significant increase in BPA level in the T1DM group compared to the control. Rats that received BPA showed a marked increase in fasting and two hours postprandial glucose levels, histopathological changes in the pancreas with more changes determined in the high dose group, and a significant decrease in the islets of Langerhans diameters with group 2 more affected.

Conclusion

So, BPA exposure could be considered a risk factor for T1DM in children.

Preterm delivery and maternal obesity remain common complications in pregnancies with type 1 diabetes-A nationwide study in Sweden

AIM

A primary goal of obstetric care of women with type 1 diabetes (T1D) is to reduce the risks of preterm birth (PTB). Besides hyperglycaemia, maternal obesity is an important risk factor for PTB in T1D. However, it's unclear if public health efforts decreased risks of maternal obesity and PTB in pregnancies with T1D. We examined time-trends over the last 20 years in the distribution of gestational ages at birth (GA) in offspring of women with T1D in Sweden, and in maternal BMI in the same mothers.

METHODS

Population-based cohort study, using data from national registries in Sweden. To capture differences not only in the median values, we used quantile regression models to compare the whole distributions of GA's and early pregnancy BMI between deliveries in 1998-2007 (P1) and 2008-2016 (P2). Multivariable models were adjusted for differences in maternal age, smoking and education between periods 1 and 2.

RESULTS

The study included 7639 offspring of women with T1D between 1998 and 2016. The 10% percentile GA, increased with 0.09 days (95% CI: -0.11 to 0.35) between P1 and P2. The 90% percentile for BMI was 1.20 kg/m2 higher (95% CI: 0.57 to 1.83) in P2. Risks of PTB remained stable over time also when adjusting for maternal BMI.

CONCLUSION

Despite modern diabetes management, the distribution of GA, and consequently the risk of PTB in T1D, remained unchanged from 1998 to 2016. During the same time, maternal BMI increased, particularly in the already obese.

Evaluation of type 1 diabetes' partial clinical remission after three years of heterologous adipose tissue derived stromal/stem cells transplantation associated with vitamin D supplementation

BACKGROUND

Mesenchymal stem cell infusion and vitamin D supplementation may have immunomodulatory actions that could prolong the preservation of residual insulin secretion in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Intervention with these agents after onset of T1D could favor the development of a remission phase, with potential clinical impact. We aimed to compare the presence of clinical remission (CR), glycemic control and daily insulin requirement at 6, 12, 18, 24 and 36 months after the diagnosis of T1D using IDAA1c in patients who received therapy with adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ASC) infusion and vitamin D supplementation and a control group.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study analyzed data from the medical records of patients with T1D diagnosed between 15 and 40 years. Partial CR was defined as an IDAA1c index < 9. Patients in the intervention group received an infusion of adipose tissued-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) within 3 months after diagnosis and supplementation with 2000 IU of cholecalciferol for 1 year, started on the day following the infusion. Partial CR was also determined using the ISPAD criteria, to assess its agreement with IDAA1c.

RESULTS

A total of 28 patients were evaluated: 7 in the intervention group (group 1) and 21 in the control group (group 2). All patients in group 1 evolved with partial CR while only 46.7% of patients in group 2 had this outcome. Group 1 had a higher frequency of CR when evaluated with IDAA1c and ISPAD criteria. The mean duration of CR varied between the two criteria. Although HbA1c was similar between groups during follow-up, group 1 had a lower total daily insulin requirement (p < 0.005) at all time points. At 36 months, group 1 used 49% of the total daily insulin dose used by group 2 with similar glycemic control.

CONCLUSION

The intervention with infusion of ASC + vitamin D supplementation was associated with partial CR at 6 months. Although there were no differences in CR established by the IDAA1c and ISPAD criteria after three years of follow-up, patients who underwent intervention had nearly the half insulin requirement of controls with conventional treatment, with similar glycemic control.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

37001514.0.0000.5257.

Interpretation: use of autoantibodies in children

Judicious use of autoantibodies in paediatrics can be challenging. Autoimmune conditions can present with a wide range of signs and symptoms, many of which are non-specific. In combination with clinical features and laboratory findings, autoantibodies can facilitate diagnosis and in certain cases inform prognosis. Evidence for use of autoantibodies to guide and monitor treatment is limited. Caution is necessary when interpreting adult studies. We summarise the use of autoantibodies in paediatric practice with a guide on how they may be used.

The potential of the Mediterranean diet to improve metabolic control and body composition in youths with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

A chronic autoimmune disease with an increasing incidence rate, type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is typified by the degeneration of the pancreatic beta cells. Diabetes management is significantly impacted by nutrition. Although it has been demonstrated that following the Mediterranean diet (MD) improves metabolic control with type 2 diabetes in children and adults, its effects on children with T1DM have not received much attention.

OBJECTIVE

Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess whether adherence to Mediterranean diet is associated with better metabolic control and body composition in youths with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus. The study recruited T1DM patients aged 6-18 years at İstanbul University Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty Hospital's Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes Outpatient Clinic for follow-up.

METHODS

In addition to demographic variables, some anthropometric measurements, body composition and biochemical parameters such as: Trygliceride(TG), Total cholesterol (TC), High density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), Low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), (Aspartate aminotransferase) AST, Alanine transaminase (ALT) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was analyzed. The time in range (TIR) is a value obtained from continuous glucose monitoring. KIDMED was used to assess the participants' adherence with the MD.

RESULTS

Good adherence to the MD resulted in much larger height SDS than poor adherence. Poor adherence to MD resulted in higher body fat than moderate and good adherence. There is positivite correlation between TIR and KIDMED score. Adherence to MD is negatively associated with HbA1c. The regression anaylsis showed that a one-point rise in the KIDMED score would result in a 0.314-unit reduction in the HbA1c value (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this study found that adhering to MD led to improved anthropometric measurements, biochemistry, and diabetes outcomes. Awareness among children, adolescents with T1DM, and their parents about the benefits of MD compliance for glycemic and metabolic control should be raised.

An open label non-inferiority randomized controlled trial evaluated alternate day prednisolone given daily during infections vs. levamisole in frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome

Initial therapies for children with frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome include alternate-day prednisolone that is given daily during infections, or levamisole. In this open label, non-inferiority trial, 160 patients, 2 to 18-years-old with frequent relapses, were randomly assigned to receive either prednisolone (0.5-0.7 mg/kg/alternate-day, given daily during infections), or levamisole (2-2.5 mg/kg/alternate-days) for one-year. Patients with relapses on alternate day prednisolone at over 1 mg/kg, prior use of potent steroid-sparing therapies, eGFR under 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and significant steroid toxicity were excluded. Primary outcome was the proportion of patients with frequent relapses, defined as three-relapses in one-year, or two-relapses within six-months if associated with significant steroid toxicity or loss to follow up. Eighty patients each were randomized to receive prednisolone and levamisole. Baseline features showed preponderance of young patients presenting within two-years of disease onset. On intention-to-treat analysis, frequent relapses were more common in patients administered prednisolone (40% versus 22.5%; risk difference 17.5%; 95% confidence interval 3.4-31.6%). Prednisolone was not non-inferior to levamisole in preventing frequent relapses. However, the two groups showed similar proportions of patients in sustained remission, comparable frequency of relapses, and low frequency of adverse events. The decline in steroid requirement from baseline was higher in the levamisole group. Per-protocol analysis showed similar results. These results have implications for choice of therapy for frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome. Although therapy with alternate-day prednisolone was not non-inferior to levamisole in preventing frequent relapses, both therapies were effective in other outcome measures. Thus, levamisole was relatively steroid-sparing and may be preferred in patients at risk of steroid toxicity.

Poorly controlled pediatric type 1 diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD): An observational study

OBJECTIVES

Recent studies have suggested a link between type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) and metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in children and adolescent, but longitudinal evidence is lacking. This study aimed to investigate the potential association between poorly controlled T1D and elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT), serving as a proxy for MASLD in children and adolescents over time.

METHODS

The study included 32,325 children aged 2-17 years with T1D from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland who had undergone at least one assessment of liver enzyme levels recorded in the Diabetes-Patienten- Verlaufsdokumentation registry. Multivariable logistic and Cox regression models were calculated to show possible associations between T1D and elevated ALT values (>26 U/L in males, >22 U/L in females) as a proxy for MASLD.

RESULTS

Children with poorly controlled T1D (HbA1c > 11%) exhibited increased odds of elevated ALT values, after adjustment for age, sex, diabetes duration and overweight (odds ratio [OR] 2.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.10-3.10; p < 0.01). This finding is substantiated by a longitudinal analysis, which reveals that inadequately controlled T1D was associated with a higher hazard ratio (HR) of elevated ALT values compared to children with controlled T1D over an observation period extending up to 5.5 (HR: 1.54; 95% CI, 1.19-2.01; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the current study strongly links poorly controlled T1D in children and adolescents to MASLD irrespective of overweight. This association is not only present cross-sectionally but also increases over time. The study underscores the critical role of effective diabetes management in reducing the risk of MASLD in this population.

Three-Year Follow-Up Study Investigating Changes in Retinal Vascular Morphology and the Relationship with Diabetic Retinopathy in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to investigate changes in retinal microvascular morphology and associated factors, and their relationship with diabetic retinopathy (DR) in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

METHODS

Thirty-eight children enrolled in this 3-year follow-up study underwent complete ophthalmic examinations including fundus photography. Retinal vascular parameters were measured automatically and compared between baseline and follow-up. Multiple linear regression was used to investigate factors affecting changes in vascular parameters. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between retinal microvascular morphology and DR.

RESULTS

The caliber of all retinal vessels (within 1-1.5 papillary diameter [PD] from the center of the optic disc, p = 0.030; 1.5-2 PD, p = 0.003), arterioles, and venules (1.5-2 PD, p = 0.001) was narrower in nearly all regions in the follow-up group compared with the baseline group. Vascular tortuosity increased in the central part of the retina and decreased in the periphery. The density (1-1.5 PD, p = 0.030) and fractal dimension (p = 0.037) of retinal vessels were increased at the end of the follow-up compared with baseline. Retinal vascular caliber was independently correlated with DR (odds ratio 0.793 [95% confidence interval 0.633-0.993]; p = 0.044).

CONCLUSION

Retinal microvascular morphology in children with T1DM varied with the disease course. Narrower retinal vessels may be an independent risk factor for DR. Results of this study emphasized the importance of regular follow-up of fundus vascular morphology for the detection of early DR in children with T1DM.

Abnormal sleep duration is associated with sarcopenia in older Chinese people: A large retrospective cross-sectional study

Aim

Abnormalities in sleep patterns are a common health problem for the older adults. The relationship between sarcopenia and sleep duration in older people is controversial. This research is to examine the association between sleep duration and sarcopenia.

Methods

We drew 21,095 adults from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS). Not only we explore the relationship between sleep duration and sarcopenia, but also compare sleep duration to three sarcopenia subcomponents. Moreover, the sensitivity analysis was conducted by the gender and residence area to ascertain the discrepancy, separately. Finally, using restricted cubic spline to find the non-linear association between them.

Results

Among 7,342 community older adults engaged by CHARLS in 2015, the incidence of possible sarcopenia and sarcopenia was 23.14 and 11.30%, separately. Sleep duration (≤6 h) [OR(95%CI) = 1.30(1.03-1.65), p < 0.05] and (≥8 h) [OR(95%CI) = 1.33(1.05-1.69), p < 0.05] were significantly linked with possible sarcopenia, while long sleep duration (≥8 h) [OR(95%CI) = 1.41(1.01-2.02), p < 0.05] was correlated strongly with sarcopenia. A non-linear relationship (U-shaped) between sarcopenia risk and sleep duration was found (p for non-linear = 0.009).

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the importance of sleep duration in the onset of sarcopenia and might assist older persons to maintain good sleeping habits.

New and old criteria for diagnosing celiac disease: do they really differ? A retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to compare two groups of celiac patients: the first one, in which diagnosis was based on a "biopsy sparing" approach according to the 2012 ESPGHAN criteria, and the second one, based on the biopsy approach like the one of the 1991 Revised Criteria, in order to find relevant difference for sex, M/F ratio, age at diagnosis, clinical features at the onset, presence and prevalence of concomitant autoimmune disorders.

METHODS

Our study involves 61 patients having the Celiac Disease (CD) onset from February 2013 to February 2020. The 32 patients who received diagnosis according "biopsy sparing" criteria were enrolled in group (1) The 29 patients who received diagnosis by duodenal biopsy were enrolled in group (2) Prevalence of comorbidities was analysed through chi-square test.

RESULTS

In group 1 the prevalence of comorbidities such as Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM) and thyroiditis was of 53%, while in group 2 it was only of 24%. Analysing the IDDM prevalence between the two groups we found a relevant difference. At the same time, the prevalence of thyroiditis was also significantly different. In group 1, male patients, in particular, would seem to have a higher incidence of CD related autoimmune disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

An increased prevalence of IDDM, thyroiditis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in the first group would show that the "biopsy sparing" approach could expose patients to a greater length of disease activity that might be responsible for the onset of such comorbidities. Further studies should be carried out on more numerous samples of patients in order to confirm or not these data.

Adiponectin rs1501299 and chemerin rs17173608 gene polymorphism in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus: relation with macroangiopathy and peripheral artery disease

AIM

Although macrovascular complications represent the leading cause of mortality in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), the prevalence of subtle macrovascular affection including peripheral artery disease (PAD) among children with T1DM and its genetic predictors remains to be unraveled. Increasing evidence suggests a link between adiponectin rs1501299 and chemerin rs17173608 gene polymorphism and atherogenesis, and insulin resistance. Hence, this study assess the prevalence of these variants among children with T1DM in comparison to healthy controls and their association with macrovascular complications, namely PAD and hyperlipidemia.

METHODS

Fifty children with T1DM and 50 matched controls underwent a thorough assessment including adiponectin rs1501299 and chemerin rs17173608 gene polymorphisms, fasting lipids, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and ankle-brachial index (ABI). Cochran-Armitage trend test was used to decide the risk allele and evaluate the association between the candidate variant and PAD using a case-control design.

RESULTS

Children with T1DM were found to have significantly higher ABI (p = 0.011) than controls. Chemerin gene polymorphism was detected in 41 children with T1DM (82.0%), while adiponectin gene polymorphism was detected in 19 children (38.0%). Children with T1DM having GG chemerin variant and those having TT adiponectin variant had significantly higher cholesterol with significantly lower HDL-C and ABI than those having the other two variants (p < 0.005). Children with T1DM having abnormal ABI had significantly higher chemerin G (p = 0.017) and adiponectin T (p = 0.022) alleles than those with normal ABI. Cholesterol and ABI were independently associated with chemerin and adiponectin gene polymorphism by multivariable regression analysis.

CONCLUSION

Children with T1DM having chemerin and adiponectin gene polymorphisms have significantly higher cholesterol and ABI than those without these polymorphisms and controls.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The Research Ethics Committee of Ain Shams University, approval number R 31/2021.

Quality of Life and Glucose Regulation in Pediatric Patients with Type 1 Diabetes: A Study in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

Objective

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the current status of the quality of life (QOL) of pediatric patients and plasma glucose concentration regulation in children with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region.

Methods

The study involved children with T1DM admitted to the General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University between October 2011 and October 2021. The children and their parents completed general information and quality of life (QOL) questionnaires. The regulation of plasma glucose concentration was assessed based on HbA1c levels, and plasma glucose and QOL-influencing components were investigated.

Results

Among the 136 pediatric patients diagnosed with T1DM, the mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level was recorded at 8.7% (7.2%, 10.5%). A breakdown of the patient cohort revealed that 44 patients (32.4%) demonstrated good regulation of plasma glucose, 33 patients (24.3%) exhibited acceptable glycemic control, and 59 patients (43.3%) displayed poor regulation of plasma glucose. The control of plasma glucose in pediatric patients diagnosed with T1DM was affected by the duration of the disease, the patient's age, the frequency of daily plasma glucose measurements, the use of CGM, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and the education level of the mother. The control of plasma glucose, dietary management, DKA, the ability to learn, and health education are interfering factors of quality of life in children diagnosed with T1DM. Effective control of plasma glucose may ensure the QOL in children with T1DM, and DKA was the risk factor for QOL.

Conclusion

In Ningxia, the regulation of plasma glucose in pediatric and adolescent patients with T1DM remains suboptimal, leading to poor QOL. There is a pressing need to enhance glucose regulation and QOL through comprehensive strategies, which include reinforced dietary management, rigorous monitoring of plasma glucose levels, and heightened health education levels.

Differences in Plasma 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels at Diagnosis of Celiac Disease and Type 1 Diabetes

AIM

The aim of this work is to assess the vitamin D levels, evaluated as plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D of children with a new diagnosis of celiac disease (CD), of children with a new onset of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and in children with CD at diagnosis of T1D (T1D&CD).

METHODS

In this single-center observational study, we collected data for four groups of children and adolescents: T1D, CD, T1D&CD, and a control group (CG). The CG included schoolchildren who had negative results during a mass screening campaign for CD and were not diagnosed for T1D, according to RIDI Marche registry data, were considered for the purposes of this study. Plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D, 25(OH)D2, and 25(OH)D3 were considered as the parameters for evaluating vitamin D nutritional status, and the date of measurement was recorded to analyze vitamin D level seasonality. Vitamin D nutritional status was categorized as follows: severe deficiency (<10 ng/mL), deficiency (<20 ng/mL), insufficiency (20-29 ng/mL), or sufficiency/adequacy (≥30 ng/mL). The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the groups. The association of 25(OH)D levels with health conditions and seasonal differences of 25(OH)D levels was analyzed using a multiple linear regression model.

RESULTS

The number of children enrolled for the present study was 393: 131 in the CG, 131 CD, 109 T1D, and 22 T1D&CD. Significantly lower levels of vitamin D were displayed for children with CD, T1D, or both the diseases. Interestingly, severe vitamin D deficiency was detected in no children with CD, 1.5% of children in the CG, in 24.4% with T1D, and 31.8% with T1D&CD (p < 0.001). As expected, the CG children vitamin D levels were significantly influenced by seasonality. Contrarily, no seasonal differences were reported in children with CD, T1D, and T1D&CD. Multiple regression analysis showed that children with T1D and T1D&CD had lower 25(OH)D levels of 9.9 ng/mL (95% CI: 5.4; 14.5) and 14.4 ng/mL (95% CI: 6.2-22.7) compared to CG children (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed low levels of vitamin D diagnosis of T1D, CD, and T1D&CD; however, severe deficiency was only reported in children with T1D and T1D&CD. More studies are needed to better understand the role of this deficiency in children newly diagnosed with CD and T1D.

Carbohydrate counting and insulin analogs to treat type 1 diabetes mellitus. How to improve metabolic control?

OBJECTIVES

Clinical-laboratory comparison of a population of children and adolescents with DM1 followed at a Brazilian outpatient university clinic, at two different periods (2014 and 2020), regarding changes made both to the insulin therapy scheme and to the nutritional approach to carbohydrate counting.

METHODS

The data of patients with DM1 aged 0-19 years enrolled in the service in 2014 and 2020 were collected. Student's t-test was performed to compare the means of HbA1c and the variables of interest.

RESULTS

NPH + regular insulin was predominantly used in 2014 (49.1%), while in 2020, the predominance shifted to insulin analogs (48.4%). Pump use tripled from 1.3% in 2014 to 4.4% in 2020, and the percentage of patients performing carbohydrate counting reduced from 28.3% to 17.8%. Regarding HbA1c, the 2014 group of patients had a mean of 9.8%, while the 2020 group had a mean of 9.6% (p = 0.49).

CONCLUSION

The change in treatments between 2014 and 2020 did not result in a significant improvement in HbA1c levels. However, it was identified the importance of carbohydrate counting and the use of insulin analogs to improve metabolic control in this population at both times.

Study protocol of translation into Spanish and cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the problem areas in diabetes-Pediatric version (PAID-Peds) survey

AIM

The metabolic and psychological management of paediatric type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) can be challenging over time given that T1DM may cause a negative emotional burden and, consequently, result in poor metabolic control of the disease. The objectives of this study are to translate the Problem Area in Diabetes Survey-Pediatric version (PAID-Peds) into Spanish, adapt it culturally and validate it.

DESIGN

Multicenter cross sectional study.

METHODS

636 patients aged 8-17 years, diagnosed with T1DM, under treatment with insulin and follow-up at the Miguel Servet University Hospital in Zaragoza (Aragón, Spain), the Ramón y Cajal University Clinical Hospital in Madrid (Spain) and at the Sant Joan de Déu Hospital in Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain) between 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2024 will be included. This study will consist of two phases: (1) Translation and cultural adaptation of the original PAID-Peds® survey into Spanish following eight steps; (2) Validation of the Spanish version of the PAIS-Peds® survey. The statistical analysis will be performed using Jamovi® 2.1.23. The reliability or internal consistency will be calculated using Cronbach's alpha index (considering an index higher than 0.8 to be good) and the test-retest will be evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient. For validity, confirmatory factor analysis will be calculated. This study has been approved by the ethics and research committees at each centre.

RESULTS

The translation and validation into Spanish language of the Problem Area in Diabetes Survey-Pediatric version will be feasible, valid and reliable to detecting the youth-perceived burden of T1DM. Therapeutic education in diabetes-recommended by the WHO and the Diabetes Education Study Group-has shown encouraging results in glycaemia and psychosocial and behavioural factors in T1DM.

Prevalence of asthma in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

According to the Th1/Th2 paradigm, the expansion of Th1-type clones in individuals with type 1 diabetes results in reduced Th2-type clones, preventing the development of atopic diseases and vice versa. However, there is no consensus regarding the direct or inverse relationship between autoimmune and atopic diseases.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this scoping review was to examine the knowledge gap about the possibility of coexistence of asthma and type 1 diabetes and determine the prevalence of this association.

METHODS

A scoping review was conducted, following the proposal of the Joanna Briggs Institute. The Population, Concept, and Context strategy was used to formulate the guiding question. The proposed question was: "What is the prevalence of asthma in people with T1DM?" After excluding duplicate articles, analyzing titles and abstracts, and excluding articles that did not answer the guiding question, 17 articles remained and were included in this review.

RESULTS

Most of the articles selected conformed to the Th1/Th2 hypothesis, as the prevalence of asthma was lower in individuals with T1DM. However, similar or higher prevalence of asthma was found between cases and controls in few articles.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of asthma in people with T1DM ranged from 1.7% to 23.1%. Maybe the mechanisms that characterizes the Th1/Th2 paradigm aren't as simple as just the interaction of certain cytokines, since Th1-mediated autoimmune diseases and Th2- mediated atopy can coexist.

Prevalence of celiac-related antibodies and its impact on metabolic control in Egyptian children with type 1 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

The simultaneous presence of celiac disease and type 1 diabetes (T1DM) is coupled with more hazards of comorbidities and complications. This current study aimed to screen for celiac disease in Egyptian children with type 1 diabetes and evaluate its impact on glycemic control.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was verified with 200 Egyptian children diagnosed with T1DM and having a diabetic duration of less than five years. Testing for anti-tissue transglutaminase IgA (tTG-IgA), anti-tissue transglutaminase IgG (tTG-IgG), anti-Endomysial IgA (EMA), and Hb A1c levels were done.

RESULTS

The serological screening revealed that 11 cases (5.5%) tested positive; 8 children with T1DM (4.0%) showed tTG-IgA antibodies ≥ 10 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) with at least one symptom; and 3 cases (1.5%) had levels between 20 and 50 IU/ml (considering a cut-off point of 10 U/ML for positive results). Intestinal biopsy was performed for these three cases, with one case detected to have subtotal villous atrophy, resulting in an overall prevalence of celiac disease in T1DM as 4.5%. Children with positive screening exhibited a higher insulin dose, a higher HbA1c, an increased frequency of hypoglycemic attacks, and recurrent DKA compared to negative cases. A negative correlation was detected between tTG-IgA antibodies with height Z score and hemoglobin level, while a positive correlation was found between tTG-IgA antibodies and HbA1c level.

CONCLUSION

Undiagnosed celiac disease in children with T1DM negatively impacted metabolic control and affected their general health.

Immunometabolic biomarkers for partial remission in type 1 diabetes mellitus

Shortly after diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and initiation of insulin therapy, many patients experience a transient partial remission (PR) phase, also known as the honeymoon phase. This phase presents a potential therapeutic opportunity due to its association with immunoregulatory and β cell-protective mechanisms. However, the lack of biomarkers makes its characterization difficult. In this review, we cover the current literature addressing the discovery of new predictive and monitoring biomarkers that contribute to the understanding of the metabolic, epigenetic, and immunological mechanisms underlying PR. We further discuss how these peripheral biomarkers reflect attempts to arrest β cell autoimmunity and how these can be applied in clinical practice.

Paediatric diabetes-related presentations to emergency departments in Victoria, Australia from 2008 to 2018

OBJECTIVES

Despite significant treatment advances in paediatric diabetes management, ED presentations for potentially preventable (PP) complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) remains a major issue. We aimed to examine the characteristics, rates and trends of diabetes-related ED presentations and subsequent admissions in youth aged 0-19 years from 2008 to 2018.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the Victorian Emergency Minimum Dataset and the National Diabetes Register. A diabetes-related ED presentation is defined using the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision, Australian Modification diagnosis codes. 'Non-preventable' presentations were the number of youths with newly diagnosed diabetes, and the remaining are classified as PP diabetes-related presentations. Poisson regression model was used to examine the trends in incidence rate and prevalence.

RESULTS

Four thousand eight hundred and seventy-two (59%) of 8220 presentations were PP, 4683 (57%) were for DKA whereas 6200 (82%) required hospital admission. Diabetes-related ED presentations decreased from 38.4 to 27.5 per 100 youth with diabetes per year between 2008 and 2018 (β = -0.04; confidence interval [CI] -0.04 to -0.03; P < 0.001). Females, those aged 0-4 years and rural youth had higher rates of ED presentations than males, older age groups and metropolitan youth. DKA presentations decreased from 20.1 presentations per 100 youth with diabetes in 2008-2009 to 14.9 presentations per 100 youth with diabetes in 2017-2018. The rate of DKA presentations was 68% higher in rural areas compared to metropolitan areas (incidence rate ratio 1.68; CI 1.59-1.78; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the rates of diabetes-related ED presentations declined, PP diabetes-related presentations and subsequent hospitalisation remain high. Patient level research is required to understand the increased DKA presentations in rural youth.

Maternal type 1 diabetes, preterm birth, and risk of intellectual disability in the offspring: A nation-wide study in Sweden

OBJECTIVE

There are few data on long-term neurological or cognitive outcomes in the offspring of mothers with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The aims of this study were to examine if maternal T1D increases the risk of intellectual disability (ID) in the offspring, estimate the amount of mediation through preterm birth, and examine if the association was modified by maternal glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c).

DESIGN

Population-based cohort study using population-based data from several national registries in Sweden.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

All offspring born alive in Sweden between the years 1998 and 2015.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

The risk of ID was estimated through hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals (HR, 95% CI) from Cox proportional hazard models, adjusting for potential confounding. Risks were also assessed in mediation analyses and in subgroups of term/preterm births, in relation to maternal HbA1c and by severity of ID.

RESULTS

In total, 1,406,441 offspring were included. In this cohort, 7,794 (0.57%) offspring were born to mothers with T1D. The risk of ID was increased in offspring of mothers with T1D (HR; 1.77, 1.43-2.20), of which 47% (95% CI: 34-100) was mediated through preterm birth. The HRs were not modified by HbA1c.

CONCLUSION

T1D in pregnancy is associated with moderately increased risks of ID in the offspring. The risk is largely mediated by preterm birth, in particular for moderate/severe cases of ID. There was no support for risk-modification by maternal HbA1c.

Genetic Investigation of the Trail Mechanism in Diabetic and Non-diabetic Obese Patients

Obesity is an important healthcare issue caused by abnormally increased adipose tissue because of energy-intake overcoming energy expenditure. Disturbances in the physiological function of adipose tissue mediate the development of diabetes. It is a metabolic disease that results from decreased insulin-levels and/or changes in the insulin action mechanism. Tumor Necrosis Factor-Associated Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand(TRAIL), which is a member of the Tumor Necrosis Factor(TNF)-family with an important role in adipose tissue biology, is included in many studies with its ability to induce apoptosis in cancer cells, but the number of human-studies conducted on the gene related to its protective-role against diabetes and obesity at this level is insufficient. Our study was carried out as a case and control and included three groups (80 diabetic obese, 80 non-diabetic obese, and 80 healthy individuals as the control group). The Real-Time-PZR(RT-qPZR), and DNA Sanger-Sequencing Methods were used for gene expression and gene squences. As a result of the analyses, TRAIL gene expression level was found to be higher in the controls than in the diabetic-obese and non-diabetic-obese group. This change in TRAIL gene expression suggests that TRAIL maybe a protective factor against diabetes. The presence of rs781673405, rs143353036, rs1244378045, rs767450259, rs759369504, rs750556128, and rs369143448 mutations, which was determined with the Sequencing-Method, was shown for the first time in the present study. In addition, it is the first study in which human TRAIL gene-expression and sequencing were performed together. We believe that these data will make an important contribution to the literature.

Prevalence of celiac disease in Moroccan children with type 1 diabetes mellitus: A 16-year cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

There is limited data available regarding the prevalence of celiac disease (CD) among children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in Arab countries and the Middle East. This cross-sectional study has been designed to explore the prevalence of CD specifically within the population of Moroccan children and adolescents diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study of patients who underwent regular follow-up for T1DM at the Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Abderrahim Harouchi Children's University Hospital in Casablanca, over a 16-year period from 2004 to 2020. Patients were screened for CD by measuring anti-tissue transglutaminase IgA, and those with positive antibodies underwent endoscopy assessment.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

All 550 patients regularly followed up with TIDM were screened for CD. Fifty-five (33 girls/22 boys) of the screened patients had histologically documented CD, yielding a prevalence of 10%. Nineteen (41.9%) patients had developed CD within the initial four years of diagnosis with T1DM. Therefore, among the six confirmed CD patients, the average age at the onset of T1DM was 3.7 years. For twenty-four (57.5%) of the patients, exhibited no apparent clinical indications of CD, and their condition was only identified through systematic screening.

CONCLUSION

This study showed a high prevalence rate of CD associated with type 1 diabetes T1DM, particularly among young children. The results of this paper indicate one of the highest prevalence rates reported in the existing literature for the coexistence of CD and T1DM. These findings may suggest the necessity of a systematic screening of CD in T1DM patients.

Spatiotemporal association between COVID-19 incidence and type 1 diabetes incidence among children and adolescents: a register-based ecological study in Germany

Objective

Studies have shown an increased incidence of pediatric type 1 diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the detailed role of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the incidence increase in type 1 diabetes remains unclear. We investigated the spatiotemporal association of pediatric type 1 diabetes and COVID-19 incidence at the district level in Germany.

Methods

For the period from March 2020 to June 2022, nationwide data on incident type 1 diabetes among children and adolescents aged <20 years and daily documented COVID-19 infections in the total population were obtained from the German Diabetes Prospective Follow-up Registry and the Robert Koch Institute, respectively. Data were aggregated at district level and seven time periods related to COVID-19 pandemic waves. Spatiotemporal associations between indirectly standardized incidence rates of type 1 diabetes and COVID-19 were analyzed by Spearman correlation and Bayesian spatiotemporal conditional autoregressive Poisson models.

Results

Standardized incidence ratios of type 1 diabetes and COVID-19 in the pandemic period were not significantly correlated across districts and time periods. A doubling of the COVID-19 incidence rate was not associated with a significant increase in the incidence rate of type 1 diabetes (relative risk 1.006, 95% CI 0.987; 1.019).

Conclusion

Our findings based on data from the pandemic period indirectly indicate that a causal relationship between SARS-COV-2 infection and type 1 diabetes among children and adolescents is unlikely.

Feasibility of steroid-free tacrolimus-basiliximab immunosuppression in pediatric liver transplantation and predictors for steroid requirement

Avoidance of steroids in pediatric liver transplantation may reduce toxicity and morbidity. The aim of this study was to analyze the feasibility of a steroid-free tacrolimus-basiliximab immunosuppression scheme, the risk factors associated with steroid requirement, and safety parameters. Patients who underwent liver transplantation for biliary atresia between 2011 and 2019 were included and followed for 6 months after transplantation. Immunosuppression consisted of tacrolimus-based treatment with basiliximab induction. Steroid-free survival was estimated, and risk factors for steroid requirement were evaluated using multivariate Cox regression analysis. A total of 76 patients were included, of whom 42 (55.3%) required steroids (>14 d) due to biopsy-proven acute rejection (47.6%, n = 20), instability in liver function tests (35.7%, n = 15), tacrolimus-related adverse drug reactions (14.3%, n = 6), or other reasons (bronchospasm episode, n = 1). Steroid-free survival was 45.9% (95% CI, 35.9-58.8). Independent factors associated with steroid requirement included tortuosity in tacrolimus trough levels (≥1.76 vs. <1.76: HR 5.8, 95% CI, 2.6-12.7; p < 0.001) and mean tacrolimus trough levels (≥ 6.4 ng/mL vs. < 6.4 ng/mL: HR 0.4, 95% CI, 0.2-0.7; p = 0.002). The rate of bacterial and viral infections was comparable between patients with and without steroids, although in the former group, cytomegalovirus infection developed earlier ( p = 0.03). Patients receiving steroids had higher total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL levels ( p < 0.05) during follow-up, but no changes in the height Z-score were observed 1 year after transplantation. Basiliximab induction in combination with tacrolimus-based treatment avoided steroid requirements in 45% of the patients. Tacrolimus variability and trough levels below 6.4 ng/mL independently increased the risk of steroid requirement. Further efforts should be focused on personalizing immunosuppressive treatment.

Incidence, prevalence, and mortality of type 1 diabetes in children and youth in Burkina Faso 2013-2022

AIM

There are no data on type 1 diabetes (T1D) incidence and prevalence in Burkina Faso. We aimed to determine these in persons aged <25 years (y) since the implementation of Life for a Child (LFAC) program in 2013.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data were collected from the prospective program register. Diagnosis of T1D was clinical, based on presentation, abrupt onset of symptomatic hyperglycemia, need for insulin replacement therapy from diagnosis, and no suggestion of other diabetes types.

RESULTS

We diagnosed 312 cases of T1D <25y in 2013-2022. Male-to-female ratio was 1:1. T1D incidence <25y per 100,000 population/year increased from 0.08 (CI 95% 0.07-0.60) in 2013 to 0.34 (CI 95% 0.26-0.45) in 2022 (p=0.002). Incidence <15y/y rose from 0.04 (CI 95% 0.01-0.10) to 0.27 (CI 95% 0.18-0.38) per 100,000/year in 2013 and 2022, respectively (p < 0.002). Prevalence per 100,000 population <25y was 0.27 (CI 95% 0.19-0.37) in 2013 and rose to 1.76 (CI 95% 1.546-1.99) in 2022 (p<0.0001). Mortality rate was 20 (CI 95% 13-29.6) per 1,000-person y.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a low but sharply rising T1D incidence and prevalence rates in children and youth in Burkina Faso since LFAC program implementation. It is very likely this is partly due to improved case detection. Mortality remains substantial.

Have interventions aimed at assisting general practitioners in facilitating earlier diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in children been successful? A systematic review protocol

BACKGROUND

Early diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in children is critical to prevent deterioration to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a state where the body's insulin levels are critically low resulting in the use of fat for fuel and the accumulation of ketones. DKA is a life-threatening emergency where dehydration and cerebral oedema can quickly develop and lead to death. Despite treatment, DKA also has harmful impacts on cognition and brain development. Most children admitted to a hospital with DKA see their general practitioner in the week leading up to their admission. A delay in referral from general practice can result in delays in commencing lifesaving insulin therapy. Prior systematic reviews have explored publicity campaign interventions aimed at recognising type 1 diabetes earlier; however, no reviews have explored these interventions targeted at reducing the delay after presentation to the general practitioner. This systematic review aims to summarise interventions that target the diagnostic delay emerging from general practice and to evaluate their effectiveness in reducing DKA admissions.

METHODS

Six databases (Ovid (MEDLINE), Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL, Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews (EBMR) and Google Scholar) will be searched to identify studies exploring interventions to reduce diagnostic delay in children with type 1 diabetes, and hence DKA, in general practice. The primary outcome will be the number of DKA admissions to a hospital following a delay in general practice. The secondary outcome will be the behaviour of general practitioners with respect to urgent referral of children with type 1 diabetes. Title, abstract and full-text screening for exclusion and inclusion of publications will be completed by two independent reviewers. Any risks of bias within individual studies will be assessed by two independent reviewers, using the Risk Of Bias In Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions tool. Our confidence in the overall body of evidence will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The systematic review will be disseminated via publication and potentially in conference presentations. Ethics is not required for a systematic review of secondary data.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42023412504.

Predictors of the clinical severity of T1DM presentation at diagnosis in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM)

PURPOSE

We aimed to assess factors associated with the presence and severity of ketoacidosis (DKA) at pediatric type 1 diabetes (T1DM) diagnosis, in relation to pancreatic, associated and familial autoimmunity.

METHODS

Antibodies against pancreatic beta-cells, organ specific autoantibodies (thyroid, celiac, and parietal) and family history of autoimmunity were retrospectively evaluated in 116 T1DM patients aged 11.9 ± 4.6 (mean ± SD) years, with disease duration 7.62 ± 3.67 years (mean ± SD).

RESULTS

Most patients (67.2%) presented with DKA at diagnosis. Younger children (< 2 years) had tenfold risk of DKA, compared to older children (12.1-15 years) (OR = 10.8, 95% CI: 1.0-116.9, P = 0.05). Fasting c-peptide levels were lower in the DKA group (OR = 0.26, 95% CI = 0.07-0.89, P = 0.033). The number of anti-pancreatic antibodies at disease onset did not show any significant correlations with the presence (p = 0.889) or severity of DKA (p = 0.863). All patients with multiple autoimmunity (> 2 autoimmune diseases plus T1DM) presented with DKA. Familial autoimmunity acted protectively against DKA manifestation (OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.16-1.0, P = 0.051).

CONCLUSIONS

Among newly diagnosed T1DM patients, 67.2% presented with DKA. Younger age, lower c-peptide and the presence of associated autoimmunity were predictive factors of the presence and severity of DKA at diagnosis. High degree of suspicion, due to family history, may prevent DKA development and severity.

Dual-basal-insulin regimen for the management of dawn phenomenon in children with type 1 diabetes: a retrospective cohort study

Background

Handling of the dawn phenomenon (DP) with multiple daily insulin injection (MDII) regimen is a real challenge.

Objective

We aimed to demonstrate the effectiveness of a dual-basal-insulin (a long-acting glargine and an intermediate-acting neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH)) regimen for the management of DP in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). The primary efficacy outcome was to overcome morning hyperglycemia without causing hypoglycemia during the non-DP period of the night.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Method

Charts of 28 children with T1DM (12 female; 42.8%, mean age 13.7 ± 2.1 years) treated with MDII were retrospectively reviewed. The median duration of diabetes was 4.5 years (range 2-13.5 years). DP was diagnosed using a threshold difference of 20 mg/dL (0.1 mmol/L) between fasting capillary blood glucose at 3 a.m. and prebreakfast. NPH was administered at midnight in addition to daily bedtime (08.00-09.00 p.m.) glargine (dual-basal-insulin regimen). Midnight, 03:00 a.m., prebreakfast and postprandial capillary blood glucose readings, insulin-carbohydrate ratios, and basal-bolus insulin doses were recorded the day before the dual-basal-insulin regimen was started and the day after the titration of the insulin doses was complete. Body mass index standard deviation scores (BMI SDS) at the onset-3rd-12th month of treatment were noted.

Results

Before using dual basal insulin, prebreakfast capillary blood glucose levels were greater than those at midnight and at 03:00 a.m. (F = 64.985, p < 0.01). After titration of the dual-basal-insulin doses, there were significant improvements such that there were no statistically significant differences in the capillary blood glucose measurements at the three crucial time points (midnight, 03.00 a.m., and prebreakfast; F = 1.827, p = 0.172). No instances of hypoglycemia were reported, and the total daily insulin per kilogram of body weight did not change. The BMI SDS remained steady over the course of the 1-year follow-up.

Conclusion

In this retrospective cohort study, the dual-basal-insulin regimen, using a long-acting glargine and an intermediate-acting NPH, was effective in overcoming early morning hyperglycemia due to insulin resistance in the DP. However, the effectiveness of the dual-basal-insulin regimen needs to be verified by prospective controlled studies using continuous glucose monitoring metrics or frequent blood glucose monitoring.

Early weight gain after diagnosis may have an impact on remission status in children with new-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Residual beta-cell function and improvement in insulin sensitivity by reversal of glucose toxicity are two phenomena thought to be related to partial remission (PR). Body fat mass is the major determinant of insulin sensitivity. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the rate of body weight gain after diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and other clinical factors for the development and duration of PR.

METHODS

Children (2-16 years) with new-onset T1DM (n = 99) were grouped into remitters and non-remitters by using insulin dose-adjusted glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) values. Laboratory and clinical data as well as daily insulin requirement per kilogram of body weight at diagnosis and each visit were recorded, and the duration of PR was determined. Changes in body mass index standard deviation score (BMI-SDS) were calculated by the auxological data collected every 6 months.

RESULTS

There were 47 remitters (47.5%) and 52 (52.5%) non-remitters. The mean increase in BMI-SDS at the first 6 months of diagnosis was higher in the non-remitters than in the remitters (p = 0.04). Duration of PR was negatively correlated with the change in BMI-SDS between 6 and 12 months after diagnosis. Male sex, younger age, prepubertal status, and lower HbA1c were predictors of remission, among which male sex had the highest chance by multivariate regression.

CONCLUSIONS

Early rapid weight gain after diagnosis of T1DM may play a role in the lack of remission and shorter duration of PR. Interventions to prevent early rapid weight gain can maintain the development and prolongation of remission.

Profile of plasma free amino acids, carnitine and acylcarnitines, and JAK2v617f mutation as potential metabolic markers in children with type 1 diabetic nephropathy

Fifty diabetic nephropathy (DN) children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and 50 healthy matched controls were included. Chromatographic assays of 14 amino acids, free carnitine and 27 carnitine esters using high-performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization-mass spectroscopy, and genetic testing for JAK2v617f mutation using real-time PCR were performed. Patients had significantly lower levels of tyrosine, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and BCAA/AAA (aromatic chain amino acids) ratios, glycine, arginine, ornithine, free carnitine and some carnitine esters (C5, 6, 12 and 16) and higher phenylalanine, phenylalanine/tyrosine ratio and C18 compared with the controls and in the macro-albuminuria vs. the microalbuminuria group (p < 0.05 for all) except for free carnitine. Plasma carnitine was negatively correlated with eGFR (r = -0.488, p = 0.000). There were significant positive correlations between tyrosine with UACR ratio (r = 0.296, p = 0.037). The plasma BCAA/AAA ratio showed significant negative correlations with UACR (r = -0.484, p = 0.000). There was a significantly higher frequency of the JAK2V617F gene mutation in diabetic nephropathy patients compared with the control group and in macro-albuminuria than the microalbuminuria group (p = 0.000) for both. When monitoring children with T1DM, plasma free amino acids and acylcarnitine profiles should be considered, especially if they have tested positive for JAK2V617F for the early diagnosis of DN.

A scoping review exploring the role of the dietitian in the identification and management of eating disorders and disordered eating in adolescents and adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Eating disorder diagnoses and disordered eating behaviours are more prevalent in people living with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, in particular in adolescents. The role of the dietitian in this setting is not clearly outlined in the literature.

AIM

This scoping review aims to outline the available information for the role of the dietitian in identifying and managing eating disorders in adolescents and adults with co-occurring Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) in a clinical setting.

METHODS

The Johanna Briggs Institute was utilised to guide this scoping review and to develop a search strategy for relevant databases. Relevant organisations and societies websites and professional magazines were reviewed as part of the grey literature search.

RESULTS

38 peer reviewed journal articles, 5 professional articles, 5 book chapters and 11 clinical guidelines were included in this scoping review. Roles for the dietitian in identification, prevention and screening for eating disorders in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus were identified and outlined in a visual workflow. The role of the dietitian in the management of eating disorder in both the outpatient/community and inpatient setting and as core member of the multidisciplinary team was detailed in the literature.

CONCLUSION

This scoping review mapped the available information in the current literature on the role of the dietitian in the identification and management of eating disorders and disordered eating in adolescents and adults with a dual diagnosis of T1DM. The reviewed literature suggests there is a strong reliance on expert opinion and practice to inform the role of the dietitian. Further research is required in order to ensure more robust evidence-based practice in this area.

Glycemic variability and time in range among children with type 1 diabetes on insulin pump during the Covid-19 pandemic in Egypt; single center experience

BACKGROUND

Covid-19 has impacted the lives of individuals worldwide especially those with chronic illnesses. Children with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) are at risk of glycemic deterioration during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, some studies reported glycemic improvement in these children during the pandemic.

AIM

To assess the impact of Covid-19 on glycemic control and acute complications among children with T1DM on insulin pump in Egypt.

METHODOLOGY

Forty-two children with T1DM on insulin pump for at least 1 year were assessed during the period from June 2020 to May 2021 for insulin requirements, insulin-pump problems, frequency of diabetic-ketoacidosis (DKA), hypoglycemia and HbA1C. Continuous-glucose monitoring was done using Medtronic i-pro device for 5 days. Data were compared to those obtained from the patients' medical records 1 year previously.

RESULT

Upon comparing data during Covid-19 pandemic with previous data from 12-24 months before Covid-19, there was a significant small increase in the mean total daily insulin dose from 0.83 ± 0.28 to 0.88 ± 0.30 U/kg/day with a similar small increase in the mean basal percentage from 51.19 ± 3.46 to 52.74 ± 4.31. Interestingly, the median time in range showed small increase from 53 (IQR 47-61) to 57.0 (IQR 51-73), the mean coefficient of variation showed small decrease from 42.10 ± 9.90 to 38.20 ± 8.12 and the mean HbA1C significantly decreased from 8.8 ± 1.3 (72.31 ± 16.78 mmol/ml) to 7.8 ± 1.2 mg/dl (61.31 ± 16.62 mmol/mol). Twenty-nine children (69%) had insulin-pump problems in the form of skin irritation (31%), skin infection (7.1%) and pump Set/Site occlusion (31%).

CONCLUSION

No safety issues and overall glycemic improvement were reported among the children with T1DM on insulin pump therapy from this single center during the covid-19 pandemic.

Determinants and Characteristics of Insulin Dose Requirements in Children and Adolescents with New-Onset Type 1 Diabetes: Insights from the INSENODIAB Study

Aims

New-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) in pediatric patients represents a clinical challenge for initial total daily insulin dosing (TIDD) due to substantial heterogeneity in practice and lack of consensus on the optimal starting dose. Our INSENODIAB (INsulin SEnsitivity in New Onset type 1 DIABetes) study is aimed at (1) exploring the influence of patient-specific characteristics on insulin requirements in pediatric patients with new-onset T1D; (2) constructing a predictive model for the recommended TIDD tailored to individual patient profiles; and (3) assessing potential associations between TIDD and patient outcomes at follow-up intervals of 3 and 12 months.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive analysis of medical records for children aged 6 months to 18 years, hospitalized for new-onset T1D from 2013 to 2022. The study initially involved multivariable regression analysis on a retrospective cohort (rINSENODIAB), incorporating baseline variables. Subsequently, we validated the model robustness on a prospective cohort (pINSENODIAB) with a significance threshold of 5%. The model accuracy was assessed by Pearson's correlation.

Results

Our study encompassed 103 patients in the retrospective cohort and 80 in the prospective cohort, with median TIDD at diagnosis of 1.1 IU/kg BW/day (IQR 0.5). The predictive model for optimal TIDD was established using baseline characteristics, resulting in the following formula: TIDD (IU/d) = ([0.09 × Age2] + [0.68 × %Weight Loss] + [28.60 × Veinous pH] - [1.03 × Veinous bicarbonates] + [0.81 × Weight] - 194.63). Validation of the model using the pINSENODIAB cohort demonstrated a significant Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.74. Notably, no significant correlation was observed between TIDD at diagnosis and partial remission markers (IDAA1C, C-peptide) at 3- and 12-months postdiagnosis time points.

Conclusions

In the context of new-onset T1D in pediatric patients, we identified key influencing factors for determining optimal TIDD, including age, percentage of weight loss, weight, veinous pH, and bicarbonates. These findings have paved the way for the development of a dosing algorithm to potentially expedite glycemic control stabilization and facilitate a more individualized approach to treatment regimens.