Diabetes Mellitus-Related All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality in a National Cohort of Adults

Cardiac energy metabolism in diabetes: emerging therapeutic targets and clinical implications

Patients with diabetes are at an increased risk for developing diabetic cardiomyopathy and other cardiovascular complications. Alterations in cardiac energy metabolism in patients with diabetes, including an increase in mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation and a decrease in glucose oxidation, are important contributing factors to this increase in cardiovascular disease. A switch from glucose oxidation to fatty acid oxidation not only decreases cardiac efficiency due to increased oxygen consumption but it can also increase reactive oxygen species production, increase lipotoxicity, and redirect glucose into other metabolic pathways that, combined, can lead to heart dysfunction. Currently, there is a lack of therapeutics available to treat diabetes-induced heart failure that specifically target cardiac energy metabolism. However, it is becoming apparent that part of the benefit of existing agents such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors may be related to their effects on cardiac energy metabolism. In addition, direct approaches aimed at inhibiting cardiac fatty acid oxidation or increasing glucose oxidation hold future promise as potential therapeutic approaches to treat diabetes-induced cardiovascular disease.

Advances in incretin therapies for targeting cardiovascular disease in diabetes

The global prevalence of obesity is skyrocketing at an alarming rate, with recent data estimating that one-in-eight people are now living with the disease. Obesity is a chronic metabolic disorder that shares underlying pathophysiology with other metabolically-linked diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease and diabetic cardiomyopathy. There is a distinct correlation between type 2 diabetes status and the likelihood of heart failure. Of note, there is an apparent sexual dimorphism, with women disproportionately affected with respect to the degree of severity of the cardiac phenotype of diabetic cardiomyopathy that results from diabetes. The current pharmacotherapies available for the attenuation of hyperglycaemia in type 2 diabetes are not always effective, and have varying degrees of efficacy in the setting of heart failure. Insulin can worsen heart failure prognosis whereas metformin, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and more recently, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), have demonstrated cardioprotection with their administration. This review will highlight the advancement of incretin therapies for individuals with diabetes and heart failure and explore newly-reported evidence of the clinical usefulness of GLP-1R agonists in this distinct phenotype of heart failure.

Impact of COPD on cardiovascular risk factors and outcomes in people with established cardiovascular disease

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the association between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in people with established CVD. Knowing if COPD is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events would guide appropriate secondary prevention.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the risk of COPD on major adverse cardiac events (MACEs, acute myocardial infarction, stroke and cardiovascular death) in a complete real-world population of a large province, with known CVD.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective population cohort study using health administration, medication, laboratory, electronic medical record and other data from Ontario, Canada. All people with a history of CVD with and without physician-diagnosed COPD as of 2008 were followed until 2016 and cardiac risk factors, sociodemographic factors, comorbidities and other factors were compared. Sequential cause-specific hazard models adjusting for these factors determined the risk of MACE in people with COPD.

RESULTS

Of 496 056 individuals with CVD in Ontario on 1 January 2008, 69 161 (13.9%) had COPD. MACE occurred more frequently among those with CVD (45.3 per 1000 person-years) and COPD compared with those with CVD alone (28.6 per 1000 person-years) (HR 1.24, 95% CI 1.21-1.26) after adjustment for cardiac risk factors, comorbidities, socioeconomic status and other factors. People with COPD were less likely to receive preventive CVD medications or see a cardiologist.

CONCLUSION

In a large, real-world population of people with established CVD, COPD was associated with a higher rate of cardiovascular events but a lower rate of preventive therapy. Strategies are needed to improve secondary CVD prevention in the COPD population.

Socioeconomic inequalities and diabetes complications: an analysis of administrative data from Hungary

Diabetes complications are associated with increased healthcare costs and worsened patient outcomes. In this paper, we analyse how individual-level demographic and territorial-level socioeconomic and healthcare variables influence the presence and severity of diabetes complications and their relationship with mortality. Our study utilizes anonymized administrative healthcare data on all diabetes patients of Hungary between 2010 and 2017. We construct settlement-year level and individual-year level panel datasets to analyse diabetes prevalence, incidence and complications, employing Poisson and logit models to explore associations between complications and the explanatory variables. The adapted Diabetes Complications Severity Index (aDCSI) is employed to quantitatively evaluate the severity of complications by aggregating individual complication scores from ICD-10 diagnosis codes. We find that diabetes prevalence and incidence are higher in settlements with above-median unemployment rates, where patients exhibit more severe complications, as shown by higher average aDCSI scores. Among socioeconomic factors, unemployment rate is particularly associated with increased aDCSI scores, while better healthcare access is associated with lower aDCSI scores in unadjusted but with higher scores in adjusted models. The presence and severity of complications, especially renal, cardiovascular and peripheral vascular ones, substantially increase 5-year inpatient mortality. Most of the mortality difference by settlement-level unemployment rate disappears when complications are accounted for. We conclude that socioeconomic inequalities, particularly higher unemployment rates, are strongly linked to diabetes complications and associated mortality risk. Addressing these disparities through improved healthcare accessibility and targeted public health strategies could play a crucial role in reducing the burden of diabetes-related complications and improving patient outcomes.

Usefulness of the CDC/AAP and the EFP/AAP Criteria to Detect Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Subjects with Diabetes and Severe Periodontal Disease

Background/Objectives: Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease associated with many systemic disorders such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The aim was to evaluate the usefulness of the CDC/AAP and the EFP/AAP criteria to detect subclinical atherosclerosis in subjects with diabetes and severe periodontal disease. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Atheroma plaque was evaluated by high-resolution carotid and femoral ultrasonography. A dental examination protocol was implemented by a trained periodontist. A full-mouth periodontal clinical examination was carried out at six sites by automated computerized Florida Probe Periodontal Probing. Periodontal disease was defined by CDC/AAP and EFP/AAP criteria. Results: In total, 98 patients were included (60.2% women), of which 50% had diabetes. Subjects with diabetes showed a high prevalence of severe cases of periodontal disease. Both criteria were useful to detect the presence of atheroma plaque only in the presence of diabetes. However, the CDC/AAP criteria had higher correlation with atheroma plaques than EFP/AAP criteria (r = 0.522 vs. r = 0.369, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The CDC/AAP and the EFP/AAP criteria are a useful tool to identify subclinical atherosclerosis in subjects with severe periodontal disease and diabetes. These results show the potential role of the oral healthcare team in the dental office for the identification of subjects with diabetes at risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Association of serum parathyroid hormone within normal range with the prevalence and prognosis among adults with diabetes and prediabetes: insight from NHANES 2003-2006 data

Background

Previous research has established a link between high blood levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and hyperglycemia, as well as early mortality. However, the extent of this relationship and the predictive value of PTH for mortality risk in hyperglycemic populations have been minimally explored.

Methods

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey study conducted from 2003 to 2006 identified 932 adults with diabetes and 1645 adults with prediabetes. A weighted multivariate logistic regression analysis was utilized to examine the association between PTH levels and hyperglycemia. Furthermore, Cox proportional hazards regression models were employed to examine the correlation between PTH levels and both cardiovascular and overall mortality within the hyperglycemia cohort.

Results

(1) The research findings revealed a negative association between PTH levels (per 10-pg/mL increase) and diabetes status (OR, 0.79; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.73-0.86). (2) There was a significant correlation between the risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratios (HR), 1.13; 95% CI, 1.01-1.29) and cardiovascular disease mortality (HR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.05-1.84) among individuals with diabetes for every 10-pg/mL increase in PTH levels.

Conclusion

The current research shows that individuals with elevated PTH spectrum within the normal range are less likely to have diabetes, while those with higher PTH levels in adults with diabetes are linked to worse outcomes, particularly cardiovascular mortality.

Fixed dose combination of dapagliflozin, glimepiride and extended-release metformin tablets in patients with type 2 diabetes poorly controlled by metformin and glimepiride: A phase III, open label, randomized clinical study in India

AIM

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a triple fixed-dose combination (FDC) therapy of dapagliflozin + glimepiride + metformin hydrochloride extended-release (DAPA + GLIM + MET ER) tablets in Indian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) inadequately controlled by combination of GLIM + MET.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A phase III, randomized, open-label, active-controlled study was conducted for a maximum 30 weeks (primary treatment [16 weeks]; uptitration [12 weeks] and follow-up [2 weeks]). Eligible patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either the FDC of DAPA + GLIM + MET ER or the FDC of GLIM + MET prolonged-release (PR) once-daily. The primary efficacy endpoint was a change in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) from baseline to week 16.

RESULTS

The mean reduction in HbA1c from baseline to week 16 was significantly greater with the FDC of DAPA + GLIM + MET ER compared to the FDC of GLIM + MET PR (-1.98% ± 1.01% vs. -1.64% ± 0.86%, p = 0.0047). The mean reduction in HbA1c from baseline to week 12 was significantly greater with the FDC of DAPA + GLIM + MET ER versus dual FDC (p < 0.0001). The proportion of patients achieving HbA1c <7.0% was significantly greater with the FDC of DAPA + GLIM + MET ER versus dual FDC at week 12 (19.1% vs. 6.5%; p = 0.0002) and week 16 (52.6% vs. 36.7%; p = 0.0015). A significant decrease in HbA1c, fasting and post-prandial blood glucose from baseline to weeks 12, 16, and 28 was observed in both arms. The incidence of TEAEs was similar across both arms.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that the FDC of DAPA + GLIM + MET ER tablets once daily was significantly better than dual FDC in achieving glycaemic control in patients with poorly controlled T2DM. Both treatments were well-tolerated.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

CTRI/2022/03/041424, registered on 28 March 2022.

Rising Mortality Related to Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension: Trends and Disparities in the United States (1999-2023)

BACKGROUND

Individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) are at an increased risk of vascular stiffness and atherosclerosis, which can predispose them to hypertension (HTN). Our study aims to analyze long-term mortality trends related to DM and HTN in the United States (US) and to identify vulnerable populations.

METHODS

The CDC WONDER database was used to extract mortality data among adults (≥ 25 years of age) in the US who had concomitant DM and HTN. Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) were estimated and mortality trends were assessed using annual percentage change (APCs) with JoinPoint.

RESULTS

A total of 2 769 118 deaths were attributed to DM and HTN in the US from 1999 to 2023. The AAMRs increased from 14.9 in 1999 to 66.8 in 2023 reflecting a 4.5-fold increase in mortality. A peak in mortality was observed during the COVID-19 pandemic with AAMR reaching 77.9 in with an APC of 15.7. Men had consistently higher AAMR compared to women (84.5 vs. 52.6 in 2023). Among racial/ethnic groups, non-Hispanic (NH) Black or African American individuals had the highest average AAMR, followed by Hispanic or Latino individuals, NH Other populations, and lastly the NH White individuals. The south had the highest AAMR among census regions and rural areas had higher mortality rates compared to urban areas (85.5 vs. 71.7).

CONCLUSION

Our study shows a 4.5-fold increase in DM and HTN-related mortality in the United States from 1999 to 2023. Demographic and geographical disparities were evident with men, NH Blacks or African Americans, and rural areas at the highest risk reflecting the need for improved healthcare.

Endothelial Activation and Stress Index Predicts All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality in Hypertensive Individuals: A Nationwide Study

Emerging evidence links the Endothelial Activation and Stress Index (EASIX) and mortality risk in coronary artery disease, but its relevance in hypertensive patients remains unclear. This study examines the association between EASIX and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in hypertensive individuals. The analysis included 6138 hypertensive patients from seven National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHNES) cycles (2003-2016), with mortality data obtained from the National Death Index (NDI). Over a median follow-up of 98 months, 1435 (23.4%) participants died, including 400 (6.5%) from cardiovascular causes. Restricted cubic spline analysis revealed a positive association between EASIX and both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Weighted multivariable Cox regression indicated that each 1-unit increase in EASIX corresponding to a 25% and 23% rise in mortality risk, respectively. Based on the optimal cutoff value determined using the maximally selected rank statistics method, participants were stratified into higher (>0.79) and lower (≤0.79) EASIX groups. Higher EASIX was significantly associated with increased all-cause mortality risk (HR 1.46, 95% CI 1.23-1.73, p < 0.0001). Higher EASIX scores were associated with increased cardiovascular mortality, especially in former/current smokers and those with diabetes/prediabetes. Time-dependent receiver operating characteristic analysis assessed the predictive accuracy of EASIX, yielding area under the curve (AUC) for 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year survival of 0.71, 0.67, 0.67, and 0.67 for all-cause mortality and 0.79, 0.73, 0.73, and 0.71 for cardiovascular mortality. In conclusion, elevated EASIX is independently associated with increased all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in hypertensive patients, suggesting its potential as a predictive biomarker in clinical practice.

Prognostic impact of hypertension and diabetes in patients with cardiac amyloidosis

BACKGROUND

Hypertension and diabetes may increase the risk of adverse events in the general population and patients with cardiomyopathies, however, their role in patients with cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is still unclarified.

AIMS

to evaluate the effect on phenotype and clinical outcomes of hypertension and diabetes in patients with CA.

METHODS

Data from 5 Italian Amyloidosis Referral Centres were used to describe clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with CA based on the presence of a history of hypertension and diabetes.

RESULTS

The study includes 887 patients with CA (311 light chain CA, 87 hereditary transthyretin CA, 489 wild-type transthyretin CA). Median age was 75 years (67-81), and 692 (78 %) were men. Five hundred-seven (57 %) patients had hypertension, 127 (14 %) had diabetes. In multivariable linear regression analysis, hypertension was associated with an increased interventricular septal thickness (coefficient 0.63,95 % CI 0.2-1.06), and augmented E/e' ratio (1.92,95 % CI 0.55-3.29). On Cox regression, diabetes was independently associated with death and heart failure hospitalizations (HR 1.45,95 % CI 1.05-1.99, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with hypertension present a more severe phenotype with increased LV wall thickness and more severe diastolic dysfunction compared to non-hypertensive. The presence of diabetes in this cohort is associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes.

Lipotoxicity as a therapeutic target in the type 2 diabetic heart

Cardiac lipotoxicity, characterized by excessive lipid accumulation in the cardiac tissue, is a critical contributor to the pathogenesis of diabetic heart. Recent research has highlighted the key mechanisms underlying lipotoxicity, including mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, and cell apoptosis, which ultimately impair the cardiac function. Various therapeutic interventions have been developed to target these pathways, mitigate lipotoxicity, and improve cardiovascular outcomes in diabetic patients. Given the global escalation in the prevalence of diabetes and the urgent demand for effective therapeutic approaches, this review focuses on how targeting cardiac lipotoxicity may be a promising avenue for treating diabetes.

Association of quality of care and long-term mortality risk for individuals presenting with ST-segment myocardial infarction (STEMI) by diabetes mellitus status: A nationwide cohort study

AIMS

This study aimed to assess how diabetes influences the quality of care and longer-term outcomes in contemporary STEMI cohorts.

METHODS

We analysed 283,658 adults hospitalised with STEMI from the United Kingdom Myocardial Ischaemia National Audit Project (MINAP) registry between 2005 and 2019. This was linked with Office of National Statistics data to provide out of hospital mortality outcomes. We compared longer-term outcomes depending on diabetes status and assessed the effect of quality of care using the opportunity-based quality-indicator score (OBQI).

RESULTS

Individuals with diabetes were older (median age 68.7 vs. 65.5), underwent percutaneous coronary intervention less frequently (60 % vs. 63 %) and were less likely to achieve a door-to-balloon time of < 60 min (69 % vs. 75 %) or < 120 min (89 % vs. 92 %). Their adjusted all-cause mortality risk was higher during follow-up, from 30 days (HR: 1.49, CI: 1.44-1.54), to up to 10 years of follow up (HR: 1.54, CI: 1.52-1.57), compared to individuals without diabetes. Excellent inpatient care was associated with lower mortality rates within individuals with diabetes (Diabetes: HR 0.56, CI: 0.50-0.64, No diabetes: HR 0.62, CI: 0.58-0.67).

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals with diabetes have a higher risk of long-term mortality after STEMI. They experience delays in angiography and receive lower quality inpatient care.

Testing of a Culinary Medicine Intervention for Racially/Ethnically Diverse Adults With Type 2 Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Assess if a virtual culinary medicine program improves healthy eating, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and associated variables among adults with type 2 diabetes.

DESIGN

Mixed-methods, intervention-only pilot study.

SETTING

Classes via video conferencing from the teaching kitchen, with participants cooking from their homes.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred and four patients from a Texas primary care system.

INTERVENTIONS

Five-session program (Spanish and English) led by a dietitian.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

HbA1c. Secondary outcomes included MyPlate knowledge, self-efficacy, healthy eating and cooking behaviors, diabetes self-management, perceived health, and blood pressure.

ANALYSIS

Multilevel mixed-effects regression to analyze changes at pretreatment, posttreatment, and 6-month follow-up. Framework analysis to analyze postintervention interviews.

RESULTS

Participants with complete posttest data (n = 61) demonstrated statistically significant (P <0.05) improvements in MyPlate knowledge, cooking self-efficacy, servings of fruits and vegetables, frequency of healthy food intake, shopping, cooking and eating behaviors, diabetes self-management, and perceived health, compared with pretest. HbA1c levels showed statistically significant reductions from pretest to posttest (P = 0.02) and at 6-month follow-up (P <0.001). Participants reported high satisfaction and sustained new habits.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

We saw improvements in healthy eating and cooking behaviors and HbA1c. While further rigorous testing is needed, this program could be incorporated into clinical practices as a brief intervention for patients with type 2 diabetes.

The association between county-level social determinants of health and cardio-kidney-metabolic disease attributed all-cause mortality in the US: A cross sectional analysis

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association recently defined cardio-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome as the intersection between metabolic, renal, and cardiovascular disease. Understanding the contemporary estimates of CKM related mortality in the US is essential for developing targeted public interventions.

METHODS

We analyzed state-level and county-level CKM-associated all-cause mortality data (2010-2019) from the CDC Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (WONDER). Median and interquartile (IQR) age-adjusted mortality rates (aaMR) per 100,000 were reported and linked with a multi-component metric for social deprivation: the Social Deprivation Index (SDI: range 0 - 100) grouped as: I: 0 - 25, II: 26 - 50, III: 51 - 75, and IV: 75 - 100. We fit pairwise comparisons between SDI groups and evaluated aaMR stratified by sex, race, and location.

RESULTS

In 3101 counties, pooled aaMR was 505 (441-579). Oklahoma (643) and Massachusetts (364) had the highest and lowest values. aaMR increased across SDI groups [I: 454(404, 505), IV: 572(IQR: 495.9, 654.7); p < 0.001]. Men had higher rates [602 (526, 687)] than women [427 (368, 491)]. Metropolitan [476 (419, 542)] had lower rates than non-metropolitan counties [521 (454, 596)]. Non-Hispanic Black [637 (545, 731)] had higher rates than non-Hispanic White residents [497 (437, 570]. CKM associated aaMR remained reasonably constant between 2010 and 2019 (Mann Kendall test for trend p-value = 0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

In the US, CKM mortality disproportionately affects more socially deprived counties. Inability to reduce CKM mortality rates over the study period highlights the need for targeted policy interventions to curb the ongoing high burden.

Diabetes and Wellness Smartphone Applications for Self-Management among Adults With Diabetes in the United States

BACKGROUND

Diabetes self-management plays a vital role in improving clinical outcomes and the quality of life of individuals living with diabetes. Despite considerable research on its impact on clinical outcomes, diabetes self-management continues to be challenging for many individuals living with the condition. As part of the growth in digital health technologies for diabetes care, smartphone applications present potential opportunities to bridge the existing gaps in self-management and improve patient outcomes.

METHOD

Participants (N = 3241 people with diabetes) were recruited to answer questions about diabetes self-management, including their use of digital tools, their preferences for smartphone applications for diabetes, and the preferred functions of these applications they found useful. Frequency distributions and chi-square analyses were performed to examine the demographic differences among users of diabetes and general wellness applications.

RESULTS

Among participants, 30.2% reported using health applications specifically made for diabetes management, while 33.9% reported using health applications that were not diabetes-specific. Considerable differences in demographic characteristics were found between users and nonusers of both diabetes-specific and general health applications groups. The most preferred applications provided the opportunity to engage with continuous glucose monitoring data (i.e., continuous measurement; 47.4%) followed by glucose monitoring (i.e., single reading measurement; 20.9%), food intake trackers (23.6%), and fitness goal trackers (22.8%).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that the use of digital health technologies is popular for people living with diabetes, but more needs to be done to ensure wider adoption and sustained use.

Association between the stress hyperglycemia ratio and all-cause mortality in critically ill patients with T2DM: a retrospective study

Background

Previous studies have shown a significant correlation between the stress-hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) and mortality. However, it is unknown whether the SHR has the same predictive value in severely ill patients. The main purpose of this research was to investigate the association between the SHR and all-cause mortality in critically ill patients with T2DM.

Methods

The data used in this study were derived from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC-IV) database. The primary outcome was 180-day mortality and the secondary outcomes were 28-day, 90-day and 365-day mortality. The main analytical methods included: Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, the COX proportional hazards model and restricted cubic splines.

Results

A total of 993 patients were included. The 28-day, 90-day, 180-day, and 365-day mortalities reached 10.4%, 14.4%, 16.7% and 19.0%, respectively. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis revealed that the elevated SHR was significantly related to 28-day, 90-day and 180-day all-cause mortality even after cofounder adjustment. Restricted cubic spline analysis revealed a nonlinear association between the SHR and the risk of 28-day (p for nonlinear=0.014), 90-day (p for nonlinear=0.007), 180-day (p for nonlinear=0.001) and 365-day (p for nonlinear=0.003) all-cause mortality.

Conclusion

SHR is significantly associated with 28-day, 90-day and 180-day all-cause mortality in critically ill patients with T2DM. This may help us identify patients at higher risk of death early.

Triglyceride-glucose related indices as predictors for major adverse cardiovascular events and overall mortality in type-2 diabetes mellitus patients

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have indicated that triglyceride glucose (TyG)-waist height ratio (WHtR) and TyG-waist circumference (TyG-WC) are effective indicators for evaluating insulin resistance. However, research on the association in TyG-WHtR, TyG-WC, and the risk and prognosis of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) cases are limited.

AIM

To clarify the relation in TyG-WHtR, TyG-WC, and the risk of MACEs and overall mortality in T2DM patients.

METHODS

Information for this investigation was obtained from Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes (ACCORD)/ACCORD Follow-On (ACCORDION) study database. The Cox regression model was applied to assess the relation among TyG-WHtR, TyG-WC and future MACEs risk and overall mortality in T2DM cases. The RCS analysis was utilized to explore the nonlinear correlation. Subgroup and interaction analyses were conducted to prove the robustness. The receiver operating characteristic curves were applied to analysis the additional predicting value of TyG-WHtR and TyG-WC.

RESULTS

After full adjustment for confounding variables, the highest baseline TyG-WHtR cohort respectively exhibited a 1.353-fold and 1.420-fold higher risk for MACEs and overall mortality, than the lowest quartile group. Similarly, the highest baseline TyG-WC cohort showed a 1.314-fold and 1.480-fold higher risk for MACEs and overall mortality, respectively. Each 1 SD increase in TyG-WHtR was significantly related to an 11.7% increase in MACEs and a 14.9% enhance in overall mortality. Each 1 SD increase in TyG-WC corresponded to an 11.5% in MACEs and a 16.6% increase in overall mortality. Including these two indexes in conventional models significantly improved the predictive power for MACEs and overall mortality.

CONCLUSION

TyG-WHtR and TyG-WC were promising predictors of MACEs and overall mortality risk in T2DM cases.

Association of ethylene oxide exposure with all-cause mortality risk among adult population with different stages of diabetes progression

The actual effects of ethylene oxide (EO) exposure on diabetes population are unknown. This prospective study aimed to examine the association of EO with all-cause mortality risk among adults with different stages of diabetes progression. Study participants were selected from NHANES 2013-2018. The mortality was ascertained through linkage to National Death Index files. Data were analyzed using weighted Cox proportional regressions to examine the associations of hemoglobin adducts of EO (HbEO) with all-cause mortality risk. Restricted cubic spline was applied to flexibly model the non-linear association. Results showed the median of follow-up period was 48.0 months. The participants with diabetes had the highest mortality (p = 0.001). The association of all-cause mortality risk with HbEO was overall positive among diabetes (weighted covariates-adjusted HR: 1.089, 95% CI: 1.028-1.155) but not non-diabetes participants. Among diabetes participants, the association was non-linear (p for non-linearity test: 0.023) and was non-significant when the HbEO level was higher than 310.24 pmol/g Hb. In conclusion, EO may increase the mortality risk among diabetes population through aggravating the diabetes-mediated metabolic disorders. The non-linear association found for the first time may reflect the complex physiological effects of the enzymes that contribute to EO endogenous formation or metabolism.

Suicide Risk and Associated Factors in Parkinson Disease: A Nationwide Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Although increased mortality in patients with Parkinson disease (PD) is well documented, studies on suicide-related mortality have yielded conflicting results. Moreover, the impact of comorbidities, socioeconomic factors and health behaviours as potential risk factors for suicide remains underinvestigated. This study aimed to investigate suicide mortality risk in patients with PD and comprehensively elucidate the association between comorbidities, socioeconomic factors, health behaviours and suicide in PD.

METHODS

This nationwide population-based cohort study used Korean National Health Insurance Service data from 2009, with a longitudinal follow-up until 31 December 2021. This study included 2,732,294 (PD, n = 4132; without PD, n = 2,728,162) individuals. PD was defined by ICD-10 code (G20) and registration code (V124). Comorbidities were identified using medical history, ICD-10 codes, laboratory data and prescribed medications. Health behaviours were obtained from a self-reported National Health Screening Program questionnaire. The primary outcome was suicide mortality, determined by ICD-10 codes for intentional self-harm (X60-X84).

RESULTS

Suicide mortality in patients with PD increased by 2.71-fold. Males with PD had more than a sevenfold higher risk (HR = 7.34, 95% CI, 5.25-10.26). Low-income patients with PD had an approximately fivefold higher risk compared to high-income non-PD individuals (HR = 5.10, 95% CI, 3.07-8.46). Patients with PD concomitant with depression (HR = 5.00, 95% CI, 3.06-8.16) and alcohol consumption (HR = 3.54, 95% CI, 2.14-5.89) also showed increased suicide risk.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that patients with PD have a higher risk of suicide, particularly males, those with lower income, depression or alcohol consumption.

Assessing the benefit-risk profile of newer glucose-lowering drugs: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized outcome trials

AIM

To comprehensively evaluate the benefits and risks of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP4i), and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) from inception to November 2023 to identify randomized cardiovascular and kidney outcome trials that enrolled adults with type 2 diabetes, heart failure, or chronic kidney disease and compared DPP4i, GLP-1RAs, or SGLT2i to placebo. Twenty-one outcomes (e.g., major adverse cardiovascular events [MACE], stroke, and hospitalization for heart failure [HHF]) were assessed. Data were pooled using population-averaged odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs.

RESULTS

Twenty-six trials enrolling 198 177 participants were included. GLP-1RAs were most effective in lowering the risks of MACE (OR, 0.85, [95% CI, 0.79 to 0.92]) and stroke (0.84 [0.77, 0.91]), but increased the risk of thyroid cancer (1.58 [1.36, 2.50]). SGLT2i showed the greatest benefits in reducing the risk of HHF (0.68 [0.64, 0.73]) and improving composite renal outcomes (0.67 [0.58, 0.77]), but increased the risk of genital infections (3.11 [2.15, 4.50]). DPP4i were associated with a lower risk of certain psychiatric disorders, Parkinson's disease (0.54 [0.32, 0.92]), and amputation (0.70 [0.86, 0.93]), but an increased risk of neuropathy (1.10 [1.02, 1.18]) and pancreatitis (1.63 [1.40, 1.91]). The weighted origami plot suggested that GLP-1RAs were more suitable for reducing macrovascular and microvascular outcomes, while DPP4i might be better for neurodegenerative diseases and cancer concerns.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the distinct benefit-risk profiles, the selection of glucose-lowering drugs should be individualized based on patient characteristics and risk factors.

Associations of Microvascular Risk Factors with Sporadic Vestibular Schwannoma Outcomes Following Stereotactic Radiosurgery

OBJECTIVE

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is increasingly used for small-to-medium-sized sporadic vestibular schwannoma (VS) and is associated with good tumor control and low-risk of adverse radiation-associated events. The exact mechanism of VS tumor control is unknown but may relate to microvascular hyalinization and resultant tumoral ischemia. This study examined associations of microvascular risk factors with outcomes following SRS.

DESIGN

Historical cohort of patients who underwent SRS for sporadic VS from 2000 to 2022.

SETTING

Tertiary academic center.

METHODS

Associations of microvascular risk factors with tumor control and complications were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards regression.

RESULTS

In total 749 patients were studied, 31% with a history of smoking, 38% obesity, 19% hypertension, 8% diabetes, 3% peripheral vascular disease, and 2% history of coronary bypass. Regarding tumor control, no factor was associated with salvage treatment following SRS (n = 42). Hypertension (hazard ratio [HR] 2.81; P = .02) and coronary bypass (HR 6.91; P = .002) were significantly associated with developing facial nerve paresis (n = 22). No significant associations with new facial spasms (n = 53) were identified. Lastly, 191 of 294 patients with serviceable hearing at SRS progressed to nonserviceable hearing at a median 2.0 years (interquartile range: 1.0-5.0). After multivariable adjustment for age and ipsilateral hearing status, the HR for the association of smoking history with time to nonserviceable hearing was 1.46 (95% confidence interval 1.04-2.04; P = .03).

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate that hypertension and history of coronary bypass may be associated with development of facial nerve weakness, while smoking may be associated with accelerated hearing loss in patients undergoing SRS for sporadic VS. These data may help guide patient counseling and inform decision-making regarding treatment.

Long-term health benefit and economic return of time in range (TIR) improvement in individuals with type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Time in range (TIR) is an important metric to measure variability of blood glucose levels. The aim is to quantify the long-term health benefits and economic return associated with improved TIR for individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

METHOD

A Markov model with three states (T2D, T2D with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and death) estimated 20-year medical costs, quality-adjusted life-years (QALY) gained and CVD risk under four TIR scenarios: >85%, 71%-85%, 51%-70% and ≤50%. The T2D population was identified using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, and model parameters were sourced from literature. Costs were estimated from a healthcare sector perspective and standardized to 2021 US dollars. Cost ceilings were determined using three willingness-to-pay (WTP) thresholds: $100 000/QALY, $50 000/QALY and $0/QALY (cost-saving).

RESULTS

Compared to TIR <50%, improving TIR to 51%-70% resulted in a 0.79 QALY increase and 4.91% CVD risk reduction; to 71%-85%, a 0.95 QALY increase and 6.24% CVD risk reduction; to >85%, a 1.18 QALY increase and 8.75% CVD risk reduction. To be cost-effective at $100 000/QALY, annual costs for TIR improvements from <50% to 51%-70%, 71%-85% and >85% should be <$1148, $4200 and $7252, respectively. To be cost-saving, these costs should be <$612, $2816 and $5021.

CONCLUSION

Improving TIR yields significant health benefits. We calculated feasible medical cost allocations for TIR improvements, informing the implementation of interventions like continuous glucose monitoring devices.

Association between diabetes of different durations and hip fracture in middle-aged and older people: a stratified cohort study from CHARLS 2011-2020

BACKGROUND

The effect of the duration of diabetes on hip fracture is inconsistent. The aim of this study was to analyze the association between different durations of diabetes and hip fracture.

METHODS

This cohort study included participants from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) 2011-2020. Diabetes was defined as glycated hemoglobin A1c ≥ 6.5%, fasting blood glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL, random blood glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL, or previous diagnosis of diabetes. Participants were stratified according to diabetes duration, and information was collected on their first hip fracture. The association between diabetes of different durations and hip fracture was assessed using Cox proportional risk models and Kaplan-Meier curves.

RESULTS

A total of 9,927 participants with a mean age of 58.4 ± 8.7 and 54.3% female were included, and 574 participants suffered a hip fracture. Compared with no diabetes, the associations between overall diabetes, newly diagnosed diabetes, diabetes with a duration of < 6 years, and hip fracture were all not significant, all P > 0.05. Known diabetes and diabetes of duration ≥ 6 years significantly increased the risk of hip fracture, with hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of 1.69 (1.19 ~ 2.4), P = 0.003, and 2.2 (1.34 ~ 3.61), P = 0.002.

CONCLUSIONS

Neither newly diagnosed diabetes nor diabetes with a disease duration of < 6 years was associated with hip fracture compared with no diabetes people. When the duration of diabetes is ≥ 6 years, the risk of hip fracture is significantly increased, and appropriate preventive measures are recommended.

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists for people with chronic kidney disease and diabetes

BACKGROUND

Approximately 40% of people with diabetes develop kidney failure and experience an accelerated risk of cardiovascular complications. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are glucose-lowering agents that manage glucose and weight control.

OBJECTIVES

We assessed the benefits and harms of GLP-1 receptor agonists in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetes.

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies was searched to 10 September 2024 through contact with the Information Specialist using search terms relevant to this review. Studies in the Register are identified through searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, conference proceedings, the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) Search Portal, and ClinicalTrials.gov.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled studies were eligible if participants with diabetes and CKD were randomly allocated to a GLP-1 receptor agonist, placebo, standard care or a second glucose-lowering agent. CKD included all stages (from 1 to 5).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Three authors independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias using the risk of bias assessment tool 2. Pooled analyses using summary estimates of effects were obtained using a random-effects model, and results were expressed as risk ratios (RR) and/or hazard ratio (HR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) for dichotomous outcomes and mean difference (MD) and 95% CI for continuous outcomes. The primary outcomes included death (all-cause and cardiovascular), 3- and 4-point major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), kidney failure, composite kidney outcome, and severe hypoglycaemia. The secondary outcomes included non-fatal or fatal myocardial infarction (MI) or stroke, non-fatal peripheral arterial events, heart failure, hospitalisation due to heart failure, estimated glomerular filtration rate or creatinine clearance, doubling of serum creatinine, urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio, albuminuria progression, vascular access outcomes, body weight, body mass index, fatigue, life participation, peritoneal dialysis infection, peritoneal dialysis failure, adverse events, serious adverse events, withdrawal due to adverse events, HbA1c, sudden death, acute MI, ischaemic stroke, and coronary revascularisation. Confidence in the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

MAIN RESULTS

Forty-two studies involving 48,148 participants were included. All studies were conducted on people with type 2 diabetes, and no studies were carried out on children. The median study age was 66 years. The median study follow-up was 26 weeks. Six studies were conducted in people with CKD stages 1-2, 11 studies in people with CKD stages 3-5, one study in people on dialysis, and the remaining studies included people with both CKD stages 1-2 and 3-5. Risks of bias in the included studies for all the primary outcomes in studies that compared GLP-1 receptor agonists to placebo were low in most methodological domains, except one study that was assessed at high risk of bias due to missing outcome data for death (all-cause and cardiovascular). The overall risk of bias for all-cause and cardiovascular death in studies that reported the treatment effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists compared to standard care, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors or sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors were assessed as unclear or at high risk of bias due to deviations from intended interventions or missing data. For GLP-1 receptor agonists compared to insulin or another GLP-1 receptor agonist, the risk of bias for all-cause and cardiovascular death was low or unclear. Compared to placebo, GLP-1 receptor agonists probably reduced the risk of all-cause death (RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.98; I2 = 23%; 8 studies, 17,861 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), but may have little or no effect on cardiovascular death (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.05; I2 = 42%; 7 studies, 17,801 participants; low-certainty evidence). Compared to placebo, GLP-1 receptor agonists probably decreased 3-point MACE (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.73 to 0.98; I² = 65%; 4 studies, 19,825 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), and 4-point MACE compared to placebo (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.89; 1 study, 2,158 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Based on absolute risks of clinical outcomes, it is likely that GLP-1 receptor agonists prevent all-cause death in 52 people with CKD stages 1-2 and 116 in CKD stages 3-5, cardiovascular death in 34 people with CKD stages 1-2 and 71 in CKD stages 3-5, while 95 CKD stages 1-2 and 153 in CKD stages 3-5 might experience a major cardiovascular event for every 1000 people treated over 1 year. Compared to placebo, GLP-1 receptor agonists probably had little or no effect on kidney failure, defined as starting dialysis or kidney transplant (RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.66 to 1.13; I2 = 0%; 3 studies, 4,134 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), or on composite kidney outcomes (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.02; I2 = 0%; 2 studies, 16,849 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Compared to placebo, GLP-1 receptor agonists may have little or no effect on the risk of severe hypoglycaemia (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.54 to 1.25; I2 = 44%; 4 studies, 6,292 participants; low-certainty evidence). The effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists compared to standard care or other hypoglycaemic agents were uncertain. No studies evaluated treatment on risks of fatigue, life participation, amputation or fracture.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

GLP-1 receptor agonists probably reduced all-cause death but may have little or no effect on cardiovascular death in people with CKD and diabetes. GLP-1 receptor agonists probably lower major cardiovascular events, probably have little or no effect on kidney failure and composite kidney outcomes, and may have little or no effect on the risk of severe hypoglycaemia in people with CKD and diabetes.

Stress hyperglycemia ratio and machine learning model for prediction of all-cause mortality in patients undergoing cardiac surgery

BACKGROUND

The stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) was developed to reduce the effects of long-term chronic glycemic factors on stress hyperglycemia levels, which was associated with adverse clinical outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between the postoperative SHR index and all-cause mortality in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

METHODS

Data for this study were extracted from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database. Patients were categorized into four groups based on postoperative SHR index quartiles. The primary outcome was 30-day all-cause mortality, while the secondary outcomes included in-hospital, 90-day and 360-day all-cause mortality. The SHR index was analyzed using quartiles, and Kaplan-Meier curves were generated to compare outcomes across groups. Cox proportional hazards regression and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were employed to assess the relationship between the SHR index and the outcomes. LASSO regression was used for feature selection. Six machine learning algorithms were used to predict in-hospital all-cause mortality and were further extended to predict 360-day all-cause mortality. The SHapley Additive exPlanations method was used for visualizing model characteristics and individual case predictions.

RESULTS

A total of 3,848 participants were included in the study, with a mean age of 68 ± 12 years and female participants comprised 30.6% (1,179). Higher postoperative SHR index levels were associated with an increased risk of in-hospital, 90-day and 360-day all-cause mortality as shown by Kaplan-Meier curves (log-rank P < 0.05). Cox regression analysis revealed that the highest postoperative SHR quartile was associated with a significantly higher risk of mortality at these time points (P < 0.05). RCS analysis demonstrated nonlinear relationships between the postoperative SHR index and all-cause mortality (P for nonlinear < 0.05). The Naive Bayes model achieves the highest area under the curve (AUC) for predicting both in-hospital mortality (0.7936) and 360-day all-cause mortality (0.7410).

CONCLUSION

In patients undergoing cardiac surgery, higher postoperative SHR index levels were significantly associated with increased risk of in-hospital, 90-day and 360-day all-cause mortality. The SHR index may serve as a valid tool for assessing the severity after cardiac surgery and guiding treatment decisions.

Scoping review protocol: The chrononutrition factors in association with glycemic outcomes in adult population

Chrononutrition, which examines the relationship between circadian rhythms and nutrition, has been associated with glycemic outcomes in adults. However, published data on delayed meal timing, increased meal frequency and frequent breakfast skipping have shown inconsistent glycemic outcomes due to variations in methodologies and populations studied. This review presents the scoping review protocol designed to map the evidence on the association between chrononutrition factors and glycemic outcomes in adults. The methodology framework from Arksey and O'Malley will be adapted for this scoping review. Relevant publications will be searched on databases including PubMed, EBSCO Host, ProQuest Central, MEDLINE & Ovid, Scopus and Web of Science. This review focuses on original articles published from January 2014 to 2024, involving participants aged 18 years and older, published in English, and encompassing experimental and observational studies. A comprehensive keyword search strategy will be developed to identify relevant articles. Two reviewers will independently screen the abstracts and titles to determine the eligibility. Subsequently, the full text of potentially eligible articles will be reviewed by additional independent reviewer for final inclusion, with full text screening being verified by two reviewers, and interrater reliability will be conducted. Data from the included articles will be extracted, collated and charted to summarize the relevant methods, outcomes and key findings. This Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist will be used to guide the development of protocol. This scoping review represents a novel approach to summarize the association between chrononutrition factors and glycemic outcomes among adults. We anticipate the findings of the review will provide stakeholder with crucial evidence-based information for development of effective intervention to manage glycemic outcome in adults. This protocol has been prospectively registered in the Open Science Framework (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/PA9BU).

Decline in eGFR and mortality among type II diabetic patients: a 3-year prospective cohort study from Palestine

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic nephropathy is a significant complication of diabetes and a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) globally. This study aimed to assess the decline of renal function and all-cause mortality and identify the contributing risk factors among Palestinian patients with diabetes.

METHODOLOGY

The study employed a prospective cohort design, enrolling 311 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) attending primary health care centers in Palestine. Baseline data were collected in 2018 to determine the prevalence of CKD in patients with T2DM. Subsequently, the patients were followed up for three years to assess renal function and identify significant associated risk factors. The primary outcomes examined were estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

During the three-year follow-up, 37.5% of the patients experienced eGFR decline, averaging 4.2 ml/min/1.73 m² per year. Males showed a significant association with eGFR decline with 5 times higher risk of developing eGFR decline. Hypertensive patients were 2.4 times more likely to experience decline. Regarding all-cause mortality, 14.1% of the patients died, with an incidence rate of 51.3 deaths per 1000 person-years. The risk of all-cause mortality was 5.5 times greater for patients with impaired renal function at baseline and 10.8 times greater for patients who had eGFR decline.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the importance of early detection of CKD in patients with diabetes, prompting more comprehensive management of risk factors related to eGFR decline and mortality. Furthermore, it underscores the need for future research in this patient population, including investigations about other relevant risk factors and the impact of different medications, such as anti-diabetic and antihypertensive medications, on the GFR decline and mortality rate.

The association between stress-induced hyperglycemia ratio and cardiovascular events as well as all-cause mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease and diabetic nephropathy

The stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) is an emerging biomarker used to assess blood glucose levels under acute stress conditions and has been linked to the incidence of adverse clinical outcomes. However, the precise role of SHR in patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly in relation to mortality, remains poorly understood. This study seeks to investigate the clinical value of SHR as a predictive tool for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in these patient groups. This study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning from 1999 to 2018, encompassing 3,507 individuals diagnosed with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) or chronic kidney disease (CKD). The primary endpoints included all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality, with mortality data obtained from the National Death Index (NDI) through December 31, 2019. Participants were categorized into quartiles based on the stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR), and Cox proportional hazards regression models were employed to examine the association between SHR and mortality. Model 1 did not account for any covariates, Model 2 adjusted for age, sex, and race, while Model 3 additionally incorporated adjustments for educational attainment, marital status, body mass index, smoking behavior, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and cardiovascular disease. The study comprised 3,507 patients with a mean age of 60.7 years, of whom 56% were female. The overall incidence of all-cause mortality was 38,000 per 100,000 person-years, while cardiovascular mortality was 11,405 per 100,000 person-years. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that the second quartile of the stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) (Q2) exhibited the lowest all-cause mortality (log-rank P = 0.003). Cox regression analysis indicated that the hazard ratio (HR) for all-cause mortality in Q2 was 0.76 (95% CI: 0.63, 0.92), whereas the HR for Q4 was 1.26 (95% CI: 1.04, 1.52). Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis revealed a J-shaped association between SHR and all-cause mortality, as well as a U-shaped association with cardiovascular mortality. The minimum risk values for SHR were 0.923 for all-cause mortality and 1.026 for cardiovascular mortality. In patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), SHR demonstrated a J-shaped relationship with all-cause mortality and a U-shaped relationship with cardiovascular mortality. Subgroup analyses indicated that the effect of spontaneous hypertension on mortality was consistent across all subgroups. This study highlights a significant association between the stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) and both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) or chronic kidney disease (CKD). SHR may serve as a critical biomarker for prognostic assessment in these populations, enabling clinicians to identify high-risk patients and tailor personalized treatment strategies that enhance patient quality of life and mitigate mortality risk.

Presence of coronary artery disease in adults with newly detected diabetes mellitus

PURPOSE

We aimed to analyze the presence and extent of coronary artery disease in patients with newly detected diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

Clinical health examinations of asymptomatic community-dwelling adults between 2008 and 2018 at a medical center in Taiwan were reviewed. Coronary computed tomography angiography was performed in 444 participants, of which 338, 54, and 52 were categorized as 'without diabetes mellitus', 'newly detected diabetes mellitus', and 'known diabetes mellitus', respectively.

RESULTS

Prevalence of significant coronary artery disease (≥ 50% stenosis) was higher in participants with newly detected diabetes mellitus than in participants without diabetes mellitus (40.7% vs. 20.1%, p < 0.0001). Among those with coronary artery stenosis, the number of coronary vessels with significant obstruction (0.72 vs. 0.42, p = 0.0147) was also higher in participants with newly detected diabetes mellitus. Using multiple logistic regression analysis, new detection of diabetes mellitus was identified as an independent risk factor for significant coronary artery disease (odds ratio: 2.153, 95% confidence interval: 1.112-4.166).

CONCLUSION

Asymptomatic patients with newly detected diabetes mellitus had higher prevalence and greater extent of coronary artery disease than those without diabetes mellitus. More attention should thus be paid to the assessment of coronary artery disease in patients with newly detected diabetes mellitus.

Unveiling inequalities: Racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in diabetes: Findings from the 2007-2020 NHANES data among U.S. adults

Objective

Despite persistent disparities in diabetes prevalence among racial and ethnic minorities, there remains a significant lack of understanding regarding the intersectionality of racial and ethnic groups and socioeconomic status (SES) with diabetes.

Methods

The data came from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES; N = 30,754, mean age = 47.4) using cross-sectional survey cycles from 2007 to 2008 through 2017-2020. Diabetes status was self-reported by physician diagnosis. Sociodemographic factors included racial and ethnic groups and SES. Weighted Poisson models were used to examine the association of racial and ethnic groups and SES with diabetes, stratified by age groups (20-44, 45-64, 65-79), sex, and racial and ethnic groups for SES, separately.

Results

Non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and other adults had a 47 %, 31 %, and 76 % higher prevalence of diabetes than non-Hispanic White adults, while adults from low and middle SES compared to high SES had a 37 % and 22 % higher prevalence of diabetes. Non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and other adults aged 45-64 years had a 45 %, 34 %, and 78 % higher prevalence of diabetes, and low and middle SES had a 57 % and 32 % higher prevalence of diabetes. Similar patterns were observed for adults aged 65-79. Males among non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and other adults and females from low and middle-SES families had a higher prevalence of diabetes.

Conclusion

Minority groups, middle and older-aged adults, males from minority groups, and females from low SES had a greater prevalence of diabetes. Effective interventions should prioritize tailoring efforts to specific minoritized and low SES groups to address diabetes disparities.

Identifying predictors of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist use in hospital among adults with diabetes

AIMS

To identify factors associated with use of novel diabetes medications among patients hospitalized under general internal medicine.

METHODS

We conducted a cohort study of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) hospitalized in Ontario, Canada between 2015 and 2020. We evaluated the patient- and physician-level factors associated with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2) and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP1R) use using a multivariable logistic regression model.

RESULTS

There were 253,152 hospitalizations and 68,126 involved patients who had T2DM. Prior to discharge, 3.7 % (N = 2490) of patients with T2DM received an SGLT2 and 0.2 % (N = 121) received a GLP1R. The strongest predictors for receiving a novel diabetes medication were hemoglobin A1C > 9.0 % (Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.81, 95 % Confidence Interval (CI) 1.28, 2.60) and patients aged 40-60 compared with patients <40 years old (OR = 1.81, 95 % CI 1.33, 2.68). The strongest predictors for not receiving a novel diabetes medication were dementia (OR = 0.47, 95 % CI 0.39, 0.56) and creatinine ≥200 μmol/L (OR = 0.11, 95 % CI 0.08, 0.15). Overall, 46.8 % of patients hospitalized with T2DM not receiving a novel diabetes medication would potentially benefit from an SGLT2 inhibitor.

CONCLUSIONS

Novel diabetes medications were rarely continued or initiated during hospitalization despite a high prevalence of cardiovascular disease, raising the concern for systematic under-utilization after discharge.

Association of oxidative balance score with the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality in younger US adults with diabetes

Oxidative balance score (OBS) is a composite measures that assess the balance between pro-oxidant and antioxidant factors in an individual's diet and lifestyle, with higher scores indicating greater antioxidant exposure. Despite its potential significance, there is a limited body of research exploring the relationship between OBS and all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality specifically in younger patients with diabetes. We aimed to investigate the possible relationship between OBS and all-cause and CVD mortality in younger patients with diabetes. Data for this study were obtained from the 2003-2018 NHANES. This study enrolled 3501 participants. The endpoints were all-cause and CVD mortality, determined by the National Death Index (NDI). OBS, which consists of 16 dietary factors and 4 lifestyle factors, is categorized into pro-oxidants and antioxidants. The OBS was categorized into four quartiles (Q1-Q4). We used multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models to examine the association between continuous and quartile measures of OBS, lifestyle OBS (lifestyle antioxidants such as physical activity, etc., and lifestyle pro-oxidants such as alcohol, smoking, etc.), and dietary OBS (dietary antioxidants such as fiber, β-carotene, riboflavin, etc., and dietary pro-oxidants, such as total fat, etc.) with all-cause and CVD mortality. Additionally, we explored restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis and also performed subgroup analyses and interaction tests. The occurrence of 409 all-cause deaths (11.7%) and 108 CVD-related deaths (3.1%) was recorded during the follow-up period. Our results found that OBS, lifestyle OBS, and dietary OBS were negatively associated with patients' all-cause and CVD mortality. The RCS analysis further validated the association of a linear negative correlation between OBS and all-cause and CVD mortality. The results of our subgroup analyses revealed that the negative association between OBS and CVD mortality may be influenced by alcohol use. In conclusion, results from a nationally representative study of younger American patients with diabetes suggest a negative association between OBS, lifestyle OBS, and dietary OBS and all-cause and CVD mortality. Antioxidant-rich diets and lifestyle improvements are essential for reducing all-cause and CVD mortality in patients.

Heme oxygenase, biliverdin reductase, and bilirubin pathways regulate oxidative stress and insulin resistance: a focus on diabetes and therapeutics

Metabolic and insulin-resistant diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), have become major health issues worldwide. The prevalence of insulin resistance in the general population ranges from 15.5% to 44.6%. Shockingly, the global T2DM population is anticipated to double by 2050 compared with 2021. Prior studies indicate that oxidative stress and inflammation are instrumental in causing insulin resistance and instigating metabolic diseases. Numerous methods and drugs have been designed to combat insulin resistance, including metformin, thiazolidinediones (TZDs), sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP1RA), and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP4i). Bilirubin is an antioxidant with fat-burning actions by binding to the PPARα nuclear receptor transcription factor, improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and reversing metabolic dysfunction. Potential treatment with antioxidants like bilirubin and increasing the enzyme that produces it, heme oxygenase (HMOX), has also gained attention. This review discusses the relationships between bilirubin, HMOX, and insulin sensitivity, how T2DM medications affect HMOX levels and activity, and potentially using bilirubin nanoparticles to treat insulin resistance. We explore the sex differences between these treatments in the HMOX system and how bilirubin levels are affected. We discuss the emerging concept that bilirubin bioconversion to urobilin may have a role in metabolic diseases. This comprehensive review summarizes our understanding of bilirubin functioning as a hormone, discusses the HMOX isoforms and their beneficial mechanisms, analyzes the sex differences that might cause a dichotomy in responses, and examines the potential use of HMOX and bilirubin nanoparticle therapies in treating metabolic diseases.

Exercised gut microbiota improves vascular and metabolic abnormalities in sedentary diabetic mice through gut‒vascular connection

BACKGROUND

Exercise elicits cardiometabolic benefits, reducing the risks of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the vascular and metabolic effects of gut microbiota from exercise-trained donors on sedentary mice with type 2 diabetes and the potential mechanism.

METHODS

Leptin receptor-deficient diabetic (db/db) and nondiabetic (db/m+) mice underwent running treadmill exercise for 8 weeks, during which fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was parallelly performed from exercise-trained to sedentary diabetic (db/db) mice. Endothelial function, glucose homeostasis, physical performance, and vascular signaling of recipient mice were assessed. Vascular and intestinal stresses, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, were investigated. RNA sequencing analysis on mouse aortic and intestinal tissues was performed. Gut microbiota profiles of recipient mice were evaluated by metagenomic sequencing.

RESULTS

Chronic exercise improved vascular and metabolic abnormalities in donor mice. Likewise, FMT from exercised donors retarded body weight gain and slightly improved grip strength and rotarod performance in recipient mice. Exercise-associated FMT enhanced endothelial function in different arteries, suppressed vascular and intestinal stresses, and improved glucose homeostasis in recipient mice, with noted microRNA-181b upregulation in aortas and intestines. Altered gut microbiota profiles and gut-derived factors (e.g., short-chain fatty acids and glucagon-like peptide-1) as well as improved intestinal integrity shall contribute to the cardiometabolic benefits, implying a gut‒vascular connection.

CONCLUSION

This proof-of-concept study indicates that exercised microbiota confers cardiometabolic benefits on sedentary db/db mice, extending the beneficial mechanism of exercise through gut‒vascular communication. The findings open up new therapeutic opportunities for cardiometabolic diseases and shed light on the development of exercise mimetics by targeting the gut microbiota.

Acute Coronary Syndrome in Brazil: Registration of Predisposing Factors and Population Profile in a National Public Reference Cardiological Institute

BACKGROUND

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Knowing the predisposing factors is essential for preventing it.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the etiological and epidemiological characteristics of the population with ACS admitted to an emergency room in the State of São Paulo.

METHODS

The prospective cohort study, based on electronic medical records from a public cardiology institute located in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, describes 5,580 patients hospitalized with ACS between August 2018 and October 2022. The main epidemiological characteristics, the association between confirmed ACS and risk scores, and adverse events during hospitalization and in the 30-day follow-up after hospital discharge were evaluated. The significance level was set at 5%.

RESULTS

The main factors associated with ACS were hypertension (80.38%), obesity or overweight (72.47%), and previous coronary artery disease (CAD) (59.11%). In the GRACE score, 65.10% were considered low risk, while 81.34% in the TIMI and 71.16% in the HEART were identified as moderate risk. Catheterization represented 84.93% of the diagnostic methods. Clinical treatment was the strategy adopted in 46.47% of the cases. In the 30-day evolution, 3.10% presented major bleeding, 7.86% infarction/reinfarction, 5.55% stroke, and 2.53% evolved to death.

CONCLUSION

The results of the largest Brazilian ACS registry to date highlight the impact of potentially modifiable risk factors on the occurrence of ischemic events in the local population. The findings may contribute to the development of public policies aimed at preventing and controlling the burden of ischemic disease in the country.

Comparative study of autonomic function in diabetics and yoga practitioners using Ewing's battery

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels. It significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and autonomic neuropathy. Yoga has been shown to improve autonomic function and glycemic control in diabetic patients.

Objective

To compare the autonomic nervous system (ANS) function between diabetic patients and regular yoga practitioners using Ewing's battery tests.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 270 participants, divided into two groups: 135 diabetics (Group I) and 135 yoga practitioners (Group II). Participants' height, weight, and BMI were measured. ANS function was assessed using Ewing's battery tests, which included heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) responses to various stimuli. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with significance set at P ≤ 0.05.

Results

Diabetic participants showed lower HR responses to standing from a supine posture, the Valsalva maneuver, and slow deep breathing, indicating impaired parasympathetic function. They also exhibited higher BP responses to the cold pressor test, sustained handgrip, and standing, reflecting sympathetic overactivity. In contrast, yoga practitioners demonstrated better autonomic function with higher HR responses and lower BP responses in these tests. The findings suggest that yoga promotes parasympathetic dominance and reduces sympathetic overactivity.

Conclusion

Regular yoga practice significantly improves autonomic function in individuals, including those with diabetes. These results support the incorporation of yoga as a complementary therapy in diabetes management to enhance cardiovascular health and reduce autonomic dysfunction.

Effects of postprandial exercise timing on blood glucose and fluctuations in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess how moderate-intensity aerobic exercise performed 45 minutes and 90 minutes after a meal affects blood glucose levels and fluctuations in individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

Twenty-two patients with T2DM, who were solely receiving oral hypoglycemic medication, were enrolled and divided randomly into two categories: those exercising 45 minutes after a meal (45-minute postprandial exercise group) and those exercising 90 minutes post-meal (90-minute postprandial exercise group). Both groups engaged in a 30-minute session of moderate-intensity aerobic stationary bike exercise following breakfast. This aerobic exercise regimen consisted of two stages, with the groups switching exercise timings after the initial phase. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was utilized to evaluate the blood glucose levels and fluctuations in the participants.

RESULTS

After breakfast, both overall daily blood glucose levels and the area under the curve for blood glucose following breakfast were reduced in the 45-minute postprandial exercise group compared to the 90-minute postprandial exercise group. The 45-minute postprandial exercise group demonstrated greater time spent within the target glucose range and less time above the target range than the 90-minute postprandial exercise group. Additionally, measures such as standard deviation, mean amplitude of glycemic excursions, largest amplitude of glycemic excursions, and postprandial glucose excursion for breakfast, peak postprandial glucose levels, and duration of elevated glucose levels were all lower in the 45-minute postprandial exercise group compared to the 90-minute postprandial exercise group.

CONCLUSIONS

Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise lasting 45 minutes after meals was found to be more efficient in decreasing blood glucose levels and minimizing fluctuations compared to exercising 90 minutes after meals in patients with T2DM. Additionally, it notably reduced the peak in blood glucose levels after meals.

Use of, time to, and type of first add-on anti-hyperglycaemic therapy to metformin in Australia, 2018-2022

AIMS

The aim of this study was to examine contemporary trends in the use of, time to, and type of first add-on anti-hyperglycaemic therapy to metformin in Australia.

METHODS

We used the dispensing records of a 10% random sample of Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) eligible people. We included people aged 40 years and older initiating metformin from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2020. Our primary outcome was first add-on anti-hyperglycaemic medicine within 2 years of metformin initiation. We analysed time to dispensing of first add-on therapy. All analyses were stratified by metformin initiation year.

RESULTS

Overall, 38 747 people aged 40 years and older initiated metformin between 2018 and 2020. Approximately one-third (n = 12 946) of people received add-on therapy with the proportion increasing slightly by year of metformin initiation (32.3% in 2018 to 34.8% in 2020). Amongst people with add-on therapy following metformin initiation, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) use increased from 28.8% (2018) to 35.0% (2020), and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) increased from 3.0% to 9.6%, respectively. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors and sulfonylureas as first add-on therapy decreased and insulin remained stable. One-third of people with add-on therapy initiated the therapy on the same day metformin was initiated, i.e. initial combination therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Amongst people initiating metformin from 2018 to 2020, there was an increasing proportion of SGLT2i and GLP-1 RA being used as first add-on therapy. However, the overall prevalence of add-on therapy was low. Advocacy to promote add-on therapy with cardiorenal beneficial medicines is critical to reduce type 2 diabetes morbidity and mortality.

"Hyperglycemic Memory": Observational Evidence to Experimental Inference

Several epidemiological studies have appreciated the impact of "duration" and "level" of hyperglycemia on the initiation and development of chronic complications of diabetes. However, glycemic profiles could not fully explain the presence/absence and severity of diabetic complications. Genetic issues and concepts of "hyperglycemic memory" have been introduced as additional influential factors involved in the pathobiology of late complications of diabetes. In the extended phase of significant diabetes randomized, controlled clinical trials, including DCCT/EDIC and UKPDS, studies have concluded that the quality of glycemic or metabolic control at the early time around the diabetes onset could maintain its protective or detrimental impact throughout the following diabetes course. There is no reliable indication of the mechanism by which the transient exposure to a given glucose concentration level could evoke a consistent cellular response at target tissues at the molecular levels. Some biological phenomena, such as the production and the concentration of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and protein kinase C (PKC) pathway activations, epigenetic changes, and finally, the miRNAs-mediated pathways, may be accountable for the development of hyperglycemic memory. This work summarizes evidence from previous experiments that may substantiate the hyperglycemic memory soundness by its justification in molecular terms.

The Influence of Diabetes on Thrombotic Profiles and Outcomes on Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease

BACKGROUND

Elevated glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is associated with vascular complications, including arterial thrombosis postrevascularization. However, the objective relationship between levels of HbA1c and coagulation profiles has not been established. This study aims to determine the association between specific coagulation parameters and variations in HbA1c in patients undergoing lower extremity revascularization.

METHODS

Patients with peripheral artery disease undergoing revascularization were prospectively evaluated between December 2020 and July 2023. Patients were categorized based on their HbA1c levels, and their thromboelastography with platelet mapping (TEG-PM) results were compared at baseline, postoperative day 1, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months. The parameters included Maximum Amplitude (MA) with both adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and arachidonic acid (AA), as well as ADP and AA percent aggregation indicating clot strength. The study further assessed the differences in these parameters between groups with varying HbA1c levels through the use of unpaired Student's t-test for pairwise analysis and Mann-Whitney U tests.

RESULTS

Among 830 samples, those with HbA1c above 6.5 demonstrated a significant increase in ADP MA (52.6 vs. 43.5, P < 0.01), AA MA (36.6 vs. 29.65, P < 0.05), clot strength without platelets activator F MA (13.10 vs. 10.80, P < 0.01), and heparin-neutralized uninhibited clot strength from thrombin activation heparinized kaolin with heparinase MA (61.10 vs. 57.70, P < 0.01) values at baseline. Postoperatively, patients with HbA1c levels greater than 6.5 had higher median functional fibrinogen citrated functional fibrinogen levels (40.95 vs. 371.35, P < 0.05) and higher formation of fibrin in response to stimulation of thrombin by tissue factor citrated functional fibrinogen MA values (22.90 vs. 20.40, P < 0.05) when measured within 36 hrs of intervention, with these trends staying consistent during the 1-month follow-up visit. The trend analysis revealed a progressive increase in ADP MA values with rising HbA1c values, indicating a unit increase in the thrombotic risk relationship. Regression analysis showed a positive relationship between HbA1c and both ADP MA (a 2.261-unit increase for each unit increase in HbA1c) and AA MA. The R-square values indicate that HbA1c only explains a small percentage of the variance in these parameters, suggesting the confounding influence of other factors contributing to thrombosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated HbA1c levels appear to be associated with prothrombotic tendencies in clot dynamics as measured by thromboelastography with platelet mapping, particularly in parameters related to platelet function. HbA1c explains a limited proportion of the variability in these measures, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to evaluating clotting profiles in patients. This study lays the groundwork for further investigation into personalized antithrombotic strategies for patients with varying HbA1c levels.

Association of serum uric acid to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with diabetes or prediabetes: a prospective cohort study

Background and aims

The serum uric acid (UA) to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio (UHR) is a novel biomarker that indicates inflammation and metabolic disorders. Also, it has been shown that UHR correlates with the risk of cardiovascular disease. Despite this, limited research exists on its prognostic significance. This study aimed to explore the association of UHR with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with diabetes or prediabetes.

Methods

This cohort study included 18,804 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2018 with diabetes or prediabetes aged 20 years or older, followed until December 31, 2019. Patients with diabetes or prediabetes were grouped according to quartiles of UHR, which was calculated as serum UA (mg/dL)/HDL-C (mg/dL). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models, restricted cubic spline analysis, and threshold effects were performed to assess the association between baseline UHR and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were also conducted.

Results

During a median follow-up of 80 months, a total of 2,748 (14.61%) deaths occurred, including 869 (4.63%) cardiovascular deaths. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that the highest quartile of UHR had the highest mortality rates. Multivariable Cox regression analysis indicated that individuals in the highest quartile of UHR had a significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality (HR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.07-1.45) and cardiovascular mortality (HR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.19-2.04) compared to those in the second quartile. A J-shaped association between UHR and both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality was observed, with threshold points of 13.73% and 9.39%, respectively. Specifically, when UHR was above the respective thresholds, the HRs of a 10% increment of UHR for all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality were 1.45 (95% CI: 1.31-1.61) and 1.38 (95% CI: 1.20-1.60). However, UHR below the threshold did not significantly correlate with mortality. Furthermore, subgroup analyses showed that the correlation of UHR with all-cause mortality was significantly modified by sex and age, with a persistent positive correlation observed in women and those aged < 60.

Conclusion

Higher UHR was correlated with increased all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with diabetes or prediabetes.

Cardiovascular Health Score and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in the Million Veteran Program

Importance

The American Heart Association proposed Life's Essential 8 (LE8) as an enhanced measurement tool for cardiovascular health.

Objective

To examine the association of LE8 with risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) incidence and prognosis in veterans.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a prospective cohort study of US veterans enrolled in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Million Veteran Program (MVP) between 2011 and 2022. Data were analyzed from 2023 to 2024.

Exposure

LE8 score ranged from 0 to 100, with higher score indicating better cardiovascular health.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was total ASCVD incidence in veterans without baseline ASCVD, and the secondary outcome was incidence of a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) among veterans with and without ASCVD at baseline.

Results

A total of 413 052 veterans (mean [SD] age, 65.8 [12.1] years; 378 162 [91.6%] male) were included. Based on 1.7 million person-years of follow-up of 279 868 veterans without any ASCVD at baseline, 45 067 veterans had an ASCVD event during follow-up. Total LE8 score and each component LE8 factor score was associated with incident ASCVD in an inverse, linear, dose-response manner. For veterans without prior ASCVD, those with an LE8 score between 80 and 100 had lower risk of ASCVD compared with those with an LE8 score of 0 to 49 (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.36 [95% CI, 0.35-0.38]). Similarly, risk of MACE was significantly lower among veterans with an LE8 score of 80 to 100 regardless of baseline ASCVD status (with ASCVD: aHR, 0.52 [95% CI, 0.48-0.56]; without ASCVD: aHR, 0.14 [95% CI, 0.13-0.15]) compared with those with ASCVD and an LE8 score of 0 to 49.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of US veterans, higher LE8 scores were associated with significantly lower ASCVD incidence risk and lower likelihood of developing adverse cardiovascular events regardless of ASCVD status at baseline. These results support the utility of LE8 for health promotion and ASCVD prevention.

Association of Glycemic Control With Right Ventricular Function Assessed by Two-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking and Three-Dimensional Echocardiography in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

Right ventricular (RV) involvement has been reported in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The relationship between glycemic control and RV function remains unknown. We aimed to investigate the association between glycemic control and RV function assessed by two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography and three-dimensional echocardiography in T2DM individuals.

METHODS

This study prospectively enrolled 207 patients with T2DM and 84 individuals with normal glucose metabolism. The T2DM patients were divided into 2 subgroups according to glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level: controlled (HbA1c < 7.0%, n = 91) and uncontrolled subgroup (HbA1c ≥ 7.0%, n = 116). Right venticular free wall longitudinal strain (RVFWLS) was acquired by two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography, and RV volumes and RV ejection fraction (RVEF) were assessed using three-dimensional echocardiography . Right ventricular coupling to pulmonary circulation was defined as the ratio of RVFWLS/pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP).

RESULTS

Controlled and uncontrolled T2DM subgroups had impaired RV function as reflected by reduced RVFWLS and RVEF compared to the normal glucose metabolism group. The reduction in RVFWLS was more pronounced in the uncontrolled subgroup than in the controlled subgroup (P < .001), whereas no significant difference was found in RVEF between these 2 T2DM subgroups. Higher PASP and lower RVFWLS/PASP ratio were also noted in uncontrolled T2DM patients. Additionally, the incidence of RV dysfunction was significantly higher in the uncontrolled T2DM patients than in the controlled subgroup (43.1% vs 17.6%, P < .001). After adjustment for potential clinical confounders, PASP, and left ventricular parameters, HbA1c level was independently associated with RVFWLS (β = 0.290, P = .003) and RVFWLS/PASP ratio (β = 0.028, P = .006).

CONCLUSIONS

Subclinical RV myocardial dysfunction is present in T2DM patients and is more pronounced in patients with uncontrolled blood glucose. HbA1c level is independently associated with subclinical RV myocardial dysfunction, providing further insight into a possible link between poor glycemic control and diabetic cardiomyopathy.

Availability and affordability of antidiabetic medicines in Herat of Afghanistan in 2023

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the availability, affordability, and accessibility of antidiabetic medications in Herat, Afghanistan, in 2023.

Methods

Adhering to WHO and HAI guidelines, a systematic survey approach was utilized to collect data on the pricing, availability, and affordability of commonly prescribed antidiabetic medications. Data collection spanned a month and involved four investigators using a standardized template. Data on the most-sold generic (MSG) and least expensive generic (LPG) options were compiled from pharmacies, and descriptive statistics were employed.

Results

The study reveals a heavy reliance on imported medications, mainly from Pakistan, with limited local production. Availability in pharmacies exhibited notable disparities, with essential medications sometimes lacking consistency. The financial analysis identified affordability challenges, particularly for certain Iranian and Pakistani brands. Notably, Metformin 500 mg emerged as the most consumed medication. Sitagliptin 50 mg had the highest average consumption when considering Pakistani brands, whereas Insulin Regular topped the list for Iranian brands.

Conclusions

The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive strategies to address diabetic patients' challenges in Herat, Afghanistan. Strengthening the pharmaceutical supply chain, bolstering local production, and implementing measures to enhance medication affordability are crucial for improving diabetic care and advancing public health in the region.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-024-01444-0.

Estimating Recent US Limb Loss Prevalence and Updating Future Projections

Objective

To estimate limb loss prevalence in the United States (US) by etiology and anatomical position and the trends of limb loss over 40 years.

Design

We used the National Inpatient Sample, Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project to estimate current and future limb loss prevalence in the US and by anatomical location. Prevalence estimates were based on the incidence and duration of the disease. Lastly, we use a linear regression to estimate future projections of limb loss prevalence.

Setting

Open-sourced data from the National Inpatient Sample, Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project.

Participants

Persons who have undergone an amputation at a community hospital participating in the National Inpatient Sample database. We define community hospitals as all nonfederal, short-term, general, and other specialty hospitals, excluding hospital units of institutions.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

The current prevalence of limb loss.

Results

The total estimated number of people living with limb loss in the US was 2,309,000. In total, ∼91% of persons underwent lower extremity amputation, while only 9.2% underwent upper extremity amputations. By 2060, we projected a 145% increase in people living with limb loss in the US. Most of these are caused by vascular disease and diabetes which are projected to increase by 36% and 67%, respectively, by 2060. The number of people living with limb loss will double by 2050, while the number of people with diabetes will double by 2040.

Conclusions

Our updated estimate for the prevalence of limb loss in 2019 was comparable to previous projections for 2020; however, our projected estimates are markedly increased relative to those of other studies. Our increased values are caused by the increased prevalence of diabetes and peripheral vascular diseases resulting in amputation. These results highlight the importance of research directed at both limb preservation and amputation optimization and the allocation of health care resources.

Lipids and apolipoproteins and the risk of vascular disease and mortality outcomes in women and men with type 2 diabetes in the ADVANCE study

AIM

Whether apolipoproteins (apolipoprotein A1, apolipoprotein B, apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A1 [ApoB/ApoA1] ratio) or very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol are better risk predictors than established lipid risk markers, and whether there are sex differences, is uncertain, both in general populations and in patients with diabetes. The aim of this study was to assess the association between established risk markers, apolipoproteins and the risk of macro- and microvascular disease and death in a large study of women and men with diabetes and to assess the potential sex differences in the associations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Established lipid risk markers were studied in 11 140 individuals with type 2 diabetes from the Action in Diabetes and Vascular Disease: Preterax and Diamicron Modified-Release Controlled Evaluation (ADVANCE) trial, and apolipoproteins (A1, B, ApoB/ApoA1 ratio) and VLDL cholesterol from nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) lipid analyses in biobanked samples from 3586 individuals included in the ADVANCE case-cohort study (ADVANCE CC). Primary outcomes were major macro- and microvascular events and death. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for confounders were used to quantify the associations (hazard ratio [HR] and 95% confidence intervals [CIs]) between established lipid risk markers and apolipoproteins with study outcomes. To address potential effect modification by sex, we investigated the association between the lipid risk markers and outcomes in subgroup analyses by sex.

RESULTS

There was a lower risk of macrovascular complications for high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (HR [95%CI] 0.88 [0.82-0.95]), a higher risk for total cholesterol (1.10 [1.04-1.17]), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (1.15 [1.08-1.22]), non-HDL cholesterol (1.13 [1.07-1.20]) and the total cholesterol/HDL ratio (1.20 [1.14-1.27]) but no significant associations with triglycerides from ADVANCE. There was a higher risk of macrovascular complications for the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio (1.13 [1.03-1.24]) from the ADVANCE CC. Only the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio (1.19 [1.06-1.34]), but none of the established lipid risk markers, was associated with a higher risk of microvascular complications. There were no statistically significant sex differences for any of the established lipid risk markers or apolipoproteins with any outcome. Using C-statistics and net reclassification improvement (NRI) did not detect significant improvement in predicting all outcomes by adding lipids or apolipoproteins to the models with confounding factors only.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

All established lipid risk markers, except triglycerides, were predictors of macrovascular complications, but not microvascular complications, in patients with type 2 diabetes. The ApoB/ApoA1 ratio was associated with major macro- and microvascular complications, but there was no evidence that apolipoproteins are better than established lipid risk markers in predicting cardiovascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Mediated Weight Loss and Diabetes Mellitus Benefits: A Narrative Review

Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are chronic diseases with increasing prevalence, underscoring the urgent need for effective treatment and management strategies. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have emerged as an essential class of drugs for managing both obesity and T2DM, offering additional benefits for cardiovascular and kidney health. GLP-1 RAs work by targeting GLP-1 receptors, mimicking the effects of the natural hormone GLP-1 to regulate blood glucose levels, promote weight loss, and provide potential benefits for cardiovascular health. This narrative review evaluates the mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, and broader roles of GLP-1 RAs in promoting weight loss and glycemic control. In addition, the present investigation explores recent clinical studies demonstrating the effectiveness of GLP-1 RAs in diabetic and nondiabetic populations, highlighting their potential in addressing obesity even in those without T2DM and describing probable benefits to cardiovascular health. Finally, our investigation outlines the importance of future research to further define the potential benefits of GLP-1 RAs.

Long-term prognostic effect of serum albumin concentration in diabetic patients with stable coronary artery disease: A multicenter cohort study

BACKGROUND

Diabetes and insulin resistance alter the physiological state of serum albumin (SA), which is a prognostic marker for stable coronary artery disease (CAD). However, whether the SA concentration is associated with long-term cardiovascular (CV) outcomes in diabetic patients with stable CAD remains unclear.

METHODS

In total, 1148 patients were retrospectively identified from a nationwide multicenter cohort study on patients with stable CAD. They were categorized into four groups according to their diabetes mellitus (DM) status and SA concentration (cutoff: 4 g/dL).

RESULTS

The patients' mean age was 62.5 years, and 83.5% were male. Of the total patients, 405 were included in group 1 (SA ≥4/non-DM), 322 in group 2 (SA <4/non-DM), 201 in group 3 (SA ≥4/DM), and 220 in group 4 (SA <4/DM). Group 4 had the oldest age and a higher prevalence of prior myocardial infarction and stroke. During the median 4.5-year follow-up (interquartile range: 1.5-6.7 years), the highest and lowest survival rates in terms of all-cause and CV mortality were found in groups 1 and 4, respectively. However, no prognostic differences were noted in nonfatal stroke and myocardial infarction among the groups. The data were consistent after covariate adjustment. Using group 1 as the reference, hazard ratio (HRs) (95% CIs) for all-cause mortality in groups 2, 3, and 4 were 3.64 (1.22-10.83), 3.26 (0.95-11.33), and 5.74 (1.92-16.95), respectively, and those for CV mortality were 2.8 (0.57-13.67), 2.62 (0.40-17.28), and 6.15 (1.32-28.58), respectively.

CONCLUSION

In diabetic patients with stable CAD, a low SA concentration (<4 g/dL) was associated with increased long-term mortality regardless of all-cause or CV reasons but not nonfatal CV events.

Impact of haemoglobinA1c on platelet reactivity and cardiovascular outcomes in patients undergoing drug-eluting stent implantation

This study investigates the impact of hemoglobin A1c on platelet reactivity and cardiovascular outcomes in patients undergoing drug-eluting stent implantation. HbA1c levels were categorized into 3 groups: < 6.5%, 6.5-8.5%, and > 8.5%. ROC (resistance to clopidogrel) and ROA (resistance to aspirin) were calculated. The primary endpoint was a composite of MACE, including all-cause mortality, nonfatal MI, and ischemia-driven revascularization. The secondary endpoints comprised individual MACE components. The incidence of ROC was 9.3% (151 of 1621), whereas that of ROA was 16.5% (268 of 1621). The ROC for each of the 3 groups significantly increased with increasing HbA1c levels [4.3% vs. 7.1% vs. 10.1%, p = 0.006]; however, the ROA did not [16.4% vs. 17.7% vs. 14.3%, P = 0.694]. HbA1c > 8.5 was significantly associated with ROC (3.356 [1.231, 9.234], p = 0.009). Compared with the HbA1c < 6.5 subgroup, the HbA1c˃8.5 subgroup was significantly associated with MACE (3.142 [2.346, 4.206], < 0.001), nonfatal MI (2.297 [1.275, 4.137], P = 0.006) and ischemia-driven revascularization (3.845 [2.082, 7.101], p < 0.001), but not all-cause mortality (2.371 [0.551, 10.190], 0.246) at the 36-month follow-up. HbA1c levels were positively correlated with ROC, but the adverse cardiovascular events were driven by elevated HbA1c, constituting an argument to intensify glycemic control in subjects with diabetes after intracoronary stent placement.