Role of bisphosphonates in hypertrophic osteoarthropathy: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The role of bisphosphonates (BP) in hypertrophic osteoarthropathy (HPOA) is unclear. We presented a case of primary HPOA and performed a systematic review of literature on the effect of BP on treatment response in primary and secondary HPOA.

METHODS

The study was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022343786). We performed a PubMed literature search that restricted to the English language. We included patients diagnosed with primary or secondary HPOA who received BP. The primary endpoint assessed was the effectiveness of BP on response to pain or arthritis. Secondary outcomes included timing, degree, and duration of response, comparison to other HPOA therapies, impact of BP on radiology, bone scan, bone turnover markers, and adverse effects of BP.

RESULTS

Literature search retrieved only case reports. Forty-five patients (21 primary, 24 secondary HPOA) had received BP. Majority(88.3%) experienced improvement in pain or arthritis. Response was gradual for primary HPOA and within a median of 3 to 7 days for secondary HPOA after treatment with BP. Most patients had reduced bone scan uptake after BP. When other HPOA therapies were tried, half responded to BP after not having previously responded to other therapies, while a third received the treatments concurrently, making it difficult to attribute treatment response to a drug. Reporting of other secondary outcomes was very heterogenous and qualitative to draw conclusions. No major adverse effects have been reported for BP in HPOA.

CONCLUSION

Bisphosphonates provide an effective and safe treatment option for primary and secondary HPOA. However, there is a lack of randomized controlled trials.

Advancements in medical treatment for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors: A beacon of hope

This editorial highlights the remarkable advancements in medical treatment strategies for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pan-NETs), emphasizing tailored approaches for specific subtypes. Cytoreductive surgery and somatostatin analogs (SSAs) play pivotal roles in managing tumors, while palliative options such as molecular targeted therapy, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy, and chemotherapy are reserved for SSA-refractory patients. Gastrinomas, insulinomas, glucagonomas, carcinoid tumors and VIPomas necessitate distinct thera-peutic strategies. Understanding the genetic basis of pan-NETs and exploring immunotherapies could lead to promising avenues for future research. This review underscores the evolving landscape of pan-NET treatment, offering renewed hope and improved outcomes for patients facing this complex disease.

Bone mineral density, turnover, and microarchitecture assessed by second-generation high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography in patients with Sheehan's syndrome

Sheehan's syndrome (SS) is a rare but well-characterized cause of hypopituitarism. Data on skeletal health is limited and on microarchitecture is lacking in SS patients.

PURPOSE

We aimed to explore skeletal health in SS with bone mineral density (BMD), turnover, and microarchitecture.

METHODS

Thirty-five patients with SS on stable replacement therapy for respective hormone deficiencies and 35 age- and BMI-matched controls were recruited. Hormonal profile and bone turnover markers (BTMs) were measured using electrochemiluminescence assay. Areal BMD and trabecular bone score were evaluated using DXA. Bone microarchitecture was assessed using a second-generation high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 45.5 ± 9.3 years with a lag of 8.3 ± 7.2 years prior to diagnosis. Patients were on glucocorticoid (94%), levothyroxine (94%), and estrogen-progestin replacement (58%). None had received prior growth hormone (GH) replacement. BTMs (P1NP and CTX) were not significantly different between patients and controls. Osteoporosis (26% vs. 16%, p = 0.01) and osteopenia (52% vs. 39%, p = 0.007) at the lumbar spine and femoral neck (osteoporosis, 23% vs. 10%, p = 0.001; osteopenia, 58% vs. 29%, p = 0.001) were present in greater proportion in SS patients than matched controls. Bone microarchitecture analysis revealed significantly lower cortical volumetric BMD (vBMD) (p = 0.02) at the tibia, with relative preservation of the other parameters.

CONCLUSION

Low areal BMD (aBMD) is highly prevalent in SS as compared to age- and BMI-matched controls. However, there were no significant differences in bone microarchitectural measurements, except for tibial cortical vBMD, which was lower in adequately treated SS patients.

Effect of daily zinc supplementation for 12 weeks on serum thyroid auto-antibody levels in children and adolescents with autoimmune thyroiditis - a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of daily zinc supplementation for 12 weeks on thyroid auto-antibodies - thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) and thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb), and oxidative stress in children with autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) compared to standard therapy.

METHODS

This open-labeled, parallel, randomized controlled trial was done in a tertiary care teaching institute in south India. Children aged 3-18 years with AITD were randomized to receive 25 mg elemental zinc daily for 12 weeks or standard therapy alone. The change in thyroid function tests (thyroid stimulating hormone, free T3, free T4), thyroid auto-antibody (TPOAb, TgAb) titers, oxidative stress markers (glutathione peroxidase, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and total antioxidant capacity) were compared.

RESULTS

Forty children, 20 in each arm, were recruited in the study. We observed a female-to-male ratio of 7:1. Median duration of disease was 2 (0.25, 4.25) years. A total of 37 (92.5 %) children were hypothyroid, two hyperthyroid, and one euthyroid at enrolment. A total of 13 children (32.5 %) had associated co-morbidities, most commonly type 1 diabetes mellitus and systemic lupus erythematosus, three (7.5 %) each. We did not find any significant change in thyroid function tests, thyroid auto-antibody titers, and oxidative stress markers. However, the requirement of levothyroxine dose was significantly increased in the control arm, compared to the zinc group (p=0.03). Only four (20 %) children had minor adverse effects like nausea, metallic taste, and body ache.

CONCLUSIONS

Zinc supplementation did not have any effect on thyroid auto-antibodies and oxidative stress. Zinc-supplemented children did not require escalation in levothyroxine dose.

Insulin Sensitivity, Islet Cell Function, and Incretin Axis in Pregnant Women With and Without Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Introduction

The aim of this study was to compare insulin sensitivity, islet cell function, and incretin axes in pregnant subjects with GDM and normal healthy controls.

Methods

Pregnant women at 24 to 28 weeks of gestation were subjected to a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Samples for glucose, insulin, glucagon, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) were collected at 0, 30, 60, and 120 min during the OGTT. The Matsuda index (MI) and insulin secretion and sensitivity index-2 (ISSI-2) were assessed. The glucagon suppression index (GSI) was calculated along with the area under the curve (AUC) for glucose, insulin, glucagon, GLP-1, and GIP.

Results

A total of 48 pregnant women (25 GDM and 23 controls) were finally analysed. The MI and ISSI-2 were low in the GDM group [4.31 vs. 5.42; P = 0.04], [1.99 vs. 3.18, P ≤ 0.01] respectively). Total AUCglucagon was higher in the GDM group (7411.7 vs. 6320.1, P = 0.02). GSI30 was significantly lower in the GDM group (-62.6 vs. -24.7, P = 0.03). Fasting GLP-1 levels were low in GDM women (17.3 vs. 22.2, P = 0.04). The total AUCGLP-1 positively correlated with total GSI in the GDM group.

Conclusion

Asian-Indian GDM women have high insulin insensitivity, islet cell dysfunction, and low fasting GLP-1. Incretin axis dysfunction plays a potential role in their islet cell dysfunction.

Male Hypogonadism After Recovery from Acute COVID-19 Infection: A Prospective Observational Study

BACKGROUND

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 can affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG) due to the expression of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the prevalence of hypogonadism and Sertoli cell dysfunction in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) male survivors.

METHOD

Male subjects recovered from acute COVID-19 infection were prospectively observed. The primary outcomes included the proportion of hypogonadism, defined biochemically as serum testosterone<230 ng/dL or CFT of<6.4 ng/mL if the total testosterone is between 230-320 ng/m. Sertoli cell dysfunction was defined as inhibin-B level<54.5 pg/mL. Subjects with hypogonadism were followed up at 12 months to assess the recovery of the HPG axis.

RESULTS

Eighty-three subjects aged≥18 years were evaluated at a median of 120 (±35) days post-recovery. Their mean age was 49.50±12.73 years, and the mean BMI was 26.84±5.62 kg/m2. Low testosterone was detected in 21 (24.71%) and low inhibin-B was detected in 14 (19.71%) out of 71 subjects at 3 months. Subjects with low testosterone were younger, with a mean age of 43.29±12.03 years (P-0.08) and higher BMI (P-0.012). The severity of COVID-19 infection, duration of hospitalization, and other factors were not significantly associated with low testosterone. At 12 months, 18 out of 21 subjects came for follow-up, of which 9 (50%) showed persistently low testosterone, suggestive of hypogonadism.

CONCLUSION

Following COVID-19 infection, testosterone levels recovered over time; however, a significant proportion of subjects had low levels at 12-month follow-up. These findings have long-term implications for the management of COVID-19 subjects.

Effect of Zoledronic Acid in Hepatic Osteodystrophy: A Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Trial

Purpose

Literature on the treatment of pre-transplant hepatic osteodystrophy (HOD) is limited. The general treatment measures and their timing are currently adopted from the literature on postmenopausal osteoporosis. Therefore, we conducted this randomized study to investigate the effect of zoledronic acid (ZA) on HOD.

Methods

We randomized 36 male patients with cirrhosis (Child-Pugh class A and B) into 19 to the ZA arm and 17 to the placebo arm, respectively. Patients in the ZA arm received a single infusion of 4 mg ZA dissolved in 100 mL of normal saline at baseline, while patients in the placebo arm received a similar infusion of normal saline at baseline. The primary outcome of the study was the change in lumbar spine bone mineral density (LS-BMD) at 12 months.

Results

Of 36 patients, 28 completed the study (15 in the ZA arm and 13 in the placebo arm). The mean increase in LS-BMD (g/cm2) in the ZA and placebo arms was 5.11% (3.50) and 0.72% (4.63) [P = 0.008], respectively. The trabecular bone score (TBS) did not improve significantly in either arm. The incidence of vertebral fractures (VFs) was similar in both arms. There was a significant decrease in plasma beta-C-terminal telopeptide (β-CTX) levels in the ZA arm compared to the placebo arm, while the change in plasma levels of procollagen 1 intact N-terminal propeptide (P1NP) was similar in both arms. Six patients (31.6%) in the ZA arm experienced adverse reactions such as fever and myalgia.

Conclusion

ZA improved LS-BMD in male patients with HOD by decreasing bone resorption. However, it may not improve trabecular microarchitecture or prevent morphometric VFs in this population.

Hypothalamic-Pituitary Adrenal Axis Status 3 Months After Recovery From COVID-19 Infection

CONTEXT

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) predominantly involves the lungs, albeit many other organ systems, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, can be affected due to the expression of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) binding receptor. Few studies have reported the involvement of adrenal gland and the HPA axis during the acute phase of COVID-19; however, the data on the long-term effect of COVID-19 on the HPA axis after acute infection is scarce.

OBJECTIVE

To assess and compare the changes in HPA axis in mild, moderate and severe COVID-19 categories at ≥ 3 months after acute infection.

METHODS

A prospective, observational study was conducted to assess the HPA axis status among COVID-19 subjects at least 3 months after recovery from acute infection. The study was conducted from June 2021 to May 2022. Subjects visited the hospital in the fasting state (8.00-9.00am), serum cortisol levels were measured at baseline, 30 and 60 minutes after a 1-μg short Synacthen test (SST).

RESULTS

A total of 66 subjects ≥ 18 years of age were included in the study. The mean age (SD) was 49.13 ± 11.9 years, 45(68.18%) were male and 21 (31.81%) were female subjects. The mean BMI in the study was 25.91 ± 4.26 kg/m2. Seventeen (25.8%) subjects had mild, twelve (18.2%) had moderate and thirty-seven (56.1%) subjects had severe COVID-19 infection. Out of the sixty-six subjects with COVID-19, nine subjects (9/66, 13.63%) had peak serum cortisol < 496.62 nmol/L suggestive of adrenal insufficiency (AI). SST peak serum cortisol levels did not differ significantly across the disease severity [Mild, (628.50 ± 214.65 nmol/L) vs moderate, [603.39 ± 161.95 nmol/L) vs severe, (597.59 ± 163.05 nmol/L), P = 0.617]. Six subjects with AI came for follow-up at 12 months, and all had normal HPA axis.

CONCLUSION

HPA axis is affected in 13.63% (9/66) of subjects at least 3 months after recovery from COVID-19 infection. AI in COVID-19 might be transient and would recover spontaneously. These findings have important implications for the clinical care and long-term follow-up of subjects after COVID-19 infection.

Effect of a single dose of zoledronic acid on bone mineral density and trabecular bone score in Indian postmenopausal osteoporotic women with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus - A prospective cohort pilot study

PURPOSE

The objectives were to study the effect of a single dose of intravenous (IV) zoledronic acid (ZA) on changes in bone mineral density (BMD) (lumbar spine (LS), hip, & distal forearm), trabecular bone score (TBS) and bone turnover markers (BTMs) in postmenopausal osteoporotic women with and without diabetes over 12 months.

METHODS

Patients were divided into two groups: type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (n = 40) and non-DM (n = 40). Both groups received a single dose of 4 mg IV ZA at baseline. The BMD with TBS and BTMs (β-CTX, sclerostin, P1NP) were measured at baseline, six months, and 12 months.

RESULTS

At baseline, BMD in all three sites was similar in both groups. T2DM patients were older and had lower BTMs than non-DM patients. The mean increase in LS-BMD (gram/cm2) at 12 months in T2DM and the non-DM group was 3.6 ± 4.7% and 6.2 ± 4.7 %, respectively (P = 0.01). However, the age adjusted mean difference in LS BMD increment between two groups at one year was - 2.86 % (-5.02% to -0.69%), P = 0.01. There was a comparable change in BMD at other two sites, BTMs, and TBS in both the groups over one year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The gain in the LS-BMD was significantly lower in T2DM group compared to non-DM subjects over 12 months after a single IV infusion of 4 mg ZA. The explanation for this could be low bone turnover in diabetes subjects at baseline.

Thyroid Dysfunction in Patients with and Without Venous Thromboembolism: a Case Control Study

Recent studies report an association between thyroid dysfunction and venous thromboembolism (VTE). Considering the high prevalence of thyroid diseases in India, identification of thyroid dysfunction as a risk factor for VTE will have implications in management. The aim of study was to determine if thyroid dysfunction could be considered as risk factor for unprovoked VTE. The study was conducted on 102 patients with unprovoked VTE and 102 age and gender matched controls in a tertiary care centre. Clinical profile and thyroid function tests (Free T3, Free T4, TSH) including antibody profile (Anti TPO and Anti TG) were compared between two groups. Thyroid disease was identified in 34 cases and 14 controls (33.1% vs. 13.7%, P = 0.001) Out of 34 cases with thyroid dysfunction, 17 had subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) while 6 out of 14 controls had SCH. Both thyroid dysfunction and SCH were found to be associated with unprovoked VTE, as compared with controls; [Odds ratio (OR) = 3.14, 95% CI 1.56-6.33, P = 0.001] and (OR = 3.71; 95% CI 1.4-9.9; P = 0.01) respectively. Thyroid dysfunction was significantly higher among patients with unprovoked VTE. Thyroid dysfunction, SCH were associated with unprovoked VTE.

The Association of Dyslipidemia and Atherogenic Indices With Glycemic Control in Diabetic Dyslipidemia Patients: A Real-World Landscape

BACKGROUND

Dyslipidemia is an important comorbid factor of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) that increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to assess the pattern of dyslipidemia and atherogenic indices and determine its relation with glycemic control.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study enrolled 382 patients with diabetic dyslipidemia. The socio-demographics data, clinical features, and laboratory parameters were collected. The baseline lipid parameters such as total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) were measured. Atherogenic indices such as TC/HDL-C ratio, TG/HDL-C ratio, LDL-C/HDL-C ratio, non-HDL-C/HDL-C and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) [log10 (TG/HDL-C)] were calculated. T2DM patients were classified into three groups based on the degree of glycemic control: Good glycemic control (HbA1C<7%), fair control (HbA1C 7-8%), and poor control (HbA1C>8%).

RESULTS

The population's mean age was 48.60±6.15 years, with 145 (38%) males. We found mixed dyslipidemia as the most prevalent (36.1%) form of dyslipidemia in our patients. The most common pattern in atherogenic indices was AIP (94.2%). HbA1c was positively correlated with duration of diabetes (r=0.253, p<0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, duration of diabetes (>10 years) was significantly associated with poor glycemic control with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.31(95% CI; 1.25-4.24, p=0.007).

CONCLUSION

The present study indicated that neither the pattern of dyslipidemia nor the atherogenic indices were markers of poor glycemic control among South Indian patients attending our tertiary care institute. However, duration of diabetes was significantly associated with poor glycemic control.

Clinical Features of Unrecognized Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Due to 17α-hydroxylase Deficiency Since Adolescence: A Case Report

The majority of patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) present with a deficiency of 21-hydroxylase or 11-beta-hydroxylase, which account for 90% and 7% of cases, respectively. However, CAH due to 17α-hydroxylase deficiency (17OHD) is an extremely rare form of CAH (<1% of all CAH cases) that leads to a deficiency of cortisol and sex steroids, along with features of aldosterone excess. This is a case of a 51-year-old single female who was referred to us for the evaluation of new-onset hypertension and hypokalaemia of one-year duration. She was born out of a second-degree consanguineous marriage and reared as a female. She was diagnosed to have testicular feminization syndrome when she presented with a history of primary amenorrhea, absence of secondary sexual characteristics, and bilateral labial swellings at pubertal age. Subsequently, she underwent gonadectomy at the age of 16. Due to the presence of hypertension, metabolic alkalosis and bilaterally enlarged adrenals on CT scan, 46, XY disorders of sexual development (DSD) was considered. A karyotype confirmed the presence of 46, XY chromosomal sex, and genetic analysis revealed a mutation in the CYP17A1 gene, thus confirming the diagnosis of 17α-hydroxylase deficiency.

Deficiency of the mitochondrial ribosomal subunit, MRPL50, causes autosomal recessive syndromic premature ovarian insufficiency

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a common cause of infertility in women, characterised by amenorrhea and elevated FSH under the age of 40 years. In some cases, POI is syndromic in association with other features such as sensorineural hearing loss in Perrault syndrome. POI is a heterogeneous disease with over 80 causative genes known so far; however, these explain only a minority of cases. Using whole-exome sequencing (WES), we identified a MRPL50 homozygous missense variant (c.335T > A; p.Val112Asp) shared by twin sisters presenting with POI, bilateral high-frequency sensorineural hearing loss, kidney and heart dysfunction. MRPL50 encodes a component of the large subunit of the mitochondrial ribosome. Using quantitative proteomics and western blot analysis on patient fibroblasts, we demonstrated a loss of MRPL50 protein and an associated destabilisation of the large subunit of the mitochondrial ribosome whilst the small subunit was preserved. The mitochondrial ribosome is responsible for the translation of subunits of the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation machinery, and we found patient fibroblasts have a mild but significant decrease in the abundance of mitochondrial complex I. These data support a biochemical phenotype associated with MRPL50 variants. We validated the association of MRPL50 with the clinical phenotype by knockdown/knockout of mRpL50 in Drosophila, which resulted abnormal ovarian development. In conclusion, we have shown that a MRPL50 missense variant destabilises the mitochondrial ribosome, leading to oxidative phosphorylation deficiency and syndromic POI, highlighting the importance of mitochondrial support in ovarian development and function.

Observation of negative terahertz photoconductivity in strongly correlated electron-doped CaMnO3thin film

Electron-doped Ca_0.96Ce_0.04MnO₃(CCMO) possesses a unique band structure and exhibits a giant topological Hall effect contrary to other correlation-driven manganites known for insulator-to-metal transition, magnetoresistance, complex magnetic order, etc. The interaction mechanisms among the fundamental entities and their dynamical evolutions responsible for this unusual topological phase are yet to be understood. Here, we employ time-averaged and sub-picosecond time-resolved terahertz (THz) spectroscopy to explore the low-energy steady-state and ultrafast carrier dynamics, respectively, to unravel the complexity of charge carriers during their transition from a non-equilibrium state to the ground state in CCMO thin film. The THz optical conductivity confirms the presence of dichotomic charge carriers, i.e. heavy and light carriers throughout the temperature range of 15-300 K. A rare observation of both positive and negative photoconductivities along with a sharp crossover between the two resolved to a few picoseconds of illumination confirms the formation of polaron with a lifetime of a few nanoseconds. These optical evidences of dichotomic charge carriers, along with manipulation of the sign of photoconductivity induced by dynamics of related quasiparticles could facilitate a new mechanism for ultrafast optoelectronic switching devices.

Treatment on Nature’s lap: Use of herbal products in the management of hyperglycemia

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is characterized by persistently elevated blood glucose concentration that lead to multisystem complications. There are about 400 medicinal plants cited to have a beneficial effect on DM. We must choose products wisely based on data derived from scientific studies. However, a major obstacle in the amalgamation of herbal medicine in modern medical practices is the lack of clinical data on its safety, efficacy and drug interaction. Trials of these herbal products often underreport the side effects and other crucial intervention steps deviating from the standards set by Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials. Due to a lack of knowledge of the active compounds present in most herbal medicines, product standardization is difficult. Cost-effectiveness is another issue that needs to be kept in mind. In this mini-review, we focus on the anti-hyperglycemic effect of herbal products that are commonly used, along with the concerns stated above.

Thyroid Function Abnormalities and Outcomes in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19 Infection: A Cross-Sectional Study

Thyroid gland can be affected by the COVID-19 infection. The pattern of thyroid function abnormality reported in COVID-19 is variable; in addition, some drugs used in COVID-19 patients like glucocorticoids and heparin can affect the thyroid function tests (TFT). We conducted an observational, cross-sectional study of thyroid function abnormalities with thyroid autoimmune profile in COVID-19 patients with varying severity from November 2020 to June 2021. Serum FT4, FT3, TSH, anti-TPO, and anti-Tg antibodies were measured before the initiation of treatment with steroids and anti-coagulants. A total of 271 COVID-19 patients were included in the study, of which 27 were asymptomatic and remaining 158, 39, and 47 were classified to mild, moderate and severe categories, respectively, according to MoHFW, India criteria. Their mean age was 49±17 years and 64.9% were males. Abnormal TFT was present in 37.2% (101/271) patients. Low FT3, low FT4, and low TSH were present in 21.03%, 15.9% and 4.5% of patients, respectively. Pattern corresponding to sick euthyroid syndrome was the most common. Both mean FT3 and FT3/FT4 ratio decreased with increasing severity of COVID-19 illness (p=0.001). In multivariate analysis, low FT3 was associated with increased risk of mortality (OR 12.36, 95% CI: 1.23-124.19; p=0.033). Thyroid autoantibodies were positive in 58 (27.14%) patients; but it was not associated with any thyroid dysfunction. Thyroid function abnormality is common among COVID-19 patients. Both low FT3 and FT3/FT4 ratio are indicators of disease severity while low FT3 is a prognostic marker of COVID-19 associated mortality.

Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor α and γ Gene Polymorphisms among South Indian Patients with Diabetic Dyslipidaemia

Background

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) α and γ genes play an important role in dyslipidaemia of T2DM.

Aims

To estimate the frequency distribution of PPAR α and γ gene polymorphisms in South Indian T2DM patients with dyslipidaemia compared to healthy controls. Normative frequencies of SNPs were established and compared with data for 1000 genome populations.

Methods

Eligible 382 cases and 336 age and sex-matched controls were enrolled. Six SNPs in PPARα [rs1800206 C>G (Leu162Val), rs4253778 G>C, rs135542 T>C] and PPARγ [rs3856806 (C>T), rs10865710 (C>G), rs1805192 C>G (Pro12Ala)] genes were selected for genotyping.

Results

The allele and gene frequencies did not significantly differ between the diabetic dyslipidaemia cases and healthy controls. However, they were significantly different from that of 1000 genome populations except for rs1800206 C>G (Leu162Val) and rs1805192 C>G (Pro12Ala).

Conclusion

The studied polymorphisms in PPARα and PPARγ genes are not associated with diabetic dyslipidaemia among South Indian patients.

Early Markers of Atherosclerosis in Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

OBJECTIVES

To detect early atherosclerosis changes using flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery, carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), inflammatory markers (hs-CRP, IL-6), and endothelial markers (sICAM and sVCAM).

METHODS

The authors recruited 4 to 18-y-old children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and age- and sex-matched normal children, excluding those with familial hypercholesterolemia, syndromic disorders, and cardiovascular disease. CIMT and FMD were measured in both the groups. Biomarkers hs-CRP, IL-6, sICAM, and sVCAM, were analyzed in the T1DM group.

RESULTS

Forty T1DM children and 40 controls with 27 (67.5%) girls were enrolled in each group. The mean age was 9.68 y. The T1DM group had 4 (10%) obese and 4 (10%) overweight children. Among cases, 9 (22.5%) had diabetes for > 5 y, 24 (60%) required daily insulin between 0.8 and 1.2 IU/kg/d and 26 (65%) had HbA1c > 10 g/dL. The CIMT values were significantly higher in cases (0.69 mm) than in controls (0.59 mm); 29 (72.5%) cases had abnormal combined CIMT values. FMD was lesser in cases than in controls but not significant. The median values of hs-CRP, IL-6, sICAM, sVCAM were 0.81 mg/L, 6.27 pg/mL, 46.33 ng/mL and 668.81 ng/mL, respectively. A significant correlation of IL-6 with CIMT (r = 0.543, p =  < 0.001) and sICAM with FMD (r =  -0.397, p = 0.011) was observed. VCAM was low in the obese and overweight children.

CONCLUSION

Children with type 1 diabetes had higher CIMT than normal children, whereas FMD did not differ. The association between elevated inflammatory markers with high CIMT and low FMD indicates that inflammation plays an essential role in endothelial dysfunction.

Growth hormone and gastrointestinal malignancy: An intriguing link

Growth hormone (GH) excess is associated with several systemic complications, one of which is the increased risk of neoplastic processes particularly of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Among the GI neoplasms, the most reported association is with benign and malignant neoplasms of the colon. In the majority of published literature, an increased incidence of GI neoplasms, both colonic adenomas as well as colorectal carcinoma is reported. However, the studies on colon cancer-specific mortality rate are conflicting with recent studies reporting similar cancer-specific mortality rates in comparison to controls. Many studies have reported an association of colorectal neoplasms with GH levels. Pathogenic mechanisms put forward to explain this association of GH excess and GI neoplasms primarily involve the increased GH-insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) signaling. Both GH and IGF-1 have proliferative, anti-apoptotic, and angiogenic effects on the systemic tissues leading to cellular proliferation. Other contributing factors to the increased risk of GI neoplasms include slow intestinal transit with a redundant large bowel, altered bile acids, deranged local immune response, shared genetic susceptibility factors and hyperinsulinemia. In view of the increased risk association, most guidelines for the care of acromegaly patients recommend an initial screening colonoscopy. Recommendations for further follow-up colonoscopy differ but broadly, the guidelines agree that it depends on the findings at first colonoscopy and state of remission of GH excess. Regarding the concern about the risk of colorectal cancers in patients receiving recombinant GH therapy, most cohort studies do not show an increased risk.

Correlation among Poincare plot and traditional heart rate variability indices in adults with different risk levels of metabolic syndrome: a cross-sectional approach from Southern India

OBJECTIVES

Heart rate variability (HRV) is an important marker of cardiac autonomic modulation. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) can alter cardiac autonomic modulation, raising the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Poincaré plot analysis (PPA) is a robust scatter plot-based depiction of HRV and carries similar information to the traditional HRV measures. However, no prior studies have examined the relationship between PPA and traditional HRV measures among different risk levels of MetS. We evaluated the association between the Poincare plot and traditional heart rate variability indices among adults with different risk levels of MetS.

METHODS

We measured anthropometric data and collected fasting blood samples to diagnose MetS. The MetS risk was assessed in 223 participants based on the number of MetS components and was classified as control (n=64), pre-MetS (n=49), MetS (n=56), and severe MetS (n=54). We calculated the Poincaré plot (PP) and traditional HRV measures from a 5 min HRV recording.

RESULTS

Besides the traditional HRV measures, we found that various HRV indices of PPA showed significant differences among the groups. The severe MetS group had significantly lower S (total HRV), SD1 (short-term HRV), SD2 (long-term HRV), and higher SD2/SD1. The values of S, SD1, SD2, and SD2/SD1 were significantly correlated with most traditional HRV measures.

CONCLUSIONS

We found gradual changes in HRV patterns as lower parasympathetic and higher sympathetic activity alongside the rising number of MetS components. The HRV indices of PPA integrating the benefits of traditional HRV indices distinguish successfully between different risk levels of MetS and control subjects.

Association between metabolic syndrome components and cardiac autonomic modulation in southern Indian adults with pre-metabolic syndrome: hyperglycemia is the major contributing factor

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) involves multi-factorial conditions linked to an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. Pre-metabolic syndrome (pre-MetS) possesses two MetS components but does not meet the MetS diagnostic criteria. Although cardiac autonomic derangements are evident in MetS, there is little information on their status in pre-MetS subjects. In this study, we sought to examine cardiac autonomic functions in pre-MetS and to determine which MetS component is more responsible for impaired cardiac autonomic functions. A total of 182 subjects were recruited and divided into healthy controls (n=89) and pre-MetS subjects (n=93) based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. We performed biochemical profiles on fasting blood samples to detect pre-MetS. Using standardized protocols, we evaluated anthropometric data, body composition, baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), heart rate variability (HRV), and autonomic function tests (AFTs). We further examined these parameters in pre-MetS subjects for each MetS component. Compared to healthy controls, we observed a significant cardiac autonomic dysfunction (CAD) through reduced BRS, lower overall HRV, and altered AFT parameters in pre-MetS subjects, accompanied by markedly varied anthropometric, clinical and biochemical parameters. Furthermore, all examined BRS, HRV, and AFT parameters exhibited an abnormal trend and significant correlation toward hyperglycemia. This study demonstrates CAD in pre-MetS subjects with reduced BRS, lower overall HRV, and altered AFT parameters. Hyperglycemia was considered an independent determinant of alterations in all the examined BRS, HRV, and AFT parameters. Thus, hyperglycemia may contribute to CAD in pre-MetS subjects before progressing to MetS.

Long-term hepatic and cardiac health in patients diagnosed with Sheehan's syndrome

PURPOSE

Sheehan's syndrome (SS) is characterised by chronic pituitary insufficiency following a vascular insult to the pituitary in the peripartum period. There is a lack of substantial evidence on the long-term hepatic and cardiac consequences in these patients, following hormone replacement.

METHODS

Patients with a diagnosis of SS were recruited for the study. Detailed clinico-biochemical and radiological evaluation were performed in all patients (n = 60). Hepatic and cardiac complications were assessed using fibroscan and echocardiography (2D speckle-tracking) respectively, in a subset of patients (n = 29) as well as age-and BMI-matched controls (n = 26). Controlled attenuation parameter (for steatosis) and liver stiffness measurement (for fibrosis) were used to define non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Diastolic cardiac function was evaluated using standard criteria and systolic function by ejection fraction and global longitudinal strain (GLS).

RESULTS

The mean age of the cohort was 42.7 ± 11.6 years. Multiple (≥ 2) hormone deficiencies were present in 68.8% of patients, with hypothyroidism (91.4%), hypocortisolism (88.3%), and growth hormone (GH) deficiency (85.7%) being the most common. At a mean follow-up of 9.8 ± 6.8 years, NAFLD was present in 63% of patients, with 51% having severe steatosis, which was predicted by the presence of GH deficiency and higher body mass index. Though the ejection fraction was similar, increased left ventricular GLS (18.8 vs. 7.7%) was present in a significantly higher number of patients versus controls.

CONCLUSION

NAFLD, especially severe hepatic steatosis, is highly prevalent in SS. Subclinical cardiac systolic dysfunction (impaired GLS) is also more common, but of mild intensity.

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors in COVID-19: Beyond glycemic control

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with a high risk of mortality and complications in patients with diabetes mellitus. Achieving good glycemic control is very important in diabetic patients to reduce complications and mortality due to COVID-19. Recent studies have shown the mortality benefit and anti-inflammatory effects of Dipeptidyl-peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i) in diabetic patients with COVID-19. DPP-4i may have a beneficial role in halting the severity of infection primarily by three routes, namely viral entry inhibition, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects and glycemic control. This has raised the pro-mising hypothesis that DPP-4i might be an optimal strategy for treating COVID-19 in patients with diabetes. This review aims to summarise the possible therapeutic non-glycemic effects of DPP-4i in diabetic patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in the light of available evidence.

ODP166 Autoantibody Positivity and Random C-peptide Profile in Young Ethnic South Indian Population with Diabetes Mellitus

The islet cell autoantibody and beta-cell reserve profiles of young-onset diabetes patients in India are not only heterogeneous but also differ from those in the rest of the world. We sought to assess 3 standard islet cell autoantibodies and random C-peptide in the young ethnic South Indian population with diabetes mellitus attending the Endocrinology OPD of our tertiary care. A total of 190 young diabetes patients aged between 12-30 years were screened for inclusion in the study. Known cases of gestational diabetes and those on diabetogenic drugs were excluded. Additionally, those with clinical features suggestive of pancreatic diabetes or maturity-onset diabetes of young (MODY), or any diabetes-associated syndromic disorders were also excluded. Finally, 138 eligible young diabetes patients were included in the study. The islet cell autoantibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD), insulinoma-associated protein-2 (IA-2), zinc transporter (ZnT8)was measured by sandwich ELISA technique using a human GAD ELISA kit (Euroimmun, Germany), human IA2 ELISA kit (Euroimmun, Germany), human ZnT8 ELISA kit (RSR diagnostics, USA) respectively. Random C-peptide was measured with chemiluminescence immunoassay analyser Advia Centaur XP. Diagnosis of T1DM was based on the requirement of immediate insulin replacement therapy for hyperglycemia with or without acute-onset ketosis with random C-peptide (&lt;0.6 ng/ml) with /without any of islet cell antibodies. Diagnosis of T2DM is based on the history of control of hyperglycemia with oral hypoglycemic agents with documentation of adequate beta-cell reserve (random C-peptide ≥ 0.6 ng/ml) while maintaining euglycemia. Based on the patient characteristics, treatment profile, islet cell antibody status, and beta-cell reserve as assessed by random C-peptide levels, 82 were classified as T1DM, and 48 were classified as T2DM. The rest 8 patients were categorized as unclassified diabetes. GAD antibody was seen in 54(66%) of 82 T1DM patients. Islet cell autoantibody negativity was documented in 21(26%) of T1DM patients. IA-2 and ZnT8 antibodies contributed to an additional 7(8%) to islet cell antibody positivity in T1DM patients. IA-2 antibody positivity was low and random C-peptide was undetectable in many cases of T1DM in our study and is probably due to prolonged duration of diabetes in many T1DM patients. Autoantibody positivity was seen in 4(8%) T2DM patients. These patients need to be followed up for possible evolution of latent autoimmune diabetes in adults. References: Sahoo SK, Zaidi G, Vipin VP, Chapla A, Thomas N, Yu L,et al. Heterogeneity in the aetiology of diabetes mellitus in young adults: A prospective study from north India. Indian J Med Res 2019; 149: 479-88.

Presentation: No date and time listed

Relationship between Insulin Resistances with Autonomic Functions in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in South Indian Population

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) are major health concerns In India. Insulin resistance (IR) itself is a risk factor for CVD. Though it is associated to sympathetic activity this relation may get altered in presence of obesity. Therefore, in the present study we measured the link of IR, with their body mass index (BMI) and the corresponding degree of alteration in various autonomic function tests in T2D patients. It was an observational study conducted in a tertiary care hospital for a period of six months. Eighty-five T2D patients visiting medicine OPD were recruited out of which 17 were normal, 31 were overweight and 31 were obese as per WHO criteria of obesity. Their glucose, insulin, insulin resistance was analyzed in fasting blood samples. Conventional autonomic function tests such as isometric hand-grip test and deep breathing test was digitally recorded. Heart rate variability was recorded as LF: HF ratio. The Rate-pressure product (RPP), the marker of myocardial work stress was calculated from systolic blood pressure and basal heart rate. E: I ratio was calculated from RR interval from ECG tracing. Insulin resistance was positively associated with increased basal heart rate. It was linked to increase LF: HF ratio even after controlling for BMI. Regression analysis showed insulin resistance to be an independent factor for sympathovagal imbalance in T2D patients. The severity of insulin resistance independently predicts degree of deterioration in sympathovagal imbalance as measured in LF: HF ratio in our study which is independent of their degree of obesity.

Consumption of Salt in Patients Suffering from Heart Failure

Heart failure is the deadliest medical emergency condition and considered as a global health priority. In order to prevent heart failure disease and death caused by heart failure, the healthcare professionals spreading the awareness among the public. Till now, effective curing of heart failure is still not possible but if patients treated well then it can improve quality of life and survival. Many healthcare professionals recommend taking sodium (in the form of salt) by the heart failure patients. But the consumption of sodium in heart failure patients is still a debatable topic among the healthcare professionals. How much quantity of salt patients’ needs to take is still a question. Excessive salt consumption can cause hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy and less salt consumption is illogically linked with the poorer heart failure results. This overview discussed about the merits as well as demerits related to the consumption of salt in patients suffering from heart failure.

Incretin based therapy and pancreatic cancer: Realising the reality

Incretin-based therapies like glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors help maintain the glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with additional systemic benefits and little risk of hypoglycaemia. These medications are associated with low-grade chronic pancreatitis in animal models inconsistently. The incidence of acute pancreatitis was also reported in some human studies. This inflammation provides fertile ground for developing pancreatic carcinoma (PC). Although the data from clinical trials and population-based studies have established safety regarding PC, the pathophysiological possibility that low-grade chronic pancreatitis leads to PC remains. We review the existing literature and describe the relationship between incretin-based therapies and PC.

Primary hyperparathyroidism presenting as acute pancreatitis: An institutional experience with review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Acute pancreatitis (AP) presenting as an initial manifestation of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is uncommon, and its timely diagnosis is crucial in preventing recurrent attacks of pancreatitis.

AIM

To determine the clinical, biochemical, and radiological profile of PHPT patients presenting as AP.

METHODS

This is a retrospective observational study, 51 consecutive patients admitted with the diagnosis of PHPT during January 2010 and October 2021 at a tertiary care hospital in Puducherry, India was included. The diagnosis of AP was established in the presence of at least two of the three following features: abdominal pain, levels of serum amylase or lipase greater than three times the normal, and characteristic features at abdominal imaging.

RESULTS

Out of the 51 consecutive patients with PHPT, twelve (23.52%) had pancreatitis [5 (9.80%) AP, seven (13.72%) chronic pancreatitis (CP)]. PHPT with AP (PHPT-AP) was more common among males with the presentation at a younger age (35.20 ± 16.11 vs 49.23 ± 14.80 years, P = 0.05) and lower plasma intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels [125 (80.55-178.65) vs 519.80 (149-1649.55, P = 0.01)] compared to PHPT without pancreatitis (PHPT-NP). The mean serum calcium levels were similar in both PHPT-AP and PHPT-NP groups [(11.66 ± 1.15 mg/dL) vs (12.46 ± 1.71 mg/dL), P = 0.32]. PHPT-AP also presented with more gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting with lesser skeletal and renal manifestations as compared to patients with PHPT-NP.

CONCLUSION

AP can be the only presenting feature of PHPT. Normal or higher serum calcium levels during AP should always draw attention towards endocrine causes like PHPT.

Do preoperative pancreatic computed tomography attenuation index and enhancement ratio predict pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy?

BACKGROUND

The commonly used predictors of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) have subjective assessment components and can be used only in the postoperative setting. Also, the available objective predictors based on preoperative cross-sectional imaging were not prospectively studied.

AIM

To evaluate the accuracy of the pancreatic attenuation index (PAI) and pancreatic enhancement ratio (PER) for predicting CR-POPF following PD and its correlation with pancreatic fat fraction and fibrosis.

METHODS

A prospective observational study included patients who underwent PD for benign and malignant pathology of the periampullary region or pancreatic head between February 2019 and February 2021. Patients undergoing extended or total pancreatectomy and those with severe atrophy of pancreatic tissue or extensive parenchymal calcifications in the pancreatic head and neck precluding calculation of PAI and PER were excluded from the study. Preoperatively PAI was measured in the neck of the pancreas by marking regions of interest (ROI) in the non-contrast computed tomography (CT), and PER was measured during the contrast phase of the CT abdomen. Also, the fibrosis score and fat fraction of the pancreatic neck were assessed during the histopathological examination. Demographic, clinical and preoperative radiological indices (PAI, PER) were evaluated to predict CR-POPF. Preoperative pancreatic neck CT indices were correlated with the histopathological assessment of fat fraction and fibrosis.

RESULTS

Of the 70 patients who underwent PD, 61 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included in the analysis. The incidence of CR-POPF was 29.5% (18/61). PAI had no association with the development of CR-POPF. Of the preoperative parameters, PER (mean ± standard deviation [SD]) was significantly lower in patients developing CR-POPF (0.58 ± 0.20 vs 0.81 ± 0.44, P = 0.006). The area under the curve for the PER was 0.661 (95%CI: 0.517-0.804), which was significant (P = 0.049). PER cut-off of 0.673 predicts CR-POPF with 77.8% sensitivity and 55.8% specificity. PAI and PER had a weak negative correlation (Strength-0.26, P = 0.037). Also, PER showed a moderately positive correlation with fibrosis (Strength 0.50, P < 0.001). Patients with CR-POPF had a significantly higher incidence of the intraabdominal abscess (50% vs 2.3%, P < 0.001), delayed gastric emptying (83.3% vs 30.2, P < 0.001), and prolonged mean (± SD) postoperative hospital stay (26.8 ± 13.9 vs 9.6 ± 3.6, P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

PER exhibited good accuracy in predicting the development of CR-POPF. PER additionally showed a good correlation with PAI and fibrosis scores and may be used as an objective preoperative surrogate for assessing pancreatic texture. However, ROI-based PAI did not show any association with CR-POPF and pancreatic fat fraction.

Association Between Anthropometric Risk Factors and Metabolic Syndrome Among Adults in India: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

Introduction

Several studies have explored the effect of anthropometric risk factors on metabolic syndrome. However, no systematic effort has explored the effect of overweight and obesity on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in India. Thus, we undertook a meta-analysis to estimate the effect of anthropometric risk factors on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome.

Methods

We searched databases PubMed Central, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane library and search engines ScienceDirect and Google Scholar, from January 1964 through March 2021. We used the Newcastle–Ottawa scale to assess the quality of published studies, conducted a meta-analysis with a random-effects model, and reported pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% CIs.

Results

We analyzed 26 studies with a total of 37,965 participants. Most studies had good to satisfactory quality on the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. Participants who were overweight (pooled OR, 5.47; 95% CI, 3.70–8.09) or obese (pooled OR, 5.00; 95% CI, 3.61–6.93) had higher odds of having metabolic syndrome than those of normal or low body weight. Sensitivity analysis showed no significant variation in the magnitude or direction of outcome, indicating the lack of influence of a single study on the overall pooled estimate.

Conclusion

Overweight and obesity are significantly associated with metabolic syndrome. On the basis of evidence, clinicians and policy makers should implement weight reduction strategies among patients and the general population.

Brief Report: A Novel Sodium/Iodide Symporter Mutation, S356F, Causing Congenital Hypothyroidism

The sodium-iodide symporter (NIS, SLC5A5) is expressed at the basolateral membrane of the thyroid follicular cell, and facilitates the thyroidal iodide uptake required for thyroid hormone biosynthesis. Biallelic loss-of-function mutations in NIS are a rare cause of dyshormonogenic congenital hypothyroidism. Affected individuals typically exhibit a normally sited, often goitrous thyroid gland, with absent uptake of radioiodine in the thyroid and other NIS-expressing tissues. We report a novel homozygous NIS mutation (c.1067 C>T, p.S356F) in four siblings from a consanguineous Indian kindred, presenting with significant hypothyroidism. Functional characterization of the mutant protein demonstrated impaired plasma membrane localization and cellular iodide transport.

Adrenal crisis in a patient with APS2 due to COVID-19: A case report

COVID-19 (corona virus disease 2019), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has spread throughout the globe and affected millions of people worldwide. Here, we report a patient with autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 2 who presented with adrenal crisis, precipitated by COVID-19. We intend to highlight the importance of stress dosing in preventing adrenal crisis in patients with adrenal insufficiency (AI). A uniform structured education programme is needed to improve knowledge and practices in patients with AI in our country.

Association between behavioural risk factors and metabolic syndrome among adult population in India: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

AIMS

The impact of behavioural risk factors on the metabolic syndrome has not been well understood by the researchers. This information is important to the policymakers for developing effective strategies and implement relevant policies or programs. Hence, we undertook this meta-analysis to estimate the effect of behavioural risk factors on the burden of metabolic syndrome.

DATA SYNTHESIS

We conducted a search in the databases, such as PubMed Central, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane library, and search engines, such as ScienceDirect and Google Scholar, from inception until March 2021. We used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) to assess the quality of published studies. We carried out a meta-analysis with random-effects model and reported pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). In total, we analysed 30 studies with 41,090 participants. The majority of the studies had good to satisfactory quality as per NOS. Physical activity had a statistically significant association with the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (pooled OR = 1.57; 95%CI: 1.28 to 1.93, I² = 91%). However, smoking (pooled OR = 0.96; 95%CI: 0.75 to 1.23, I² = 90.5%) and alcohol (pooled OR = 1.00; 95%CI: 0.75 to 1.33, I² = 90.8%) did not reveal a statistically significant association with the burden of metabolic syndrome.

CONCLUSION

Physical inactivity was found to be a significant risk factor for metabolic syndrome. Given the evidence, it is important that the clinicians and policymakers are alike to recommend regular physical activity among the patients and general population.

Timing of osteoporosis therapies following fracture: the current status

In most patients, osteoporosis is diagnosed only after the occurrence of the first fragility fracture. It is of utmost importance to start osteoporosis medications immediately in these patients to prevent future fractures and also to reduce associated mortality and morbidity. There remains a hesitancy over initiating osteoporotic medications, specifically for antiresorptive agents like bisphosphonates following an acute fracture due to concern over their effect on fracture healing. The purpose of this review is to study the effect of the timing of initiation of different osteoporosis medications on healing after an acute fracture. Most of the human studies, including randomized control trials (RCTs), did not find any significant negative effect on fracture healing with early use of bisphosphonate after an acute fracture. Anabolic agents like teriparatide have shown either neutral or beneficial effects on fracture healing and thus can be started very early following any osteoporotic fracture. Although human studies on the early use of other osteoporosis medications like denosumab or strontium ranelate are very sparse in the literature, none of these medications have shown any evidence of delay in fracture healing. To summarize, among the commonly used anti-osteoporosis agents, both bisphosphonates and teriparatide are safe to be initiated in the early acute post-fracture period. Moreover, teriparatide has shown some evidence in favor of reducing fracture healing time.

Cardiovagal modulation and oxidative stress in hypothyroidism on maintenance therapy

AIM

To analyze the autonomic control of heart rate variability (HRV) in subjects with peripheral hypothroidism undergoing hormone replacement therapy with L-thyroxine (L-T4) for 5-10 years.

METHODS

Thyroid profile, lipid profile, lipid-risk factors, parameters of oxidative stress [malondialdehyde (MDA)], inflammation [high-sensitive C-reactive protein (CRP)] and Heart rate variability (HRV) was analyzed in thirty-eight hypothyroid patients on treatment for more than five years and compared with healthy euthyroid volunteers of similar age, gender, and body composition. The link of oxidative stress with HRV parameters was assessed by Spearman-Rho correlation and regression analyses.

RESULTS

Hypothyroid patients on L-T4 treatment, had higher TSH (p<0.01), lipid profile (p<0.05) and lipid risk factors (p<0.05), high-sensitive C-reactive-protein (hsCRP) (3.31 versus 4.95 mg/L; p<0.05) and MDA (2.66 versus 6.87 μm/L; p <0.001) in serum. There was gross reduction in HRV parameters [reduced standard deviation of NN interval (SDNN), root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats (RMSSD), total power (TP) and elevated ratio of low to high frequency power (LF/HF ratio)] in patients. Elevated MDA was correlated with vagal withdrawal (decreased SDNN, RMSSD and TP) and TSH. In multiple regression analysis TSH and TP contributed to the rise in MDA.

CONCLUSION

Hormone replacement therapy with L-T4 for hypothyroidism alone does not resolve persistent hyperlipidemia, oxidative stress and inflammation in primary hypothyroid patients even after five years of treatment. Association of oxidative stress with reduced cardiovagal modulation in these patients suggests persistence of cardiovascular risk despite standard treatment which warrants further investigation.

Long-term effects of metformin use in gestational diabetes mellitus on offspring health

Metformin is the first-line drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, but its role in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) management is not clear. Recent evidence suggests a certain beneficial effect of metformin in the treatment of GDM, but a high treatment failure rate leads to the initiation of additional medications, such as insulin. Moreover, since metformin crosses the placental barrier and reaches a significant level in the fetus, it is likely to influence the fetal metabolic milieu. The evidence indicates the long-term safety in children exposed to metformin in utero except for mild adverse anthropometric profiles. Diligent follow-up of metformin-exposed offspring is warranted from the clinician’s point of view.

Diagnosis and treatment outcomes of Cushing's disease during pregnancy

PURPOSE

We report a case of a pregnant woman with Cushing's disease (CD) and performed a systematic review of literature on diagnosis, treatment, maternal and fetal outcomes of CD in pregnancy.

METHODS

A PubMed search was performed for manuscripts in English language from inception till June 2020. Cases of CD with hypercortisolism during pregnancy were included and categorized into three groups based on treatment received. Data on diagnostic modalities, CD remission, materno-fetal outcomes were analysed.

RESULTS

Fifty-five patients of CD with 62 pregnancies were analysed. 24-h urinary free cortisol(UFC) was elevated by a mean of 5.4 ± 4.2 fold upper limit of normal non-pregnant level. 12/19 (63.1%) CD patients had more than threefold elevation of UFC measured during pregnancy. Mean midnight serum cortisol was 753.7 ± 270.5 nmol/l. At a midnight serum cortisol cut off of 440 nmol/l, 15/16 patients were correctly identified as CD. 23.2% underwent trans-sphenoidal surgery (group 1), 16.1% received only medical treatment (group 2) while 60.7% received no treatment (group 3) during pregnancy. Remission rates for CD in groups 1 and 2 were 76.9% and 77.8%, respectively. Adverse maternal and fetal outcomes were seen in 53.9% and 59.3% of the patients, respectively and were not significantly different between groups, although, lesser live births and greater pregnancy losses were seen in group 3.

CONCLUSION

Midnight serum cortisol had better sensitivity than UFC for diagnosing hypercortisolism due to CD during pregnancy. In general, CD should be treated during pregnancy in order to optimize maternal and fetal outcomes as a trend towards increased live births is seen in treated subjects.

Effects of 12 Weeks Practice of Yoga on Heart Rate Variability in Males with Type 2 Diabetes Receiving Oral Antidiabetic Drugs: A Randomized Control Trial

Objective: To investigate the effects of 12 weeks practice of a structured yoga module on heart rate variability (HRV) and cardiometabolic risks in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) receiving similar kind of oral antidiabetic drugs (OAD) with yoga therapy and without yoga therapy, matched for all the known confounders. Design: Parallel design interventional (randomized control trial) study. Subjects: Eighty treatment-naive males with T2D were randomized into control group (n = 40) and study group (n = 40). Intervention: Study group participants received a structured yoga therapy that included asana and pranayama practice for 12 weeks in addition to OAD, whereas control group participants received OAD alone. Outcome measures: Before and after intervention, BP parameters, rate pressure product (RPP) as the marker of myocardial stress, total power (TP) of HRV, low-frequency to high-frequency (LF-HF) ratio of HRV, homeostatic model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), lipid profile and lipid risk factors, malondialdehyde (MDA), and high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were measured. TP of HRV was defined as the primary outcome. Association of TP (the marker of HRV) and LF-HF ratio (the marker of sympathovagal balance) with cardiometabolic parameters was assessed by correlation and regression analyses. Results: After 12 weeks yoga therapy, there was significant reduction in cardiometabolic risks (TP of HRV, RPP, lipid risks factors, levels of MDA, and hsCRP) in study group subjects compared with control subjects that did not receive yoga therapy. All cardiometabolic risk factors were significantly correlated with TP in study group, having maximum significance with homeostatic model of insulin secretion (r = 0.502, p ≤ 0.001). Multiple regression analysis demonstrated the independent contribution of decrease in RPP, HOMA-IR, hsCRP, and MDA to increased TP and decreased LF-HF ratio in T2D patients after yoga therapy. Conclusion: From the results of this study, the authors conclude that 12 weeks practice of a structured yoga module improves TP of HRV, sympathovagal balance, and metabolic functions, and reduce cardiovascular (CV) risks in patients with diabetes who received routine antidiabetic medicines along with yoga therapy, compared with the patients with diabetes who received antidiabetic medicines alone. The reduction in cardiometabolic risks in these patients is linked to the improvement in TP of HRV. Future studies should also include a control group with rapid walking or a similar exercise program of equal time to the yoga intervention group to discern whether it is in fact yoga that is leading to these results and not simply increased CV activity. Clinical Trial Registry of India (No. CTRI/2021/06/034074).

Effect of 2 mg Versus 4 mg of Intravenous Zoledronic Acid on Bone Mineral Density at the Lumbar Spine in Indian Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis: A Double-blind Parallel-arm Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective:

The primary purpose was to compare the effect of 2 mg and 4 mg of intravenous zoledronic acid (ZA) on change in the lumbar spine (LS) bone mineral density (BMD) at the end of 1 year in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. The secondary objectives were changes in BMD at the total hip and femoral neck, change in bone turnover markers (BTMs), and the incidence of new fractures.

Methods:

This was a double-blind, parallel-arm, randomized control trial with an allocation ratio of 1:1 done in 70 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

Findings:

The mean (±standard deviation) percentage increase in LS BMD at the end of 1 year was 4.86% ± 3.05% and 5.35% ± 3.73% in the 2 mg and 4 mg group, respectively. The dose of 2 mg ZA proved to be inferior to 4 mg with a noninferiority margin of 0.5%. There was no difference in BMD change at hip and BTMs between the two groups at the end of 1 year. Only one patient in 4 mg group developed two new vertebral fractures during a 12-month follow-up. Acute-phase reactions were the most common (43%) side-effects noted without any difference between the two groups (P = 0.63).

Conclusion:

This study failed to show the noninferiority of 2 mg ZA compared to 4 mg ZA for change in LS BMD at the end of 1 year.

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor-induced autoimmune diseases: Current evidence

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i) have an important place in the management of type 2 diabetes. The DPP-4 enzyme is ubiquitously distributed throughout the human body and has multiple substrates through which it regulates several important physiological functions. DPP-4 regulates several immune functions, including T-cell activation, macrophage function, and secretion of cytokines. Studies have reported an increase in autoimmune diseases like bullous pemphigoid, inflammatory bowel disease, and arthritis with DPP-4i use. The relationship of DPP-4i and autoimmune diseases is a complex one and warrants further research into the effect of DPP-4 inhibition on the immune system to understand the pathogenesis more clearly. Whether a particular cluster of autoimmune diseases is associated with DPP-4i use remains an important contentious issue. Nevertheless, a heightened awareness from the clinicians is required to identify and treat any such diseases. Through this review, we explore the clinical and pathophysiological characteristics of this association in light of recent evidence.

Diabetes and pancreatic cancer: Exploring the two-way traffic

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is often associated with a poor prognosis. Long-standing diabetes mellitus is considered as an important risk factor for its development. This risk can be modified by the use of certain antidiabetic medications. On the other hand, new-onset diabetes can signal towards an underlying PC in the elderly population. Recently, several attempts have been made to develop an effective clinical tool for PC screening using a combination of history of new-onset diabetes and several other clinical and biochemical markers. On the contrary, diabetes affects the survival after treatment for PC. We describe this intimate and complex two-way relationship of diabetes and PC in this review by exploring the underlying pathogenesis.

Impact of surgery for chronic pancreatitis on the risk of pancreatic cancer: Untying the Gordian knot

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is an aggressive tumor with poor long-term outcomes. Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is considered a risk factor for the development of pancreatic cancer (PC). Persistent pancreatic inflammation and activation of pancreatic stellate cells play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of CP-related PC by activating the oncogene pathway. While genetic mutations increase the possibility of recurrent and persistent pancreatic inflammation, they are not directly associated with the development of PC. Recent studies suggest that early surgical intervention for CP might have a protective role in the development of CP-related PC. Hence, the physician faces the clinical question of whether early surgical intervention should be recommended in patients with CP to prevent the development of PC. However, the varying relative risk of PC in different subsets of CP underlines the complex gene-environment interactions in the disease pathogenesis. Hence, it is essential to stratify the risk of PC in each individual patient. This review focuses on the complex relationship between CP and PC and the impact of surgical intervention on PC risk. The proposed risk stratification based on the genetic and environmental factors could guide future research and select patients for prophylactic surgery.