Glycated albumin as a biomarker for diagnosis of diabetes mellitus:A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND Glycated albumin(GA),the non-enzymatic glycation product of albumin in plasma,became a glycemic marker in the beginning of the 21st century.The assay is not affected by hemoglobin levels and reflects the glycemic status over a shorter period as compared to HbA1c measurements.Thus,GA may contributes as an intermediate glucose index in the current diabetes mellitus(DM)diagnostic system.AIM To search and summarize the available data on glycated albumin measurements required for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus.METHODS Databases,including PubMed,Embase,Web of Science,and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials(CENTRAL),among others,were systematically searched.The Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool was applied for the assessment of quality,and the bivariate model was used to pool the sensitivity and specificity.The hierarchical summary receiver operator characteristic curves(HSROC)model was utilized to estimate the summary receiver operating characteristics curve(SROC).Sensitivity analysis was performed to investigate the association of the study design and patient characteristics with the test accuracy and meta-regression to find the source of heterogeneity.RESULTS Three studies regarding gestational diabetes mellitus(GDM)and a meta-analysis of 16 non-GDM studies,comprising a total sample size of 12876,were included in the work.Results reveal that the average cut-off values of GA reported for the diagnosis of GDM diagnosis was much lower than those for non-GDM.For non-GDM cases,diagnosing DM with a circulating GA cut-off of 14.0%had a sensitivity of 0.766(95%CI:0.539,0.901),specificity of 0.687(95%CI:0.364,0.894),and area under the curve of 0.80(95%CI:0.76,0.83)for the SROC.The estimated SROC at different GA cut-off values for non-GDM exhibited that the average location parameter lambda of 16 non-GDM studies was 2.354(95%CI:2.002,2.707),and the scale parameter beta was-0.163(95%CI:-0.614,0.288).These non-GDM studies with various thresholds had substantial heterogeneity,which may be attributed to the type of DM,age,and body mass index as possible sources.CONCLUSION Glycated albumin in non-DM exhibits a moderate diagnostic accuracy.Further research on the diagnostic accuracy of GA for GDM and combinational measurements of GA and other assays is suggested.

Relationship between hemoglobin glycation index and risk of hypoglycemia in type 2 diabetes with time-in-range in target

BACKGROUND In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM),the risk of hypoglycemia also occurs in at a time-in-range(TIR)of>70%.The hemoglobin glycation index(HGI)is considered the best single factor for predicting hypoglycemia,and offers new perspectives for the individualized treatment of patients with well-controlled blood glucose levels that are easily ignored in clinical settings.All participants underwent a 7-days continuous glucose monitoring(CGM)using a retrospective CGM system.We obtained glycemic variability indices using the CGM system.We defined HGI as laboratory hemoglobin A1c minus the glucose management indicator.Patients were categorized into low HGI(HGI<0.5)and high HGI groups(HGI≥0.5)according to HGI median(0.5).Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were used to determine the risk factors for hypoglycemia.RESULTS We included 129 subjects with T2DM(54.84±12.56 years,46%male)in the study.Median TIR score was 90%.The high HGI group exhibited lower TIR and greater time below range with higher hemoglobin A1c than the low HGI group;this suggests more glycemic excursions and an increased incidence of hypoglycemia in the high HGI group.Multivariate analyses revealed that mean blood glucose,standard deviation of blood glucose and HGI were independent risk factors for hypoglycemia.Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that the HGI was the best predictor of hypoglycemia.In addition,the optimal cut-off points for HGI,mean blood glucose,and standard deviation of blood glucose in predicting hypoglycemia were 0.5%,7.2 mmol/L and 1.4 mmol/L respectively.CONCLUSION High HGI was significantly associated with greater glycemic excursions and increased hypoglycemia in patients with TIR>70%.Our findings indicate that HGI is a reliable predictor of hypoglycemia in this population.

Cut-off value of glycated hemoglobin A1c for detecting diabetic retinopathy in the Chinese population

BACKGROUND Glycated hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c)is considered the most suitable for diabetes mellitus diagnosis due to its accuracy and convenience.However,the effect of HbA1c on diabetic retinopathy(DR)in the Han and Korean populations in Jilin,China,remains inconclusive.AIM To determine the best cut-off of HbA1c for diagnosing DR among the Chinese.METHODS This cross-sectional study included 1933 participants from the Yanbian area of Jilin Province,China.Trained investigators employed a questionnaire-based survey,physical examination,laboratory tests,and fundus photography for the investigation.The best cut-off value for HbA1c was established via the receiver operating characteristic curve.The factors associated with HbA1c-associated risk factors were determined via linear regression.RESULTS The analysis included 887 eligible Chinese Han and Korean participants,591 of whom were assigned randomly to the training set and 296 to the validation set.The prevalence of DR was 3.27% in the total population.HbA1c of 6.2% was the best cut-off value in the training set,while it was 5.9% in the validation set.In both Chinese Han and Korean populations,an HbA1c level of 6.2% was the best cut-off value.The optimal cut-off values of fasting blood glucose(FBG)≥7 mmol/L and<7 mmol/L were 8.1% and 6.2% respectively in Han populations,while those in Korean populations were 6.9%and 5.3%,respectively.Age,body mass index,and FBG were determined as the risk factors impacting HbA1c levels.CONCLUSION HbA1c may serve as a useful diagnostic indicator for DR.An HbA1c level of 6.2% may be an appropriate cut-off value for DR detection in the Chinese population.

Association of the glycemic background patterns and the diabetes management efficacy in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND Inadequate glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes(T2DM)is a major public health problem and a significant risk factor for the progression of diabetic complications.AIM To evaluate the effects of intensive and supportive glycemic management strategies over a 12-month period in individuals with T2DM with glycated hemoglobin(HbA1c)≥10%and varying backgrounds of glycemic control.METHODS This prospective observational study investigated glycemic control in patients with poorly controlled T2DM over 12 months.Participants were categorized into four groups based on prior glycemic history:Newly diagnosed,previously well controlled with recent worsening,previously off-target but now worsening,and HbA1c consistently above 10%.HbA1c levels were monitored quarterly,and patients received medical,educational,and dietary support as needed.The analysis focused on the success rates of good glycemic control and the associated factors within each group.RESULTS The study showed significant improvements in HbA1c levels in all participants.The most significant improvement was observed in individuals newly diagnosed with diabetes:65%achieved an HbA1c target of≤7%.The results varied between participants with different glycemic control histories,followed by decreasing success rates:39%in participants with previously good glycemic control,21%in participants whose glycemic control had deteriorated compared to before,and only 10%in participants with persistently poor control,with mean HbA1c levels of 6.3%,7.7%,8.2%,and 9.7%,respectively.After one year,65.2%of the“newly diagnosed patients”,39.3%in the“previously controlled group”,21.9%in the“previously off-target but now worsened'”group and 10%in the“poorly controlled from the start”group had achieved HbA1c levels of 7 and below.CONCLUSION In poorly controlled diabetes,the rate at which treatment goals are achieved is associated with the glycemic background characteristics,emphasizing the need for tailored strategies.Therefore,different and comprehensive treatment approaches are needed for patients with persistent uncontrolled diabetes.

Use of glycated albumin for the identification of diabetes in subjects from northeast China

BACKGROUND Metabolic memory is important for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes in the early stage,and in maintaining blood glucose concentrations within the normal range.The clinical diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is currently made using fasting plasma glucose,2 h-plasma glucose(2h-PG)during a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test,and hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c)level.However,the fasting plasma glucose test requires fasting,which is a barrier to screening,and reproducibility of the 2h-PG level is poor.HbA1c is affected by a shortened red blood cell lifespan.In patients with anemia and hemoglobinopathies,the measured HbA1c levels may be inaccurate.Compared with HbA1c,glycated albumin(GA)is characterized by more rapid and greater changes,and can be used to diagnose new-onset diabetes especially if urgent early treatment is required,for example in gestational diabetes.In this study,we provided cutoff values for GA and evaluated its utility as a screening and diagnostic tool for diabetes in a large high-risk group study.AIM To evaluate the utility of GA in identifying subjects with diabetes in northeast China,and to assess the diagnostic accuracy of the proposed GA cutoff in the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus.METHODS This cross-sectional study included 1935 subjects,with suspected diabetes or in high-risk groups,from 2014 to 2015 in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University(Harbin,China).The use of GA to identify diabetes was investigated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC).The GA cutoffs were derived from different 2h-PG values with hemoglobin A1c cutoffs used as a calibration curve.RESULTS The GA cutoff for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus was 15.15%from the receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve.ROC analysis demonstrated that GA was an efficient marker for detecting diabetes,with an AUC of 90.3%.CONCLUSION Our study supports the use of GA as a biomarker for the diagnosis of diabetes.

Factors Associated with Glycated Hemoglobin Levels >6.5% among Diabetic Patients Attending Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya

Introduction: Good quality care in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), whose prevalence is approximately 10% in Kenya, may prevent or delay diabetes complications. This study determined blood glycemic targets, defined by HbA1c levels (>6.5% [53 mmol/mol]) and associated factors among patients receiving diabetes management at Kenyatta National Hospital in Kenya. Methods: In this cross-sectional study conducted between May to September 2017, we obtained blood samples from 381 consenting T2DM patients attending KNH. The study collected data using a detailed questionnaire while taking glycemic measurements. Factors associated with poor glycemic control (HbA1c levels >6.5%) were determined using Ordinal logistic regression modeling, STATA software version 13. Results: 103 (27.1%) T2DM patients with poor glycemic control were identified. In multivariate analysis, independent risk factors associated with poor glycemic control and their 95% confidence intervals included: concurrent hypertension (aOR 1.6, [1.1, 2.4]), receiving ≥3 oral anti-diabetes medication (aOR 2.4, [1.3, 4.6]) and good adherence to medication based on self-reporting (aOR 6.2, [1.9, 41.3). Independent protective factors included self-monitoring of blood glucose levels (aOR 0.35, [0.2, 0.4]), patients aged 51 to 60 years (aOR 0.5, [0.3, 0.9]), weight between 50 and 70 kgs (aOR 0.5, [0.3, 0.9]) and receiving 1 to 2 diabetes medication (aOR 0.4, [0.3, 0.7]). Conclusion: Significantly high proportion of T2DM patients receiving treatment at KNH had poor glycemic control. Addressing comorbidities and promoting good glycemic control among long-standing T2DM patients receiving ≥3 oral anti-diabetes medication is key to delaying or preventing chronic diabetes complications. Self-monitoring of blood glucose levels needs to be encouraged as suggested by its protective effect. While differences in risk between diverse weights and ages need further studies, innovative ways of authenticating self-reports, e.g., triangulation, are required to ensure credibility. This work supports the Government of Kenya’s Vision 2030 in creating a healthy and productive population contributing to the country’s economic growth.

The Impact of Severity of Periodontal Bone Loss and the Levels of Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) on the Periodontal Clinical Parameters of the 2017 World Workshop among Type 2 Diabetic Patients in Saudi Arabia

Background: Type-2 diabetic patients (uncontrolled levels of glucose blood) usually have periodontal diseases and alveolar bone loss. Objectives: The present study was designed to clarify the impact of severity of periodontal bone loss and the levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) on the periodontal clinical parameters of the 2017 World Workshop among type 2 diabetic patients in Saudi Arabia (Saudi and non-Saudi). Material and Methods: This study was done on 298 type 2 diabetic patients, selected from the internship clinics, College of Dentistry, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia. The selection of patients was dependent on the levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and they were categorized into controlled (<7% HbA1c) and uncontrolled type 2 diabetics (>7% HbA1c). All patients were divided according to the severity of periodontal bone loss into three groups, group I: mild periodontal bone loss, group II: moderate periodontal bone loss, and group III: severe periodontal bone loss. Clinical evaluation of periodontal diseases was carried out by clinical parameters according to the 2017 World Workshop. All data were collected and analyzed. A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant, and of <0.001 was considered highly significant. Results: The severity of periodontal bone loss were determined in controlled type 2 diabetics (<7% HbA1c) and compared to uncontrolled type 2 diabetics (>7% HbA1c). An increased percentage of patients with severe periodontal bone loss was observed in uncontrolled type 2 diabetics (>7% HbA1c) (42.9%), as compared to controlled type 2 diabetics (<7% HbA1c) (30.5%) without statistically significant (p = 0.251). An increased mean of age, clinical attachment loss (CAL), and percentage of radiographic bone loss (% RBL) were detected in controlled type 2 diabetics (<7% HbA1c), as compared to uncontrolled type 2 diabetics (>7% HbA1c). In contrast, we found an increased mean of plaque control record (PCR), gingival bleeding index (GBI), and periodontal pocket depth (PPD) in uncontrolled type 2 diabetics (>7% HbA1c) more than in controlled type 2 diabetics (<7% HbA1c) without statistically significant (p > 0.05). Moreover, the mean of age, PCR, CAL, % RBL, and PPD were more in the patients with severe periodontal bone loss, as compared to the patients with mild and moderate periodontal bone. Highly statistically significant differences were recorded (p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study demonstrates the role of uncontrolled diabetes as a risk factor for the increase in the severity of periodontal bone loss. Thus, we suggest including the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels with periodontal parameters in the evaluation of periodontal bone loss among type 2 diabetics.

Persistently High Glycated Hemoglobin in a Subgroup of Type 2 Diabetic Patients Who Failed Usual Oral Antihyperglycemics and Insulin in Côte d’Ivoire

Background: Type II diabetes mellitus is associated with multiple metabolic derangements which can cause secondary pathophysiological changes in multiple organ systems. This in turn can impose a heavy burden of morbidity and mortality from micro‑ and macro‑vascular complications. This study aimed to describe the metabolic and therapeutic profile of a subgroup of type 2 diabetic patients who have treatment failure with oral anti-hyperglycemic agents with persistent hyperglycemia despite insulin treatment. Methods: 60 type 2 diabetic patients in treatment failure with oral antidiabetics and under insulin treatment, aged 35 to 70 years, were recruited at the Diabetes Clinic of the University Teaching Hospital of Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. Blood samples were collected in tubes containing Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) to determine glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Results: The average age of the population was 54 ± 9.38 years with a sex ratio (M/F) of 0.3, an average BMI of 30.25 ± 5 kg/m2, and an average HbA1c of 10.1% ± 1.6% for an average diabetes duration of 11.8 ± 5.8 years. The average insulin dose was 74.556 ± 16.21 UI/day, and the average duration of insulin treatment was 5.4 ± 3.1 years. The average HbA1c value was 10.1% ± 1.87% in men against 10.03% ± 1.53% in women with no significant difference (p = 0.1). The mean HbA1c values according to patient weight were 10.08% ± 2.05% for normal weight, 9.55% ± 2.26% for overweight, and 10.57% for obese, with no significant difference between the three groups of patients (p = 0.1). Conclusion: This study showed a persistence increase in glycated hemoglobin regardless of the treatment regimen, duration, and dose of insulin treatment in the subpopulation of type 2 diabetic patients.

Glycated hemoglobin and its spinoffs: Cardiovascular disease markers or risk factors?

Atherosclerosis is a major complication of diabetes, increasing the risk of cardiovascular related morbidities and mortalities. The hallmark of diabetes is hyperglycemia which duration is best predicted by elevated glycated haemoglobin A1C(Hb A1C) levels. Diabetic complications are usually attributed to oxidative stress associated with glycation of major structural and functional proteins. This non-enzymatic glycation of long lived proteins such as collagen, albumin, fibrinogen, liver enzymes and globulins result in the formation of early and advanced glycation end products(AGEs) associated with the production of myriads of free radicles and oxidants that have detrimental effects leading to diabetic complications. AGEs have been extensively discussed in the literature as etiological factors in the advancement of atherogenic events. Mechanisms described include the effects of glycation on protein structure and function that lead to defective receptor binding, impairment of immune system and enzyme function and alteration of basement membrane structural integrity. Hemoglobin(Hb) is a major circulating protein susceptible to glycation. Glycated Hb, namely Hb A1 C is used as a useful tool in the diagnosis of diabetes progression. Many studies have shown strong positive associations between elevated Hb A1 C levels and existing cardiovascular disease and major risk factors. Also, several studies presented Hb A1 C as an independent predictor of cardiovascular risk. In spite of extensive reports on positive associations, limited evidence is available considering the role of glycated Hb in the etiology of atherosclerosis. This editorial highlights potential mechanisms by which glycated hemoglobin may contribute, as a causative factor, to the progression of atherosclerosis in diabetics.

Corneal subepithelial nerve fibers in type 2 diabetes:potential biomarker of diabetic neuropathy

AIM:To observe the changes in corneal subepithelial nerve fibers(CNFs)and Langerhans cells(LCs)in patients with type 2 diabetes using corneal laser confocal microscopy(CLCM).METHODS:A total of 60 patients(64 eyes),including 40 patients with type 2 diabetes(DM group)and 20 subjects without diabetes(control group)were included with CLCM.Neuron J plugin of Image J software were used for quantitative analysis of CNF length(CNFL),CNF density(CNFD),corneal nerve branch fiber density(CNBD),main branch length density,branch length density,corneal nerve fiber tortuosity(NT)score,and LCs density.An independent samples t-test to analyze the variability between the two groups was performed,and Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the relationships between CNF and multiple biochemical indicators in the DM group.The predictive power of CNF for type 2 diabetes was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve.RESULTS:There were significant differences in the CNFL,CNFD,and main branch length density between two groups.The results of Pearson correlation analysis showed a significant negative correlation between CNFD and the duration of diabetes as well as triglyceride levels and total cholesterol,and a significant positive correlation between CNFD and serum albumin.In addition,the NT score showed a positive correlation and urea nitrogen,similar to the positive correlation observed between LC density and glycosylated hemoglobin(HbA1c)levels.CNFD showed the highest area under the curve(AUC of ROC)value,followed by main branch length density and CNFL.The AUC of the ROC curve under the logistic regression model also demonstrated good predictive values.The cut-off values of CNFD,CNFL,and main branch length density for diabetes showed 31.25,18.85,and 12.56,respectively.CONCLUSION:In patients with type 2 diabetes,there is a notable reduction in both CNFL and CNFD.These measurements can be influenced by various blood biochemical factors.However,the compromised nerve fibers can serve as valuable indicators for predicting the onset of type 2 diabetes and also as biomarkers for detecting diabetic neuropathy and its related complications.

Diabetes distress,the mediator of the poor glycemic control and depression:A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND Diabetes-related distress(DRD)is a common psychological disorder specifically associated with diabetes,its cross-talk with depression,and glycated hemoglobin(HbA1c)was discussed controversially.Interventions addressing DRD were shown to improve HbA1c.However,the primary concern is to investigate the association of DRD with glycemic control.No meta-analyses have compared the effects of depression and diabetes distress on HbA1c.AIM To assess the relationship between DRD,depression,and glycemic control.METHODS We systematically searched PubMed MEDLINE,Google Scholar,and Cochrane Library from inception up to May 2024.The keywords diabetes distress,depression,psychopathology,glycemic control,HbA1c,glycated hemoglobin,fasting,and postprandial blood glucose were used.A datasheet was used to extract the author’s name year and country of publication,diabetes distress,depression,and HbA1c among patients with DRD,depression,and control subjects.RESULTS Out of the 2046 studies retrieved,55 full texts were screened and 22 studies were included in the final meta-analysis.Diabetes distress was associated with poor glycemic control,odd ratio=0.42,95%confidence interval(CI):0.17-0.67,and P value<0.001,and odd ratio=0.52,95%CI:0.38-0.72,and P value<0.001 respectively.No significant difference was observed between depression and DRD regarding the impact on HbA1c,odd ratio=0.13,95%CI:0.15-0.41,P value=0.37,I2 for heterogeneity=76%.However,when heterogeneity was eliminated,diabetes distress influenced the HbA1c more compared to depression,odd ratio=0.29,95%CI:0.17-0.41,and P value<0.001.CONCLUSION DRD negatively influenced the HbA1c and glycemic control more than depression.Further studies using more specific measures(ecological momentary assessment)to assess DRD are recommended.

Prognostic value of glycated hemoglobin in colorectal cancer

AIM To investigate the clinical significance of routinely used glycemic parameters in a cohort of colorectal cancer(CRC) patients.METHODS Pre-treatment fasting blood glucose, insulin, Hb A1 c and homeostasis model of risk assessment(HOMA-IR) were retrospectively evaluated in a case-control study of 224 CRC and 112 control subjects matched for sex, obesity and diabetes frequency and blood lipid profile.Furthermore, the prognostic value of routinely used glycemic parameters towards progression-free(PFS) and overall survival(OS) was prospectively evaluated.RESULTS Fasting blood glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR and HbA 1c(all P < 0.0001) levels were higher in non-diabetic CRC patients compared with obesity-matched controls. All parameters were associated with increased CRC risk at ROC analysis, but no relationship with clinical-pathological variables or survival outcomes was observed for glycemia, insulinemia or HOMA-IR. Conversely, advanced CRC stage(P = 0.018) was an independent predictor of increased Hb A1 c levels, which were also higher in patients who had disease progression compared with those who did not(P = 0.05). Elevated Hb A1 c levels showed a negative prognostic value both in terms of PFS(HR = 1.24) and OS(HR = 1.36) after adjustment for major confounders, which was further confirmed in a subgroup analysis performed after exclusion of diabetic patients.CONCLUSION HbA 1c might have a negative prognostic value in CRC, thus suggesting that glycemic metabolic markers should be carefully monitored in these patients, independently of overt diabetes.

Development of Disposable Single-Use Biosensor for Fructosyl Valine and Glycated Hemoglobin A1c

A novel amperometric biosensor prototype was fabricated using screen printing technique. The disposable single-use strips were made from conductive carbon ink and modified with fructosyl amino acid oxidase. The electrodes and conducting paths were made solely with carbon ink and characterized by conductivity and cyclic voltammetry. The biosensor showed high current output, large linearity, and effectiveness for fructosyl valine as well as human blood samples. Amperometric studies were carried out using both fructosyl valine and human blood samples. With 5 uL sample volume, the biosensor showed strong amperometric response with good linearity for a wide range (0 to 8 mM). Diabetic and healthy blood samples showed sufficient difference in their amperometric responses that correlate well with their different hemoglobin A1c levels. These results demonstrate the feasibility of using this type of inexpensive single-use biosensor strips as the basis for determining hemoglobin A1c levels for diabetic patients.

Hemoglobin glycation index among adults with type 1 diabetes:Association with double diabetes features

ACKGROUND The hemoglobin glycation index(HGI)represents the discrepancy between the glucose management indicator(GMI)based on mean blood glucose levels and laboratory values of glycated hemoglobin(HbA1c).The HGI is a promising indicator for identifying individuals with excessive glycosylation,facilitating personalized evaluation and prediction of diabetic complications.However,the factors influencing the HGI in patients with type 1 diabetes(T1D)remain unclear.Autoimmune destruction of pancreaticβcells is central in T1D pathogenesis,yet insulin resistance can also be a feature of patients with T1D and their coexistence is called“double diabetes”(DD).However,knowledge regarding the relationship between DD features and the HGI in T1D is limited.AIM To assess the association between the HGI and DD features in adults with T1D.METHODS A total of 83 patients with T1D were recruited for this cross-sectional study.Laboratory HbA1c and GMI from continuous glucose monitoring data were collected to calculate the HGI.DD features included a family history of type 2 diabetes,overweight/obesity/central adiposity,hypertension,atherogenic dyslipidemia,an abnormal percentage of body fat(PBF)and/or visceral fat area(VFA)and decreased estimated insulin sensitivity.Skin autofluorescence of advanced glycation end products(SAF-AGEs),diabetic complications,and DD features were assessed,and their association with the HGI was analyzed.RESULTS A discrepancy was observed between HbA1c and GMI among patients with T1D and DD.A higher HGI was associated with an increased number of SAF-AGEs and a higher prevalence of diabetic microangiopathy(P=0.030),particularly retinopathy(P=0.031).Patients with three or more DD features exhibited an eight-fold increased risk of having a high HGI,compared with those without DD features(adjusted odds ratio=8.12;95%confidence interval:1.52-43.47).Specifically,an elevated PBF and/or VFA and decreased estimated insulin sensitivity were associated with high HGI.Regression analysis identified estimated insulin sensitivity and VFA as factors independently associated with HGI.CONCLUSION In patients with T1D,DD features are associated with a higher HGI,which represents a trend toward excessive glycosylation and is associated with a higher prevalence of chronic diabetic complications.

Management of diabolical diabetes mellitus and periodontitis nexus: Are we doing enough?

Periodontitis is the commonest oral disease affecting population worldwide. This disease is notorious for the devastation of tooth supporting structures, ensuing in the loss of dentition. The etiology for this disease is bacterial biofilm, which accumulates on the teeth as dental plaque. In addition to the biofilm microorganisms, other factors such as environmental, systemic and genetic are also responsible in progression of periodontitis. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is metabolic disorder which has an impact on the global health. DM plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. Periodontitis is declared as the &#x0201c;sixth&#x0201d; major complication of DM. Evidence based literature has depicted an enhanced incidence and severity of periodontitis in subjects with DM. A &#x0201c;two way&#x0201d; relationship has been purported between periodontitis and DM. Mutual management of both conditions is necessary. Periodontal therapy (PT) may assist to diminish the progression of DM and improve glycemic control. Various advanced technological facilities may be utilized for the purpose of patient education and disease management. The present paper clarifies the etio-pathogenesis of periodontitis, establishing it as a complication of DM and elaborating the various mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis. The role of PT in amelioration of DM and application of digital communication will be discussed. Overall, it is judicious to create an increased patient cognizance of the periodontitis-DM relationship. Conjunctive efforts must be undertaken by the medical and oral health care professionals for the management of periodontitis affected DM patients.

Impact of chronic disease self-management programs on type 2 diabetes management in primary care

AIM: To assess the effectiveness of the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program(CDSMP) on glycated hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c) and selected self-reported measures.METHODS: We compared patients who received a diabetes self-care behavioral intervention, the CDSMP developed at the Stanford University, with controls whoreceived usual care on their HbA1c and selected self-reported measures, including diabetes self-care activities, health-related quality of life(HRQOL), pain and fatigue. The subjects were a subset of participants enrolled in a randomized controlled trial that took place at seven regional clinics of a university-affiliated integrated healthcare system of a multi-specialty group practice between January 2009 and June 2011. The primary outcome was change in HbA1c from randomization to 12 mo. Data were analyzed using multilevel statistical models and linear mixed models to provide unbiased estimates of intervention effects.RESULTS: Demographic and baseline clinical characteristics were generally comparable between the two groups. The average baseline HbA1c values in the CDSMP and control groups were 9.4% and 9.2%, respectively. Significant reductions in HbA1c were seen at 12 mo for the two groups, with adjusted changes around 0.6%(P < 0.0001), but the reductions did not differ significantly between the two groups(P = 0.885). Few significant differences were observed in participants' diabetes self-care activities. No significant differences were observed in the participants' HRQOL, pain, or fatigue measures.CONCLUSION: The CDSMP intervention may not lower HbA1c any better than good routine care in an integrated healthcare system. More research is needed to understand the benefits of self-management programs in primary care in different settings and populations.

Therapeutic potential of human embryonic stem cells in type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIM:To evaluate the safety and efficacy of human embryonic stem cells(h ESCs)for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM).METHODS:Patients with a previous history of diabetes and its associated complications were enrolled and injected with hE SC lines as per the defined protocol.The patients were assessed using Nutech functional score(NFS),a numeric scoring scale to evaluate the patients for 11 diagnostic parameters.Patients were evaluated at baseline and at the end of treatment period 1(T1).All the parameters were graded on the NFS scale from 1to 5.Highest possible grade(HPG)of 5 was considered as the grade of best improvement.RESULTS:Overall,94.8%of the patients showed improvement by at least one grade of NFS at the end of T1.For all the 11 parameters evaluated,54%of patients achieved HPG after treatment.The four essential parameters(improvement in glycated hemoglobin(HbA 1c)and insulin level,and fall in number of other oral hypoglycemic drugs with and without insulin)are presented in detail.For Hb A1c,72.6%of patients at the end of T1 met the World Health Organization cut off value,i.e.,6.5%of HbA 1c.For insulin level,65.9%of patients at the end of T1 were able to achieve HPG.After treatment,the improvement was seen in 16.3%of patients who required no more than two medications along with insulin.Similarly,21.5%of patients were improved as their dosage regimen for using oral drugs was reduced to 1-2 from 5.CONCLUSION:hE SC therapy is beneficial in patients with diabetes and helps in reducing their dependence on insulin and other medicines.

Indicators of glycemic control in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus and pregnant women with diabetes mellitus

Recently, it has become clear that mild abnormal glucose tolerance increases the incidence of perinatal maternalinfant complications, and so the definition and diagnostic criteria of gestational diabetes mellitus(GDM) have been changed. Therefore, in patients with GDM and pregnant women with diabetes mellitus, even stricter glycemic control than before is required to reduce the incidence of perinatal maternal-infant complications. Strict glycemic control cannot be attained without an indicator of glycemic control; this review proposes a reliable indicator. The gold standard indicator of glycemic control in patients with diabetes mellitus is hemoglobin A1c(Hb A1c); however, we have demonstrated that Hb A1 c does not reflect glycemic control accurately during pregnancy because of iron deficiency. It has also become clear that glycated albumin, another indicator of glycemic control, is not influenced by iron deficiency and therefore might be a better indicator of glycemic control in patients with GDM and pregnant women with diabetes mellitus. However, largepopulation epidemiological studies are necessary in order to confirm our proposal. Here, we outline the most recent findings about the indicators of glycemic control during pregnancy including fructosamine and 1,5-anhydroglucitol.

Diabetes Management, Quality of Life and Treatment Satisfaction in Adult Population in Jordan and Lebanon, Observations from the SIMPLIFY Study

Introduction: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) has witnessed a rise in its prevalence worldwide and in the Middle East region. The overall burden associated with the disease is well characterized, but little is known about patient satisfaction in the region. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the quality of life (QoL) and treatment satisfaction of patients T2DM. Methods: The SIMPLIFY study was an observational, cross-sectional, multicenter, regional study that used patient-reported outcomes of T2DM patients in Jordan and Lebanon. Results: Patients were more satisfied when they were treated exclusively with oral medications, mainly metformin alone or combined with either sulfonylurea or dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor. Targets for glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) values were better reached in patients treated with oral medications. Occurrence of comorbidities did not seem to be affected by oral or injectable medications or to affect patients’ satisfaction. Data highlighted a suboptimal screening for albuminuria and showed that most patients were overweight or obese and around 30% suffered from hypoglycemia episodes. Conclusion: Data shed the light on the management of T2DM in Jordan and Lebanon and suggested the need for a more comprehensive approach to T2DM management and selection of medications that would support weight control and a lower hypoglycemia incidence.

Therapeutic effects of acupuncture on blood glucose level among patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized clinical trial

Objective:To compare the therapeutic effects of acupuncture with sham acupuncture on levels of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) among patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) under treatment with metformin.Method:Eighty participants with T2DM were allocated randomly to treatment (n =40) and control (n =40) groups.In addition to metformin therapy,patients in the acupuncture group received acupoint stimulation with even manipulation at 15 acupoints,and needles were retained for 20 minutes.The sham-acupuncture group was treated with very small needles inserted at a very shallow depth (3-5 mm) without manipulation at non-acupoints 1 cm around the actual acupuncture points.Both groups were treated for 14 sessions during 10 weeks of treatment.The FPG level was measured before treatment as well as after 1,2,4,6 and 12 weeks of treatment.The HbA1c percentage was assessed once before treatment and once 12 weeks after treatment initiation.Results:Levels of FPG and HbA1c in both groups were reduced significantly in comparison with baseline measurements (both P <.01).However,acupuncture treatment led to a significant reduction in the FPG level as compared with sham acupuncture after 4 weeks or 10 sessions of treatment [mean difference (MD) =10.18,95% confidence interval (CI) =1.74 to 18.6,P =.019],after 6 weeks or 12 sessions of treatment (MD =10.53,95% CI =2.22 to 18.83,P =.014) and after 12-week follow-up (MD =8.8,95% Cl =0.66 to 16.94,P =.034).Acupuncture treatment reduced the HbA1c level significantly in comparison with that in the shamacupuncture group (MD =0.27,95%Cl =0.08 to 0.47,P =.007).Conclusion:Our study revealed that acupuncture (as a type of Chinese therapy) combined with metformin (as a conventional hypoglycemic medication) had a greater effect on glycemic control than that elicited in the placebo control group.Consequently,acupuncture could be used as adjuvant therapy among patients with T2DM.