Does Second Trimester Maternal Serum Zonulin Level Predict Gestational Diabetes Mellitus?

Zonulin, a protein that regulates intestinal permeability, has attracted attention as a potential biomarker for GDM. Therefore, this study aims to investigate whether there are differences in zonulin levels between the GDM group and control groups, especially between those receiving different treatments (diet and insulin). Based on this idea, we included 90 patients with a gestational age between 24 and 28 weeks in our study. While GDM was not detected in 33 of these patients, as a result of OGTT, 57 patients were diagnosed with GDM and these patients were followed throughout their pregnancy. Gestational diabetes was diagnosed by an OGTT performed between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation according to American Diabetes Association (ADA) standards. During follow-up, GDM patients were divided into two groups according to whether they required insulin treatment. Plasma zonulin levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques. The GDM group had significantly higher plasma zonulin levels than the control group (p < 0.005). According to our research, zonulin may be a non-invasive biomarker involved in the etiology of GDM. Large-scale research on this topic is still needed.

Outcomes of an Asynchronous Care Model for Chronic Conditions in a Diverse Population: 12-Month Retrospective Chart Review Study.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes and hypertension are some of the most prevalent and costly chronic conditions in the United States. However, outcomes continue to lag behind targets, creating further risk of long-term complications, morbidity, and mortality for people living with these conditions. Furthermore, racial and ethnic disparities in glycemic and hypertension control persist. Flexible telehealth programs leveraging asynchronous care allow for increased provider access and more convenient follow-up, ultimately improving critical health outcomes across demographic groups. OBJECTIVE: We aim to evaluate the 12-month clinical outcomes of participants in the 9amHealth web-based clinic for diabetes and hypertension. We hypothesized that participation in the 9amHealth program would be associated with significant improvements in glycemic and blood pressure (BP) control across a diverse group of individuals. METHODS: We enrolled 95 patients in a completely web-based care clinic for diabetes and hypertension who received nutrition counseling, health coaching, and asynchronous physician consultations for medication prescribing. Patients received standard or cellular-connected glucose meters and BP cuffs in order to share data. Laboratory tests were completed either with at-home phlebotomy draws or a self-administered test kit. Patients' first and last hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and BP results over the 12-month period were compared, and analyses were repeated across race and ethnicity groups. RESULTS: Among all 95 patients, the average HbA1c decreased by -1.0 (from 8.2% to 7.2%; P<.001) over 12 months of program participation. In those with a baseline HbA1c >8%, the average HbA1c decreased by -2.1 (from 10.2% to 8.1%; P<.001), and in those with a baseline HbA1c >9%, the average HbA1c decreased by -2.8 (from 11% to 8.2%; P<.001). Among participants who identified as a race or ethnicity other than White, the HbA1c decreased by -1.2 (from 8.6% to 7.4%, P=.001). Further examination of subgroups confirmed HbA1c lowering within each race or ethnicity group. In the overall population, the average systolic BP decreased by 17.7 mm Hg (P=.006) and the average diastolic BP decreased by 14.3 mm Hg (P=.002). Among participants self-identifying as a race or ethnicity other than White, the results similarly showed a decrease in BP (average reduction in systolic BP of 10 mm Hg and in diastolic BP of 9 mm Hg). CONCLUSIONS: A fully web-based model leveraging all-asynchronous physician review and prescribing, combined with synchronous and asynchronous coaching and nutrition support, was associated with clinically meaningful improvement in HbA1c and BP control over a 12-month period among a diverse group of individuals. Further studies should prospectively evaluate the effectiveness of such models among larger populations, assess the longer-term sustainability of these outcomes, and explore financial models to make these types of programs broadly accessible.

Comportamiento de la enfermedad periodontal inflamatoria crónica en pacientes diabéticos / Behavior of chronic inflammatory periodontal disease in diabetic patients

RESUMEN Introducción: La diabetes promueve alteración en la función de neutrófilos y la deposición en los tejidos periodontales de los productos finales derivados de la glicolización avanzada. Por ello, los diabéticos son vulnerables a la enfermedad periodontal inflamatoria crónica. Estudiar su comportamiento es indispensable para acometer acciones integrales y efectivas para su control y tratamiento. Objetivo: Determinar el comportamiento de la enfermedad periodontal inflamatoria crónica en pacientes de la Consulta de Atención Integral al Paciente Diabético en el Municipio Santa Cruz del Sur. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal, desde septiembre 2018 hasta mayo 2019, en el que se incluyeron 60 pacientes que acudieron durante ese período que presentaban más de 10 dientes en boca, afección periodontal inflamatoria crónica y dieron su consentimiento para participar. Se realizó examen clínico periodontal y examen radiográfico periapical. Resultados: El mayor número de pacientes con enfermedad periodontal inflamatoria crónica fue de 41-60 años de edad, predominó el sexo femenino, en ambas variables prevaleció la periodontitis crónica avanzada, afección preponderante también en los pacientes de más de 10 años de padecimiento de la diabetes mellitus. Conclusiones: En los pacientes con control metabólico inadecuado imperó la periodontitis crónica avanzada seguida de la moderada.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Diabetes promotes impaired neutrophil function and deposition in periodontal tissues of end products derived from advanced glycolization. The refore, diabetics are vulnerable to chronic inflammatory periodontal disease. Studying their behavior is essential to undertake comprehensive and effective actions for their control and treatment. Objective: To determine the behavior of chronic inflammatory periodontal disease in patients of the Comprehensive Care Consultation for Diabetic Patients in the Municipality of Santa Cruz del Sur. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out, in the period from September 2018 to May 2019, in which 60 patients who were attended during this period were included, they had more than 10 teeth in the mouth with chronic inflammatory periodontal disease and gave their consent to participate. A periodontal clinical examination and periapical radiographic examination were performed. Results: The largest number of patients with periodontal disease were 41-60 years old, female sex predominated, in both variables advanced chronic periodontitis prevailed, also preponderant in patients with more than 10 years of suffering from diabetes mellitus. Conclusions: Advanced chronic periodontitis prevailed in patients with inadequate metabolic control, followed by moderate.

Intermittent energy restriction in type 2 diabetes: A short discussion of medication management.

AIM: To discuss type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) medication changes required during the popular 5:2 intermittent energy restriction (IER) diet. METHODS: A search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, CINAHL and Cochrane library for original research articles investigating the use of very low calorie diets (VLCD) in people with T2DM. The search terms used included "VLCD" or "very low energy diet" or "very low energy restriction" or "IER" or "intermittent fasting" or "calorie restriction" or "diabetes mellitus type 2" and "type 2 diabetes". Reference lists of selected articles were also screened for relevant publications. Only research articles written in English, which also included an explanation of medication changes were included. A recent pilot trial using the 5:2 IER method, conducted by our research group, will also be summarized. RESULTS: A total of 8 studies were found that investigated the use of VLCD in T2DM and discussed medication management. Overall these studies indicate that the use of a VLCD for people with T2DM usually require the cessation of medication to prevent hypoglycemia. Therefore, the 5:2 IER method will also require medication changes, but as seen in our pilot trial, may not require total cessation of medication, rather a cessation on the 2 IER days only. CONCLUSION: Guidelines outlined here can be used in the initial stages of a 2-d IER diet, but extensive blood glucose monitoring is still required to make the necessary individual reductions to medications in response to weight loss.

Dulaglutide: an evidence-based review of its potential in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

INTRODUCTION: As the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is anticipated to continue to rise worldwide, so too are the treatment options also continuing to expand. Current guidelines recommend individualized treatment plans which allow for provider choice and diversity of pharmacotherapeutic regimens. The glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) class is rapidly expanding, with dulaglutide (Trulicity™) as a once-weekly agent recently approved. AIMS: This article examines the evidence currently available on the efficacy and safety of dulaglutide for use in T2DM. EVIDENCE REVIEW: Dulaglutide has been shown to have similar efficacy and safety to other newer GLP-1 RAs, and better glycemic control than placebo. It lowers glycated hemoglobin (A1c), fasting and postprandial glucose levels, and promotes weight loss when used as first-, second-, or third-line therapy. It has also been shown to improve ß-cell function and provide cardiovascular benefits, such as lower blood pressure and improved lipid levels. Dulaglutide also has a low risk for hypoglycemia and a similar adverse effect profile to other GLP-1 RAs in the class, with transient gastrointestinal problems and potential risk for pancreatitis. PLACE IN THERAPY: While long-term data on safety and efficacy are forthcoming, dulaglutide is positioned to be placed at the same level as other GLP-1 RAs in the class: as second-line therapy in addition to diet and exercise in those patients who cannot achieve glycemic control on monotherapy metformin. It may also be useful as first-line therapy instead of metformin. CONCLUSION: Dulaglutide is a once-weekly GLP-1 RA approved for the treatment of T2DM that has shown similar efficacy to other agents in this class.

Uso de la medicina no convencional por pacientes diabéticos / Use of non-conventional medicine for patients with diabetes

RESUMEN Fundamento: el interés en las terapias alternativas utilizadas por las personas con diferentes enfermedades ha crecido de manera considerable en los últimos tiempos. Se estima que un gran porcentaje de las personas en regiones menos desarrolladas emplean la medicina tradicional con plantas para el cuidado de la salud. Objetivo: determinar el uso de medicina no convencional en pacientes diabéticos. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo de corte transversal, dirigido a pacientes que pertenecen al club de diabéticos del Centro Clínico Quirúrgico Hospital del Día Santo Domingo, Ecuador, desde el 5 de junio hasta el 31 de julio de 2018. La población universo estuvo compuesta de 1 300 personas. De acuerdo a los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Se obtuvo una muestra de 100 personas a las cuales se les aplicó la encuesta como instrumento de investigación. Resultados: se identificó que el sexo femenino fue el que más predominó. De esta población la mayor parte utiliza la medicina no convencional por costumbres familiares. La fitoterapia fue la más conocida y más empleada por los pacientes diabéticos. Las plantas medicinales de mayor uso fueron: Insulina (Costus igneus) y la Zarzgoza (Glycyrrhiza glabra). Conclusiones: se constató que la población diabética hace uso de la medicina no convencional para el tratamiento de su enfermedad, la misma en pocas ocasiones es recomendada por el médico, aunque no se notificaron efectos adversos algunos, la fitoterapia y la acupuntura son las más utilizadas.

ABSTRACT Background: in recent years, the use of alternative medicine as a treatment for different diseases has increased. It is considered that a great percentage of people belonging to less developed communities use alternative medicine for health care. Objective: to determine the use of non-conventional treatment in diabetic patients. Methods: an observational, cross-sectional study was used to a group of patients belonging to a diabetic club at Centro Clínico Quirúrgico Hospital del Día Santo Domingo from June 5th to July 31st, 2018. The population was composed of 1300 persons. Survey was used as research instrument and was applied to the sample of 100 persons. Results: there was predominance of the female gender. The majority used non-conventional medication for family practices. Phytotherapy was identified as the most employed and known alternative therapy used by diabetic patients. The medicinal plants used primarily was Insulina (Costus igneus) and Zarzgoza (Glycyrrhizaglabra). Conclusions: it was found that the diabetic population used non-conventional medicine for the treatment of illness and in some occasions, it was recommended by the physician although no adverse effects were reported. Phytotherapy and acupuncture were the most used procedures.

Influence of gastric emptying on the control of postprandial glycemia: physiology and therapeutic implications / Influência do esvaziamento gástrico sobre o controle da glicemia pós-prandial: fisiologia e implicações terapêuticas

The maintenance of glucose homeostasis is complex and involves, besides the secretion and action of insulin and glucagon, a hormonal and neural mechanism, regulating the rate of gastric emptying. This mechanism depends on extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion regulates the speed of gastric emptying, contributing to the control of postprandial glycemia. The pharmacodynamic characteristics of various agents of this class can explain the effects more relevant in fasting or postprandial glucose, and can thus guide the individualized treatment, according to the clinical and pathophysiological features of each patient.

A manutenção da homeostase glicêmica é complexa e envolve, além da secreção e da ação da insulina e do glucagon, mecanismos hormonais e neurais, que regulam a taxa de esvaziamento gástrico. Esse mecanismo depende de fatores extrínsecos e intrínsecos. A secreção do peptídeo 1 semelhante ao glucagon regula a velocidade de esvaziamento gástrico, de modo a contribuir para o controle da glicemia pós-prandial. As características farmacodinâmicas dos diversos agentes dessa classe podem explicar os efeitos mais relevantes na glicemia de jejum ou pós-prandial e, portanto, podem orientar o tratamento individualizado, de acordo com as características clínicas e fisiopatológicas de cada paciente.

Perfil dos pacientes diabéticos do tipo 2, insulino-necessitantes, receptores de kits para monitoração glicêmica e tratamento, vinculados a um Centro de Saúde de Belo Horizonte / Profile of type 2 insulin-needed diabetic patients, receptor of kits for glycemic monitoring and treatment, related to a Health Center in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Introdução: a prevalência crescente e as graves complicações do diabetes mellitus 2 têm demandado investimentos públicos objetivando melhorar o controle dos pacientes. A distribuição de um kit auxiliar para tratamento pelo Centro de Saúde Milionários da Prefeitura de Belo Horizonte é parte desse esforço de otimização do controle. Objetivo:investigar o impacto da distribuição do kit à clientela diabética. Métodos: aplicação de questionário estruturado e observação do manejo do glicosímetro. Resultados: foram analisados 105 pacientes com a mediana de idade de 61 anos; 64,5% mulheres; 49 anos o tempo de diagnóstico; três anos o tempo de insulinização; 75% trabalhavam exclusivamenteem casa; 59% utilizaram adequadamente o glidecosímetro, 56% diariamente; 96% reconheceram benefícios advindos do seu uso; 76% eram sedentários; 58% dos orientados sobre alimentação (92,4% do total) fizeram modificações em sua dieta; 70% não tinham atividades de lazer; 46,2% se declararam satisfeitos com sua saúde; e 51% a avaliaram como regular. Discussão: a apropriação do glicosímetro e seu uso adequadopela maioria dos pacientes proporcionaram-lhes mais autonomia, mas não resultaram em mais adesão ao tratamento. Conclusão: a provisão de insumos necessários aos pacientes diabéticos contribui para o melhor manejo do diabetes, mas não dispensa a educação continuada para o autocuidado.

Introduction: The growing prevalence and severe complications from type 2 diabetes mellitus have demanded public investments aiming at improving patients? control. The distribution of an auxiliary kit for treatment by Centro de Saúde Millionários in Belo Horizonte City Hall is part of an effort to optimize control. Objective: To investigate the impact of the kit distribution on diabetic customers. Methods: Use of a structured questionnaire andobservation of glucometer handling. Results: 105 patients were analyzed with a mean age of 61 years-old; 64.5% were women; 49 years-old was the diagnosis time; three years the insulinization period; 75% worked exclusively at home; 59% used the glucometer properly, 56% at a daily basis; 96% recognized the benefits from its use; 76% were sedentary; 58% of the subjects oriented about food (92.4% of the total) took changes in their diets; 70% did not have leisure activities; 46.2% self-declared being satisfied with their health; and 51% evaluated it as regular. Discussion: The glucometer appropriation and its proper use by most patients provided them more autonomy, but they did not result in more adhesion to the treatment. Conclusion: The supply of needed input to diabetic patients contributes to better handle diabetes, however it does not dismiss continued education for self-care.

Fatores associados ao consumo de medicamentos sem receita médicapor pessoas com Diabetes mellitus e/ou Hipertensão arterialatendidas por equipes da estratégia saúde da família / Medication use without prescription among people with diabetes mellitus and/or hypertension assisted by family health strategy teams

Introdução: A receita médica se caracteriza como meio para prover as informações necessárias ao paciente referentes à sua terapia medicamentosa. Objetivo: identificar os fatores associados ao consumo de medicamentos sem receita médica em pessoas com Diabetes Mellitus e/ou Hipertensão arterial sistêmica, moradores das áreas de abrangência das Estratégias de Saúde da Família (ESFs) de Blumenau - SC.Métodos: foi realizado um estudo epidemiológico observacional do tipo seccional, corte temporal transversal, tendo como unidade amostral pessoas com HAS e/ou DM tipo2 de 10 unidades de ESF entrevistados, no domicílio comquestionário com variáveis sociodemográficas, assistenciais e sobre a utilização de medicamentos. A variável dependentefoi uso de medicamentos sem receita. Utilizou-se estatística descritiva e testes t de Student e Qui-quadrado paraassociação com p-valor < 0,05. Resultados: Participaram doestudo 716 pessoas, das quais 488 (62,2%) eram mulheres.Foram utilizadas 2932 especialidades farmacêuticas dasquais 881 (29,9%) sem a presença da receita médica. O subgrupomais utilizado foi os Inibidores da enzima conversorade angiotensina (359; 12,3%), o medicamento mais comumfoi a Hidroclorotiazida (268, 9,1%) e a classe mais utilizadasem a presença da receita foi a dos Psicotrópicos (45,9%).Mostram-se associados ao consumo de medicamentos sema presença da receita as pessoas de maior escolaridade,tabagistas, sedentárias, que utilizavam menor quantidadede medicamentos, que não foram informadas sobre cuidadose reações adversas ao remédio e que abandonaram o tratamento. Conclusão: os resultados sugerem que o maior consumo de medicamentos sem a presença da receita está associado àquelas pessoas que cuidam menos de sua saúdee que recebem menos informação do profissional de saúdesobre seu tratamento.

Introduction: The medical prescription is a means to provide patients with information necessary to their drug therapy. Objectives: identify the factors associated with the use of drugs without a medical prescription, by patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) or systemic arterial hypertension (SAH), living in the catchment area of the Family Health Strategy (FHS) of Blumenau-SC. Methods: epidemiologic, observational, cross-sectional study, with a sample composed of type 2 DM and/or SAH patients from 10 FHS units. The participants were interviewed in their households, with a questionnaire consisting of sociodemographic, care-related and drug use variables. The dependent variable was the use of drugs without prescription. We used descriptive statistics with Student's t and chi-squared tests for association with p-value < 0.05. Results: There were 716 participants, of whom 488 (62.2%) were women. 2932 pharmaceutical preparations were used, of which 881 (29.9%) were used without medical prescription. The drug subgroup most often used was that of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (359; 12.3%). The most frequent drug was hydrochlorothiazide (268, 9,1%), and the class most frequently used without a prescription was that of the psychotropics (45.9%). The following factors were associated with the use of drugs without a medical prescription: higher schooling, smoking, sedentarism, lower amount of drug use, no information about precautions and side-effects related to drug use, and treatment drop-out. Conclusion: the results suggest that higher drug use without a medical prescription is associated with those who care less about their health, and who receive less professional information about their treatment.