Fasting Glucose Research Articles

Biochemical Markers in the Prediction of Pregnancy Outcome in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.

Background and Objectives: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) may impact both maternal and fetal/neonatal health. The identification of prognostic indicators for GDM may improve risk assessment and selection of patient for intensive monitoring. The aim of this study was to find potential predictors of adverse pregnancy outcome in GDM and normoglycemic patients by comparing the levels of different biochemical parameters and the values of blood cell count (BCC) between GDM and normoglycemic patients and between patients with adverse and good outcome. Materials and Methods: Prospective clinical study included 49 patients with GDM (study group) and 44 healthy pregnant women (control group) who underwent oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at gestational age of 24-28 weeks. At the time of OGTT peripheral blood was taken for the determination of glucose levels, insulin, glycated hemoglobin, lipid status, homeostatic model assessment, BCC, iron and zinc metabolism, liver function, kidney function and inflammatory status. Each group was divided into two subgroups-normal and poor pregnancy outcome. Results: Higher RBC, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit value, fasting glucose, uric acid and fibrinogen were found in GDM patients compared to control group. In GDM patients with poor pregnancy outcome values of fibrinogen, ALT, sedimentation rate, granulocyte and total leukocyte counts were elevated, while the serum level of zinc was significantly lower. Higher level of fibrinogen was found in normoglycemic patients with adverse pregnancy outcomes. ROC curve was constructed in order to assess fibrinogen's biomarker potential. The established AUC value for diagnostic ROC was 0.816 (p < 0.001, 95% CI 0.691-0.941), while the AUC value for assessing fibrinogen's potential to predict poor pregnancy outcome in GDM was 0.751 (p = 0.0096, 95% CI 0.561-0.941). Conclusions: The results of our study demonstrated that the best prognostic potential in GDM showed inflammation related parameters, identifying fibrinogen as a parameter with both diagnostic and prognostic ability.

Sociodemographic Correlates of High Cardiovascular Health Across Childhood and Adolescence: A Prospective Study Among 2 Cohorts in the ECHO Consortium.

This study seeks to characterize cardiovascular health (CVH) from early childhood to late adolescence and identify sociodemographic correlates of high CVH that serve as levers for optimizing CVH across early life. Among 1530 youth aged 3 to 20 years from 2 cohorts in the ECHO (Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes) consortium, we first derived CVH scores on the basis of the Life's Essential 8 construct comprising 4 behavioral (nicotine use/exposure, physical activity, sleep, and diet) and 4 health factors (body mass index, blood pressure, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and fasting glucose) during early childhood (mean age, 3.5 years), middle childhood (8.0 years), early adolescence (13.3 years), and late adolescence (17.8 years). Next, we used generalized regression to estimate the probability of high (versus not high) CVH with respect to sociodemographic characteristics. Overall CVH score was stable across life stages: 81.2±7.6, 83.3±8.0, and 81.7±8.9 of 100 possible points in early childhood, middle childhood, and early adolescence, respectively. Accordingly, during these life stages, most children (63.3%-71.5%) had high CVH (80 to <100). However, CVH declined by late adolescence, with an average score of 75.5±10.2 and 39.4% high CVH. No children had optimal CVH (score=100) at any time. Correlates of high CVH include non-Hispanic White race and ethnicity, maternal college education, and annual household income >$70 000. These associations were driven by behavioral factors. Although most youth maintained high CVH across childhood, the decline by late adolescence indicates that cardiovascular disease prevention should occur before the early teen years. Disparities in high CVH over time with respect to sociodemographic characteristics were explained by behavioral factors, pointing toward prevention targets.

Loss of RREB1 reduces adipogenesis and improves insulin sensitivity in mouse and human adipocytes.

There are multiple independent genetic signals at the Ras-responsive element binding protein 1 (RREB1) locus associated with type 2 diabetes risk, fasting glucose, ectopic fat, height, and bone mineral density. We have previously shown that loss of RREB1 in pancreatic beta cells reduces insulin content and impairs islet cell development and function. However, RREB1 is a widely expressed transcription factor and the metabolic impact of RREB1 loss in vivo remains unknown. Here, we show that male and female global heterozygous knockout (Rreb1 +/-) mice have reduced body length, weight, and fat mass on high-fat diet. Rreb1+/- mice have sex- and diet-specific decreases in adipose tissue and adipocyte size; male mice on high-fat diet had larger gonadal adipocytes, while males on standard chow and females on high-fat diet had smaller, more insulin sensitive subcutaneous adipocytes. Mouse and human precursor cells lacking RREB1 have decreased adipogenic gene expression and activated transcription of genes associated with osteoblast differentiation, which was associated with Rreb1 +/- mice having increased bone mineral density in vivo. Finally, human carriers of RREB1 T2D protective alleles have smaller adipocytes, consistent with RREB1 loss-of-function reducing diabetes risk.

Blood Glucose During High Altitude Trekking in Young Healthy Adults.

Reid, Ly-Anh, Jordan L Rees, Miranda Kimber, Marina James, Graeme M Purdy, Megan Smorschok, Lauren E Maier, Normand G. Boulé, Trevor A. Day, Margie H. Davenport, and Craig D. Steinback. Blood glucose during high altitude trekking in young healthy adults. High Alt Med Biol. 00:00-00, 2024. Introduction: High altitude trekking is becoming more popular and accessible to an increased number of people. Simultaneously, there is a worldwide rise in the prevalence of metabolic diseases. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of a gradual trekking ascent to high altitude on continuous glucose monitoring outcomes including fasting, mean 24-hour, postprandial, and post-75 g modified oral glucose tolerance test. This study also investigated the relationship between physical activity intensity, high altitude, and glucose concentrations. Methods: Individuals (n = 9) from Alberta, Canada participated in a 2-week trek in the Khumbu Valley in Nepal, ascending by foot from 2,860 m to 5,300 m (∼65 km) over 10 days. A standardized 75 g oral glucose load was given to participants at four different altitudes (1,130 m, 3,440 m, 3,820 m, 5,160 m). Physical activity (Actigraph accelerometry) and interstitial glucose (iPro2, Medtronic) were measured continuously during the trek. Results: Fasting and mean 24-hour glucose concentrations were not different between altitudes. However, 2-hour post dinner glucose and 2-hour post lunch glucose, AUC concentrations were different between altitudes. The relationship between physical activity intensity and glucose was not influenced by increasing altitudes. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that glucose regulation is largely preserved at high altitude; however, inconsistency in our postprandial glucose concentrations at altitude warrants further investigation.

Empagliflozin’s role in early tubular protection for type 2 diabetes patients

BackgroundPatients with type 2 diabetes often face early tubular injury, necessitating effective treatment strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin on early tubular injury biomarkers in type 2 diabetes patients with normoalbuminuria.MethodsA randomized controlled clinical study comprising 54 patients selected based on specific criteria was conducted. Patients were divided into an intervention group (empagliflozin, n = 27) and a control group (n = 27) and treated for 6 weeks. Tubular injury biomarkers KIM-1 and NGAL were assessed pre- and post-treatment.ResultsBoth groups demonstrated comparable baseline characteristics. Post-treatment, fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels decreased similarly in both groups. The intervention group exhibited better improvements in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and blood uric acid levels. Renal function indicators, including UACR and eGFR, showed greater enhancements in the intervention group. Significant reductions in KIM-1 and NGAL were observed in the intervention group.ConclusionTreatment with empagliflozin in type 2 diabetes patients with normoalbuminuria led to a notable decrease in tubular injury biomarkers KIM-1 and NGAL. These findings highlight the potential of SGLT2 inhibitors in early tubular protection, offering a new therapeutic approach.

Study on the protective effect of Aronia melanocarpa extract on type 2 diabetes by regulating glucose and lipid metabolism through intestinal flora.

Aronia melanocarpa, a plant rich in anthocyanins, has been studied for its potential to regulate blood sugar and blood lipids, although the specific mechanism is not yet understood. This research aims to identify the differential bacterial flora and elucidate the mechanism by which it improves glucose and lipid metabolism disorders through 16S rDNA gene sequencing. The study reveals the protective effect of Aronia melanocarpa extract (AME) on liver damage in type 2 diabetic rats. Experimental results demonstrate that AME can effectively modulate the abundance of intestinal flora, reduce colon tissue damage, enhance the weight of diabetic rats, and lower levels of fasting blood sugar, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides (TG). Additionally, liver morphology analysis shows that AME can effectively mitigate liver tissue structural damage in type 2 diabetic rats. In conclusion, AME regulates glucose and lipid metabolism by influencing intestinal flora, ultimately regulating glucose and lipid metabolism in type 2 diabetic rats.

중년여성의 대사증후군과 폐경연령의 관계

Purpose: This study was attempted to investigate the relationship between the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and the age of menopause in middle-aged Korean women using data from The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (Ⅸ-1, 2022). Method: The number of subjects was 1,337, and complex sample frequency, descriptive statistics, cross and logistic regression analysis were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics 26. Results: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in subjects who adjusted for sociodemographic and health-related characteristics simultaneously did not show a significant relationship with menopausal age. Early menopause was significantly lower by 0.30 times in high school graduates and 0.28 times lower in those with low fasting blood sugar levels, and significantly increased by 6.75 times, 4.44 times, and 2.72 times in low, middle, and non-single-person households, respectively. Late menopause was found to significantly increase 2.28 times in those with an education level of elementary school or less, 4.93 times in those with low income level, 3.85 times in those with middle income, and 2.87 times in those without binge drinking. Conclusion: Interventions that takes into account those with low levels of education or income should be prepared to prevent premature or late menopause. To manage early menopause, fasting blood sugar levels must be managed and family and social attention must be maintained for middle-aged women. To manage late menopause, personal practice of maintaining appropriate drinking habits is necessary.

Characteristics of physical and sexual development of girls conceived by assisted reproductive technologies

The objective: to study the characteristics of the physical and sexual development of girls conceived with the help of assisted reproductive technologies (ART).Materials and methods. An examination of 16 teenage girls who were born with the help of ART was carried out. The average age of the girls was 12.0±0.45 (10–13) years. All girls underwent a clinical, functional, hormonal examinations, secondary sexual characteristics were evaluated according to the J. Tanner scale.Blood levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), as well as estradiol (E2), testosterone, levels of thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) were determined by the radioimmunoassay method on the microspectrophotometer “Stat fax” 303 PLUS USA in the first phase of the menstrual cycle.To study the functional activity of the liver, fasting glucose level and oral glucose tolerance test, insulin, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels were determined. In order to compare the concentration of hormones, 25 teenage girls of the appropriate age who were born from a spontaneous pregnancy and have a physiological course of the puberty period were additionally examined.Results. According to the ultrasound examination, the length of the right and left ovaries, as well as all echographic indicators, are significantly increased in girls who were born with the help of ART.A study of hormone levels in teenage girls conceived with ART revealed statistically higher levels of LH (5.05±1.17 mIU/ml), DHEA-S (91.9±16.93 μg/dL), E2 (78.13±17.98 pg/ml), which indicates hyperandrogenism and hyperestrogenism of adrenal origin. At the same time, the fasting glucose level and its level after the oral glucose tolerance test were statistically lower than similar indicators in girls born from a spontaneous pregnancy and with the physiological course of puberty, but the fasting insulin level was higher (p&lt;0.05).Conclusions. In girls who were born with the help of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), premature development of secondary sexual characteristics (late precocious puberty) and pronounced hair growth have been identified.Carbohydrate metabolism, enzymatic activity of the liver and functional activity of the kidneys in girls who were born with the help of ART do not differ from similar indicators of girls who were born from spontaneous pregnancy and with the physiological course of puberty.

Effects of licorice extract in combination with a low-calorie diet on obesity indices, glycemic indices, and lipid profiles in overweight/obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BackgroundPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common ovarian dysfunction. Recent studies showed the effectiveness of licorice on metabolic profiles with inconsistent findings. So, we investigated the effect of licorice on obesity indices, glycemic indices, and lipid profiles in women with PCOS.MethodsThis randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed on 66 overweight/obese women with PCOS. The participants were randomly assigned to receive either 1.5 gr/day licorice extract plus a low-calorie diet (n = 33) or placebo plus a low-calorie diet (n = 33) for 8 weeks. Participants’ anthropometric indices and body composition were assessed using standard protocols. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin levels, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) were measured using enzymatic kits. The homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and HOMA of β-cell function (HOMA-B) were calculated using valid formulas.ResultsBetween-group comparisons demonstrated significant differences between the groups in terms of obesity indices (body weight, BMI, and body fat), lipid profiles (TG, TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C), FBS and insulin levels, HOMA-IR, and HOMA-B at the end of the study (P < 0.05). Supplementation with licorice plus a low-calorie diet was also more effective in improving all parameters than a low-calorie diet alone after adjusting for confounders (baseline values, age, weight changes, and physical activity changes) (P < 0.05).ConclusionThe findings showed that licorice consumption leads to improvements in obesity indices, glucose homeostasis, and lipid profiles compared to placebo. Due to possible limitations of the study, further research is needed to confirm these findings.

Are dietary factors associated with cardiometabolic risk factors in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is intricately linked with dietary patterns and metabolic homeostasis. Therefore, the present study focused to investigate the relation between dietary patterns and cardiometabolic risk factors related to fatty liver in NAFLD patients. This cross-sectional study included 117 individuals whose body mass index (BMI) threshold of 25 or above diagnosed with NAFLD by magnetic resonance imaging. The hospital database was used to review the patients' medical records such as lipid parameters, and fasting blood sugar. Anthropometric measurements and body composition were measured by researchers. Likewise, data from 24-h dietary recalls of individuals were collected to analyze their energy and nutrient intakes besides calculating dietary insulin index (DII), dietary insulin load (DIL), dietary glycemic index (DGI), and dietary glycemic load (DGL). Participants consuming diets with distinct levels of DII, DIL, DGI, and DGL exhibited variations in dietary energy and nutrient intake. Specifically, differences were noted in carbohydrate intake across quartiles of DII, DIL, DGI, and DGL, while fructose consumption showed variability in DGL quartiles (p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, sucrose intake demonstrated distinctions in both DII and DGL quartiles (p ≤ 0.05). No statistical difference was found in biochemical parameters and the fatty liver index among different levels of DII, DIL, DGI, and DGL (p > 0.05). After adjusting for potential confounders, participants with a higher DGI had four times greater odds of developing metabolic syndrome compared to those in the bottom quartile (OR, 4.32; 95% CI [1.42-13.11]). This study provides initial evidence of the intricate association between dietary factors and NAFLD, emphasizing the necessity for further research including prospective designs with larger sample sizes, to garner additional insights.

Genetic Variants in Vitamin-D Metabolism Genes (rs1155563, rs12785878 and rs10500804) among Females with Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus in Saudi Arabia.

Hypovitaminosis D has shown to be linked with T2DM development and control in numerous studies. The association of SNPs in genes related to VitD metabolism with T2DM has not been sufficiently studied. Consequently, our aim in the present study was to explore the association between genetic variants in genes connected with VitD, mainly a SNP in GC (rs1155563), a SNP in DHCR7 (rs12785878) and a SNP in CYP2R1 (rs10500804) with glycaemic parameters in females with T2DM in Saudi Arabia. The cross-sectional study included 149 females (age 38-52 years) with T2DM from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (September 2022-March 2023). Blood was extracted from the participants for biochemical tests including measuring VitD [25(OH)D] concentration, parameters of glycaemia (HbA1c, insulin, fasting glucose and insulin sensitivity indices including HOMA2-IR and HOMA2-%β), and for genomic DNA isolation. Sanger DNA sequencing was used to screen for VitD genetic polymorphisms (rs1155563, rs12785878 and rs10500804). Minor allele frequency for rs1155563C, rs12785878T and rs10500804G was 0.21, 0.23 and 0.37, respectively. Levels of 25(OH)D and glycaemic parameters as well did not show any significant difference between the genotypes of each SNP. This study showed lack of association of rs1155563 in GC, rs12785878 in DHCR7 and rs10500804 in CYP2R1 with VitD level primarily and with glycaemic parameters secondarily. Additional research is required to explore further other VitD genetic polymorphisms influencing T2DM which might lead consequently to genetically-based personalized management for T2DM.

Association Between Cardiovascular Health and Subclinical Atherosclerosis Among Young Adults Using the American Heart Association's "Life's Essential 8" Metrics.

This study investigated the association of American Heart Association's cardiovascular health guidelines Life's Essential 8 (LE8) and Life's Simple 7 (LS7) with carotid artery outcomes among young adults. This cross-sectional study included 240 young adults (age 24.2±1.6 years) who underwent a carotid ultrasound between 2018 and 2022. LE8 score was calculated from 4 health factors (body mass index, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, fasting glucose, and blood pressure), and 4 health behaviors (dietary intake, physical activity, tobacco use, and sleep). LS7 was calculated from 7 metrics (all LE8 metrics, except for sleep) with a simpler algorithm. Higher LE8 and LS7 scores both indicate better health and better adherence to American Heart Association guidelines. Carotid artery outcomes included carotid artery intima-media thickness, arterial stiffness (eg, distensibility), and echogenicity determined by grayscale median of the intima media complex. Results of linear regression analyses, adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity, and parents' highest degree, indicated that a 1-SD increase in LE8 score was associated with 12.14 μm lower carotid artery intima-media thickness (95% CI, -20.93 to 3.35), 1.17 (10-6×m2/N) greater distensibility (95% CI, 0.09-2.24), suggesting less arterial stiffness, and 2.66 μm greater grayscale median of the intima media complex (95% CI, 0.58-4.75), suggesting less lipid deposition. Analyses using LS7 score demonstrated comparable findings. Health factor metrics demonstrated stronger association with carotid artery outcomes, as compared with behavior metrics. Greater adherence to the American Heart Association's cardiovascular health guidelines is associated with lower risk for subclinical atherosclerosis in young adults. LE8 and LS7 demonstrated comparable associations with carotid artery outcomes.

Cardiorespiratory fitness and body mass index on metabolic syndrome in middle-aged Japanese adults under national health guidance: a cross-sectional study

ObjectivesPoor cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and high body mass index (BMI) increased the risk of developing metabolic Syndrome (MetS) mostly in Caucasians. However, the sex-specific combined association of CRF and BMI on MetS considering health-related behaviors has yet to be thoroughly examined in Japanese. This study aims to investigate the sex-specific independent and combined associations of CRF and BMI with MetS in middle-aged Japanese adults.Methods421 participants were included in this cross-sectional study. CRF was estimated using a submaximal cycle ergometer. CRF and BMI were respectively divided into three categories according to tertile distribution. MetS was diagnosed based on five risk factors: waist circumference, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, blood pressure, and fasting glucose. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate independent and combined association of CRF and BMI with MetS.ResultsResults showed that 154 (57.5%) and 70 (45.8%) of men and women had MetS, respectively. Compared to men with lower CRF or higher BMI, men with middle and higher CRF or middle and lower BMI were less likely to have MetS. Compared with ‘unfit and higher BMI’ group, ‘unfit and lower BMI’, ‘fit and higher BMI’, and ‘fit and lower BMI’ groups in men showed statistically significant decreased prevalences of MetS. However, no significant associations were found in women.ConclusionsThis study found significant independent and combined associations of CRF and BMI with MetS only in men, but not in women. However, prospective studies are warranted to confirm sex-specific associations of CRF and BMI with MetS.

Efficacy of antiobesity medications among breast cancer survivors taking aromatase inhibitors.

Aromatase inhibitors (AI) block estrogen synthesis and are used as long-term adjuvant treatment for breast cancer in postmenopausal women. AI use can be associated with weight gain that can lead to increased cardiometabolic risk. The response to anti-obesity medications (AOM) in patients using AI has yet to be studied. We sought to investigate weight loss outcomes of AOM in patients taking AI for breast cancer treatment. This is a matched retrospective cohort study of breast cancer survivors on AI using AOM (AOM/AI group). We compared their weight loss outcomes with a group of female patients with obesity, without a history of breast cancer or AI use, on AOM (AOM group). The primary endpoint was total body weight loss percentage (TBWL %) at the last follow-up. We performed mixed linear regression models, including diabetes status at baseline, to assess associations between use of AOM with/without AI with total body weight loss percentage (TBWL%). We included 124 patients: 62 in the AOM/AI group (63.6 ± 10years, body mass index [BMI] 34.3 ± 7.1kg/m2) and 62 in the AOM group (62.8 ± 9.9years, BMI 34.6 ± 6.5kg/m2). The mean time of follow up was 9.3 ± 3.5months, with no differences among the two groups. The AOM/AI group had a lower TBWL% compared to the AOM group at the last follow-up -5.3 ± 5.0 vs. -8.2 ± 6.3 (p = 0.005). The results remained significant after adjusting for diabetes status (p = 0.0002). At 12months, the AOM/AI group had a lower TBWL% compared to the AOM group 6.4 ± 0.8% vs. 9.8 ± 0.9% (p = 0.04). The percentage of patients achieving ≥ 5%, ≥ 10%, and ≥ 15% of weight loss at 12months was greater in the AOM compared to the AOM/AI group. Although the weight loss response was suboptimal, patients in the AOM/AI group had improvement in fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin, systolic blood pressure, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The use of AI in breast cancer survivors is associated with less weight loss response to AOM compared to patients without breast cancer history and who do not take AI. Studies are needed to assess the mechanisms behind the differential weight loss response to AOM in women taking AI.

Sex differences in risk factor relationships with subarachnoid haemorrhage and intracranial aneurysms: A Mendelian randomization study.

The prevalence of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) and incidence of aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) is higher in women than in men. Although several cardiometabolic and lifestyle factors have been related to the risk of IAs or aSAH, it is unclear whether there are sex differences in causal relationships of these risk factors. The aim of this study was to determine sex differences in causal relationships between cardiometabolic and lifestyle factors and risk of aSAH and IA. We conducted a sex-specific two-sample Mendelian randomization study using summary-level data from genome-wide association studies. We analysed low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C], triglycerides, non-HDL-C, total cholesterol, fasting glucose, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, smoking initiation, and alcohol use as exposures, and aSAH and IA (i.e. aSAH and unruptured IA combined) as outcomes. We found statistically significant sex differences in the relationship between genetically proxied non-HDL-C and aSAH risk, with odds ratios (ORs) of 0.72 (95% confidence interval 0.58, 0.88) in women and 1.01 (0.77, 1.31) in men (p-value for sex difference 0.044). Moreover, genetic liability to smoking initiation was related to a statistically significantly higher risk of aSAH in men compared to women (p-value for sex difference 0.007) with ORs of 3.81 (1.93, 7.52) and 1.12 (0.63, 1.99), respectively, and to a statistically significantly higher IA risk in men compared to women (p-value for sex difference 0.036) with ORs of 3.58 (2.04, 6.27) and 1.61 (0.98, 2.64), respectively. In addition, higher genetically proxied systolic and diastolic blood pressure were related to a higher risk of aSAH and IA in both women and men. Higher genetically proxied non-HDL-C was related to a lower risk of aSAH in women compared to men. Moreover, genetic liability to smoking initiation was associated with a higher risk for aSAH and IA in men compared to women. These findings may help improve understanding of sex differences in the development of aSAH and IA.

Relationship of Metabolic Syndrome With Hearing Loss

The prevalence of hearing loss has risen making it a significant public health issue. Hearing loss is caused by complicated pathophysiological pathways, with various risk factors identified, such as hereditary factors, inflammatory processes, systemic disorders, noise exposure, medicines, oxidative stress, and age. Metabolic syndrome is a medical condition characterized by the presence of hypertension, central obesity, hyperlipidemia and diabetes. Metabolic syndrome has been linked to several clinical diseases, such as stroke, heart attack, cardiovascular disease-related death, and diabetes. A cross-sectional study was done on 100 patients with metabolic syndrome which used specific cut-off points of waist circumference, fasting glucose levels, blood pressure, triglyceride, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels to diagnose the condition. Among these five criteria, at least three had to be met, and the presence of additional criteria indicated greater severity. Audiological evaluation with pure tone audiometry was done and recorded. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the significance of the results. The majority of the patients (62%) had unilateral hearing loss, amongst which sensory-neural type and moderately severe hearing loss were the most common type (67%) and severity (61%) of hearing loss respectively. Chi-square tests were done for the comparison of type, severity, and laterality of hearing loss with age, gender of the patients, and criteria fulfilled for metabolic syndrome. The severity of hearing loss had a statistically significant association with the age of the patients and the number of criteria fulfilled for metabolic syndrome with a p-value of 0.003. There was a statistically significant association between the severity of hearing loss and the age of the patients and the number of criteria fulfilled for metabolic syndrome with a p-value of 0.004. Metabolic syndrome affects the auditory system in several ways. It damages hearing and exacerbates presbycusis. Hearing loss worsens as components of the metabolic syndrome increase.

The Effect of Healthy Boba Pearl Drink on Post-Prandial Glucose

This study was a randomized controlled trial using a repeated experimental design with a pre-test and a post-test control group. The study subjects were women of childbearing age, aged 20‒30 years, with no diagnosed chronic diseases and with baseline fasting blood glucose levels less than 125 mg/dL. Participants were randomly assigned to treatment and control groups. The treatment group received 350 mL of healthy boba drink, while the control group received 350 mL of commercial boba drink. The healthy boba drink was made by mixing 67 mL of fresh milk, 133 mL of soy milk, 1 g of stevia sweetener, 100 g of red dragon fruit, and 40 g of healthy boba pearls. It contained 215 kcal of energy, 8.82 g of protein, 8.90 g of fat, 30.78 g of carbohydrate, and 1,808 g of fiber. Each group had an initial fasting blood glucose levels measurement before the intervention, and postprandial glucose levels were measured at the end of the intervention (one time of intervention). The collected data were analyzed univariately to analyze the effect of treatment on postprandial glucose using the independent t-test. The result indicated that the subjects in the treatment group and 96.2% of the subjects in the control group had fasting glucose levels less than 126 mg/dL. Both participants in the control and treatment groups had postprandial glucose levels less than 200 mg/dL. The mean glucose level was 89.49 mg/dL in the treatment group and 92.57 mg/dL in the control group. The study results showed that the treatment group that consumed the healthy boba drink had a lower average postprandial glucose level than the control group. The statistical test results showed that there was a significant effect of healthy boba drink consumption on postprandial glucose levels in the treatment group (p&lt;0.000). It is concluded that the healthy boba drink intervention had a significant effect (p&lt;0.000) on lowering blood glucose by 5.82 mg/dL after the initial treatment. The results of this study are a major first step for future work to develop a healthier boba drink.

Association between Vitamin D Deficiency and Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Individuals in Bangladesh: a Case Control Comparative Study

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a well-known healthcare problem globally. Several factors, including vitamin D level influence cardiovascular diseases. This study was aimed to determine the association of vitamin D (25 [OH] D) levels and serum lipid profiles with T2DM in Bangladesh. The data (n = 111) were collected from the patients’ register record book of BIHS General Hospital (Mirpur, Dhaka). Clinical (age, gender) and biochemical (fasting glucose level, after meal glucose level, HbA1C, lipid profile (HDL, LDL, TG, cholesterol) and 25-hydroxy vitamin D information were included for analysis. Independent sample t-test (two-tailed) was used to compare diabetic (cases, n = 70) and non-diabetic (control, n = 41) groups. Correlation analysis and multiple linear regression assessed unadjusted and adjusted relations between vitamin D levels and other variables, respectively. There was a statistically significant (p &lt;0.001) difference identified in vitamin D levels (mg/dl) between diabetic [mean (range): 23.3 (10.20-38.4)] and non-diabetic [mean (range): 26.9 (20.5-51.4)] subjects. Significantly higher triglyceride, total cholesterol and blood glucose (fasting and after meal) levels were observed in diabetic subjects compared to non-diabetic subjects. However, HDL level was significantly lower in diabetic patients than in non- diabetic patients (40.15 ± 5.56 vs. 42.74 ± 5.72 mg/dl). Pearson correlation analysis exhibited a significantly positive correlation of vitamin D deficiency with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) (r = 0.195, p = 0.040), total cholesterol (r = 0.567, p = 0.046), and LDL (r = 0.897, p = 0.003) levels. Multiple regression analysis showed that vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with higher glycated hemoglobin A1C (β = - 0.097, p = 0.039), fasting blood glucose (β = - 0.119, p = 0.011), total cholesterol (β = - 0.160, p = 001) and triglyceride (β = - 0.201, p &lt; 0.001) levels. Additional extended and thorough randomized controlled clinical trials are required to draw a more definitive conclusion and accumulate more substantial evidence regarding the positive impact of vitamin D supplements on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Bangladesh Pharmaceutical Journal 27(2): 175-181, 2024 (July)

Propagermanium as a Novel Therapeutic Approach for the Treatment of Endothelial Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes.

Propagermanium (PG) has immune modulating activity and anti-inflammatory properties. This work aimed to study the therapeutic efficacy of PG on endothelial and perivascular dysfunction associated with type 2 diabetes. Non-obese type 2 diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats were divided into four groups: (1) the control group; (2) the group treated with 50 mg/kg PG; (3) the group fed a high-fat diet (GKHFD); and (4) the group of GKHFD treated with 50 mg/kg PG. PG was given orally for 3 months. Several in vivo parameters and endothelial function were studied in aortas with perivascular adipose tissue PVAT (+) or without PVAT (-). We also determined the vascular inflammation and levels of CD36 in PVAT. In diabetic GK rats, PG did not affect the lipid profile or the results of the intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test. Instead, it improved the fasting glucose levels (18%, p < 0.01), insulin resistance (32%, p < 0.05), endothelial function (33 and 25% in aortas mounted with (+) or without PVAT (-), p < 0.05), and restored the anticontractile effect of the perivascular adipose tissue by reducing its inflammation (56%, p < 0.05) and oxidative stress profile (55%, p < 0.05). Due to its anti-inflammatory characteristics, PG likely improved endothelial dysfunction and restored the perivascular adipose tissue's anticontractile properties.

Apple Cider Vinegar in the Combat Against Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity – An Overview of Recent Research

ABSTRACT Introduction Apple Cider Vinegar, primarily composed of acetic acid, is gaining more recognition for its possible health advantages, especially its anti-diabetic effects and its beneficial impact on weight loss. Aim of this study The aim of this review is to discuss the current state of knowledge regarding the influence of ACV on glycemic indices and weight management in diabetic and obese patients, explore the possibilities of preventing comorbidities, and assess the safety of ACV consumption. Materials and Methods Research was performed based on Pubmed and Google Scholar databases. The literature was reviewed using the keywords : Apple Cider Vinegar, Diabetes, Glucose, Obesity. Results Studies have confirmed that apple cider vinegar exhibits significant anti-obesity and anti-diabetic properties. It demonstrates dose- and time-dependent effects on reducing fasting glucose, postprandial glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and lipid parameters. It positively impacts weight loss, reducing waist and hip circumference, and enhances tissue sensitivity to insulin. Additionally, apple cider vinegar has been shown to potentiate the effects of metformin, with liquid consumption yielding better results than pill form. Conclusions Although initial findings are encouraging, additional research with a larger participant pool and an extended duration of vinegar consumption is necessary. The brevity of the study period restricts the observation of long-term effects, and a larger sample size would improve the applicability of the findings. Key words: apple cider vinegar; diabetes; glucose; obesity