Improved Blood Glucose Levels Research Articles

Therapeutic effect of oral insulin-chitosan nanobeads pectin-dextrin shell on streptozotocin-diabetic male albino rats

The current study inspects the therapeutic effects of orally ingested insulin-loaded chitosan nanobeads (INS-CsNBs) with a pectin-dextrin (PD) coating on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes in Wistar rats. The study also assessed antioxidant effects in pancreatic tissue homogenate, insulin, C-peptide, and inflammatory markers interleukin-1 beta and interleukin-6 (IL-1β and IL-6) in serum. Additionally, histopathological and immunohistochemical examination of insulin granules, oxidative stress, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB P65), and sirtuin-1 (SIRT-1) protein detection, as well as gene expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2), and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) in pancreatic tissue were investigated. After induction of diabetes with STZ, rats were allocated into 6 groups: the normal control (C), the diabetic control (D), and the diabetic groups treated with INS-CsNBs coated with PD shell (50 IU/kg) (NF), free oral insulin (10 IU/kg) (FO), CsNBs-PD shell (50 IU/kg) (NB), and subcutaneous insulin (10 IU/kg) (Sc). The rats were treated daily for four weeks. Treatment of diabetic rats with INS-CsNBs coated with PD shell resulted in a significant improvement in blood glucose levels, elevated antioxidant activities, decreased NF-κB P65, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels, upregulated Nrf-2 and HO-1, in addition to a marked improvement in the histological architecture and integrity compared to the diabetic group. The effects of oral INS-CsNBs administration were comparable to those of subcutaneous insulin. In conclusion, oral administration of INS-loaded Cs-NBs with a pectin-dextrin shell demonstrated an ameliorative effect on STZ-induced diabetes, avoiding the drawbacks of subcutaneous insulin.

Highly purified hypochlorous acid water facilitates glucose metabolism and memory formation in type 2 diabetic mice associated with altered-gut microbiota

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is an endogenous oxidant and chlorinating agent in mammals that is effective against a broad range of microorganisms. However, the effects of exogenous HOCl on biological processes have not been reported. In this study, the effects of highly purified slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water (HP-HAW) were investigated. After the safety of oral administration of HP-HAW was confirmed, the effects of HP-HAW on glucose homeostasis were assessed in mice. HP-HAW treatment significantly improved blood glucose levels in hyperglycemic condition. Based on the 16S rRNA sequencing, HP-HAW treatment significantly increased the diversity and changed the composition of gut microbiota by decreasing the abundance of genus Romboutsia in mice fed normal chow. In obese mice, HP-HAW administration tended to improve glucose tolerance. HP-HAW also attenuated memory impairments and changes N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor mRNA expression in obese mice. HP-HAW treatment suppressed Il-6 mRNA expression in the hippocampus in type 2 diabetic mice. Overall, these results support HP-HAW as a potential therapeutic agent to improve or prevent glucose tolerance and memory decline via gut microbiota alteration.

Effect of Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplementation in Pediatric Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract Background Omega-3 fatty acids (O3FAs) are polyunsaturated fatty acids derived from fish oil. Beneficial effects of O3FA supplementation in a wide range of disease condition have been well studied. However; the role of O3FA in management of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) remains unclear and controversial. Objectives Therefore, we performed a randomized-controlled trial to assess the effect of oral O3FAssupplementation on glycemic control and lipid profile in pediatric patients with T1DM. Methods This study included 70 children and adolescents with T1DM. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups; intervention group and received oral O3FAs capsules (1 gram daily). The other group did not receive any supplementation and served as a control group. Both groups were followed-up for 6 months with assessment of fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c and fasting lipids. Results Supplementation with O3FAs was safe and well-tolerated. After 6 months, O3FAs adjuvant therapy for the intervention group resulted in a significant decrease of systolic blood pressure, insulin dose, FBG, HbA1c, triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol compared with baseline levels and compared with the control group (p < 0.05). On the other hand, T1DM patients without O3FAs adjuvant therapy (control group) had higher blood glucose levels and HbA1c at study end compared with baseline levels (p < 0.001). Conclusions O3FAs as an adjuvant therapy to insulin improved blood glucose levels, glycemic control and dyslipidemia leading to reduction in insulin dose in pediatric patients with T1DM.

Efficacy and Safety of Resveratrol in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract Background Resveratrol is a food component found in grapes, peanuts, cranberries.. It has a wide range of effects including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. Resveratrol could ameliorate diabetes in diabetic animals and it showed beneficial effects in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Objectives This randomized-controlled trial assessed the efficacy and safety of oral resveratrol supplementation on glycemic control and lipid profile in pediatric patients with T1DM. Methods This study included 60 children and adolescents with T1DM. Enrolled patients aged 12- 18 years with disease duration > 5 years. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups; intervention group who received oral resveratrol tablets 250 mg twice daily. The other group (did not receive any supplementation and served as a control group. Both groups were followed-up for 6 months with assessment of fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c% and fasting lipid profile. Results After 6 months, resveratrol therapy resulted in a significant decrease of FBG, HbA1c, triglycerides and total cholesterol compared with baseline levels and compared with the control group (p < 0.001). No significant difference was found between Patients with T1DM without resveratrol adjuvant therapy at baseline and at 6 months as regards any of the studied variables except for triglycerides and total cholesterol which were significantly increased at study end. Conclusions Resveratrol as an adjuvant therapy to insulin improved blood glucose levels, glycemic control and dyslipidemia without adverse effects in pediatric patients with T1DM.

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Lepidagathis pungens Nees Extracts as Novel Therapy Options in Streptozotocin and Nicotinamide-Induced Diabetes in Albino Wistar Rats

Diabetes mellitus remains a global health concern, necessitating innovative therapeutic approaches. This study explores the antidiabetic potential of aqueous and methanol extracts from Lepidagathis pungens Nees in albino Wistar rats induced with diabetes. Diabetes induction involves the administration of streptozotocin (STZ) and nicotinamide (NIC), mimicking pathological conditions observed in human diabetes. The study employed aqueous and methanol extracts of L. pungens Nees alongside a standard drug, glibenclamide. Diabetes induction was achieved through intraperitoneal injection of STZ and NIC. Extracts and the standard drug were orally administered, and various parameters, including blood glucose levels, body weight changes, insulin and hemoglobin levels, as well as liver and lipid profiles, were monitored at specified intervals. Furthermore, liver and pancreas tissues were evaluated histopathologically. In comparison to the diabetic group, both aqueous and methanol extracts demonstrated significant antidiabetic activity (p <0.001), with effects comparable to or better than the standard drug. A remarkable improvement in insulin and hemoglobin levels was observed, along with significant improvements in blood glucose levels and body weight changes. Furthermore, the extracts demonstrated positive effects on liver and lipid profiles, exhibiting potential to mitigate diabetes-induced complications. Histopathological studies revealed protective effects on liver and pancreas tissues, supporting the extracts’ therapeutic efficacy. In STZ- and NIC-induced diabetic rats, L. pungens Nees extracts show promising antidiabetic activity. The extracts demonstrated significant improvements in various physiological parameters, suggesting their potential as alternative or adjunctive therapies in the management of diabetes. Further research and clinical investigations are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and translate these findings into practical therapeutic applications.

Insulinoma in a Boxer- A case report

A nine-year-old female Boxer was presented to the Small Animal Medicine outpatient unit of Teaching Veterinary Hospital, Madras Veterinary College with the complaint of weakness and occasional ataxia. The general clinical, physical and neurological examinations were found to be normal except for the history of weakness and ataxia. The complete blood count was normal. Serum biochemistry revealed hypoglycemia and the amended insulin to glucose ratio was 187.4. Abdominal ultrasonography and radiography examination were unrewarding. Contrast CT revealed presence of multiple nodular lesions over the pancreas suggestive of insulinoma. The hypoglycemic episodes were managed with dextrose solution followed by dietary management, prednisolone and octreotide. The animal responded to treatment with an improvement in blood glucose level.

Analysis of The Effect of Comprehensive Nursing Intervention on Improving Blood Sugar Levels and Treatment Compliance in Elderly Patients with Diabetes

Objective: To analyze the effect of comprehensive nursing intervention on improving blood glucose levels and treatment compliance in elderly patients with diabetes. Methods: One hundred and forty-eight elderly patients with diabetes were selected and randomly divided into a control group and an observation group, with 74 cases each. The control group received routine nursing intervention and the observation group received comprehensive nursing intervention. The blood sugar levels, treatment compliance, and nursing satisfaction of the two groups of patients before and after intervention were compared. Results: After the intervention, the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (t = 7.729), 2 hours postprandial glucose (PPG) (t = 8.343), and HbA1c (t = 6.929) levels of patients in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.001). The observation group (71/95.95%) had a higher compliance rate than the control group (54/72.97%) (χ2 =14.877, P < 0.001). The comprehensive nursing satisfaction rate of the observation group (73/98.65%) was higher than that of the control group (56/75.68%) (χ2 =17.451, P < 0.001). Conclusion: In caring for elderly patients with diabetes, comprehensive nursing intervention effectively reduced patients’ blood sugar levels and improved treatment compliance and nursing satisfaction.

Dual targeting of inflammation and β-cell dysfunction for therapy of diabetes mellitus

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by β-cell loss and inflammation. From a therapeutic standpoint, it would be necessary to halt the uncontrolled inflammatory response and to enable the regeneration of the damaged β-cells. In this work, to achieve the latter two drug-loaded nanocarrier systems have been developed and evaluated in-vivo in DM mouse model. For β-cell proliferation, small chitosan (CS) nanoparticles (NPs) (201 ± 30 nm) were loaded with 4b, a selective inhibitor of DYRK1A (dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1A). To reduce inflammation, large poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) microparticles (MPs) (1172 ± 77 nm) were encapsulated with BI-605906, an inhibitor of IKKβ (inhibitor of kappa B kinase beta), acting as an inhibitor of an inhibitor. The EE% values were 90 ± 4.2 % and 87 ± 4.46 % for 4b–CS–NPs and BI-605906-PLGA-MPs, respectively. In-vivo biodistribution studies indicated the ability of both particles to accumulate in the pancreas. For CS-NPs, this was achieved as a function of the increased vascular permeability in DM, whereas for PLGA-MPs, this was achieved as function of macrophage uptake. Treatment with 4b–CS–NPs (but not the unloaded drug) reduced blood glucose levels (BGLs) and elevated cyclin D1 (CD1) gene expression indicating the successful ability of the NP system in promoting β-cells proliferation. Although treatment with free BI-605906 showed a modest reduction in BGLs, BI-605906-PLGA-MPs showed no improvement in BGLs. The latter could possibly be attributed to sub-optimal dosing. These results indicate that 4b–CS–NPs have the potential to lower BGLs by promoting β-cell proliferation and restoring pancreatic function. Further optimization is needed for BI-605906-PLGA-MPs, which may enhance therapeutic outcome by dual therapy.

Tailored Meal-Type Food Provision for Diabetes Patients Can Improve Routine Blood Glucose Management in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Crossover Study.

This study aimed to determine whether patients with type 2 diabetes can benefit from a meal plan designed based on diabetes management guidelines to improve blood glucose levels. Participants were divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention group consumed a diabetic diet for 2 weeks, while the control group consumed their normal diet. After 2 weeks, the groups switched their dietary regimens. The participants' demographic and clinical characteristics were evaluated, including factors such as blood pressure, blood lipid levels, weight and waist circumference, blood glucose levels (self-monitored and continuously monitored), nutritional status, and blood-based markers of nutrient intake. The dietary intervention group improved waist circumference, body fat percentage, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride levels, and glucose. The energy composition ratio of carbohydrates and proteins changed favorably, and sugar intake decreased. In addition, the proportion of continuous glucose monitoring readings within the range of 180-250 mg/dL was relatively lower in the intervention group than that of the control group. Meals designed based on diabetes management guidelines can improve clinical factors, including stable blood glucose levels in daily life, significantly decrease the carbohydrate energy ratio, and increase the protein energy ratio. This study can help determine the role of dietary interventions in diabetes management and outcomes.

Glycemic homeostasis of ultrasound-assisted Murraya koenigii (Linn.) Spreng. bark extract in streptozocin-induced diabetes in rats

AbstractNumerous diseases have been linked to oxidative stress, emphasizing its role in pathogenicity. This study employed an ultrasound-assisted extraction process to obtain extracts from the bark of Murraya koenigii (L) Spreng. A thorough analysis was conducted on these dry extracts to determine their total phenolic and flavonoid content across four solvent fractions: n-hexane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and aqueous. Among the solvent fractions, ethyl acetate and n-butanol showed higher levels of total flavonoid content (TFC) and total phenolic content (TPC) compared to the others. The ethyl acetate fraction displayed the highest TPC (58.27 ± 4.20 mg GAE/g) and TFC (878.67 ± 40.38 mg QE/g) at 250 µg/mL concentration. Furthermore, the in-vitro antioxidant capacity of the ethyl acetate fraction was assessed for its ability to scavenge DPPH and hydrogen peroxide, revealing a concentration-dependent effect with IC50 values of 154.6 ± 6.2 and 55.12 ± 4.28 μg/mL, respectively. In a controlled experiment using streptozocin-induced diabetic rats, administering UMBE-EA at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg notably improved blood glucose levels and body weight. Furthermore, several biochemical indicators, such as total protein levels, serum insulin, and the activities of enzymes like SGOT, SGPT, and ALP, as well as liver glycogen, showed significant enhancements. The antioxidant enzyme activities, including SOD, CAT, and GSH, returned to more favorable levels, and TABAR levels were normalized. In conclusion, the findings from this study strongly suggest that UMBE-EA possesses substantial anti-diabetic efficacy in Wistar rats, primarily attributed to its remarkable antioxidant properties and capacity to scavenge free radicals. These results provide valuable insights into the potential therapeutic benefits of UMBE-EA in diabetes management.

The Role of Obesity in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus-An Overview.

Obesity or excessive weight gain is identified as the most important and significant risk factor in the development and progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) in all age groups. It has reached pandemic dimensions, making the treatment of obesity crucial in the prevention and management of type 2 DM worldwide. Multiple clinical studies have demonstrated that moderate and sustained weight loss can improve blood glucose levels, insulin action and reduce the need for diabetic medications. A combined approach of diet, exercise and lifestyle modifications can successfully reduce obesity and subsequently ameliorate the ill effects and deadly complications of DM. This approach also helps largely in the prevention, control and remission of DM. Obesity and DM are chronic diseases that are increasing globally, requiring new approaches to manage and prevent diabetes in obese individuals. Therefore, it is essential to understand the mechanistic link between the two and design a comprehensive approach to increase life expectancy and improve the quality of life in patients with type 2 DM and obesity. This literature review provides explicit information on the clinical definitions of obesity and type 2 DM, the incidence and prevalence of type 2 DM in obese individuals, the indispensable role of obesity in the pathophysiology of type 2 DM and their mechanistic link. It also discusses clinical studies and outlines the recent management approaches for the treatment of these associated conditions. Additionally, in vivo studies on obesity and type 2 DM are discussed here as they pave the way for more rigorous development of therapeutic approaches.

Corn stigma ameliorates hyperglycemia in zebrafish and GK rats of type 2 diabetes

Ethnopharmacological relevanceCornstigma (CS), derived from the stigma and style of gramineous plant Zeamays. The medicinal use of CS can be traced back to DianNanMateriaMedica. LingnanMedicinalPlantsCompendium records its effectiveness in ameliorating diabetes. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia and the consequent chronic complications of kidney, heart, brain and other organs, which pose a significant threat to human health. CS has shown great potential in relieving hyperglycemia associated with diabetes. However, the mechanism of CS in treating diabetes remains unclear. Aim of the studyTo explore the pathogenesis of diabetes and the mechanism of CS improving hyperglycemia in diabetes. Materials and methodsWe measured apigenin and luteolin contents in CS by UPLC/MS/MS method. Selecting Wistar rats as normal group, and GK rats as model group. For rats, we detected glucose and lipid metabolism indicators, including GHb, AST, ALT, U-Glu, UA, U-TP, U-ALB, and ACR after treatment. For zebrafish, we utilized alloxan and sucrose to establish the diabetes model. Measuring zebrafish blood glucose is employed to evaluate the hypoglycemic capability of CS. In order to explore the mechanism of CS in treating diabetes, we sequenced the transcriptome of zebrafish, compared differentially expressed genes of normal, diabetic, and CS-treated group, and validated multiple enrichment pathways by PCR. ResultsCS can improve blood glucose levels in both GK rats and diabetic zebrafish. For rats, CS partially restored glucose and lipid metabolism indicators. Transcriptome data from zebrafish showed a close correlation with steroid biosynthesis. The RNA-Sequencing was consistent with PCR results, indicating that CS downregulated gene (fdft1,lss,cyp51) expression concerned with steroid biosynthesis pathway in the diabetes model. ConclusionCS effectively improved blood glucose levels, regulated glucose and lipid metabolism by suppressing gene expression in steroid biosynthesis pathway, and ameliorated hyperglycemia. Our research provides valuable insights for CS in the treatment of diabetes, and proposes a new strategy for selecting clinical medications for diabetes.

Exercise under hypoxia on glucose tolerance in type 2 diabetes mellitus risk individuals: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

To analyze the impact of exercise under hypoxic exposure versus normoxic exposure on blood glucose level, insulin level, and insulin sensitivity in people at risk of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We systematically performed electronic searching on PubMed, Web of Science, ProQuest, and Scopus. Primary studies that met the inclusion criteria were analyzed using Revman 5.4.1. Nine randomized controlled trials were included in this meta-analysis. We found that physical exercise under hypoxic exposure had no significant effect on improving blood glucose levels, insulin levels, and insulin sensitivity in the elderly and sedentary people compared to normoxic condition. However, physical exercise during hypoxic exposure had a significant effect on lowering blood glucose levels in overweight/obese individuals (pooled Standardized Mean Difference = 0.29; 95% confidence interval = 0.01-0.57; P = 0.04). Exercising under hypoxic exposure can be an alternative strategy for reducing blood glucose levels in overweight/obese people. Nevertheless, in other populations at risk of T2DM, exercising in hypoxic conditions gives similar results to normoxic conditions.

Retinopatia cukrzycowa proliferacyjna z obustronnym obrzękiem tarczy nerwu wzrokowego – wyrównanie glikemii jako złoty standard leczenia. Opis przypadku

IntroductionOne of the microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus is a diabetic retinopathy which turns out to be the main reason of newly developed blindness in individuals of reproductive age in developed countries.PurposeThe aim of this study was to report a case of 23-years old patient which was provided with intensive therapy with the goal of achieving near-normal glycemia. Improved blood-glucose levels lead to inhibition and regression of diabetic retinopathy and improvement of visual acuity.ResultsImprovement of best corrected visual acuity of both eyes (righteye 0.8, left eye 0.7) was achieved. We observed significant improvement in clinical manifestations of diabetic retinopathy including regression of microvasular abnormalities and considerable reduction of optic disc edema.ConclusionsBesides of invasive procedures such as laseroterapy, steroid or anti vascular endothelial growth factor injections and vitrecotmy, correct treatment of diabetes mellitus complications such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy should be mainly focused on maintaining normal blood-glucoselevels.

Four kinds of traditional Chinese exercise therapy in the treatment of type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

ObjectiveTo perform an evidence-based evaluation of the clinical efficacy of Taijiquan, Baduanjin, Yijinjing and Wuqinxi in interventions for type 2 diabetes.DesignA systematic review and network meta-analysis.MethodsThe comprehensive search included Chinese and other language databases such as the MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, Excerpta Medica Database (Embase), The Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, China Scientific Journal Database, VIP and China Biomedical Literature Database (CBM). Clinical randomized controlled trials of four traditional Chinese exercise therapies in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, including Taijiquan, Baduanjin, Yijinjing and Wuqinxi, were retrieved. The search time was conducted from the establishment of the database to 30 October 2022. Two researchers screened the documents that met the inclusion criteria, extracted data according to the preset table and evaluated the methodological quality of the included studies according to the quality evaluation tools recommended by the Cochrane System Reviewer Manual V.5.1. The R language, Stata and ADDIS statistical software programs were used to conduct statistics and analysis of intervention measures.ResultsA total of 33 randomized controlled trials with 2609 patients were identified. All patients were from China. The results of the network meta-analysis showed that Taijiquan ranked the best for improving HbA1c, 2-h postprandial blood glucose (2hPG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and insulin sensitivity index indicator levels; Yijinjing reduced fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and total cholesterol (TC) indicator levels for the best probability ranking; Baduanjin improved the triglyceride (TG) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) probability ranking the most. When the training period was less than 12 weeks, Baduanjin had better effects in improving 2hPG, TC, TG, HDL-C and LDL-C indicator levels. Taijiquan had better effects in reducing FPG levels. When the training period was 12 weeks, the effect of Yijinjing in improving FPG, HbAlc, TC and HDL-C levels was better than that in other traditional Chinese exercise, and Taijiquan had better effects in improving 2hPG, TG and LDL-C indicator levels. When the training period was longer than 12 weeks, Taijiquan had better effects in improving FPG, HbAlc, 2hPG and LDL-C indicator levels, and Baduanjin had better effects in improving TC, TG and HDL-C indicator levels.ConclusionThe four traditional Chinese exercise therapies can improve blood glucose levels, blood lipid levels and insulin-related indicators of type 2 diabetes to varying degrees. Studies have shown that Taijiquan has a better targeted treatment effect on type 2 diabetes.Systematic review registrationCRD42020214786.Protocol publishedWe published the protocol article “Network meta-analysis of four kinds of traditional Chinese exercise therapy in the treatment of type 2 diabetes: Protocol for a systematic review” in the BMJ Open magazine 2021, Issue 11, Volume 7.

Prophylactic and Curative Effect of Boswellia Serrata on Blood Glucose Level and Architecture of Pancreas in Diabetic Mice Induced by Alloxan

Background and objectives. Herbal medicines have gained significant attention from the scientific community for treating and managing diabetes in both developing and developed countries. Boswellia serrata, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, has been historically used to treat various diseases. This study aimed to determine the effect of Boswellia serrata on body weight, blood glucose level, and pancreas architecture in alloxan-induced diabetes in albino mice. Methods. Forty albino male mice, aged 10 to 12 weeks and weighing between 24 and 34 grams, were divided into four groups of ten each. The first group was the negative control group, and the second group was the diabetic positive control group that received 120 mg/kg alloxan intraperitoneally. The third group received a single injection of alloxan at a dose of 120 mg/kg bw and was treated with Boswellia serrata macerated at a dose of 150 mg/kg bw for four weeks. The fourth group received orally Boswellia serrata extract at a dose of 150 mg/kg for two weeks, followed by a single injection of alloxan at a dose of 120 mg/kg, and were left for two weeks. Results. This study found that Boswellia serrata has antidiabetic properties in diabetic mice, as it significantly reduced blood sugar levels compared to the diabetic group. Additionally, histological analyses of the groups treated with B. serrata showed a significant improvement in the harmful effects of alloxan on pancreatic islet cells. Conclusion. Boswellia serrata has shown a notable improvement in the detrimental effect of alloxan on pancreatic islet cells, and its curative effect has been proven to be better than its prophylactic effect. This is supported by the improved blood glucose levels and the histological changes that were more pronounced.

Brown Seaweed Consumption as a Promising Strategy for Blood Glucose Management: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis

Diabetes is a chronic condition that can lead to various complications; therefore, there is a need to emphasize prevention and management. Dietary interventions, such as the Mediterranean diet or calorie-restricted regimens, coupled with exercise-induced weight reduction, have been recommended for enhancing diabetes management. Seaweeds contain various functional components, such as polyphenols and fucoidan, which have been reported to exert multiple benefits, including blood glucose regulation, improved intestinal health, and enhanced of lipid profiles. The association between blood glucose and seaweed consumption has been established in previous research. We searched the PubMed, RISS, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library databases to identify relevant studies after applying the selection/exclusion criteria, and 23 studies were ultimately included in this analysis. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software version 4.0 was used to assess statistical significance and heterogeneity. In this meta-analysis, postprandial blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) levels demonstrated significant improvements in the seaweed group compared to the control group. Conversely, fasting blood glucose and insulin levels did not show significant associations with seaweed consumption. Subgroup analysis revealed that a high dose (1000 mg or more) was more beneficial than a low dose, and seaweeds such as Laminaria digitata, Undaria pinnatifida, Acophyllum nodosum, and Fucus vesiculosus were found to be more effective at improving blood glucose levels than control treatments. Therefore, based on our research, seaweed supplementation appears to be a promising strategy for reducing postprandial blood glucose, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR levels, thereby enabling better blood glucose management and leading to a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes.

Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] improved blood glucose and restored histopathological alterations in splenic tissues in a rat model with streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes through CD8+ T cells and NF-kβ expression.

Diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic syndrome that involves dysfunction of spleen and other lymphoid organs. Medicinal plants, including okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench), were used widely for diabetes treatment. Scarce data are available about the potential anti-diabetic effects of okra, the histopathological alterations in splenic tissues and the mechanistic pathways underlying this association. The current research investigated the effects of okra pod extract on the biochemical parameters and expression of CD8+ T cells and nuclear factor kappa (NF-k) B and releasing proinflammatory cytokines in spleen in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat models. A total of 50 mature male Wister albino rats were divided into five isolated groups; the first served as control (untreated) animals, the second (DM group) diabetes induced by STZ (at a dose of 45 mg/kg body weight, administered intraperitoneally), the third group (DM + Insulin): diabetic rats administered insulin subcutaneously (10 units/kg bw/day) daily for 4 weeks, the fourth group was administrated 400 mg/kg okra extract daily for 4 weeks, and diabetic induced rats in the fifth group were administrated 400 mg/kg okra extract daily for 4 weeks. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity in Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench was studied, and the content of phenolic compounds in okra pods was estimated using high-performance liquid chromatography. Diabetes induction led to decreased body weight, increased blood glucose levels. Capsular thickness was significantly increased, white pulp was widely dispersed, and mature lymphocytes in the periphery were also drastically decreased, with thick follicular arteries, necrosis, and depletion of lymphocytes in the germinal center. Red pulp revealed severe congestion and degenerative changes, deposition of hemosiderin granules and lymphocytic depletion. In addition, collagen fiber deposition was increased also in this group. The induction of diabetes exaggerated NF-kβ expression and mediated downregulation of the expression of CD8+ T cells in spleen tissue. Interestingly, oral administration of okra extracts post diabetes induction could mitigate and reverse such adverse effects. Altogether, our study points out the potential benefits of okra in improving blood glucose levels and restoring histopathological alterations in splenic tissues through CD8+ T cells and NF-kβ expression in a diabetic rat model.

Effects of Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Cardiometabolic-Related Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: A Systematic Review.

Growing evidence suggests maternal stress contributes to the development of adverse pregnancy outcomes that are associated with cardiovascular and cardiometabolic risk in birthing persons. Mindfulness-based interventions may positively affect psychological stress in pregnancy and, in turn, reduce stress. However, few study authors have examined the effects of mindfulness-based interventions on adverse pregnancy outcomes that heighten cardiovascular risk. The aim of this study was to appraise available literature examining the effects of mindfulness-based interventions delivered during pregnancy on adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with future cardiovascular and cardiometabolic disease risk. In this systematic review, multiple electronic databases were searched using major keywords, including "mindfulness-based intervention," "pregnancy," "preterm delivery," "gestational diabetes," "small for gestational age," "preeclampsia," and "hypertension in pregnancy" during February 2023. Six studies using mindfulness-based interventions during pregnancy were included. The review indicated that these interventions were largely effective at reducing prenatal stress; however, the overall effects of interventions were mixed concerning their impact on pregnancy complications. Study authors examining the effects on gestational diabetes-related outcomes reported significant improvements in blood glucose levels, hemoglobin A 1c , and oral glucose tolerance. Outcomes were mixed or inconclusive related to the effects of interventions on the incidence of preterm birth, birth of a small-for-gestational-age newborn, and preeclampsia. Mitigating cardiovascular and cardiometabolic risk-associated adverse pregnancy outcomes through mindfulness-based approaches may represent an emerging field of study. The few studies and limited, mixed findings synthesized in this review indicate that high-validity studies are warranted to examine the effects of mindfulness-based interventions on pregnancy complications that contribute to cardiovascular-related maternal morbidity and suboptimal life course health for diverse birthing persons.

The effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors as an adjunct to insulin in patients with type 1 diabetes assessed by continuous glucose monitoring: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AimsPatients undergoing insulin-based therapy for type 1 diabetes often experience poor glycemic control characterized by significant fluctuations. This study was undertaken to analyze the effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2Is), as an adjunct to insulin, on time in range (TIR) and glycemic variability in patients with type 1 diabetes, using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). In addition, we examined which type of SGLT2I yielded a superior effect compared to others. MethodsWe conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and clinical trial registry websites, retrieving all eligible randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published up until February 2023. We analyzed the mean TIR, mean amplitude of glucose excursions (MAGE), mean daily glucose (MDG), diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), standard deviation (SD), total insulin dose, and severe hypoglycemia to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SGLT2Is. A random-effects model was also employed. ResultsThis study encompassed 15 RCTs. The meta-analysis revealed that the use of SGLT2Is as an adjuvant therapy to insulin led to a significant increase in TIR (MD = 10.78, 95%CI = 9.33–12.23, I2 = 42 %, P < 0.00001) and a decrease in SD (MD = −0.38, 95%CI = −0.50 to −0.26, I2 = 0 %, P < 0.00001), MAGE (MD = −0.92, 95%CI = −1.17 to −0.67, I2 = 19 %, P < 0.00001), MDG(MD = −1.01, 95%CI = −1.32 to −0.70, I2 = 48 %, P < 0.00001), and total insulin dose (MD = −5.81, 95%CI = −7.81 to −3.82, I2 = 32 %, P < 0.00001). No significant increase was observed in the rate of severe hypoglycemia (RR = 1.04, 95 % CI = 0.76–1.43, P = 0.80). However, SGLT2I therapy was associated with increased DKA occurrence (RR = 2.79, 95 % CI = 1.42–5.48; P = 0.003, I2 = 16 %). In addition, the subgroup analyses based on the type of SGLT2Is revealed that dapagliflozin might exhibit greater efficacy compared to other SGLT2Is across most outcomes. ConclusionsSGLT2Is exhibited a positive effect on improving blood glucose level fluctuations. Subgroup analysis showed that dapagliflozin appeared to have more advantages. However, giving due consideration to preventing adverse effects, particularly DKA, is paramount. RegistrationProspero CRD42023408276.