Effects of Sleep Disorders on Hemoglobin A1c Levels in Type 2 Diabetic Patients

Background:

Studies have reported the presence of sleep disorders in approximately 50–70% of diabetic patients, and these may contribute to poor glycemic control, diabetic neuropathy, and overnight hypoglycemia. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of sleep disorders in diabetic patients, and to investigate possible relationships between scores of these sleep disorders and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and diabetic parameters (fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c], and lipid levels).

Methods:

We used the Berlin questionnaire (BQ) for OSAS, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) to determine the frequency of sleep disorders and their possible relationships with fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and lipid levels.

Results:

The study included 585 type 2 diabetic patients admitted to family medicine clinics between October and December 2014. Sleep, sleep quality, and sleep scores were used as the dependent variables in the analysis. The ESS scores showed that 54.40% of patients experienced excessive daytime sleepiness, and according to the PSQI, 64.30% experienced poor-quality sleep. The BQ results indicated that 50.20% of patients were at high-risk of OSAS. HbA1c levels correlated significantly with the ESS and PSQI results (r = 0.23, P < 0.001 and r = 0.14, P = 0.001, respectively), and were significantly higher in those with high-risk of OSAS as defined by the BQ (P < 0.001). These results showed that HbA1c levels were related to sleep disorders.

Conclusions:

Sleep disorders are common in diabetic patients and negatively affect the control of diabetes. Conversely, poor diabetes control is an important factor disturbing sleep quality. Addressing sleep disturbances in patients who have difficulty controlling their blood glucose has dual benefits: Preventing diabetic complications caused by sleep disturbance and improving diabetes control.     

Euthyroid sick syndrome in children with diabetic ketoacidosis

Objectives:

To investigate characteristics of euthyroid sick syndrome (ESS) in children with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

Methods:

This retrospective study was carried out between May 2010 and April 2013 at the Pediatric Department of Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Shandong, China. Diabetic ketoacidosis children were divided into 2 groups: euthyroidism (group one, n=30) and ESS (group 2, n=40). C-peptide, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), bicarbonate, anion gap (AG), free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), and thyrotropin (TSH) levels were measured before and after 7 days of insulin treatment. Daily blood glucose (BG) profiles were recorded.

Results:

Glycosylated hemoglobin, AG, the mean daily BG, and fasting blood glucose levels were higher, and bicarbonate, FT3, FT4, and TSH levels were lower in group 2 than in group one (all p<0.05). Free triiodothyronine (r=-0.593, p<0.001) and FT4 (r=-0.402, p=0.001) were negatively correlated with HbA1c. Free triiodothyronine (r=-0.438, p<0.001) and FT4 (r=-0.505, p<0.001) were negatively correlated with AG, and FT3 (r=0.503, p<0.001) and FT4 (r=0.448, p<0.001) were positively correlated with bicarbonate.

Conclusion:

Diabetic ketoacidosis children with ESS have poor diabetic control. Free thyroid hormones are associated with the severity of DKA.The euthyroid sick syndrome (ESS), also known as low triiodothyronine (T3) syndrome or nonthyroidal illness syndrome, reflects abnormalities in thyroid hormones in patients with acute or chronic stress and illnesses.1 In mild illness, the abnormalities include decreased serum T3 and free triiodothyronine (FT3) levels. In severe illness, there are decreased serum T3, FT3, thyroxine (T4), free thyroxine (FT4), and thyrotropin (TSH) levels.Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), particularly diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), is closely associated with these thyroid hormone abnormalities in ESS.2 The presence of ESS as a predictor of poor prognosis is related to the severity of the illness. It has been shown that serum T3 and T4 levels are correlated with poor glycemic control and ketoacidosis in T1DM.3 It is unclear whether free thyroid hormones are correlated with poor diabetic control in DKA children. In the present study, we investigated characteristics of ESS in DKA children. The correlation between free thyroid hormones and diabetic control were evaluated.     

Prevalence of dysglycaemic events among inpatients with diabetes mellitus: a Singaporean perspective

INTRODUCTION

As the effectiveness of intensive glycaemic control is unclear and recommended glycaemic targets are inconsistent, this study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of dysglycaemia among hospitalised patients with diabetes mellitus in an Asian population and evaluate the current standards of inpatient glycaemic control.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study was conducted at a secondary hospital. Point-of-care blood glucose (BG) values, demographic data, medical history, glycaemic therapy and clinical characteristics were recorded. Dysglycaemia prevalence was calculated as proportions of BG-monitored days with at least one reading exceeding the cut points of 8, 10 and 15 mmol/L for hyperglycaemia, and below the cut point of 4 mmol/L for hypoglycaemia.

RESULTS

Among the 288 patients recruited, hyperglycaemia was highly prevalent (90.3%, 81.3% and 47.6% for the respective cut points), while hypoglycaemia was the least prevalent (18.8%). Dysglycaemic patients were more likely than normoglycaemic patients to have poorer glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels (8.4% ± 2.6% vs. 7.3% ± 1.9%; p = 0.002 for BG > 10 mmol/L) and longer lengths of stay (10.1 ± 8.2 days vs. 6.8 ± 4.7 days; p = 0.007 for BG < 4 mmol/L). Hyperglycaemia was more prevalent in patients on more intensive treatment regimens, such as basal-bolus combination therapy and the use of both insulin and oral hypoglycaemic agents (100.0% and 96.0%, respectively; p < 0.001 for BG > 10 mmol/L).

CONCLUSION

Inpatient glycaemic control is suboptimal. Factors (e.g. type of treatment regimen, discipline and baseline HbA1c) associated with greater prevalence of dysglycaemia should be given due consideration in patient management.     

The ABC of diabetes. How many patients are able to achieve the goal laid down by American Diabetes Association?

Background

To study the number of patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus who achieve the glycemic, blood pressure and LDL-Cholesterol targets as per American Diabetes Association, Standard of Care for Management of Diabetes.

Methods

Hundred patients of Type 2 Diabetes mellitus were recruited from December 2008 to January 2009 from an Endocrinology OPD of tertiary care hospital and followed up for six months. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), blood pressure (BP) and LDL-Cholesterol (LDL) were estimated at baseline and prevalence of those at target (HbA1c <7%, BP < 130/80 mm Hg, LDL < 100 mg/dl) was documented and repeated at three and six months to monitor improvement in the number of patients at target and trend in improvement of individual parameters.

Results

The percentage of patients at target at baseline and six months for HbA1c was (45% vs. 55% p = 0.101), BP < 130/80 mm Hg (27% vs. 25%) and LDL <100 mg/dl (37% vs. 40% p = 0.386). All three parameters were at target in one patient and three patients at six months period. Mean values at baseline and six months of HbA1c 7.46% (95% CI 7.17–7.75) vs 7.21% (95% CI 6.9–7.52), Systolic BP 138 mm Hg (95% CI 135–141), Diastolic BP 86 mm Hg (95% CI 84–86) and LDL 114 mg/dl (95%CI 107–121) vs. 110 mg/dl (95%CI 105–116) did not show significant improvement (p for trend).

Conclusion

Standards of care for HbA1c, blood pressure and LDL remains to be achieved in majority of the diabetic patients.     

Investigation of hypoglycemic,hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities of aqueous extract of Terminalia paniculata bark in diabetic rats

Objective

To investigate the hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities of aqueous extract of Terminalia paniculata bark (AETPB) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

Methods

Acute toxicity was studied in rats after the oral administration of AETPB to determine the dose to assess hypoglycemic activity. In rats, diabetes was induced by injection of STZ (60 mg/kg, i.p.) and diabetes was confirmed 72 h after induction, and then allowed for 14 days to stabilize blood glucose level. In diabetic rats, AETPB was orally given for 28 days and its effect on blood glucose and body weight was determined on a weekly basis. At the end of the experimental day, fasting blood sample was collected to estimate the haemoglobin (Hb), glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), serum creatinine, urea, serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum glutamate-oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and insulin levels. The liver and kidney were collected to determine antioxidants levels in diabetic rats.

Results

Oral administration of AETPB did not exhibit toxicity and death at a dose of 2 000 mg/kg. AETPB treated diabetic rats significantly (P<0.001, P<0.01 and P<0.05) reduced elevated blood glucose, HbA1c, creatinine, urea, SGPT and SGOT levels when compared with diabetic control rats. The body weight, Hb, insulin and total protein levels were significantly (P<0.001, P<0.01 and P<0.05) increased in diabetic rats treated with AETPB compared to diabetic control rats. In diabetic rats, AETPB treatment significantly reversed abnormal status of antioxidants and lipid profile levels towards near normal levels compared to diabetic control rats.

Conclusions

Present study results confirm that AETPB possesses significant hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities in diabetic condition.     

Effect of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Therapy on Glycemic Excursions and Insulin Sensitivity in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea-hypopnea Syndrome and Type 2 Diabetes

Background:

For patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the night sleep interruption and intermittent hypoxia due to apnea or hypopnea may induce glycemic excursions and reduce insulin sensitivity. This study aimed to investigate the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy in patients with OSAHS and T2DM.

Methods:

Continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) was used in 40 patients with T2DM and newly diagnosed OSAHS. The measurements were repeated after 30 days of CPAP treatment. Subsequently, insulin sensitivity and glycohemoglobin (HbA1c) were measured and compared to the pretreatment data.

Results:

After CPAP therapy, the CGMS indicators showed that the 24-h mean blood glucose (MBG) and the night time MBG were significantly reduced (P < 0.05 and P = 0.03, respectively). The mean ambulatory glucose excursions (MAGEs) and the mean of daily differences were also significantly reduced (P < 0.05 and P = 0.002, respectively) compared to pretreatment levels. During the night, MAGE also significantly decreased (P = 0.049). The differences between the highest and lowest levels of blood glucose over 24 h and during the night were significantly lower than prior to CPAP treatment (P < 0.05 and P = 0.024, respectively). The 24 h and night time durations of high blood glucose (>7.8 mmol/L and > 11.1 mmol/L) decreased (P < 0.05 and P < 0.05, respectively) after the treatment. In addition, HbA1c levels were also lower than those before treatment (P < 0.05), and the homeostasis model assessment index of insulin resistance was also significantly lower than before CPAP treatment (P = 0.034).

Conclusions:

CPAP therapy may have a beneficial effect on improving not only blood glucose but also upon insulin sensitivity in T2DM patients with OSAHS. This suggests that CPAP may be an effective treatment for T2DM in addition to intensive diabetes management.     

Relationship Between Serum Zinc Level and Microvascular Complications in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Background:

Previous studies suggested that zinc level was related to a certain diabetic microvascular complication. However, the relationship between zinc level and all the microvascular complications in type 2 diabetic patients remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between zinc level and each diabetic microvascular complication and identify the features related to low serum zinc level.

Methods:

We included the hospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) at our department from May 30, 2013 to March 31, 2014. We initially compared the serum zinc levels between patients with specific microvascular complications and those without. We then analyzed the association between zinc level and each microvascular complication. Furthermore, we identified the unique features of patients with high and low serum zinc levels and analyzed the risk factors related to low zinc level.

Results:

The 412 patients included 271 with microvascular complications and 141 without any microvascular complications. Serum zinc level was significantly lower in patients with diabetic retinopathy (P < 0.001), diabetic nephropathy (DN, P < 0.001), or diabetic peripheral neuropathy (P = 0.002) compared with patients without that specific complication. Lower zinc level was an independent risk factor for DN (odds ratio = 0.869, 95% confidence interval = 0.765–0.987, P < 0.05). The subjects with lower serum zinc level had manifested a longer duration of diabetes, higher level of hemoglobin A1c, higher prevalence of hypertension and microvascular complications, and lower fasting and 2-h C-peptide levels.

Conclusions:

Lower serum zinc level in T2D patients was related to higher prevalence of diabetic microvascular complications, and represented as an independent risk factor for DN. Patients with lower zinc level were more likely to have a longer duration of diabetes, poorer glucose control, and worse β-cell function.     

Exploring the safety measures by doctors on after-hours house call services

Background

Aggression against doctors involved in after-hours house calls (AHHC) is widely perceived to be high. It is, however, unclear how doctors who perform this service manage the risk of aggressive patients during home visits.

Aims

The aim of this paper is to explore if and how doctors manage the risk of violence against them during AHHC.

Methods

A survey was designed and administered to all 300 Australian-based doctors engaged in AHHC under the National Home Doctor Service (NHDS). The survey was conducted from September 2014 to November 2014.

Results

There were 172 responses (57.3 per cent). Only 43 per cent of respondents adopted personal protective measures. The remaining 57 per cent had none; of those 6 per cent had never considered protective measures, and 31.8 per cent were aware of the risk of violence, but were unsure of what to do. Measures adopted include the use of chaperones/security personnel (34.1 per cent), dependence on surgery policies (31.2 per cent), de-escalation techniques (15.2 per cent), panic buttons (7.2 per cent), personal alarms (6.1 per cent), and others (6.5 per cent). Females were more likely to adopt personal protective measures than males (OR 4.94; p<0.01; CI 1.70–14.34), and Australian-trained doctors were less likely to do so relative to overseas-trained doctors (OR 0.35; p=0.04; CI 0.12–0.99).

Conclusion

Just over half of the doctors involved in AHHC took no precautions against aggressive attacks while on duty, and nearly one-third relied on the policies of their employing surgeries.     

Serum vitamin D and parathyroid hormone profiles in patients with various stages of renal disease

Background

The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among Saudi population has increased recently. The social and pathological factors, including kidney disease that may have influenced the vitamin status have not been investigated in the Hail population.

Aims

The present study aims to: (1) investigate changes in the serum vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, serum calcium, and phosphate levels in Saudi patients with kidney disease; and (2) elucidate the other possible physiological factors that may have influence on the vitamin status.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out in King Khalid Hospital in Hail, Saudi Arabia. The database of kidney disease patients that attended the Kidney Unit between September 2012 and June 2013 was searched and data classified according to the estimated glomerular filtration rate into stages 1–4. Beside the kidney function parameters, serum calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone were measured.

Results

Out of the 167 patients who visited the kidney unit, the data of 96 patients was included in the study. The results exhibited significant reductions in serum vitamin D level in stage 4 patients by 52.05 per cent with significant increase in the serum PTH level amounting to 3.5-fold. Kidney impairment at stage 4 caused significant increase in the serum phosphate level by 15.74 per cent and the serum calcium by 8.17 per cent. Significant correlations were observed between serum creatinine and Log PTH (r=0.704, p<0.0001) and a negative correlation between creatinine and log vitamin D (r=–0.373, p=0.001).

Conclusion

The results exhibited depletion of serum vitamin D concentration accompanied with the development of severe secondary hyperparathyroidism with the progression in kidney disease. The vitamin D deficiency was more prominent in females, older ages, and advanced kidney disease.     

A win for the patient: Direct patient notification improves treatment rates of active Helicobacter pylori infection

Background

Current international guidelines recommend the commencement of effective eradication therapy as soon as active Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is confirmed. At our institution, all positive Campylobacter-like Organism (CLO) test results were automatically communicated to general practitioners (GPs) via a standardised letter, which also advised the commencement of eradication therapy. Despite this endeavour, a clinical audit conducted in 2011 demonstrated that only 66 per cent of confirmed H. pylori-positive South Auckland patients received eradication treatment and only 83 per cent of these patients received treatment within one month.

Aims

Improve the timely initiation of H. pylori eradication therapy through direct patient notification.

Method

A prospective clinical audit of 109 consecutive outpatients with a positive CLO test identified at gastroscopy. In addition to standard general practitioner notification, patients were also directly notified of their positive CLO test result via a standardised letter, which provided information about H. pylori and its disease associations as well as advising patients to seek consultation with their GP to commence eradication therapy. Dispensing data was examined using Test Safe electronic records to determine the total uptake and timing of treatment compared to data from a preliminary 2011 audit.

Results

Ninety-five per cent of H. pylori-positive patients received standard triple therapy; therefore, treatment of active H. pylori infection was significantly higher when patients were directly notified in addition to standard GP notification, when compared to GP notification alone (95 per cent vs 66 per cent, p<0.001). All patients who received eradication therapy did so within one month of notification, a significant improvement compared to data from the previous audit in 2011 (100 per cent vs. 83 per cent, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Direct patient notification using a standardised letter is a simple and economical strategy that significantly improves the timely initiation of eradication therapy for active H. pylori infection. This has since been integrated into standard practice at our District Health Board (DHB).     

Myopia in young patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to evaluate the proportion of young patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) who have myopia, as well as the risk factors associated with myopia in this group.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, patients aged < 21 years with T1DM for ≥ 1 year underwent a comprehensive eye examination. Presence of parental myopia, and average hours of near-work and outdoor activity were estimated using a questionnaire. Annualised glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), defined as the mean of the last three HbA1c readings taken over the last year, was calculated. Multivariate analysis using genetic, environmental and diabetes-related factors was done to evaluate risk factors associated with myopia.

RESULTS

Of the 146 patients (mean age 12.5 ± 3.6 years) recruited, 66.4% were Chinese and 57.5% were female. Myopia (i.e. spherical equivalent [SE] of –0.50 D or worse) was present in 96 (65.8%) patients. The proportion of patients with myopia increased from 25.0% and 53.6% in those aged < 7.0 years and 7.0–9.9 years, respectively, to 59.2% and 78.4% in those aged 10.0–11.9 years and ≥ 12.0 years, respectively. Higher levels of SE were associated with lower parental myopia (p = 0.024) and higher annualised HbA1c (p = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

Compared to the background population, the proportion of myopia in young patients with T1DM was higher in those aged < 10 years but similar in the older age group. Myopia was associated with a history of parental myopia. Environmental risk factors and poor glycaemic control were not related to higher myopia risk.     

Comparing of Light Transmittance Aggregometry and Modified Thrombelastograph in Predicting Clinical Outcomes in Chinese Patients Undergoing Coronary Stenting with Clopidogrel

Background:

Several platelet function tests are currently used to measure responsiveness to antiplatelet therapy. This study was to compare two tests, light transmittance aggregometry (LTA) and modified thrombelastography (mTEG), for predicting clinical outcomes in Chinese patients after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods:

Prospective, observational, single-center study of 789 Chinese patients undergoing PCI was enrolled. This study was investigated the correlations between the two tests and performed receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) at 1-year follow-up.

Results:

MACEs occurred in 32 patients (4.1%). Correlations were well between the two tests in the adenosine diphosphate induced platelet reactivity (Spearman r = 0.733, P < 0.001). ROC-curve analysis demonstrated that LTA (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.677; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.643–0.710; P = 0.0009), and mTEG (AUC: 0.684; 95% CI: 0.650–0.716; P = 0.0001) had moderate ability to discriminate between patients with and without MACE. MACE occurred more frequently in patients with high on-treatment platelet reactivity (HPR) when assessed by LTA (7.4% vs. 2.7%; P < 0.001), and by TEG (6.7% vs. 2.6%; P < 0.001). Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated that HPR based on the LTA and mTEG was associated with almost 3-fold increased risk of MACE at 1-year follow-up.

Conclusions:

The correlation between LTA and mTEG is relatively high in Chinese patients. HPR measured by LTA and mTEG were significantly associated with MACE in Chinese patients undergoing PCI.     

Knowledge of diabetes and its associated ocular manifestations by diabetic patients: A study at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital,Ghana

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is a significant cause of visual impairment, hence adequate knowledge on this condition and its ocular manifestations is of immense importance to diabetic patients.

Aim:

To assess the knowledge of diabetic patients on the disorder and its ocular manifestations, and their attitude towards ocular examinations.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional survey involving the use of a structured interview was conducted among diabetic patients attending the Diabetic Clinic of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. Using Fishers Exact Chi-square (χ²) and Odds Ratios (ORs), data obtained was analyzed.

Results:

Only 103 (26.4%) patients knew the type of diabetes mellitus they were suffering from. Knowledge on ocular effects of diabetes mellitus was low and only 15 (3.8%) knew that it could affect the ocular refraction with no patient mentioning that diabetes mellitus could cause cataract or diabetic retinopathy. Attitude to routine eye examination was poor. As much as 135 (34.6%) had never had an eye examination since being diagnosed of diabetes. Knowledge of the type of diabetes mellitus the individual had or any ocular complication of this disorder was significantly related (OR: 4.22; P < 0.001 and OR: 2.55; P < 0.001) respectively to their attitude to seeking eye care.

Conclusion:

Diabetic patients’ knowledge on diabetes mellitus and its ocular manifestations, and the attitude of diabetic patients towards eye examination were poor. Intensive health education by diabetes care givers and leaders of the Ghana Diabetic Association for diabetic patient is therefore required to improve attitude towards eye care to prevent visual impairment.     

Factors associated with non-attendance in a general practice super clinic population in regional Australia: A retrospective cohort study

Background

Non-attendance at medical appointments is associated with increased patient morbidity and is a significant drain on health service resources. Australian studies have focused on secondary healthcare settings, screening, and interventions to reduce non-attendance.

Aims

To explore factors associated with non-attendance in a regional primary care setting.

Method

A retrospective cohort of all patients with a scheduled appointment between October 2011 and October 2013 at a regional, primary care clinic providing medical and allied health services in a region of New South Wales (NSW) serving a large Aboriginal population (10.7 per cent). Using multivariate logistic regression, non-attendance was regressed on a range of covariates, including number of appointments per person, gender and ethnicity, and day of the week.

Results

The overall proportion of missed appointments was 7.6 per cent. Risk factors for non-attendance were day of the week [Mondays (8.1 per cent), Fridays (8.0 per cent), and Thursdays (7.9 per cent), (χ2(4)= 20.208, p<0.0005], having fewer scheduled appointments [≤5 appointments resulted in 19.1 per cent greater risk of failure to attend (FTA) (95% CI: 11–28%)]; Aboriginality (OR=4.022, 95% CI: 3.263, 4.956), and female gender (OR=1.077; 95% CI 1.024, 1.132). There was a trend toward an interaction between gender and Aboriginality, with Aboriginal females being the group most likely to miss appointments (OR=1.272, 95% CI: 0.949, 1.705).

Conclusion

This is the largest study of non-attendance in an Australian primary healthcare setting. While not a typical setting, the study had the advantage of a large, mixed population. The suggested high rates of non-attendance by Aboriginal females have potentially important policy implications.     

Plantar Pressure Changes and Correlating Risk Factors in Chinese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Preliminary 2-year Results of a Prospective Study

Background:

Plantar pressure serves as a key factor for predicting ulceration in the feet of diabetes patients. We designed this study to analyze plantar pressure changes and correlating risk factors in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods:

We recruited 65 patients with type 2 diabetes. They were invited to participate in the second wave 2 years later. The patients completed identical examinations at the baseline point and 2 years later. We obtained maximum force, maximum pressure, impulse, pressure-time integral, and loading rate values from 10 foot regions. We collected data on six history-based variables, six anthropometric variables, and four metabolic variables of the patients.

Results:

Over the course of the study, significant plantar pressure increases in some forefoot portions were identified (P < 0.05), especially in the second to forth metatarsal heads. Decreases in heel impulse and pressure-time integral levels were also found (P < 0.05). Plantar pressure parameters increased with body mass index (BMI) levels. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) changes were positively correlated with maximum force (β = 0.364, P = 0.001) and maximum pressure (β = 0.366, P = 0.002) changes in the first metatarsal head. Cholesterol changes were positively correlated with impulse changes in the lateral portion of the heel (β = 0.179, P = 0.072) and pressure-time integral changes in the second metatarsal head (β = 0.236, P = 0.020). Ankle-brachial index (ABI) changes were positively correlated with maximum force changes in the first metatarsal head (β = 0.137, P = 0.048). Neuropathy symptom score (NSS) and common peroneal nerve sensory nerve conduction velocity (SCV) changes were positively correlated with some plantar pressure changes. In addition, plantar pressure changes had a correlation with the appearance of infections, blisters (β = 0.244, P = 0.014), and calluses over the course of the study.

Conclusions:

We should pay attention to the BMI, HbA1c, cholesterol, ABI, SCV, and NSS changes in the process of preventing high plantar pressure and ulceration. Some associated precautions may be taken with the appearance of infections, blisters, and calluses.     

Analysis of Risk Factors for Lower-limb Deep Venous Thrombosis in Old Patients after Knee Arthroplasty

Background:

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a common complication of arthroplasty in old patients. We analyzed risk factors for lower-limb DVT after arthroplasty in patients aged over 70 years to determine controllable risk factors.

Methods:

This was a retrospective study of 1,025 patients aged >70 years treated with knee arthroplasty at our hospital between January 2009 and December 2013. Of 1,025 patients, 175 had postoperative lower-limb DVT. We compared medical history, body mass index (BMI), ambulatory blood pressure, preoperative and postoperative fasting blood glucose (FBG), preoperative blood total cholesterol, triglyceride, high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and preoperative homocysteine (Hcy) between thrombus and non-thrombus groups. B-mode ultrasonography was used to detect lower-limb DVT before the operation and 7 days after the operation in all patients. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine risk factors for DVT.

Results:

Incidence of diabetes (P = 0.014), BMI (P = 0.003), preoperative FBG (P = 0.004), postoperative FBG (P = 0.012), and preoperative Hcy (P < 0.001) were significantly higher in the thrombus group. A significantly greater proportion of patients in the non-thrombus group had early postoperative activity (P < 0.001) and used a foot pump (P < 0.001). Operative duration was significantly longer in the thrombus group (P = 0.012). Within the thrombus group, significantly more patients had bilateral than unilateral knee arthroplasty (P < 0.01). Multivariate logistic analysis revealed BMI, preoperative Hcy, postoperative FBG, long operative duration, bilateral knee arthroplasty, and time to the activity after the operation to be predictive factors of DVT. At 6-month follow-up of the thrombus group, 4.7% of patients had pulmonary embolism and 18.8% had recurrent DVT; there were no deaths.

Conclusions:

Obesity, inactivity after operation, elevated preoperative Hcy and postoperative FBG, long operative duration, and bilateral knee arthroplasty were risk factors for DVT in patients aged over 70 years.     

Does injury claim status and benefit status predict low back pain outcomes?

Background

In New Zealand the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) is a state-funded insurance agency that accepts claims for accidental injuries, including lumbar spine injuries. It is unknown whether ACC claim status (accepted, not accepted) affects low back pain (LBP) outcomes, or whether benefit status (e.g., sickness, disability) further affects outcomes in patients without ACC cover

Aims

This study aimed to determine whether ACC claim and benefit status are likely to influence a range of outcomes for people with LBP in New Zealand.

Methods

A prospective survey of low back pain patients was performed (April 2008–October 2010). ACC claim status was recorded, and individuals without accepted claims indicated benefit status. Surveys were sent at multiple time points; pain, functional limitation, psychological factors, and general health were assessed. Statistical analysis was undertaken using ANCOVA and ANOVA (p<0.05).

Results

In total, 168 patients completed the study. Six-month measures showed individuals with no ACC claim for LBP to overall have poorer outcomes (mental health, p=0.039; pain, p=0.045; functional limitation, p=0.049); sub-group analysis (no ACC claim) between those with or without a benefit showed those on benefits to have significantly higher functional limitation (p<0.001), poorer physical health (p=0.002), greater pain (p=0.027), and stronger fear avoidance behaviours for both work (p=0.047) and physical activity (p=0.35).

Conclusion

Findings indicate individuals with accepted ACC claims for LBP have significantly better outcomes than those without, and patients on benefits with no accepted ACC claim for LBP have even poorer outcomes.     

Therapeutic Effects of Sodium Hyaluronate on Ocular Surface Damage Induced by Benzalkonium Chloride Preserved Anti-glaucoma Medications

Background:

Long-term use of benzalkonium chloride (BAC)-preserved drugs is often associated with ocular surface toxicity. Ocular surface symptoms had a substantial impact on the glaucoma patients’ quality of life and compliance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of sodium hyaluronate (SH) on ocular surface toxicity induced by BAC-preserved anti-glaucoma medications treatment.

Methods:

Fifty-eight patients (101 eyes), who received topical BAC-preserved anti-glaucoma medications treatment and met the severe dry eye criteria, were included in the analysis. All patients were maintained the original topical anti-glaucoma treatment. In the SH-treated group (56 eyes), unpreserved 0.3% SH eye drops were administered with 3 times daily for 90 days. In the control group (55 eyes), phosphate-buffered saline were administered with 3 times daily for 90 days. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, break-up time (BUT) test, corneal fluorescein staining, corneal and conjunctival rose Bengal staining, Schirmer test, and conjunctiva impression cytology were performed sequentially on days 0 and 91.

Results:

Compared with the control group, SH-treated group showed decrease in OSDI scores (Kruskal-Wallis test: H = 38.668, P < 0.001), fluorescein and rose Bengal scores (Wilcoxon signed-ranks test: z = −3.843, P < 0.001, and z = −3.508, P < 0.001, respectively), increase in tear film BUT (t-test: t = −10.994, P < 0.001) and aqueous tear production (t-test: t = −10.328, P < 0.001) on day 91. The goblet cell density was increased (t-test: t = −9.981, P < 0.001), and the morphology of the conjunctival epithelium were also improved after SH treatment.

Conclusions:

SH significantly improved both symptoms and signs of ocular surface damage in patients with BAC-preserved anti-glaucoma medications treatment. SH could be proposed as a new attempt to reduce ocular surface toxicity, and alleviate symptoms of ocular surface damage in BAC-preserved anti-glaucoma medications treatment.     

Long-term Prognosis of Patients with Acute non-ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction undergoing Different Treatment Strategies

Background:

In cardiology, it is controversial whether different therapy strategies influence prognosis after acute coronary syndrome. We examined and compared the long-term outcomes of invasive and conservative strategies in patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and characterized the patients selected for an invasive approach.

Methods:

A total of 976 patients with acute NSTEMI were collected from December 2006 to October 2012 in the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University Hospital. They are divided into conservative strategy (586 patients) and invasive strategy (390 patients) group. Unified follow-up questionnaire was performed by telephone contact (cut-off date was November, 2013). The long-term clinical events were analyzed and related to the different treatment strategies.

Results:

The median follow-up time was 29 months. Mortality was 28.7% (n = 168) in the conservative group and 2.1% (n = 8) in the invasive management at long-term clinical follow-up. The secondary endpoint (the composite endpoint) was 59.0% (n = 346) in the conservative group and 30.3% (n = 118) in the invasive management. Multivariate analysis showed that patients in the conservative group had higher all-cause mortality rates than those who had the invasive management (adjusted risk ratio [RR] = 7.795; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.796–16.006, P < 0.001), and the similar result was also seen in the secondary endpoint (adjusted RR = 2.102; 95% CI: 1.694–2.610, P < 0.001). In the subgroup analysis according to each Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction risk score (TRS), log-rank analysis showed lower mortality and secondary endpoint rates in the invasive group with the intermediate and high-risk patients (TRS 3–7).

Conclusions:

An invasive strategy could improve long-term outcomes for NSTEMI patients, especially for intermediate and high-risk ones (TRS 3–7).