Long-term effects of irbesartan on plasma aldosterone concentration and left atrial volume in hypertensive patients

BackgroundPlasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) is related to cardiac remodeling in patients with hypertension. However, we do not know the detailed relationship between changes in PAC and regression of left atrial (LA) volume following long-term treatment with angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) or calcium-channel blocker (CCB).ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate the effects of anti-hypertensive monotherapy, an ARB irbesartan or a CCB amlodipine, on PAC and LA reverse remodeling in hypertensive patients.MethodsA total of 48 patients with untreated hypertension were randomly assigned to irbesartan (ARB group, n = 26) and amlodipine (CCB group, n = 22). We examined the correlation between LA volume index (LAVI) and other echocardiographic parameters or PAC (n = 40) at the baseline and after 12 months of treatment.ResultsAfter 12 months, blood pressure (BP) decreased similarly in both groups. LAVI and PAC significantly decreased in the ARB group, but not in the CCB group (−16 ± 8% vs. 22 ± 9%, p < 0.01, −16 ± 9% vs. 11 ± 9%, p < 0.05). Larger %-decrease in PAC was associated with larger %-reduction of LAVI in the ARB group (r = 0.54, p < 0.05), but not in the CCB group.ConclusionsWhile BP reduction was similar between the two groups, decrease in LA volume was larger in the ARB group than in the CCB group. Decrease in LA volume was larger in patients with a greater decrease in PAC than in those with smaller decrease in PAC. ARB may facilitate reverse remodeling of LA through decreases in PAC in hypertensive patients.     

Gut microbiota interactions with the immunomodulatory role of vitamin D in normal individuals

BackgroundDue to immunomodulatory properties, vitamin D status has been implicated in several diseases beyond the skeletal disorders. There is evidence that its deficiency deteriorates the gut barrier favoring translocation of endotoxins into the circulation and systemic inflammation. Few studies investigated whether the relationship between vitamin D status and metabolic disorders would be mediated by the gut microbiota composition.ObjectiveWe examined the association between vitamin D intake and circulating levels of 25(OH)D with gut microbiota composition, inflammatory markers and biochemical profile in healthy individuals.MethodsIn this cross-sectional analysis, 150 young healthy adults were stratified into tertiles of intake and concentrations of vitamin D and their clinical and inflammatory profiles were compared. The DESeq2 was used for comparisons of microbiota composition and the log2 fold changes (log2FC) represented the comparison against the reference level. The association between 25(OH)D and fecal microbiota (16S rRNA sequencing, V4 region) was tested by multiple linear regression.ResultsVitamin D intake was associated with its concentration (r = 0.220, p = 0.008). There were no significant differences in clinical and inflammatory variables across tertiles of intake. However, lipopolysaccharides increased with the reduction of 25(OH)D (p-trend < 0.05). Prevotella was more abundant (log2FC 1.67, p < 0.01), while Haemophilus and Veillonella were less abundant (log2FC − 2.92 and − 1.46, p < 0.01, respectively) in the subset with the highest vitamin D intake (reference) than that observed in the other subset (first plus second tertiles). PCR (r = − 0.170, p = 0.039), E-selectin (r = − 0.220, p = 0.007) and abundances of Coprococcus (r = − 0.215, p = 0.008) and Bifdobacterium (r = − 0.269, p = 0.001) were inversely correlated with 25(OH)D. After adjusting for age, sex, season and BMI, 25(OH)D maintained inversely associated with Coprococcus (β = − 9.414, p = 0.045) and Bifdobacterium (β = − 1.881, p = 0.051), but significance disappeared following the addition of inflammatory markers in the regression models.ConclusionThe role of vitamin D in the maintenance of immune homeostasis seems to occur in part by interacting with the gut microbiota. The attenuation of association of bacterial genera by inflammatory markers suggests that inflammation participate in part in the relationship between the gut microbiota and vitamin D concentration. Studies with appropriate design are necessary to address hypothesis raised in the current study.     

The association between ectopic fat in the pancreas and subclinical atherosclerosis in type 2 diabetes

AimsEvidence that pancreatic fat accumulation has a role in obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is emerging. However, data on the influence of pancreatic steatosis on subclinical atherosclerosis are lacking.MethodsWe examined 198 patients with type 2 DM. Pancreatic computed tomography (CT) attenuations were assessed using CT imaging. Obesity was defined as BMI ≥ 25 kg/m² according to the Asian-specific BMI cut-offs. We defined pancreatic steatosis as pancreatic attenuations below median levels.ResultsThe pancreatic attenuations was significantly correlated with age (r = −0.302, p < 0.001), visceral fat area (r = −0.194, p = 0.006) and vascular stiffness (r = −0.242, p = 0.001). In the non-obese group (BMI < 25 kg/m²), pancreatic steatosis was associated with a higher prevalence of carotid artery plaque and vascular stiffness. In the non-obese group, patients with pancreatic steatosis, compared with those without, had an odds ratio (OR) of 3.1 (95% CI 1.2–8.1) for carotid atherosclerosis, after adjusting for age, gender and BMI. However, significant associations between pancreatic steatosis and atherosclerosis were not found in the obese group.ConclusionEctopic fat in the pancreas is strongly associated with carotid atherosclerosis in non-obese subjects with type 2 DM. This finding highlights the importance of pancreatic fat deposits related to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, especially in non-obese subjects.     

Étude de la corrélation entre la sensibilité à l’insuline et les paramètres anthropométriques et métaboliques dans le diabète de type 2

AimThe aim of the study was to evaluate correlations between insulin sensitivity and insulinosecretion with anthropometric and metabolic parameters in type 2 diabetics.Materials and methodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with oral antidiabetic medications. The evaluation of insulin resistance and insulinosecretion was based on the calculation of the HOMA-IR and HOMA-β indices.ResultsThe mean age for the 100 diabetes recruited was 56.4 ± 8.4 years. The mean body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) were 30.5 ± 5.7 kg/m² and 101.2 ± 11.9 cm respectively. The HOMA-IR and HOMA β indices were respectively 3.5 ± 2.8 and 48.9 ± 45.5. We have found a significantly positive correlation between HOMA-IR index and weight (r = 0.406, p < 10⁻³), BMI (r = 0.432, p < 10⁻³) and WC (r  =  0.412, p < 10⁻³). We noticed a significant negative correlation between HOMA β index and fasting glucose (r = −0.457, p < 10⁻³) and A1 C (r = −0.399, p < 10⁻³). A positive statistically significant correlation was noted between HOMA-IR and HOMA-β (r = 0.400, p < 10⁻³).ConclusionInsulin resistance is very related to overweight, especially the android distribution of fat hence the need for adequate management of this android obesity. It would also be interesting to evaluate the effects of weight loss on insulin resistance parameters.     

Effect of neighborhood factors on diabetes self-care behaviors in adults with type 2 diabetes

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to identify latent variables for neighborhood factors and diabetes self-care and examine the effect of neighborhood factors on diabetes self-care in adults with type 2 diabetes.Research design and methods615 subjects were recruited from an academic medical center and a Veterans affairs medical center in the southeastern United States. Validated scales were used to assess neighborhood factors and diabetes-related self-care. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to determine the latent constructs. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was then used to assess the relationship between neighborhood factors and diabetes self-care.ResultsBased on a theoretical framework, CFA yielded four latent variables for neighborhood factors (neighborhood violence, access to healthy food, social support, and neighborhood esthetics) and one latent variable diabetes self-care (including diet, exercise, foot care, blood sugar testing and medication adherence). SEM showed that social support (r = 0.28, p < 0.001) and access to healthy foods (r = −0.16, p = 0.003) were significantly associated with self-care behaviors, while neighborhood violence (r = −0.06, p < 0.001) and esthetics (r = −0.07, p = 0.278) were not χ² (180, N = 611) = 192, p = 0.26, RMSEA = 0.01, CFI = 0.999). In the final trimmed model, social support (r = 0.31, p < 0.001) and access to healthy foods (r = −0.20, p < 0.001) remained significantly associated with self-care behaviors χ² (76, N = 611) = 60, p = 0.91, RMSEA = 0.00, CFI = 1.0).ConclusionThis study developed latent factors for neighborhood characteristics and diabetes self-care and found that social support and access to healthy foods were significantly associated with diabetes self-care and should be considered as targets for future interventions.     

Correlation between nasal eosinophils and nasal airflows in children with asthma and/or rhinitis monosensitised to house dust mites

BackgroundAllergic rhinitis and asthma due to mite sensitisation are diseases which are frequently associated and characterised by persistent inflammation. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between nasal airflows and nasal eosinophils in patients with asthma and/or rhinitis due to house dust mite sensitisation.MethodsTwenty-four children with both rhinitis and asthma (R + A), 13 children with rhinitis and no asthma (R) and 10 non-allergic healthy children were evaluated prospectively. The patients belonging to the first two groups had moderate–severe grade of nasal obstruction. Total nasal symptom scores, peak nasal inspiratory flows (PNIFs) obtained by anterior rhinomanometry, skin prick tests, nasal eosinophils and FEV1 values were all assessed.ResultsPercentages of nasal eosinophils and PNIFs in patients with R + A and R (r = −0.415, p = 0.04) were found to be statistically significant and to have an inverse correlation. Skin prick tests were also significantly correlated with nasal eosinophils and PNIFs (r = 0.372, p = 0.01 and r = −0.306, p = 0.04, respectively). Both PNIFs and nasal eosinophils of patients with R + A were significantly correlated with FEV1 values (r = −0.641, p = 0.001 and r = 0.548, p = 0.007, respectively).ConclusionIn this study, a close relationship was demonstrated between eosinophil infiltration and nasal airflows in children having asthma and/or rhinitis monosensitised to mites. Additionally, the significant association found between FEV1 values and nasal eosinophils or PNIFs supported the close link of upper and lower airways.     

Aortic stiffness is increased in patients with premature coronary artery disease: A tissue Doppler imaging study

BackgroundAtherosclerosis and arterial stiffening may coexist and the correlation of these parameters in patients with premature coronary artery disease (CAD) has not been well elucidated. Tissue Doppler imaging of the ascending aorta may be used in the assessment of elastic properties of the great arteries.ObjectiveTo investigate the correlation between aortic stiffness and premature CAD using parameters derived from two-dimensional and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) echocardiography of the ascending aorta.MethodsFifty consecutive subjects younger than 40 years old who were hospitalized with diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome and had undergone coronary angiography were recruited. The control group included 70 age–sex matched individuals without a diagnosis of CAD. Aortic stiffness index (SI), aortic distensibility (D), and pressure-strain elastic modulus (E_p) were calculated from the aortic diameters measured by two-dimensional M-mode echocardiography and blood pressure obtained by sphygmomanometry. Aortic systolic velocity (S_Ao), and early (E_Ao) and late (A_Ao) diastolic velocities were determined by pulse-wave TDI from the anterior wall of ascending aorta 3 cm above the aortic cusps in parasternal long-axis view.ResultsStiffness index was higher [median 5.40, interquartile range (IQR) 5.98 vs. median 4.14 IQR 2.43; p = 0.03] and distensibility was lower (median 2.86 × 10⁻⁶ cm²/dyn, IQR 2.51 × 10⁻⁶ cm²/dyn vs. median 3.46 × 10⁻⁶ cm²/dyn, IQR 2.38 × 10⁻⁶ cm²/dyn; p = 0.04) in patients with CAD compared to the control group. E_Ao was significantly lower in the CAD group (7.2 ± 1.8 cm/s vs. 9.2 ± 2.4 cm/s, p < 0.01). The difference in E_Ao remained significant when CAD patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction >55% was compared to the control group. S_Ao and A_Ao velocities of ascending aorta were similar in control and CAD groups. There was a significant correlation between E_Ao velocity and aortic stiffness index (r = −0.28, p = 0.01), distensibility (r = 0.19, p = 0.04) and elastic modulus (r = −0.24, p = 0.01). In multivariate regression analysis, decreased levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [odds ratio (OR): 1.12 95% CI 1.06–1.19; p = 0.01] and E_Ao (OR: 1.41 95% CI 1.12–1.79; p = 0.01) measurements remained as the variables independently correlated with premature CAD in the study group.ConclusionArterial stiffness is increased in patients with premature CAD. E_Ao of the anterior wall of ascending aorta measured with pulse-wave TDI echocardiography is correlated with arterial stiffening and is decreased in patients with premature CAD.     

Anaemia,but not iron deficiency,is associated with clinical symptoms and quality of life in patients with severe heart failure and palliative home care: A substudy of the PREFER trial

BackgroundTo explore the relationships between anaemia or iron deficiency (ID) and symptoms, quality of life (QoL), morbidity, and mortality.MethodsA post-hoc, non-prespecified, explorative substudy of the prospective randomized PREFER trial. One centre study of outpatients with severe HF and palliative need managed with advanced home care. Associations between anaemia, ID, and the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS), Euro QoL (EQ-5D), Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questions (KCCQ) were examined only at baseline but at 6 months for morbidity and mortality.ResultsSeventy-two patients (51 males, 21 females), aged 79.2 ± 9.1 years. Thirty-nine patients (54%) had anaemia and 34 had ID (47%). Anaemia was correlated to depression (r = 0.37; p = 0.001), anxiety (r = 0.25; p = 0.04), and reduced well-being (r = 0.26; p = 0.03) in the ESAS; mobility (r = 0.33; p = 0.005), pain/discomfort (r = 0.27; p = 0.02), and visual analogue scale of health state (r = − 0.28; p = 0.02) in the EQ-5D; and physical limitation (r = − 0.27; p = 0.02), symptom stability; (r = − 0.43; p < 0.001); (r = − 0.25; p = 0.033), social limitation;(r = − 0.26; p = 0.03), overall summary score; (r = − 0.24, p = 0.046) and clinical summary score; (r = − 0.27; p = 0.02) in the KCCQ. ID did not correlate to any assessment item. Anaemia was univariably associated with any hospitalization (OR: 3.0; CI: 1.05–8.50, p = 0.04), but not to mortality. ID was not significantly associated with any hospitalization or mortality.ConclusionAnaemia, but not ID, was associated although weakly with symptoms and QoL in patients with advanced HF and palliative home care.     

A systematic review and meta-analysis of exercise interventions in adults with type 1 diabetes

AimsConflicting evidence exists regarding the benefits of physical activity for long-term blood glucose control in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The object of this systematic review was to determine the effects of physical activity on long-term blood glucose control in T1D adults.MethodsPubMed/Medline, Embase, CENTRAL, SPORTdiscus, Global Health and ICTRP were searched up to October 2013 for randomized trials of aerobic or resistance exercise training in T1D adults. Exercises had to be performed at least twice weekly for a minimum of two months. The primary outcome was glycated hemoglobin (HbA_1c). Secondary outcomes included cardiorespiratory fitness and insulin dose.ResultsSix randomized trials were identified (323 adults); sample sizes ranged from n = 6 to n = 148 participants receiving the intervention. Five trials had an unknown risk of bias; one trial was deemed to be at high risk of bias. Exercise frequency varied from twice weekly to daily, with intensities (50–90% VO_2peak), and session durations (20–120 min) varying widely. Four trials reported HbA_1c, which decreased with exercise training (mean difference [MD] −0.78% (−9 mmol/mol), 95% CI −1.14 (−13 mmol/mol) to −0.41 (−5 mmol/mol); p < 0.0001; I² 0%) compared with controls. Exercise training improved cardiorespiratory fitness by 3.45 ml/kg/min (95% CI 0.59 to 6.31, p = 0.02, I² 0%) compared with controls. One trial reported an effect on insulin dose (MD −0.4 U/kg, 95% CI −0.53 to −0.27, p < 0.00001) compared to controls.ConclusionThere are currently insufficient well-designed studies to ascertain the true effect of exercise training on HbA_1c in individuals with T1D, but current results are promising.     

The effects of anti-TNF-α treatment with adalimumab on growth in children with Crohn's disease (CD)

IntroductionAdalimumab is used to treat children with Crohn's disease (CD), but the effects of adalimumab on growth in CD have not been studied.AimTo study growth and disease activity over 12 months (6 months prior to (T − 6), baseline (T0) and for 6 months following (T + 6) adalimumab).Subjects and methodsGrowth and treatment details of 36 children (M: 22) who started adalimumab at a median (10th, 90th) age of 14.7 years (11.3, 16.8) were reviewed.ResultsOf 36 cases, 28 (78%) went into remission. Overall 42% of children showed catch up growth, which was more likely in: (i) those who achieved remission (median change in height SDS (ΔHtSDS) increased from −0.2 (−0.9, 1.0) at T0 to 0.2 (−0.6, 1.6) at T + 6, (p = 0.007)), (ii) in those who were on immunosuppression ΔHtSDS increased from −0.2 (−0.9, 1.0) at T0 to 0.1 (−0.8, 1.3) at T + 6, (p = 0.03) and (iii) in those whose indication for using adalimumab therapy was an allergic reaction to infliximab, median ΔHtSDS increased significantly from −0.3 (−0.9, 1.0) at T0 to 0.3 (−0.5, 1.6) at T + 6, (p = 0.02). Median ΔHtSDS also increased from −0.4 (−0.8, 0.7) at T0 to 0.0 (−0.6, 1.6) at T + 6, (p = 0.04) in 15 children who were on prednisolone therapy when starting adalimumab.ConclusionClinical response to adalimumab therapy is associated with an improvement in linear growth in a proportion of children with CD. Improved growth is more likely in patients entering remission and on immunosuppression but is not solely due to a steroid sparing effect.     

Usefulness of right atrial volume index in predicting outcome in chronic systolic heart failure

BackgroundRight ventricular (RV) dysfunction is associated with poor prognosis in patients with heart failure (HF). Echocardiographic assessment of RV systolic function is challenging. The ability to visualize the right atrium (RA) allows a quantitative, highly reproducible assessment of RA volume.ObjectiveThe aim is to study the relationship between the right atrial volume index (RAVI) and prognosis in patients with chronic systolic HF.Methods120 patients with chronic systolic HF and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <40% were enrolled. The RA volume was calculated by Simpson’s method using single-plane RA area and indexed to body surface area (RAVI). RV systolic assessment was done using the RV fractional area change (RVFAC), and peak systolic velocity (Sa_tri) using tissue Doppler imaging at the tricuspid annulus. The primary endpoint was death, urgent transplantation, or acute HF episode requiring hospital admission during a follow-up of 1 year.ResultsFollow up was complete for 117 of 120 patients. Fifty-two patients reached the primary endpoint. The mean RAVI was higher in patients with adverse events (45.5 ± 15 ml/m² versus 25.2 ± 11 ml/m², p < 0.001), and increased with worsening LVEF, RVFAC, Sa_tri (Spearman’s r = −0.46, r = −0.45, r = −0.59, p < 0.001 for all). RAVI was not correlated with estimates of RV diastolic dysfunction. The cut-off threshold for RAVI to predict the primary endpoint using receiver-operating characteristic curve was 29 ml/m² (area under the curve was 0.89%, 95% confidence interval: 0.82–0.95) with a sensitivity of 92%, and a specificity of 75%. NYHA > 2 (OR = 2.1, p < 0.01), and RAVI (OR = 1.6, p < 0.05) were found to be independent predictors of adverse outcome.ConclusionIn patients with chronic systolic HF, RAVI is an independent predictor of adverse outcome with a threshold value of 29 ml/m².     

Blood levels of glucose and insulin and insulin resistance in patients with schizophrenia on clozapine monotherapy

ObjectiveWe tested the hypothesis that fasting blood glucose and insulin levels are higher in schizophrenic subjects on clozapine monotherapy compared with healthy controls and they correlate with anthropometric measurements, laboratory tests and body composition.MethodsData for 24 subjects with schizophrenia treated with clozapine and 24 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers was analyzed.ResultsPatients taking clozapine had higher fasting levels of glucose (103.5 ± 31.6 vs. 87.8 ± 11.7 mg/dL, z = −2.03, p = 0.04), there was no difference for insulin concentrations and markers of insulin resistance. In the clozapine group glucose levels correlated with clozapine dose (R = −0.43, p = 0.03), while insulin levels correlated with weight (R = 0.66, p < 0.001), body mass index (R = 0.54, p = 0.007), abdominal (R = 0.53, p = 0.007) and waist (R = 0.43, p = 0.04) circumference, total body fat (R = 0.51, p = 0.01), and uric acid levels (R = 0.50, p = 0.01). In the clozapine group insulin levels were lower in subjects with body mass index <25 kg/m² (7.0 ± 3.3 vs. 13.4 ± 8.8 μU/mL, p = 0.04) and in subjects without abdominal obesity (6.3 ± 2.4 vs. 13.3 ± 8.6 μU/mL, p = 0.03).ConclusionsWe found higher blood glucose levels in subjects taking clozapine and no differences in blood insulin levels between subjects with schizophrenia and controls. Associations between blood insulin levels and abdominal/waist circumferences support the role of abdominal obesity as an important risk factor of insulin resistance.     

Hyperhomocysteinaemia and poor vitamin B status in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Background and aimsPatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at increased atherothrombotic risk. Preliminary findings have suggested that COPD patients may have increased plasma total homocysteine (tHcy), a cardiovascular risk factor often caused by a poor B vitamin status, but plasma levels of such vitamins were not measured. The aim of this study was to investigate hyperhomocysteinaemia in COPD and to determine whether it may be secondary to poor plasma concentrations of B vitamins.Methods and resultsWe performed a case–control, cross-sectional study of 42 patients with COPD and 29 control subjects. Folate, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, tHcy, renal function, C-reactive protein, blood gases and lipids were measured in patients and controls. COPD patients had higher plasma tHcy (median: 13.9 μmol/l, interquantile range [IQR]: 12.1–18.5 versus 11.5, IQR: 10.1–14, p = 0.002) and lower circulating folate (median: 2.5 ng/ml, IQR: 1.2–3.3 versus 2.8, IQR: 2.1–4 of controls, p = 0.03) than controls had. Compared to the control group, COPD was associated with higher tHcy concentrations also after adjusting for smoking, heart failure, renal function and C-reactive protein with logistic regression analysis (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.06–1.72, p = 0.01). In the COPD group, low levels of folate (β = −0.27, p = 0.02) and vitamin B12 (β = −0.24, p = 0.04), and hypertriglyceridaemia (β = 0.580, p < 0.0001) were independent predictors of the presence of high tHcy concentrations in a multiple linear regression model (adjusted R² = 0.522).ConclusionCOPD patients have a poor B vitamin status and, as a consequence, increased tHcy. These abnormalities may contribute to the COPD-related atherothrombotic risk.     

Active surveillance of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative healthcare-associated infections in a low-middle-income country city

BackgroundCarbapenem-resistance in healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) is of great concern, and it is urgent to improve surveillance. We aimed to describe and analyze HCAIs trends on Gram-negative antimicrobial susceptibility in a city from a developing country, following the implementation of an active surveillance program.MethodsThis is an aggregated study describing data from 24 hospitals with intensive care units, including a trend analysis by Joinpoint regression between January 2012 and December 2017.ResultsThere were 23,578 pathogens in 39,832 HCAIs, from which 16,225 were Gram-negatives (68.8%). Carbapenem susceptibility was lowest in A. baumannii (15.4–25.9%), K. pneumoniae (51.0–55.9%), and P. aeruginosa (64.9–84.1%) and highest in E. coli (96.5–99.2%). Only K. pneumoniae showed a significant Joinpoint at 95% confidence interval: −10.71% (−18.02; −2.75) from 2012 to 2014, p = 0.02, and 6.54% (−2.00; 15.83) from 2015 to 2017, p = 0.12, which was most influenced by urinary tract infections: −9.98% (−16.02; −3.48) from 2012 to 2014, p = 0.01, and 9.66% (−1.75; 22.39) from 2015 to 2017, p = 0.09.ConclusionAlthough we found a significant change toward an improvement in carbapenem susceptibility in K. pneumoniae, resistance is high for most pathogens. These data should encourage health institutions to improve their prevention and control strategies.     

Altered molecular signature of intestinal microbiota in irritable bowel syndrome patients compared with healthy controls: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundMany studies have reported significant changes in intestinal microbiota in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients based on quantitative real-time PCR analysis.AimsWe aimed to review the alterations in intestinal microbiota.MethodsAn online search up to June 9, 2016, was conducted. This systematic review and meta-analysis included differential expression of intestinal microbiota in patients with IBS versus healthy controls (HCs) and subgroup analysis. We assessed the quality of the included studies using an original assessment tool.ResultsA total of 13 articles involving 360 IBS patients and 268 healthy controls were included. The quality assessment scores for these articles ranged from 5 to 8. Significant differences in expression in IBS patients were observed for Lactobacillus (SMD = −0.85, P < 0.001, I² = 28%), Bifidobacterium (SMD = −1.17, P < 0.001, I² = 79.3%), and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (SMD = −1.05, P < 0.001, I² = 0.0%) but not Bacteroides-Prevotella group, Escherichia coli or other genera or species. Subgroup analysis showed that diarrhea-predominant IBS patients had significantly different expression of Lactobacillus (SMD = −1.81, P < 0.001) and Bifidobacterium (SMD = −1.45, P < 0.001).ConclusionDown-regulation of bacterial colonization including Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and F. prausnitzii was observed in IBS patients, particularly in diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D). Microbiota changes participate in the pathogenesis of IBS and may underlie the efficacy of probiotic supplements.     

Heart rate variability evaluation in the assessment of cardiac autonomic neuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes

IntroductionHeart rate variability (HRV) is a respected measure used in the assessment of cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) and it can serve as an independent prognostic indicator of sudden arrhythmic death risk. Despite the importance of early detection, the diagnosis of CAN is often made too late, especially in diabetics. Besides the long subclinical phase of CAN, reasons for this include great diversification of employed diagnostic methods and absence of universally accepted normal values; the latter applies mostly in HRV evaluated using short-term spectral analysis (SAHRV).AimThe aim of this cross-sectional study involving patients with type 2 diabetes was to summarize the real potential of using a testing method for CAN diagnosis by short-term SAHRV, including an autonomic load imposed during an orthoclinostatic test (Supine1–Standing–Supine2, short 5-min recordings). Three different normative approaches to the postprocessing analysis of acquired data described by different authors were employed.Secondary aim of the study was to assess the benefit of rate-controlled breathing. The next aim was to compare the HRV data measured with the selected clinical and laboratory indices in patient examined.Materials and methodsThe study included 43 patients with type 2 diabetes (12 women, 31 men, mean age 51.1 ± 10.7 y) and no history of manifest CAN or serious cardiovascular illness, except uncomplicated hypertension. Using a diagnostic system DiANS PF8 with telemetric transfer of ECG and respiratory rate, series of reflex tests according to Ewing and SAHRV (Fourier tachogram analysis, window 256) during autonomic load imposed by Supine1–Standing–Supine2 test (SSS test) and during 5 min of rate-controlled, non-deepened breathing (PB, 12 cycles/min) were performed. Acquired spectral indices were analyzed and compared with normatives of 3 authors using the same recording algorithm, SSS test, but different data postprocessing analysis. These were (1) so called “functional age” of autonomic nervous system (ANS), (2) assessment of CAN severity according to age-stratified medians and percentiles, (3) assessment of CAN severity according to cumulative spectral power during the entire test (cumLFHF).ResultsAccording to the total Ewing score (ETS), 11.6% patients were categorized as CAN-free (ETS = 0), 32.6% were diagnosed with possible CAN (ETS = 1), and 55.8% labeled with manifest CAN (ETS = 2–3). Moderate correlation between ETS and individual SAHRV parameters following orthoclinostasis (test SSS) in Supine2 position was described [ms²]: TP (total power, f = 0.02–0.5 Hz): r = −0.4, p < 0.006; LF component (low frequency, 0.05–0.15 Hz): r = −0.31, p < 0.04; HF component (high frequency, 0.15–0.5 Hz): r = −0.45, p < 0.003) and the same applied to rate-controlled breathing PB (TP, [ms²]: r = −0.56, p < 0.0001; LF: r = −0.38, p < 0.018; HF: r = −0.52, p < 0.001). Moderate correlation was also found between ETS and HRV assessment using a complex indicator – “functional age of ANS” (r = 0.37, p < 0.015), ETS and cumLFHF [ms², ln ms²]: r = −0.46, p < 0.002). In most patients, significant difference between functional age of ANS and calendar age was confirmed (mean 21.8 ± 12.9 y, median 23.5 years, p < 0.0001). An attempt to assess the severity CAN using age-stratified medians and percentiles of TP, LF, HF, and LF/HF was not successful.As for SAHRV and clinical indices (anthropometric, echocardiographic, QTc, laboratory), moderate correlation between the glycated hemoglobin on one side and basic SAHRV indices (TP, LF, HF, LF/HF), functional age of ANS and cumLFHF on the other side was prominent (r = 0.36–0.53, p < 0.0004 to p < 0.02).ConclusionAssessment of CAN using evaluation of HRV can optimally be performed (and simply realized in clinical practice) using SAHRV based on short ECG recordings during autonomic load imposed by orthoclinostatic test (Supine1–Standing–Supine2) and on postprocessing data analysis using complex indicator called “functional age of ANS”. In the detailed evaluation of sympathovagal balance, it complements the screening assessment with cardiovascular reflex tests (Ewing's battery). Besides the orthoclinostatic load, pronounced vagal provocation using rate-controlled, non-deepened breathing (12 cycles/min) represents a recommended facultative load option increasing the yield of the SAHRV method.The detection and assessment of CAN severity while applying the cumulative indicator of HRV (cumLFHF) showed a good discrimination power in the frontline screening for CAN, albeit without the possibility to distinguish between the sympathetic and vagal branch of ANS.Presented cross-sectional study in type 2 diabetes mellitus demonstrated a significant autonomic dysfunction in majority patients examined, independently of diabetes duration. It supports the recommendation to assess the ANS integrity in type 2 diabetes already at diagnosis, within the initial staging of the illness. The severity of CAN correlates well with metabolic control of diabetes as evaluated by glycated hemoglobin.     

Leprosy and hepatitis B coinfection in southern Brazil

To investigate the association of leprosy with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, as yet unknown for South Brazil, we assessed hepatitis B virus coinfection in 199 South Brazilian leprosy patients (119 lepromatous, 15 tuberculoid, 30 borderline, 12 undetermined and 23 unspecified) and in 681 matched blood donors by screening for the hepatitis B virus markers HBSAg and anti-HBc, using ELISA. Positive samples were retested and anti-HBc+ only samples were tested for the hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs). There was a strong association between leprosy and hepatitis B virus infection (OR = 9.8, 95% CI = 6.4–14.7; p = 0.004·E⁻³⁰), as well as an association between HBV infection and lepromatous leprosy, compared to other forms (OR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.2–4.8; p = 0.017). We also found that confinement due to leprosy was associated with hepatitis B virus infection (OR = 3.9, 95% CI = 2.1–7.4; p = 0.015·E⁻³). Leprosy patients are susceptible to develop hepatitis B virus infection, especially lepromatous. Institutionalized patients, who probably present a stronger Th2 response, have higher risk of being exposed to hepatitis B virus. This clearly emphasizes the need for special care to leprosy patients in preventing hepatitis B virus coinfection in South Brazil.     

Prevalence and risk factors of osteopenia/osteoporosis in Turkish HIV/AIDS patients

BackgroundRecent studies showed a high frequency of low bone mineral density (BMD) in HIV-infected patients and no reports have been issued in Turkey. Our aim was to evaluate BMD and risk factors for osteopenia/osteoporosis in HIV-infected patients that attended an outpatient clinic in Istanbul, Turkey.MethodIn order to determine the prevalence of BMD, 126 HIV-infected patients had been studied with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). The association between BMD and age, gender, body mass index (BMI), habits, 25(OH)vitamin D, HIV RNA, CD4 lymphocyte nadir, using and duration of highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART) were investigated by using multivariate analysis.ResultsMedian age was 40.1 years (range, 20–70); 84% were male; 35.7% patients had AIDS, 63.5% were treated with HAART. Osteopenia and osteoporosis were diagnosed in 53.9% and 23.8%, respectively. Mean plasma HIV RNA was 5.2 (SD 1.0) log₁₀ copies/mL and CD4 lymphocyte nadir was 313.8 (SD 226.2)/mm³. Factors associated with bone loss were high viral load (p = 0.034), using (p = 0.033) and duration of HAART (p = 0.008). No correlation had been seen between sex and osteopenia/osteoporosis (p = 0.794). However, males showed higher rates of osteoporosis than females (p = 0.042).ConclusionsOur results show a very high prevalence of bone mass reduction in Turkish HIV-infected patients. This study supports the importance of both HIV and antiretroviral therapy in low BMD.     

A randomised controlled trial of high dose vitamin D in recent-onset type 2 diabetes

AimsVitamin D insufficiency has been associated with impaired pancreatic beta-cell function. We aimed to determine if high dose oral vitamin D3 (D) improves beta-cell function and glycaemia in type 2 diabetes.MethodsFifty adults with type 2 diabetes diagnosed less than 12 months, with normal baseline serum 25-OH D (25D), were randomised to 6000 IU D (n = 26) or placebo (n = 24) daily for 6 months. Beta-cell function was measured by glucagon-stimulated serum C-peptide (delta C-peptide [DCP], nmol/l). Secondary outcome measures were fasting plasma glucose (FPG), post-prandial blood glucose (PPG), HbA1c and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR).ResultsIn the D group, median serum 25D (nmol/l) increased from 59 to 150 (3 months) and 128 (6 months) and median serum 1,25D (pmol/l) from 135 to 200 and 190. After 3 months, change in DCP from baseline in D (+0.04) and placebo (−0.08) was not different (P = 0.112). However, change in FPG (mmol/l) was significantly lower in D (−0.40) compared to placebo (+0.1) (P = 0.007), as was the change in PPG in D (−0.30) compared to placebo (+0.8) (P = 0.005). Change in HbA1c (%) between D (−0.20) and placebo (−0.10) was not different (P = 0.459). At 6 months, changes from baseline in DCP, FPG, PPG and HbA1c were not different between groups.ConclusionOral D3 supplementation in type 2 diabetes was associated with transient improvement in glycaemia, but without a measurable change in beta-cell function this effect is unlikely to be biologically significant. High dose D3 therefore appears to offer little or no therapeutic benefit in type 2 diabetes.     

Determinants of atherosclerosis in an Egyptian cohort of systemic sclerosis: Relation to disease activity and severity

BackgroundSystemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare multi-system autoimmune disease characterized by vascular abnormalities with an increased prevalence of macrovascular disease.Aim of the workTo evaluate macro-vascular disease (atherosclerosis) in SSc patients and determine its relation to the disease activity and severity.Patients and methodsTwenty-five SSc patients and 20 matched controls were included. The modified Rodnan skin score (mRss) and disease severity by Medsger’s severity score were assessed. Carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and flow mediated vasodilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery were measured. Traditional vascular risk factors were assessed by thorough history taking and laboratory investigations.ResultsThe age of the patients ranged from 15 to 60 years and they were 22 females and 3 males. 15 had limited and 10 diffuse cutaneous SSc. All SSc patients had an increased IMT (1.24 ± 0.29 mm) which was normal in the control subjects (0.77 ± 0.09 mm) (p < 0.0001). SSc patients had significantly lower HDL, thickened IMT and lower FMD than controls (p = 0.005, p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0001 respectively). The younger age of disease onset was significantly associated with more FMD impairment (r = −0.4, p = 0.04) and Medsger’s severity score (r = 0.5, p = 0.009). The mRss and Medsger’s severity score significantly correlated with the IMT (r = 0.84, p = 0.01 and r = 0.56, p = 0.003 respectively). A significant negative correlation was found between FMD and IMT (r = −0.77, p < 0.0001). Medsger’s severity score significantly correlated with FMD (r = −0.44, p = 0.02).ConclusionSSc is associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis when compared to age and sex-matched controls. Determinants of this include; younger age of disease onset and more sever disease and low levels of HDL.