Romanian Journal of Diabetes Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD <p>The <strong>Romanian Journal of Diabetes Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases</strong> is the journal of the <strong>Romanian Society of Diabetes Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases</strong>.</p> <p>It appeared for the first time in 1992, in Romanian language and beginning with 2006 it was published entirely in English. It is a peer reviewed journal, therefore the accepted articles were peer-reviewed by <strong>at least two scientific experts</strong> in the field.</p> <p>It contains <strong>original papers</strong>, including fundamental and clinical research, <strong>literature reviews</strong>, <strong>clinical reports</strong>, <strong>editorials</strong>, articles that contain the <strong>results of the most important clinical studies</strong>, reports from the important congresses and <strong>book reviews</strong>.&nbsp;</p> <p>In Romanian Journal of Diabetes Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases there may be published only papers exclusively sent to this journal, not published previously. The authors should include possible conflicts of interest and financing sources. The laws of copyright and international rules of scientific research are respected.</p> <p>The Romanian Journal of Diabetes Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases <strong>strictly requires</strong> for all the scientific work published <strong>to be 100% compliant</strong> with the&nbsp;<a title="ICMJE.ORG" href="http://www.icmje.org/icmje-recommendations.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Recommendations for the Conduct, Reporting, Editing, and Publication of Scholarly Work in Medical Journals</a>&nbsp;and with the&nbsp;<a title="Best Practices" href="http://doaj.org/bestpractice" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Principles of Transparency and Best Practice in Scholarly Publishing</a> (joint statement by COPE, DOAJ, WAME, and OASPA).</p> <p>This journal appears trimestrially (four numbers/year). 650-800 copies are printed on each number.</p> <p>ILEX Printing House, Bucharest, has the exclusivity for the typesetting, printing and distribution of the Romanian Journal of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases.</p> <p>Our journal is recognized by the Romanian National University Research Council (CNCSIS - 2009) to be part in the B+ category, Code 322.</p> <p>The Romanian Journal of Diabetes Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases is currently indexed in:</p> <p>- Index Copernicus<br>- Get Cited<br>- SCOPUS<br>- Scirus<br>- Celdes<br>- CNKI Scholar (China National Knowledge Infrastucture)<br>- CNPIEC<br>- EBSCO - TOC Premier<br>- EBSCO Discovery Service<br>- Google Scholar<br>- J-Gate<br>- Naviga (Softweco)<br>- Primo Central (ExLibris)<br>- SCImago (SJR)<br>- Summon (Serials Solutions/ProQuest)<br>- TDOne (TDNet)<br>- Ulrich's Periodicals Directory/ulrichsweb<br>- WorldCat (OCLC)</p> en-US journal@sanatateapress.ro (Dragoș Crețoiu) journal@sanatateapress.ro (Dragoș Crețoiu) Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:42:35 +0300 OJS 3.1.1.4 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 Association between metformin use and handgrip strength in older adult women with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Lima, Peru https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2128 <p>Aging is associated with declining muscle strength, which may be exacerbated by type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Metformin, a widely used antidiabetic drug, could influence muscle-related outcomes, but evidence in older adults remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the association between metformin use and handgrip strength (HGS) in older adult women with T2DM. This cross-sectional analytical observational study included 114 older adult women (≥60 years) with T2DM recruited from a primary care center. Metformin use was self-reported. HGS was measured using a dynamometer and expressed as absolute values (kg) and normalized for height. Linear regression models were fitted, and β coefficients with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were estimated. The mean age was 69.02 years. Overall, 80.7% of participants used at least one antidiabetic medication, and 78.07% used metformin. In adjusted models, metformin use was positively associated with absolute HGS (β=2.51 kg; 95% CI: 0.89–4.12; p=0.003) and height-normalized HGS (β=1.57; 95% CI: 0.52–2.62; p=0.004). Metformin use was positively associated with HGS in older women with T2DM. Longitudinal studies are warranted to clarify the temporal and causal nature of this association.</p> Magalía Fernandez-Flores, Oscar Huaman-Gutierrez, Jamee Guerra Valencia ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2128 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Genetic and nutritional interaction: impact of isomaltooligosaccharide and PRKAA2 & ABCA1 polymorphism on Castelli’s risk index https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/1988 <p>Castelli’s Risk Index 1 (CRI1) can be used to estimate the risk of developing ischemic heart disease, which can be influenced by hyperlipidemia. Both genetic variants, including ABCA1 rs2066714 and PRKAA2 rs1124900, and also consuming isomaltooligosaccharide (IMO) can affect hyperlipidemia. The study’s objectives are to examine the alterations in CRI1 in hyperlipidemia subject who eat IMO cookies and have genetic differences. 30 DNA samples were taken from hyperlipidemic participants who received a 4-week treatment of IMO cookies and a control. Genetic variation analysis using PCR-RFLP and restriction enzymes digestion (AfiIII for PRKAA2 rs1124900 and EcoRV for ABCA1 rs2066714). Consumption of IMO significantly reduced CRI1 (8.06%) in patients with hyperlipidemia (p&lt;0.05). Interaction genotypes TG and GG of PRKAA2 rs1124900 with IMO consumption lowering CRI1 (p&lt;0.05). In conclusion, consuming IMO cookies can lower the risk of CRI1 in those with TG and GG genotypes of PRKAA2 rs1124900.</p> Gharini Sumbaga Narhadina, Sunarti Sunarti, Arta Farmawati ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/1988 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Plasma level of nerve growth factor in patients with metabolic syndrome and its relation to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2088 <p>Nerve growth factor (NGF) regulates neuro-cardiovascular interactions, promotes postnatal angiogenesis/vasculogenesis, and its altered levels are linked to metabolic and inflammatory disorders. This study aimed to detect links between NGF and MetS and its relation to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in those subjects. This study was executed on 60 adult participants, who fulfill the International Diabetes Federation consensus definition of MetS (MetS group) along with 30 healthy individuals suited by age and sex possessing MetS group. NGF were significantly reduced in MetS group than control group (P&lt;0.05) and in MetS group with 4 and 5 criteria than those with 3 criteria. There was a significant inverse relation among NGF with each of weight and BMI, LDL, HBA1C, HOMA.IR and ASCVD risk %. In the multivariate analysis, BMI together with HBA1C and NGF showed a significant independent predictor of MetS in our study. NGF at cut-off value of 7.76 ng/ml was found to be a marker of ASCVD in MetS with high sensitivity (87.5%) and specificity (90%). The reduction of NGF in MetS which increased with increase number of criteria of metabolic syndrome suggest its protective value in MetS. NGF in addition to BMI and HbA1C are independent predictor of the metabolic syndrome and NGF could be a good marker of ASCVD risk in MetS with very high sensitivity and specificity which may suggest now therapeutic option by using NGF analogue to reduce ASCVD risk associated with metabolic syndrome.</p> Noha Usama Khalil, Usama Ahmed Khalil, Rodalia Mesallam Makhlouf, Ghada Mohammed Samir, Atef Gouda Hussein, Fayrouz Othman Selim, Moataz Mohammad Hisham, Shimaa Morsy Mohammed ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2088 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Cognitive impairment in diabetes: the impending pandemic https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/1729 <p>Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus affects more than 450 million people worldwide. Cognitive impairment is a less recognized chronic complication of diabetes and is referred to as accelerated cognitive aging. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment is a tool to screen for mild cognitive impairment. Our study aimed to determine the factors associated with cognitive impairment in patients with Diabetes Mellitus in a tertiary care center in South India. This was a cross-sectional study done on 109 patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus over a period of 18 months. Montreal Cognitive Assessment scale was administered to subjects in the local language. Cognitive impairment was defined as a score of 25 or less. Data was analyzed using student t-test, chi square test and rank correlation; p-value &lt;0.005 was considered significant. The mean age of subjects was 50.92±10.10 years. Fifty three percent of subjects (58) were male and 46.8% (51) were female. The prevalence of cognitive impairment was 67%. The risk of cognitive impairment increased with the number of episodes of hypoglycemia, the mean duration of diabetes and higher fasting sugars. The duration of formal schooling decreased the risk of cognitive decline. In India the prevalence of cognitive impairment in patients with diabetes is relatively high. Both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia seem to be associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment. The risk of impairment is directly proportional to the duration of diabetes and inversely proportional to the duration of formal education. Since therapies to treat dementia once it sets in are not infallible, prevention becomes key. A fine balance between achieving euglycemia and avoiding hypoglycemia must be achieved.</p> Karun Mammen Philip, Smitha Bhat ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/1729 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Integrated glycaemic and inflammatory risk stratification for postoperative complications in diabetic patients undergoing cardiac surgery and interventions: a retrospective observational analysis https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2124 <p>Diabetic patients’ post-operative cardiac events are affected by several modifiable risk factors, with most prominence attributed to perioperative glycaemic variability and systemic inflammation. The proposed research seeks to examine the multivariate interactions between glycaemic control, pharmacologic interventions, and inflammatory markers in predicting post-operative complications. A retrospective observational analysis was carried out in 111 diabetic patients who received cardiac surgical or interventional procedures at Velavan Hospital, Tiruchengode, over a period of six months. Information was obtained from patient records such as demographic factors, comorbid conditions, pharmacologic treatment, glycaemic profiles, and inflammatory biomarkers (neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio [NLR], C-reactive protein [CRP]). Outcomes measured were atrial fibrillation (AF), acute kidney injury (AKI), ICU stay, readmissions, and mortality. The statistical analyses involved chi-square testing and multivariate logistic regression. Both hyperglycaemic (RBS ≥180 mg/dL) and inflamed (NLR &gt;3.5) patients showed significantly increased incidences of AF (41.2%), AKI (32.4%), longer ICU stays (64.7%), and death (8.8%). Regression analysis also validated both glycaemic instability (OR: 2.74) and increased inflammation (OR: 2.96) as independent predictors of adverse outcomes. Pharmacologic analysis indicated that complication rates were lower in patients on metformin–vildagliptin compared to sulfonylurea or insulin. The additive effect of glycaemic and inflammatory burden is a potent predictor of post-operative complication in diabetic cardiac patients. Merging real-time glucose control with inflammatory monitoring and tailored pharmacologic regimens has the potential to significantly enhance clinical outcomes and diminish hospital burden.</p> Anand Kumar Sengodan, Thilagesh Ponnuvel, Shobana Poovaragavan, Aiswarya Ashok Nair, Senthoorapandi Palanisamy, Tipkumar Ravi, Shankar Ganesh Muthusamy ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2124 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Morphological assessment of structural reorganization of the testicular hemomicrocirculatory bed under conditions of diabetes mellitus and burn trauma https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2185 <p>The study of structural changes in the testes under conditions of common pathologies, such as diabetes mellitus and burn disease, is extremely important due to their systemic impact on the vascular system and the high risk of developing multiple organ failure. The aim of this work was to conduct a morphometric assessment of the structural reorganization of the testicular hemomicrocirculatory bed in experimental diabetes mellitus, burn injury, and their combination. The study was conducted on 43 white male rats. The diameters of arterioles, capillaries, and venules, as well as the density of microvessels, were determined morphometrically. It was established that in all pathological conditions, there is a narrowing of the arterial link and an expansion of the venous link. The degree of pathological reorganization was more prominent in the left testis. The most pronounced changes were recorded in the combination of diabetes and burn: the diameter of the arterioles of the left testis decreased by 32.0%, precapillary arterioles by 36.0%, and the lumen of the hemocapillaries by 24.7%. At the same time, the diameter of the postcapillary venules increased by 44.2% and venules by 47.8%. The density of microvessels in the combined lesion decreased nearly twofold by 49.0%, indicating a critical deterioration of the blood supply and pronounced venous stasis. The combination of diabetes mellitus and burn injury leads to deep destructive restructuring of the microcirculatory bed of the testes.</p> Serhiy Konovalenko, Myroslav Kritsak, Irina Dzevulska, Ruzhena Matkivska, Rostyslav Kaminsky, Valentyn Tytarenko, Iryna Ibrahimova ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2185 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Obesity indices and ultra-processed food intake in relation to diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2148 <p>Diabetes mellitus remains a major global health problem. Lifestyle changes associated with modernization increase obesity and ultra-processed food consumption, both considered risk factors for diabetes. Obesity can be assessed using several anthropometric indices, such as BMI, WC, WHR, and WHrT. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the obesity index and ultra-processed food consumption with the incidence of diabetes mellitus. This quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted in Semarang from January to May 2025 among 75 adults aged 26–45 years selected by purposive sampling. Fasting blood glucose was measured using the glucose oxidase enzymatic method. The obesity indices were assessed through anthropometric measurements, while ultra-processed food intake was obtained using a modified semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate tests, including the independent t-test, the Mann-Whitney U test, and the Pearson test.: Diabetes mellitus was identified in 30.7% of respondents, and 46.7% had a high WHR. WHR showed the highest predictive ability for diabetes mellitus (AUC=0.76). Ultra-processed food intake contributed 30.29% of total daily energy intake, with 44% of respondents in quintile 4. WHR was significantly associated with diabetes mellitus (r=0.563; p=0.01), whereas ultra-processed food intake was not (r=0.333; p=0.077). WHR is the best indicator of diabetes mellitus, whereas consumption of ultra-processed foods showed no significant association in this study.</p> Aryanti Setyaningsih, Yanesti Nuravianda Lestari, Zuhria Ismawanti, Arwin Muhlishoh ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2148 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Diabetes mellitus: glycemic control, weight status, and state of application of hygiene and dietary measures of adult diabetic patients https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2147 <p>In diabetics, effective management of glycemic control is based on compliance with hygiene and dietary rules. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between glycemic control, weight status, and the application of hygiene and dietary measures among diabetic adults. The study was conducted among 322 diabetic patients. Weight, height and waist circumference (WC) were measured. Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) was used to evaluate the glycemic control: under control diabetes (HbA1c≤7%) uncontrolled diabetes (HbA1c&gt;7%). The questionnaire addressed the socio-demographic characters, diabetes characteristics, nutrition knowledge and application of hygiene and dietary measures in the last three months. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSSS. 50.60% of subjects had uncontrolled diabetes and 50.3% of them had obesity. Obesity was more pronounced in females than males (p=0.0001) and in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) than Type 1 patient’s (p=0.0001). Body mass index (p=0.005) and WC (p=0.0100) were inversely associated to HbA1c values. Application of hygiene and dietary measures was significantly related to HbA1c (p=0.0100) and weight-status (p=0.0200). General nutritional knowledge was limited among diabetic patients. A personalized approach combining a healthy lifestyle and regular medical monitoring of the diabetic patient will help them to adhere to these measures for optimal glycemic control.</p> Ouassila Allam, Meriem Bencharif, Hayet Oulamara, Omayma Boudjelthia, Rihem Khouloud Daoud, Roua Boukhennoufa, Nassim Nouri ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2147 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Morphometric characteristics of the vascular bed in the rectus abdominis muscle during correction of diabetic myopathy with mesenchymal stem cells https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2197 <p>The aim of the study was to analyze the morphometric characteristics of the vascular bed in the rectus abdominis muscle and to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell therapy in an experimental model of type 2 diabetes. The study was conducted on 30 rats divided into three groups: control, untreated diabetes, and diabetes treated with MSCs. Morphometric, histological, and statistical methods were employed. It was established that the progression of diabetes is accompanied by inward hypertrophic remodeling of the arteries: the Voganworth index increased to (38.5±3.41) %, while the vascular lumen narrowed to (18.9±1.23) μm. Significant endothelial destruction (31.6±3.40) % and mucoid swelling of the vascular wall were observed. The administration of MSCs led to a significant correction of the metabolic profile and initiated reverse remodeling processes. In the MSC-treated group, there was an expansion of the arterial lumen, a reduction in media thickness to (5.53±0.46) μm, and a 2.6-fold decrease in the volume of endothelial damage compared to the untreated diabetic group. Histological analysis confirmed the stabilization of the connective tissue matrix and regression of vascular wall edema under the influence of cell therapy. Mesenchymal stem cells exhibit a pronounced angioprotective effect, restoring the microvascular architecture and improving tissue insulin sensitivity, which highlights their potential for the treatment of diabetic myopathy.</p> Myroslav Kritsak, Serhiy Konovalenko, Oleh Kuziv, Oleh Yasinovskyi ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2197 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Impact of stringent versus moderate glycaemic control on the outcome of necrotizing otitis externa https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2201 <p>Glycaemic control is an essential component in necrotizing otitis externa (NOE) management. The aim of this study was to compare the impact of stringent versus moderate glycaemic control on the outcome of NOE. A retrospective cohort study carried out among 94 diabetic patients with NOE divided into 2 groups A&amp;B. Patients in group A had stringent glycaemic control while those in group B had moderate glycaemic control. The two groups were then compared to each other as regards age, gender, culture results, cranial nerve palsy, HbA1C level, inflammatory markers including ESR and CRP levels, duration of hospitalization and surgical intervention. Groups A and B comprised 41 and 53 patients respectively. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was significantly lower in group A (P-value 0.04). Cranial nerve palsy was significantly lower in group A (P-value 0. 04). The mean HbA1c level±SD was significantly lower in group A (P-value&lt;0.001). The mean ESR level±SD after 2 weeks of medical treatment was significantly lower in group A (P-value&lt;0.001). Similarly, the mean CRP level±SD after 2 weeks of medical treatment was significantly lower in the group A (P-value 0.03). Patients in group A were associated with significantly less hospital stay (P-value&lt;0.001) and less need for surgical intervention (P-value 0.03). Despite the risk of hypoglycaemia, stringent glycaemic control appeared to improve the outcome of NOE in comparison to moderate glycaemic control.</p> Sally Sameh Ahmed, Mohammed Abdelbadie Salem, Ahmed Abdoo Elzehzahy, Ahmed Hemdan ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2201 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Universal regulator adropin in patients with cardiorenal metabolic syndrome https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2108 <p>The level of an adropin is a cytokine regulator of energy balance and metabolism of lipids and carbohydrates in the patients with the cardiorenal metabolic syndrome (CRMs) progression has not been precisely established. The purpose of the study was to determine adropin levels in different stages of CRMs and its correlations with other parameters. 70 patients with arterial hypertension stage 2, grade 2 were examined under the control of the University bioethics commission in compliance with the Helsinki Declaration of Human Rights. They were divided into 5 groups (G0, 1, 2, 3a, 3) depending on the stage of CRMs and glomerular filtration rate. The serum adropin level was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A body mass index, triglyceride-glucose index, and de Ritis index were calculated too. The results were statistically processed. Worsening of blood pressure control was accompanied by an increase in blood adropin level. The level of adropin did not depend on the stage of CRMs signifacantly. Adropin levels correlated with clinical metabolic parameters of obesity, triglycerides, glucose, triglyceride-glucose index, de Ritis index, blood pressure levels, left atrial size and left ventricular wall thickness in different way during kidney function decreasing. Adropin’s correlations varied depending on the stage of CKMs, glomerular filtration rate, sex, age, and blood pressure control. The level of adropin did not depend on the stage of CRMs, but correlated differently with clinical and laboratory parameters.</p> Marta Kondratyuk, Natalia Pokrovska, Olena Radchenko, Anzhelika Filipyuk, Serhii Stadnik ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2108 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 The relationship between nutrition literacy and the consumption of high-glycemic-index foods and fasting blood glucose levels in people with diabetes https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2218 <p>Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a growing health problem in Indonesia and is closely linked to dietary patterns and individuals’ ability to understand nutritional information. This study aims to analyze the relationship between nutritional literacy and the consumption of high-glycemic index (GI) foods with fasting blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study employed an analytical observational design with a cross-sectional approach. The study sample consisted of 46 respondents selected using purposive sampling in the service area of the Telukjambe Community Health Center. Data were collected via the Nutrition Literacy Scale for Diabetic Patients questionnaire, the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and fasting blood glucose measurements. Data analysis was performed using the chi-square test. The results showed a significant association between nutrition literacy and fasting blood glucose levels (p=0.007), as well as an association between the consumption pattern of high-glycemic index foods and fasting blood glucose levels (p=0.005). Respondents with low nutrition literacy and a higher frequency of consuming high-GI foods tended to have higher fasting blood glucose levels. The conclusion of this study indicates that nutritional literacy and dietary patterns play a crucial role in controlling blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Therefore, improving nutritional literacy and adopting a low-glycemic-index diet are necessary measures for diabetes management.</p> Haipa Irdayanti, Ratih Kurniasari, Eka Andriani ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2218 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Metabolic diseases and mental disorders in female subfertility: effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy intervention https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2227 <p>Women with impaired fertility and metabolic disturbances often experience anxiety, depressive symptoms, emotional overeating, and dysfunctional beliefs related to body weight and self-image. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a structured cognitive behavioral therapy program in this patient group. A total of 609 women with metabolic disturbances were initially screened, including 314 women with primary or secondary subfertility; 240 eligible women aged 25–44 years were subsequently included in the prospective randomized controlled trial. Participants were randomized to standard care combined with a 12-week cognitive behavioral therapy program or to standard care alone. Psychological, behavioral, anthropometric, and laboratory parameters were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks. The intervention group showed a greater reduction in depressive and anxiety symptoms than the control group. Cognitive behavioral therapy was also associated with fewer maladaptive automatic thoughts, reduced emotional overeating, increased physical activity, better dietary adherence, and moderate improvements in body mass index, waist circumference, glucose metabolism, and lipid profile. Cognitive behavioral therapy may be an effective component of interdisciplinary care for women with subfertility and metabolic disturbances.</p> Volodymyr Artyomenko, Dmytro Zhelezov, Daria Lahoda, Sergiy Derishov, Ganna Velichko, Victoria Kugel, Artem Baratiuk, Ioan Dumitru Suciu ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2227 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Complex glycemic instability in a patient with nesidioblastosis: diagnostic and therapeutic challenges https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2107 <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;">Diffuse congenital hyperinsulinism (CH) can be resistant to medical therapy and may require total pancreatectomy. This procedure controls hypoglycemia but frequently results in pancreatogenic diabetes (type 3c) and persistent exocrine insufficiency, creating significant management challenges. A 14-year-old female with a family history of CH and recurrent hypoglycemia since infancy was initially treated with diazoxide (15 mg/kg/day) and high-carbohydrate intake, which failed. She underwent subtotal pancreatectomy at age 3, without improvement. A total pancreatectomy at age 5 led to insulin-dependent diabetes. She was managed with conventional insulin (1 U/kg/day), pancreatic enzyme replacement (Creon 7,500 U/kg/day), and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). At age 14, she presented with poorly controlled diabetes (HbA1c 12.6%) characterized by unstable glycemia and frequent severe hypoglycemia despite insulin analogues. She also had steatorrhea (5 greasy stools/day; 13 g/24 h) without other signs of malabsorption. Laboratory results were within normal limits for calcium, potassium, and hemoglobin. No micro- or macrovascular complications were observed. Management included insulin dose adjustment, optimization of pancreatic enzymes, and continuation of vitamin supplementation. Pancreatogenic diabetes after total pancreatectomy for diffuse CH requires individualized, multidisciplinary management. Careful optimization of insulin therapy, pancreatic enzyme replacement, and vitamin supplementation is essential to achieve metabolic stability, prevent hypoglycemia, and maintain nutritional status.</p> Chaima Jemai, Yesmine Jallouli, Yosra Htira, Dorsaf Ben Salem, Olfa Lajili, Imen Hedfi, Zohra Hadj Ali, Faika Ben Mami ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2107 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Type 2 diabetes mellitus: a silent threat to male and female infertility https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2081 <p>Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and hyperglycaemia, with global prevalence rising at an alarming rate. Beyond its well-established role in cardiovascular, renal, and neurological complications, T2DM exerts a significant yet often overlooked impact on reproductive health. This review synthesizes current evidence on the relationship between T2DM and infertility in both males and females, exploring epidemiological trends, molecular mechanisms, and clinical implications. T2DM contributes to infertility through endocrine dysfunction, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and microvascular damage, disrupting gonadal steroidogenesis, gametogenesis, and implantation. Genetic predisposition plays a critical role, with variants in genes such as PPARG, IRS1, IRS2, and SHBG influencing susceptibility and severity of reproductive impairment. Emerging data suggest that T2DM-induced reproductive dysfunction is mediated by a complex interplay of metabolic, hormonal, and genetic factors, underscoring the need for precision medicine approaches. Despite growing research, significant gaps remain, including a lack of longitudinal studies, underrepresentation of male infertility data, and limited exploration of epigenetic mechanisms. Addressing these gaps through multidisciplinary, multi-omics, and intervention-based studies could improve fertility outcomes in individuals with T2DM.</p> Malliga Rajendran, Praveen Kumar Chandra Sekar, Ramakrishnan Veerabathiran ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2081 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Obesity pharmacotherapy: 2026 update recommendations for the care of persons with obesity in Romania https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2217 <p>This article presents the 2026 update of the FORO (Romanian Obesity Forum) recommendations for the pharmacological management of persons with obesity. The update focuses on the three incretin-mimetic anti-obesity medications (AOMs) currently approved by the European Medicines Agency and available in Romania: liraglutide, semaglutide (including the newly approved 7.2 mg weekly dose), and tirzepatide, a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. In addition, agents with limited use — orlistat, naltrexone/bupropion, and setmelanotide — are briefly reviewed. A novel risk stratification tool, the RO score (Obesity Risk), is proposed to guide prioritization of pharmacotherapy. The score integrates anthropometric criteria (body mass index [BMI], waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio), Edmonton Obesity Staging System disease stage, and cardiovascular risk category. AOM selection is primarily guided by the presence or absence of obesity-associated complications, with therapeutic decisions supported by evidence from landmark phase 3 trials addressing cardiovascular outcomes, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, metabolic steatohepatitis, prediabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, and knee osteoarthritis. Practical guidance is provided on contraindications, adverse effects, nutritional monitoring, perioperative management, and use in special circumstances including pregnancy planning. An updated treatment algorithm is included to aid clinicians’ decisions, aligned with current international obesity pharmacotherapy guidelines.</p> Cornelia Bala, Catalina Poiana, Gabriela Roman, Nicolae Hancu ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2217 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Molecular pathways of diabetic neuropathy: mechanistic insights and advances in experimental models https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2139 <p>Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is known as chronic metabolic illness characterized by hyperglycemia. Nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy, osteopathy, and various other consequences are caused by chronic hyperglycaemia. Among all diabetic complications, diabetic neuropathy is enervating complication which may leads to numbness, pain, fatigue, muscle weakness and foot ulcers. This review article focusses on detailed overview on pathophysiology of Diabetic Neuropathy (DN). Animal models have long been indispensable for investigating and characterizing disease pathogenesis, identifying disease targets, and assessing novel therapeutic agents and treatments in vivo. This review gives a fundamental summary of diabetes, its causes, and its effects on animal models of diabetes induction, pathophysiology and use of animals in various approaches such as chemical, surgical, genetic, viral, hormonal etc. Additionally, this paper emphasises on pathways related to neuropathy and about various animal models for diabetes.</p> Nikhat Warsi, Vaishali Chadha, Ashok Kumar Gupta, Ambika Nand Jha ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2139 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300 Interwoven strands: the complex connection between diabetes, depression, and periodontal disease https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2071 <p>Maintaining good oral health throughout life is essential for overall wellbeing, as it is frequently seen as a mirror of general health. Beyond comfort and appearance, dental health is important because it is inextricably related to overall health and quality of life. Even with improvements in dental care, oral health issues are still common worldwide, with dental caries and periodontal diseases being the most common. Growing research indicates that oral infections, especially periodontal disease, might worsen systemic inflammation, which in turn supports the etiopathogenesis of a number of chronic diseases. A complex relationship between mental health issues, especially depression, and dental health conditions is suggested by emerging studies. The chronic inflammation associated with periodontal disease is one potential mechanism linking these conditions. This underscores the importance of considering oral health within a holistic framework of overall health management. A commitment to good oral hygiene, which includes brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, is crucial for preventing oral disorders as well as lowering the chance of related systemic conditions as per their interconnection. Including dental health in primary care is essential for holistic health management, especially for those with chronic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other systemic illness.</p> Swati Bhatnagar, Abhishek Bhatnagar, Sangeeta Umesh Nayak, Keshava Pai Kota, Sushmita Tiwari, David Kadakampally ##submission.copyrightStatement## https://mail.rjdnmd.org/index.php/RJDNMD/article/view/2071 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0300