In this week's Homerun Slides, genetics 101 for diabetes mellitus and the implications of the new beta-cell construct.

Oral glucose: At any point in time, the glycemic response to exogenous glucose is the balance between the rate at which glucose appears in the systemic circulation (from oral as well as endogenous sources) and the rate at which glucose is disposed of. Oral glucose appearance in the peripheral circulation depends on: (a) the rate at which the gastric contents are passed on to the small intestine; (b) the rate of intestinal glucose absorption; (c) the extent of gut glucose utilization; (d) the degree of hepatic glucose trapping; and (e) the dynamics of glucose transfer through gut, liver, and posthepatic circulation on to the right heart.

One of the most attended presentations at the ADA Scientific Sessions was a short talk by Mark Espeland, Ph.D. He was focusing on how weight reduction and physical activity can have a positive effect on cognitive function. When our Publisher, Steve Freed, caught up with him, he was surprised to …

Combination ANRI sacubitril/valsartan (EntrestoR) showed significant reduction in risk for cardiovascular death and hospitalization for worsening heart failure.

Study prompts more concerns for future seniors with diabetes.

Studies show that half of Chinese adults have an increased risk for prediabetes and diabetes; Tibetan and Muslim Chinese at lowest risk.

Dr. Mark Espeland, PhD is the founding chair of the Department of Biostatistical Sciences at Wake Forest School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, NC. In this interview, he discusses his presentation on lifestyle intervention in diabetes, the LOOK AHEAD study.

A 62-year-old man presents with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and albuminuria. His seated BP is 162/104 mm Hg. What's an ideal blood pressure target for this patient? A. 140/90 mm Hg B. 130/80 mm Hg C. 120/70 mm Hg D. 150/80 mm Hg Follow the link to see the right answer.

Through a partnership with Glooko, a leading diabetes data management platform, Novo Nordisk has launched a new mobile app – Cornerstones4Care (C4C) – which will help people more effectively track and manage their diabetes day-to-day.

At what A1c level would you recommend the use of metformin? 1. 5.6% 2. 5.7 – 5.9% 3. 6.0% 4. 6.1 – 6.2% 5. 6.3 – 6.4% 6. 6.5 – 7% Follow the link to share your response.