EndoBreak: Intragastric Balloon Alert; Soda Warning Label?

The FDA issued an alert regarding intragastric balloon systems used to treat obesity. The statement warned against the potential for over-inflating the balloons, which then require surgical intervention, and can trigger acute pancreatitis. Currently, there are two FDA approved balloon systems on the market -- ReShape Integrated Dual Balloon System and Orbera Intragastric Balloon System.

Phase III clinical trial results were released this week for a bio-identical 17β-estradiol applicator free vaginal softgel capsule. The findings were promising for treating vulvar and vaginal atrophy after the capsule received high marks from post-menopausal participants, with study author Sheryl Kingsberg, PhD, calling it "a more elegant delivery system that is easier to use and not messy." (Menopause)

Due to the health implications such as diabetes and obesity, soda taxes have been popping in cities across the country. Taking the "war on sugar" one step further, a California state senator, Bill Monning, is pushing for a new law to put warning labels on sugary beverages. (Reuters)

Banned endocrine-disrupting chemicals were found in the deep ocean, over 6 miles down. The chemicals included polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) -- banned in the U.S. in 1979 -- and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). "What we don't yet know is what this means for the wider ecosystem and understanding that will be the next major challenge," said lead study author Alan Jamieson, PhD, in a press release. (Nature Ecology & Evolution)

An evidence review identified a gap in current treatments for osteoporosis. Greater attention to prevention approaches, public awareness, and access to treatment are required to close the gap, according to researchers. (Osteoporosis International)

Greater awareness is required when prescribing medications to patients with obesity, according to a new guidance published in Gastroenterology. Because certain medications may promote or hinder weight loss among patients with obesity, healthcare providers should become more familiar with the side effects and interactions when prescribing medication.

In order to assess artificial pancreas systems for the management of type 1 diabetes, the Joslin Diabetes Center will be participating in two NIH clinical trials. The first of the studies -- International Diabetes Closed-Loop Trial -- will test a continuous glucose monitor and insulin pump wirelessly monitored through the user's smartphone. (Newswise)

Klotho, a hormone protective against aging, may be used as a predictor for diabetic kidney disease in people with type 1 diabetes. Lower circulating levels of the hormone were associated with a higher risk of microalbuminuria, the new study found. (Diabetologia)

In patients with type 2 diabetes, optical coherence tomographic angiography can be used to assess diabetic retinopathy. The new, noninvasive imaging technique works through quantifying the capillary microvasculature in diabetic patients. (JAMA Ophthalmology)

A small study reported promising results showing the potential for a novel type 1 diabetes treatment. Injected into the lymph nodes, a small dose of GAD-alum, a protein based on GAD65, helps to build the immune system's tolerance to the protein. (New England Journal of Medicine)

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