Reduced Efficacy of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists Therapy in People With Type 1 Diabetes and Genetic Forms of Obesity

This article has been temporarily removed for correction.

Emerging Technologies and Therapeutics for Type 1 Diabetes

Recent years witnessed advancements in diabetes technologies and therapeutics. People with type 1 diabetes have more options to control their blood glucose, prevent hypoglycemia, and spend more time with their loved ones. Newer diabetes technologies and therapeutics improve the quality of life and boost the confidence of people with type 1 diabetes. In parallel to changes in the diabetes technology field, stem cell research has been evolving. Gene editing and production of β cells from stem cells are ongoing. The current focus of cure studies is how to increase the survival of cells produced with stem cells. New adjunctive therapies are under development.

Limitations of 14-Day Continuous Glucose Monitoring Sampling for Assessment of Hypoglycemia and Glycemic Variability in Type 1 Diabetes

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has become the standard of care in diabetes management with the recent advances in technology and accessibility in the last decade. An International Consensus was established to define CGM metrics and its goals in diabetes care. The 2019 International Consensus suggested 14 days of CGM sampling for the assessment of CGM metrics stating the limitations that may occur for hypoglycemia and glycemic variability metrics. Since then, several studies assessed the correlation between CGM metrics and duration of the sampling period. This review summarized the studies that investigated the relationship between 14-day CGM sampling to 90-day CGM data in >70% CGM users for all CGM metrics and highlighted possible solutions for more accurate CGM sampling durations in type 1 diabetes (T1D). Accumulating evidence showed that 14-day CGM sampling correlates well with 90-day CGM data for mean glucose, time in 70-180 mg/dL, and hyperglycemia metrics; however, it correlates weakly for hypoglycemia and glycemic variability metrics. In the studies included in this review, in adults with T1D, minimum sampling duration was 14 days for mean glucose, time in 70-180 mg/dL, and time in hyperglycemia (>180 and >250 mg/dL); however, minimum sampling duration varied between 21 to 30 days for time <70 mg/dL, 30 to 35 days for time <54 mg/dL, and 28 to 35 days for coefficient of variation. Longer than 14 days of CGM, sampling was required to properly assess hypoglycemia and glycemic variability in T1D.

Efficacy and Safety of Tirzepatide in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: A Proof of Concept Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Tirzepatide is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the management of type 2 diabetes. The efficacy and safety of this drug have not been studied in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

In this single-center, retrospective, observational study, hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), weight, body mass index (BMI), and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data were collected from electronic health records of adults with T1D at initiation of tirzepatide and at subsequent clinic visits over 8 months. Primary outcomes were reduction in HbA1c and percent change in body weight and secondary outcomes were change in CGM metrics and BMI over 8 months from baseline.

RESULTS

The mean (±SD) age of the 26 adults (54% female) with T1D was 42 ± 8 years with a mean BMI of 36.7 ± 5.3 kg/m2. There was significant reduction in HbA1c by 0.45% at 3 months and 0.59% at 8 months, and a significant reduction in body weight by 3.4%, 10.5%, and 10.1% at 3, 6, and 8 months after starting tirzepatide. Time in target range (TIR = 70-180 mg/dL) and time in tight target range (TITR = 70-140 mg/dL) increased (+12.6%, P = .002; +10.7%, P = .0016, respectively) and time above range (TAR >180 mg/dL) decreased (-12.6%, P = .002) at 3 months, and these changes were sustained over 8 months. The drug was relatively safe and well tolerated with only 2 patients discontinuing the medication.

CONCLUSIONS

Tirzepatide significantly reduced HbA1c and body weight in adults with T1D. A randomized controlled trial is needed to establish efficacy and safety of this drug in T1D.

Health Care Professionals' Perspectives on Use of Diabetes Technologies for Managing Visually Impaired Patients With Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Despite well-established safety and efficacy of diabetes technologies in management of diabetes, their utility in visually impaired patients is currently unknown. We aimed to identify providers' preferences and challenges to prescribing diabetes technologies for visually impaired patients.

METHODS

A survey-based study among health care providers in the United States seeing visually impaired patients with diabetes and using diabetes technologies was conducted. The quantitative and qualitative responses were analyzed using Student t test and χ2 tests.

RESULTS

Of 79 providers, 66 completed the survey and were included in the analysis. Insulin pens and hybrid closed-loop systems were preferred insulin delivery systems for managing visually impaired patients with diabetes. Despite 96% of the providers recommending continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for their visually impaired patients with diabetes, only 55% were aware of the voice-activation feature of Dexcom G6. Voice activation to announce glucose values and audible glucose alerts were two major incentives for selecting CGM. System initialization was seen as a prevalent challenge of using CGM in visually impaired patients with diabetes. Providers who are using CGM for visually impaired patients reported benefits for patients using the voice-activation feature for six months included HbA1c reductions of >0.5% (by 87% of providers) and less hypoglycemia (by 45% of providers).

CONCLUSIONS

The CGM is the preferred glucose monitoring method for managing visually impaired patients with diabetes. Providers face many challenges of initiating CGM in these high-risk patients. Voice-activation feature of G6 CGM is underutilized and providers who used the system reported positive outcomes in visually impaired patients.

Racial Disparities in Diabetes Technology Adoption and Their Association with HbA1c and Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Aim

Poorer glycemic control and higher diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) rates are seen in racial/ethnic minorities with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Use of diabetes technologies such as continuous glucose monitors (CGM), continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and automated insulin delivery (AID) systems has been shown to improve glycemic control and reduce DKA risk. We examined race/ethnicity differences in diabetes technology use and their relationship with HbA1c and DKA.

Methods

Data from patients aged ≥12 years with T1D for ≥1 year, receiving care from a single diabetes center, were examined. Patients were classified as Non-Hispanic White (n=3945), Non-Hispanic Black (Black, n=161), Hispanic (n=719), and Multiracial/Other (n=714). General linear models and logistic regression were used.

Results

Black (OR=0.22, 0.15-0.32) and Hispanic (OR=0.37, 0.30-0.45) patients were less likely to use diabetes technology. This disparity was greater in the pediatric population (p-interaction=0.06). Technology use associated with lower HbA1c in each race/ethnic group. Among technology users, AID use associated with lower HbA1c compared to CGM and/or CSII (HbA1c of 8.4% vs 9.2%, respectively), with the greatest difference observed for Black adult AID users. CSII use associated with a lower odds of DKA in the past year (OR=0.73, 0.54-0.99), a relationship that did not vary by race (p-interaction =0.69); this inverse association with DKA was not observed for CGM or AID.

Conclusion

Disparities in diabetes technology use, DKA, and glycemic control were apparent among Black and Hispanic patients with T1D. Differences in technology use ameliorated but did not fully account for disparities in HbA1c or DKA.

Prevalence of fear of hypoglycemia in adults with type 1 diabetes using a newly developed screener and clinician's perspective on its implementation

INTRODUCTION

Fear of hypoglycemia (FoH) affects quality of life, emotional well-being, and diabetes management among people with type 1 diabetes (PwT1D). American Diabetes Association's (ADA) guidelines recommend assessing FoH in clinical practice. However, existing FoH measures are commonly used in research and not in clinical practice. In this study, prevalence of FoH was assessed in PwT1D using a newly developed FoH screener for clinical practice; its association with established measures and outcomes was also determined. In addition, healthcare providers' (HCPs) perspectives on implementing FoH screener into real-world practice were explored.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This multiphase observational study used mixed methods in two phases. First, we collected a cross-sectional survey (including the screener) from PwT1D (≥18 years) from T1D Exchange Quality Improvement Collaborative adult clinics. Pearson correlations and regression analyses were performed on diabetes outcome measures using screener scores. Second, we conducted focus groups among HCPs who treat PwT1D and descriptive analysis to summarize results.

RESULTS

We included 553 PwT1D. Participants had a mean±SD age of 38.9±14.2 years and 30% reported a high FoH total score. Regression analyses showed that higher A1c and higher number of comorbidities were significantly associated with high FoH (p<0.001). High FoH worry and behavior scores were significantly associated with 8-Item Patient Health Questionnaire and 7-Item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale scores. Participants with ≥1 severe hypoglycemia event(s) and impaired awareness of hypoglycemia had higher odds of high FoH. Eleven HCPs participated in focus group interviews; they expressed that the FoH screener is clinically necessary and relevant but poses implementation challenges that must be addressed.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate FoH is common in PwT1D and affects their psychosocial well-being and diabetes management. In alignment with ADA position statement, HCP focus group results emphasize importance of screening for FoH. Implementing this newly developed FoH screener may help HCPs identify FoH in PwT1D.

Increased Technology Use Associated With Lower A1C in a Large Pediatric Clinical Population

OBJECTIVE

While continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), insulin pumps, and hybrid closed-loop (HCL) systems each improve glycemic control in type 1 diabetes, it is unclear how the use of these technologies impacts real-world pediatric care.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We found 1,455 patients aged <22 years, with type 1 diabetes duration >3 months, and who had data from a single center in between both 2016-2017 (n = 2,827) and 2020-2021 (n = 2,731). Patients were grouped by multiple daily injections or insulin pump, with or without an HCL system, and using a blood glucose monitor or CGM. Glycemic control was compared using linear mixed-effects models adjusting for age, diabetes duration, and race/ethnicity.

RESULTS

CGM use increased from 32.9 to 75.3%, and HCL use increased from 0.3 to 27.9%. Overall A1C decreased from 8.9 to 8.6% (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Adoption of CGM and HCL was associated with decreased A1C, suggesting promotion of these technologies may yield glycemic benefits.

Analysis of Human Leukocyte Antigen DR Alleles, Immune-Related Adverse Events, and Survival Associated With Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Use Among Patients With Advanced Malignant Melanoma

Importance

Treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has increased survival in patients with advanced malignant melanoma but can be associated with a wide range of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). The role of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DR alleles in conferring irAE risk has not been well studied.

Objective

To evaluate the association between irAEs and treatment response, survival, and the presence of HLA-DR alleles after ICI therapy in advanced melanoma.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This case-control study used the patient registry and biobanked samples from the tertiary referral University of Colorado Cancer Center. Specimens and clinical data were collected between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2021. Patients with advanced (stage III unresectable and stage IV) melanoma who received ICI therapy (n = 132) were included in the analysis.

Exposures

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4, anti-programmed cell death protein 1 or its ligand, or the combination) for the treatment of advanced melanoma.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The association between irAEs and response to therapy, survival, and HLA-DR alleles.

Results

Among the cohort of 132 patients with advanced melanoma (mean [SD] age, 63.4 [7.2] years; 85 men [64%] and 47 women [36%]) treated with ICIs, 73 patients had at least 1 irAE and 59 did not have an irAE. Compared with patients without an irAE, patients with an irAE had higher treatment response rates (50 of 72 [69%] vs 28 of 57 [49%]; P = .02) and increased survival (median, 4.8 [IQR, 0.2-9.6] vs 3.2 [IQR, 0.1-9.2] years; P = .02). Specific HLA-DR alleles were associated with the type of irAE that developed: 7 of 10 patients (70%) who developed type 1 diabetes had DR4; 6 of 12 (50%) who developed hypothyroidism had DR8; 5 of 8 (63%) who developed hypophysitis had DR15; 3 of 5 (60%) who developed pneumonitis had DR1; and 8 of 15 (53%) who developed hepatitis had DR4.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that IrAEs are associated with treatment response rates and increased survival after ICI therapy for advanced melanoma. Because distinct HLA-DR alleles are associated with given adverse events, HLA genotyping before ICI therapy may aid in identifying risk for specific irAEs that could develop with such treatment.

Impact of Different Types of Data Loss on Optimal Continuous Glucose Monitoring Sampling Duration

Aims: To determine if a longer duration of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sampling is needed to correctly assess the quality of glycemic control given different types of data loss. Materials and Methods: Data loss was generated in two different methods until the desired percentage of data loss (10-50%) was achieved with (1) eliminating random individual CGM values and (2) eliminating gaps of a predefined time length (1-5 h). For CGM metrics, days required to cross predetermined targets for median absolute percentage error (MdAPE) for the different data loss strategies were calculated and compared with current international consensus recommendation of >70% of optimal data sampling. Results: Up to 90 days of CGM data from 291 adults with type 1 diabetes were analyzed. MdAPE threshold crossing remained virtually constant for random CGM data loss up to 50% for all CGM metrics. However, the MdAPE crossing threshold increased when losing data with longer gaps. For all CGM metrics assessed in our study (%T70-180, %T < 70, %T < 54, %T > 180, and %T > 250), up to 50% data loss in a random manner did not cause any significant change on optimal sampling duration; however, >30% of data loss in gaps up to 5 h required longer optimal sampling duration. Conclusions: Optimal sampling duration for CGM metrics depends on percentage of data loss as well as duration of data loss. International consensus recommendation for 70% CGM data adequacy is sufficient to report %T70-180 with 2 weeks of data without large data gaps.

Efficacy and Safety of Tandem Control IQ Without User-Initiated Boluses in Adults with Uncontrolled Type 1 Diabetes

Background: Adults with poorly controlled type 1 diabetes (T1D) who are missing meal boluses are typically excluded from clinical trials of diabetes technologies. We investigated the long-term real-life outcomes of the Tandem Control IQ automated insulin delivery (AID) system in adults with T1D who are missing meal boluses. Methods: In this single-center study with 30 adults with T1D, we evaluated efficacy (A1c and time in target range [TIR]) and safety (time below range [TBR]) in adults with T1D who initiated Tandem Control IQ with minimal or no user-initiated boluses (auto >90%) compared with age, gender, and diabetes duration matched adults with T1D with intermediate (auto 50%-90%) and high bolusing behaviors (auto 10%-49%). Results: Regardless of engagement with Control IQ system, there were significant improvements in A1c and TIR in all three groups over 3, 6, and 12 months. Compared with baseline, there was significant decrease in A1c by 1.6% ± 0.8% and increase in TIR by 19.3% ± 6.4% (P < 0.001 for both) over 12 months of Tandem Control IQ use in auto >90% use group without increasing TBR. Conclusions: Tandem Control IQ is effective in lowering A1c and improving TIR without increasing TBR regardless of users' engagement with the system. Therefore, adults with T1D with high A1c who are mostly missing meal boluses should not be considered as inappropriate candidates for Control IQ AID system.

Accuracy and Safety of Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Adults with Diabetes

Background: We evaluated the accuracy and safety of a seventh generation (G7) Dexcom continuous glucose monitor (CGM) during 10.5 days of use in adults with diabetes. Methods: Adults with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes (on intensive insulin therapy or not) participated at 12 investigational sites in the United States. In-clinic visits were conducted on days 1 or 2, 4 or 7, and on the second half of day 10 or the first half of day 11 for frequent comparisons with comparator blood glucose measurements obtained with the YSI 2300 Stat Plus glucose analyzer. Participants wore sensors concurrently on the upper arm and abdomen. Accuracy evaluation included the proportion of CGM values within 15% of comparator glucose levels >100 mg/dL or within 15 mg/dL of comparator levels ≤100 mg/dL (%15/15), along with the %20/20 and %30/30 agreement rates. The mean absolute relative difference (MARD) between temporally matched CGM and comparator values was also calculated. Results: Data from 316 participants (619 sensors, 77,774 matched pairs) were analyzed. For arm- and abdomen-placed sensors, overall MARDs were 8.2% and 9.1%, respectively. Overall %15/15, %20/20, and %30/30 agreement rates were 89.6%, 95.3%, and 98.8% for arm-placed sensors and were 85.5%, 93.2%, and 98.1% for abdomen-placed sensors. Across days of wear, glucose concentration ranges, and rates of change, %20/20 agreement rates varied by no more than 9% from the overall %20/20. No serious adverse events were reported. Conclusions: The G7 CGM provides accurate glucose readings with single-digit MARD with arm or abdomen placement in adults with diabetes. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04794478.

Mitigation of Rebound Hyperglycemia With Real-Time Continuous Glucose Monitoring Data and Predictive Alerts

BACKGROUND

Excess carbohydrate intake during hypoglycemia can lead to rebound hyperglycemia (RH). We investigated associations between RH and use of real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rtCGM) and an rtCGM system's predictive alert.

METHODS

RH events were series of sensor glucose values (SGVs) >180 mg/dL starting within two hours of an antecedent SGV <70 mg/dL. Events were characterized by their frequency, duration (consecutive SGVs >180 mg/dL × five minutes), and severity (area under the glucose concentration-time curve). To assess the impact of rtCGM, data gathered during the four-week baseline phase (without rtCGM) and four-week follow-up phase (with rtCGM) from 75 participants in the HypoDE clinical trial (NCT02671968) of hypoglycemia-unaware individuals were compared. To assess the impact of predictive alerts, we identified a convenience sample of 24 518 users of an rtCGM system without predictive alerts who transitioned to a system whose predictive alert signals an SGV ≤55 mg/dL within 20 minutes (Dexcom G5 and G6, respectively). RH events from periods of blinded versus unblinded rtCGM wear and from periods of G5 and G6 wear were compared with paired t tests.

RESULTS

Compared to RH events in the HypoDE baseline phase, the mean frequency, duration, and severity of events fell by 14%, 12%, and 23%, respectively, in the follow-up phase (all P < .05). Compared to RH events during G5 use, the mean frequency, duration, and severity of events fell by 7%, 8%, and 13%, respectively, during G6 use (all P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Rebound hypreglycemia can be objectively quantified and mitigated with rtCGM and rtCGM-based predictive alerts.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring Initiation Within First Year of Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosis Is Associated With Improved Glycemic Outcomes: 7-Year Follow-Up Study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate long-term glycemic outcomes of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) initiation within the first year of type 1 diabetes diagnosis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients with type 1 diabetes (N = 396) were divided into three groups: 1) CGM (CGM use within 1 year of diabetes diagnosis and continued through the study), 2) no-CGM (no CGM use throughout the study), and 3) new-CGM (CGM use after 3 years since diabetes diagnosis). Patients were followed up to 7 years.

RESULTS

A1c was significantly lower in the CGM compared with the no-CGM group throughout 7 years of follow-up (least squares mean A1c values: 6 months, 7.3% vs. 8.1%; 1 year, 7.4% vs. 8.6%; 2 years, 7.7% vs. 9.1%; 3 years, 7.6% vs. 9.3%; 4 years, 7.4% vs. 9.6%; 5 years, 7.6% vs. 9.7%; 6 years, 7.5% vs. 10.0%; and 7 years, 7.6% vs. 9.8%; for all, P < 0.001) adjusting for age at diagnosis, sex, and insulin delivery method.

CONCLUSIONS

CGM initiation within first year of type 1 diabetes diagnosis results in long-term improvement in A1c.

Evaluation of Accuracy and Safety of the Next-Generation Up to 180-Day Long-Term Implantable Eversense Continuous Glucose Monitoring System: The PROMISE Study

Background: Use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems is being rapidly adopted as standard of care for insulin-requiring patients with diabetes. The PROMISE study (NCT03808376) evaluated the accuracy and safety of the next-generation implantable Eversense CGM system for up to 180 days. Methods: This was a prospective multicenter study involving 181 subjects with diabetes at 8 USA sites. All subjects were inserted with a primary sensor. Ninety-six subjects had a second sensor, either an identical sensor or a modified sensor (sacrificial boronic acid [SBA]), inserted in their other arm (53 and 43 subjects, respectively). Accuracy was evaluated by comparing CGM to YSI 2300 glucose analyzer (Yellow Springs Instrument [YSI]) values during 10 clinic visits (day 1-180). Confirmed event detection rates, calibration stability, sensor survival, and serious adverse events (SAEs) were evaluated. Results: For primary sensors, the percent CGM readings within 20%/20% of YSI values was 92.9%; overall mean absolute relative difference (MARD) was 9.1%. The confirmed alert detection rate at 70 mg/dL was 93% and at 180 mg/dL was 99%. The median percentage of time for one calibration per day was 56%. Sixty-five percent of the primary sensors survived to 180 days. For the SBA sensors, the percent CGM readings within 20%/20% of YSI values was 93.9%; overall MARD was 8.5%. The confirmed alert detection rate at 70 mg/dL was 94% and at 180 mg/dL was 99%. The median percentage of time for one calibration per day was 63%. Ninety percent of the SBA sensors survived to 180 days. No device- or insertion/removal procedure-related SAEs were reported. Conclusion: These data show the next-generation Eversense CGM system had sustained accuracy and safety up to 180 days, with an improved calibration scheme and survival, using the primary or SBA sensors.

Differentiating Diabetic Ketoacidosis and Hyperglycemic Ketosis Due to Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

To differentiate diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) from hyperglycemic ketosis due to cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (HK-CHS) in adults with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Of 295 adults with type 1 diabetes who were seen with DKA-related ICD-10 codes, 68 patients with 172 DKA events meeting the inclusion criteria were analyzed. Cannabis use was defined as a positive urine test result for cannabis. Linear mixed models were used to define HK-CHS (pH ≥7.4 with bicarbonate ≥15 mmol/L [mEq/L]), and sensitivity and specificity were calculated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

RESULTS

Cannabis users had significantly higher pH (7.42 ± 0.01 vs. 7.09 ± 0.02) and bicarbonate (19.2 ± 0.61 vs. 9.1 ± 0.71 mmol/L) (P < 0.0001) compared with nonusers. The area under the ROC curve for a positive cannabis urine test result predicting HK-CHS was 0.9892.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients who present with DKA and higher pH, especially pH ≥7.4, cannabis use should be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Comparison of Cgmanalysis, a Free Open-Source Continuous Glucose Monitoring Data Management and Analysis Software, with Commercially Available CGM Platforms: Data Standardization for Diabetes Technology Research

Background: Cgmanalysis is an open-source software based on the R programming language for data management and descriptive analysis of data from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). We sought to validate the summary measures calculated by cgmanalysis against the results from proprietary software associated with four CGM commercially available models. Methods: Two weeks of data from 188 patients with type 1 diabetes using commercially available CGMs. Freestyle Libre Gen 1 (n = 53), Medtronic Guardian 3 (n = 52), Dexcom G6 reported by Dexcom Clarity (n = 48), and Dexcom G6 reported by Tandem (n = 35) were analyzed using proprietary software and cgmanalysis. Agreement was assessed using scatterplots, Bland-Altman plots, and equivalence tests. Results: Good agreement was obtained for all glycemic summary measures for all CGMs assessed. None of the differences between the cgmanalysis package and the manufacturers' software were outside the prespecified bounds of equivalence. Conclusions: Cgmanalysis is a validated open-source software to analyze commercially available CGM data and can be used to standardize diabetes technology research.

Making Diabetes Electronic Medical Record Data Actionable: Promoting Benchmarking and Population Health Improvement Using the T1D Exchange Quality Improvement Portal

This article describes how the T1D Exchange Quality Improvement Collaborative leverages an innovative web platform, the QI Portal, to gather and store electronic medical record (EMR) data to promote benchmarking and population health improvement in a type 1 diabetes learning health system. The authors explain the value of the QI Portal, the process for mapping center-level data from EMRs using standardized data specifications, and the QI Portal's unique features for advancing population health.

Accuracy of a breath ketone analyzer to detect ketosis in adults and children with type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

To assess the accuracy of a breath ketone analyzer to detect ketosis in adults and children with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This is a proof-of-concept, prospective study comparing breath ketone analyzer and blood ketone meter to detect ketosis.

RESULTS

A total of 500 measurements from 19 adults and children with type 1 diabetes were analyzed. There was a significant association between the breath ketone analyzer and blood ketone meter results in non-fasting adults (p = 0.0066), but not in children (p = 0.4579). In adults, a cut-off of 3.9 PPM on the breath ketone analyzer maximized the Youden Index with an AUC of 0.73. This cut-off for the breath ketone analyzer had 94.7% sensitivity and 54.2% specificity to detect ketosis (≥0.6 mmol/L in blood ketone meter).

CONCLUSIONS

The breath ketone analyzer may be considered as a non-invasive screening tool to rule out ketosis in adults with type 1 diabetes.

Real-world performance of hybrid closed loop in youth, young adults, adults and older adults with type 1 diabetes: Identifying a clinical target for hybrid closed-loop use

AIM

To describe real-world hybrid closed loop (HCL) use and glycaemic outcomes across the lifespan and identify a clinical threshold for HCL use associated with meeting the internationally recommended target of 70% sensor glucose time in range (TIR; 70-180 mg/dL).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mixed models examined MiniMed 670G HCL use and glycaemic outcomes in 276 people with type 1 diabetes from four age groups: youth (aged <18 years), young adults (18-25 years), adults (26-49 years) and older adults (≥50 years) for 1 year. ROC analysis identified the minimum percentage HCL use associated with meeting the TIR goal of 70%.

RESULTS

HCL use at month 1 was 70.7% ± 2.9% for youth, 71.0% ± 3.8% for young adults, 78.9% ± 2.1% for adults and 84.7% ± 3.8% in older adults. HCL use declined significantly at 12 months to 49.3% ± 3.2% in youth (P < .001) and 55.7% ± 4.3% in young adults (P = .002). HCL use was sustained at 12 months in adults (76.4% ± 2.2%, P = .36) and older adults (80.4% ± 3.9%, P = .36). HCL use of 70.6% was associated with 70% TIR (sensitivity 58.3%, specificity 85%, AUC 0.77). Older age, 80% or higher continuous glucose monitor use and four or more blood glucose checks per day were associated with attaining the HCL-use threshold.

CONCLUSIONS

HCL use of 70% or higher may be a useful target for clinicians to use to assist people with diabetes in attaining glycaemic goals. Youth may struggle with HCL use more than adults and require clinical intervention to help sustain HCL use across time.

Real-World Evidence and Glycemic Improvement Using Dexcom G6 Features

Background: Optional features of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems empower patients and caregivers to understand and manage diabetes in new ways. We examined associations between use of optional features, demographics, and glycemic outcomes. Methods: Retrospective cohort studies were performed with data from US-based users of the G6 CGM System (Dexcom, Inc.). For all cohorts, data included sensor glucose values (SGVs). In separate cohorts, use of alert features (for hyperglycemia, existing hypoglycemia, and impending hypoglycemia), remote data sharing feature (Share), software for retrospective pattern analysis (CLARITY), "virtual assistant" feature that announces the current SGV and trend in response to a spoken request were assessed. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize feature set utilization patterns and relate them to glycemic outcomes. Results: Most individual features were consistently adopted by high proportions of G6 users. Threshold SGVs chosen for activating hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia alerts varied with age and were higher among the youngest and oldest patients. Use of the Share feature was more common among young patients and those with type 1 diabetes. Individuals who used more of the alert and notification features had more favorable glycemic outcomes, including time in range (TIR), than those who used fewer. More extensive engagement with CLARITY notifications was associated with higher TIR. Frequent use of the virtual assistant feature was associated with higher TIR and lower mean SGV. Conclusions: Optional features of the G6 CGM system are acceptable to and appear to benefit patients who use them. Different levels of engagement suggest that demographics and personal circumstances play a role in how patients and caregivers use CGM features to help manage diabetes.

Adverse events associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: a new era in autoimmune diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize a new form of autoimmune diabetes as an adverse event of specific cancer immunotherapies. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are revolutionary treatments in advanced cancers; however, they can cause type 1 diabetes following treatment with these state-of-the-art therapies.

RECENT FINDINGS

A review of the literature showed that this new form of autoimmune diabetes has significant similarities with childhood-onset type 1 diabetes but also some distinctions. It frequently presents with severe diabetic ketoacidosis and almost half of the patients have type 1 diabetes-associated antibodies at presentation. Rapid loss of residual beta-cell function with a lack of honeymoon phase is typical. Certain human leukocyte antigen risk genes for prototypical type 1 diabetes that develops in children and young adults are also commonly found in patients with immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced type 1 diabetes.

SUMMARY

Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced type 1 diabetes presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis is a life-threatening adverse event of cancer immunotherapy. Healthcare providers should be aware of this adverse event to prevent morbidity and mortality related to diabetic ketoacidosis. Developing guidelines to identify and monitor risk groups are of utmost importance.

A Novel and Easy Method to Locate and Remove First Approved Long-Term Implantable Glucose Sensors

Eversense is a long-term implantable continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system. Difficulty in locating and removing implanted sensors is one of the issues limiting its use. We propose using near-infrared (NIR) light to locate implanted glucose sensors. NIR light was used to locate implanted glucose sensors in 30 patients (age 18-62 years) with type 1 diabetes who use Eversense sensors for CGM. Duration of sensor implantation was 10-40 weeks (median 12 weeks). Out of 30 patients with type 1 diabetes, the NIR light located the implanted sensor in 24 patients (success rate 80%) within 5 s. Sensor implantation at the skin with tattoos and excessive freckles were two main reasons for failure to locate sensors using NIR. We report an innovative method to locate implanted glucose sensors in seconds, which would reduce the time significantly to remove the sensor.

Long-term real-life glycaemic outcomes with a hybrid closed-loop system compared with sensor-augmented pump therapy in patients with type 1 diabetes

AIM

To compare glycaemic metrics at 3 and 6 months in patients with type 1 diabetes on a 670G hybrid closed-loop (HCL) system after using a sensor-augmented pump (SAP) for at least 3 months.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study from a centre that has the largest number of 670G users in the United States was conducted. Data from 202 SAP users were reviewed. Sixty-one patients were excluded (two for steroid use, four for pregnancy, 27 for previous Enlite use, and 28 for non-continuous use of 670G). Out of 141 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 127 (aged 21-68 years) had complete data.

RESULTS

HbA1c levels decreased by 0.4% at 3 months and were maintained at 6 months (7.6 ± 0.07 vs. 7.2 ± 0.08, P < 0.001) with no weight gain at 6 months. Time-in-range (70-180 mg/dL) increased from 59.5% ± 1.1% to 70.2% ± 1.2% and 70.1% ± 1.1% at 3 and 6 months (P < 0.001), respectively. At 6 months, time spent in hypoglycaemia (<70 mg/dL) and time spent in hyperglycaemia (>180 mg/dL) were reduced by 30% (2.2% ± 0.2% vs. 3.2% ± 0.2%; P < 0.05) and 26% (28.3% ± 1.2% vs. 38.1% ± 1.2%; P < 0.001), respectively. More time in auto-mode was associated with improved continuous glucose monitoring metrics, lower HbA1c and decreased glycaemic variability. Time in auto-mode declined in men after 3 months, while women maintained similar auto-mode use throughout the study.

CONCLUSIONS

The HCL system improved HbA1c levels and time-in-range, and decreased time spent in hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia at 6 months. Auto-mode use was significantly correlated with continuous glucose monitoring metrics and glycaemic outcomes.

Technological advances shaping diabetes care

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To emphasize the current unmet needs for patients with diabetes and evaluate the recent technological advances in the diabetes field and summarize upcoming technologies in diabetes care. This review highlights emerging diabetes technologies and patient-centered diabetes management.

RECENT FINDINGS

A review of the literature showed that there is a clear benefit of using diabetes technologies in diabetes care. Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) created a new category of Class II integrated continuous glucose monitoring (iCGM) devices and announced new guidelines to accelerate the approval of future products. With the first-generation hybrid-closed loop, a new era opened in automated insulin delivery systems. Diabetes coaching, apps, and remote monitoring technologies eased access to the providers and increased patient's self-confidence for diabetes management.

SUMMARY

Improvements in diabetes technologies will hopefully overcome unmet needs for patients with diabetes and improve health outcomes. Patients will benefit from the upcoming technologies in their day-to-day diabetes management while providers may monitor patients remotely with ease and efficiently. These developments will decrease diabetes burden, improve quality of life, and open a new era of personalized diabetes care.

PD-1 Inhibitor Immune-Related Adverse Events in Patients With Preexisting Endocrine Autoimmunity

CONTEXT

Immune checkpoint inhibitors, including monoclonal antibodies directed against programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and its ligand, have emerged as beneficial cancer immunotherapies. These therapies are known to cause immune-related side effects; however, their role in patients with a preexisting autoimmune disease is not clear.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We describe two cases of anti-PD-1 immune-related adverse events. A 52-year-old male with longstanding type 1 diabetes (T1D), long-term stable kidney transplant, and hypothyroidism received two separate anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibodies for metastatic melanoma. The patient developed acute kidney graft rejection requiring hemodialysis and worsening of autoimmune hypothyroidism 3 weeks after starting treatment. He continued anti-PD-1 treatments and remained on hemodialysis and increased levothyroxine dosage. The second case is a 62-year-old male with no previous history of diabetes who received anti-PD-1 treatment and developed severe diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) 5 days following the start of therapy. Further laboratory testing revealed high titer antibodies directed against glutamic acid decarboxylase. These antibodies, which were of the IgG isotype and involved in memory immune responses, were likely present before anti-PD-1 treatment. He also had human leukocyte antigen genes that confer T1D genetic risk. Despite normal pretreatment blood glucose levels and HbA1c, the patient requires permanent exogenous insulin treatment.

CONCLUSION

Patients with preexisting endocrine autoimmunity may have more frequent and severe immune-related side effects with anti-PD-1 treatment. Given the morbidity and mortality associated with solid organ transplant rejection and DKA, clinicians caring for patients receiving these state-of-the-art therapies need to be aware of the potential adverse events.

Improved Postprandial Glucose with Inhaled Technosphere Insulin Compared with Insulin Aspart in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes on Multiple Daily Injections: The STAT Study

BACKGROUND

The majority of therapies have generally targeted fasting glucose control, and current mealtime insulin therapies have longer time action profiles than that of endogenously secreted insulin. The primary purpose of this study was to assess both glucose time-in-range (TIR: 70-180 mg/dL) and postprandial glucose excursions (PPGE) in 1-4 h using a real-time continuous glucose monitor (CGM) with Technosphere insulin (TI) versus insulin aspart in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) on multiple daily injections (MDI).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This pilot, investigator-led, collaborative, open-label, multicenter, clinical research trial enrolled 60 patients with T1DM with HbA1c levels ≥6.5% and ≤10%. Individuals were randomized to treatment with titrated TI (n = 26) or titrated insulin aspart (n = 34), stratified by baseline HbA1c levels (≤8% or >8%). All were required to wear a real-time CGM throughout the trial. All patients in the TI group were advised to take supplemental inhalations at 1 and 2 h after meals if indicated based on postprandial glucose (PPG) values. The coprimary outcomes were assessed both in the full intent-to-treat population and in those individuals randomized to TI who were compliant with supplemental doses ≥90% of the time (n = 15). The CGM data were analyzed using linear regression models.

RESULTS

Overall, those treated with TI versus aspart achieved comparable TIR, but less time spent in hypoglycemia (<60 and <50 mg/dL, both P < 0.05). In the TI-compliant group (n = 15), TIR was significantly greater (62.5% ± 2.6% vs. 53.8% ± 1.7%, P = 0.009) and time in hyperglycemia >180 mg/dL was lower (34.2% ± 2.7% vs. 41.0% ± 1.7%, P = 0.045) as compared with the aspart group. PPG was also significantly lower in the TI cohort at 60 and 90 min postmeal, and PPGE were lower in the TI-compliant group as compared with the aspart group over 1-4-h postmeal (P < 0.05). In addition, there was weight gain in the aspart group compared with weight loss in the TI group (P = 0.006) despite higher prandial TI insulin dose.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that using TI appropriately at mealtimes with supplemental dosing improves prandial glucose (TIR and 1-4 h) control without any increase in time in hypoglycemia or weight gain in patients with T1DM on MDI. The study results support a larger study using a treat-to-target design to confirm these findings. Clinical trial reg. no. NCT03143816, clinicaltrials.gov .

SGLT inhibition: a possible adjunctive treatment for type 1 diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To identify and evaluate the recent trials of sodium-glucose cotransporter 1 and 2 (SGLT1 and SGLT2, respectively) inhibitor use in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). SGLT-2 inhibitors have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are effectively used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, many studies (phase I-III) have validated their effects beyond improving glycemic control and have shown potential adjunctive use in adult patients with T1D treated with insulin therapy alone.

RECENT FINDINGS

A review of the literature showed that there is a potential adjunctive role for the SGLT inhibitors with insulin in T1D for improving glycemic control. The inTandem3 (A phase III study to evaluate the safety of sotagliflozin in patients with type 1 diabetes who have inadequate glycemic control with insulin therapy alone) and the DEPICT-1 (Dapagliflozin evaluation in patients with inadequately controlled type 1 diabetes) trials demonstrated significant benefits in adult patients with T1D. The SGLT inhibitors may become the first oral medication to be approved for adjunctive use in T1D.

SUMMARY

The risk of diabetic ketoacidosis still remains a concern, but considering additional benefits beyond glucose control, with proper counseling and education, these medications may allow a larger number of patients to achieve target glucose control without weight gain or increased risk of hypoglycemia.

Over-the-Counter "Adrenal Support" Supplements Contain Thyroid and Steroid-Based Adrenal Hormones

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether dietary supplements that are herbal and/or animal-derived products, marketed for enhancing metabolism or promoting energy, "adrenal fatigue," or "adrenal support," contain thyroid or steroid hormones.

METHODS

Twelve dietary adrenal support supplements were purchased. Pregnenolone, androstenedione, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, cortisol, cortisone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, synthetic glucocorticoids (betamethasone, dexamethasone, fludrocortisone, megestrol acetate, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, prednisone, budesonide, and triamcinolone acetonide) levels were measured twice in samples in a blinded fashion. This study was conducted between February 1, 2016, and November 1, 2016.

RESULTS

Among steroids, pregnenolone was the most common hormone in the samples. Budesonide, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, cortisol, and cortisone were the others in order of prevalence. All the supplements revealed a detectable amount of triiodothyronine (T3) (63-394.9 ng/tablet), 42% contained pregnenolone (66.12-205.2 ng/tablet), 25% contained budesonide (119.5-610 ng/tablet), 17% contained androstenedione (1.27-7.25 ng/tablet), 8% contained 17-OH progesterone (30.09 ng/tablet), 8% contained cortisone (79.66 ng/tablet), and 8% contained cortisol (138.5 ng/tablet). Per label recommended doses daily exposure was up to 1322 ng for T3, 1231.2 ng for pregnenolone, 1276.4 ng for budesonide, 29 ng for androstenedione, 60.18 ng for 17-OH progesterone, 277 ng for cortisol, and 159.32 ng for cortisone.

CONCLUSION

All the supplements studied contained a small amount of thyroid hormone and most contained at least 1 steroid hormone. This is the first study that measured thyroid and steroid hormones in over-the-counter dietary "adrenal support" supplements in the United States. These results may highlight potential risks of hidden ingredients in unregulated supplements.

Toxoplasma Infection in an Immunocompetent Host: Possible Risk of Living with Multiple Cats

A 32-year-old man presented with agitation, headache, and confusion. He was immunocompetent and had been living with multiple cats for many years. His vital signs were stable. He was afebrile. Multiple blood tests did not show any serious problem. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed multiple ring-enhancing white matter lesions. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis did not show any signs of infection. Based on a presumptive diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, high-dose corticosteroid treatment was started. However, this caused worsening of the symptoms and increased the size of the lesions. Corticosteroids were discontinued and biopsy was done. Biopsy of the lesions confirmed Toxoplasma gondii infection, and treatment with pyrimethamine/sulfadiazine was initiated. Treatment decreased the size of the lesions dramatically.

Toxoplasma infection of the central nervous system (CNS) is rare in immunocompetent hosts. Living with multiple cats is believed to be a risk factor for Toxoplasma infection in immunocompetent hosts.

Previously unreported abnormalities in Wolfram Syndrome Type 2

Wolfram syndrome (WFS) is a rare autosomal recessive disease with non-autoimmune childhood onset insulin dependent diabetes and optic atrophy. WFS type 2 (WFS2) differs from WFS type 1 (WFS1) with upper intestinal ulcers, bleeding tendency and the lack ofdiabetes insipidus. Li-fespan is short due to related comorbidities. Only a few familieshave been reported with this syndrome with the CISD2 mutation. Here we report two siblings with a clinical diagnosis of WFS2, previously misdiagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus and diabetic retinopathy-related blindness. We report possible additional clinical and laboratory findings that have not been pre-viously reported, such as asymptomatic hypoparathyroidism, osteomalacia, growth hormone (GH) deficiency and hepatomegaly. Even though not a requirement for the diagnosis of WFS2 currently, our case series confirm hypogonadotropic hypogonadism to be also a feature of this syndrome, as reported before.

How far you can trust c-ANCA?

The suspicion of a serious condition arises if a smoker is coughing and losing weight constantly. Serology and imaging are great options for diagnosis, but what is their specificity? A 62-year-old man presented with persistent cough, weight loss and hypoxia. A chest x-ray revealed bilateral interstitial infiltrates. Treatment with several antibiotics failed. Serological results showed antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (c-ANCA) positivity. However, biopsy result indicated cryptogenic organising pneumonia. This case report discloses the differential diagnosis of c-ANCA positive interstitial lung disease in detail.

Glargine safety, diabetes and cancer

INTRODUCTION

In 2009, several epidemiological studies suggested a higher frequency of malignancy in insulin glargine -treated patients. A number of follow-up epidemiological population studies as well as two randomized, controlled clinical studies, one a 5000-patient retinopathy study and the other a 12,000-patient cardiovascular outcomes trial (ORIGIN), found no higher frequency of malignancy in glargine-treated patients.

AREAS COVERED

We reviewed the existing literature as well as U.S. FDA records to investigate the association of cancer, diabetes, and insulin. There is a 20 - 40% higher incidence of malignancy in type 2 diabetes patients. Certain cancers are more common, including hepatocellular and pancreatic carcinoma, colorectal cancer, renal cancer, and breast and endometrial cancer, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. There are numerous inter-related factors which may promote both diabetes and malignancy, including dietary patterns, obesity, insulin resistance, and alcoholism. Patients who receive insulin treatment are typically older and "sicker" than those who receive oral agents.

EXPERT OPINION

It is very difficult to prove causal associations between diabetes and cancer due to the host of confounding factors. The hypothesis that hyperinsulinemia and IGF-1 receptor activation promote cancer is strong, but confounded by the association of hyperinsulinemia with obesity, which separately promotes malignancy. Although statistical techniques to adjust for confounding variables can improve epidemiological comparisons, the lesson of the glargine cancer controversy is that controlled clinical trials are the only means to definitely prove hypotheses.

Platelet-derived growth factor CC-mediated neuroprotection against HIV Tat involves TRPC-mediated inactivation of GSK 3beta

Platelet-derived growth factor-CC (PDGF-CC) is the third member of the PDGF family, and has been implicated both in embryogenesis and development of the CNS. The biological function of this isoform however, remains largely unexplored in the context of HIV-associated dementia (HAD). In the present study, we demonstrate that exposure of human neuroblastoma cells SH-SY5Y to HIV transactivator protein Tat resulted in decreased intrinsic expression of PDGF-CC as evidenced by RT-PCR and western blot assays. Reciprocally, pretreatment of SH-SY5Y cells with PDGF-CC abrogated Tat-mediated neurotoxicity by mitigating apoptosis and neurite & MAP-2 loss. Using pharmacological and loss of function approaches we identified the role of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling in PDGF-CC-mediated neuroprotection. We report herein a novel role about the involvement of transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channel 1 in modulation of calcium transients in PDGF-CC-mediated neuroprotection. Furthermore we also demonstrated PDGF-CC-mediated inactivation of the downstream mediator - glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) evidenced by its phosphorylation at Ser-9. This was further validated by gain and loss of function studies using cells transfected with either the wild type or mutant GSK3β constructs. Intriguingly, pretreatment of cells with either the PI3K inhibitor or TRPC blocker resulted in failure of PDGF-CC to inactivate GSK3β, thereby suggesting the intersection of PI3K and TRPC signaling at GSK3β. Taken together our findings lead to the suggestion that PDGF-CC could be developed as a therapeutic target to reverse Tat-mediated neurotoxicity with implications for HAD.