Effects, Safety, and Treatment Experience of Advanced Hybrid Closed-Loop Systems in Clinical Practice Among Adults Living With Type 1 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

There are few studies providing a more comprehensive picture of advanced hybrid closed-loop (AHCL) systems in clinical practice. The aim was to evaluate the effects of the AHCL systems, Tandem® t: slim X2™ with Control IQ™, and MiniMed™ 780G, on glucose control, safety, treatment satisfaction, and practical barriers for individuals with type 1 diabetes.

METHOD

One hundred forty-two randomly selected adults with type 1 diabetes at six diabetes outpatient clinics in Sweden at any time treated with either the Tandem Control IQ (TCIQ) or the MiniMed 780G system were included. Glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and glucose metrics were evaluated. Treatment satisfaction and practical barriers were examined via questionnaires.

RESULTS

Mean age was 42 years, median follow-up was 1.7 years, 58 (40.8%) were females, 65% used the TCIQ system. Glycated hemoglobin A1c was reduced by 0.6% (6.8 mmol/mol; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.5-0.8% [5.3-8.2 mmol/mol]; P < .001), from 7.3% to 6.7% (57-50 mmol/mol). Time in range (TIR) increased with 14.5% from 57.0% to 71.5% (95% CI = 12.2%-16.9%; P < .001). Time below range (TBR) (<70 mg/dL, <3.9 mmol/L) decreased from 3.8% to 1.6% (P < .001). The standard deviation of glucose values was reduced from 61 to 51 mg/dL (3.4-2.9 mmol/L, P < .001) and the coefficient of variation from 35% to 33% (P < .001). Treatment satisfaction increased, score 14.8 on the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (DTSQ) (change version ranging from -18 to 18, P < .001). Four severe hypoglycemia events were detected and no cases of ketoacidosis. Skin problems were experienced by 32.4% of the study population.

CONCLUSIONS

Advanced hybrid closed-loop systems improve glucose control with a reasonable safety profile and high treatment satisfaction. Skin problems are common adverse events.

The effect of carbohydrate intake on glycaemic control in individuals with type 1 diabetes: a randomised, open-label, crossover trial

Background

Few studies have examined the effects of lower carbohydrate diets on glucose control in persons with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The objective of the study was to investigate whether a moderate carbohydrate diet improves glucose control in persons with T1D.

Methods

A randomised, multicentre, open-label, crossover trial over 12 weeks. There were 69 individuals assessed for eligibility, 54 adults with T1D and HbA1c ≥ 58 mmol/mol (7.5%) were randomised. Interventions were moderate carbohydrate diet versus traditional diet (30 vs 50% of total energy from carbohydrates) over four weeks, with a four-week wash-out period between treatments. Masked continuous glucose monitoring was used to evaluate effects on glucose control. The primary endpoint was the difference in mean glucose levels between the last 14 days of each diet phase.

Findings

50 individuals were included in the full analysis set with a mean baseline HbA1c of 69 mmol/mol (8.4%), BMI 29 kg/m2, age of 48 years, and 50% were female. The difference in mean glucose levels between moderate carbohydrate and traditional diet was -0.6 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.9 to -0.3, p < 0.001. Time in range increased during moderate carbohydrate diet by 4.7% (68 min/24 h) (95% CI 1.3 to 8.0), p = 0.008. Time above range (>10 mmol/L) decreased by 5.9% (85 min/24 h), 95% CI -9.6 to -2.2, p = 0.003. There were no significant differences in the standard deviation of glucose levels (95% CI -0.3 to 0.0 mmol/L, p = 0.15) or hypoglycaemia in the range <3.9 mmol/L (95% CI -0.4 to 2.9%, p = 0.13) and <3.0 mmol/L (95% CI -0.4 to 1.6%, p = 0.26). Four participants withdrew, none because of adverse events. There were no serious adverse events including severe hypoglycaemia and ketoacidosis. Mean ketone levels were 0.17 (SD 0.14) mmol/L during traditional and 0.18 (SD 0.13) mmol/L during moderate carbohydrate diet (p = 0.02).

Interpretation

A moderate carbohydrate diet is associated with decreases in mean glucose levels and time above range and increases in time in range without increased risk of hypoglycaemia or ketoacidosis compared with a traditional diet in individuals with T1D.

Funding

The Healthcare Board, Region Västra Götaland, The Dr P Håkansson Foundation and the Swedish state under the agreement between the Swedish government and the county councils, the ALF-agreement [ALFGBG-966173].

Evaluation of Effects of Continuous Glucose Monitoring on Physical Activity Habits and Blood Lipid Levels in Persons With Type 1 Diabetes Managed With Multiple Daily Insulin Injections: An Analysis Based on the GOLD Randomized Trial (GOLD 8)

BACKGROUND

People with type 1 diabetes generally view it easier to exercise when having continuous information of the glucose levels. We evaluated whether patients with type 1 diabetes managed with multiple daily insulin injections (MDI) exercised more after initiating continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and whether the improved glycemic control and well-being associated with CGM translates into improved blood lipids and markers of inflammation.

METHOD

The GOLD trial was a randomized cross-over trial over 16 months where patients used either CGM or capillary self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) over six months, with a four-month wash-out period between the two treatment periods. We compared grade of physical activity, blood lipids, apolipoproteins, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels during CGM and SMBG.

RESULTS

There were 116 patients with information of physical activity estimated by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) during both CGM and SMBG. No changes were found during CGM or SMBG, IPAQ scores 3305 versus 3878 (P = .16). In 136 participants with information of blood lipid levels with no change in lipid-lowering medication during the two treatment periods, HbA1c differed by 4.2 mmol/mol (NGSP 0.39%) between SMBG and CGM treatment (P < .001). No significant changes existed in low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, total cholesterol, apolipoprotein A1, apolipoprotein B1, or hsCRP, during CGM and SMBG.

CONCLUSION

Although many patients experience it easier to perform physical activity when monitoring glucose levels with CGM, it does not influence the amount of physical activity in persons with type 1 diabetes. Blood lipids, apolipoprotein, and hsCRP levels were similar during CGM and SMBG.

Impact of fetal growth restriction on pregnancy outcome in women undergoing expectant management for preterm pre-eclampsia

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether coexisting fetal growth restriction (FGR) influences pregnancy latency among women with preterm pre-eclampsia undergoing expectant management. Secondary outcomes assessed were indication for delivery, mode of delivery and rate of serious adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes.

METHODS

We conducted a secondary analysis of the Pre-eclampsia Intervention (PIE) and the Pre-eclampsia Intervention 2 (PI2) trial data. These randomized controlled trials evaluated whether esomeprazole and metformin could prolong gestation of women diagnosed with pre-eclampsia between 26 and 32 weeks of gestation undergoing expectant management. Delivery indications were deteriorating maternal or fetal status, or reaching 34 weeks' gestation. FGR (defined by Delphi consensus) at the time of pre-eclampsia diagnosis was examined as a predictor of outcome. Only placebo data from PI2 were included, as the trial showed that metformin use was associated with prolonged gestation. All outcome data were collected prospectively from diagnosis of pre-eclampsia to 6 weeks after the expected due date.

RESULTS

Of the 202 women included, 92 (45.5%) had FGR at the time of pre-eclampsia diagnosis. Median pregnancy latency was 6.8 days in the FGR group and 15.3 days in the control group (difference 8.5 days; adjusted 0.49-fold change (95% CI, 0.33-0.74); P < 0.001). FGR pregnancies were less likely to reach 34 weeks' gestation (12.0% vs 30.9%; adjusted relative risk (aRR), 0.44 (95% CI, 0.23-0.83)) and more likely to be delivered for suspected fetal compromise (64.1% vs 36.4%; aRR, 1.84 (95% CI, 1.36-2.47)). More women with FGR underwent a prelabor emergency Cesarean section (66.3% vs 43.6%; aRR, 1.56 (95% CI, 1.20-2.03)) and were less likely to have a successful induction of labor (4.3% vs 14.5%; aRR, 0.32 (95% CI, 0.10-1.00)), compared to those without FGR. The rate of maternal complications did not differ significantly between the two groups. FGR was associated with a higher rate of infant death (14.1% vs 4.5%; aRR, 3.26 (95% CI, 1.08-9.81)) and need for intubation and mechanical ventilation (15.2% vs 5.5%; aRR, 2.97 (95% CI, 1.11-7.90)).

CONCLUSION

FGR is commonly present in women with early preterm pre-eclampsia and outcome is poorer. FGR is associated with shorter pregnancy latency, more emergency Cesarean deliveries, fewer successful inductions and increased rates of neonatal morbidity and mortality. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Treatment Satisfaction and Well-Being With CGM in People With T1D: An Analysis Based on the GOLD Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

The GOLD trial demonstrated that continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) managed with multiple daily insulin injections (MDI) improved not only glucose control but also overall well-being and treatment satisfaction. This analysis investigated which factors contributed to improved well-being and treatment satisfaction with CGM.

METHODS

The GOLD trial was a randomized crossover trial comparing CGM versus self-monitored blood glucose (SMBG) over 16 months. Endpoints included well-being measured by the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5) and treatment satisfaction by the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (DTSQ) as well as glucose metrics. Multivariable R2-decomposition was used to understand which variables contributed most to treatment satisfaction.

RESULTS

A total of 139 participants were included. Multivariable analyses revealed that increased convenience and flexibility contributed to 60% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 50%-69%) of the improvement in treatment satisfaction (Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire change version [DTSQc]) observed with CGM, whereas perceived effects on hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia only contributed to 6% (95% CI = 2%-11%) of improvements. Significant improvements in well-being (WHO-5) by CGM were observed for the following: feeling cheerful (P = .025), calm and relaxed (P = .024), being active (P = .046), and waking up fresh and rested (P = .044). HbA1c reductions and increased time in range (TIR) were associated with increased treatment satisfaction, whereas glycemic variability was not. HbA1c reduction showed also an association with increased well-being and increased TIR with less diabetes-related distress.

CONCLUSIONS

While CGM improves glucose control in people with T1D on MDI, increased convenience and flexibility through CGM is of even greater importance for treatment satisfaction and patient well-being. These CGM-mediated effects should be taken into account when considering CGM initiation.

Chest X-rays are less sensitive than multiple breath washout examinations when it comes to detecting early cystic fibrosis lung disease

AIM

Annual chest X-ray is recommended as routine surveillance to track cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical utility of chest X-rays to track CF lung disease.

METHODS

Children at Gothenburg's CF centre who underwent chest X-rays, multiple breath washouts and chest computed tomography examinations between 1996 and 2016 were included in the study. Chest X-rays were interpreted with Northern Score (NS). We compared NS to lung clearance index (LCI) and structural lung damage measured by computed tomography using a logistic regression model.

RESULTS

A total of 75 children were included over a median period of 13 years (range: 3.0-18.0 years). The proportion of children with abnormal NS was significantly lower than the proportion of abnormal LCI up to the age of 4 years (p < 0.05). A normal NS and a normal LCI at age 6 years were associated with a median (10-90th percentile) total airway disease of 1.8% (0.4-4.7%) and bronchiectasis of 0.2% (0.0-1.5%).

CONCLUSION

Chest X-rays were less sensitive than multiple breath washout examinations to detect early CF lung disease. The combined results from both methods can be used as an indicator to perform chest computed tomography less frequently.

Cerebral biomarkers in neurologic complications of preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

There is no tool to accurately predict who is at risk of developing neurologic complications of preeclampsia, and there is no objective method to determine disease severity.

OBJECTIVE

We assessed whether plasma concentrations of the cerebral biomarkers neurofilament light, tau, and glial fibrillary acidic protein could reflect disease severity in several phenotypes of preeclampsia. Furthermore, we compared the cerebral biomarkers with the angiogenic biomarkers soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1, placental growth factor, and soluble endoglin.

STUDY DESIGN

In this observational study, we included women from the South African Preeclampsia Obstetric Adverse Events biobank. Plasma samples taken at diagnosis (preeclampsia cases) or admission for delivery (normotensive controls) were analyzed for concentrations of neurofilament light, tau, glial fibrillary acidic protein, placental growth factor, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1, and soluble endoglin. The cerebrospinal fluid concentrations of inflammatory markers and albumin were analyzed in a subgroup of 15 women. Analyses were adjusted for gestational age, time from seizures and delivery to sampling, maternal age, and parity.

RESULTS

Compared with 28 women with normotensive pregnancies, 146 women with preeclampsia demonstrated 2.18-fold higher plasma concentrations of neurofilament light (95% confidence interval, 1.64-2.88), 2.17-fold higher tau (95% confidence interval, 1.49-3.16), and 2.77-fold higher glial fibrillary acidic protein (95% confidence interval, 2.06-3.72). Overall, 72 women with neurologic complications (eclampsia, cortical blindness, and stroke) demonstrated increased plasma concentrations of tau (2.99-fold higher; 95% confidence interval, 1.92-4.65) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (3.22-fold higher; 95% confidence interval, 2.06-5.02) compared with women with preeclampsia without pulmonary edema; hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count; or neurologic complications (n=31). Moreover, angiogenic markers were higher, but to a lesser extent. Women with hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count (n=20) demonstrated increased plasma concentrations of neurofilament light (1.64-fold higher; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-2.55), tau (4.44-fold higher; 95% confidence interval, 1.85-10.66), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (1.82-fold higher; 95% confidence interval, 1.32-2.50) compared with women with preeclampsia without pulmonary edema; hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count; or neurologic complications. There was no difference shown in the angiogenic biomarkers. There was no difference between 23 women with preeclampsia complicated by pulmonary edema and women with preeclampsia without pulmonary edema; hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count; or neurologic complications for any of the biomarkers. Plasma concentrations of tau and glial fibrillary acidic protein were increased in women with several neurologic complications compared with women with eclampsia only.

CONCLUSION

Plasma neurofilament light, glial fibrillary acidic, and tau were candidate biomarkers for the diagnosis and possibly prediction of cerebral complications of preeclampsia.

Effect of liraglutide on markers of insulin production in persons with type 2 diabetes treated with multiple daily insulin injections

In this post-hoc analysis of data from a randomised clinical trial, we compared the effect of liraglutide to placebo on markers of insulin secretion in persons with type 2 diabetes treated with multiple daily insulin injections. Liraglutide increased insulin secretion, measured by C-peptide, by 19% after 24 weeks of treatment. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: EudraCT 2012-001941-42.

Effects of seawater scrubbing on a microplanktonic community during a summer-bloom in the Baltic Sea

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has gradually applied stricter regulations on the maximum sulphur content permitted in marine fuels and from January 1, 2020, the global fuel sulphur limit was reduced from 3.5% to 0.5%. An attractive option for shipowners is to install exhaust gas cleaning systems, also known as scrubbers, and continue to use high sulphur fuel oil. In the scrubber, the exhausts are led through a fine spray of water, in which sulphur oxides are easily dissolved. The process results in large volumes of acidic discharge water, but while regulations are focused on sulphur oxides removal and acidification, other pollutants e.g. polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, metals and nitrogen oxides can be transferred from the exhausts to the washwater and discharged to the marine environment. The aim of the current study was to investigate how different treatments of scrubber discharge water (1, 3 and 10%) affect a natural Baltic Sea summer microplanktonic community. To resolve potential contribution of acidification from the total effect of the scrubber discharge water, "pH controls" were included where the pH of natural sea water was reduced to match the scrubber treatments. Biological effects (e.g. microplankton species composition, biovolume and primary productivity) and chemical parameters (e.g. pH and alkalinity) were monitored and analysed during 14 days of exposure. Significant effects were observed in the 3% scrubber treatment, with more than 20% increase in total biovolume of microplankton compared to the control group, and an even greater effect in the 10% scrubber treatment. Group-specific impacts were recorded where diatoms, flagellates incertae sedis, chlorophytes and ciliates increased in biovolume with increasing concentrations of scrubber water while no effect was recorded for cyanobacteria. In contrast, these effects was not observed in the "pH controls", a suggestion that other parameters/stressors in the scrubber water were responsible for the observed effects.

Historical HbA1c Values May Explain the Type 2 Diabetes Legacy Effect: UKPDS 88

OBJECTIVE

Type 2 diabetes all-cause mortality (ACM) and myocardial infarction (MI) glycemic legacy effects have not been explained. We examined their relationships with prior individual HbA1c values and explored the potential impact of instituting earlier, compared with delayed, glucose-lowering therapy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Twenty-year ACM and MI hazard functions were estimated from diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in 3,802 UK Prospective Diabetes Study participants. Impact of HbA1c values over time was analyzed by weighting them according to their influence on downstream ACM and MI risks.

RESULTS

Hazard ratios for a one percentage unit higher HbA1c for ACM were 1.08 (95% CI 1.07-1.09), 1.18 (1.15-1.21), and 1.36 (1.30-1.42) at 5, 10, and 20 years, respectively, and for MI was 1.13 (1.11-1.15) at 5 years, increasing to 1.31 (1.25-1.36) at 20 years. Imposing a one percentage unit lower HbA1c from diagnosis generated an 18.8% (95% CI 21.1-16.0) ACM risk reduction 10-15 years later, whereas delaying this reduction until 10 years after diagnosis showed a sevenfold lower 2.7% (3.1-2.3) risk reduction. Corresponding MI risk reductions were 19.7% (22.4-16.5) when lowering HbA1c at diagnosis, and threefold lower 6.5% (7.4-5.3%) when imposed 10 years later.

CONCLUSIONS

The glycemic legacy effects seen in type 2 diabetes are explained largely by historical HbA1c values having a greater impact than recent values on clinical outcomes. Early detection of diabetes and intensive glucose control from the time of diagnosis is essential to maximize reduction of the long-term risk of glycemic complications.

Variables associated with insulin production in persons with type 2 diabetes treated with multiple daily insulin injections

From the MDI-liraglutide study, we evaluated variables associated with endogenous insulin production in persons with multiple daily insulin injections-treated type 2 diabetes by relating C-peptide, proinsulin and proinsulin/C-peptide ratio at baseline to baseline variables. Lower insulin production was related to longer diabetes duration, shorter abdominal sagittal diameter and more glycaemic variability.

Methodological approach for measuring the effects of organisational-level interventions on employee withdrawal behaviour

Background

Theoretical frameworks have recommended organisational-level interventions to decrease employee withdrawal behaviours such as sickness absence and employee turnover. However, evaluation of such interventions has produced inconclusive results. The aim of this study was to investigate if mixed-effects models in combination with time series analysis, process evaluation, and reference group comparisons could be used for evaluating the effects of an organisational-level intervention on employee withdrawal behaviour.

Methods

Monthly data on employee withdrawal behaviours (sickness absence, employee turnover, employment rate, and unpaid leave) were collected for 58 consecutive months (before and after the intervention) for intervention and reference groups. In total, eight intervention groups with a total of 1600 employees participated in the intervention. Process evaluation data were collected by process facilitators from the intervention team. Overall intervention effects were assessed using mixed-effects models with an AR (1) covariance structure for the repeated measurements and time as fixed effect. Intervention effects for each intervention group were assessed using time series analysis. Finally, results were compared descriptively with data from process evaluation and reference groups to disentangle the organisational-level intervention effects from other simultaneous effects.

Results

All measures of employee withdrawal behaviour indicated statistically significant time trends and seasonal variability. Applying these methods to an organisational-level intervention resulted in an overall decrease in employee withdrawal behaviour. Meanwhile, the intervention effects varied greatly between intervention groups, highlighting the need to perform analyses at multiple levels to obtain a full understanding. Results also indicated that possible delayed intervention effects must be considered and that data from process evaluation and reference group comparisons were vital for disentangling the intervention effects from other simultaneous effects.

Conclusions

When analysing the effects of an intervention, time trends, seasonal variability, and other changes in the work environment must be considered. The use of mixed-effects models in combination with time series analysis, process evaluation, and reference groups is a promising way to improve the evaluation of organisational-level interventions that can easily be adopted by others.

Study for Improving Maternal Pregnancy And Child ouTcomes (IMPACT): a study protocol for a Swedish prospective multicentre cohort study

INTRODUCTION

First-trimester pregnancy risk evaluation facilitates individualised antenatal care, as well as application of preventive strategies for pre-eclampsia or birth of a small for gestational age infant. A range of early intervention strategies in pregnancies identified as high risk at the end of the first trimester has been shown to decrease the risk of preterm pre-eclampsia (<37 gestational weeks). The aim of this project is to create the Improving Maternal Pregnancy And Child ouTcomes (IMPACT) database; a nationwide database with individual patient data, including predictors recorded at the end of the first trimester and later pregnancy outcomes, to identify women at high risk of pre-eclampsia. A second aim is to link the IMPACT database to a biobank with first-trimester blood samples.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is a Swedish prospective multicentre cohort study. Women are included between the 11th and 14th weeks of pregnancy. At inclusion, pre-identified predictors are retrieved by interviews and medical examinations. Blood samples are collected and stored in a biobank. Additional predictors and pregnancy outcomes are retrieved from the Swedish Pregnancy Register. Inclusion in the study began in November 2018 with a targeted sample size of 45 000 pregnancies by end of 2021. Creation of a new risk prediction model will then be developed, validated and implemented. The database and biobank will enable future research on prediction of various pregnancy-related complications.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Confidentiality aspects such as data encryption and storage comply with the General Data Protection Regulation and with ethical committee requirements. This study has been granted national ethical approval by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority (Uppsala 2018-231) and national biobank approval at Uppsala Biobank (18237 2 2018 231). Results from the current as well as future studies using information from the IMPACT database will be published in peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03831490.

Effect of Liraglutide on Times in Glycaemic Ranges as Assessed by CGM for Type 2 Diabetes Patients Treated With Multiple Daily Insulin Injections

INTRODUCTION

The effects of the GLP-1 analogue liraglutide on time in hypoglycaemia, time in hyperglycaemia, and time in range for type 2 diabetes patients initially treated with multiple daily insulin injections (MDI) were investigated. Variables associated with hypoglycaemia in the current population were also identified.

METHODS

Analyses were based on data from a previously performed double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in which 124 MDI-treated patients with type 2 diabetes were randomized to liraglutide or placebo. Masked continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was performed at baseline and week 24 in 99 participants.

RESULTS

The mean time in hypoglycaemia was similar for participants receiving liraglutide and those receiving placebo after 24 weeks of treatment. Mean time in target was greater in the liraglutide group than in the placebo group: 430 versus 244 min/24 h (p < 0.001) and 960 versus 695 min/24 h (p < 0.001) for the two glycaemic ranges considered, 4-7 mmol/l and 4-10 mmol/l, respectively. Mean time in hyperglycaemia was lower in the liraglutide group: 457 versus 723 min/24 h (p = 0.001) and 134 versus 264 min/24 h (p = 0.023) for the two cutoffs considered, > 10 mmol/l and > 14 mmol/l, respectively. Lower mean glucose level, lower C-peptide, and higher glucose variability were associated with an increased risk of hypoglycaemia in both treatment groups. Higher proinsulin level was associated with a lower risk of hypoglycaemia in the liraglutide group.

CONCLUSION

For type 2 diabetes patients initially treated with MDI, introducing liraglutide had a beneficial effect on glucose profiles estimated by masked CGM. Mean glucose level, glycaemic variability, C-peptide, and proinsulin level influenced the risk of hypoglycaemia in this population.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, number (EudraCT nr: 2012-001941-42).

FUNDING

Novo Nordisk funded this study. The Diabetes Research Unit, NU-Hospital Group funded the journal's Rapid Service Fee.

Predicting verbal memory decline following temporal lobe resection for epilepsy

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to develop a prediction model for verbal memory decline after temporal lobe resection (TLR) for epilepsy. The model will be used in the preoperative counselling of patients to give individualized information about risk for verbal memory decline.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A sample of 110 consecutive patients who underwent TLR for epilepsy at Sahlgrenska University Hospital between 1987 and 2011 constituted the basis for the prediction model. They had all gone through a formal neuropsychological assessment before surgery and 2 years after. Penalized regression and 20 × 10-fold cross-validation were used in order to build a reliable model for predicting individual risks.

RESULTS

The final model included four predictors: side of surgery; inclusion or not of the hippocampus in the resection; preoperative verbal memory function; and presence/absence of focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizures (TCS) the last year prior to the presurgical investigation. The impact of a history of TCS is a new finding which we interpret as a sign of a more widespread network disease which influences neuropsychological function and the cognitive reserve. The model correctly identified 82% of patients with post-operative decline in verbal memory, and the overall accuracy was 70%-85% depending on choice of risk thresholds.

CONCLUSIONS

The model makes it possible to provide patients with individualized prediction regarding the risk of verbal memory decline following TLR. This will help them make more informed decisions regarding treatment, and it will also enable the epilepsy surgery team to prepare them better for the rehabilitation process.

Effect of liraglutide on anthropometric measurements, sagittal abdominal diameter and adiponectin levels in people with type 2 diabetes treated with multiple daily insulin injections: evaluations from a randomized trial (MDI-liraglutide study 5)

AIM

Use of the glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist liraglutide has been shown to reduce weight. Different types of anthropometric measurements can be used to measure adiposity. This study evaluated the effect of liraglutide on sagittal abdominal diameter, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio and adiponectin levels in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) treated with multiple daily insulin injections (MDI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled MDI-liraglutide trial, 124 individuals with T2D treated with MDI were randomized to either liraglutide or placebo. Basal values of weight, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, sagittal abdominal diameter and adiponectin were compared with measurements at 12 and 24 weeks after randomization.

RESULTS

Baseline-adjusted mean weight loss was 3.8 ± 2.9 kg greater in liraglutide than placebo-treated individuals (p < 0.0001). Waist circumference was reduced by 2.9 ± 4.3 cm and 0.2 ± 3.6 cm in the liraglutide and placebo groups, respectively, after 24 weeks (baseline-adjusted mean difference: 2.6 ± 4.0 cm, p = 0.0005). Corresponding reductions in sagittal abdominal diameter were 1.1 ± 1.7 cm and 0.0 ± 1.8 cm (baseline-adjusted mean difference: 1.1 ± 1.7 cm, p = 0.0008). Hip circumference was reduced in patients randomized to liraglutide (baseline-adjusted mean difference between treatment groups: 2.8 ± 3.8 cm, p = 0.0001), but there was no significant difference between the groups in either waist-to-hip ratio (baseline-adjusted mean difference: 0.0 ± 0.04 cm, p = 0.51) or adiponectin levels (baseline-adjusted mean difference: 0.8 ± 3.3 mg L-1, p = 0.17). Lower HbA1c and mean glucose levels measured by masked continuous glucose monitoring at baseline were associated with greater effects of liraglutide on reductions in waist circumference and sagittal abdominal diameter.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with T2D, adding liraglutide to MDI may reduce abdominal and hip obesity to a similar extent, suggesting an effect on both visceral and subcutaneous fat. Liraglutide had greater effects on reducing abdominal obesity in patients with less pronounced long-term hyperglycaemia but did not affect adiponectin levels.

Searching for neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis at clinical onset: Diagnostic value of biomarkers

BACKGROUND

Neurodegeneration occurs during the early stages of multiple sclerosis. It is an essential, devastating part of the pathophysiology. Tools for measuring the degree of neurodegeneration could improve diagnostics and patient characterization.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the diagnostic value of biomarkers of degeneration in patients with recent clinical onset of suspected multiple sclerosis, and to evaluate these biomarkers for characterizing disease course.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 271 patients with clinical features of suspected multiple sclerosis onset and was the baseline of a prospective study. After diagnostic investigations, the patients were classified into the following disease groups: patients with clinically isolated syndrome (n = 4) or early relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (early RRMS; n = 93); patients with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis with disease durations ≥2 years (established RRMS; n = 39); patients without multiple sclerosis, but showing symptoms (symptomatic controls; n = 89); and patients diagnosed with other diseases (n = 46). In addition, we included healthy controls (n = 51) and patients with progressive multiple sclerosis (n = 23). We analyzed six biomarkers of neurodegeneration: cerebrospinal fluid neurofilament light chain levels; cerebral spinal fluid glial fibrillary acidic protein; cerebral spinal fluid tau; retinal nerve fiber layer thickness; macula volume; and the brain parenchymal fraction.

RESULTS

Except for increased cerebral spinal fluid neurofilament light chain levels, median 670 ng/L (IQR 400-2110), we could not find signs of early degeneration in the early disease group with recent clinical onset. However, the intrathecal immunoglobin G production and cerebral spinal fluid neurofilament light chain levels showed diagnostic value. Moreover, elevated levels of cerebral spinal fluid glial fibrillary acidic protein, thin retinal nerve fiber layers, and low brain parenchymal fractions were associated with progressive disease, but not with the other phenotypes. Thin retinal nerve fiber layers and low brain parenchymal fractions, which indicated neurodegeneration, were associated with longer disease duration.

CONCLUSIONS

In clinically suspected multiple sclerosis, intrathecal immunoglobin G production and neurofilament light chain levels had diagnostic value. Therefore, these biomarkers could be included in diagnostic work-ups for multiple sclerosis. We found that the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer and the brain parenchymal fraction were not different between individuals that were healthy, symptomatic, or newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. This finding suggested that neurodegeneration had not reached a significant magnitude in patients with a recent clinical onset of multiple sclerosis.

Variables associated with HbA1c and weight reductions when adding liraglutide to multiple daily insulin injections in persons with type 2 diabetes (MDI Liraglutide trial 3)

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate variables associated with hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and weight reduction when adding liraglutide to persons with type 2 diabetes treated with multiple daily insulin injections (MDI).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a reanalysis of a previous trial where 124 patients were enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter randomized trial carried out over 24 weeks. Predictors for effect on change in HbA1c and weight were analyzed within the treatment group and with concurrent interaction analyses. Correlation analyses for change in HbA1c and weight from baseline to week 24 were made.

RESULTS

The mean age at baseline was 63.7 years, 64.8% were men, the mean number of insulin injections was 4.4 per day, the mean daily insulin dose was 105 units and the mean HbA1c was 74.5 mmol/mol (9.0%). The mean HbA1c and weight reductions were 12.3 mmol/mol (1.13%; P<0.001) and 3.8 kg (P<0.001) greater in liraglutide than placebo-treated persons. There was no significant predictor for greater effect on HbA1c that existed in all analyses (univariate, multivariate and interaction analyses against controls). For a greater weight reduction when adding liraglutide, a lower HbA1c level at baseline was a predictor (liraglutide group P=0.002, P=0.020 for liraglutide group vs placebo). During follow-up in the liraglutide group, no significant correlation was found between change in weight and change in HbA1c (r=0.09, P=0.46), whereas a correlation existed between weight and insulin dose reduction (r=0.44, P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Weight reduction becomes greater when adding liraglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes treated with MDI who had a lower HbA1c level compared with those with a higher HbA1c level. There was no correlation between reductions in HbA1c and weight when liraglutide was added, that is, different patient groups responded with HbA1c and weight reductions.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

EudraCT nr: 2012-001941-42.

Prevalence of primary aldosteronism among patients with type 2 diabetes

CONTEXT

Diabetes and hypertension coexist in 40%-60% of individuals with type 2 diabetes. The coexistence of these two conditions is associated with increased risk of retinopathy, nephropathy and cardiovascular disease.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence of primary aldosteronism (PA) in a general cohort of persons with type 2 diabetes.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study involving six diabetes outpatient clinics in Sweden.

PATIENTS

were enrolled individuals with type 2 diabetes between February 2008 and December 2013.

MEASUREMENTS

Plasma aldosterone concentrations (PAC pmol/L) and direct renin concentrations (DRC mIU/L) were measured. Patients with increased aldosterone renin ratios (ARR) >65 were further evaluated for PA.

RESULTS

Of 578 consecutively screened patients with type 2 diabetes, 27 were treated with mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA) and potassium-sparing diuretics not further evaluated. Among the remaining 551 patients, 38 had increased ARR, including 22 who were clinically indicated for PA tests and 16 who were not further evaluated due to severe comorbidities and old age. There were five (0.93%) patients with confirmed PA after computerized tomography and adrenal venous sampling. Patients with PA had higher systolic blood pressure (P=.032) and lower potassium levels (P=.027) than those without PA. No significant association was found between plasma aldosterone and diabetic complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of PA in an unselected cohort of patients with type 2 diabetes is relatively low, and measures of plasma aldosterone are not strong risk factors for micro- and macrovascular diabetic complications.

Adherence of self-monitoring of blood glucose in persons with type 1 diabetes in Sweden

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim was to evaluate the extent to which persons with type 1 diabetes perform self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) according to guidelines. Secondary objectives were to investigate predictors for good SMBG adherence, reasons for non-adherence, and association between SMBG frequency and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).

METHODS

This was a survey-based cross-sectional study. Questionnaires were sent out to 600 random patients at five sites. Patients were included if they were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and ≥18 years old and excluded if they were currently using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Analysis of data was performed separately for the three sites where the answer frequency was ≥70%.

RESULTS

In total, 138 of 314 study participants, 43.9% (95% CI 38.5% to 49.4%) performed SMBG ≥4 times per day. For the three clinics where ≥70% of surveyed patients were included in the analysis, results were similar, 41.3% (95% CI 34.7% to 47.8%). Top three reported reasons for not performing more frequent SMBG were lack of time, not remembering, and self-consciousness. Frequency of SMBG was associated with HbA1c levels (p<0.0001). 30% of patients believed that ≤3 SMBG/day was recommended by healthcare providers.

CONCLUSIONS

Less than 50% of patients in Sweden follow guidelines of SMBG ≥4 times per day, despite glucose meters and strips being generally available at no cost. This indicates a need for further support in performing SMBG and increased availability of other tools for glucose monitoring.

Assessing the Accuracy of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Calibrated With Capillary Values Using Capillary or Venous Glucose Levels as a Reference

BACKGROUND

Using the standard venous reference for the evaluation of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems could possibly negatively affect measured CGM accuracy since CGM are generally calibrated with capillary glucose and venous and capillary glucose concentrations differ. We therefore aimed to quantify the effect of using capillary versus venous glucose reference samples on estimated accuracy in capillary calibrated CGM.

METHODS

We evaluated 41 individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) using the Dexcom G4 CGM system over 6 days. Patients calibrated their CGM devices with capillary glucose by means of the HemoCue system. During 2 visits, capillary and venous samples were simultaneously measured by HemoCue and compared to concomitantly obtained CGM readings. The mean absolute relative difference (MARD) was calculated using capillary and venous reference samples.

RESULTS

Venous glucose values were 0.83 mmol/L (15.0 mg/dl) lower than capillary values over all glycemic ranges, P < .0001. Below 4 mmol/l (72 mg/dl), the difference was 1.25 mmol/l (22.5 mg/dl), P = .0001, at 4-10 mmol/l (72-180 mg/dl), 0.67 mmol/l (12.0 mg/dl), P < .0001 and above 10 mmol/l (180 mg/dl), 0.95 mmol/l (17.1 mg/dl), P < .0001. MARD was 11.7% using capillary values as reference compared to 13.7% using venous samples, P = .037. Below 4 mmol/l (72 mg/dl) MARD was 16.6% and 31.8%, P = .048, at 4-10 mmol/l (72-180 mg/dl) 12.1% and 12.6%, P = .32, above 10 mmol/l (180 mg/dl) 8.7% and 9.2%, P = .82.

CONCLUSION

Using capillary glucose concentrations as reference to evaluate the accuracy of CGM calibrated with capillary samples is associated with a lower MARD than using venous glucose as the reference. Capillary glucose concentrations were significantly higher than venous in all glycemic ranges.