The effects of dapagliflozin, metformin or exercise on glycaemic variability in overweight or obese individuals with prediabetes (the PRE-D Trial): a multi-arm, randomised, controlled trial

Impact of acute glycemic variability on short-term outcomes in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: a multicenter population-based study

BACKGROUND

Given the increasing attention to glycemic variability (GV) and its potential implications for cardiovascular outcomes. This study aimed to explore the impact of acute GV on short-term outcomes in Chinese patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

METHODS

This study enrolled 7510 consecutive patients diagnosed with acute STEMI from 274 centers in China. GV was assessed using the coefficient of variation of blood glucose levels. Patients were categorized into three groups according to GV tertiles (GV1, GV2, and GV3). The primary outcome was 30-day all-cause death, and the secondary outcome was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). Cox regression analyses were conducted to determine the independent correlation between GV and the outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 7136 patients with STEMI were included. During 30-days follow-up, there was a significant increase in the incidence of all-cause death and MACEs with higher GV tertiles. The 30-days mortality rates were 7.4% for GV1, 8.7% for GV2 and 9.4% for GV3 (p = 0.004), while the MACEs incidence rates was 11.3%, 13.8% and 15.8% for the GV1, GV2 and GV3 groups respectively (p < 0.001). High GV levels during hospitalization were significantly associated with an increased risk of 30-day all-cause mortality and MACEs. When analyzed as a continuous variable, GV was independently associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 1.679, 95% confidence Interval [CI] 1.005-2.804) and MACEs (HR 2.064, 95% CI 1.386-3.074). Additionally, when analyzed as categorical variables, the GV3 group was found to predict an increased risk of MACEs, irrespective of the presence of diabetes mellitus (DM).

CONCLUSION

Our study findings indicate that a high GV during hospitalization was significantly associated with an increased risk of 30-day all-cause mortality and MACE in Chinese patients with STEMI. Moreover, acute GV emerged as an independent predictor of increased MACEs risk, regardless of DM status.

SGLT2 inhibitors: Beyond glycemic control

Multiple randomized controlled trials have extensively examined the therapeutic effectiveness of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, ushering in a transformative approach to treating individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Notably, emerging reports have drawn attention to the potential positive impacts of SGLT2 inhibitors in nondiabetic patients. In an effort to delve into this phenomenon, a comprehensive systematic literature review spanning PubMed (NLM), Medline (Ovid), and Cochrane Library, covering publications from 2000 to 2024 was undertaken. This systematic review encompassed twenty-six randomized control trials (RCTs) involving 35,317 participants. The findings unveiled a multifaceted role for SGLT2 inhibitors, showcasing their ability to enhance metabolic control and yield cardioprotective effects through a reduction in cardiovascular death (CVD) and hospitalization related to heart failure (HF). Additionally, a renalprotective effect was observed, evidenced by a slowdown in chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression and a decrease in albuminuria. Importantly, these benefits were coupled with an acceptable safety profile. The literature also points to various biological plausibility and underlying mechanistic pathways, offering insights into the association between SGLT2 inhibitors and these positive outcomes in nondiabetic individuals. Current research trends indicate a continual exploration of additional role for SGLT2 inhibitors in. Nevertheless, further research is imperative to fully elucidate the mechanisms and long-term outcomes associated with the nondiabetic use of SGLT2 inhibitors.

Effect of Metformin on Oxidative Stress and Left Ventricular Geometry in Nondiabetic Heart Failure Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction: There is an increasing interest in using metformin in cardiovascular diseases and its potential new roles. Only two randomized controlled trials investigated the effect of metformin in nondiabetic heart failure (HF) patients. However, none of these studies assess the role of metformin in reducing oxidative stress. We hypothesized that metformin might improve oxidative stress and left ventricular remodeling in nondiabetic HF patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Methods and Methods: Seventy HFrEF patients (EF 37% ± 8%; median age 66 years) were randomized to metformin (n = 35) or standard of care (SOC) for HF (n = 35) for 6 months in addition to standard therapy. Outcomes included the difference in the change (Δ) in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde (MDA), both assessed colorimetrically and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) assessed through transthoracic echocardiography. Results: Compared with the SOC, metformin treatment increased TAC [Δ = 0.12 mmol/L, confidence intervals (95% CIs): 0.03-0.21; P = 0.007]. TAC increased significantly only in the metformin group (0.90 ± 0.08 mmol/L at baseline vs. 1.04 ± 0.99 mmol/L at 6 months, P < 0.05). Metformin therapy preserved LVMI (Δ = -23 g/m2, 95% CI: -42.91 to -4.92; P = 0.014) and reduced fasting plasma glucose (Δ = -6.16, 95% CI: -12.31 to -0.02, P = 0.047) compared with the SOC. Results did not change after adjusting for baseline values. Changes in MDA left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and blood pressure were not significantly different between groups. Conclusion: Metformin treatment in HF patients with reduced LVEF improved TAC and prevented the increase in LVMI compared with the SOC. These effects of metformin warrant further research in HF patients without diabetes to explore the potential benefits of metformin. Trial Registration Number: This protocol was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov under the number NCT05177588.

SGLT2 Inhibitors' Cardiovascular Benefits in Individuals Without Diabetes, Heart Failure, and/or Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review

Despite the growing body of evidence regarding the beneficial cardiovascular effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, clinical data in individuals without diabetes, heart failure (HF), and/or chronic kidney disease (CKD) is limited. A systematic review of the literature was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, from database inception until May 4, 2023, to explore new evidence of SGLT2 inhibitors' cardiovascular benefits in individuals without diabetes, HF, and/or CKD. A total of 1156 individuals from 14 studies (13 randomized controlled trials and 1 nonrandomized study) were included. The results showed the benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors on blood pressure, weight, and body mass index in this population with an acceptable safety profile. The current evidence supports the potential role of SGLT2 inhibitors as primary prevention in individuals without diabetes, HF, and/or CKD. This review may shed light on the use of SGLT2 inhibitors in conditions such as stage A HF and metabolic syndrome. The literature trend is going toward uncovering SGLT2 inhibitors' role in stage B HF, different types of myocardial infarction, and cardiac arrhythmias.

Effect of physical activity and different exercise modalities on glycemic control in people with prediabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background

Numerous studies have shown the beneficial effects of exercise on glycemic control in people with prediabetes. However, the most effective exercise modality for improving glycemic control remains unclear. We aimed to assess which exercise training modality is most effective in improving glycemic control in a population with prediabetes.

Methods

We conducted searches in Pubmed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, PEDro, BVS, and the Cochrane Library from inception to June 2022. Included studies reported fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and 2-hour postprandial (2hPP) levels and implemented an exercise program lasting at least 12 weeks in adults with prediabetes. We performed a direct meta-analysis using a random-effects model and a network meta-analysis. Cochran's Q statistic and the inconsistency I2 test were used to assess the heterogenicity between studies.

Results

Twenty trials were included, with 15 trials (comprising 775 participants with prediabetes) combined in the meta-analysis, and 13 in the network meta-analysis. The meta-analysis results did not show a statistically significant reduction in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) after aerobic training (AT) intervention compared to a control group (mean (95%CI) difference = -5.18 (-13.48; 3.12) mg/dL, Z=1.22, p=0.22). However, a difference of -7.25 (-13.79; -0.71) mg/dL, p=0.03, in FPG after interval training (IT) intervention was detected compared to a control group. After resistance training (RT) intervention, FPG was significantly lower -6.71 (-12.65,-0.77) mg/dL, Z=2.21, p=0.03, and HbA1c by -0.13 (-0.55, 0.29), p=0.54, compared to the control group. The impact of RT compared to no intervention on 2hPP was not statistically significant (p=0.26). The network meta-analysis did not show statistical significance. Most of the studies presented an unclear risk of bias, and a low and very low-quality of evidence. According to the GRADE criteria, the strength of the body of evidence was low.

Conclusion

Resistance training and IT had demonstrated benefits on glycemic indices, especially on FPG, in a population with prediabetes. Further studies with larger sample sizes and a more robust methodology that compare different types of exercise modalities, frequencies, and durations, are needed to establish a beneficial exercise intervention.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=370688, identifier CRD42022370688.

The effect of metformin treatment on volumes of free-living physical activity and sedentary behaviour: A post-hoc analysis of the PRE-D trial

Perceived physical exertion is increased when exercise is performed on metformin treatment, but the clinical relevance of this is unknown. In this post hoc analysis of a randomized, controlled trial, we investigated whether metformin treatment was associated with lower levels of free-living physical activity.   Ninety individuals with overweight/obesity (BMI>25 m2/kg) and HbA1c-defined prediabetes (39-47 mmol/mol) were randomized to treatment with dapagliflozin (SGLT2-inhibitor; 10 mg once daily, n=30), metformin (850 mg twice daily, n=30) or no treatment (control, n=30) for 13 weeks in a parallel-group, open-label trial. Before (baseline), during (6 weeks) and immediately after (13 weeks) cessation of treatment, a 6-day assessment of physical activity and sedentary behaviour was performed using accelerometer-based physical activity monitors. Intention-to-treat analyses revealed no within-group changes or differences in change between the groups for any measures of physical activity or sedentary behaviour at neither 6 nor 13 weeks. Short-term metformin treatment does not reduce free-living physical activity level in individuals with overweight/obesity and HbA1c-defined prediabetes.

LEAP2 is associated with cardiometabolic markers but is unchanged by antidiabetic treatment in people with prediabetes

To examine whether fasting plasma liver-expressed antimicrobial peptide 2 (FP-LEAP2) is associated with markers of cardiometabolic disease susceptibility in a cohort with prediabetes and overweight/obesity and whether antidiabetic interventions affect FP-LEAP2 levels. The analysis included 115 individuals with prediabetes [hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) 39-47 mmol/mol, 5.7%-6.4%] and overweight/obesity [body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2] from a randomized controlled trial. Changes in FP-LEAP2 levels were assessed in relation to treatment with dapagliflozin (10 mg once daily), metformin (1,700 mg daily), or interval-based exercise (5 days/wk, 30 min/session) compared with control (habitual lifestyle) after 6 and 13 wk of treatment. FP-LEAP2 levels were positively associated with [standardized beta coefficient (95% CI)]: BMI 0.22 (0.03:0.41), P = 0.027; body weight 0.27 (0.06:0.48), P = 0.013; fat mass 0.2 (0.00:0.4), P = 0.048; lean mass 0.47 (0.13:0.8), P = 0.008; HbA1c 0.35 (0.17:0.53), P < 0.001; fasting plasma glucose (FPG) 0.32 (0.12:0.51), P = 0.001; fasting serum insulin 0.28 (0.09:0.47), P = 0.005; total cholesterol 0.19 (0.01:0.38), P = 0.043; triglycerides 0.31 (0.13:0.5), P < 0.001; and transaminases and fatty liver index (standardized beta coefficients 0.23-0.32), all P < 0.020. FP-LEAP2 levels were inversely associated with insulin sensitivity [-0.22 (-0.41: -0.03), P = 0.022] and kidney function [estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) -0.34 (-0.56: -0.12), P = 0.003]. FP-LEAP2 levels were not associated with fat distribution or body fat percentage, fasting glucagon, postload glucose, β-cell function, or low-density lipoprotein. The interventions were not associated with changes in FP-LEAP2. FP-LEAP2 is associated with body mass, impaired insulin sensitivity, liver-specific enzymes, and kidney function. The findings highlight the importance of studying LEAP2 in obesity, type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. FP-LEAP2 was not affected by metformin, dapaglifloxin, or exercise in this population.NEW & NOTEWORTHY LEAP2, primarily secreted by the liver, increases with greater body mass, insulin resistance, and liver-specific enzymes in individuals with prediabetes and overweight or obesity. Fasting glucose, body mass, and alanine aminotransferase independently predict LEAP2 levels. LEAP2 is inversely linked to impaired kidney function. Elevated LEAP2 levels might indicate an increased metabolic risk, warranting further investigation into its potential involvement in glucose and body weight control.

New-onset diabetes with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors in prediabetes: An updated meta-analysis and possible mechanisms

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

A recent systematic review and meta-analysis studied the effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on new-onset diabetes (NOD) in adults with prediabetes having chronic kidney disease and heart failure. In light of other large randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of SGLT2i published after this meta-analysis that also reported the NOD outcome in adults with prediabetes, it is of interest to update the NOD outcome with SGLT2i.

METHODS

A systemic search in the PubMed and Embase electronic database was made until March 31, 2023, using specific MeSH keywords following PRISMA protocol. Subsequently, we conducted a meta-analysis using the random effects model while applying the inverse variance-weighted averages of pooled logarithmic hazard ratio (HR). Heterogeneity was measured using Higgins I² and Cochrane Q statistics and publication bias was evaluated by applying funnel plots. A sensitivity exclusion analysis was additionally made.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis of five RCTs (N = 6752) found a significant reduction in NOD (HR 0.81; 95% CI, 0.69-0.94; P = 0.005) with SGLT2i in adults with prediabetes without any heterogeneity (I² = 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2i has the potential to reduce NOD in adults with prediabetes. Since no effect on HbA1c reduction was seen in adults with prediabetes in all five RCTs included in this meta-analysis, it is conceivable that reduction in NOD is not related to the masking of blood glucose exerted by SGLT2i. However, only an adequately powered trial of SGLT2i in people with prediabetes with a sufficient wash-out period will confirm these findings.

Predicting the HbA1c level following glucose-lowering interventions in individuals with HbA1c-defined prediabetes: a post-hoc analysis from the randomized controlled PRE-D trial

PURPOSE

To investigate whether the prediction of post-treatment HbA_1c levels can be improved by adding an additional biomarker of the glucose metabolism in addition to baseline HbA_1c.

METHODS

We performed an exploratory analysis based on data from 112 individuals with prediabetes (HbA_1c 39-47 mmol) and overweight/obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²), who completed 13 weeks of glucose-lowering interventions (exercise, dapagliflozin, or metformin) or control (habitual living) in the PRE-D trial. Seven prediction models were tested; one basic model with baseline HbA_1c as the sole glucometabolic marker and six models each containing one additional glucometabolic biomarker in addition to baseline HbA_1c. The additional glucometabolic biomarkers included: 1) plasma fructosamine, 2) fasting plasma glucose, 3) fasting plasma glucose × fasting serum insulin, 4) mean glucose during a 6-day free-living period measured by a continuous glucose monitor 5) mean glucose during an oral glucose tolerance test, and 6) mean plasma glucose × mean serum insulin during the oral glucose tolerance test. The primary outcome was overall goodness of fit (R²) from the internal validation step in bootstrap-based analysis using general linear models.

RESULTS

The prediction models explained 46-50% of the variation (R²) in post-treatment HbA1c with standard deviations of the estimates of ~2 mmol/mol. R² was not statistically significantly different in the models containing an additional glucometabolic biomarker when compared to the basic model.

CONCLUSION

Adding an additional biomarker of the glucose metabolism did not improve the prediction of post-treatment HbA_1c in individuals with HbA_1c-defined prediabetes.

The anti-hypertensive effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors

INTRODUCTION

Hypertension is a well-established risk factor for cardiovascular (CV) events in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), heart failure, obesity, and diabetes. Despite the usual prescribed antihypertensive therapies, many patients fail to achieve the recommended blood pressure (BP) targets.

AREAS COVERED

This review summarizes the clinical BP-lowering data presented in major CV and kidney outcome trials for sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, as well as smaller dedicated BP trials in high-risk individuals with and without diabetes. We have also highlighted potential mechanisms that may contribute to the antihypertensive effects of SGLT2 inhibitors, including natriuresis and hemodynamic changes, a loop diuretic-like effect, and alterations in vascular physiology.

EXPERT OPINION

The antihypertensive properties of SGLT2 inhibitors are generally modest but may be larger in certain patient populations. SGLT2 inhibitors may have an additional role as an adjunctive BP-lowering therapy in patients with hypertension at high risk of CV disease or kidney disease.

Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors and New-onset Type 2 Diabetes in Adults With Prediabetes: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

CONTEXT

The preventive effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors for new-onset diabetes was investigated in secondary analyses of several randomized controlled trials (RCTs). However, the results were inconsistent.

OBJECTIVE

This work aimed to synthesize available evidence and evaluate whether SGLT2 inhibitors are effective in preventing new-onset diabetes.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched through February 11, 2022. Two independent authors screened the search results and extracted summary data from eligible RCTs (including original and post hoc analyses) comparing SGLT2 inhibitors and placebo for the risk of new-onset diabetes among adults with prediabetes. Meta-analysis was conducted using random-effects models to calculate risk ratios and 95% CIs.

RESULTS

We included 4 RCTs with 5655 participants who had prediabetes. Based on the random-effects meta-analysis, SGLT2 inhibitors were significantly associated with a lower risk of new-onset diabetes (relative risk, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.68-0.93). The relative risks of new-onset diabetes in dapagliflozin and empagliflozin were 0.68 (95% CI, 0.52-0.89) and 0.87 (95% CI, 0.72-1.04), respectively (P-for-heterogeneity = .14). The frequency of severe hypoglycemia was not elevated in the SGLT2 inhibitors group compared to the placebo group.

CONCLUSION

In this meta-analysis, SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with a reduced risk of new-onset type 2 diabetes among adults with prediabetes and heart failure or chronic kidney disease. These findings indicate the potential usefulness of SGLT2 inhibitors in preventing diabetes among high-risk populations with prediabetes.

Exercise and Metformin Intervention Prevents Lipotoxicity-Induced Hepatocyte Apoptosis by Alleviating Oxidative and ER Stress and Activating the AMPK/Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway in db/db Mice

Objective

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) commonly coexist and act synergistically to drive adverse clinical outcomes. This study is aimed at investigating the effects of exercise intervention and oral hypoglycaemic drug of metformin (MET) alone or combined on hepatic lipid accumulation. To investigate if oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) are involved in lipotoxicity-induced hepatocyte apoptosis in diabetic mice and whether exercise and/or MET alleviated oxidative stress or ERS-apoptosis by AMPK-Nrf2-HO-1 signaling pathway.

Methods

Forty db/db mice with diabetes (random blood glucose ≥ 250 mg/dL) were randomly allocated into four groups: control (CON), exercise training alone (EX), metformin treatment alone (MET), and exercise combined with metformin (EM) groups. Hematoxylin-eosin and oil red O staining were carried out to observe hepatic lipid accumulation. Immunohistochemical and TUNEL methods were used to detect the protein expression of the binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP) and superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1) and the apoptosis level of hepatocytes. ERS-related gene expression and the AMPK-Nrf2-HO-1 signaling pathway were tested by western blotting.

Results

Our data showed that db/db mice exhibited increased liver lipid accumulation, which induced oxidative and ER stress of the PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 pathway, and hepatocyte apoptosis. MET combined with exercise training significantly alleviated hepatic lipid accumulation by suppressing BiP expression, the central regulator of ER homeostasis, and its downstream PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 pathway, as well as upregulated the AMPK-Nrf2-HO-1 signaling pathway. Moreover, the combination of exercise and MET displayed protective effects on hepatocyte apoptosis by downregulating Bax expression and TUNEL-positive staining, restoring the balance of cleaved-caspase-3 and caspase-3, and improving the antioxidant defense system to prevent oxidative damage in db/db mice.

Conclusion

Compared to MET or exercise intervention alone, the combined exercise and metformin exhibited significant effect on ameliorating hepatic steatosis, inhibiting oxidative and ER stress-induced hepatocyte apoptosis via improving the capacity of the antioxidant defense system and suppression of the PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 pathway. Furthermore, upregulation of AMPK-Nrf2-HO-1 signaling pathway might be a key crosstalk between MET and exercise, which may have additive effects on alleviating hepatic lipid accumulation.

The GDF15-GFRAL pathway is dispensable for the effects of metformin on energy balance

Metformin is a blood-glucose-lowering medication with physiological effects that extend beyond its anti-diabetic indication. Recently, it was reported that metformin lowers body weight via induction of growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), which suppresses food intake by binding to the GDNF family receptor α-like (GFRAL) in the hindbrain. Here, we corroborate that metformin increases circulating GDF15 in mice and humans, but we fail to confirm previous reports that the GDF15-GFRAL pathway is necessary for the weight-lowering effects of metformin. Instead, our studies in wild-type, GDF15 knockout, and GFRAL knockout mice suggest that the GDF15-GFRAL pathway is dispensable for the effects of metformin on energy balance. The data presented here question whether metformin is a sufficiently strong stimulator of GDF15 to drive anorexia and weight loss and emphasize that additional work is needed to untangle the relationship among metformin, GDF15, and energy balance.

The process of health behaviour change following participation in a randomised controlled trial targeting prediabetes: A qualitative study

AIM

To explore how participating in a randomised controlled trial affected motivation, barriers and strategies in the process of health behaviour change among individuals with prediabetes.

METHODS

An extension to the PRE-D trial, a qualitative study investigated the efficacy of glucose-lowering interventions (metformin, dapagliflozin or exercise) compared with a control group among individuals with prediabetes and overweight/obesity. Data were collected through separate focus group interviews with participants using semi-structured interview guides inspired by health behaviour change theories. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis with an inductive-deductive approach.

RESULTS

Four interrelated themes were generated from interviews: (1) 'self-construction of prediabetes', on how participants understood the term 'prediabetes', (2) 'altered health image', on how participants' health perceptions were affected, (3) 'personal strategies for health behaviour change', on different ways to attempt to implement behaviour changes and (4) 'the process of health behaviour change', on how participants progressed and relapsed while trying to change behaviour. Themes relate to the health belief model, self-determination theory, self-efficacy and the trans-theoretical model of change. Participants shared their experiences and thoughts during interviews and inspired each other, which led some participants to develop a new perspective on prediabetes severity and increased their motivation for behaviour change.

CONCLUSIONS

How participants perceived and accepted, rejected or neglected prediabetes appeared to affect their health images and whether they realised a need for behaviour change. Their achievements during interventions, health literacy, self-efficacy and perceived support from their social networks, professionals and technological aids influenced the maintenance of health behaviour changes.

Glycaemic Variability and Hyperglycaemia as Prognostic Markers of Major Cardiovascular Events in Diabetic Patients Hospitalised in Cardiology Intensive Care Unit for Acute Heart Failure

(1) Background: Hyperglycaemia and hypoglycaemia are both emerging risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Nevertheless, the potential effect of glycaemic variability (GV) on mid-term major cardiovascular events (MACE) in diabetic patients presenting with acute heart failure (AHF) remains unclear. This study investigates the prognostic value of GV in diabetic patients presenting with acute heart failure (AHF). (2) Methods: this was an observational study including consecutive patients with diabetes and AHF between January 2015 and November 2016. GV was calculated using standard deviation of glycaemia values during initial hospitalisation in the intensive cardiac care unit. MACE, including recurrent AHF, new-onset myocardial infarction, ischaemic stroke and cardiac death, were recorded. The predictive effects of GV on patient outcomes were analysed with respect to baseline characteristics and cardiac status. (3) Results: In total, 392 patients with diabetes and AHF were enrolled. During follow-up (median (interquartile range) 29 (6−51) months), MACE occurred in 227 patients (57.9%). In total, 92 patients died of cardiac causes (23.5%), 107 were hospitalised for heart failure (27.3%), 19 had new-onset myocardial infarction (4.8%) and 9 (2.3%) had an ischaemic stroke. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that GV > 50 mg/dL (2.70 mmol/L), age > 75 years, reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF < 30%) and female gender were independent predictors of MACE: hazard ratios (HR) of 3.16 (2.25−4.43; p < 0.001), 1.54 (1.14−2.08; p = 0.005), 1.47 (1.06−2.07; p = 0.02) and 1.43 (1.05−1.94; p = 0.03), respectively. (4) Conclusions: among other well-known factors of HF, a GV cut-off value of >50 mg/dL was the strongest independent predictive factor for mid-term MACE in patients with diabetes and AHF.

Effects of dapagliflozin in the progression of atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS

At present, an increasing number of studies are trying to determine whether dapagliflozin has a significant effect on the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but there is no consensus. In addition, the former meta-analyses, relying on only a few previous studies and a minimal number of research indicators, have not been able to draw sufficient conclusions simultaneously. Consequently, we conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of dapagliflozin in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis in patients with T2DM.

METHODS

We searched electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Scopus) and reference lists in relevant papers for articles published in 2011-2021. We selected studies that evaluated the effects of dapagliflozin on the risk factors related to the occurrence or development of atherosclerosis in patients with T2DM. A fixed or random-effect model calculated the weighted average difference of dapagliflozin on efficacy, and the factors affecting heterogeneity were determined by Meta-regression analysis.

RESULTS

Twelve randomized controlled trials (18,758 patients) were incorporated in our meta-analysis. In contrast with placebo, dapagliflozin was associated with a significantly increase in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) [MD = 1.39; 95% CI (0.77, 2.01); P < 0.0001], Δflow-mediated vasodilatation (ΔFMD) [MD = 1.22; 95% CI (0.38, 2.06); P = 0.005] and estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate(eGFR) [MD = 1.94; 95% CI (1.38, 2.51); P < 0.00001]. Furthermore, dapagliflozin had a tremendous advantage in controlling triglycerides (TG) in subgroups whose baseline eGFR < 83 ml/min/1.73m2 [MD = - 10.38; 95% CI (- 13.15, - 7.60); P < 0.00001], systolic blood pressure (SBP) [MD = - 2.82; 95% CI (- 3.22, - 2.42); P < 0.00001], HbA1c, BMI, body weight and waist circumference. However, dapagliflozin has an adverse effect on increasing total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C). Besides, there were no significant changes in other indicators, including adiponectin and C-peptide immunoreactivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Our pooled analysis suggested that dapagliflozin has a terrifically better influence over HDL-C, ΔFMD, and eGFR, and it concurrently had a tremendous advantage in controlling TG, SBP, DBP, HbA1c, BMI, body weight, and waist circumference, but it also harms increasing TC and LDL-C. Furthermore, this study found that the effect of dapagliflozin that decreases plasma levels of TG is only apparent in subgroups of baseline eGFR < 83 ml/min/1.73m2, while the subgroup of baseline eGFR ≥ 83 ml/min/1.73m2 does not. Finally, the above results summarize that dapagliflozin could be a therapeutic option for the progression of atherosclerosis in patients with T2DM. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD42021278939.

Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness of Non-Pharmacological Interventions among Chinese Adults with Prediabetes: A Protocol for Network Meta-Analysis and CHIME-Modeled Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

Patients with prediabetes who are at a high risk of progressing to diabetes are recommended early-stage intervention, according to guidelines. Non-pharmacological interventions are effective and cost-effective for glycemic control compared with medicines. We aim to explore which non-pharmacological interventions have the greatest potential effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and feasibility in community-based diabetes management in China. We will perform a systematic review and network meta-analysis to compare the effectiveness of included non-pharmacological interventions, then use Chinese Hong Kong Integrated Modeling and Evaluation (CHIME) to model the yearly incidence of complications, costs, and health utility for the lifetime. Published studies (only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster RCTs with at least one study arm of any non-pharmacological intervention) will be retrieved and screened using several databases. Primary outcomes included blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and achievement of normoglycemia. Health utilities and cost parameters are to be calculated using a societal perspective and integrated into the modified CHIME model to achieve quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) estimates and lifetime costs. QALYs and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio will then be used to determine effectiveness and cost-effectiveness, respectively. Our study findings can inform improved diabetes management in countries with no intervention programs for these patients.

Dapagliflozin and new-onset type 2 diabetes in patients with chronic kidney disease or heart failure: pooled analysis of the DAPA-CKD and DAPA-HF trials

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease and heart failure are insulin resistant states associated with a high incidence of diabetes. We assessed the effect of dapagliflozin on new-onset type 2 diabetes in a pooled analysis of patient-level data from the DAPA-CKD and DAPA-HF trials.

METHODS

This study is a pooled analysis of individual participant data from two phase 3, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre, clinical trials. Participants with no history of diabetes and HbA_1c less than 6·5% (48 mmol/mol) at baseline were included in this pooled analysis. New-onset type 2 diabetes was a prespecified exploratory endpoint in both DAPA-CKD and DAPA-HF trials and is the focus of this analysis. New-onset type 2 diabetes was identified by serial trial measurements of HbA_1c (two consecutive values ≥6·5% [≥48 mmol/mol]) or following a clinical diagnosis of diabetes between trial visits. Time to new-onset type 2 diabetes was analysed in a Cox proportional Hazards model from random assignment to end of treatment.

FINDINGS

4003 participants (1398 [34·9%] from the DADA-CKD trial and 2605 [65·1%] from the DAPA-HF trial) were included in our analysis: 1995 (49·8%) had received dapagliflozin and 2008 (50·2%) had received placebo. Over a median follow-up of 21·2 months (IQR 16·0 to 25·4), 126 (6·3%) of 2008 patients in the placebo group (event rate 3·9 per 100 patient-years) and 85 (4·3%) of 1995 patients in the dapagliflozin group (event rate 2·6 per 100 patient-years) developed type 2 diabetes (hazard ratio 0·67 [95% CI 0·51 to 0·88]; p=0·0040). There was no heterogeneity between studies (p interaction 0·77) and there was no clear evidence that the effect of dapagliflozin varied in prespecified subgroups including sex, age, glycaemic status, BMI, glomerular filtration rate, systolic blood pressure, and baseline cardiovascular medication use. More than 90% of the participants who developed type 2 diabetes had prediabetes at baseline (HbA_1c 5·7% to 6·4% [39 to 46 mmol/mol]). Mean HbA_1c remained unchanged (placebo-adjusted change in the dapagliflozin group of -0·01% [95% CI -0·03 to 0·01], -0·1 mmol/mol [95% CI -0·3 to 0·1] at 12 months).

INTERPRETATION

Treatment with dapagliflozin reduced the incidence of new-onset type 2 diabetes in participants with chronic kidney disease and HF without a reduction in HbA_1c.

FUNDING

AstraZeneca.

Effect of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors on Weight Reduction in Overweight and Obese Populations without Diabetes: A Systematic Review and a Meta-Analysis

Background

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors for managing obesity in non-diabetic overweight or obese patients.

Methods

For purposes of this study, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched through May 2021. Randomized controlled trials published in English that compared SGLT2 inhibitors with placebo in overweight and obese patients without diabetes were included in the primary analysis. The random effects standardized mean difference ±95% confidence interval (95% CI) was calculated as the effect size.

Results

Five randomized controlled trials were included to evaluate body weight change, four trials to assess body mass index (BMI), and three trials to assess waist circumference were included. Results showed that the mean body weight loss on SGLT2 inhibitors in obese patients without diabetes was −1.62 kg (95% CI, −2.38 to −0.85 kg) when compared with placebo. Treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors was also associated with a greater reduction in BMI than placebo (weighted mean difference, −0.47 kg/m²; 95% CI, −0.62 to −0.31 kg/m²). The mean reduction in waist circumference with SGLT2 inhibitors versus placebo was 1.29 cm (95% CI, −2.62 to 0.04 cm), which was not statistically significant. There were no significant changes in fat mass, blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol with SGLT2 inhibitor treatment.

Conclusion

A meta-analysis demonstrated that although the weight lowering effect was mild, SGLT2 inhibitors significantly reduced body weight in obese patients without diabetes.

Efficacy and Safety of Dapagliflozin by Baseline Glycemic Status: A Prespecified Analysis From the DAPA-CKD Trial

OBJECTIVE

The Dapagliflozin and Prevention of Adverse outcomes in Chronic Kidney Disease (DAPA-CKD) study demonstrated risk reduction for kidney and cardiovascular outcomes with dapagliflozin versus placebo in participants with chronic kidney disease (CKD) with and without diabetes. We compared outcomes according to baseline glycemic status.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We enrolled participants with CKD, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 25-75 mL/min/1.73 m², and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio 200-5,000 mg/g. The primary composite end point was sustained eGFR decline ≥50%, end-stage kidney disease, or kidney or cardiovascular death.

RESULTS

Of 4,304 participants, 738 had normoglycemia, 660 had prediabetes, and 2,906 had type 2 diabetes. The effect of dapagliflozin on the primary outcome was consistent (P for interaction = 0.19) in normoglycemia (hazard ratio [HR] 0.62 [95% CI 0.39, 1.01]), prediabetes (HR 0.37 [0.21, 0.66]), and type 2 diabetes (HR 0.64 [0.52, 0.79]). We found no evidence for effect modification on any outcome. Adverse events were similar, with no major hypoglycemia or ketoacidosis in participants with normoglycemia or prediabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Dapagliflozin safely reduced kidney and cardiovascular events independent of baseline glycemic status.

Discordance Between Glucose Levels Measured in Interstitial Fluid vs in Venous Plasma After Oral Glucose Administration: A Post-Hoc Analysis From the Randomised Controlled PRE-D Trial

AIMS

The oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is together with haemoglobin A_1c (HbA_1c) gold standard for diagnosing prediabetes and diabetes. The objective of this study was to assess the concordance between glucose values obtained from venous plasma versus interstitial fluid after oral glucose administration in 120 individuals with prediabetes and overweight/obesity.

METHODS

120 adults with prediabetes defined by HbA_1c 39-47 mmol/mol and overweight or obesity who participated in the randomised controlled PRE-D trial were included in the study. Venous plasma glucose concentrations were measured at 0, 30, 60 and 120 minutes during a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) performed on three different occasions within a 26 weeks period. During the OGTT, the participants wore a CGM device (IPro2, Medtronic), which assessed glucose concentrations every five minutes.

RESULTS

A total of 306 OGTTs with simultaneous CGM measurements were obtained. Except in fasting, the CGM glucose values were below the OGTT values throughout the OGTT period with mean (SD) differences of 0.2 (0.7) mmol/L at time 0 min, -1.1 (1.3) at 30 min, -1.4 (1.8) at 60 min, and -0.5 (1.1) at 120 min). For measurements at 0 and 120 min, there was a proportional bias with an increasing mean difference between CGM and OGTT values with increasing mean of the two measurements.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to poor agreement between the OGTT and CGM with wide 95% limits of agreement and proportional bias at 0 and 120 min, the potential for assessing glucose tolerance in prediabetes using CGM is questionable.

Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter-2 Inhibitors in Non-Diabetic Adults With Overweight or Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose-cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have proven to be effective in improving glycemic control and lowering body weight in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, the efficacy and safety on weight loss in adults with overweight or obesity but not diabetes remain unclear. In this article, we aimed to identify the efficacy and safety of SGLT2 inhibitors in adults with overweight or obesity but not diabetes in randomized controlled studies (RCTs).

METHODS

We searched for RCTs concerning SGLT2 inhibitors in adults with overweight or obesity but not diabetes in Medline (Ovid SP), Embase (Ovid SP), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Ovid SP), and ClinicalTrials.gov up to February 2021. The primary outcomes were changes in body weight and body mass index (BMI). Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was used to test the reliability of the primary outcomes. We analyzed the data using Review Manager 5.3 and pooled data to calculate the mean differences (MDs) or the relative risk (RR). We assessed the evidence quality of evidence of outcomes according to GRADE.

RESULTS

Six randomized controlled trials involving 872 individuals were included in the meta-analysis. Compared to the placebo group, the SGLT2 inhibitors group had statistically significant reductions in absolute changes in body weight (MD: -1.42 kg, 95% CI: -1.70 to -1.14; P<0.00001) and BMI (MD: -0.47 kg/m2, 95% CI: -0.63 to -0.31; P<0.00001) in SGLT2 inhibitors group, as indicated by TSA. However, no significant benefits were observed in the SGLT2 inhibitors group in terms of waist circumference (MD: -1.34 cm, 95%CI: -2.75 to 0.07; Z=1.86, P=0.06) compared with the placebo group. The GRADE profiles indicated very low-quality evidence for body weight change and low-quality evidence for BMI change. SGLT2 inhibitors were generally safe and well tolerated.

CONCLUSION

SGLT2 inhibitors could be used in selected adults with overweight and obesity but not diabetes if they are at low risk of genital infection and urinary infection. Further studies are warranted to confirm the efficacy and safety of SGLT2 inhibitors in adults with overweight or obesity but not diabetes for long-term weight management.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

[https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/#loginpage], identifier [PROSPERO, CRD42021252931].

Timing and Frequency of Daily Energy Intake in Adults with Prediabetes and Overweight or Obesity and Their Associations with Body Fat

Knowledge on how energy intake and macronutrients are distributed during the day and the role of daily eating patterns in body composition among adults with overweight/obesity and prediabetes is lacking. Therefore, we evaluated the diurnal dietary intake and studied the associations of daily eating patterns with body fat percentage. A total of 119 adults with prediabetes were included (mean (SD) HbA_1c 41 (2.3) mmol/mol, BMI 31.5 (5.0) kg/m², age 57.8 (9.3) years, 44% men). Information on dietary intake was obtained from self-reported food records for three consecutive days. All foods and beverages (except water) were registered with information on time of ingestion. Body fat was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. A total of 60.5% of the participants reported a daily eating window of 12 or more hours/day, and almost half of the daily total energy intake was reported in the evening. In analyses adjusted for age, gender, and total daily energy intake, having the first daily energy intake one hour later was associated with slightly higher body fat percentage (0.64% per hour, 95% CI: 0.28; 1.01; p < 0.001), whereas higher meal frequency was associated with slightly lower body fat percentage (0.49% per extra daily meal, 95% CI: −0.81; −0.18; p = 0.002). Prospective studies are warranted to address the clinical implications of daily eating patterns on body fat and cardiometabolic health.