Closed-loop for type 1 diabetes - an introduction and appraisal for the generalist

Glucose-Operated Widget (GLOW) for Closed-Loop Optogenetic Glycemic Control

Closed-loop control systems for precise control of therapeutic gene expression are promising candidates for personalized treatment of chronic ailments such as diabetes. Pancreatic iβ-cells are engineered with blue-light-inducible melanopsin to drive rapid insulin release by vesicular secretion from intracellular stores. In this work, a glucose-operated widget (GLOW) is designed as a component of a closed-loop control system for diabetes treatment by employing a probe that emits blue fluorescence in a glucose-concentration-dependent manner as a real-time glucose sensor to precisely control insulin release from these iβ-cells. As proof-of-concept of the complete control system, the probe is encapsulated together with iβ-cells in alginate-poly-(L-lysine) hydrogel-microbeads(400 µm in diameter and containing about 500 cells) called GLOWiβ (GLOW with iβ-cells), are subcutaneously implanted into type-1-diabetic (T1D) mice. Illumination by UV-A light at 390 nm results in glucose-concentration-dependent blue-light emission from the probe at 445 nm that in turn induces glucose-concentration-dependent insulin release from the iβ-cells in a fully reversible manner. Activation of the injected GLOWiβ at 390 nm for 15 min effectively restores normoglycemia within 60-120 min in a closed-loop manner in these diabetic mice. The system is robust, as normoglycemia is well maintained by daily activation for at least 7 days.

The Role of Ultra-Rapid-Acting Insulin Analogs in Diabetes: An Expert Consensus

Ultra-rapid-acting insulin analogs (URAA) are a further development and refinement of rapid-acting insulin analogs. Because of their adapted formulation, URAA provide an even faster pharmacokinetics and thus an accelerated onset of insulin action than conventional rapid-acting insulin analogs, allowing for a more physiologic delivery of exogenously applied insulin. Clinical trials have confirmed the superiority of URAA in controlling postprandial glucose excursions, with a safety profile that is comparable to the rapid-acting insulins. Consequently, many individuals with diabetes mellitus may benefit from URAA in terms of prandial glycemic control. Unfortunately, there are only few available recommendations from authoritative sources for use of URAA in clinical practice. Therefore, this expert consensus report aims to define populations of people with diabetes mellitus for whom URAA may be beneficial and to provide health care professionals with concrete, practical recommendations on how best to use URAA in this context.

The Artificial Pancreas and Type 1 Diabetes

Diabetes technologies represent a paradigm shift in type 1 diabetes care. Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGM) improve glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, enhance time in optimal glycemic range, limit severe hypoglycemia, and reduce diabetes distress. The artificial pancreas or closed-loop system connects these devices via a control algorithm programmed to maintain target glucose, partially relieving the person living with diabetes of this constant responsibility. Automating insulin delivery reduces the input required from those wearing the device, leading to better physiological and psychosocial outcomes. Hybrid closed-loop therapy systems, requiring user-initiated prandial insulin doses, are the most advanced closed-loop systems commercially available. Fully closed-loop systems, requiring no user-initiated insulin boluses, and dual hormone systems have been shown to be safe and efficacious in the research setting. Clinical adoption of closed-loop therapy remains in early stages despite recent technological advances. People living with diabetes, health care professionals, and regulatory agencies continue to navigate the complex path to equitable access. We review the available devices, evidence, clinical implications, and barriers regarding these innovatory technologies.

Parents' experiences of using a hybrid closed-loop system (CamAPS FX) to care for a very young child with type 1 diabetes: Qualitative study

AIMS

To explore parents' experiences of using a hybrid closed-loop system (CamAPS FX) when caring for a very young child (aged 1-7 years) with type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

Interviews with n = 33 parents of 30 children who used the system during a randomised controlled trial. Data analysis used a descriptive thematic approach.

RESULTS

While some parents were initially reticent about handing control to the system, all reported clinical benefits to using the technology, having to do less diabetes-related work and needing less clinical input over time. Parents welcomed opportunities to enhance the system's efficacy (using Ease-off and Boost functions) as required. Parents described how the system's automated glucose control facilitated more normality, including sleeping better, worrying less about their child, and feeling more confident and able to outsource care. Parents also described more normality for the child (alongside better sleep, mood and concentration, and lessened distress) and siblings. Parents liked being able to administer insulin using a smartphone, but suggested refinements to device size and functionality.

CONCLUSIONS

Using a hybrid closed-loop system in very young children can facilitate greater normality and may result in a lessened demand for health professionals' input. Systems may need to be customised for very young children.

Management of Hyperglycemia in Hospitalized Patients Receiving Parenteral Nutrition

Almost half of inpatients on parenteral nutrition experience hyperglycemia, which increases the risk of complications and mortality. The blood glucose target for hospitalized patients on parenteral nutrition is 7.8 to 10.0 mmol/L (140 to 180 mg/dL). For patients with diabetes, the same parenteral nutrition formulae as for patients without diabetes can be used, as long as blood glucose levels can be adequately controlled using insulin. Insulin can be delivered via the subcutaneous or intravenous route or, alternatively, added to parenteral nutrition admixtures. Combining parenteral with enteral and oral nutrition can improve glycemic control in patients with sufficient endogenous insulin stores. Intravenous insulin infusion is the preferred route of insulin delivery in critical care as doses can be rapidly adjusted to altered requirements. For stable patients, insulin can be added directly to the parenteral nutrition bag. If parenteral nutrition is infused continuously over 24 hours, the subcutaneous injection of a long-acting insulin combined with correctional bolus insulin may be adequate. The aim of this review is to give an overview of the management of parenteral nutrition-associated hyperglycemia in inpatients with diabetes.

Ultrarapid Lispro Demonstrates Similar Time in Target Range to Lispro with a Hybrid Closed-Loop System

Background: Automated insulin delivery systems are associated with improved glycemic outcomes for patients with diabetes. Ultrarapid lispro (URLi), which has an accelerated pharmacokinetic profile and shows superior postprandial glucose control compared to lispro (Humalog^®), is a potential candidate for use in these systems. Methods: In this double-blind, crossover trial over two 4-week treatment periods, we evaluated URLi in a hybrid closed-loop system using the Medtronic MiniMed™ 670G system (670G). After a 2-week lead-in on lispro, 42 adults with type 1 diabetes were randomized to 1 of 2 treatment sequences of URLi and lispro delivered via the 670G. Primary endpoint was the percentage of time with glucose values within target range 3.9-10.0 mmol/L (70-180 mg/dL; %TIR). Results: Both treatments achieved %TIR over the 24-h period that was above the 70% minimum recommended by the International Consensus Guidance: URLi, 77.0%; lispro, 77.8%; P = 0.339. %Time <3.0 mmol/L (54 mg/dL) was similar between treatments (URLi, 0.3%; lispro, 0.4%; P = 0.548) and %time <3.9 mmol/L (70 mg/dL) was lower with URLi (1.5%) versus lispro (2.2%); P = 0.009, while %time >10.0 mmol/L (180 mg/dL) was higher with URLi (21.5% [309.4 min] vs. 19.9% [287.2 min]; P = 0.088). Mean sensor glucose was significantly higher with URLi versus lispro with least squares mean difference of 0.17 mmol/L or 3.0 mg/dL (P = 0.011) between treatments. Insulin dose, %time in Auto Mode per week, and pump settings were similar between treatments. No serious adverse events (AEs) (including severe hypoglycemia) or discontinuations occurred, and the incidence of treatment-emergent AEs was similar between treatments. Although the overall incidence and rate of unplanned infusion set changes were similar between treatments, a significantly higher rate of unplanned infusion set changes due to infusion site reactions was seen during URLi treatment compared with lispro: 0.12 versus 0.00 events/30 days (P = 0.063). Conclusions: URLi demonstrated good glycemic control that was comparable to lispro and showed a similar safety profile to lispro with the 670G hybrid closed-loop system. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03760640.

An algorithm mimicking pancreas pulsatile behavior improves artificial pancreas performance

BACKGROUND

Artificial pancreas design using subcutaneous insulin infusion without pre-meal feed-forward boluses often induces an over-response leading to hypoglycemia due to the increase of blood insulin concentration sustained in time. The objective of this work was to create an algorithm for controlling the function of insulin pumps in closed-loop systems to improve blood glucose management in type 1 diabetic patients by mimicking the pulsatile behaviour of the pancreas.

METHODS

A controller tuned in a pulsatile way promotes damped oscillations of blood insulin concentration injected through an insulin pump. We tested it in a simulated environment, using nine 'in silica' subjects. The control algorithm is founded on feedback linearization where through a change of variables, the nonlinear system turns into an equivalent linear system, suitable for implementing through a PID controller. We compared the results obtained 'in silica' with the volume injected by an insulin pump controlled by this algorithm.

RESULTS

The use of this algorithm resulted in a pulsatile control of postprandial blood glucose concentration, avoiding hypoglycaemic episodes. The results obtained 'in silica' were replicated in a real pump 'in vitro'.

CONCLUSIONS

With this proposed linear system, an appropriate control input can be designed. The controller works with a damped pulsatile pattern making the insulin infusion from the pump and blood insulin concentration pulsatile. This operational would improve the performance of an artificial pancreas.

A Digital Health Intervention (SweetGoals) for Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: Protocol for a Factorial Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Many young adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) struggle with the complex daily demands of adherence to their medical regimen and fail to achieve target range glycemic control. Few interventions, however, have been developed specifically for this age group.

OBJECTIVE

In this randomized trial, we will provide a mobile app (SweetGoals) to all participants as a "core" intervention. The app prompts participants to upload data from their diabetes devices weekly to a device-agnostic uploader (Glooko), automatically retrieves uploaded data, assesses daily and weekly self-management goals, and generates feedback messages about goal attainment. Further, the trial will test two unique intervention components: (1) incentives to promote consistent daily adherence to goals, and (2) web health coaching to teach effective problem solving focused on personalized barriers to self-management. We will use a novel digital direct-to-patient recruitment method and intervention delivery model that transcends the clinic.

METHODS

A 2x2 factorial randomized trial will be conducted with 300 young adults ages 19-25 with type 1 diabetes and (Hb)A_1c ≥ 8.0%. All participants will receive the SweetGoals app that tracks and provides feedback about two adherence targets: (a) daily glucose monitoring; and (b) mealtime behaviors. Participants will be randomized to the factorial combination of incentives and health coaching. The intervention will last 6 months. The primary outcome will be reduction in A_1c. Secondary outcomes include self-regulation mechanisms in longitudinal mediation models and engagement metrics as a predictor of outcomes. Participants will complete 6- and 12-month follow-up assessments. We hypothesize greater sustained A_1c improvements in participants who receive coaching and who receive incentives compared to those who do not receive those components.

RESULTS

Data collection is expected to be complete by February 2025. Analyses of primary and secondary outcomes are expected by December 2025.

CONCLUSIONS

Successful completion of these aims will support dissemination and effectiveness studies of this intervention that seeks to improve glycemic control in this high-risk and understudied population of young adults with T1D.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04646473; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04646473.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/27109.

Practical implementation of automated closed-loop insulin delivery: A French position statement

Automated closed-loop (CL) insulin therapy has come of age. This major technological advance is expected to significantly improve the quality of care for adults, adolescents and children with type 1 diabetes. To improve access to this innovation for both patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs), and to promote adherence to its requirements in terms of safety, regulations, ethics and practice, the French Diabetes Society (SFD) brought together a French Working Group of experts to discuss the current practical consensus. The result is the present statement describing the indications for CL therapy with emphasis on the idea that treatment expectations must be clearly defined in advance. Specifications for expert care centres in charge of initiating the treatment were also proposed. Great importance was also attached to the crucial place of high-quality training for patients and healthcare professionals. Long-term follow-up should collect not only metabolic and clinical results, but also indicators related to psychosocial and human factors. Overall, this national consensus statement aims to promote the introduction of marketed CL devices into standard clinical practice.

Proportion of time spent in blood glucose range 70 to 140 mg/dL is associated with increased survival in patients admitted to ICU after cardiac arrest: A multicenter observational study

The benefit of any specific target range of blood glucose (BG) for post-cardiac arrest (PCA) care remains unknown.We conducted a multicenter retrospective study of prospectively collected data of all cardiac arrest patients admitted to the ICUs between 2014 and 2015. The main exposure was BG metrics during the first 24 hours, including time-weighted mean (TWM) BG, mean BG, admission BG and proportion of time spent in 4 BG ranges (<= 70 mg/dL, 70-140 mg/dL, 140-180 mg/dL and > 180 mg/dL). The primary outcome was hospital mortality. Multivariable logistic regression, Cox proportion hazard models and generalized estimating equation (GEE) models were built to evaluate the association between the different kinds of BG and hospital mortality.2,028 PCA patients from 144 ICUs were included. 14,118 BG measurements during the first 24 hours were extracted. According to TWM-BG, 9 (0%) were classified into the <= 70 mg/dL range, 693 (34%) into the 70 to 140 mg/dL range, 603 (30%) into the 140 to 180 mg/dL range, and 723 (36%) into the > 180 mg/dL range. Compared with BG 70 to 140 mg/dL range, BG 140 to 180 mg/dL range and > 180 mg/dL range were associated with higher hospital mortality probability. Proportion of time spent in the 70 to 140 mg/dL range was associated with good outcome (odds ratio 0.984, CI [0.970, 0.998], P = .022, for per 5% increase in time), and > 180 mg/dL range with poor outcome (odds ratio 1.019, CI [1.009, 1.028], P< .001, for per 5% increase in time). Results of the 3 kinds of statistical models were consistent.The proportion of time spent in BG range 70 to 140 mg/dL is strongly associated with increased hospital survival in PCA patients. Hyperglycemia (> 180 mg/dL) is common in PCA patients and is associated with increased hospital mortality.

Neuromodulation of metabolic functions: from pharmaceuticals to bioelectronics to biocircuits

Neuromodulation of central and peripheral neural circuitry brings together neurobiologists and neural engineers to develop advanced neural interfaces to decode and recapitulate the information encoded in the nervous system. Dysfunctional neuronal networks contribute not only to the pathophysiology of neurological diseases, but also to numerous metabolic disorders. Many regions of the central nervous system (CNS), especially within the hypothalamus, regulate metabolism. Recent evidence has linked obesity and diabetes to hyperactive or dysregulated autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity. Neural regulation of metabolic functions provides access to control pathology through neuromodulation. Metabolism is defined as cellular events that involve catabolic and/or anabolic processes, including control of systemic metabolic functions, as well as cellular signaling pathways, such as cytokine release by immune cells. Therefore, neuromodulation to control metabolic functions can be used to target metabolic diseases, such as diabetes and chronic inflammatory diseases. Better understanding of neurometabolic circuitry will allow for targeted stimulation to modulate metabolic functions. Within the broad category of metabolic functions, cellular signaling, including the production and release of cytokines and other immunological processes, is regulated by both the CNS and ANS. Neural innervations of metabolic (e.g. pancreas) and immunologic (e.g. spleen) organs have been understood for over a century, however, it is only now becoming possible to decode the neuronal information to enable exogenous controls of these systems. Future interventions taking advantage of this progress will enable scientists, engineering and medical doctors to more effectively treat metabolic diseases.

Management of Glucose Control in Noncritically Ill, Hospitalized Patients Receiving Parenteral and/or Enteral Nutrition: A Systematic Review

Hyperglycemia is a common occurrence in hospitalized patients receiving parenteral and/or enteral nutrition. Although there are several approaches to manage hyperglycemia, there is no consensus on the best practice. We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, and ClinicalTrials.gov to identify records (published or registered between April 1999 and April 2019) investigating strategies to manage glucose control in adults receiving parenteral and/or enteral nutrition whilst hospitalized in noncritical care units. A total of 15 completed studies comprising 1170 patients were identified, of which 11 were clinical trials and four observational studies. Diabetes management strategies entailed adaptations of nutritional regimens in four studies, while the remainder assessed different insulin regimens and administration routes. Diabetes-specific nutritional regimens that reduced glycemic excursions, as well as algorithm-driven insulin delivery approaches that allowed for flexible glucose-responsive insulin dosing, were both effective in improving glycemic control. However, the assessed studies were, in general, of limited quality, and we see a clear need for future rigorous studies to establish standards of care for patients with hyperglycemia receiving nutrition support.

Fully closed-loop insulin delivery improves glucose control of inpatients with type 2 diabetes receiving hemodialysis

Inpatient diabetes management of those on hemodialysis poses a major challenge. In a post hoc analysis of a randomized controlled clinical trial, we compared the efficacy of fully automated closed-loop insulin delivery vs. usual care in patients undergoing hemodialysis while in hospital. Compared to control patients receiving conventional subcutaneous insulin therapy, those patients receiving closed-loop insulin delivery significantly increased the proportion of time when a continuous glucose monitor was in the target range of 5.6-10.0 mmol/l by 37.6 percent without increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. Thus, closed-loop insulin delivery offers a novel way to achieve effective and safe glucose control in this vulnerable patient population.

Participants' Experiences of, and Views About, Daytime Use of a Day-and-Night Hybrid Closed-Loop System in Real Life Settings: Longitudinal Qualitative Study

OBJECTIVE

To explore individuals' experiences of daytime use of a day-and-night hybrid closed-loop system, their information and support needs, and their views about how future systems could be improved.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Twenty-four adults, adolescents, and parents were interviewed before using a hybrid day-and-night closed-loop system and 3 months later, data were analyzed thematically.

RESULTS

Participants praised the closed loop's ability to respond to high and low blood glucose in ways which extended beyond their own capabilities and to act as a safety net and mop up errors, such as when a mealtime bolus was forgotten or unplanned activity was undertaken. Participants also described feeling less burdened by diabetes as a consequence and more able to lead flexible, spontaneous lives. Contrary to their initial expectations, and after trust in the system had been established, most individuals wanted opportunities to collaborate with the closed loop to optimize its effectiveness. Such individuals expressed a need to communicate information, such as when routines changed or to indicate different intensities of physical activity. While individuals valued frequent contact with staff in the initial month of use, most felt that their long-term support needs would be no greater than when using an insulin pump.

CONCLUSIONS

While participants reported substantial benefits to using the closed loop during the day, they also identified ways in which the technology could be refined and education and training tailored to optimize effective use. Our findings suggest that mainstreaming this technology will not necessarily lead to increased demands on clinical staff.

Closed-Loop Insulin Delivery for Glycemic Control in Noncritical Care

BACKGROUND

In patients with diabetes, hospitalization can complicate the achievement of recommended glycemic targets. There is increasing evidence that a closed-loop delivery system (artificial pancreas) can improve glucose control in patients with type 1 diabetes. We wanted to investigate whether a closed-loop system could also improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes who were receiving noncritical care.

METHODS

In this randomized, open-label trial conducted on general wards in two tertiary hospitals located in the United Kingdom and Switzerland, we assigned 136 adults with type 2 diabetes who required subcutaneous insulin therapy to receive either closed-loop insulin delivery (70 patients) or conventional subcutaneous insulin therapy, according to local clinical practice (66 patients). The primary end point was the percentage of time that the sensor glucose measurement was within the target range of 100 to 180 mg per deciliter (5.6 to 10.0 mmol per liter) for up to 15 days or until hospital discharge.

RESULTS

The mean (±SD) percentage of time that the sensor glucose measurement was in the target range was 65.8±16.8% in the closed-loop group and 41.5±16.9% in the control group, a difference of 24.3±2.9 percentage points (95% confidence interval [CI], 18.6 to 30.0; P<0.001); values above the target range were found in 23.6±16.6% and 49.5±22.8% of the patients, respectively, a difference of 25.9±3.4 percentage points (95% CI, 19.2 to 32.7; P<0.001). The mean glucose level was 154 mg per deciliter (8.5 mmol per liter) in the closed-loop group and 188 mg per deciliter (10.4 mmol per liter) in the control group (P<0.001). There was no significant between-group difference in the duration of hypoglycemia (as defined by a sensor glucose measurement of <54 mg per deciliter; P=0.80) or in the amount of insulin that was delivered (median dose, 44.4 U and 40.2 U, respectively; P=0.50). No episode of severe hypoglycemia or clinically significant hyperglycemia with ketonemia occurred in either trial group.

CONCLUSIONS

Among inpatients with type 2 diabetes receiving noncritical care, the use of an automated, closed-loop insulin-delivery system resulted in significantly better glycemic control than conventional subcutaneous insulin therapy, without a higher risk of hypoglycemia. (Funded by Diabetes UK and others; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01774565 .).

Closed-loop insulin delivery: current status of diabetes technologies and future prospects

INTRODUCTION

Type 1 diabetes is characterised by destruction of pancreatic beta cells, leading to insulin deficiency and hyperglycaemia. The mainstay of treatment remains lifelong insulin therapy as a sustainable cure has as yet proven elusive. The burden of daily management of type 1 diabetes has contributed to suboptimal outcomes for people living with the condition. Innovative technological approaches have been shown to improve glycaemic and patient-related outcomes.

AREAS COVERED

We discuss recent advances in technologies in type 1 diabetes including closed-loop systems, also known as the 'artificial pancreas. Its various components, technical aspects and limitations are reviewed. We also discuss its advent into clinical practice, and other systems in development. Evidence from clinical studies are summarised.

EXPERT COMMENTARY

The recent approval of a hybrid closed-loop system for clinical use highlights the significant progress made in this field. Results from clinical studies have shown safety and glycaemic benefit, however challenges remain around improving performance and acceptability. More data is required to establish long-term clinical efficacy and cost-effectiveness, to fulfil the expectations of people with type 1 diabetes.

Paediatric type 1 diabetes 2018: Clinical and research insights

The management of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes continues to progress as clinical and technological innovations enter into practice. Variability in glucose readings can present a significant challenge for care providers, patients and families alike and recent research demonstrates that insulin selection and site-related lipohypertrophy can significantly influence blood glucose levels. New technology aims to improve both glycemic control and quality of life. New insulin analogues have been developed and insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems continue to evolve toward a fully closed-loop system. While such systems are not yet currently available, incremental features such as 'low glucose suspend' are offered. As well, glucose sensors are now available that can be used for insulin dosing while reducing the number of capillary blood sugar checks. This review aims to provide the clinician with an overview of some of these latest aspects of diabetes care for children and adolescents.

Bridging technology and clinical practice: innovating inpatient hyperglycaemia management in non-critical care settings

Emerging evidence shows that suboptimal glycaemic control is associated with increased morbidity and length of stay in hospital. Various guidelines for safe and effective inpatient glycaemic control in the non-critical care setting have been published. In spite of this, implementation in practice remains limited because of the increasing number of people with diabetes admitted to hospital and staff work burden. The use of technology in the outpatient setting has led to improved glycaemic outcomes and quality of life for people with diabetes. There remains an unmet need for technology utilisation in inpatient hyperglycaemia management in the non-critical care setting. Novel technologies have the potential to provide benefits in diabetes care in hospital by improving efficacy, safety and efficiency. Rapid analysis of glucose measurements by point-of-care devices help facilitate clinical decision-making and therapy adjustment in the hospital setting. Glucose treatment data integration with computerized glucose management systems underpins the effective use of decision support systems and may streamline clinical staff workflow. Continuous glucose monitoring and automation of insulin delivery through closed-loop systems may provide a safe and efficacious tool for hospital staff to manage inpatient hyperglycaemia whilst reducing staff workload. This review summarizes the evidence with regard to technological methods to manage inpatient glycaemic control, their limitations and the future outlook, as well as potential strategies by healthcare organizations such as the National Health Service to mediate the adoption, procurement and use of diabetes technologies in the hospital setting.

Psychosocial impacts of hybrid closed-loop systems in the management of diabetes: a review

There is a pressing need for new treatment regimens that enable improved glycaemic control and reduced diabetes self-management burdens. Closed-loop, or artificial pancreas, systems represent one of the most promising avenues in this regard. Closed-loop systems connect wearable continuous glucose monitor (CGM) sensors to smartphone- or tablet-mounted algorithms that process and model CGM data to deliver precise and frequently updated doses of fast-acting insulin (and glucagon in dual-hormone systems) to users via wearable pumps. Recent studies have demonstrated that closed-loop systems offer significant benefit in terms of improved glycaemic control. However, less attention has been paid to the psychosocial impact on users of closed-loop systems. This article reviews recent research on psychosocial aspects of closed-loop usage in light of preceding research on user experience of currently available technologies such as insulin pumps and CGM sensors. The small, but growing body of research in this field reports generally positive user experience and a number of experienced benefits including: reassurance and reduced anxiety, improved sleep and confidence, and 'time off' from diabetes demands. However, these benefits are counterbalanced by important challenges, ranging from variable levels of trust to concerns about physical bulk, technical glitches and difficulties incorporating closed-loop systems into everyday life. Future research should explore psychosocial aspects of closed-loop usage in more diverse groups and with regard to clinicians, as well as users, to ensure that the clinical benefits of closed-loop systems are realized at scale in routine medical care.

Bolusing frequency and amount impacts glucose control during hybrid closed-loop

AIM

To compare bolus insulin delivery patterns during closed-loop home studies in adults with suboptimally [HbA1c 58-86 mmol/mol (7.5%-10%)] and well-controlled [58 mmol/mol (< 7.5%)] Type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of daytime and night-time insulin delivery during home use of closed-loop over 4 weeks. Daytime and night-time controller effort, defined as amount of insulin delivered by closed-loop relative to usual basal insulin delivery, and daytime bolus effort, defined as total bolus insulin delivery relative to total daytime insulin delivery were compared between both cohorts. Correlation analysis was performed between individual bolus behaviour (bolus effort and frequency) and daytime controller efforts, and proportion of time spent within and below sensor glucose target range.

RESULTS

Individuals with suboptimally controlled Type 1 diabetes had significantly lower bolus effort (P = 0.038) and daily bolus frequency (P < 0.001) compared with those with well-controlled diabetes. Controller effort during both daytime (P = 0.007) and night-time (P = 0.005) were significantly higher for those with suboptimally controlled Type 1 diabetes. Time when glucose was within the target range (3.9-10.0 mmol/L) during daytime correlated positively with bolus effort (r = 0.37, P = 0.016) and bolus frequency (r = 0.33, P = 0.037). Time when glucose was below the target range during daytime was comparable in both groups (P = 0.36), and did not correlate significantly with bolus effort (r = 0.28, P = 0.066) or bolus frequency (r = -0.21, P = 0.19).

CONCLUSION

More frequent bolusing and higher proportion of insulin delivered as bolus during hybrid closed-loop use correlated positively with time glucose was in target range. This emphasises the need for user input and educational support to benefit from this novel therapeutic modality.

Pharmacotherapy options for pediatric diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are frequent conditions during childhood and adolescence. The present review offers an update on current available treatment strategies for T1D and T2D approved for use in children and adolescents.

RECENT FINDINGS

Insulin remains the main and essential therapeutic strategy in youth with T1D. A second generation of insulin analogues is being evaluated and could help in improving glycemic control. Over the last decades advances in technology have allowed the implementation of insulin pump therapy and continuous glucose monitoring, and are now leading the way towards the development of an artificial pancreas or closed loop system.Treatment of T2D is based on lifestyle interventions and metformin as the first-line drug to be used. Little evidence is available for other oral hypoglycemic drugs, currently used in adults.

SUMMARY

Although much progress has been made in the field of diabetes management, there are still several unmet goals. One of the main issues is to develop a system allowing more physiological insulin coverage. For both T1D and T2D, there is a strong need of new drugs to be used alone or in combination, mainly in patients struggling to achieve good glycemic control.